As the last warm vestiges of sunlight disappears into the shadowed darkness of the evening, a natural myriad of colors filter through the glass ceiling to bathe the brazier-heated gardens and the silver and teal-themed silk cloths draped upon the tables. A trio of accomplished musicians with string instruments invokes a lively melody to fill the air. The attentive Grotto staff is ever present, attired in matching designs and alert to the needs of those around them. "Welcome, welcome. Please enter. There's tables for sitting, swings and areas for exploring, or feel free to stand. The opening speech and sampling will begin shortly." A silk-tied coffee bean sachet and a single commemorative coin are provided to all guests who enter. The first for clearing the senses and the second for the whimsical purpose of making a wish in the bubbling fountain.

Acacia hasn't opted to stand near the front, instead preferring the shadows when final adjustments are made to the silken napkins neatly folded upon the tables, or the glasses nearby. The Grotto servers seem far more outfitted and educated to do the bulk of the welcoming. The music continues to play, ensuring there's never wholly silence and the temporary illusion of a springtime world apart remains intact. She stalks just behind Silas, employing a single pat to the back of his shoulder and then venturing to the side in order to watch those entering. A smile is donned afterward, before it might be forgotten.

Tikva has joined the Swinging seats amongst roses.

Merek has taken his time to reverse his aketon into a black leather vest upon his silk doublet, which is fitted above his leather pants. His black boots take him into the Gardens of the Grotto, while his black steel blade has been peace-bonded for the event. He makes his way to one of the couches, while Meeka slides off into the shadows of the grotto to observe comings and goings, listening to the people, and generally acting as she was intended.

After the short stroll through the humid and steaming Grotto proper, Ford is feeling so very refreshed, and lingering chill from the outside winter melted away. Now in the gardens, his hands clasp together in front of himself, the tiniest smile on his face as if he's in on a joke.

Click-click go Deva's heels across the marble of the garden path, with careful strides as she arrives on Niccolo's arm. "I haven't been here yet," she admits, gaze averted toward the ceiling with a reserved smile on her lips. "Have you?" That is asked several long, distracted beats later. With so much to look at, she seems to be having difficulty on focusing on any one thing. Crimson hair whips around behind her back as her head swerves this way and that, looking to the musicians and then staring too-long at the braziers along the path. Accepting the sachet and coin with a grateful nod of her head, she holds the former up high between pinched fingers to dangle in the air.

Silas is present, early to the event as befitting to the hosts involved. He is dressed for the occasion, clad in an elegant crimson shirt with laced sleeves, black silk breeches and even a dollop of cologne. When he feels the pat on his shoulder he turns to regard Acacia with a warm smile, then turns his contemplative gaze back to the guests now entering. He offers nods in greeting, as bowing to each would get quite tiring, and moves to where he could capture the most attention.

Once Tikva arrives, she drifts through the gardens with bright and animated interest. She seems wholly excited by the swing seats, pushing off from the ground and gliding in amidst the roses with the wide smile of the easily entertained. Her belegginged legs swing with the shifting motion. She watches others as they filter in with ready curiosity.

Felix arrives with a bit more bounce in his step than he's had the past several days. While he still looks a little on the tired side, he's got some color back in his cheeks. The smith-turned-armsman is wearing a crimson cotton shirt, tanned leather breeches, and black leather boots. His hair is tied back this evening so that it's kept out of his face and he's nicely cleaned up as he has the past couple of occasions. He stands in the back for now as well, minding his stature so he's not blocking anyone's view.

Franco's booted feet manage to find their way into the Grotto, though the bit of snow on them shows it might have taken him a while. Still dressed in simple leathers, the blonde haired Gilden all the same manages to keep a relaxed posture as he settles into the garden. Hands accept the proferred sachet and coin with a lopsided smile, and the man glances to the others about, eyes drawing towards Silas as the man moves more center-stage. Franco keeps moving regardless, the sachet getting a lazy dangle between a few fingers, swinging it idly as he examines the coin during a slow walk towards the fountain itself, looking it over, then the coin, seeming to consider the opportunity.

Esoka murmurs a polite, if slightly stiff, "Thank you" to the servant who hands her the sachet and coin upon entering. The former she sniffs. The latter she holds in her palm, rolling it idly between her fingers, and just generally ponders. She does not make a wish right away. She follows not far behind Tikva to the swing seats. Eyeing the swing with the same narrowed eyes that she had directed on her coin, though the lady's swinging gets a grin.

"There's so many flowers, we didn't want it to shadow over the tastes. There's actually thirteen different Houses or Families that submitted, so we're quite pleased with it all. I hope you both are well?" Acacia's meandering pathway had taken her through the tables, allowing her to present a bow towards both Deva and Niccolo in the process. One of the commemorative coins is dextrously flicked and toyed with in one hand, but her smile broadens more genuinely when she spies Tikva. "You look fantastic, Lady Tikva. I might have to shamelessly ask someone to join you on that swing." After a quick look about the area, she seems to spot Ford - an appraising look given, before she notes with a gesture in his general direction, "Have you met the Marquis Kennex?" More conspiratorially, she murmurs, "I'd be rather impressed if you could manage to get him to swing. I'm kind of convinced that every supreme looking man should swing among roses at least once for the fun of it."

Merek takes a moment to tap his foot thrice, and brush his hair out of his face, then he looks to the people coming in, and smiles. He notices Silas, and stands up, to salute to his Lord Commander. Then he lowers his hand, inclining to others, before returning to his seat at a couch before the fountain. Meanwhile Meeka makes her rounds around, chatting up one or two patrons idly, while she listens to conversations.

Tikva grins sunnily at Esoka, and slows the swing to a halt by dragging her leather shod feet over the ground. "Thanks!" she says with an easy laugh, looking up at Acacia, too, with her teeth set against the curve of her lower lip. "I've had the honor and pleasure of meeting the Marquis Kennex, yes, though I don't know how persuasive he'd find me."

"Once," Niccolo admits to Deva as they walk together into the garden. He also takes a few moments to look around the area. He accepts the sachet and coin both and inclines his head to the one providing it. "You like the braziers," he asks the Redrain princess, his features softening for some reason. Acacia's arrival has the archduke dipping his head to his protege. "Acacia," he greets her, with a familiarity that some might find unusual, but the man handles as well as any other polite greeting. "We'll well. You and Lord Commander Silas did very well with this," he says, with another look around. He lets Acacia move on to greet other guests, and turns to Deva, speaking quietly to her. Seeing Franco, the archduke lifts a hand to wave at the other man.

Ford heard the words 'Marquis Kennex' Why.. that's me! He turns in every which direction looking for the culprit just in time to hear himself called 'a supreme looking man'. A tilted head and smirk are adorned as he approaches Acacia, then turning his eyes towards Tikva, "Hit me with your best shot, Lady Tikva. I'm not incapable of being swayed."

"A thousand silver wager if both you and the Dame here -- who I'm afraid I haven't met yet -- can manage to get both the Marquis Kennex and Master Felix swinging before the night is out," Acacia boldly claims with a slashed grin spared to both Esoka and Tikva, before she begins to step away from them. She winks once at Ford in the process. A hand is reached out to greet Franco with an attempted squeeze upon the bicep and a warmer smile, "Thanks for coming, love. Mingle. Make friends. We'll be doing the rounds soon." Her dark eyes revolve back towards Silas thoughtfully.

Silas quirks a smile in Merek's direction when the man stands and salutes him. "Just relax, Merek. We're not on duty," he retorts, even though he looks appreciative at the gesture.

    The Lord Commander clears his throat, looking a -mite- nervous, and steps forward. He projects his voice so it is clearly heard - but less commanding and forceful than one would expect from a military leader and much more suited to an succinct orator.

        "Greetings, lord and ladies, and good evening. To start, I would like to thank my co-hosts Mistress Acacia Culler and Master Saedrus Whisper, for helping bring this occasion to life. Without Mistress Culler's artistic touches, and this wonderfully appointed garden and diligent staff, it would be but a shadow of what it is now. Thank you."

    "Secondly, I extend my thanks to all of you for attending, and to the Houses and families who have submitted a beverage for the contest. This will be a delightful way to share the premier craft brews of various lands with others who may otherwise not get the chance to. I have no doubt it will be a close and very enjoyable contest."

    "Tolamar Brand's corrupted forces will be upon our city walls like a wave breaking upon the shore. We will be fighting for our right to live, to exist. We can't be consumed by our petty differences anymore, we must stand united if we wish to survive."

    "The funds raised here will be used to recruit and equip brave souls willing to face the approaching darkness in defense of their home and loved ones. It will go to buying supplies for their families, who may otherwise be left vulnerable in their absence. There are dark days ahead of us, and I implore you to give them a fighting chance, in exchange for a single day of brightness and levity before the storm. If that is too much to ask of some, then so be it; I will not impugn those who wish to spend their time planning for what is to come, but I ask for understanding..."

    "There is little laughter or joy in war, especially during the winter, and these next few weeks may be our last opportunity to treasure it for some time. I caution against taking it for granted, as I often have, and encourage all of you to make sure it doesn't go to waste.

    "Please, enjoy yourselves, and I sincerely wish you the best. We are stronger united than we are divided."

    "May the drinking begin!"

    And with that, Silas steps back, presumably to let the serving staff get to work.

Tikva checked charm + performance against difficulty 15, resulting in 30, 15 higher than the difficulty.

"Oh. Oh. Okay. Let me try. Just a second." Tikva scrubs her face with both her hands as though to clear it of all other shades of expression. Then she lifts her gaze towards Ford, round-eyed and ingenuous with a puppyish wist in her face. There's a hint of laughter in the spark of her vivid eyes, but otherwise her features are well controlled. "Please, come and join me, my lord. The swings are best enjoyed in company."

Deva spies Tikva's arrival, and waves in a bright fashion across the way toward her fellow redhead. "Hi," she greets with a brighter smile, dipping her head toward the swings. "Thirteen? How-- well, that's quite the number," her eyebrows lift at Acacia, and the woman receives a quick, warm grin before her expression settles. "Doing well-- it looks beautiful, Acacia," she insists with one more look around. At Niccolo's question, she gives him an odd look before laughing, quietly, just once. "Of course I do," she insists with a shake of her head, lightly nudging him in the side with an elbow. His quieter words make her look around with thoughtfully narrowed eyes, one hand pressing to a hip as she surveys the area.

Ford checked willpower + etiquette against difficulty 15, resulting in 11, 4 lower than the difficulty.

"Careful you don't make yourself dizzy, Lady Tikva," Esoka says, but the statement is accompanied by a crooked widening of her smile. She turns to Acacia, offering her an inclination of her head. "I'm called Esoka Greenblood, madam. Well-met. You'll give out coin if a man sits on the swing?" She laughs. Giving Tikva a sort of 'Seriously?' look. Though she does ask, "Which one's this Master Felix person?" Though the announcement comes before there's time for an answer, and her head turns to listen to the welcome.

Thesarin had arrived briefly before the announcement, having been running late, though he did manage at least to find suitable attire for the gathering, making an effort to appear presentable. The Count speaks with a couple of individuals before making his way to the drinks, as it is the puprose of the event.

Ford tilts his head and quirks an eyebrow, regarding both the swing and Tikva, there's a moment of pursed lips before he turns around and waits for her to come back around before dropping himself on the swing and keeping the momentum going, "Very well. You've talked me into it."

Felix turns his attention towards Acacia and gives her a look of disbelief. "I don't know about the Marquis, but that's an easy bet!" he calls out to the woman with a laugh. This is followed by a wave of a large hand as he makes his way further forward. As the announcement comes though, he quiets himself and drops his hand back down to his side to listen. Esoka's question is heard though and he turns to the woman. Lifting his arm again and tall enough it can't be missed, he points to the top of his head. Once he makes eyes contact, the hand is dropped again and he listens.

Franco's attention for the fountain seems to drift slightly, turning after a few distracted moments to instead regard the other people actually in attendance. His eyes draw to the movement of Acacia, which inevitably brings them towards Niccolo and Deva. The man offers an easy smile, and he lifts a hand, returning the wave, along with a lower nod. At the redheads approach, his brows lift, a lazy smirk slipping over his lips at her words. "Mmm. Suppose that's a big part of these. Mingling." He admits, puffing out a breath and then moving towards the Archduke. His steps are arrested however by Silas' words beginning. He turns, and listens to the speech, expression neutral, though he does begin to lift his hands to offer some applauding claps.

1 Redrain novice guards arrives, following Kieran.

Ford has joined the Swinging seats amongst roses.

Tikva's sham at puppy eyes absolutely cracks when Deva greets her; she flashes a wide smile at the other redhead with her hand lifted in a finger-wiggled wave as Deva comes nearer. "Hi!" she says, voice bright. However, Ford has already conceded victory. Double win. She laughs, running moccasins over the ground. "Particularly at an event so ripe with laughter and joy, there's room for a little silliness, I should hope."

Merek looks up to the speech, and lifts a clawed gauntlet in a motion as if he was toasting. He then shifts a bit, and stands up. Looks like he will make some rounds too. Meeka moves around to the opposite side of the Gardens and seems to mill about, one foot placed over her ankle.

Niccolo looks from Deva to their surroundings. "The fountain," he decides and with a gentle tug, aims to lead the princess there. Seeing Franco starting to applaud, the archduke joins him. "We're going to claim a seat, Lord Franco if you would care to join us," he says and turns to Tikva next, dipping his head to her. "Lady Tikva, you're welcome to join us as well," he adds and then starts towards the table by the fountain. Seeing Ford by the swings, the archduke chuckles once and dips his head to the man in recognition.

Niccolo has joined the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

There's something temporary solemn about the servers who had stilled at the Lord Commander's speech, stopping their duties in order to applaud for the man and the efforts he speaks of. The musicians allow a sufficient pause before they begin to strike up something with a bit more energy to coerce the mingling to begin.
    "There will be four rounds of tasting, split into segments so everyone can speak and enjoy them at will. Feel more than free to try to convince others to like your favorites, though who made which one will remain a mystery until the end and we ask you to keep that so for the sake of entertainment!"
    The first arrangement of alcoholic choices starts relatively light, with a trio of crystal samples provided to each of the guests from trays brandished elegantly from Grotto servers. Each pairing is accompanied with tiny apricot blue cheese canapes, a thiny sliced charcuterie arrangement and salty crackers with a creamy camembert topping. Delicate slices of braised pineapple are available as palate cleansers.

[Please look First]

Acacia drops First Sample Selection.

Esoka looks briefly confused when Felix waves at her. But, with the pointing, she eventually puts it together. She holds up an open-palmed hand. It's kind of a wave. And then, approaches him. "Hello. I'm supposed to convince you to sit on the swing. It's very fun." She deadpans it all in a way that isn't exactly high on persuasion. Snorting a chuckle, mostly at herself, after she does it. Eyes flitting to the samplings of alcohol that are being portioned out.

Even while swinging, Ford happily accepts a set of samples for both himself and Tikva, "Which would you like to start with?" He asks curiously.

"I like your bow! We should talk later!" Deva points at her eyes with two fingers, then points at Tikva's face with them in a 'v' shape, and then back to her own face. The amusement on her face is obvious as Tikva's expression gives way. "Franco, good to see you," she lifts her chin in a casual fashion, giving the man a quick smile, too. Gaze focused on Silas and his words, she joins in on the applause without reservation while following Niccolo to the fountain seating.

Deva has joined the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Silas exhales slowly from his place near the fountain. That might have taken more out of him than he intended. A small, sheepish small creeps up at the applause he receives. Thankfully the dreary seriousness doesn't last long and make him feel even more awkward. When the first drinks are brought forward he moves to join a seat, eager to be a participant even if he may not get a vote. It's not every day you get so much fabulous booze.

Silas has joined the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Merek takes a moment to look between the first set of sampling, each one in turn. He reaches to them in turn, a small inhale, then a tiny little sip. Meeka moves to another place with sampling rounds, and tries some, each in turn. She makes a face at one, but the other she nods to. The man who she accompanied, nods a few times, and seems to mull it all over, "Hrm." He finds some water to clear his palette after each taste.

Acacia checked dexterity + small wpn against difficulty 15, resulting in 42, 27 higher than the difficulty.

Acacia similarly applaued when others did, her gaze thoughtful when it turned onto Silas for the duration of his speech. As the servers gather together in order to ensure each and every person has an adequate tasting of the first round, she meanders closer towards Merek, all while looking after Meeka, "She seems quite happy. Have you been here before?" As Thesarin nears the drinks which are being passed around, she turns in order to provide a small bow in greeting and remarks, "... Count Thesarin, I believe? An honor. Have you met Master Black yet? Perhaps you two can share notes?" Her hand nimbly crosses in front of her abdomen, as that coin she's been juggling within her fingers is discreetly flicked towards Silas when he moves to join a seat.

With her arm tucked through the crook of Kieran's the little Whisper that makes up Mailys arrives at his side. As expected of the cuddly Mailys, she leans into him. She likes to touch people. She extracts herself to dip into a curtsy to everyone before her hand returns to Kieran's arm. There is no greeting kiss, as not to interrupt the talks. Upwards at Kieran she glances and beams to him, "Is there any where you would like to sit? I am being terribly selfish and putting you out by asking you to be my date." She doesn't actually sound concerned about 'putting him out' given he agreed.

"It should be abominably rude of me to exert my powers of persuasion on this charming Marquis only to abandon him for you, Your Grace!" Tikva calls across the swing toward Niccolo, her bright eyes crinkling at the corners as she continues to ride the easy momentum of the swing. She gives a big thumbs up to Deva, even so, before turning her gaze to Ford beside her. "Unconscionable, even. Oh-- but we'd better slow down this wild ride or we're going to spill things everywhere." She holds out her hand. "Hmm, cool to warm?" she asks, pointing at the pink wine before she reaches for the crystal sample cup.

Silas checked dexterity against difficulty 15, resulting in 25, 10 higher than the difficulty.

Kieran arrives with Mailys just before the first sample is offered, "Oh, just in time. Shall we sit under the willow?" He asks as he gestures in that direction. He looks to the fee familiar faces he sees and fives them all a dip of his head in greeting.

Franco's applause fall away after a few moments, and his attention drags back to Niccolo and Deva, a slight bow offered at the greeting. "Generous offer, I'll take it." He decides, lips curving into a lazy smile as the Gilden falls into step beside them, moving towards the fountain and couch. "It's good to see you as well, Princess Deva. I imagine you've got a horse in this race? I offered a drink from Caith into the mix. Rather curious to see how it stands up." He admits, raising a free hand to scratch at his stubbled jaw, his head turning to look towards Tikva at her outacll, a quiet chuckle coming from his lips. "Looks like a few people found a way to make it more active."

Kieran has joined the A day bed beneath the willow.

Mailys has joined the A day bed beneath the willow.

Felix brings his own hands together in a round of applause for Silas's speech, but quiets again when the order of things is being explained. Nodding his understanding then, it isn't long before Esoka is addressing him and capturing the attention of his silvery gaze. Blink. "Hello," he returns and then offers a deep chuckle in return. A shrewd look is cast down to the woman then and he speaks up once more. "I suppose I could do that. Although..." he holds up both hands to her in playful defense. "and this is speaking simply as a former shop owner, your pitch could use a /little/ help. What features does this swing have? How many paces do you think you could throw it to kill a man? Very important questions."

Franco has joined the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Silas catches Acacia's movement as he sinks into his chosen seat and his hand quickly goes up to catch the coin before it hits its target. "Not this time," he answers her before peering at the coin now within his palm. "Are these your weapon of choice now?" He inquires lightheartedly. The first sample is acquired and sipped at curiously.

Niccolo studies the first round of drinks, lifting the first glass to study the drink. He takes a sip, wetting his lips as he enjoys the flavor. Setting it down, he reaches for a pineapple slice and takes a bite. He moves on to the next drink, repeating the process and then the next. When he speaks again, it's quietly to those at his table.

"... I could always change to something more-- pointy," Acacia dryly replies towards Silas, a hint of a grin tugging at her mouth regardless. Standing near one of the tables, her fingers pry at the prongs of one of the forks testingly, before she picks it up and ensures its deposited to a server rather than left for someone to use. An extra dip of her head is respectfully provided towards Kieran and Mailys when they pass, as servers provide them both with the coffee-bean sachets and the commemorative coin for making a whimsical wish at the fountain if they so desire.

Mailys beams up at Kieran, "Sounds like a good spot." she agrees. She pauses briefly to assure that a tray of drinks is brought to her and Kieran before parking herself at his side. She eyes the flavors and asks her companion, "Which do you want to start with? The apple ones seems like it would be good."

"I... think we do? Truthfully, my brother wouldn't tell me anything, so I haven't a clue what we submitted," Deva admits with a wry smile for Franco, bare shoulders lifting high and uncertain. "We'll see if I can guess our own northern-- I'm assuming it's whiskey. I'll be disappointed if it's not whiskey," she adds with a sigh too loud and dramatic to be genuine. Her eyes crinkle at the corners as she dips her head toward Franco. "Any hints as to your own submission?" Sipping each, her brows furrow in thought, taking the task at hand very seriously. "I quite like the ginger," she admits, sipping at the pear product once more.

Esoka frowns thoughtfully. Eyes ticking from the swing, back to Felix. "It's very fun," she repeats. "Look how it swings. Back and forth. There isn't a merrier chair in this place." She snorts another chuckle half-way through that, and finally just lets out a proper laugh. Shaking her head. "I'm sorry. The good woman...Mistress Acacia I think she's called? Suggested you might enjoy it. I've no right idea whether you're the sort to enjoy swings or not, so I'm a poor ambassador for it." She takes the first samples as they're being passed out, nosing them.

Merek nods a bit, once he seems to have finished with the first round, and he waits for the next. He motions to Meeka, and she comes to him, and both confer about the wines. There is a small agreed upon nod, before he makes a motion, and the woman moves off.

"Please continue to enjoy these samples and sway those which are your favorites to your peers, friends and strangers. They will soon be exchanged for the second arrangement."

"They're fun, Dame Esoka. That's the point of swings," Tikva calls with a little waggle of the tasting cup she holds.

Merek then turns to look towards Acacia, "I like wine... A lot, and she does too," he admits, with amusement writ on his face. Then he looks to Thesarin, and inclines a small bit, "A pleasure to meet you, Count," he offers with respect, while he smooths out his silk doublet a bit.

Silas inclines his head towards Niccolo when the Archduke addresses him and he nods firmly. "Thank you, Your Grace. I will make myself available, just let me know when." His blue eyes flicker to Acacia now. "Yeah, I think I prefer the coins. Less blood and more monetary value." And in that vein, he pockets the coin and casually moves onto the next sample. "I think I know which drink Prince Edain would prefer..." He muses outloud.

The second arrangement offers three memorable hard liquors, capable to be savored despite the smaller amounts provided. An assortment of smoked oysters, warm smoked-salmon crackers with miniscule capers and a few slivers of a mature aged cheddar are provided. Thin oakcakes and fresh water are offered as palate cleansers. Used glasses are neatly collected as the musicians change their tune to something with a bit more depth.

Acacia drops Second Sample Selection.

"Perhaps you can share some of your expertise in things both bloody and less, or maybe just wine and liquors with Master Black and Count Riven -- if he'll join in?" The tilt of Acacia's head is fractionally angled towards Silas, even when she expresses a small grin and then gestures more openly towards the two men nearby. "Master Black is obviously a man of fine wines and drinks himself and let's not forget that it was your submission that one the first time around. Plus, it seemed like you two knew each other already well, aye?"

Franco settles into the table, and mirrors Niccolo fairly effectively in similarly sipping, pausing, moving on. But his choice of the group is likely obvious, the foam cider being the last one left infront of him as the other two get pushed away. He speaks, an easy smile on his lips as the big man drapes into the chair lazily, words quiet for the group.

Thesarin nods to Acacia in greeting, "I am indeed. I do not believe we have met, my lady?" He then nods to Merek, "To you as well, my lord. I hope things are going well for both of you?" He affords a rare smile in politeness.

More than fashionably late, but, so blithely pleased with herself despite the late enterance - Simone Greenmarch, a study in dark green wool and silk velvet - steps into the Grotto's snowy gardens with a sigh. "So very pretty out there."

Felix takes a glass of the pale amber whiskey for the second round, nosing it briefly before looking to Esoka. "Who doesn't enjoy a swing?" he asks the woman, brows furrowing a touch. He does have a bright, cheery smile on his face, however, and a low chuckle rolls from him at her continued deadpan. "You did fine. I was just having a laugh. While I'm not sure swings need ambassadors so much, I don't think it'll hurt to try. Unless it breaks and I fall and then, yes...I can see it hurting."

The Lord Commander's attention goes to Merek now, when Acacia notes their prior relationship. "Master Merek is my guardsmen. And he is quite familiar with my expertise in using sharp pointy things." To say the least. Poor Merek. "But I won't reject company, and I can tell he may be a bigger wine connoisseur than I am," Silas confesses as he notes how Merek was going about testing the samples.

Niccolo converses with those at his table, looking between the drinks that were already served. When the second batch of drinks is delivered, the archduke rubs his chin and selects the first one, bringing it to his lips. "I like this first one it has a nice starting burn," the man observes moving on to the next drink, then taking a taste of that third one. "This third one is rather good too," he decides and speaks quietly at the table once more.

Simone has joined the Couches before the fountain.

"Mistress Acacia Culler, a protege of the Archduke Niccolo Velenosa," Acacia humbly introduces towards Thesarin, deepening her bow this time around. That consistent grin is retained on her features though when her dark eyes dip towards Felix and she returns, "But no. The current atmosphere is good. We had an excellent turnout for things and I'm quite pleased. I'm hoping the Lord Commander Silas will join the two of you as we move into the next rounds."
    A tilt of her head has another Grotto servant delivering a coffee-bean sachet and a commemorative coin to be tossed into the fountain for a wish towards the appearance of Simone Greenmarch. "The tastings have begun, Marquessa. We're pleased you could make it! We'll move onto the third rounds here before too long, but feel free to refresh yourself on the previous one and the second which is currently ongoing. The voting will commence at the end and party favors will be given for all, of course."

"I would break your fall, my word on it," Esoka says to Felix, in more of a mock-deadpan that /is/ probably a proper attempt at humor. "Seems only fair, since it would be my fault. Or Lady Tikva's, perhaps more rightly. She's a much better ambassador for the swing than I. As you can probably tell, I was never a merchant." Her mission accomplished, she heads back toward the thing. To swing. Thesarin gets an open-palmed raise of her hand that doubles as a wave, when she spots him.

Tikva is laughing while she compares quiet notes with Ford on the swings, expressing some at least minor trepidation about just how much whiskey she is about to consume.

Esoka has joined the Swinging seats amongst roses.

Mailys is totally just drinking half of all the samples given to her and Kieran, assuring to leave some for him. Her judging is terrible, given she has troubles naming what stuff is and just drinks it like water.

As the next batch of drinks is served, Franco finds himself reluctantly parting with a foamy mug. There's a slight lift of his brows at the newest additions, and an appraising sniff is given to them all in turn. His attention remains on the table, a quiet laugh coming from him at something said or done there, before he begins into the second set of drinks.

The Marquessa Greenmarch tilts a curious look toward the first selection that Silas has mentioned, and the tip of her nose crinkles, "Ciders and wines. Oh goodness." With that much commentary offered, she moves on, instantly to the second selection - the current one - with enthusiastic glee normally reserved for small children and ponies. "Ah, this is more to my speed." She trills and proceeds to sample.

"... I am familiar with the Lord Commander's skill. He almost killed me once, it really was a wonderful affair, shattered my armor with a training weapon," Merek mentions, while he inclines to the man, then to the Count, "Ah, things are going well for me, and I like a fine wine. I have traveled to Lenosia after all," he admits. He chuckles a bit, "There's something about a dry rose or red that just sits right with me, but too many people today don't understand how to subdue the sweet texture with tannins or production methods, M'Lord," he offers to both Theoserin, and Silas. He then debates, "From the first batch, the rose wine has my adoration, and my... Assistant's," a look to Meeka.
    The man looks at the second, and tries each of them, while he seems to debate, clearing his palette from each one, "The single malt, number six, is really... It has just the right amount of winter spices for the season, but even number four has its pleasures. I... Think that number five, too much pepper, a fanciful mixture, but it's... I don't know, it does not feel like I would drink it this season of outside of a casual purchase," he admits sadly, "Still well made."

Kieran tastes the first sample then moves to the second as they quickly follow one another. It's a bit of a rush. "Well, I am glad the sample are small. A few more at this rate and who knows where I will end up." He leans back in the seat and looks around the garden to the others who are enjoying the tasting. "Any favorites so far?" he inquires of the courtesan.

Felix chuckles at Esoka again. "Alright then. I will just have to take your word for it," he tells her before looking over towards Acacia. He gives her a curious and brief tilt of his head, but just smiles and turns to follow Esoka towards the swings. "So if not a merchant, then what?" he asks with a brow raised. "For that matter, what do I call you?"

Felix has joined the Swinging seats amongst roses.

Silas stands from his initial seat to instead take one closer to Thesarin and Merek, apparently having overheard Acacia. "Merek, Count Riven," he greets pleasantly, but it falters when Merek elaborates on his initial claim. "Yeah that was unfortunate. Lets drink." He reaches for the whiskey - with some reluctance - and the seafood delectables arrayed nearby.

"I see," Thesarin notes and tries to relax his posture and nods to Silas, "Lord Commander. I am pleased to see you here." Merek gets a laugh, "Well, fortunately this is a peaceful affair." He takes a drink from his cup and scans the room a little.

"... It's certainly among my favorite too, my Lady," Acacia delivers towards the Marquessa, before chuckling briefly. There'd been a spark of interest provided to Merek at his words regarding the alcoholic choices though, before she references back towards the Marquessa, "... Do you agree, my Lady? With all of his words? Master Black seems to quite favor and have experience with things-- but clearly whiskey whets your palate." Her dark eyes thoughtfully regard Felix, before she merely brandishes a small smile and then steps back after a squeeze made to Silas' shoulder when he approaches the two men. She does take time for an answering call towards Kieran though, humor in her tone, "Naked and in the heated pools in the other room, I imagine, your Highness? But you have good company and excellent decor. It could be much worse, aye?"

Esoka blinks at Felix. "Oh, I didn't introduce myself, did I?" Before marching over and ordering him to go places. She looks a /little/ abashed, as she settles onto the swings. "I'm called Dame Esoka Greenblood. I'm a sworn to House Riven." She gives Tikva a little nod. "She doesn't let me handle promotion of our goods. Usually. My lord." That last is offered to Ford. She tries not to make the swing move too much as she situates herself.

Mailys gives a shake of her head and laughs, "I don't ever have a preference. I like everything." playfully she tells Kieran, "Should I get better at knowing?" She entirely takes advantage of finishing off anything Kieran doesn't want or finish. The words from Acacia gets a grin from the Whisper.

Tikva cackles and wheezes after her second drink of whiskey, wiping her eyes on her arm as she shakes her head. She rakes a hand through the bright red fluff of her hair.

Bianca entered the garden area, cloak already draped over her arm and a small smile on her lips as she paused upon entry to take a quick glance over the garden and its occupants.

Toward Acacia, Simone opines - deeply, sincerely: "There is never a social occassion that would not normally benefit from a decent bottle of whiskey. Naturally, there is a regional bias," she admits shamelessly, toasting a sample glass to emphasize the point "but it's a bias for a reason, hm." There's a distinct sparkle in her forest-green eyes, suggesting the punchline to a joke that only she might know the lead-up to. Either way, she's amused.

Silas squints as he swallows three gulps of whiskey - one for each sample - and wipes at his mouth with his sleeve. Definitely not a gesture a nobleman would do, but he wasn't a nobleman. A long moment transpires before he offers his thoughts to his company: "I think I like the first one the best, out of these three." He looks to Thesarin and Merek curiously, silently asking for their own thoughts on the subject.

Kieran nods to Acacia, "I do that when not drunk. So of I am drunk I would have to be doing something much more risque and or humorous." He looks at Mailys and smirks, "Right. You and that drink roulette. Do you even taste what you're drinking or is it all like water?"

A servant approaches Bianca upon her entrance, offering a coffee-bean sachet and a commemorative coin to be tossed into the fountain for the whimsical addition of a wish, either alone or with someone. "Welcome, welcome. We're just about to begin the third round, but feel free to catch up on the previous rounds. If you're a fan of whiskey, the Marquessa Greenmarch resides by the fountains who seems to prefer it." The parade of Grotto personnel continue to wind through the area, as preparations for the third round begin to commence with fresh bottles being poured.

Silas has left the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Silas has joined the Couches before the fountain.

Jiacomo arrives, following Eleyna.

Merek looks to Silas, "Well, I wouldn't fault you for liking it, but it does not have the same... Kick as the third on this second selection, it's not as, seasonal. Still good, but not quite delectable with certain foods I'd eat," he admits, while he seems to debate. Seeing Bianca he lifts a clawed gauntlet in her direction to wave, then lowers it.

"Thank you," Bianca replied to the servant with a gracious bob of her head as she accepted the coin and satchet before stepping a little further in.

"I think each bring something to the table," Thesarin notes, "Though I do think that the third is my favorite. It's fairly straight forward and something that I find enjoyable." He

"One always seems to value peace more with the threat of war," Acacia returns towards Thesarin with a thoughtful dip of her head. She gestures gingerly towards the couches some of the others have seated themselves upon, "But please. Take a seat. Unwind a little." She cracks a tiny grin, before she ushers, "Plus, I'd feel terrible if anyone got too much in their system, despite my jests towards Prince Kieran. Excuse me for a moment though."
    Breaking off from the group, Acacia takes leave to greet Eleyna herself, presenting a bow and depositing a coffee-bean sachet and a commemorative coin for wishing in her outstretched palm to be accepted. "Your Highness. Thank you for coming. The third round is about to begin." Another grin is prepared for Simone, before she remarks, "I certainly hold your whiskey bias, my Lady. I have hopes that someday the Lord Commander will take after your natural habits. Perhaps you can convince him?"

Mailys grins up at Kieran as she responds, "I have won lots of rounds of Dink Roulette." Probably completely by guessing wildly and lucking into the correct answer. "I know what htings are! Although, the majority of the time they do just taste the same to me." Probably because she mixes and matches so much.

The Archscholar eventually made a decision as to her direction, moving to the roses and the grouping there as she new the majority in that direction. Bianca carefully slipped the coffee-beans to her case on the way.

Silas scratches at his cheek. "I like the sweetness of the vanilla," he quips. It could very well be because the drink actively works against one of the things he dislikes most about alcohol: the unrelenting burn that comes with it as it courses down his throat. He pokes absently at the pepper dangling off the glass of the second sample. "Spicy whiskey..." He looks like he might be sweating. His eyes flicker to Simone, but he doesn't comment.

Bianca has joined the Swinging seats amongst roses.

The third arrangement presents a trio of red wines, each with very distinctive qualities. A roasted fruit and cheese plate, spice-encrusted chicken crostinis and dark chocolate sea-salt almonds are served upon small plates to all present, with a light citrus sorbet extended as a palate cleanser. A clinking of plates ensures when they're collected, with utensils neatly filed away and napkins available to mop up any spills. Even Kieran and Mailys are ensured they receive in-person service beneath the canopy of the willow.

Acacia drops Third Sample Selection.

Eleyna steps inside the gardens and is gazing around when Acacia approaches and offers the sachet and the coin. She smiles apologetically and murmur, "I'm sorry that I'm late." If she was going to follow that up with anything, the introduction of food and the red wines effectively distracts her from whatever else she might say.

Merek takes a moment to look at each wine in turn as it arrives, then he drinks from each on the third. A small nod is offered to Silas and Theoserin, as well as all and sundry, "I shall do the rest of my tasting in silence, if you all do not mind, m'Lords," he offers. He then, if allowed, sinks back into the background after his wave towards Bianca, just settling back at his couch, with Meeka making rounds again.

Bianca returned Merek's wave though a little belatedly. It'd been a long day and quickly her attention turned to those at the swings as she was addressed.

With the third group of drinks delivered, Niccolo once more starts sampling each drink, taking a few moments to also taste the sorbet between each drink. Seeing Eleyna, the archduke waves to her and gestures as an invitation for his niece to share the table he shares with a few others. When he speaks, it's quietly to those that seat by him.

Eleyna has joined the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Silas blinks and nods back up at Merek. "Alright. Be well, Master Merek." His eyes follow the departing guardsman until he arrives at his new destination, then turns back to his present company at the couches.

Eleyna catches Niccolo's gesture with a smile of relief as she makes her way in that direction. Once at the table, the princess takes whatever seat is free and offers a faint smile in greeting to her uncle and Deva paired with a longer look for Franco.

Acacia dips her head lightly towards Eleyna, another smile imparted, before she steps aside and then pads gingerly towards the swinging seats and the parties engaged there. Her dark eyes thoughtfully tracked after Merek's return to the shadows, but she ends up greeting Esoka and Tikva once more. "... I lost miserably, didn't I," she laments, eyeing Felix and Ford with a faux-glower before her grin shines through once more. The musicians have tapered down the mood to something a bit more sensual to pair along with the red wines, but the cadence is still enough to not overly invoke drowsing habits. Her digits pry diligently into her pouch, before a small bit of coin is produced for both women. "Wager well won, you two."

"I shall take a seat," Thesarin says and joins the others, "But, yes, the spicy whiskey is rather good. Though, not normally what I prefer to drink." He shrugs and tries the new samples before them.

Kieran eyes the wines brought out in the third round. "Hmmm, wine. Not my favorite. I assume these are probably Lycene contributions." He gingerly tastes one, before asking Mailys, "Well, maybe you can help identify all of these for me and we can know who provided what?"

"I warned you," Felix calls out to Acacia with a laugh, raising his sample glass to her before knocking it back. A smile and a wink are conveyed her way before he turns back to the group at the swings.

Simone is eating this round. Apologies, red wine options.

Merek looks over to Kieran at his comment, from his seat, and lifts his brow a small bit, but he does not address the Prince from where he is at, and then just looks back to a notebook he has out, as if debating which he likes best.

Silas gestures to Thesarin to sit, grinning. "Sit down and rest your tired feet, m'lord. This is a place of relaxation." And wonderful food apparently.

Franco's attention to the newest set of drinks has him giving them the same careful sniff, sip, and cleanse of something between as before. He's rapidly narrowed his choices down to the first two, however, the third drink pressed to a side to leave the other to for further inspection as the blonde man looks towards the newest comer with a tilt of his head down, speaking quietly.

"I used all the salesmanship at my disposal," Esoka says stoically to Acacia. Her face relaxes to a smile a beat later. "And Felix was kind enough to take up the offer of the seat despite it. "I suppose I should thank you for forcing me to mingle. I sometimes don't know what to do with myself at parties. Apart from drinking." She moves onto the selection of wines, her cheeks showing some color now.

"... I can't help it. There's something about refined, generally serious-looking men swinging gleefully over roses that I can't not get a kick out of." In due form, Acacia faux-soberly returns to Esoka with a hand over her heart, "I shall never look down on your sales skills ever again, Dame." The winks are received and reciprocated with a renewal of her grin, as she sways back a half step with a languid stride and idly waved towards those present. She returns gradually into the realm of the couches, commenting towards Thesarin thoughtfully, "The Lord Commander is right, really. But you've tugged on my curiosity. What do you normally prefer?" A brief look is granted towards the primarily Velenosan table towards the end, but she soon returns all focus to the couches.

Mailys looks a little alarmed at having to attempt to guess what she is drinking, but mosly it is humored. "What do I get if I am correct, your highness?" she wonders, of course cheekily. Merek's look to Kieran gets him a brilliant smile from Mailys.

Tikva laughs in a bright rush of air and lifts her sample glass in Acacia's direction, cheeks pink. "I almost feel bad to have robbed you so," she says.

Thesarin does take a seat and makes an effort to get comfortable, "I will admit I have not visited this place, before, so it took me a little time to get here."

The conversation with Silas appears to be very pleasant, although Simone does glance toward the Lord Commander of the Iron Guard as he pauses himself. "Were you going to say more...?" Curious, but not overly so. Then, wisely, the Marquessa also drops it in favor of another tiny bowl of citrus sorbet.

"Hey! Who are you calling serious-looking?" Felix asks of Acacia, swinging just a touch higher in defiance. He doesn't look the least bit upset, of course. He still maintains the same mirth as he did before.

Silas checked composure against difficulty 15, resulting in 22, 7 higher than the difficulty.

"Deathly serious-looking," Acacia deadpans in Felix's direction, with enough emphasis to coerce her brow to wrinkle some. The grin which soon returns to her mouth is a sure giveaway though of the very temporary performance, before she invokes to Tikva and Esoka both, "You both had your work cut out for you. How am I supposed to dare with your charm?" She adds lightly towards Bianca, "Perhaps I should be lucky that you came fashionably late, or I might've been out of even more coin." Servants nearby begin to ready themselves for the final arrangement.

Tikva laughs out loud and rests the heel of her hand against her forehead. "Gods," she says.

Silas hitches his shoulders slightly, but his smile remains fixed in place. "It just seems... trying, near the end," he answers the Marquessa in a polite tone. He turns back to the three wine glasses before him, all about half full. He was a wine person. "I like the second," he concludes, matter-of-factly.

The fourth and final arrangement is possessed of temptation incarnate, with a broad mixture consisting of a memorable tropical vodka, a dark chocolate-essenced stout and a heated spiced rum. Crumbly cheeses, decadent chocolate-dipped wafers, broiled exotic bits of coconut, and an elegant spread of seasonal fruits are provided to all. The trio of musicians harmonize perfectly with the change, presenting a lightly playful piece which trickles through the garden itself.

Acacia drops Fourth Sample Selection.

"There was a final, last minute submission that will be paired with the others. While it's not on the boards itself, this special reserve mixture was donated by a particular House hoping that others would enjoy it as much as they. So, please ensure you consider it in the voting process."

The extra drink is provided alongside the others:
a rich honey mead, golden hued and richly flavored.
It is easy to miss just how very strong this richly flavoured beverage is, the dense blend of sweet thickness and the scent of roses combined with eighty percent alcohol for a mighty kick once it settles into the who who has imbibed it.

Merek watches as the next round comes about, and he takes his time to sample each one, still watering his palette before them. He then settles back, and starts to casually sip from at least one, while he looks on in idle curiosity, to the wall across from him. Meeka has sampled just about everything, and continues her rounds around the place.

Franco's attention is settled at the table he's at, but he dutifully lets the servers move along, and rob him of wine after liquor, and replace it away. His attention drifts to the drinks, secondary to the table, an easy smile settled onto the mans face as he seems to consider the options with a slow decision, keeping his voice low.

Esoka flushes some at Acacia. Though, with her bronze cheeks pink from the liquor already, it's not as noticeable as all that. Unless you're looking for it. Tikva's laughter makes her laugh as well, as she eyes the fourth round of samples. To Felix, "Aye. There'll be time enough for that. Tonight's all about drinking, and I'll not complain about that."

Tikva rests her fingers against her cheeks, checking them for the warm glow of flush there that suggests that despite the size of the sample jars, she is well on her way to inebriated. Lightweight, maybe. "Hoo," she says. Onward, anyway.

Bianca's smile preened a bit further at Felix's words, her head dipping again in gracious incline. Otherwise, her attention flickered about those gathered at the swings happy in her moment of observation and quiet repose as she sipped lightly at the additional honey mead.

Mailys has entirely switched to letting Kieran sample the drinks first before she polishes off the remains of the alcohol. Seriously. Where does she keep it all in that little body?

Simone meets the fruit course with a brightly anticipatory grin, eyes creased at the edges as she flicks her gaze from the new selections - toward Silas - and back again. "It's all right to be honest, Lord Commander. I will likely be as large as a dockyard tough by then with little desire to do more than rest and complain, loudly. But," she takes a sniff of the stout. Pauses, setting it down. "Until then I will proceed as normal." She picks up the vodka selection, downing it. "Mango!"

Thesarin nods to the Marquesa, "My lady, I am Count Thesarin Riven," he says politely, and samples the newest offerings, "Indeed, this is probably my favorite. Always have had a soft spot for mangos." He then affords another nod.

"Mmm. Mango," the Lord Commander enthuses as he tastes the second concoction. He seems to be going out of order. The other two are sipped at in short order, but it leaves the man visibly conflicted. "I like -all- these..." The crumbly cheese and wafers were gnawed at. Simone's retort has him laughing outright. "Well at least I didn't have to say it." It seems they're both fond of mango, too.

Lyiana tiptoes quite literally, into the garden and right into the midst of an alcohol filled event. She almost turns around to walk right back out again, thinking she has interrupted an important gathering.

Before Lyiana might be able to escape or head that way, a server has already approached her, offering a coffee-bean sachet and a commemorative coin. "If you'd like to stay, Mistress...? They're on the fourth round currently, but you're more than welcome to taste the others still on mystery display before the voting occurs soon. Please enjoy." The teal and black attired Grotto associate straightens with a questioning smile, before gesturing her back inside.

The next batch of drinks is delivered and Niccolo starts sampling each one. The first drink has him growing pensive, and then he's moving to the second and third ones which seem to be more to his liking. That last entry submission is also sampled, before he speaks quietly to those at his table.

Kieran eyes the next set of drinks, "Ahhh, now comes the eclectic drinks." He takes quick sips and hands the rest over to Mailys who seems happy to drink it all. "What do you get if we guess correctly? My eternal amazement at your skill."

Lyiana does not squeak, despite really really wanting to. She is dignified, damn it. She takes the coin and listens to the server politely, moving to watch instead of sample, thinking the server with a soft smile and a quiet, "Thank you." before she moves onto stand near a table. She observes for a moment, before picking up a glass, sniffing, and then delicately taking a sip. She smiles quietly to herself, and then picks up the second glass, taking another sip of a drink. She doesn't know what these drinks are, but the second glass has her cheeks pink and she keeps drinking it.

Merek notices Lyiana, and waves in her direction a bit, while he motions to the seat beside him on the couch, while he makes notes in his notepad. Meeka moves over to confer with him, there's agreeance, then his assistance walks off to make more rounds.

"The voting will happen shortly. Feel free to wander the gardens or strike up conversations with any you fancy," Acacia relays towards Lyiana when she finds herself not far from the table itself. There's an assessive look delivered to those who are present and how far into their samples they are, before she slouches a bit more comfortably against the edge and exhales contentedly to go with it. One of the earlier whiskies from the second round is liberally poured into a glass as she takes it up herself and then gestures gingerly with it towards Merek, "See? Summoned already." With an amiable wink, she remarks, "Enjoy yourself, love."

With a slight start as Merek waves to her, Lyiana has literally finished the second drink and is on to sample the third, apparently getting into the spirit of the thing, though she's not really testing drinks, she's drinking so she doesn't have to talk, though by the Gods Merek motioning her over makes the young woman down the third drink and walk quite steadily over to his couch to sit politely. Gods she's always polite. This will be a long night.

"And now the final portion of the evening-- the voting! Thirteen different houses have donated their drinks for the enjoyment of all -- and more importantly, to demonstrate their support for the defenses of the city as a whole. The silk-attired banquet table is open to all for any who would like second or third-- or fourth tastes to supplement the memory or just because they're offered." Slips of parchment and inkwells are made available at each of the tables, while a teal-gowned server moves about with a gold-embellished bowl in order to collect them all. "Please submit your votes to the Grotto representative to be tallied and don't forget about the thirteenth mead which can also be included. In the meanwhile, our party favors will be coming around for all present. Please accept it with our sincerest gratitude during the trying times which face us. The Winners will be provided prizes and once more, we must thank House Grayson and the Iron Guard for their generous sponsorship."

Lyiana has joined the Couches before the fountain.

"Just that?" she says playfully. when she tastes the mango her lips turn down in a frown of concentration, "I feel like the way this one was made is mildly familiar." When Lyiana arrives the little Mailys shoots her a brilliant smile and blows her kiss. "Come sit with us, Lyiana!" calls Mailys, petting a spot on the day bed. However, she is off to join Merek so she leaves her with the open ended offer.

Lyi's cheeks flush as Maelys blows her a kiss and gives her the trademark smile and she hides her face for a moment, clearly being teased tonight is not on her list of to dos, for her cheeks are flush with a slight embarrassment, though it's not anger. That's good. It means she's still got a hold of her emotions.

Eleyna has left the Tables and chairs before the fountain.

Jiacomo have been dismissed.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Acacia gets a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal from a basket full of party favors.

Niccolo submits his vote, with a dip of his head to the Grotto representative. His attention turns back to those at his table, as he continues with the quiet conversation there.

Bianca puts a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal in Leather Case.

Simone puts a sleek, portable flask of a unique blued metal in a braided belt of iron-colored leather with a silver clasp of a stag.

As the votes finish being carefully tallied with others nearby to ensure there's no altering of them, the servers deliver the small metal favor to all present. Acacia ventures nearer towards Silas after receiving the slip, if only to lean over his shoulder and murmur gently in his ear.

Bianca has left the Swinging seats amongst roses.

Acacia drops Revealed Alcohol Names.

One by one, the mystery names are revealed upon all the drinks and who had donated them as the voting commences. The last one serves as Artshall Reserve Mead, 995, donated by House Laurent.

Tikva laughs a little more as she clutches her cheeks, smiling after Bianca as the Archscholar takes her leave. "I should see if she does want us to send her some," she says.

Simone offers a quirk of a smile toward Lyiana, sidelong. "Sassy and sauced," she jests, before she laughs. "Although you tolerate your alcohol, don't you, Lyi?"

Franco hands his vote to the servant nearby, taking the offered flask and giving it a curious lookover, before settling it on the table before him. There's an easy smile on the mans face, and he's shrugging his shoulders as he clucks his tongue.

Lyiana giggles and turns to Simone. "I do if I must, Simone. Though I am quite capable of drinking small amounts without falling over, I assure you. Sassy and sauced? Does this mean that you are needing assistance with another drink perhaps? This will make you more sassy and sauced." She grins and her green eyes twinkle. Simone is the only one who can perhaps bring the tailor out of her shell with a few simple phraises.

Silas leans in towards Acacia as she reveals the winners. He looks mildly surprised at the results, but nods and stands from his seat. He strides back to the area he stood in for the speech and claps his hands. "Ladies and gentlemen, we have our illustrious winners." A pair of attendants approach him, carrying the intended prizes in silk cloth. He faces them and takes the first prize: an exquisite amulet made of iridescite.

    "First place goes to Oseyan Mango by House Kennex."

    "Second place goes to Lenosian Shiraz Firewine by House Velenosa."

    The prizes are handed out: the medallion to Ford, and the aeterna cloak to Niccolo, either by the Lord Commander himself or by the corresponding attendant.

    "Mother's Spiced Cider by House Riven and Artshall Reserve Mead, 995 by House Laurent were also popular choices, and deserve ample applause."

Merek looks to the revelation of the names, and lifts the flask he was handed up in a toast, then he takes a small sip of nothing from it. He needs to fill it! He looks to Lyiana, and chuckles a small bit, with a smile for her, then he's listening to hear anymore announcements.

Once the names are revealed, Niccolo faintly grins in Franco's direction. "I knew that one was yours," he says to the man, of the whiskey provided by his vassal's family. "I definitely want a bottle of it," he says and then his voice drops.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Merek before departing.

Ford almost wasn't even remotely expecting to hear his name called. Let alone for first place. It caused him to double take and then drop his brow entirely, "Oh.. Thank you." Then he breams and accepts the lovely medallion, "It should be noted that the Oseyan Mango will be available for purchase from either myself, Stormward Exports, or Black Mountain Customs house as of this moment."

Tikva laughs and claps for Ford's medallion, beside him, as she braces her shoes against the ground beneath the swing. "Well done, my lord," she says. Dropping her hands against between her knees, she sits with a slightly self-conscious straightness, eyebrows swept high.

Acacia straightens herself when Silas announces the winners, bringing her hands together and applauding genuinely for all parties involved. Her grin broadens a bit as she regards Ford, before voicing herself, "The bottle is truly magnificent also. It's a good pick for one to have on their shelves." She continues clapping though when her dark eyes filtered over towards Niccolo and Deva, combining the two with a small smile and then she remarks, "Once again, on behalf of House Grayson, the Iron Guard, myself - Acacia Culler, and the distinguished Courtier Saedrus Whisper who allowed us to use his establishment, we thank you for your participation and time so freely given in defense of the city. We hope you enjoy the drinks and as all the names are now revealed, please ensure you speak to those people who were your favorites to learn more about them and acquire their specialties! The Gods watch over you all."

Merek takes a moment to applaud for those that have won, and then stands up after a moment. He looks aside to Lyiana, and dips a small incline, "I have much to do this night, if you will excuse me?" he asks. He latches his flask to the belt he has on, and then prepares to leave after another round of applause to the winners.

Kieran has left the A day bed beneath the willow.

Lyiana clapps her hands after putting her drink aside, handing it to Merek as he needs to refill his flask with it. "I don't need anymore." she murmurs, though people may say no to that motion and that she needs all of the drinks, but she is being nice to Merek.

Merek does whisper to Meeka, who walks over to Acacia.

Lyiana also waves as Merek has to depart. She smiles and leans gently back against the couch. "Farewell, Merek." she says softly.

Esoka claps loudly when the winners are read. Loudest when House Riven's name pops up. She's not shy about being a partisan for her liege's liquor. "Congratulations, my lord," is offered to Ford. "I might try the mango concoction again later, though I don't think I'll sample anything else tonight. I'd like to be able to find my way home."

Niccolo accepts the delivery of the cloak with a lift of his brow and a touch of a smile on his features. He inclines his head to Silas and the attendant both and repeats the gesture for Acacia. Looking in Ford's direction, he lifts a hand in acknowledgment of the first prize winner with a faint grin. The archduke starts clapping for both the hosts and the winner.

Mailys pecks a kiss on Kieran when he tells her he has to leave for urgent, unavoidable business. For the time being see seems content to sit by herself.

Niccolo is overheard praising Acacia for: Another excellent liquor tasting event. You never cease to amaze me.

"No, no more is needed after this -" she sighs, applauding gently for all of the announced winners. Following that, she catches her breath and hauls herself from the couch and to her feet, flinching.

Merek is overheard praising Silas for: Great hosting.

Merek is overheard praising Acacia for: Great hosting.

Silas seems pleased at the results, and the reactions they evoke. He nods to Ford as he makes his pitch. "I believe I have bought the pineapple version before, so I can vouch for it's craftsmanship. Thank you for submitting the drink, Marquis Kennex," he politely compliments the Thraxian lord. It was befitting that a Mangata medallion go to him.

listens to the announcement, and nods, an easy smile on his lips. There's a shrug in response to Niccolo's words, and a nod of agreement. "It'll be yours without issue, Your Grace." He replies, voice falling a bit quieter after a bit of applause are joined in.

Niccolo is overheard praising Silas for: House Grayson should be proud of you.

Acacia turns upon Meeka's approach, engaging in quiet conversation with the woman and accepting with due care the letter which she holds in her hand. A small, warm smile is achieved, before she turns more diligently to fully bow towards Merek even across the distance. "Thank you ever so much for coming, Master Black. We all know you're a very, very busy man. If you should need anything, please feel free to contact me. I certainly like to return favors and your own tasting event remains fresh in my mind."

Ford dips his head with a rather gentlemanly salute towards Silas, "You do me a kindness, Lord Commander."

"Ah - we are all well, Lyiana," Simone assures the momentarily worried clothier with a mild smile. "Don't look so worried."

Merek looks over to Acacia, while Meeka moves to return to his side, and he nods a bit, "Thank you, Madame Culler, it was a wonderful event. Feel free to hand out my own selection I sent to you to one of the winners, as a gift!" he smiles. He then adjusts his doublet, and reverses the vest into its aketon state, then walks out.

Merek has left the Couches before the fountain.

Meeka leaves, following Merek.

Tikva laughs a little too loudly again, resting the backs of her fingers against her cheek. "The ability to walk home without falling over must not be overestimated," she says.

Lyiana smiles and nods her head to Simone, pushing a hand through her hair as her fingers twirl the auburn strands around and around her fingers. She doesn't have a drink in her hand, so her hair is the next best thing.

Deva snaps back from whatever reverie she was lost in, just in time to applaud for those announced. With a wide smile, she dips her head toward Acacia and Silas, and then turns that look upon those seated at her table.

Silas is overheard praising Acacia for: The best co-hostess!

Felix applauds for the winners and his smile is warm as ever. The tall, friendly armsman had wandered off to go take care of gentleman things, but he does make his way back over to the swings to resume his spot on one. There isn't any swinging for the moment, though. He's had enough to drink at this point where swinging would be a terrible idea.

Felix is overheard praising Acacia for: Being the sort to get a party swinging.

Ford rises from the swing and collects his new prize as well as the nifty flask! "Thank you, everyone who voted for the Oseyan. It only confirmed my suspicions of how popular it would be."

Ford is overheard praising Silas for: Best events, stupendous events.

Ford is overheard praising Acacia for: Tremendous events, really.

Silas smiles back to Ford, then turns to address Niccolo. "It was a tough choice, but I believe I voted for yours, Your Grace. The Lyceum continues to live up to it's reputation." He bows his head demurely towards the Archduke. "And it was fun catching up to you." They didn't have many opportunities to interact any more.

Tikva is overheard praising Acacia for: A lovely party, I'm so glad you invited me and that our house was able to put on a showing!