Helena has left the a Judges Dais bearing the Redrain banner.

2 Redrain Guards, Lucien, a bright-eyed pine marten arrive, following Helena.

Helena drops a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Cufre has joined the arena floor and pit benches.

Gianna gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Cufre's eyes make a quick sweep of the amphitheatre before settling into what seems to be the commoners' seating. She gives a little fluff of her scarf as she settles in and draws out a prayer book and a writing implement.

Mabelle takes a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Nisaa gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Videl gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Gianna doesn't go for a dramatic entrance; the dramatic bits come later. Instead, she's slipped in and she lingers out of the way. For now.

Lethe gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Elgana gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Gwenna takes a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Gwenna puts a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print in lacey spiderweb black leather belt with metallic white spider buckle.

Arthen gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Mabelle has been here the whole time, so she just sits on the dais arranging her posh fascinator.

Stepping in with a slight jingle from the beautifully embroidered jacket, the Lord Martino Malvici crosses into the Northlands Arena with a slight tentiveness. Unfamiliar with these, his eyes cross over and an apprective crease of them to those he knows and greets him. A low bow follows to Princess Helena and those all at the judges table before he continues to one of the gazebo's afar.

Martino takes a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Nurie slips into the room and takes a spectator's seat, her eyes bright with anticipation. It's rare that she gets to merely enjoy rather than run about chasing people with pins when it comes to clothing, and she intends to make the most of it. She's eo excited she perches on the edge of her seat, keeping her hands folded and laced in her lap so that she doesn't fidget too much!

Evaristo is loitering near the runway itself as people start to trickle inside, leaning up near the judges table but not taking a seat - he's just here to lend a helping hand, bowing or waving to the audience. He blows a kiss towards Gianna there and smiles brightly and cheerfully at her and makes that silent 'wow'-sort of thing at her outfit.

Martino has joined the a small gazebo with a forest motif in the style of House Blackwood.

Gianna tilts her chin up in Evaristo's direction in a sort of greeting. Very confident, she seems.

Lethe arrives wearing a Death themed outfit, but instead of modeling the Harlequin is here to spectate. She looks around with an eager smile and finds a good seat to admire the outfits.

Videl has been here early, with her usual pace she wanted to make sure she beat the crowd. Having not been too well of late, she's taken a nap in the judges booth, as people begin to trickle in, her assistant wakes her up and she takes a look around to see who else is here.

Entering the arena ready to attempt to model for the event, Gwenna makes some 'ooo' and 'aaah' sounds at the scarves. The Redrain looks over the bright hues and, perhaps unsurprisingly, decides on a red one. Tucking the lovely item into a pouch on her belt, she then makes her way farther in. A cheerful wave is offered to her cousin as she makes her way toward where the models are gathering by the runway. "Everything looks just exquisite, Helena!" Seeing Gianna just keeps that warm smile on her face. "Nightingale. No doubt you will give us all quite a runway for our money. Get it?"

Gwenna is overheard praising Helena: Festival Fashion Show hostess with the mostess!

Lethe has joined the arena floor and pit benches.

Mabelle is overheard praising Helena: Lovely fashion show

The arena has been turned from a place of martial combat and competition to one of fashion faceoffs, all in the name of the Queen of Endings. Helena Redrain is hustling around, making sure the models are ready and that the judges have their notepads and quills... surely they are the skull inkwell sets from the poetry reading earlier this month. Finally she finds Evaristo and nods to the platform, putting her arm on his to let him escort her up to the stage. She looks a little out of the ordinary in all black and gray, given her penchant for greens and florals, but the gown she wears is strange in another way -- every move she makes makes the set of eight articulated legs around her neck and shoulders twitch and rear up as if the spider her dress embodies is alive.

Martino has left the a small gazebo with a forest motif in the style of House Blackwood.

Martino has joined the arena floor and pit benches.

Gianna inclines her head to Gwenna, her gaze taking in the Princess from head to toe and back again. She looks... calculating. Look, this is serious business. There's a flicker of a smile. "Oh, I hope so. You look wonderful, Your Highness."

It's good to get to a place a little bit early, especially if people are going to be asking your opinions about stuff and whatnot and besides Arthen Dayne's kind of an early-getter-there anyhow so by the time things are a-goin', he's already come along with Princess Elgana Redrain and the pair of them are sat up at the judge's seating where he is fiddling with a fancy scarf he's been given like he just can't get it right, "I have got to say, I reckon a combat arena is about the safest place to hold a thing like this. Y'just never know when fashion is goin' to turn violent.", he jokes to Elgana.

Summer is usually the time for Nisaa Whisper to dress in more color, but for the festivities today, she arrives in umbra iwth pewter and peridot accessories. The crop top and flowing skirt are befitting her reputation as a dancer, if not exactly what she would wear to dance in. She is not here to dance today though, simply to observe. She stops to procure a scarf for herself, tying it not around her neck, but her hips. She smiles and looks for a place to sit.

Evaristo is quite distracted - there's some amazing outfits here, not only Gianna's. It will be tough for the judges, no doubt about it. He focuses fully on Helena and leans in to whisper something to her, before he offers his arm to escort her up the platform. His own outfit is fully a hymn to Death as well - but he's much more understated than the models, and not her to outshine the hostess.

Martino has joined the line.

Gianna has joined the line.

Rodrigo, 1 Greenmarch Guard, 2 Greenmarch trained guards arrive, following Alessandro.

All smiles, Elgana is situated at the Judge's stand next to Arthen making some small talk. As the explorer-adventurer fiddles with his scarf, the Redrain royal just watches but doesn't touch - at least not yet. "It is the perfect place for a fashion show," she agrees as she finally reaches out to adjust the scarf a little to the left, then a touch to the right. "There. Perfection!" she exclaims warmly.

Once they're on the stage, Helena looks out at the crowd (haha) tipping her head to catch whatever it is the Mockingbird and Second First Harlequin says to her; whatever it is makes her smile more brightly. "Welcome all! Thank you so much for coming to this event. For some of you, it might be the first time you've been in the Arena, which is an amazing place. Do feel free to look around. The library is my favorite spot." She smiles at Gwenna, before addressing the crowd again. "Thank you for supporting the Festival of Death. Please make sure you take a scarf as a memento and to wear to some of our upcoming events. Without further ado, we'll start the show!"

There are several models from all walks of life, but of course the best are saved for last... the more ornate outfits sure to be showstoppers are held for the end.

"As to you," Gwenna replies to Gianna before she gives a quick glance over her outfit. "Thank you for the kinds words. I was probably a bit conservative on colors, I admit, but I'm not unhappy with how it all came out. After your showing at the wrap party, though, I can't say that I'm not nervous," is offered with a small laugh. "Still, it is all for the Festival and hopefully I manage not to trip on these ankle lacings I thought were a good idea at the time." Her cousin Elgana and the family's famed historian, Arthen, get belated waves, the princess noticing their fine ensembles as well. And then the catwalk seems to come to life so!

Turn in line: Martino

Taking turns with Helena to introduce the models, there's about ten or so in the line first, men and women - mostly black and white creations, but there's also a rather bold yellow and black one, a very Lycene creation. Also a gray and silvery one, spiderwebs embroidered in silver thread along its length - simple and classical. And then, it's Martino's turn... Evaristo's voice carries true across the arena, showman as he is after all.

"Lord Martino Malvici, Voice of House Malvici, has worked with Mistress Aerywna Froic to tailor this display of refined gentleman's wear to pay homage to the Queen of Endings. Starting with a stiff white shirt and formally pressed trousers, this leads of an elegant draping of a loose umbra coat, spread to display the expression an embroidered jacket that serves as a bold expression to the Queen. Starbursts of golden bones, each hosting a golden skull in the center, dangle from parts of the outfit in a show of deathly decadence in Lycene style." He makes a sweeping inviting gesture and smiles brightly at the Malvici lord.

Martino checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 28 higher.

Arthen Dayne looks suitably mollified when Princess Elgana manages to situate his scarf just so, giving her a look like that small thing could well be magic. Fashion, who can even do it? And he tosses up a hand to wave at Princess Gwenna too when she waves to him, ever-enthusiastic in his greetings! He opens his mouth like he might shout something to her from over where he's sitting at the judge's seating, but a whole fashion show seems to blossom right there and so the explorer turns his attention in that direction instead to watch. Er. Judge.

Martino lifts his chin from the arena, a passing murmur of good luck is shared to Lethe before he steps forth. He steps with sure confidence, a touch of swagger to lead himself in the shoes around the arena and across the front of the judge's table. Pausing, lifting his chin, his hands tucked within the coat without buttons to bare the jacket beneath.

That jacket reveals the secret embroidery, the dangles of golden thread and mock-bones worn by Lord Martino. The reason why there is a slight clink. Pausing a moment longer, he then struts back across the arena. Following the edge of it away from the judges and back where he started.

Better late than never, Alessandro arrives! Or at least, it's better for anyone who wants him to be here, but hopefully some people will. In any case, he's here, holding the hand of a little girl who looks to be around 8, and also like she's never been quite as excited for anything in her life. They arrive just as Martino has his turn, and her eyes widen as stares at his outfit in what can only be described as rapture! "Look at the bones!" she exclaims, and Alessandro lets out a little chuckle, replying, "Yes, very appropriate." He looks around then, spying Gwenna, and starts over that way with a wave to the judges' table, and also to Elgana.

Helena is overheard praising Martino.

Turn in line: Gianna

Lethe is overheard praising Martino.

Aendor, a grim-faced House Acheron guard, Faleena, a prim and proper lady's maid arrive, following Umbroise.

Nisaa politely watches each model as they make their show, applauding appropriately for each with a smile. it is difficult to tell which of those first outfits and models she likes the most, as she keeps her expression the same throughout. At the announcement of Martino, she turns to watch the man, leaning to someone near to speak approvingly in her accented voice. "I am liking the nones, yes? It is being a nice touch."

Evaristo does give Martino's outfit a bit of a jealous, 'I really want that'-look as he walks past him. But, when he sees Alessandro and his daughter, he gives a wave and does a little show for her by making a coin disappear from his palm in a quick little legerdemain trick. But he still has a few descriptions to read, so he can't leave his post, so to speak.

Helena steps up to introduce the next of the models -- her voice isn't as powerful but still clear as she lifts her chin a bit to project. "Nightingale Gianna Whisper designed this outfit, created to her specifications by Miss Nurie Baseborn at the Thorn and Scale. The umbra gown has a fitted off-shoulder bodice with a subtle sweetheart neckline, half sleeves, and a sweep train. Do note the exquisite cobweb lace, painstakingly sewn with great skill. Her stygian jewelry was crafted at the Velvet Box. See how many spiders you can spot her wearing!" This bit is aimed at the children in the audience, a wink for a certain Greenmarch lass. "There are four to find." As Helena moves, those spider legs pull up dramatically before relaxing again around her shoulders.

There's a wink for Arthen before Elgana's attention gets snagged by Gwenna's wave, returning one to her favorite Redrain cousin before the contest turns up a notch. Those dark eyes settle on Evaristo as he speaks and then to Martino as he models off his outfit. There's some murmurs and nods from the Redrain royal before she's scribbling down some notes perhaps. Her smile stays warm as glances back toward the Malvici lord now and again as she continues to write her notes. Spotting Alessandro she gives her best friend a wave, her smile brightening when she notes who is with him.

Videl gazes upon Martino's outfit with a critical eye. A few hmmms and nods as she considers the outfit, though she does not appear to be overly impressed with it

Gianna is ready to strut her stuff. And strut she does, head held high, her expression aloof. Her overly dramatic cloak sweeping along behind her. The flared skirt of her cobweb lace gown also trails, but far less dramatically. Pewter and stygian adorn ears, throat, wrists, and fingers, along with no less than four jeweled spiders. Go ahead, count them. She even has a veiled black hat. So mysterious! She comes to a halt, juts her hip out to one side, and rests one gloved hand there. So sassy! Hold the pose. And turn and strut with sashaying hips and that's it, she's done.

Gianna checked composure + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 13 higher.

Nisaa is overheard praising Martino: Quite a handsome cut of tailoring.

Helena is overheard praising Gianna.

Lethe watches with fascination as she looks at each of the beautiful outfits. She can't help but clap gor her favoties, and she looks at Martino and his outfit with a grin. As Gianna struts she has a hard time taking her eyes off of her outfit.

Lethe is overheard praising Gianna.

Tucking himself back into the arena, Lord Martino bows his head to the judges to murmur a thanks and in wanders the Lord with the other contestents. A flash of his teeth to them, daring them for a moment in secret.

Gwenna is overheard praising Martino.

Gwenna is overheard praising Gianna.

Umbroise slips into the arena and finds a seat, though she is a bit late. Her dark, ravenous eyes are already studying the models and their fashions with a keep interest, lips curved into an amused smile as she watches them strut their stuff. She smooths her hands over ruby silk skirts, then folds them in her lap. She's wearing a pair of those spider hairpins, and decked out in red and black for the occasion. But, that's just how she normally dresses. She studies Gianna rather closely as she steps out, and she smiles warmly, lifting her hands to clap for the beautiful ensemble.

Gwenna checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 25 higher.

Evaristo is overheard praising Gianna: I'm stunned. STUNNED

Nisaa applauds too for Gianna, smiling a bit broader for her fellow Whisper. "Stunning, of course," she says in approval.

Nisaa is overheard praising Gianna: A vision in spiderwebs!

Attired in the seemingly depthless black umbra is so well known for, Gwenna is covered from collar to ankles in the materal. All black would, perhaps, been rather dull, so the pieces have been adorned with brilliant white aeterna and silk, in places, in designs made to look like spiderwebs. Iridescite jewelry also helps to add a balanced contrast, the pearly-white of the jewelry boasting black diamond spiders. Even her make-up seems to borrow from the theme; dark kohl around her eyes and dark gray blush against her fair skin complete the whole look. She manages to navigate the catwalk and almost look like a pro! At the very least, she does not trip over the cute webs that circle her ankles.

Umbroise is overheard praising Gianna: A poised and graceful model for a lovely ensemble.

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes, 2 House Mazetti Aspirants, Sirra, a very quiet maid arrive, following Alessia.

Evaristo is overheard praising Martino: Rather jealous of that outfit!

Martino is overheard praising Gwenna: Blending the make up as well? I can't one up that... incredible!

Gianna watches the other contestants, applauding for them. Thankfully, her gloves are palmless, so she can still make some noise. A bit of noise. It's light applause.

Lethe is overheard praising Gwenna.

Nisaa is overheard praising Gwenna: Spooky! Beautiful!

Considering where the little girl is looking, she does see the trick Evaristo performs, and a little gasp escapes her as her eyes widen so far that they threaten to pop out of her head. Luckily they do not. That would probably put a damper on things. "How did he do that?" she asks, looking up at Alessandro, who shakes his head. "I do not know," he replies. "You can ask him after and see if he will tell you." She nods, but then there is the call to count all the spiders from Helena, and that is Serious Business, so she looks that way again as Alessandro leads them to some seats just as Gwenna takes her turn.

When do you do the judging at a judging sort of event? Arthen Dayne's pretty sure it is right now and if it isn't then he's going to do it anyway, it'd seem. He jumps up from his seat and claps real hard for Lord Martino, "Hey, that's a fine and gentlemanly getup you've got goin' there! I ain't seen clothes that nice in a long time!", and boy is he ever enthusiastic about it. There you have it, judged. Gianna's not far behind Martino and Dayne doesn't even get much of a chance to sit back before he's cheering and applauding more, "That's the Nightingale! Ain't she somethin'! Wow!", rowdy as he can be, "I bet Death is gettin' real chuffed!".

Evaristo can't help but to look a LITTLE proud there, when Gianna takes the runway. As the Mockingbird of the Bard's College, he has a favorite. Probably a good thing he's not one of the judges. "Next up is our lovely Princess Gwenna Redrain who is wearing a spiderweb inspired outfit crafted of black umbra with aeterna and silk web embroidery. The gown, slippers and gloves are accessorized with iridescite jewelry, including a bracelet, earrings, and circlet, accented by black diamonds. She designed both outfit and jewelry, using Bear Threads for the clothing and The Velvet Box for the jewelry." Another inviting gesture for the princess and a bright excited grin.

Martino is overheard praising Gianna.

Helena is overheard praising Gwenna.

Umbroise is overheard praising Gwenna: The Princess has an enchanting sense of fashion.

Alessia takes a seat, merely here to observe the fashion show. Her smile brightens as Gianna takes the stage.

4 Redoubt Buccaneers, Bengalo, the sneaky black cat, Luna, the sweet, studious assistant arrive, following Carita.

Mabelle gazes in awe at the models as they move along the days. Her eyes swivel to scan them individually, paying particular mind to the train of Gianna's gown. Gwenna's gown also gets her attention, as her eyes keep jumping back and forth between contestants, torn.

Umbroise watches as Gwenna comes out onto the runway, and she smiles, clapping her hands for the beautiful silvery and umbra ensemble she is wearing. "Beautiful," she whispers, to the person next to her, whoever that happens to be. "Why aren't there more fashion shows like this?"

Umbroise has joined the a large pinewood carving of House Acheron's sigil.

As each model makes their turn down the runway, Elgana watches far more quietly than other judges, but there is some laughter from some other judges antics. She bites at her bottom lip as she glances toward Arthen, nose wrinkling as she says, "I'm so glad you are enjoying yourself, Dayne." As Gianna struts her stuff on the catwalk, on the catwalk, Elgana takes in the ensemble and nods approvingly. More notes, more looking but there's some applause as well for the Nightingale. "Beautiful work!" she exclaims. But then there is Gwenna and Elgana just gasps! "Oh gods and spirits, that gown is lovely!" Even more notes!

All of the models are invited to walk the runway one more time in a long line, circuiting the platform so that the judges can get one more look at all of the spiders and skulls, bats and wheels, brocades and umbras before. Helena watches a little breathlessly, clapping along with the audience, before glancing at Evaristo and taking center stage once more.

"What beautiful outfits and creative minds... it truly is an art, isn't it?" she says, her own gown swishing a little as she moves, the legs twitching again around her collarbone. One joint of the topmost leg then dips and rises a couple of time, as if waving to the crowd. "Let's give them one more round of applause while my judges finish their difficult task and we tabulate the scores."

Gwenna seems relieved that the runway part is behind her, the Redrain letting out a small sigh of relief even as she gathers with all the other models from the event. Glancing toward the judges at the table, she murmurs, "Surely they have quite the task before them. I half suspect we all had the easiest part in this, hm?"

Helena has joined the a Judges Dais bearing the Redrain banner.

Evaristo checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Gianna adjusts the ruby spider pin over her heart, though it's already perfect. "Oh, I don't know. It does take some skill to model well. But I don't envy them, no," she tells Gwenna.

Evaristo checked dexterity + legerdemain at difficulty 15, rolling 56 higher.

Nisaa is overheard praising Helena: Lovely host!

Evaristo's eyes are wide when Gwenna walks up on the runway. There's some looks between Gianna and Gwenna, as if he's momentarily not SURE any more. He stays near Helena and applauds and cheers for the models. "While the judges confer, I'll do a short performance," he says and grabs his lute from near the runway and walks out there. What follows is amusing accounts of spiders and bats, while playing the lute and half-singing - or performing little parlour tricks with his hands. And perhaps the best part? There's a hand-sized tarantula placed on his head that sits there calmly throughout the act.

Nisaa is overheard praising Evaristo: Entertaining announcer!

Alessia gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Mabelle planned to concentrate on the judging part but as glosses over Gianna again, Evaristo decides to play a tune with a spider. On his head. She turns utterly pale and just stares at him, until she is shifted back to attention at the dais

Even though she was late to the event, Umbroise claps for all the models, even the ones she didn't get to see. Her smooth features are composed into an expression of elegant interest in the proceedings, and eventually her clapping dies down with all the rest once the judging begins. Her attention turns to Evaristo as he begins to entertain everyone while they wait, studying the man curiously, along with his tarantula. Her lips quirk up at one corner of her mouth in an amused smile.

"I had Khaavren critique my walk half the morning," Gwenna confides to Gianna with a bit of a grin. "He's brutal, but the little pointers he gave were helpful. I think I fare better with numbers and am much less nervous about such." That said, she turns to watch Evaristo's performance and cheers both upon seeing the spider on his head as well as the endeavor.

Gwenna is overheard praising Evaristo.

Right, the judges have to confer, and Arthen Dayne will probably get around to that as soon as he finishes cheering on and clapping for the last model, "Princess Gwenna, you are a knock-out!", he shouts over the crowd, proving he is Arvum's #1 applauder yet again in anything from poetry to fashion. "Go easy on us! I am prone to fainting!". Is that true? Maybe. It looks like that's the last of the models, so the explorer turns to everyone else at the judge's table.

"Ah... that was quite something! Well, truly, I hope our good Queen of Endings is happy with what we have done today in display for her." Lord Martino Malvici murmurs to the other models and their work. Perfectionist, perhaps even obsessive he brushes a hand over the coat to ensure not a mark taints the umbra fabric. Martino curls his lips afar as he watches Evaristo perform, a gentle clap for him following.

Helena is overheard praising Elgana.

There's a flicker of a smile on Gianna's face when Evaristo performs; she even looks a little proud.

Helena is overheard praising Arthen.

Helena is overheard praising Mabelle.

Helena is overheard praising Videl.

The little girl with Alessandro alternates between sitting on the extreme edge of her seat and jumping up to clap for the models -- she can't seem to take her eyes off Gianna's dress, even now -- while Alessandro is a bit more staid in his appreciation. However, Evaristo's song has him laughing, and the presence of the ACTUAL SPIDER seems to be the only thing that can make his daughter look away from Gianna's //not// actual spiders.

"Your highnesses, ladies and lords, citizens of Arx - thank you all for joining us in this honoring of Death. Remember, life is meant to be LIVED, to be enjoyed. She's gifted us a very special gift. I'm available, as Second First Harlequin of the Queen of Endings and Mother of Beginnings, to answer questions you have of her. For centuries she was lost to us, forgotten - for reasons too long to bring up here. But she was always WITH us - we just did not realise. She is there when we are born, and when we die." He glances up a bit crosseyed as the spider is literally crawling down the side of his head and settles on his shoulder instead.

Umbroise gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Martino is overheard praising Harlequins: Wonderful events and this one, like the others, superb

Umbroise claps for Evaristo, that half-smile still carved into her dark features with that hint of amusement. She then turns her gaze back to the judges, checking to see if they are done deliberating yet. When it seems they are still conferring, she settles back in her seat, flicking open a fan of black lace and idly fanning herself, dark eyes angled through her black lace veil to study the goings-on from her perch in the Acheron seating.

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes, 2 House Mazetti Aspirants, Sirra, a very quiet maid leave, following Alessia.

Gwenna is overheard praising Harlequins: An exceptional event and festival that will surely be talked about for an age!

Cufre gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes, 2 House Mazetti Aspirants, Sirra, a very quiet maid arrive, following Alessia.

Hard to tell if it's part of the show or not, but the spider is now crawling down Evaristo's back and he's trying to reach for it, doing some odd wriggling around. "Hey Silk... no, come back here..." he's heard whisper-hissing as he tries to reach. It's hilarious in its own right. The spider settles somewhere just between his shoulderblades in the center of his back. "Lord Alessandro! Do you think your lovely daughter could give me a hand helping Silk down from my back?" he calls out, winking at the girl. "Promise, she's perfectly tame and safe."

Gianna flicks at an earring to get it to shimmer, waiting to hear the final verdict from the judges. She is not looking at Evaristo's spider friend. Carefully not looking.

Nisaa is, on the other hand, watching the spider with glee. Her smile brightens her features, making her eyes seem to be dancing with light amidst her darker features.

Evaristo leaves the runway to walk a bit closer to Alessandro and the girl, the judges starting to look like they're ready - best get out of the way quick here.

"Well, she can't be Lord Alessandro's daughter if she's perfectly tame and safe.", Arthen Dayne can be heard reasoning out as he catches a snippet of conversation and probably misunderstands what is even being talked about. He's really in the middle of judging stuff.

In contrast to Gianna, Alessandro's daughter lets out a tiny cry of delight when she's asked to help get the spider off Evaristo. Kids, man. "Can I?" she asks as she looks to her father. Alessando's expression looks somewhat akin to the Nightengale's, honestly, but he laughs. "Go," he says. "Just be careful." The girl beams and hops up, moving toward Evaristo as the man comes closer. "Where did you get her?" she asks as she holds up her hand to get the spider down. Alessandro, meanwhile, looks over to Arthen as he hears this, and another laugh escapes him as he nods, continuing, "I now have a newfound appreciation for my own parents, and I have already written several letters of apology."

Helena sees the wave from the judges dais and heads that way, giving the spider a wide berth even as her own faux spider's legs twitch and rear up around her like a dangerous collar. She takes the envelope and murmurs her thanks to the judges, before returning to the platform.

"Let's give a thank you to our amazing judges, Master Arthen Dayne, Princess Elgana Redrain, Lady Mabelle Laurent, and Lady Videl Igniseri," she says warmly, clapping for them as she unfolds the envelope.

"They had not an enviable job, and the top three are all within ten points of one another," she says, sounding impressed. "Third place is the beautiful and talented Nightingale Gianna Whisper, closely following the talented heels of Lord Martino Malvici," she says, allowing the applause for each before gesturing to Gwenna, "making Princess Gwenna Redrain our first place winner!"

4 Redoubt Buccaneers have been dismissed.

Bengalo, the sneaky black cat have been dismissed.

Luna, the sweet, studious assistant have been dismissed.

Rodrigo have been dismissed.

1 Greenmarch Guard have been dismissed.

2 Greenmarch trained guards have been dismissed.

Lethe grins. "I wonder if you could guess what my favorite color is. Oh second place is really good. Congratulations."

Elgana tidies up her section of the Judge's stand, casting a glance toward Alessandro before looking back to Arthen somewhat startled before she just /laughs/! "I think that he meant the spider, not Alessandro's daughter!" There's a grin there and a wink before she looks over toward Evaristo and his spider. She cranes her neck a touch, but that's just right when Helena is talking about thanking the judges, so she beams and looks expectantly toward her sister. "I wonder who won!" she murmurs to Arthen. "I bet it was--" and then she's all whisper-whispers.

Gianna checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Mabelle has left the a Judges Dais bearing the Redrain banner.

Gianna blinks. Once, twice, three times. She's not known for smiling, so the lack of smile is perfectly normal. Perfectly. She's very composed. The Whisper raises her hands and claps for the other winners, with just one little sniff.

Evaristo carefully drops to his knees so the girl can reach. "Thank you VERY kindly, my lady," he tells the girl. The spider? She's still sitting right there, piggy-back riding in a manner. "See, Silk here, that's her name, she was a stow-away on a ship - just like I was, when I was a kid. She found herself in Arx in the middle of the winter, and some mean men tried to kill her. I and a friend saved her. She comes from southern Lyceum somewhere." The spider, when touched, will simply crawl onto the girl's hands. "My name is Evaristo, very honored to meet you," the entertainer explains. He glances at the runway next, to keep an eye on things and see who will win. The top three are hardly a surprise there and he cheers for them all.

Umbroise rests one hand on the seat of her bench, while her other hand works the fan of black lace. After a time, she turns her attention from Evaristo and his spider antics toward the judges. There is an air of anticipation about her, though she remains seated quite primly there in the Acheron seating. The Voice of Aviaron's Peak seems content, for the moment, to sit apart and observe and be left to her own amusement. When the winners are announced, she closes her fan, and lets it drop from the little silken cord around her wrist. Then she claps, delicately but audibly, left fingers tapping enthusiastically against the palm of her right hand.

An applause flutters on the hands of Lord Martino Malvici as he turns his head to Princess Quenna Redrain and offers her a broad smile, "A congratulations fair Princess." The Malvici's eyes crease in the very corners as he pleasedly, proudly even, lifts his chin with the second place. A low murmur to both Lethe and Curfe as he speaks with them in the arena's centre.

Evaristo is overheard praising Gwenna: Amazing outfit!

Martino is overheard praising Mabelle: Wonderful judge, lovely facinator as well

Umbroise is overheard praising Harlequins: A lovely fashion show. What a splendid idea!

Gwenna offers enthusiastic claps for the judges, her fingers tapping her palm for a bit more echo to the sound. She looks properly surprised when she's announced first place, glancing to Gianna and Martino and reappreciating their stunning outfits. "Truly, I must have only eeked it by a point, if that much. It was great fun modeling with you both, and all you others." Cause there were others! She dips her head politely to Martino and grins. "Thank you, my lord. I've every intention on looking up your tailor, I must admit! Truly fine work."

Martino is overheard praising Arthen: He was a unique judge, I liked his enthusism

Lethe is overheard praising Helena.

Umbroise is overheard praising Martino.

Umbroise is overheard praising Helena.

Umbroise is overheard praising Gwenna.

"First place gets first choice of the prizes. We have some beautiful items, including some of Dame Ida's brilliant hairpins, a beautiful stygian circlet, pendants and even a shirt. Princess Gwenna, come on up and take your choice of the items," Helena says warmly, laying out a few pouches quickly collected from the Dais.

Helena drops a red pouch embroidered with smiling white skulls.

Helena drops a small black pouch embroidered with lavender bats.

Helena drops a silver pouch embroidered with a skull wearing a gold crown.

Helena drops a gray pouch with a black spider embroidered on it.

Martino steps from the arena, getting himself ready, and crosses over the arena once again. He takes an oddly longer route to murmur in passing with Gianna. A distant smile, flitter of fingertips to those in the centre and afar he knows.

Once the winners are announced and begin to collec their prizes, Umbroise rises from her bench, and then gathers her skirts as she makes her way toward the exit.

Umbroise has left the a large pinewood carving of House Acheron's sigil.

Aendor, a grim-faced House Acheron guard, Faleena, a prim and proper lady's maid leave, following Umbroise.

Making another one of those 'ooo' sounds, like she did with the scarves, Gwenna moves to collect her prize. "They are all beyond gorgeous, but circlets are a favorite of mine," she admits and touches the silver pouch. "Even the pouches are glorious. Truly, cousin, you are a hostess of such grace and I'm so grateful I was able to be part of this."

Gwenna takes a silver pouch embroidered with a skull wearing a gold crown.

The girl takes the spider in her hands gently, clearly with no qualms whatsoever about holding it. "She's so pretty," she murmurs, proving once again that children are strange creatures. Kind of like spiders! They do climb on everything. "I'm glad they didn't," she says earnestly. The introduction has her giving a little curtsey, though, as well as she can holding a large spider, and she says, "I'm pleased to meet you, Master Evaristo. I'm Valarienne." She holds the spider up for him to take then, as Alessandro looks toward Elgana at those words, grinning at his friend. "It does work for both things," he concedes.

Martino is overheard praising Elgana: A very tidy judge, very proper judge it wuold seem

Martino is overheard praising Videl: The critical judge, I would expect. Always need to impress Lady Igniseri...

Martino is overheard praising Helena: Wonderful event!

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes, 2 House Mazetti Aspirants, Sirra, a very quiet maid leave, following Alessia.

"And the queen of fashion chooses her crown," Helena says with a grin as Gwenna chooses. "You are so sweet. Thank you for being a part of it as well." She gestures for Martino to come claim his prize. "And Lord Malvici, come choose a prize for yourself as well."

Gianna murmurs something back to Martino, quiet, her eyes on the prizes.

Martino bows his head to Gianna, creasing his eyes to her as he murmurs, "Of course..." With that, he steps from her and across to the prizes, "Mine thanks Princess Helena and thank you, and all the judges, but you and the Harlequins for such a fine display for the Queen of Endings." He leans down to pass a hand from pouch to pouch. Pausing the left over the pouch with the Amethyst hairpins in it for a moment longer, glancing over shoulder to Gianna before the boyish, playboy Minister turns his hand to another and accepts it.

Lygeia, a calligrapher and alchemist arrives, following Rysen.

Martino takes a gray pouch with a black spider embroidered on it.

As Martino makes his choice, Helena adds, "Do consider making a donation to the Harlequins to help with their ministry and other events like these." Shameless plug for the organization behind the show, but less shameless perhaps because she's not even a member, only an admirer of their work.

Cufre is overheard praising Helena: A fashion show with parting gifts. What a wonderful way to celebrate being alive!

"The cutest fuzzy spider in the world," Evaristo agrees with Valarienne. He accepts Silk back and settles her inside his satchel now, leaving the lid open, inside a little box he has there. "Honored to make your acquaintance, my lady, and thanks for your help. Lots of spiders at the Shrine of the Queen AND there'll be a spider petting zoo setup soon." Standing up again, he brushes his knees off, giving the child a broad and mischievous and somewhat conspiratorial grin. Maybe Lord Alessandro will be nagged at to find a pet spider for the girl, now... His little spider adventure over with for now, he bows to Valerianna and Alessandro and moves back to join Helena. "I just wish to congratulate everyone and say, I'm THRILLED to see all the designs. Remember, you can wear these more than once - there'll be plenty of events over summer. Unless you want to make new ones. I know how it goes, wearing something twice..."

Gwenna takes stygian spiderweb circlet with silver and diamonds from a silver pouch embroidered with a skull wearing a gold crown.

Martino takes glimmering white spider topped hairpins with washes of turquiose across the rods from a gray pouch with a black spider embroidered on it.

A flicker of a smile for Martino's choice; when it's her turn, Gianna steps up to claim the amethyst hairpins. "My first set of hairpins from Dame Ida," she says quietly. She's lost some smugness. "Thank you, Princess Helena, Mockingbird. Judges." She bows slightly at the waist.

Gianna gets brilliant pink amethyst hairpins with polished bone skull tips from a red pouch embroidered with smiling white skulls.

Martino takes silver pendant with black spider from a gray pouch with a black spider embroidered on it.

Martino takes gold pendant with black spider from a gray pouch with a black spider embroidered on it.

Lethe watches to see what each of the top three picks. She nods to each of them with approval and a happy smile for them.

Applauding at the announcement of winners, when it was made, Nisaa becomes rather entranced by the little girl and Evaristo's spider. She keeps clapping long after she should have stopped due to this distraction. A smile plays upon her lips before she realizes her faux pas. "Oh," she murmurs softly, folding her hands in her lap.

Alessandro visibly cringes at Evaristo's words about the spider petting zoo, though what he //says// is, "What a nice trip for you and your mother to make together." It's about as diplomatic as he can be about that. Valarienne, however, claps her hands excitedly and nods at his suggestion, apparently perfectly happy to go with Margret instead of Alessandro. She curtseys again as Evaristo bows, before the looks over at the prizes just as Gianna picks hers. "I have hairpins from Dame Ida, too," she says, before announcing, "I liked your dress the best." Because, obviously, spiders.

"Thank you again for coming!" says Helena as the winners all choose their parting gifts. "Do take more scarves if you'd like, as well," she says, with a gesture to the little chest full of Death-motif scarves. "I appreciate all our judges, models, and amazing audience, and the Harlequins for hosting us. Please take a moment to look at these amazing outfits in person if their models have a moment to chat, and enjoy the rest of your day."

Rysen drifts into the Northlands Arena with Lygeia at his his side. Hearing the applause, he smiles at those who seem to be claiming prizes, taking a moment to admire the fashions inspired by the Queen of Endings.

Helena gets a red pouch embroidered with smiling white skulls.

Helena gets a small black pouch embroidered with lavender bats.

Elgana watches as each of the winners begin to select their prizes, soft 'oohs' and 'ahhs' leaving the Redrain as she even leans forward to get a better look at some that are chosen by the models. "Such talent!" she says to Arthen with a grin. "Did you enjoy being a judge? Poetry and fashion shows, gods and spirits, you are turning quite cultured, Dayne! You might have to retreat to some lost ruin to roughen up again." Teasing, she winks at the explorer. Once the prize selection is over, Elgana breaks into applause. "Congratulations to you three! Such beautiful attire and such pose showing it off!"

"And give a big cheer and a large round of applauds for our AMAZING hostess, Princess Helena Redrain!" Evaristo shouts out before everyone breaks up to mingle.

Helena is overheard praising Evaristo.

Gianna looks over at Alessandro's ward, then offers a small smile that nonetheless actually reaches her eyes as she approaches. She stoops down to be eye to eye with the girl. "Thank you very much," she tells the Valarienne. Then she removes her hat, moving to place it on the girl's head. It might be a little big. "Here. I think that looks lovely on you."

Martino claps further still, murmurs hushed with Cufre and Lethe still as he dips his chin, "Mmm yes... your focuses in the Faith?" He continues the applause and bows low to the Princess Helena, Evaristo also, for hosting such incredible events.

Lethe gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Videl gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Videl gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Evaristo gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Nisaa gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Cufre gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Nisaa gets a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Lethe gets a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Lethe puts a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print in a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Martino takes a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Martino takes a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Martino takes a violet Festival of Death scarf with a silver spiderweb print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Lethe gets a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Martino puts a Festival of Death scarf in a brightly colored wheel print in a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Gwenna seems quite pleased with her prize, turning the circlet over in her hands a couple of times. "Such artistry. It even matches this outfit quite well. Sincerely, this was such a wonderful event and I enjoyed it a great deal. Again, my thanks to you hosts and judges! The gifts and scarves are splendid as well." With all the flurry of things settling, she catches sight of her brother-in-law and her favorite Greenmarch little lady. "Lord Alessandro, good to see you," she calls and gives a wiggle of her fingers in their direction.

Gwenna takes a Festival of Death scarf in a crowned-skull print from a cheerful red chest engraved with grinning skulls.

Lethe nods to Martino and goes to get another scarf. "This has been a really fun event. I'm glad I was able to come."

Evaristo's praise makes Helena blush a little. "And my co-host, Second First Harlequin and Mockingbird Captain," she says with a grin, before stepping off the platform and moving to thank the judges once more.

Valarienne gasps as the hat is placed on her head. "Oh!" she exclaims, reaching up to touch the veil gently. "I love it!" she says, and then moves forward quickly to give Gianna a hug. "Thank you!" And though there's a hint of amusement in Alessandro's face at the hug that Gianna CANNOT ESCAPE, there is more gratitude. "Thank you, Softest Whisper," he echoes, sincerely. "You can be assured that that is a gift which will be treasured." His attention is caught by Gwenna's greeting then, and he lifts a hand to wave in return with a smile. "Dearest sister-in-law, congratulations! You look lovely, as always."

"Ah yes... after party? To continue on the good, Lady Lethe?" Martino's voice perks a moment higher to share the very idea of an after party for all attending and keeping the conversation with Lethe. A hushed chuckle to Cufre as he mmms, "Dame Felicia has red hair... though I think?"

Rysen makes his way over to Gianna's side. "You are exquisitely dressed as always, Nightingale. How did you fare with the judges?" he asks, as his eyes are drawn to her skull ring and moonstone spider.