Thea takes Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Mikani takes a blinding ironwool top hat from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Rowenova puts A Taste of Arx participant brooch in Messenger Bag.

Mihaly gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Khanne gets a Taste of Arx - sparkling Oathlands wine from House Valardin - Taste of Arx - TAKE ONE.

Thea takes a blinding ironwool top hat from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Mihaly gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Mikani takes Grayson bracelet from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Khanne gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Mikani takes a dense illustrated prayer book dedicated to Gloria from House Valardin - Taste of Arx - TAKE ONE.

2 Whitehawk Guards arrives, following Sapphira.

Mihaly gets a swanky ironwool top hat from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Octavian, a silken spaniel, an aid in Kennex livery, 2 Kennex corsairs arrive, following Zoey.

Cillian takes Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Galatea gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Galateacjest

Mikani takes Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Sapphira gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Galatea gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Khanne gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Galatea gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Nallah, a buff-looking tortie cat with green eyes, 3 House Mazetti Guardians, Sirra, a very quiet maid, an indeterminate number of cats arrive, following Alessia.

Zoey gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Sapphira gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Galatea gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Rysen gets a Taste of Arx - sparkling Oathlands wine from House Valardin - Taste of Arx - TAKE ONE.

Alessia gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Rysen gets a dense illustrated prayer book dedicated to Gloria from House Valardin - Taste of Arx - TAKE ONE.

Sapphira gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Rowenova has joined the Great Table.

Cillian takes Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Alessia gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Rysen gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Ulfric takes A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Alessia gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Rysen gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

12 Grayson House Guards arrives, following Liara.

Zephirine arrives, following Talwyn.

Sapphira gets a sparkling ironwool top hat from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Liara has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Rysen gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Azova has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Rysen gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Tolv takes Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Thea has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Ulfric has joined the Great Table.

Tolv has joined the Great Table.

Eirene has joined the Darkened Alcove.

Cillian has joined the Great Table.

Azova gets a sparkling ironwool top hat from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Sam, who is a boy and definitely not a princess in disguise arrives, following Niklas.

A beaming Princess Sabella Grayson has been mingling with the crowd, but now she steps up to the front of the room, gesturing for the Bard's College musicians to lower the volume of their music as she raises her voice so it can be heard clearly throughout the room, "Good evening everyone and welcome to the finale ball for A Taste of Arx! I know this is only the second year that we've had it, but I have to say that I am already looking forward to the next one! I must thank Princess Jaenelle Velenosa, Princess Elgana Redrain, Countess Carita Darkwater, and Duke Cristoph Laurent for hosting such amazing parties in their respective wards. This could not have happened and would not have happened without them and all of the vassal houses that stepped up to ensure its success!"

She looks out at the crowd with a radiant smile, "I find it absolutely wonderful to see the city come together for these events--all of us are emissaries of good will for our respective houses here in Arx whether it's to be protective or proactive or diplomatic or all the other reasons you find yourself here in this illustrious city--and it's so important in these uncertain, fantastical times we find ourselves in to know the people that we pass on the streets every day in this city. For the different Great Houses to reach out to each other to celebrate our similarities and our differences. This week has shown us that the Compact's citizens can rise to any challenge be it arm wrestling or grand speeches or running around with tankards on our head! But most of all it has shown us that we are one Arx. Our world is ever expanding and it is good to know that we can rely on each other, support each other, and be open to understanding our own quirky cultures in order to be a stronger Compact! So now enjoy yourselves, make sure you look over some of the wares we've brought in from each of the houses and maybe get to know someone you haven't spoken to before. Tonight we celebrate the Compact and the all of us who make it successful. So thank you, each and every one of you, for everything that you do and enjoy!"

Tolv shuffles into the Great Hall with a little smile, just a tiny, barely visible one. He's easily missed in the crowd of far more important people, but he does stand back for a moment to take in the place. The large, incredibly decorated place. And then his attention goes to Sabella, whom he listens to with absolutely rapt attention until he realizes he's still just standing there. So he snags a bottle from one of the chests and makes his way swiftly to the large table.

Waldemai applauds the princess' lovely speech. "Hear hear!"

Having emerged into the hall a bit earlier and found herself a seat - and a glass of red wine from a passing servant - Liara turns her attention to Sabella following the speech, and lifts her hands to offer some brisk applause, echoing, "Hear, hear!"

Zoey is overheard praising Sabella.

Mikani enters the Great Hall with her arm intertwined with Rysen's. Dressed in an austere but elegant black longcoat, trimmed with the pure white fur of the Everwinter bear, the Crovane swordsman acquires a drink for himself and his wife. When Sabella speaks, Rysen raises his glass in toast. "Truly," Rysen says to Mikani, "the events have been amazing."

Kalani has joined the Alcove By the Stairs.

Raja moves into the ball all dressed up! No, she is not at glitzy as the highest of society, but she has made an effort with an actual dress, some perfume, and even a new hair-do! She made it just in time to hear the speech. As the speech is being said, she turns her gaze around those assembled, looking for a familiar face.

Adrienne Valardin, arm in arm with her cousin Talwyn, slows with him on arriving to the Great Hall. The sight - the room, the musicians, the people in their finery - is magnificent and worthy of appreciation. Sabella earns Adrienne's rapt attention before she murmurs to Talwyn. "Where shall we start? Perhaps a seat."

Galatea has joined the Green Table.

Azova has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

2 Redoubt Buccaneers, Orion, the surly healer's assistant leave, following Azova.

The invitation said 'Dress in the garments of your region' right? So Lady Eirene Malvici, known for showing up to everything in leather armor, actually took the time and effort to dress like a Lycene woman for a change. Her gown is little more than cleverly woven white strips edged in the red and gold of her house and her long black, white, and silver hair is curled around her face before hidden by a veil. She claps and gives a little two-fingered whistle for Sabella. "Damn straight," she calls in her coarse voice.

When Sabella steps down, the Bard's College musicians immediately start playing again, a nice lively turn for anyone that might want to dance.

Like so many other situations that require meeting up, Mihaly expects that he's going to be a touch late. In the older Riven's hesitation on what the bloody hell he should be wearing, he decided to take the safe bet. Polished the old Knight Commander's armor, he appears, while not completely armored, he did wear parts of his steel. Like the gauntlets and greaves. White, cerculean, and silver adorn the rest of his him. His trademark lynx fur lined deerskin sur coat. At least he carries himself in that classic sense that one thinks of when they imagine an old Crownlands knight. His pipe already burning, he's walks in just time for Sabella's speech, giving a light clap once it's finished. After that, he's making a slow walk around the area, looking for someone in particular.

Talwyn steps into the expansive hall and he hears Sabella's speech, raising a toast to her. He turns to Adrienne by his side and answers, "Of course!" He offers a wine that he picked up from the servant for her, and lets her lead the way to find a spot to sit down

Adrienne has joined the Gray Table.

Talwyn has joined the Gray Table.

After Sabella's speech, Rowenova lifts up a wine flute in her ringed hand before swigging down a half glass.

Sapphira ends up near the musicians, of course, a wave fluttered to a few of the more familiar faces amongst them along with an encouraging smile before she flits over to find a glass of wine and some snacks to sample.

Cheering for Sabella once she's address the crowd, at large, Kalani lifts the glass she's holding and air-toasts Sabella with a salute before she lowers the glass and takes a small sip from it. She scans the assembled, glittering, throng of people and smiles. She leans back in her chair and enjoys the sight and the sounds all around her; just the right amount of mellow will be needed.

It is not only a ball, but one held in the Palace! Khanne arrives without companion, dressed in all her most formal gown of red wine to match her hair and a cloak bearing the mark of Halfshav upon its back. Her hair is more carefully braided and held in place by hairpins representing wolves and elements both. Her head held high, she walks through the crowd with a smile, no destination in mind at the moment.

Entering the Great Hall, Thea is dressed right up this evening. Shaking the snow from her coat, she reveals the dark semi-sheer gown underneath. She hands the coat off and plucks a glass of wine from a nearby tray. Thea smiles and nods her head to those she knows, as always a bit awkward at such events. She goes off and finds a place to sit. Seeing Rowenova and Alessia however, she offers them a wave. Sabella as well,"Your Highness, that was a great speech."

:eyes the wine in Talwyn's hand with deep amusement. "Cousin? /No./" This is evidently not the first time he has tried to loosen up his kin. Water, more to her taste, arrives in a beautifully cut glass and she sips from it. "Sabella is as ever perfect..." she begins as she takes a seat a gray table, voice quieting amongst the din of the celebration.

Smiling brightly to Thea, Rowenova lifts her half glass toward Thea before swigging down the remaining alcohol therein.

Sabella gets herself a glass of something bubbly, perhaps that Oathlander sparkling wine named for the evening, and then turns to make the rounds, stopping first at Eirene's table and very nearly doing a double-take, "Lady Eirene! You look amazing! That dress is absolutely stunning on you." When Thea speaks to her she gets a relieved smile, "Oh, thank you for saying so! I felt like I started repeating myself there at the end, but I'm glad to know that it rather worked! Have you see Lady Eirene's dress?!" She points one Malvici to the other, "Incredible!"

Sabella has joined the Darkened Alcove.

Zoey enters the great hall with her head high and her smile dazzling. She takes a moment to see and be seen before she looks to mingle.

Poppy arrives early for once. It's her first ever ball and is super excited. She's grabbed a glass of champagne and then another of wine. There's also food that she's clinging to with her fingertips. Occassionally, she pushes the tiara on her head back into place before knocking her chin on the high collar of her gown.

Niklas enters just in time to hear Sabella's speech and offers her applause. He waves to a server and says, "Make me a cocktail made out of spirits the colors of the great houses of Arvum!" The server looks pretty confused by this, but heads off to see what they can come up with. While waiting for his drink Niklas moves to stand next to Sabella, offering waves to the various people he recognizes and then a second round of very cool nods for those he doesn't. When the server returns with a tall glass of unpleasantly brownish green booze Niklas takes a sip, does a full body shiver of revulsion, and says, "Don't serve that to anyone else. Dying in the palace is considered gauche."

Entering the expansive hall, Alessia takes in the surroundings for a moment, before approaching Thea. "At this rate, you'll be my ball buddy." She winks once she reaches her. "Your highness. You look beautiful as ever." She beams at Sabella.

Galatea arrives quietly and inobtrusively, dressed in Lycene finery. Her fully steelsilk gown is cut to catch the eye, and surely cost a small fortune--it's a bit much for a commoner, but then Galatea has never exactly been shy about showing off her bank account. She maneuvers her way over towards an empty table and lowers herself down into a seat, making no introductions and no social splash. She is, evidently, content to be a wallflower for the time being.

Raja silently makes her way through the heavy groups of people, finding her way near the refreshment table. She takes a glass of some sweet wine and lifts it to her lips to drink quietly.

Thea smirks at Alessia a bit, amusement in her eyes,"Want to start being my date." She take a sip from her glass, looking about. "I should probably either go and sit or mingle. Martino would be telling me to mingle." Looking at Eirene, Thea grins at her aunt,"That's going to be a habit. You in gowns..."

Michael arrives all by his lonesome. Early enough to have already plucked up a glass and carries it with him as he circumvents crowds to see the set up sights before stopping to listen to Princess Sabella's speech. He looks...unsure of where to proceed quite yet, but he'll probably figure it out.

Glancing around the room, Alessia's lip quirk upwards. She leans in to murmur something to Thea before smiling at Eirene. "My lady. This may be the first time I'm seeing you in a gown." She muses.

Raja glances towards Zoey as she slips up beside her. "Ah. Thank goodness you are here. I was about to flee. I don't think I know a single person in here." She beams a smile.

Talwyn chuckles aloud, setting aside the drink and returning it to the servant. Then he murmurs an apology to Adrienne, "Warm chocolate then? Or... coffee?" he asks with a smile, "I'd thought it was a exceptional occasion!"

Sapphira takes a few sips of wine, but a certain tune draws her like a magnet to the dance floor. She doesn't seem to bother with finding a certain partner, instead just content to waylay poor, unsuspecting dancers for short, lyrical interludes on the floor.

With a hushed coversation at her table with Talwyn, Adrienne raises a slender hand to catch Sapphira's attention and lure her away from her dance. "Or both? You spoil me," she adds for Talywn's benefit.

Ulfric enters the Great Hall looking slightly nervous. Scanning the crowds he finds his eyes land on a spot at a table he quickly makes his way to it, giving polite nods to any who may look his way.

Wulfrum has joined the Green Table.

Maybe it was the veil that threw Mihaly off, but he had just been pausing near where Eirene was sitting about to walk away, until something catches the corner of his eye. Through the smoke of his pipe, the spiced herb trailing away from him, he squints a bit harder, like trying to figure out if what he's seeing is legit. Yep, that's Eirene. And from the mildly dumbfounded look on his face, it's almost like a synapse has suddenly become overloaded and blown out. It might be apt if the Riven's read 'TILT' behind them because he's not quite sure how to response. He probably doesn't realize he's gone a touch slack-jawed, in dire need to pick said jaw off from the floor. "Uh," he stammers initially at the Malvici General. "...hi." Smooth.

Khanne has joined the Shadowy Corner.

Merek makes a way into the place, and gently adjusts the white-black attire which he wears, the beltcape about it as well, while he finds a place to settle in.

Eirene does a little spin-turn for Alessia and Thea. It flares the strips that serve as a skirt. "Taa-fucking-daa," she asys, with all her usual class and poise. When she turns, she spots the look on Mihaly's face and she grins like a cat with a canary. "Lord General. I'm glad you found me," she says with that grin set happily in place.

"You know one at least," Zoey points out to Raja. "Others will come in time."

A messenger arrives to the ball, approaching Khanne with a note. The Duchess gives a perplexed look for a moment, then a smirk of amusement as she takes it in hand. Making her way to a quieter place, she then reads it and sends off a response in short time.

Damien Pierce - A Charming Assistant have been dismissed.

1 Redreef Warden have been dismissed.

Vagari The Cinder Cat have been dismissed.

1 Order of the Firebird have been dismissed.

2 House Crovane Guards have been dismissed.

Biorna - The Protective Mastiff have been dismissed.

Rowenova says in Northlands shav, "Hail, Duchess Khanne. Good to see you."

Smiling to see Alessia, Rysen bows his head. "It's good to see you, My Lady. I hope you'll be da~" When he notices Thea in her sheer gown. His mouth hangs open but no more words come out. He blushes and says, "H-hi, Thea - er - Lady Thea." He laughs softly and takes a rather large drink of whiskey.

Waldemai was dared to show up at the ball in his shiny new top hat, Gloria tie, and snowball fight championship scarf, so he showed up in his shiny new top hat, Gloria tie, and snowball fight championship scarf. "Is anyone going to sing or dance or something? You don't want to see me do the Southport Hornpipe, trust me."

Khanne looks up when she hears her name and smiles towards Rowenova. "Scout Nova. it is good to see you here as well. I do hope you are enjoying yourself."

Raja scans the crowds. She points at Rowenova, "Oh! I know her! She's good people." She continues looking around. "So.. what do people do at these rather elaborate parties?"

Eirene has left the Darkened Alcove.

Planchet the Lycene maggiordome have been dismissed.

Thea laughs at Mihaly. She really can't help it. "I'm sleeping somewhere else tonight. No idea where yet, but I have a feeling it won't be home,"she jokes. When Rysen greets her, Thea turns and bows her head,"Lord Rysen, it's been awhile. How are you?" Lifting her eyebrow as he chokes, she asks,"Are you alright?"

Sapphira catches Adrienne's gesture out of the corner of her eye as she twirls with her latest dance partner, though she quickly abandons him with a most innocent smile to approach the Princess. Both she and Talwyn are offered a flourish of a curtsey and another, winning smile, "Good evening, your Highness."

"It's delightfully Lycene, isn't it, my lord?" Alessia says with a coy smile, noting Rysen's expression when he studies Thea's gown. "But it's lovely to see you too." She raises a brow. "You hope I'll be... dancing?"

Poppy instantly encourages Waldemai, "I want to see that."

Cillian looks over nodding his head, "DUtchess Khanne." he greets her then looks to Rowenova, "Come on kive on the wild side." he winks to her.

Calypso strolls into the palace with a long, unhurried step, her dress clinging to her figure to accent the movement of the curve of her hip as she walks.

Sabella has left the Darkened Alcove.

Mihaly wasn't even able to really reply to Eirene before something important calls her away. One of his hands had been holding something in his hand, his other hand holding a finger up, but no words are able to really come out. As if he were struck dumb by what he saw, the fugue state only lifts after Eirene has left the immediate area. "Wh-what. What just happened?"

With a smile back to Khanne, Nova briefly dips her ribbon-bedecked head before sitting up and replying back, "Very much so. Thank you. Feel free to join us, should you wish to, and you too, Goodwoman Raja." She soon waves to Raja. Though, she smirks back to Cillian. "Mayhaps, if Tarik shows up, I will. Until then, I have lamb with roasted roots." She totally cuts those roots apart!

Overhearing Waldemai, Liara leaves what's left of her wine aside for the time being and gathers herself to her feet, to head for the dance floor. To nobody in particular, she remarks aloud, "Master Waldemai makes a very good point." And, once there, she turns to scan the crowd.

"Nova? Oh yes. Yes she is. And the idea is to be social. Mingle, dance, have a drink or two," Zoey says to Raja.

Sabella glances from Eirene as she departs to Mihaly with a knowing look, "Don't worry, I'm sure she'll be right back," she assures him with a smile, "Lady Thea, Lord Mihaly, have you been able to enjoy the festivities this week?"

Hands clasped on the table, Adrienne narrows her eyes fondly to Sapphira. "You have me at a disadvantage, my Lady. I enjoyed very much your performance with my cousin," she gestures courteously to Talwyn, "and failed to ask your name." She looks past Sapphira to the disapppointed gentleman she left behind. "I should perhaps apologize to the young man, instead, for my oversight."

Ulfric has left the Great Table.

Ulfric has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

After what Zoey says of her, Rowenova smiles softly with a grateful look before chowing down on the tasty food before her.

Wulfrum arrives with one look to the left, one look to the right and then for those nearby he calls "If you missed the taste of Thrax, Darkwater's offering has been brought so everyone can still enjoy it." from there he points people in the right direction then claims a seat at the tables near Galatea.

"I have yes,"Thea answer Sabella. Sipping her her wine, she smiles at Sabella,"I even attended the Thrax's, swallowing fish eyes and all.."

Finishing her glass of wine, and eyeing the now empty glass with a smile, Kalani rises from her feet long enough to find a refill and carries it back with her to where she's seated. It's a small out of the way table, but it does afford a nice view of the entire room. She spots several familiar faces, waving to those she does see, as she smooths her gown with one hand and sips from the glass again.

Waldemai checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 3 higher.

Niklas walks along with his wife, though he is uncharacteristically subdued. Despite wearing a tremendously loud outfit of the colors of all five fealties. Still, "Fish eyes aren't all we eat in the Mourning Isles! I think Countess Carita may have set up a lot of expectations for people visiting the Isles from now on. They'll all be expected live octopuses, fermented shark fin and dog farts in aspic and then they'll get pan fried haddock or roasted lamb and be disappointed."

"How did it taste?" Alessia asks Thea with a curious smile.

Khanne nods in greeting towards Cillian and then looks back to Rowenova. "Thank you, I will. For now, I am content in watching and looking at all the fashion. It pleases me when we all come together like this, north, south, east, west. The Compact, celebrating as one."

Calypso gets Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

"Yes, I'll be fine," says Rysen grinning at Thea. To Alessia, Rysen says, "It is indeed, My Lady, and most appropriate for the Taste of Arx." He smiles to the glaivedancer and says, "Yes. I do hope you'll be dancing. It's always a pleasure to bear witness to one of Arx's most elegant." When Sabella speaks to Thea, Rysen bows to the Grayson Princess. "Thank you again for organizing all of this, Your Highness. It is indeed nice to celebrate in these dark winter nights."

"Right." Mihaly takes a good couple seconds to regain what composure(and self-respect)he just lost, looking at what's in his hand a moment longer before sighing. "Yes. She'll return hopefully soon. The burdens of command and all that." he remarks before tearing his attention and mind off what is still clearly on his mind. Sabella's question draws his attention away. "Oh, it's been a pleasant celebration, Your Highness. I had a great time at the Lycene event in particular. I enjoyed that mind game quite a bit."

Calypso gets a Taste of Arx - sparkling Oathlands wine from House Valardin - Taste of Arx - TAKE ONE.

Waldemai hear's Poppy's call, and the spritely music has a good tempo, so he steps out: You put your right foot out and your right foot back, wrap your arms in front and around again in back, and hat's how you do the Southport Hornpipe.

3 Melaeris Justicar arrives, following Cyril.

Turning to Sabella at Rysen's words, Alessia smiles with amusement. "Did you want me to glaivedance, your highness? I'm afraid I'm lacking a glaive. Though I can improvise and depend on my audience's imagination."

Poppy checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 44 higher. Poppy rolled a critical!

Calypso gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Hearing Niklas speak of the live octopi, Rowenova barely manages to swallow before letting out a hearty laugh! With a smile, she soon nods to Khanne, "Me, too."

Calypso gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Mihaly gets Drowning in the Deeps from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Waldemai is overheard praising Poppy: That's some fancy dancin'

Poppy wastes no time. Down goes the wine, champagne and things she was nibbling at and she races out to the dance floor. Her arms go flying into the air and after a few beats, she's copying Waldemai perfectly. "Like this? It's so fun!"

Sapphira looks between Adrienne and Talwyn a moment before she claps her hands together in recognition, "Oh yes, the snowball fight. Lady Sapphira Whitehawk, at your service, bardess and Devotion of Limerance." Looking back over her shoulder at her abandoned partner, she waves a hand lightly, "He will find another, far lovelier lady than I to dance with, I have no worries."

Thea looks over to Alessia and tells her,"Not awful,"but looks up to Niklas,"I know, I know! I don't mind seafood and such. It all wasn't bad, I promise!" She eyes his outfit meanwhile and tells him,"That is quite--I like how you blended all the colors." Yes. She said that. Gracefully even!

"I can only take credit for the idea and must defer nearly all of the thanks to my cohosts, who put everything in their wards together and worked with the vassal houses to make it all happen! But I am very glad to know you've enjoyed yourselves! I definitely loved going out and seeing all the little touches each ward had. And I don't think I've eaten so well in my life!" Sabella laughs as she talks with Thea, Mihaly, and Rysen, taking Niklas' arm and just radiating happiness. When Alessia asks her question she nods and looks around, "I'm not sure where you could find a glaive, but I would absolutely love to see it!"

With a gesture at the servant at Adrienne's reply, Prince Talwyn now turns his attention back to Adrienne and Sapphira, "Good to see you again, Lady Sapphira - it was a pleasure to perform with you the day before - We should do that again."

Matteo, an eager knight's apprentice arrives, following Irisa.

Calypso has some words with someone in Malvici livery, pointing to the stocks of alcohol. Whoever it is seems to take in stride the indication that yes, they should be getting ALL of the alcohol. All of it. Calypso is left to enjoy the party while someone who works for her dutifully gathers bottles to take home.

Cyril enters the Great Hall, accompanied by his guards as his pluses. The four of them display proudly their Melaeris uniform. Inside, they disperse, the guards going for drinks. Cyril walks slowly, his peg leg and cane tapping on the beautiful ground. He steps off to the side to look around.

Merek gets Griffon's Gaze from Chest of the Gryphon - Take one.

Tolv tilts his head at Rowenova, and then looks for what is probably a little longer than polite at Niklas. His fingers tap briefly against the bottle of cider he's drinking--slowly--from, and then his attention seems to drift elsewhere entirely. He seems to remember to take another sip after a moment.

Niklas, in voice and attire profoundly distracting, catches Adrienne's attention before she remembers to refocus on Sapphira. The introduction is accepted with pleasure and Adrienne gestures to an empty char. "Please join us - unless you seek to dance. Your courtiern seems to appropriately understand his loss. Do you sing as well as play the tin tray, bardess?"

After getting a refill on the wine, Rowenova lifts her cup toward Calpyso. Then, she shouts aloud her way, "To the best face puncher in all the Lyceum!"

Irisa has joined the Alcove By the Stairs.

Merek gets A Taste of Arx participant brooch from a display case with elegant reeded columns.

Merek checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

Calypso executes an elaborate, even overwrought curtsy for Rowenova when toasted. "You've got a dance saved for me tonight, I hope. I intend to collect one way or another, and I'd hate to have to elbow someone else out of the way."

Merek finds a place to listen while he sways a bit in a dance, because it's a ball, and looks like it makes the man feel better a bit.

Zoey has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

"General." Mihaly starts to move toward Calypso. The Knight Commander produces a hip flask. "I see you've already got one for yourself, but I was wondering if I could share a drink with you, eh? Figure's it's about time I say more than a few parting sentences to you." A very vague smirk from the usually neutral Riven. "Don't let me stop you if you plan on getting out there." By 'there' he means the dance floor.

Rowenova lets out an uproarious laugh, "Alright then!" She apparently agrees, easily enough. After another laugh, she swigs down more wine.

Thea sees Calypso and offers her Duchess cousin a smile,"Duchess Cousin, hello." She grins as Rowenova's furture dance partners are threatned,"And there you have it. Your other partners have been warned." Thea is content at the moment, sitting on the couch, her long legs crossed, chatting away with her glass of almost empty wine.

Sapphira looks curiously to Talwyn, "What sort of music do you like playing, your Highness?" She soon splits her attention between him and Adrienne again, "I do, yes. I sing, dance, and play a few instruments, for the most part, though I also do enjoy a bit of theatre when I have the chance."

"We're supposed to be pretending to be civilized people tonight, Sir Mihaly." Calypso may have been doing a little bit of pregame drinking, judging by the languid ease with which she links arms with Mihaly and starts leading him towards a servant circling somewhere with a tray. "Let's share our drinks from glasses. Where's my aunt? I heard the dress she had planned is something to see." She gives Thea a cheerful, almost ladylike wave. Almost.

The knight that enters is a commoner. Not the most well known knight, but one from one of the Grayson Houses. A proud young woman, nonetheless. The diamondplate sword is peacebound and she's wearing a long blue dress that is probably very expensive by her own standards, but probably just barely worthy of being allowed inside. She looks a bit on the shy side and hesitates before stepping further in. There's Calypso over there, and ..Mihaly? She blinks and continues her gaze around the room, wringing hands just a bit.

Spotting Irisa, Kalani pops up from the chair she's seated in and, though she is NOT tipsy in the least, waves to get Irisa's attention. Not content with just waving the Seliki physician skirts her way around the crowded room and, because she's stealthy like this, she sneaks up on Irisa and hugs. "You're here! Love the dress! I saved you a seat."

Alessia has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

"Excuse me one moment," Sabella says to the group she's talking with, giving Niklas a quick kiss on the cheek and then turning towards, "Michael! I'm so glad that you were able to make it!" She grins at Kalani, who greets Irisa, "Look, Lady Kalani is here! And Dame Irisa! You should dance! I think there's a few people on the dance floor already and Lady Alessia has promised to do some glaivedancing later!"

After what Thea says, Rowenova lets out another laugh. "I can only hope that the Duchess might give those who show up later and who did not get the warning a lighter elbow, rather than the full-force elbow."

Khanne procures a drink from a passing servant, lifting the glass to her lips as her eyes stay set upon those dancing, her foot tapping along to the music.

Poppy finally finishes dancing and cheers for the members of the bard college. She beams at Waldemai, "I will have to get you to teach me another dance later. But now, champagne." She returns to where she put her drink down before heading to the band of northerns in the corner. "Hi. Mind if I join you?"

Poppy has joined the Great Table.

"You will not count me among those you may fool with such courteous words, Your Highness," says Rysen to Sabella, before she excuses herself. "Organizing such large events in sequence is a feat worthy of an epic. I would not be surprised if you attended each event. It is your efforts that the whole compact unites under House Grayson and finds in that sense of unity an imperishable reserve of strength." Rysen bows respectfully to Niklas. When he raises his head, his gaze passes to the prince's circlet, and he chuckles. "The height of fashion as always, Your Highness. I look forward to seeing your imitators bedecked in such wondrous colors for the rest of the season."

Tolv wasn't exactly slumping in his seat, but he does sit up straighter. He gives Poppy a small smile, before gesturing at all the available seats. "Don't mind. Doubt the others mind. Go right ahead."

Ayallah, a physician's assistant arrives, delivering a message to Rysen before departing.

Michael thought he was so sly. So slick. That he was going to be able to scoot somewhere and sit unnotic... "Princess Sabella!" Michael starts and lifts a hand to wave at the Organizing Princess. "I don't think I'm allowed to skip parties at the Palace, your highness." He'll trundle along after her and inevitably ends up at the same table as Kalani and Irisa. "You don't have to dance. Don't let her browbeat you two."

"Your grace!" Kalani sinks into a quick but graceful curtsy as Sabella turns toward where she and Irisa are standing. "This has been so much fun. Granted," she looks around the room, grins, and looks back, "I don't see anywhere to have a snowball fight inside this ballroom. But aside from that, it's perfect." She mimes throwing a snowball at Merek, who's standing on the edge of the dance floor, turning back as Michael arrives too. "Nonsense. We love to dance. We're really good at it, too, but she's better," she tips her head toward Irisa.

At the princess' mention of her promise, Alessia raises a brow, giving a Thea a chuckle. "Gods, I really should have brought a glaive." She settles onto the couch beside her.

Adrienne also looks to Talwyn, adding after Sapphira mentions the theater, "Talwyn is to play the villain soon for the Playwright." She straightens his coat with a hand. "And will do wonderfully, I know." Refocusing on Sapphira, she continues, "I envy your versatility. Do you have any performances planned in upcoming weeks?"

Niklas clucks his tongue. "The season is nearly over. We should all be looking ahead! Sartorially speaking, that is. Though I suppose in all other ways, too. The doctrine of Lagoma and all that. But fashion matters, Rysen! I do hope you've stopped going off and getting yourself stabbed for now. It's not a good habit." He watches as Sabella butterflies off to see others, then says, "Perhaps Marcus Sulla will show up and need to have everyone introduced to him. Give Sabella a challenge."

Irisa is clearly surprised to see someoen waving to get her attention. And then when they disappear, she looks away - only to be ambushed a few seconds later and it nearly makes her jump. The words don't even register for a moment. "Oh. OH? My dress. Oh, yes, thank you. I think I'll be eating noodles for a few months to afford this. Thank you, truthfully." She seems to relax a little, seeing someone here that she knows and might talk to her. And then there's another! Sabella. Irisa turns and her eyes go wide at seeing someone so high up. She almost chokes on her voice and gives a deep curtsey, "Princess Sabella. Its an honor to see you." Dancing? Can she dance? Irisa looks like she might cling to Kalani, though. Looking to Michael gives her a sense of relief, though.

"Or getting eaten,"Thea adds, mumbling under her breath. But Eirene is no where to be seen. "Auntie Eirene WAS here,"Thea tells Calypso, but something came up." She grins, telling her,"We had a long trek home." More wine, glass empty. Where's the whiskey? "Dame Irisa, good evening." Her eyes flicking over to Michael as well,"Lord Michael. It's been awhile. I hope you've been well."

"Is that what this is?" Mihaly remarks to Calyspo, tone wry. "Alright, I suppose I can feign being proper." He looks about for a second, before plucking a pair of glasses of what we're probably going to be filled with wine or something equally fancy. A small deposit of whatever is in his rye is poured into each, offering one to Calypso. "Here. Glasses. As for your aunt, something likely not important that some Lieutenant thought just 'couldn't wait'. Probably the same Lieutenant looking for a promotion."

Sapphira arches blonde brows as she looks to Talwyn, "Oh, what play? He mentioned something about a goat-themed warlord to me not long ago, but I think you would fit that role far better than I." Soon, she adds to Adrienne, "I have some very early plans, but nothing concrete coming up. It hasn't been long since I returned to the city, so I don't have much prepared yet. I might see about some impromptu performance, perhaps."

"I would never browbeat anyone into dancing but I might subtly suggest it in every sentence I ever uttered for awhile until they surrendered just to change the subject," Sabella protests with a laugh, swatting at Michael's arm, "And please, no throwing anything in the Great Hall so that when I come up with my next idea the King and Queen allow me the use of it once again! Please do enjoy yourself, I'm trying to make at least one series of rounds before settling somewhere!" and then she's off again!

"I hope you will send an invitation if you do so." A smile flits across Adrienne's features. "I'm newly arrived as well. I've heard stories of Hawkhold. Do you miss your home?" Adrienne pulls in her chair, both to better hear Sapphira and also to allow a jewel-bedecked couple to pass behind her.

"Oh alright, you grace, but only because you insist," Kalani replies with a laugh and a quick curtsy to Sabella, impish delight in her expression. "I did promise, that is, that I won't throw anything," since Sabella is safely away to the next group, "but not throwing, what about bowling? We could make huge snow balls and bowl them around instead."

Thea eyes Alessia and tells her,"So now you are not only my ball buddy, but now my drinking one." She grins at that,"Our friendship has progressed from near death to--this! I'm proud of us." Her whiskey is brought over and she takes a relieved sip.

Talwyn nods fervently and considers Sapphira's question, "All sorts really, but I do enjoy orchestra and ballads -" he replies. To the question about plays, "We should look at doing a rehearsal soon though - I will need to find out more about the role. With a party of musicians, we can perform a few great pieces together!" he suggests

Zoey has left the Grayson Royal Couches.

Irisa hears her name again and looks to Thea, smile warming a little. "Lady Thea. Its good to see you again. No further issues with glitter, I hope?" She does stay close to Kalani, though. Even while the Princess is discussing things. The Dame keeps her quiet otherwise and looks around the room.

Michael scoffs at the notion of a snowball fight. "It seems that it was best that I avoided the festivities then. I disagree with Snow as a general principle." The onslaught of arm swats is soon to come, Sabella being first! Hopefully last. Another person speaks his name and his gaze tracks over to Thea. "Lady Thea. It has been awhile...last time was...Hm. My memory fails me."

Cyril leans on his cane, watching the ball from afar. When a server turns up around him, he reaches for a drink. Bowing his head politely to the server, he turns away to walk around and sip on his drink.

Calypso takes a glass of 'very strong grain wine' from Mihaly with a smile. She toasts him and takes a little sip. "If that's the case, we'll have to get his name, and make an afterparty out of discussing the timing of his ambition." Even the way she uses her words is lazy. Not slurred, not yet. Just lazy. She circles Mihaly around closer to the couch Thea is sitting at, still arm-in-arm. "You're blinded by her beauty to remember last week, of course, Lord Bisland," she prompts Michael.

Rysen laughs, and rubs his head. "I've been unstabbed for a few weeks now. My worst injures of late have been from hangovers. It's been rather relaxing, I grant you," he says to Niklas. "I think I would much rather see Lady Petraea arrive. I think she would actually enjoy herself, and perhaps be persuaded to speak of her first experience riding that which underlies the immense power of her nation."

Drake is fashionably late for the event, but that's how it is to be fashionable. It's possible it took him some extra time to prepare as he's dressed well for the occasion in a silken shirt that is well-fitted, and, for now, not carrying anything such as weapons and armor. He has a drink in his hand before he's even all the way arrived, though he didn't even check to see what it was before testing... after a sip, it seems to be rum-based. The variety at the finale ball is going to be a lot so he'll take whatever comes his way, but at least there don't seem to be many snowballs or eating competitions.

Kalani links one arm with Irisa, a gentle one-arm hug of sorts is given, "I won't make you dance if you don't want to. Plus, I need a lot more wine before I am ready to dance in this huge.. gorgeous.. hall," her voice is small and sorta quiet as she tips her head back to look slowly around. "It's very pretty though," her eyes track down from all the glittering facade. "Do you want to go take a seat? The dance floor might get crowded soon."

"The near death aspect will probably continue." Alessia says with a smile. "Unless you'd prefer a peaceful domestic existence fro now on." She chuckles, as though she just knows that isn't possible. She raises a hand when she spots Drake enter the hall, before shifting her attention to a passing tray of liquor.

Sapphira admits to Talwyn with a hint of amusement in her tone, "I don't know much about the play or the script, as I don't have a role, but I am quite happy to play some music together. Or you could run your lines for me. Flex one's bardic muscles." Moving over, she takes the offered seat from Adrienne, "I visited Hawkhold while I was out traveling, along with my ancestral home from when I was a child. The Gray Forest is certainly beautiful any time of year."

Poppy notices Tolv tapping on his drink. She suddenly grabs his hand and tries to haul him up. "Come on. Let's go dance and avoid bleeding eardrums for a bit."

Merek waves a bit to Kalani with the snowball mime, then he nods a bit, while he keeps on dancing about!

After sitting and conversing for a little while with Liara, Zoey leaves the couches and approaches Niklas where he stands conversing. "Oh my dear patron," she greets him with a smile. "Can I borrow you for a dance?"

Tolv is suddenly yanked up out of his seat, and he has only the presence of mind to set his bottle down as Poppy pulls him toward the dancing. "Uh. Um. Not a great dancer, here. Terrible, honestly. Never took any--whoop," he just manages to sidestep someone else.

Khanne plays her fingers along her necklace as mist-grey eyes drift from person to person, dancer to dancer. She takes in the smiles and laughter of others, watches some as they enjoy the libations, all with a distracted aire and a small grin upon her own lips.

Ulfric has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Carrier Raven named Bucko, Irene - Shaggy Wolfhound, 1 Redoubt Buccaneers leave, following Ulfric.

Sabella has joined the Gray Table.

"Wet-behind-the-ear Lieutenants are always my favorite. So eager. With a complete lack of polite timing. So many fun winter exercises to get your point across incase they don't understand their mistakes." Mihaly replies with a nod, returning the toast with a nod taking a drink. Getting his arm taken and led along, he finds himself near Thea and Michael. "Sir Bisland." he greets politely, but in that same Riven gruffness that Thesarin and Mia are notorious for. Had to get it from somebody. Another nod to Thea.

Poppy doesn't care. "Nonsense. You'll be fine. Just kind of wiggle and jump around." She beams at the poor man expectantly, like he should know what to do.

Watching Poppy and Tolv, Rowenova laughs. "Good luck!" she merrily bids them before turning back to chat up Cillian.

The mention of snowball fights from various corners of the floor has Adrienne looking up, equal parts guarded and humored. All seems to be safe. "Is it rude of me to ask where you are originally from, Lady Sapphira?" She quietly considers her company with the occasional glance to Talwyn. "The Gray Forest /is/ beautiful," she agrees, "and dangerous, too. Do you-" Adrienne cuts off to greet Sabella with a warm smile, partially standing in welcome. "Please, rest. Can we send for a drink for you?"

Talwyn laughs with Sapphira's words, "Yes, I may well decide to take you up on going through the lines

"Duchess Calypso! I hope you're enjoying yourself," Sabella smiles as she pats Michael on the arm while she passes, taking a seat at Adrienne and Talwyn's table, "Thank you! That would be wonderful really! How are the two fo you getting on? It seems that I never see one of you without the other these days!"

Irisa looks up, following Kalani's gaze. She's clearly never been here before so this is a completely new experience for her. There is an attempt to not stare, but that's really hard. Eyes wander over everything that seems to just exude wealth. For someone who had her beginnings, this is something beyond improbable - bordering on disbelief. Finally seeming to hear Kalani, she shakes her head. "No, I'm not sure dancing is in the cards for me this evening. But yes, a seat would be lovely."

Thea snorts at Calypso's response to Michael. "That must have been it." She smooths her gown over her legs, looking over the dancing floor. She sees Poppy and Tolv and chuckles,"That poor man. That northern woman is a force to be reckoned with." She looks up to Mihaly and tells him,"I used my cousin Caelis' son the other evening. He's six. I used during the snowball war. Him and Finn. No one suspects an innocent boy and an dog. An innocent boy with a bag of snowballs until it's too late."

Tolv stares at Poppy. The hand she's grasped taps at her arm a few times. "Uh." He looks at the floor, and then he looks back to her, and a small smile returns to his lips. He seems a little less unsure. "Why don't you demonstrate?"

Adrienne lifts a hand to beckon for a server - one carrying wine, rather than the water that Adrienne stubbornly drinks. To Sabella, she answers simply of her company with Talwyn, "Can you blame me?" Humor flashes in pale eyes before she gestures to Sapphira. "You know, I trust, Lady Sapphira Whitehawk? She is among many talents a bardess, and a talented one at that."


"Lady Alessia," Drake approaches, and greets, gliding over smoothly. "Your hair looks lovely," he says, noting that she has yet a different crown on it tonight. A nod in the direction of Thea, who doesn't seem to be too far away, in a larger cluster of folk. "Has this been a good party so far? I hate to be late, but, family duty."

Talwyn laughs with Sapphira's words, "Yes, I may well decide to take you up on going through the lines." He taps his chin at Adrienne's words, and rises with her to greet Sabella's arrival, "We are well - thank you!" he replies smilingly, "Oh, it is doubly a pleasure to attend the parties hosted by you, with Princess Adrienne!"

"I'll get us ammunition," Kalani promises and snags a pair of wine glasses off the tray of a passing server as she gestures - with the glasses - back to the table her handbag is still sitting at. "So there was a snow fort and snowball war at the Valardin event. And at the Red Rain event there was balancing and running with booze in glasses. And then arm wrestling, and I won a puppy," she chatters cheerfully to Irisa as she points the way to the table and sets off.

Oh. Yes. Obviously. "Of course, Duchess. My mind has turned blank and my tongue to stillness by her sheer presence." Michael is no longer in danger from being hit by Sabella as she wanders off. "Sir Riven!" Because thats someone he recognizes and knows well enough. "Have you come to see me? To plan a time for a spar or two?"

Poppy isn't phased at all. Grabbing Tolv's hands he place them in the appropriate spots and instructs him as she begins to push him around the floor "A, One, two, three. And one, two, three. That's it. now twirl." She tries to push the giant man under her arm but it already has disaster written all over it.

Tolv checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Sapphira offers Sabella a bright smile, "Good evening, your Highness." Turning back to Adrienne, she offers in explanation, "Clemenstone Vale, in the Crownlands. My parents and siblings were part of the Mercier family, before my cousin was ennobled and some of us came to join him." She also chirps to Talwyn, "Wonderful! I do not mind being a helpful hand for other bards, far from it."

"Some mistakes are the sort you correct by having them dig latrines," Calypso opines to Mihaly, still smiling. "And some -- such as, for example, calling Aunt Eirene away before I had the chance to admire her dress -- need a more direct touch." She lifts her glass of suspiciously amber-colored 'wine' to Sabella. "I'm having a wonderful time, Princess Sabella. You've met Sir Mihaly Riven?" Yes, she's attempting to introduce someone TO Sabella.

Perhaps Tolv is a natural. He watches Poppy intently, he lets her place his hands, and after a few moments she doesn't have to push him, he's moving to the beat she's setting. And when she tells him to twirl? He twirls neatly. He even ducks under her arm without tripping or colliding with her.

Draining the drink in her glass, Alessia's brushes a hand against her neatly kept hair briefly. "Just my hair?" She asks without a shred of modesty, though there is a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Duchess Calypso." She greets the woman, belatedly.

Niklas waves a hand at Rysen. "I appreciate that people like Lady Petraea because she's less dismissive of the Compact and our ways, but the difference between the nice slaver and the mean slaver is a little thinner than I'd tend to like. Also, I believe she's already met a number of people. Less need for introductions." He raises his eyebrows when Zoey approaches. "Well, how can I say no? Though don't expect me to find as much delight in the sheer joy of dance as Ian. You'll not hear a single giggle of bliss from _me_."

The addition of Calpyso and Mihaly to her vicinity - or, perhaps, more accuratelly Sabella's vicinity - has Adrienne turning in her chair. She studies both with frank curiosity before answering Sapphira, "Hm. I do not know it to my regret. Thank you for answering my questions with such patience. It will serve you well if you are to rehearse lines with my cousin." While delivering the quip with a straight face, Adrienne might just slightly lean away from Talwyn to avoid retribution.

Irisa doesn't turn away from the arm holding her closer. The Dame is clearly not used to something like this. Resolving that 'dispute' with Stormstorm? No problem. Killing backstabbing negotiators? Easy peasy. Ritzy galas at the palace? This is not her normal wheelhouse. "You won a puppy? Seriously? Good Gods, maybe I should have gone to those events. I don't think I'd be able to handle a dog right now, though. I have enough going on with Riven and everything else happening. What kind of puppy?? Did you bring it?"

After engaging in a spot of idle people-watching, Liara gathers herself to her feet once more and heads towards a group of people - Thea, Calypso and Michael. She offers them a quick smile as she nears. "How do you do? Is that dress one of Selene Whisper's pieces, perchance, Lady Thea?"

Liara has left the Grayson Royal Couches.

Poppy squeals in happy delight as Tolv twirls and swirls across the dance floor "Look at you! You're wonderful." Within a few beats, she's let him take over and lead her through the dance.

Zoey grins and takes Niklas by the hand. "Well then, I shall temper my expectations accordingly," she replies.

Right. Eirene's dress. The memory of it makes Mihaly blank for a moment. "Her dress..." he murmurs. "Dress. Her. Right, yes. Her dress absolutely...something else. Otherworldly I would say. I saw it only for a few fleeting moments, but it was very," he trails off, having to take a drink from his glass. "..nice." Good job, buddy. Before he starts thinking too much on that, he's able to drag himself away from that thought, nodding at Michael. "I came to see a couple of people, so I suppose you'd wind up on that list. As for a spar, I'm not against it, though I'm still smarting after going against Marian Redrain. She's just as good as everyone says she is. Better. I am rather proud that she said I took her to her limit. I didn't win, but with her, that's just as good."

"Sydney says I am too loose with my compliments, so I am trying to ration myself," Drake says to Alessia with a wry expression. Then he looks over to Calypso. A troublemaker, that one; his mouth quirks up at the corner. His eye drifts to Liara when he sees her out of the corner of it... and then he gives her gown a once-over.... then Thea's, also. Clearly he's an admirer of... well, fashion, or at least the women who wear fashion.

"Lord Drake, good evening,"Thea nods in his direction with a smile. "Better late than never and family first." Taking a sip, she admits,"I was worried I wouldn't make it at all, as I was away and it was a long journey." When Liara ventures over, Thea smiles,"Princess Liara, it's been awhile and yes. Yes it is..It's one of my favorites actually."

Laughing at Niklas' remark about Ian, and raising his glass to Niklas and Zoey, Rysen wanders through the crowd to stand beside Khanne. "I don't know if I'll ever get used to the palace," he says to the Halfshav Duchess. "Such beautiful music and such glittering lights." He shakes his head. "Always thought I'd be bargaining with Abandoned tribes on the edge of the Everwinter." He smiles. "How are you and your family, Duchess?"

Tolv gives Poppy a bit of a toothy grin, but the fullness of it doesn't really last, as he turns his focus back to the dancing. And he does continue on, leading now, exactly in the steps she told him to follow, complete with twirl. He doesn't add any more steps. And he doesn't really change if the music does. But he is dancing quite acceptably.

"His name is Hermann," Kalani's tone of voice is delighted as she explains to Irisa, "he's a Whitehold Mountain Dog, and he will so need to grow into his feet. Right now," and she exhales a bright laugh, "he's probably chasing Wit around the house." Wit, of course, is her raccoon messenger, "Which is what he's done every day for the last few days. And it's been such a delight," she shakes her head then. "No. I don't think he's ready for a large event like this. Or, rather, he probably would chase around the room until collapsing in exhaustion."

Niklas gives Zoey a slight nod, then offering a wave to his wife escorts the Kennex lady out onto the dance floor. "I do hope you can keep up," says the Playwright with a half smile. "I'd never have pictured you as the dancing type. Fashionable, of course. But a bit too practical for dance."

Niklas checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 62 higher.

Calypso dips an understated curtsy of greeting to Liara, proving that she's still sober enough -- at least for now -- to remember that she's wearing a dress and shouldn't be executing crisp, military bows. She starts to smile and say something to Alessia, but the look on Mihaly's face when she called Eirene's dress to mind distracts her. Her smile widens slowly as he stumbles over his syllables. "That might have been less about the dress and more about the body filling it out," she purrs, a hint of throaty laughter warming her words.

"I have met him," Sabella says delightedly to Calypso, nodding to Mihaly, "He's Marquessa Mia's brother and is very confused as to how her and my husband are friends!" She sips her new drink with a nod of thanks to Adrienne, "Lady Sapphira, how wonderful of you to join us! Did you see the Bard's College members over there playing? The Nightingale is so kind to lend me the best of the best that have an opening in their schedule for the evenings I request. And no, Princess Adrienne, I don't blame you for your choices in company one bit! Prince Talwyn is fantastic company."

"I'd never have complained." Alessia says in response. She smiles with amusement at Mihaly's words for a moment, before taking another drink from a tray. "The mere sight of the gowns here seem to have a few people fumbling for words." She says with a light chuckle. She inclines her head on spotting Liara. "Your grace." She turns to study Thea's gown. "I'd have guessed Selene, too."

Zoey checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

Michael's face screws up just a bit. "Well. Yes. That would happen. Princess Marian is Warchief for a reason. Several reasons. I think I have a scar from the last time I pursued the folly of crossing blades with her." Aha! Michael's hand reaches out to tap upon Liara's elbow for just one moment. "Princess Liara! You've been far too busy to visit."

Poppy applauds when the music ends and gives Tolv the widest if smiles. "Thanks for indulging my wishes. It was fun, wasn't it?"

"Well, perhaps I'm looking to make a change or two," Zoey tells Niklas as they take their place on the dance floor. "We cannot grow if we never challenge ourselves."

Talwyn bows his head gently at Sabella's words, "You are much too kind. Your husband and yourself are most enjoyable company too - have you two danced yet?" he asks, brown eyes sparkling, he quips at Sapphira, "Maybe we can muscle in amongst them later in the evening to play a tune or two!"

Tolv sketches a rough bow to Poppy. "It was fun," he agrees. And then he gestures back to the great table. "Shall we? Should try more than cider. Could see if..." He glances toward those liquor cabinets in thought, but then he looks back to Rowenova, with a hint of that previous grin.

Khanne looks up as Rysen approaches her. She smiles with a gentle laugh. "You might be surprised. Though, the truth of it is, I have an office here and still am not quite used to it." She nods to his appraisal of the music and lights. "It is a bit magical, that is for certain. But, it does make us better appreciate our visits home too, doesn't it? Different worlds... They are well, thank you. As well as can be in such times. And yours?" With a hand, she gestures to the empty seat near her. "Feel free to sit, if you like."

"I do not know how your husband looks so dashing on the dancefloor... while wearing that coat," Adrienne observes artlessly to Sabella. "Would you allow me to borrow your talent for introductions? I do not know your friends." She gestures to Calypso, Mihaly, and anyone else who might have wandered closer. Talwyn's suggestion catches Adrienne's interest. "I would enjoy hearing that."

"It is quite striking, and suits you well," Liara replies to Thea, before extending a flash of a smile to both Calypso and Alessia. Then Michael draws her attention and Liara answers, "I have also taken a measure of time just to myself. I am quite amenable to informal visits, though, and if I'm not to be found in public, a person might send a note to the mansion - I may very well have some time."

Irisa quirks a brow at the mention of the dog's name. "Hermann? I think I love that name," she laughs, finally beginning to relax. "Awww! Huge paws!" The cheer grows, just thinking about puppy toes and fuzzy feets. "Wit could use the exercise. I've noticed he has a bit of waddle in there. Maybe that's a standard feature on racoons, though. Are you going to teach him to hunt or anything like that? Don't the northern houses teach that?"

"T-that." Mihaly stammers initially at Calypso. "Gerneral Eirene is..." And again, he chews on the side of his cheek. Like he's partially trying to get his composure back while at the same time silently cursing(lovingly) the reason why it's gotten under him like that. "she's a hell of a woman." is the phrase he decides to go with. And then he takes a rather long pull from his glass, reaching for his hip flask to refill. "Were I ten years younger, I might've been able to best her, but as it stands, age is a failing battle that everyone eventually loses." A rubs at his greying beard. "Learning that hard way these day."

Lawrence arrives, following Rukhnis.

Sapphira nods breezily towards Sabella before she admits, "I did, I went over to encourage and pester them while they played." She soon looks at Adrienne and Talwyn at her table with a soft chuckle, "Should we go play a tune, then? I suppose if no one objects, I would not mind."

"I love her gowns,"Thea admits. "Sometimes it's hard to catch them,"elbowing Alessia a bit when she mentions the fumbles. Flashing a smile at Lira, Thea thanks her,"I do what I can with what I have." Which she really does mean modestly. Somewhere, Thea hears someone mention Sabella introductions. She grins at that and mentions,"She gives the best introductions..."

Tolv says something to the people sitting at the great table, before he turns on his heel and heads back toward the Great Hall's entrance. Not, it seems, to leave. No, he apparently intends to rifle through the cabinets for another bottle.

"I might, yeah," Kalani replies with a nod as they reach the table. "I taught Faran to stand guard, after all, and he will kick, bite and so on when needed when we're in the field. Maybe I can teach him to stand guard too, like that. And nonsense," she laughs, "Wit doesn't have a bit of a waddle. Granted," and her eyes narrow a little, "he does eat anything he steals from the kitchen. Though it isn't stealing, it's acquiring."

Tolv takes Bump in the Night from a small, personal liquor cabinet.

Cyril finishes his drink, placing it down for someone to pick it up and continues his slow walk. He listens to the music, mostly why he was here. The coldness of his office tightening his joints and the silence of it, driving him slightly mad. His gaze drifts about the hall, studying the lords and the ladies for fun.

"I appeciate the Lycene sense of fashion," says Drake to Thea, as he can't... quite, seem to get his eyes up to meet hers for a second, but finally manages. Then he smiles easily at Liara. "I was about to say, I suppose I haven't seen you about in a while but I know your work is never done."

Mr. Hops arrives, following Jules.

Frosty, a friendly English sheepdog, Njall, a Northern nullifier, Jules arrive, following Svana.

Calypso looks like she's about to introduce herself to Adrienne but stops herself with a flick of a look in Sabella's direction; far be it from her to take the duty from the Grayson princess. Instead, she sips her Suspiciously Amber 'Wine'. "She one of a kind," she agrees to Mihaly.

Raising her brows when she's elbowed, Alessia's smile turns coy. Then her attention is on the dance floor. She knocks her drink back and excuses herself. The glaivedancer takes her place, where there's space, and begins to dance sans partner or glaive for that matter.

Alessia checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 42 higher.

"They're doing well for the most part," says Rysen to Khanne. "Thank you, My Lady," he says when she offers him a seat. "You're exactly right: when I visit the Northlands, and gaze into that starry expanse, illuminated by northern lights, I appreciate it more than I ever had before coming to live here in Arx. Cillian Weatherwood and I went camping just before the weather got very cold. Gods and spirits, it was beautiful out there." He takes a drink of his whiskey. "I don't think I've had a chance to tell you in person, but thank you for all you did in Westwind Point, Vala. The town has been prospering since your visit."

Poppy trots off to the door to gather the messenger. Having a quick look at the message she almost squeals with delight. She runs off out of the palace to wherever the note told her to go.

Poppy has left the Great Table.

Svana enters in with Jules, having gone far out of her comfort zone. She is wearing a gown encrusted with real diamonds - one that has left her back largely exposed to the elements. She scans the room and looks at Jules, pointing toward the Great Table. "There's Rowenova and Cillian. Seems the safest place to be... unless you want to go to the dancefloor so quickly, sir."

Alessia has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Alessia has joined the Dance Floor.

Tolv returns to the great table with a new bottle in tow. Darkwater bourbon? Why not. He sits back down and eagerly pops it open.

Rysen is overheard praising Svana: A vision at the Taste of Arx Ball.

Eyes up here, Drake! But she still looks amused as she tells him,"It's comfortable. You should try it." She looks at Calypso and Mihaly and tells them both,"I learn a lot from her(aka Eirene)." Oh look! Alessia decided to go dance anyway!

All Thea there!

"You absolutely must go play! I'm sure everyone would love it!" Sabella enthuses to Talwyn and Sapphira, before laughing at Adrienne's request, "Normally I would now take a moment to introduce everyone in the room at this moment, but there are just so many people here I will try to keep it to only those nearby--that is Duchess Calypso Malvici, who is an incredibly strong and determined leader of her people. She is very capable and quite honest and not willing to entertain excuses from anyone, which is quite refreshing actually, considering all the politicking that tends to happen. And that's Lady Thea Malvici who is one of the friendliest people in Arx that you'll ever meet, but also incredibly amazing with weapons as well. Some will say it's because of her two older brothers, but I think that they perhaps took up arms to protect themselves against her," she looks about to spot other people, "That's Lord Mihaly Riven, who is brother to Marquessa Mia Riven, and he seems quite taken with Lady Eirene who was here earlier in that amazing red and gold dress I'm not sure if you saw it, but we likely shouldn't gossip about it unless it's to shower him with praises just in case the Duchess or Marquessa might agree to such a match! But you'll need to point out anyone else that you see and wish to know in this press of people and I'll tell you a little bit about them!"

Jules is with Lizzy on his arm and looks quite like himself, a bit of floof and largely looking like a man who's quite happy as he waves here and there and just looks as if he's greeting everyone. If you've been stuck alone, he literally just waved and gave a particular greeting to you. Seriously, just reply to him and he'll pose back. He looks over to Svana and says, "What's happening here?" He does seem quite lost in his own odd way.

Rukhnis whisks into the Great Hall of the palace with a brisk swishing of dark silken skirts, looking a little out of breath and with her cheeks burnished by the cold night air. Unusually enough, she arrives not by herself or trailing someone else like a shadow, but rather on the arm of Lord Lawrence Crovane. She pauses with him a short ways through the doors, dark eyes scanning the crowd in search of someone in particular. While she tilts her head in Rowenova's direction, it seems that she's found her true quarry in the form of Rysen, and she and the elder Crovane lord proceed in his direction at a rather more sedate pace than that by which they'd entered the room.

Drake watches Alessia move to the dance floor, seeing her in motion. He drinks, thoughtfully. "I was certainly holding her back at the other event, wasn't I?" But at least it turns his eyes away from Thea, who teases him. He chuckles. "I should try a sheer Lycene silk?" He grabs at the collar of his shirt. "Well, this is Lycene silk but it's not sheer. I suppose I'll give it a try next ball and see how it suits me."

"I am glad to hear of it," Khanne replies to Rysen. "The Spirits made sure the right person took the seat. It was an honor to be there, really." Tilting her head and lifting her glass for another sip, a smile curls her lips. "Some are surprised that I keep my humble little cabin in the middle of nowhere. But I see that you quite understand why I do, hearing of your camping trip. My husband and I stayed there through a storm when we were first married. I miss the simplicity of it at times." She pauses a moment then adds, "and the quiet of nature."

Mikani waves to Rukhnis as she nears. She had been standing silently listening to Rysen. Really. She had been here the whole time. Oddly she has a top hat on her head. She sips her rum.

"Fair enough," says Niklas to Zoey. "Every caterpillar deserves to one day be a butterfly, they say. Though I'll have to take their word for it. I was born a butterfly and have gone on to become a super-butterfly." All this said oh so pompously as Niklas leads his protege around the room with an ease of grace that may leave some courtiers seething with jealousy. "Speaking of which, I don't suppose you know of anyone in Stormward who has the time to put together a little event to host the liberation tour that Prince Victus has asked me to conduct? I'm hoping to find someone in each house in the fealty who can assist."

Cillian looks over when Nova says something to him in the direction of Rysen nodding his head to the man and looks back to Nova.

A perceptive scout, Rowenova smiles over to Rysen and Khanne before then glancing over to Cillian beside her. After hearing Svana name them, too, Rowenova lifts up a wave to the Fabron couple then also waves to Rukhnis, too, with an understanding nod before she grins back to Cillian once more.

"Guard dog. I dated this lovely man for awhile, and I swear dogs don't remind me of him. Though they sort of do. For good reason." Irisa flits her hand. "After Seliki was attacked, not sure if you were here in town or not. But I stood guard over the family." Since all the hosue guards were dead. "The guy I was dating at the time wanted to meet the Head of House so I introduced them. He brought them a puppy of a breed I don't recall, but that has a renown for is protection instincts of children and family. Vicious to outsiders. I think I pretty much melted right there."

"It's a ball, darling. We discussed it just moments ago before I went home to change?" Svana half-asks, half-states as she reminds Jules. She carts him over to the table that she sees Nova and Cillian at, stroking his hand along the way. "Do you want to dance sometime soon? I'd imagine you're good at it... wait, why didn't we dance at our reception?" Svana asks, suddenly looking puzzled - and shocked. She sits down beside Nova and gives her a fond hug.

Lawrence bows as they approach Rysen and Mikani. "My Lord. My lady. Your favorite physician expressed interest in coming, I thought I would ensure she got here safely. I think I will need to escape-" He looks around, spotting Poppy from a distance, "The little sprite is here, and I am not dressed for a dance." He grins.

"If I show up to the Grayson grounds....I'm very likely to distract myself and go looking for Tulip. Of all the things in the world to miss, a young cow was not one of the things I thought I would." Michael smiles to Liara before his gaze shifts to skim the large party. "I'll visit soon. Ailys may have me kidnapped if I don't."

Adrienne watches Sabella with undisguised admiration before rising, aeterna rustling with the movement. "Adrienne Valardin," she supplies to the group and adds, with a gesture to Talwyn, "And my cousin Talwyn, whom I hope will be entertaining us shortly with Lady Whitehawk." She studies each attendant in turn. "This is a handsome gathering. Thank you for including us."

Calypso dips her head to Adrienne once introduced. "I'm even -- sometimes -- a sober leader of my people." Not often. Not tonight. "You'd better dance with him, Thea." She nods towards Drake. "Before he drools all over his pretty clothes, poor puppy."

Svana has joined the Great Table.

Lost in the music for the moment, Alessia only allows herself to return back to reality to beckon Thea to join her, while rapidly spinning, balancing on her toes.

Alessia checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 8 higher.

Mikani laughs softly and drags Lawrence to the dance floor if he will let her. To allow Rysen to speak with Khanne.

Rowenova welcomes Svana into a hug, doing so with a smile as well as saying, "Nice dress." Different than she usually does, Rowenova also wears a dress, too. She back pats Svana a few times before she lets go then looks to Tolv, doing so with the intensity of curiosity!

"I came back just the morning after, actually, I never could decide if it was the best or worst possible timing," Kalani replies quietly, sharing a nod with Irisa. "He sounds like he was, or is, a nice man," trouble times like this 'was' and 'is' can be a frustrating thing to sort out. "Normally only people who I'm tending to, or have tended to, for that matter, are the ones who flirt with me," the Seliki physician explains in a quiet voice, eyes alight with mirth. "After all, at that point, they're more or less as their worst possible moment, so there's nothing to lose in the flirting."

Liara offers up a light smile to greet Drake. "How do you do, Lord Drake? I have actually had some quiet weeks, which I am glad for." Then she supposes to Michael, "I could turn to situating myself in the great hall more often when handling correspondence or the like; I have found in the past that people are rather more encouraged then to stroll in for a visit. You know, it has been some time since I last attended a Bisland garden party."

Sapphira unclasps her instrument case, producing a small gittern with a flourish to settle upon her lap, "Quite lucky then that I tote my instrument around everywhere just in case of such an occasion." Definitely luck and not planning. A narrow pick is also retrieved from the case, a few of the strings lightly strummed so she might check its tuning.

"I imagine I could find someone," Zoey replies, gracefully following her patron's lead. "I can let you know in a week or two. Just send me the details and I will give you a name." She grins at Niklas. "Are you going to keep the hedgehog theme? I kind of want to see you decked out in butterflies now."

Wordlessly, Mihaly reaches with his his hip flask and deposits another fingerfull of amber 'wine' into the Duchess' glass. The old Knight Commander knows to keep a General's glass full. "'Taken'." he echoes the word. "We did try to keep is low-key for a long time. Guess that didn't go very well. I dread what she says about me when I'm not around. Hopefully I'm 'tolerable'." he states, unable to hide a small grin. "You flatter me, Your Highness if you think I"m that young to be Mia's brother."

Thea glances over at Calypso and squints at her. "I'm making Olivian get you a new dress,"she threatens her cousin. But she does smile over at Drake,"Talk to Olivian and Martino. They'd be happy to find you something. I promise." Then she realizes,"Wait--when did I turn friendly? Though--" Thea has no problem telling anyone,"My brothers learned a long time ago they're not winning against me--depending on what it is!"

Cillian looks to Svana and Jules, "Of course you are both welcome to come joun us." he looks back to Tolv, "We went to a place we were safe at, we are both capable of defending ourselves."

Rukhnis's gaze shifts between Mikani and Rysen, before settling on the latter with rather a flat expression. Nevertheless she bows just a formally as ever, saying, "Lord Rysen. Lady Mikani. Vala Khanne. Lord Lawrence was indeed kind enough to insist on walking with me over this cold night."

"Oh! Right!" Jules states with a laugh to Svana, "You're quite right, I knew that, just momentarily forgot myself of course." He glances around for a moment then says, "I'm happy to dance if you like. I doubt many people can actually dance at their receptions, too many people to talk to!" He seems amused at the thought then waves to Nova and Cillian after Svana, just always seeming a step behind everything at the moment. He smiles to Cillian and says, "Why thank you goodman! Have you been well since last we met?"

Drake looks over at Adrienne for a moment, clearly meeting her eye, and giving a little smile in her direction. Then he, smoothly, considering all the teasing, takes Thea's hand... putting his now empty drink glass on a passing tray with the other. "I might ask you at some point, Princess Liara, for a dance, but I think Lady Thea has been ... volunteered, to be on my card?" He chuckles at Calypso, but then, looks Thea in the eye. Apparently with effort. "If you will."

Rysen rises from his seat, and says to Lawrence, "It is good to see you again, Uncle, and I'm afraid I insisted that Rukhnis attend, and I'm very glad she did." He smiles at the pair. Duchess Khanne, allow me to introduce my uncle, Lord Lawrence Crovane. Uncle, this is Duchess Khanne Halfshav and Vala of the Spirit Walkers."

Svana shudders as Rowenova gives her a few pats, the fine hairs along her back, arms, and everywhere standing straight up. She shudders once more after that. "I do not think I shall ever wear this dress again, but I'm glad that buying it on a whim was worth it." She winks at Rowenova then turns her attention to Tolv, listening to him for a moment before she turns over to Cillian. "Your baby is cute. Thank you for letting me hold her the other day."

Adrienne returns Drake's glance, her own more reserved, assessing in its way. She leans aside to murmur to Calpyso, "Who is the young pup? His voice makes me homesick."

Lawrence grunts as he gets pulled to the dance floor, "I seem to be racking up a whole lot of these dances I owe to people it seems." He bows as he gets pulled away though, "Duchess. It is a pleasure. I will do a better job of introducing myself when my torture is completed." Then he is still getting dragged away to the dance floor, and despite the torture comment, he is clearly grinning.

Tolv nods firmly to Cillian, while trying to choke down his coughing and look a little more dignified. "Good idea."

Mikani checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Calypso raises her eyebrows to Thea. "You say that like Olivian's got terrible taste. He's not your pet giant's cousin or brother or whatever Wash Kennex is, but he's got enough fashion sense to yell at me for getting glitter on his clothes."

Lawrence checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

"Was. I'd just started hinting marriage to him. Something happened, though. I don't know what. I was assured by many it was nothing I had done. But.." Irisa shrugs gently, trying to not dwell on it. This was something she may have had trouble with for a bit but seems alright now. "I'll try to remember to flirt with you more, m'Lady. Assuming I'm not wounded. A medic or doctor can be good, though. They can't just walk away from you if you have terrible lines."

Cillian smiles, "You are most welcome Svana." he looks to Tolv a brow raises up slightly watching the man, his head tilting to the side watching him.

Talwyn now stands up from his seat, offering his arm to Lady Sapphira, "Indeed - let's go and grace the performance, shall we?" he says, and gives a wave to Adrienne and Sabella as he prepares to lead Sapphira to the musician area, "My lute is always by my side."

Mikani grins as she and Lawrence seem to do just fine on the dance floor. They move in practiced steps and nothing too crazy. But something to have fun with. Mikani leans to whisper in Lawrence's ear as they dance but the music is a fun pace.

"If they're going to play I definitely want to be out on the dance floor," Sabella drinks the rest of her glass and sets it down lightly, "Princess Adrienne, would you like to dance?"

Thea grins at Calypso,"I meant that nicely!" She clears her throat and admits,"Olivian and I have a bet actually, involving the gaunlet." To Drake, she assures him,"I will not stand in the way of a princess. I'm not going anywhere. Princesses first." There is a wink to him followed by a drink.

"Good evening, Rukhnis," Khanne says with a nod of her head. She looks to Lawrence and nods to him too, not recognizing him herself. She had of course greeted Mikani earlier, when she approached, as she was standing there the whole time. Once introduced, Khanne rises to meet Lord Lawrence. "Ah. A pleasure then, Lord Lawrence. You may not know it, but the Halfshavs and Crovane go way back. Welcome." But then he and Mikani are off to the dance floor.

"Oh, hedgehogs forever, I'm afraid. Should Liara ever decide that there can only be one truly fabulous person in the house and, in a fit of jealousy, shuffle me off to my own duchy or somesuch, we will be House Quill and our sigil will be a hedgehog and our seat will be Prickhome. Prickhaven. Something along those lines, I'm sure." Niklas twirls Zoey around once more as the song comes to an end. "I'll forward you the information I have, of course."

Luckily for Lawrence, Mikani is the one that tutored him on dance steps, so they are a little in step despite him being not very practiced. He grins, and leans in to return the whisper.

"I will visit regardless, Princess Liara. Promise. You and Ailys first before Tulip." Michael glances amongst the nearest assembled as dance partners start to get found. Then he looks to be saved. "I should visit somewhere else a bit..."

Adrienne watches Talwyn and Sapphira depart before Sabella's question draws a look of relief from her. "If you are the one asking, of course." She sets down her slender glass of water to offer a hand to Sabella. To her company, she adds, "Please pardon me." Her amused look passes to Thea. "I too will not stand in the way of a princess."

Drake gives Thea a little wince... but it's performative. "Ah, but you were my first choice. Is that a no?" He shrugs a shoulder, rolling it slightly. But then he offers his hand to Liara. "If you are interested. I did tell you I had been practicing."

Kalani grins, that impish grin again, as she hands one drink to Irisa and takes a seat again, glad to be off her feet. "You ever notice that the shoes look perfect, with the dress, and they're designed to make your toes weep. Weep, I say, because only toes are allowed to weep for mercy in killer shoes." She leans back in the chair, lightly, letting out a sigh: "Next time you get wounded, and if I'm on hand, you can practice with me. But," and she arches pale blonde eyebrows, "now that I know for sure you're not seeing someone, I'll just have to see who I can introduce you to. Who ever the lucky guy is, he'll have to like dogs, that's a good way to start the must-have list."

Sapphira rises to her feet, carrying her gittern away with her as she joins Talwyn on heading to the performance area, "What sort of tune might you have in mind, your Highness?"

The words 'Olivian' and 'gauntlet' have Calypso's full attention. "Does he have to run it if he loses? Tell me what I can do to make that happen."

Sapphira gets Restless Heart, the autumn-hued maple gittern from a leather covered gittern case tooled with a design of wind-blown leaves.

Rukhnis watches a bit bemusedly as Lawrence is swept off onto the dance floor by Mikani, but she only shakes her head wryly and returns her attention to Khanne and Rysen. Not that she seems to have anything to say, but rather simply folds her hands in front of her and looks patiently attentive.

Sabella laughs and offers Adrienne her hand to lead her to the dance floor, "Maybe we should have told them what sort of music we're best at dancing at before we came out here. I am very glad you seem to be enjoying yourself, though, and if you see anyone else you'd like to be introduced to do not hesitate to let me know for even if I do not know them I will introduce them with such fervor that they will doubt themselves and assume I must actually have once met them sometime!"

Sabella checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 42 higher.

Adrienne checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Mikani laughs as she continues to dance with Lawrence. "See you are doing very well .. you will have a dance card as long as your arm." She teases her uncle as she moves with him.

Liara gives a light tilt of her chin in assent to Drake, though then she overhears Niklas and breaks into laughter, before calling over that way, "If we could only have one fabulous person in the House, why, we would have to have more new duchies than I think we could reasonably fit. I assume your sigil will be teal?" Then she warms with a smile for Michael. "Good to see you, my lord." That being said, she turns to Drake, to head for the dance floor then.

Mihaly has been relatively quiet for the past couple of minutes. "What's this about the Gauntlet? I haven't run that in a long damn time."

"I warned you of the first duty of knight's in Arx, Uncle," says Rysen laughingly to Lawrence as Mikani pulls him away. He drinks the rest of his whiskey and says to Khanne, "I must also thank you, My Lady, for allowing Scout Rowenova to investigate Twilight Dale. Her senses may exceed those of wolves, and the information she has gathered is invaluable." Glancing toward Rukhnis and then the dance floor, Rysen says to Khanne, "I hope you will forgive me if I attempt to convince Rukhnis to join me on the dance floor?"

Liara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Drake checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Drake has joined the Dance Floor.

"I will owe you, I promise. I'm just--I'm not ready for a dance yet." Thea has her reasons. "Oh! And I don't have a pet giant,"Thea says looking over at Calypso. Taking a breath, she explains the bet,"We're actually going to run it. He's going to run it on purpose. If I do better, he's apparently going to design and buy me a gown. If he wins, I'm buying some piece of new armor." Did she mention he's willingly running the gauntlet?

Zoey laughs at the seat name and drops into a practiced curtsy when the song ends. "Very good then. I'll watch for your messenger. And thank you for the dance."

Stalling when the music changes, Alessia lifts her hand to Thea, though doesn't press the matter further. Instead, she heads over to the treat table, beaming at Rowenova. "Scout." She greets, before inclining her head to the others gathered.

Talwyn guides Sapphira towards the stands, helping her up and settled in the seat before he joins her, "Shall we start with a waltz celebrating friendship?" he turns and with a loud voice to the audience, to drum up the festive atmosphere

Alessia has left the Dance Floor.

Alessia has joined the Great Table.

Laughter warms Adrienne's voice. The moment she and Sabella are on the dance floor, she sweeps an arm around the smaller woman's waist and spins her onto the floor. "I would more expect to find a rubicund-laden unicorn on the dance floor than music you can't dance to, Sabella Grayson." Both women are evidentally comfortable in the performance, and Adrienne's aeterna gown is designed to shine on the dance floor.

After hearing her name, Nova flashes a smile to Rysen and Khanne before then smiling to Alessia, too. "Good to see you. Welcome to the Great Table."

Jules turns his attention back, the poor man has the attention of a stoat. It's probably his spirit animal or something. He looks to Svana and holds a hand out to her and says, "Should we dance since we missed the opportunity at the reception? I've nod had many opportunities for quite some while ... last year maybe? Then I'll content myself to find someone else who can stand me for a dance once and go forth till I've worn out our welcome?" He snickers.

"How have you been, Rukhnis?" Khanne asks before looking back to Rysen. "Oh, Scout Rowe is one of the finest I have ever known, truly. I am glad she was able to help... though I have not heard much on this trip? I do not think..." Dipping her head in understanding, she says to Rysen with a look towards Rukhnis. "Oh, of course. Enjoy yourselves."

Sapphira nods her agreement with Talwyn, strumming a sprightly chord upon her gittern as she stands poised upon her seat, "A good suggestion, your Highness. A waltz it is."

Lawrence smirks at Mikani, "I should hope not my Lady. That is far more dances than I think I have the health to manage." He looks in Rysen's Direction, "It seems you were not kidding." He says as the two dancing pass near him. "I have now danced more times than I have done other knightly things since I arrived.."

"I want to love shoes. But I grew up barefoot. I didn't have real shoes until I were nearly twelve years. I don't know how to match them so I'm always afraid I'll suffer for now reason." Irisa's taste for dresses is fine. But she probably had a lot of help there. The mention of looking for a beau for her, Irisa smiles a little, the look wry. "Good luck. I've been trying to look for awhile. It usually ends with me too busy and the guy too needy."

Zoey has joined the Gray Table.

After hearing what Khanne says of her, Rowenova cannot help but to smile more.

Calypso whistles low as Thea explains. "How drunk did you have to get him, to get him to agree to that?"

Mikani laughs, "My Lord ... part of being a knight is entertaining the other nobles at court with dance, song and tale so that we fund your adventures and armor." She teases softly. "Dancing is like money in the bank ..."

Sabella has left the Gray Table.

Adrienne has left the Gray Table.

Talwyn has left the Gray Table.

Drake takes Liara by the hand, and, with a light grip, he walks out to the dance floor with her. His ballroom dance skills are such that while he does nothing terribly complicated, he keeps good time with the music... and with her. After a moment, his hand around her back, they seem to be synced up quite naturally together. He leads, as he knows ettiqute demands, and he has enough confidence to make it work out for the both of them. He tilts his head toward her a little, saying, closer to her ear, "I feel as if I promised you I'd do this, did I not?"

"Ech. Yes, I hear that, actually, all of that," Kalani agrees with a laugh. "If it weren't for Peri's help, I'd never know what to wear to any of these things. Plus, when it's this cold? All I want is to wear something warm. This," she flicks a hand at her dress, "isn't warm. But it is pretty." She sips from her glass of wine, looking speculative, "You just need to find someone who is just as busy as you are but knows how to manage a schedule."

"We're talking about Olivian, correct?" Mihaly asks, peeking into the topic between Calypso and Thea. "From the few times I've met him, that likely had to been something of a task. Now I'm even more curious to seeing this Gauntlet run happen. What must be done."

Talwyn checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 8 higher.

"I have been well enough," Rukhnis replies to Khanne. "Simply busy with my work, which there is never any lack of." Not that she sounds remotely begrudging of all this work, but rather as if she's deeply satisfied by being worked to the bone and never having a moment's rest. When Rysen speaks about dancing he becomes the recipient of another somewhat flat look from Rukhnis, but it's leavened slightly with a trace of wry amusement, and the Eurusi woman merely sweeps up her skirts lightly with one hand, makes a graceful half-bow half-curtsy, and offers her arm for accompaniment.

Sabella twirls around the dance floor with Adrienne as if they were born knowing these steps, their swaying skirts making a pretty picture and hopefully not knocking too many people over as they weave around the rest of the dancers, "You never know," she replies to Adrienne with another laugh, "There's a unicorn ball coming up! Someone might show off their costume tonight just to try it out!"

Sapphira checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 29 higher.

Talwyn nods firmly and he quickly murmurs to the rest of the musicians, "A waltz it is - let's begin!" He holds his lute firmly in his hands, and his fingers dance across the strings, setting the starting pitch for the others to join in, "If anyone in the audiance wants to join us - please feel free to take out your instruments! Otherwise, do join in the dance!"

Thea grins at Mihaly and Calypso,"He wasn't drunk at all. Also--,"she lowers her voice and murmurs,"He, me and Lord Bedivere have also come with something called a Rum Run." Thea suggests to her cousin and Mihaly,"Maybe you should prod him and ask when he wants to run it. I haven't poked at him yet."

Lawrence smirks again at Mikani, "Well at least that will make me a rich man? Something I can beat Geralt at maybe."

"Possibly so," Liara replies to Drake, and then tacks on to that, "I tend to encourage most people to take a lesson or two in dancing if they can, and I rather like to think that no small number have consequently followed through." Liara moves with practised ease through the dance - a consequence of years of attending balls of all sorts - though she doesn't go out of her way to do anything complex.

"If you should have the time, I would be very grateful for your council on all that's past in the Dale, Vala," says Rysen to Khanne. He bows, and turning to Rukhnis, takes a step toward the dance floor. When she sweeps up her skirts and half-bow, half-curtsies, he slides an arm behind his back with a swish of his longcoat, and offers Rukhnis a knightly bow, before taking her arm and guiding her to the dance floor.

Rukhnis checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 37 higher.

Rysen checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Cillian has left the Great Table.

1 Crimson Blades Sergeant have been dismissed.

1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant have been dismissed.

1 Crimson Blades Private have been dismissed.

Akkar have been dismissed.

"Rum run." Calypso finishes the last of the drink in her glass and finds a surface to set the glass onto. "That sounds like a lot of fun. Excuse me a moment. I don't plan on doing a lot dancing tonight, but I need to make time for at least one."

Sapphira smiles brightly at the twirling couples on the floor, her hand fluttering over the strings of her lute to play a lovely melody that twines and complements Talwyn's lute. The difference in size of the otherwise similar instruments lends it a different pitch, her pick strumming out a deft rendition of the song.

"I am out of practice," Adrienne admits, her pale gaze sweeping over the floor and to the room beyond. The corner of her mouth curves with amusement at something - before she notices Drake and Liara's arrival and tilts her head in greeting. A waltz. Eyes narrowing, Adrienne slows her lead, shifting Sabella into lovely dance to the music of Talwyn, Sapphira, and their lucky bards. "A unicorn ball? In truth? I picked a terrible example."

Svana looks at Jules and nods her head, standing and offering her hand. "Please escort me, Master Jules. It would be my honor, so long as you can promise me that I do not look ridiculous in this dress, with an ugly scar in back and a bump in front," she says with a laugh.

"Mm. Of course, Lord Rysen," Khanne says before he sweeps Rukhnis off to the dance floor. After, she returns to her drink, fingertips once more toying with her necklace idly.

Zoey has left the Gray Table.

Jules checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 35 higher.

"I was going to ask you, but I figure you were already spoken for when it came to dancing." Mihaly smirks over at Calypso as she departs, turning back to Thea. "Sounds interesting, I'll have to ask him about the next time I see him. Or at the very least, mention it to Eirene, as she'll likely see him long before I will." Speaking of, he gives a quick glance, perhaps hoping she might've shown up. Ah well, nothing yet.

Svana checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

"Gods and spirits, the music is superb this evening," says Rysen to Rukhnis, glancing at Sapphira and Talwyn. "Even by the standards of the Bard's College it is something special."

Rysen is overheard praising Khanne: The soul of the Northlands and dressed in our finest fashions.

Cyril slips away from the Great Hall, returning to his business. He clicks and clacks his way out, humming the Bard's College tune.

3 Melaeris Justicar leaves, following Cyril.

Thea spies Lawrence amongst his family and offers him a wink. Told you old man Knight! She waves to Calypso and grins at Mihaly,"She's off to find Rowenova, probably to elbow everyone in her way." There's a knowing gling in her eye as she says this. "I should probably sneak into Uncle Olive's room later. I need to bribe the guards first of course, but I have some work to do in his room." What kind Thea? Huh?!

Jules takes Svana out to the dance floor and literally cuts a rug (and of course I'm misusing the term literally.) He gets out there sliding about with Svana, arms around her waist and while he typically moves about quickly, occasionally he slows down with the purpose to whisper something into her ear. He seems to be enjoying himself and only mildly aware of those present about him.

Rysen is overheard praising Rowenova: Wild animals come to her to learn about nature.

"I am very excited for it!" Sabella confirms with a nod, tilting her head just so in order to get the maximum sparkle off of her tiara, "It's going to benefit the Lodge of Petrichor, which did you know is not an actual Faith institution? It's a very confusing whole thing that I once stumbled onto because of a string of ridiculous circumstances that landed me in the office of my cousin within the House of Questions. I think if you asked ten people you'd get three answers about it, maybe more! But yes, I adore unicorns so I cannot wait to be able to pretend to be one for a night. I was once kissed by a unicorn, you know," she then turns to look at Liara and Drake, giving them a beaming smile, "Liara! I saw you from across the room and meant to make my way over and now here we are! Do you know Princess Adrienne?"

Mikani laughs, "I never had a sibling ... so I'm not sure how one wins at it ....." She laughs before they move past Rysen and Rukhnis. "Love ... I hope you save one dance for me ...." She teases Rysen before they move off again to the music. "Besides beating your brother, Lord Lawrence, what else do you like to do for fun?"

Calypso takes her time making her way in a circuit around the room towards the great table, affording herself the time to cast a look to the dance floor on her way there.

"Even a Knight can do well with a few social graces," Drake says to Liara, still keeping lead in the dance. "Or, perhaps, especially a knight. Would be a bore if I did nothing but fight all the time." He does notice Adrienne again, and give her a nod, as the couples sweep past each other. He puts his hand on the small of Liara's back as he dances with her, pulling her close, for the last pass around and a small twirl. Then introductions are made, and now he knows Adrienne's name as well. "Adrienne, is it? A pleasure."

Though there's the faintest hint of regret that passes through Rukhnis's eyes as she glides out onto the dance floor with Rysen, it's quickly replaced by an appreciative glimmer at the opening notes of the waltz that begin to fill the air, and she eases into the movement of the dance with a soft-footed sweep that follows her partner in the familiar patterns. There's an economy of motion in the way she traverses the floor, floating and elegant, and it's clear straight away that she's enjoy the feel of the waltz and being swept up in the music.

Her dance with Niklas over, Zoey gets a glass of wine from the refreshment table and finds a seat.

Svana seems quite happy to dance with Jules, letting him set the pace. She clings to his front and laughs at something he says, squeezing him around the waist while she dances easily with him. Finally she rests her head against his shoulder, closing her eyes a bit as she slows the dance down, only perking up when she wants to whisper something back to him.

Zoey has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

"Is dancing a requirement?" Michael asks aloud as Calypso speaks of needing to do at least one. "I'll wait awhile myself, I think. We shouldn't try to crowd the dancefloor up so early."

Talwyn does lean over to check that Sapphira has caught on to the music, and realised he needn't have worried, he gives a broad grin at her performance- when playing his music, the young Prince is truly most at east and without guard, so he just gives a thumbs-up and turns his attention to the dancers at the floor, "Looks like everyone is enjoying yourselves? Next up - we will have a playful Tango, with the music just so!" He nods to the rest of the musicians, and the tango music flows, with zest and flair

Hearing her name among the crowd, Rowenova flickers her cobalt blues in their kohl outlines toward Thea to whom she lets out a little laugh before then gratefully smiling Rysen's way. She soon spots Calypso on her way over here. "Alas, I think I am about to be dragged away." says she to the Great Table. Thus, she stands up from there.

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

A messenger arrives for Irisa and he bows for her. A very well dressed man with professional demeanor. It looks official. He offers the folded papers before stepping away. She takes it and reads it casually before looking back. "I need to take care of something, Lady Kalani. Thank you for keeping company." She dips her head and rises, striding for the door.

Sabella is overheard praising Jaenelle: The murder mystery event at Velenosa's Taste of Arx celebration was amazing!

Rowenova has left the Great Table.

Tolv blinks as Rowenova abruptly departs. He looks extraordinarily confused.

So Mihaly will watching Thea for a good couple of second, brow raised. Finishing his glass, he get his flask back out, looking to refill. "Alright, alright, I see what you did there. So, I'll bite since pretty sure you were leaving that out there for the purpose of me asking. I see what you did there." Putting the flask away, a hand then scratches at his beard. "So. Why are you going to have to break in his room without his guards knowing?"

Something about Sabella's conversational style leaves Adrienne looking windswept in ways not related to the music. She steers her royal charge back to Drake and Liara's vicinity with practiced skill and obvious comfort. She mirrors Drake's twirl before depositing Sabella safely with them. "I have not made the princess's acquaintence, though your reputation of course precedes you." She turns a curious, polite look to Drake. "May I ask your name, good sir? I was remarking to the duchess that your voice makes me miss home."

Lawrence notices the wink delivered his way and narrow his eyes. He looks back to Mikani, "Oh I am sure I will find something to do for fun. Worry not. This seems an awful busy." He steps back and bows to Mikani. "I think I have stolen enough of your attention. Let us see if you are indeed correct about my dance card. He points at Thea, "That one seems to be giving me the evil eye. I shall have to make her deal with my awful dancing."

Sapphira checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 30 higher.

Sabella is overheard praising Carita: Countess Carita's Taste of Arx celebration for Thrax was fantastic!

Sabella is overheard praising Cristoph: The snowball fight at Duke Cristoph's Taste of Arx event was legendary!

Calypso touches Rowenova's shoulder. "I have enough dignity not to -actually- drag you," she promises. "I was holding out for something with a little bit of a beat, but I think we're going to have to be content with gliding around and trying not to look bored. A waltz seems to be as spirited as the band are going to go, tonight."

Sabella is overheard praising Elgana: Princess Elgana spared no expense for the Taste of Arx celebration in Redrain's Ward and I don't think anyone will soon forget Prince Victus running around with a tankard on his head!

Irisa has left the Alcove By the Stairs.

Alessia is overheard praising Sabella.

Mikani spins out into a low curtsy. "Well then my Lord ... by all means ... may your dance card be full." She winks not saying the rest of the statement before she stands and moves to get herself something to drink.

Rysen grins at Mikani as she passes, nodding his assent to her words. The sweeping steps of his dance partner soon hold all of his attention. As the waltz fills the Great Hall of the Palace of Arx, amid many of the most notable peers and common folk of Arvum, Rysen smiles as he and Rukhnis dance. He says no words, but the glimmer in his grey eyes as he looks down on the graceful movements of his partner convey an unmistakable bliss.

Indeed, Rowenova certainly does abruptly depart the Great Table, cracking up after what Calypso says. "I always tell myself that they do better at playing their instruments than I ever could." She joins hands with Calypso before following along toward the dance floor.

Matteo, an eager knight's apprentice leaves, following Irisa.

Galatea has left the Green Table.

2 Pravus Honor Guard have been dismissed.

"Hello!" Liara greets Sabella, with a flash of a smile, after winding up the dance with Drake, complete with an elegant twirl that sets her skirts fluttering (not hair, though - that's very firmly pinned in place). Then she goes on to offer Adrienne an easy smile. "A pleasure to meet you, your highness. I hope you are enjoying the ball." She remarks to Sabella, "As far as the Lodge goes, well, gosh, that whole arrangement seems to mostly just confuse people."

Sapphira plays a twirling, effervescent waltz to compliment the whorls of the dancers upon the floor, drawing it to a melodic close before preparing herself for the next selection Talwyn announces. A small shift of her hands upon her instrument is done before she nods his way, letting him pick the selection once more.

Wulfrum has left the Green Table.

Wulfrum has joined the Shadowy Corner.

"Thank you for the dance, Princess Adrienne!" Sabella brushes some of her golden curls back, bouncing on her toes a little bit, "This is Lord Drake Wyrmguard! He's absolutely amazing if you need to win a sledding competition and you're rather drunk and can't say 'left.'" She nods then to Liara, grinning, "I think perhaps it is the name, although I think 'Dame Leola's Garden Club' would probably not bring in as many donations as 'the Lodge of Petrichor' might, so truly it is a good name."

"At this speed, is anyone really all that much better than anyone else?" Calypso asks Nova (probably) rhetorically, as she leads the other woman onto the dance floor. They're both wearing dresses, and Calypso is not an especially graceful dancer, but it's clear from the first moment that the duchess is just taking it for granted that between the two of them, she's the leader.

Rowenova has joined the Dance Floor.

Leaning forward a bit and then down as Jules dances slowly with Svana and says, "Looks like everything is in order from here but I'll look more carefully later." He continues moving about and is slowly shifting into a more serious expression on his face rather than that usual jovial expression he holds and continues to move along as he speaks softly to Svana.

Rukhnis looks lost in the melody and motion of the dance for a time, although something Rysen murmurs to her provokes a faintly pained look from the Eurusi woman along with a quiet snort. But she doesn't let that trouble the sure but swift passage of her feet that unsettles her skirts in a soft fluttering swish of shadow as she and her partner wind down the waltz.

Calypso has joined the Dance Floor.

Adrienne turns her head to study Sapphira and Talwyn before murmuring her agreement to Liara. "I had hoped to ride out to see it when the weather improves. Will its ambiguous owners permit a tresspasser?" Liara earns a polite curtesy from Adrienne. "It was my pleasure Sabella - and successful at breaking the logjam," she notes of the crowded dancefloor. Realization hits her abruptly with the belated introduction to the young Wyrmguard. "Of course. Lord Drake, please forgive my neglect. I have not recently been to Blancbier. Does the city find you well?"

Thea is quite comfortable on the couch, with her drink. She talks comfortably, the drinks finally starting to kick in. Thea's had quite a few after all. She just doesn't really know how many.

Rowenova checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Drake does have that Oathlands accent, right out of Blancbier, just from the sound of him. As he finishes the dance with Liara, he looks her in the eye again, smiles at her, and then, looks back at Adrienne. He would introduce himself, but Sabella does it so gracefully that all he has to do is smile, chuckling just a little at her comment about the sledding. And then he offers Adrienne his hand, now, to join the dance. "So you also clearly are from the Oathlands."

Svana holds her own as they shift into a waltz, stroking the back of Jules' neck while they dance. She notes the change of expression on his face and is quick to reassure him, smiling. "It's alright. Just think I might have bruised the bone a bit. We can sit in a moment - let's just enjoy the tango. I might want to snag Uncle Lawrence for a dance sometime tonight after all!" She says, giggling quietly.

Unfamiliar with the waltz, Rowenova easily accepts that Calyspo will lead, apparently fine with this. With one hand in that of the Duchess and then up upon the upper bicep of her, too, Rowenova briefly nods her ribbon-clad head for the ready signal to her dance partner.

Kalani has left the Alcove By the Stairs.

Slipping from the crowded room as well, Kalani even remembers to collect her handbag before she does so.

Accepting Drake's offer of a dance with a polite tilt of her chin, Adrienne clarifies gently, "Adrienne Valardin. Please, pardon me, your highnesses." Sliding easily into hold with him, Adrienne steals another look at the performers. "They are doing well."

Adrienne checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

"The land that the original Lodge of Petrichor is on is held directly by the Crown, and the land surrounding it is House Grayson's," Liara explains briefly to Adrienne. Then she offers Drake a light smile. "Thank you for the dance, my lord." After that, her attention goes back to Sabella. "And thank you for hosting all of this. I wasn't able to make it to quite as much as the last time, but this has been splendidly enjoyable."

When the waltz comes to and end, Rysen leads Rukhnis off the dance floor. He bows to her in courtly fashion, and his smile conveys the happiness and joy one feels at the opportunity to step outside the typical anxieties of life, and simply live in the moment.

Nodding to Svana, Jules whispers to her. He does hold her tightly, moves a few shallow dips and easy twirls for Svana, giving the occasional laugh softly but he's not whispering at this point. He's focused on the degree to let her be pushed and waiting for either the song to end or Svana to give her indication she's had enough.

Mikani sips her rum as she watches the dancers. She has a smile on her lips as she does so.

Mikani has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Zoey has left the Grayson Royal Couches.

Zoey has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Drake checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Calypso doesn't seem especially picky about dance steps; probably there's not a lot of call to learn or practice the waltz in the Lyceum. She keeps time reasonably well, and that dress of hers, thin silk glowing through lace, covers for a multitude of sins. She dips her head towards Nova, murmuring low to her while the two of them dance.

Rukhnis bows back to Rysen, a courtly mirror to his own motion, and then steps a little aside with a quiet sigh. Smoothing down her skirts rather absently, her eyes go back to the dance floor but her mind seems to have drifted off to somewhere else entirely now.

Lawrence offers his right hand to Thea, "A wink deserves a dance no?"

"You are welcome any time," Drake says to Liara, with a smile. And now with Adrienne, he also dances, though he clearly is an amatuer at the art compared to the Princess, and for a second, almost misses a step before he manages to catch up and get back in the lead.

Rysen makes his way over to the couches and offers a hand to Mikani. "May I have the next dance, My Lady?" he asks, smiling at his wife.

Svana takes in a breath and laughs when Jules dips her, in pure bliss as she really dances with her husband for the first time. She spins with him and twirls, then gives him a squeeze. "Let's rest a moment," she murmurs to him. "If they have some punch without liquor in it or cider or something, I would take it... if you would bring it?" She asks hopefully, gently leading him from the dance floor. "I wish I had not fallen on my arse," she mutters.

Talwyn strums his own lute - and leads the music into the melodic twists and turns of a tango music. His face now turns to Sapphira, "Lady Sapphira, will you do the honors of choosing our finale dance of the evening before we hand it back over to our College band?" he asks in a softer voice while playing his lute

Mikani smiles and takes his hand, "Of course." She says as she stands in a graceful movement. She moves her hand from his to his arm to be weald to the dance floor.

Lifting her glass to Lawrence, Thea just smiles,"It was more of a,'I told you so and I'm glad it appears things worked out for you." She is pretty content right now, but rises to her feet. "I have to head home. Have to--pick a few locks and bribe a few guards." Is she serious! Probably, as Calypso probably knows when Thea waves to her. Thea finishes her drink and bows her head or curties. Depending who she's around. A smile is offered as she goes to step toward the door.

Rysen checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Rowenova is from the North, clad in a dress that a Lycene noble once modeled, and she has no clue about what to do with the waltz, either, but seems to be fairly familiar with Calypso and the way that she dances, and so follows her well-timed steps and keeps up rather well, since the dance is slow enough. Though, she is no performer. Many waltz steps have a cross of one foot behind the other foot, and that is not something that Rowenova really knows to do. Thus, she straight struts!

Mikani checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Lawrence smirks at Thea, "Too bad. Perhaps next time then? Do have a good evening my lady." And with that he takes a seat to watch the dancers.

Zoey sits back at the couch, looking composed and sipping a glass of wine.

"You'll know Talwyn Valardrin, my cousin," Adrienne notes with a still gentle tone, gaze travelling to her lute-playing kin. "How is your Marquessa, my Lord? I have not had a chance to meet with her since arriving." A smile flits across her features. "Too many parties." Under Drake's lead, Adrienne all but floats across the dancefloor, technically precise if perhaps missing some theater.

Jules leads Svana to a seat before he wanders off to get her a drink but this does leave her alone momentarily in case anyone wanted to catch her without Jules around. He's merrily making his way off towards the drinks without much cause to look back once Svana is seated.

Thea has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Sabella steps back off the dance floor to lean against one of the tables, accepting another glass from a server with a murmured thanks. Her cheeks are flushed from the dancing and likely the heat generated from all the people here, but her eyes are as bright as her smile as she watches everyone conversing and dancing.

Sabella has joined the Green Table.

Having stared a little pensively off into space for a while, Rukhnis drifts herself across the hall with seeming aimlessness that nevertheless leads her over to an alcove, naturally one of the darker ones. She slips into it like a shadow rejoining her lost kin and goes back to actually watching the people in the hall rather than daydreaming.

Rukhnis has joined the Darkened Alcove.

Sapphira looks aside to Talwyn, speaking quietly to him, "If you might accompany me while I sing a short ballad, your Highness? I think it will be a nice finishing song."

Rysen leads Mikani to the dance floor, and with a few easy steps in time with the music, the couple are sweeping across its surface, enjoying the music and all the atmosphere of the evening.

"Ah, are you asking about Dominique? She's quite well, though she has the little one now to care for and much to do," Drake says. He's gotten caught up in the dance now, and puts his hand, as he did with Liara, right on the small of Adrienne's back. "Do you know her well?"

Rysen has joined the Dance Floor.

Mikani has left the Grayson Royal Couches.

Mikani has joined the Dance Floor.

Mikani moves with Rysen in her usual water like movements. She grins at him as she easily spins and twirls as he directs her to. Her steps are lively and her feet move effortlessly.

"Oh, that will be delightful!" Prince Talwyn replies, and as his lute brings the Tango to a gentle completion, he shifts it a little, and prepares, taking the lead from Sapphira, "I am ready."

Adrienne murmurs her agreement and considers her taller partner. "Yes, on visits to Blancbier or hers to Sanctum. I've always loved your home." Contentment radiates from Adrienne throughout her dance with Drake. "What would you recommend I do in Arx while I am here?"

Sapphira checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 33 higher.

Jules returns with a glass of cider and a peck on the cheek for Svana and says, "I hope you didn't have to wait too long Swan." He glances around then back to her, "These events are quite the chaos, aren't they? Funny how I never saw it before." He gives a laugh and sits next to her.

Jules has joined the Great Table.

Talwyn checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 65 higher.

As Mikani twirls into his arms, Rysen pulls her into a close intimate dance. Their feet glide of the dance floor as the truly magnificent music of Talwyn and Sapphira soars in the hall.

Sapphira starts to play a soft, tinkling melody upon her gittern, the music suiting her angelic, mezzo-soprano voice as she begins to sing, the tempo and her lyrics kept at a pleasant pace for dancing as her somg fills the room, "With how sad steps, oh moon, you climb the skies. How silently, and with how wan a face... What, may it be that even in that heavenly place, that busy archer tries his sharp arrows?"

Drake has spent enough time in Arx now to answer this well, giving Adrienne a little twirl around first... then bringing her just slightly closer... before he replies. "The Empyrean has lovely baths, the Golden Hart a beautiful garden, and the Salon is a good spot for more intimate discussion." He leans his head a little toward her ear. "But aside from that, I do hope some time you'll come by the training field to watch the Champions drill, as I do from time-to-time. Family duties have kept me away from there as of late but I will be back in training come spring."

Mikani stays pressed against Rysen as they dance. She murmurs to him softly as if everything else in the room just fades away for her.

Rowenova checked charm + leadership at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

As Sapphira starts to send the beautiful notes of her song soaring throughout the hall, Rukhnis's eyes grow distant again. She draws in a long breath and lets it back out again, slow and soft, a faint sound of regret even as she's clearly moved by the performance.

Adrienne adjusts to Drake's closer hold with absent-minded ease, her attention on the musicians as much as her partner. Multitasking is a skill, however, and she murmurs her thanks for the recommendations. "The Salon is hosting a discussion tomorrow, I believe. A reprieve from an exuberant week." The mention of the champions does draw twist of a smile from Adrienne. "With pleasure. Lady Zoey is joining me for some archery practice at the estate soon. I would not pretend, however, to compare my skills and yours. With what do you fight?"

Calypso gives Rowenova a single last twirl as their conversation begins drawing to a close.

Talwyn picks up the tune from Sapphira's playing and he breaks into a contented smile as he puts his lute to work on the music, the gentle tempo and rhythm resounding as he accompanies her song

Rowenova happily completes that final spin with Calypso, and still manages to do just that as a Northern laugh ultimately escapes her. She cheekily grins before they walk off the dance floor, hand in hand as per other dancers.

Calypso has left the Dance Floor.

Zoey looks up from her reverie when she hears her name and looks toward Adrienne. "Yes! Tea and target practice soon."

Rowenova has left the Dance Floor.

"A little fist, a little ax, but mostly, sword and spear," Drake says. "I would consider my specialty to be the joust. But in the coming weeks I'll once again be training blades exclusively. At least when I am not..." He turns Adrienne around again, and then gives a bow, as the song comes to a natural end. "Working on my dance moves."

"In that case, I'll make a point of it, as long as I'm in Arx at the time," Calypso promises to Rowenova. "For tonight, though, I need to get going. I need to get the name of whoever dragged me aunt away before he comes to his senses and goes into hiding."

Zephirine leaves, following Talwyn.

Sapphira pauses in her singing, filling that silence with her gentle, elegant melody. The notes rise and fall like the waves, the point of her pick dancing over the instruments strings and joining with Talwyn's music in a glittering duet redolent with beautiful melancholy before she lets her voice be heard again, "Sure, if those long-with-love acquainted eyes can judge of love, you feel a lover's case; I read it in your looks, your languished grace. To me, that feel the like, your state decries! Then, even of fellowship, oh moon, tell me, is constant love deemed there but want of wit? Are beauties there as proud as here?"

After giving Calypso one last squeeze of her hand, Rowenova lets go before deeply bowing then standing up once more. "Thank you, Duchess. I wish you the best of luck. Thank you for that dance."

Sabella steps over to Niklas after catching her breath, taking his hand and pulling him towards the dance floor, "Did you think I'd let you get away from this party before dancing with me?" She asks, twirling under one of his arms before stepping close, "It would be insulting not to dance to such beautiful music."

Sabella checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 52 higher.

Niklas checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 68 higher.

Adrienne snaps out of her reverie to catch Zoey's eye between spins and inclines her head in greeting. To Drake she offers a deep curtsey, charmed as she rises to yield the floor to Niklas and Sabella. "If you fight half as well as you dance, then I shall look forward to seeing your performances. Please give my love to Dominique - and thank you for the dance, Lord Wyrmguard."

As the beautiful music makes its final movements, Rysen steals a kiss from Mikani, and then leads her off the dance floor. The Crovane lord's grey eyes scan the hall, but the shadow-dwelling Rukhnis, in spite of her best efforts, is spotted, and Rysen moves to stand beside her.

Calypso gives Nova a casual wave and heads off, taking off her shoes as she steps out of the ballroom.

Rowenova has joined the Great Table.

Rowenova laughs quietly after having watched Calypso take off those shoes, then she meanders back to the Great Table and carefully sits herself on down.

"You are quite welcome. It was a pleasure to meet you and... I look forward to seeing you again." He gives Adrienne another smaller bow, then steps off the dance floor to get himself another drink.

Drake has left the Dance Floor.

Sapphira continues to strum along her gittern, singing the last verse of the ballad as she brings it to a close with a slow, shimmering accompaniment, "Do they above love to be loved, and yet those lovers scorn whom that love does possess? Do they call sincerity there ungratefulness, oh moon?" With that, she draws out a last few lingering chords, allowing the dancers to end gracefully before the other musicians take back over for those remaining.

Mikani steals the kiss back before they move from the dance floor. She then heads to speak to Zoey.

Mikani has left the Dance Floor.

Mikani has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Giving the room a sweeping look, Alessia squints. "Annnd she's left." She turns back to the table, lifting her bottle. "It was lovely sharing your company, messeres. Until next time." She smiles warmly, resting a hand on Rowenova's arm briefly, before departing.

Alessia has left the Great Table.

Adrienne is overheard praising Valardin.

Rukhnis's attention comes back to the here and now enough to notice Rysen noticing her from across the floor, and her gaze follows him as he makes his way over to her dimly lit alcove. "Are you satisfied with your dancing for the night, then?" she asks him when he joins her.

Svana is overheard praising Redrain.

Drake is overheard praising Valardin.

Relinquished and content for the moment to listen to Sapphira's song, Adrienne stands apart from the thinning crowds. It is an abrupt transition from movement to stillness. When the verse ends, Adrienne joins in applause. Pleased, Adrienne casts the room a look over her shoulder before also moving quietly for the entrance and a return to, one assumes, sanity.

"Only the most beautiful should, my love," says Niklas as he is lead out onto the dance floor. Is he talking about her? Is he talking about himself? It's anyone's guess! Either way once they hit the floor he twirls her before leading the way in a complicated step that sees the pair spinning gracefully around the floor, him laughing as they whisper in one anothers' ears between stomps made to the music, dancing the night away.