Darren has joined the Bear Table.

Donella has joined the Bear Table.

Vale, A Baby Arctic Fox, Pearl, A Baby Arctic Husky, 2 House Crovane Guards, Rose - A Pretty Red-haired Research Assistant, Llyr arrive, following Clara.

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

2 Acheron Red Guards arrives, following Ophne.

Brahm, a large iridescent plumed raven, Voss, an icy-eyed Northlands Malsatian arrive, following Morrighan.

Connal, a Northern Wolfhound arrives, following Rosalind.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Khanne.

The Great Hall is set for the feast, food and drink laid out for all. At the Bear Table sit Darren and Donella. The former, at least, is dressed for a Redrain party, the High Lord clad in leather and furs. He rises, waiting for those entering to take a chance to grab their drinks before he bangs on the table with a metal tankard. "Good evening!" he bellows, his voice rising above the rest. "Thank you all for attending!" he grins before he holds up a hand. "Before we get *too* far into our merriment for the evening, some business. Some of you may have heard that Princess Marian has been taken ill after an incident at dinner last night. To stifle any rumours - it is true, someone attempted to poison her. They have been caught, and are being dealt with as anyone that assaulted a member of this house should be. The princess herself is recuperating, and I'm sure she'd appreciate your well-wishes as and when you choose to send them! Now. If anyone has anything to bring before me, now is the time. And *then* we will eat and drink to our heart's content!" He sits then, and waits to see who comes first.

Rysen has joined the a red banquet table.

Clara has joined the Pass Out Couch.

Mikani has joined the a red banquet table.

Llyr has joined the Pass Out Couch.

Svana enters on Jules' arm, being escorted rather romantically by her husband. She's got a slightly green tint to her skin but she has made an effort to look decent for the event. As she sits down at one of the banquet tables, she glances to Jules to see if he had heard that particular news. She looks around for where to sit and smells the food - or tries not to smell it, as it is.

Volcica has joined the line.

Svana has joined the a red banquet table.

Better late than never, they say. Morrighan makes her way into the Great Hall, a physical representation of fire if there ever was one. It's in the fiery hues of her rubicund armor and fireweave cloak, the Lagoma flames of her earrings and charm worn about her neck, and other various accessories. She's pulling on a gauntlet, fingers idly flexing as the Sword of Farhaven makes her way towards one of the tables, cloak fluttering about her feet with each stride taken. There's a nod to those she knows upon walking by, and ultimately settles in a place close to Darren and Donella.

Asher has joined the a red banquet table.

Morrighan has joined the Bear Table.

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

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

Volcica has joined the Bear Table.

Rosalind hurries in decked in her black leathers and feathered cloak. Her red hair is flying behind her, thinking she's late,"I'm sorry, am I late!"excusing herself everywhere. "Pardon me. Sorry. Oops, was that your foot?! Apologies!" Eventually Rosalind thankfully finds a places to sit and smiles, waving at everyone,"Hi. Good evening,"her demeanor completely contagious as she settles. Kinda.

Rysen, Mikani and Lygeia are seated at the red banquet table in the Great Hall of the Redrain Villa. The lord wears a fur-trimmed black mantle, ceremonial half-plate armor, adorned with the black tree of House Crovane, and at his hip, are a peace-tied axe and longblade. Holding a tall wooden mug of ale, Rysen listens to Darren, and a dark look passes over his face when the Highlord mentions that someone recently attempted to poison Marian.

Rosalind has joined the a red banquet table.

Jules does nod his head at the mention of Marian's poisoning and looks to Svana, "She's fine, I was there briefly but Lady Zoey was actually the one that mentioned it. If I heard right, it was the Drowners but I have no idea why!" His tone more excited than loud, "But then, I know little enough about these things, might have just been chance." He looks around for a place to sit and waves to Rysen, Mikani, and Lygeia as he evalutes where he's heading.

Volcica walks in just in time to listen to Darren, glancing up to the High Lord as she first stops for a drink, and then makes her way to the table. She glances to everyone, offering each a little nod in greeting. She pauses, though, not sitting at the Bear table just yet.

Donella is very calmly quiet beside Darren. Her smile is in place but it's her normal polite smile, political, nothing really to confirm what she is thinking or feeling. Her deep blue eyes follow each person that enters, though every so often her head tips. It's clear that she's listening for the sound of little footsteps or tears. Her eyes move towards Darren when he speaks. A solemn nod about Marian is given as she watches the line.

Mikani smiles as Darien hands her a few missives than a whiskey. She murmurs something to the man before she takes her seat.

Arik has joined the Bear Table.

Jules has joined the a red banquet table.

Clara and Llyr are seated on the small couch. Clara is dressed in a summer dress of all things but it is a beautiful seasilk dress. She's likewise wearing a gold pendant with a carved turquoise seahorse, an exotic iridescite dolphin choker, and shark tooth bracelet. Her very long hair is loose around her shoulders. She quietly listens to what is going on around her but occassionally talkes quietly to Llyr at the couch as well.

Kritr wasn't consulted on the issue, but since Jules is talking about it he adds: "Duchess Malvici PUNCHED A MAN!" He approves, loudly, of punching assailants.

Khanne slinks in quietly, behind some others. If she were wearing umbra instead of white silk, her stealthiness would be improved, but, she tries to be inconspicuous and quiet as she finds a seat while everyone is talking.

Svana looks over at Clara's attire and blushes slightly, giving her a wink. She turns and waves over at Lady Volcica with a soft smile.

Khanne has joined the Bear Table.

Arik seems to be pretending not to notice the stealthy Khanne.

Darren tilts his head at the call from Kritr. "Well, I am glad to hear it, though it does not surprise me," he muses with a grin before he gestures to Volcica. "Lady Volcica, what business do you have to present?"

Turn in line: Volcica

Clad in burgundy and black, Ophne sweeps into the great hall. She moves to claim a seat at one of the tables, a nod offered to the familiar faces of Rysen and Mikani and the unfamiliar faces of those with whom she's not yet acquainted. As Darren begins speaking of the attempted poisoning, her eyebrows shoot up and her scowl deepens. "Was it the attempted poisoner she punched?" she asks of Kritr. "Sounds like he deserved more than that."

Following Clara in, Llyr could not be more the opposite of her, dressed for a winter day on the docks. After getting settled at a couch with her, he glances around, perhaps looking for someone specific among the fealty that are streaming in for the dinner.


Asher isn't late, exactly, but then... He's not required to be here. He merely slips into the hall, and heads for the first person he sees that he knows, that... Is also a commoner. It's Svana and Jules! So he'll sit near them, quietly. Until time comes to say anything.

Ophne has joined the a red banquet table.

Rysen nods to Jules, and raises his mug in greeting to Ophne. "I agree, My Lady," he says in response to her assessment of the poisoner and the puncher.

Rosalind blinks a bit at that,"She did what?" The tall redhead grins at that and asks,"She part northerner somewhere?" Rosa says though, chattering away,"Ive never met her. Maybe I should. Expand my horizons or something."

There is no subtle about the entrance of Brogan in his bearskins. He's made it time for Darrens announcement, as well as to make a beeline for alcohol. This is thwarted by the announcement of business first, then drinks later. There is an audible sigh of suffering before he cats eyes about to look about for familiar faces.

Volcica sits in one of the chairs beside Donella, taking a drink of her whiskey. There isn't long at all, before Darren's calling on her to rise again. "I have two matters to speak on, but they're both brief. The first, is that I intend to build a shrine dedicated to Lagoma and the spirits of fire, towards the north of my Houses' lands. A scout's returned with a suitable location, though it's occupied by hostile Abandoned. They kill and-or torture anyone who gets too close to their territory, so I've consulted with Lord Arik Halfshav on a plan to deal with them." She pauses, glancing to the man in question. "Once that's taken care of, I want to encourage anyone who wants to help with the shrine to reach out."

Kritr nods to Ophne. "Yup. It was the sexiest thing I ever saw."

Darren dips his head in acknowledgement of Volcica. "Thank you, Lady Volcica. Should anyone wish to assist, please reach out to her," he nods, before he looks to the room. "Does anyone else have any business to bring before the House, or should we move straight to shots?"

As he is looking around, Llyr speaks quietly with Clara. Upon seeing Brogan enter, He lifts his hand to get the mans attention. There is a flask in it, "Uncle Brogan. Care to join us?"

Arik has joined the line.

When Darren asks if there's any other business to bring up, Rysen's gaze flicks for a moment to Ophne.

Ophne has joined the line.

Kritr has already started with the food and drink, sticking with beer, but after a moment of looking around, he stands to be recognized by the High Seat as well.

Kritr has joined the line.

2 Halfshav skilled veteran guards arrives, following Brianna.

Jules was distracted, not on purpose but just naturally. He draws back to Kritr at his comment of Calypso and says, "The duchess once told me that she wouldn't marry anyone she'd not had a good fight with, it was how you knew you were really in love." He gives a smile, "Perhaps she's simply in love." He glances around then. At Svana's blush when looking at Clara, he looks over that way as well.

Turn in line: Arik

"Lord Arik," Darren calls next, leaning forwards to spy the Halfshav.

Arik gets up when Darren asks if there's any other business. "As some or all of you know there have been incidents on both the north and southern side of the Red Mountains between Farhaven, Stonedeep, Telmarch, and Cloudspine. The Oathlands have been working with some of the northern houses to find out what is where and if there is anything that can be done about it. If you happen to be strongly motivated to risk your life you can reach out to myself and I can have my retainer Row send you the notes thus far."

Brianna is totally fashionably late, right? Right? Moving slowly and accompanied by a young strawberry blonde boy, she finds a seat and asks a servant to bring her a plate. Recovering is hard work. And she likes bossing people around.

Brianna drops Caleb, ward of House Halfshav.

Amethyst - A Clever Raccoon arrives, delivering a message to Kritr before departing.

Khanne had procured a drink, but also came prepared as usual, with her flask at her hip. She gets to appear more civilized, however, drinking out of a proper glass (a rarity for her). Spotting Brogan, she smiles and gives a bit of a nod to him. Otherwise, she mostly just watches the people arrive, congregate, chatter, though she also greets her family members with small smiles.

As Brianna enters, Rysen glances in her direction and a smile touches his face. He places a fist over his heart in a subtle salute. Seeing Caleb in tow, causes Rysen to break out in a grin, but his attention soon turns to Arik when he begins to speak about the recent attacks.

Taking stock of faces, his attention turns towards his name. Brogan spots his nephew waving for his attention, or possibly spots th flask waving about. Either way it attains Llyr's intention and Brogan starts towards the couch. Along the way he gives a big grinned rapidly flailed arm waving greeting towards Khanne.

Donella stays silent for the most part beside Darren. Although, she does lean in to say something to him after Arik speaks. Then she offers, "I would be interested to hear what you've learned." Her voice is pleasant as she looks around to the others. For the most part, she's the stoic to Darren's awesomeness.

Brogan has joined the Pass Out Couch.

"Thank you, Lord Arik," Darren says with a dip of his head in agreement with Donella's words. He wastes no time in calling on the next person, perhaps he wants to get to those shots. "Lady Ophne?"

Turn in line: Ophne

Volcica has settled back into her seat, knocking back a bit of whiskey. She offers a small smile to Khanne as the Vala joins them, before speaking quietly to Arik.

Brianna has joined the Bear Table.

Ophne rises from her seat, nodding respectfully to Darren before turning her gaze to sweep over those gathered. "I am organizing a scouting expedition with the intention of uncovering more information about the attack on the shav village southwest of Stondeep. If anyone is interested in joining, please let me know. I'm also looking for a couple shamans or occultists to help protect against any dark influences."

Mikani sips her whiskey as she listens to those gathered. Her dark eyes take in the group.

"Thank you, Lady Ophne, might I suggest speaking to Duchess Khanne and Lord Mirk when you get the opportunity?" Darren says with a nod. "And it may link into Lord Arik's work as well," he adds, indicating the lord with his tankard. "Lord Kritr?" he calls next.

Rosalind is quick to lift her hand to Ophne, volunteering herself,"I'll go. If you know, if you don't mind. I promise I'm not a terrible scout and contrary to well--how loud I can be, I'm quiet when I need to be, and I like helping."

Mikani smiles, "I offered my services as well."

Kritr stands up and leans supports himself on the table with his fists. "Lord Riagnon Acheron, steward of Bear Forest has asked that the Spirit Walkers found a shrine in the forest in the hopes of settling whatever forces are at work there. Several individuals have offered their spiritual support in this endeavor, but the matter is by no means settled. I am coordinating the efforts on Lord Acheron's behalf, you can speak to me if you wish to contribute in any way." Having said as much in what might be mistaken for an angry tone of voice, he sits heavily back down again.

Rysen laughs softly when Rosalind speaks, though he does his best to suppress it.

"Thank you, I'll reach out to them," Ophne answers with an eager nod, settling back into her chair. Glancing toward Rosalind and Mikani, she offers a brief smile to each in turn. "I'd be glad to have you both join us." And then she's falling quiet, attention turning to Kritr as he speaks.

Rysen has joined the line.

Volcica watches Kritr as he speaks, perhaps catching his gaze and offering a little nod.

"Thank you, Lord Kritr," Darren says with a bow of his head. "Lord Rysen?" he calls next.

Turn in line: Kritr

Turn in line: Rysen

Tarik casual walks into the room, and offer a qick dip of his head to the nobles present before taking a seat.

Tarik has joined the a red banquet table.

Donella is silent beside Darren. This is just something she excels at obviously. Her eyes slide over towards Caleb and hold for a moment. There is a shake of her head at something, but it doesn't seem to be at the boy. She looks towards the next up as well. Perhaps a show of interest on her features.

"Thank you, Your Grace," says Rysen rising and bowing his head to Darren. "Lord Ian Kennex recently told me and Lady Ophne that there is reason to believe that twelve members of House Thornweave are headed into the Northlands towards Aviaron's Peak. In light of Lady Catalana's vision, and a possible invasion that could come from east, I wanted to ask those here assembled if Lord Ian's information can be verified, and whether a team might be called to investigate."

Asher seems to have just been watching, whispering at the table he sits at - to the other people seated there - and munching on bread. He certainly seems to have something to say, but... Only questions. And concerns.

Mikani sips more of her whiskey and eats some stew as she listens. "Not to call into question her vision ... does she have other information to back it up?"

"Eight." Kritr corrects. "According to Eirene Malvici, three of the thirteen Thornweaves were releasd from bondage to... whoever, and two more were slain. That leaves eight. She did not account for their whereabouts at the dinner."

Arik is about to speak then Mikani does and it seems perhaps he is reluctant with a slowly spoken, "There are many places in the Northlands that the Slaver would have interest in and many people too. Any House along the border should assume they are the goal of these Thornweavers and prepare accordingly."

Rosalind listens to Krit and the room now, drinking her whiskey, bread in hand.

Ophne leans forward in her chair, following the conversation with curious interest. Focus shifts to Kritr, a nod given in response. "Eight is better than twelve. Let's hope that number continues to get whittled down," she answers drily.

Clara rises to her feet and adds to what Rysen is saying. "It would seem that House Thornweave may be more of a problem yet. I've had two individuals come to me who have said they have had visions about the Thornweavers or Sylv'alfar. One believes they are a reincarnated Thornweaver an' the other believes they are at very least a reincarnated shape shifter of the Sylv'alfar. In addition, I've heard of one, possibly two others who have been having visions of the Thornweavers." She looks to Rysen. "I am happy to aid in any way I can in this matter. I am meeting with one or two of the individuals I've mentioned after dinner today with Lord Mirk. We might be able to learn something from what these people are seeing."

Rysen listens to Kritr and Arik with a troubled look on his face. He nods to his cousin when she finishes speaking.


"Aye," Asher adds to what Clara said, though he doesn't stand. "And a new Spellsong was sung. That Horned bastard is going to be attacking from his back foot. A cornered animal is at its most dangerous. Most desperate." But then, back to eating bread.

Cadern slinks in a little late. Probably sobering up though he has a bit of ink on his fingers he meanders towards Rosalind and then asks, "I miss anything good? Any witchfire?"

Rosalind gasps at Cadern, tugging him down into a chair,"Brother, come sit! Thornweave stuff and things!"her voice trying to be hushed. "And I offered to help Lady Ophne!"

Tarik leaves the table at the banquet to give Cadern a place to sit.

Tarik has left the a red banquet table.

Tarik has joined the Far Corner.

Darren frowns a little at the topic of conversation, though seems pleased that it's inspired people working together through bringing them all together. "Right!" he says as he rises back to his feet. "I think that's everyone. So *now* we can drink properly. I believe my *amazing, darling* wife has organised a bit of a competition," he says, waggling his eyebrows at her. "And talking of my wife." He turns to her properly then. "I have been honoured to have been married to this woman for six years. She has shown me that one does not need to be born of Redrain to have the strength of Redrain. She never ceases to surprise me, never ceases to challenge me. So. I toast my wife. To Princess Donella Redrain. TO THE LAST!" he bellows, lifting his tankard.

"To The Last!" Arik echoes the call with a lift of not a glass but a bottle of whiskey which has been claimed from an exasperated looking servant.

"To Princess Donella. To the Last!" toasts Rysen, clearing the rest of his ale mug.

Kritr responds by lifting his tankard, and then draining it. The beard catches his overflow.

"To the last," is offered quietly by Volcica, her drink raised to Donella before she finishes it.

Svana lifts up her glass of water and toasts.

Rosalind repeats echoes the same sentiments as everyone else, downing the rest of her glass.

Brianna raises her glass. "To the last!"

"To the last!" Joins in Brogan, raising a flask plucked away from Llyr.

"To the last!" Ophne raises her glass in toast before draining it.

"To the last!" exclaims Khanne, joining in the chorus with her glass of whiskey raised.

Asher seems to mumble the words as well, but drains his beer in tandem with the rest.

Mikani raises her glass, "To Donella... to the last!"

Even bereft of his flask, courtesy of his uncle, Llyr joins in the call, "To the Last!"

Clara raises her flask to join in with everyone else. "To the Last!"

Jules raises a nearby glass and says, "To the last."

Sir Floppington the Soulful Hound arrives, following Rowenova.

Donella does not outwardly react to the conversation at hand. She seems to just take it all in. When Darren talks, she looks up at him and her smile changes completely. For him, she just seems to melt into very obvious deep love for him. "Thank you." She says softly and then studies him. "Although, we cannot forget our wonderful and glorious High Lord. He that had a dad bod like no other. Or a pair of pants that reflect the light. And willingly sent his bear back to Farhaven when I refused to sleep with it." She raises her drink to him.

"Now for the drinks..." Donella nods to a few household retainers that move forward with padded gloves on. They bring out that chilled metal basin from the corner to the center of the room. It has the kind of cold that looks like one's bones will feel it and the skin will stick to the metal. "We have filled orbs with shots of Farhaven's Cold Shot. For those that do not know it is a very poetent drink. Best served cold. The idea is to see who can withstand the cold of the water, wrap their mouth around the orb, and then drink it. May the spirits be kind to your decisions."

Rowenova has joined the Far Corner.

Donella is overheard praising Darren: For being the man that has the best dad bod and the best bear to cuddle in the winter.

Fashionably late, Scout Rowenova and Sir Floppington speedily join what is the winner dinner of the Redrain fealty. They quickly scan the whole room, speeding deeper into it to the Far Corner!

Cadern considers Rosalind, "Help." He repeats dubiously but he smiles and he considers Rosalind and reaches past her for a whiskey bottle to join in the cheers and he smiles faintly at that and chuckles as shots come out. He lets out a low whistle at that. "Well seems I came for the right moment."

"Gods and spirits," laughs Rysen softly under his breath when Donella mentions Darren's dad bod.

Darren is overheard praising Donella: For putting up with me for six wonderful years, and bearing me four amazing children. For my wife.

Rosalind snickers at the mention of the dad bod and things and her mouth drops at the drink and eyes Rysen,"Drinking contest!" Those words for Cadern too.


Asher snorts rather loudly at 'dad bod', and then outright laughs once at sleeping with a bear.

Rysen glances at Rosalind, and scoffs, crossing his arms. "Suppose I should try it at least once," he says, grinning at Rosalind. He presses up from his seat, and laughs at something Mikani whispers to him.

Darren shakes his head at Donella as she mentions his dad bod, his expression deeply fond. "Anyway. Enough of the mushy stuff. Drinks for *all*!" he yells.

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

Svana has left the a red banquet table.

Of course, Nova happily assails Tarik with many hugs before she perks up, "Drinking contest?!"

Rysen checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Rysen checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Llyr has left the Pass Out Couch.

Rysen checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

Svana takes hold of Jules' and prepares to make a speedy exit. She smiles tiredly at Rowenova upon leaving, and veers to whisper something to Clara before she heads out.

Mikani follows Rysen. She's not bowing out of this contest

Jules has left the a red banquet table.

Mr. Hops leaves, following Jules.

Jules leaves, following Svana.

Rosalind checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Rosalind checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Rowenova checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Mikani checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Rowenova checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher. Rowenova rolled a critical!

Rowenova checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Ophne checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Ophne checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Mikani checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Ophne checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 10 lower.

Mikani checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Tarik checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

Rosalind checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Tarik checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Brogan checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Llyr has joined the Pass Out Couch.

Brogan checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Mikani checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 6 higher.

Asher checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Rysen makes his way over to the basin. He plunges his face in the frigid basin, drinks from the orb, and rises out of the basin with a horrific grimace on his face. "That is /foul/!" he gasps, laughing as he glances towards Donella.

Brogan checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Tarik checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

Tarik checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Clara checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 12 lower.

Kritr checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Tarik checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

1 Crimson Blades Sergeant, Rurik, a prodigal assistant, Aegis, a large red Oakhaven bloodhound arrive, following Mirk.

Clara checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Clara checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Asher checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

Asher checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Mikani laughs at Rysen's expression and she goes in after him. The cold water isn't so bad, isn't so good but she does manage get a glass of the foul liquid that she just grimaces as she drinks it down.

Llyr checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Llyr checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Darren checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Darren checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

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

Taking a quick break from the couch to participate in free exotic alcohol, Brogan dunks a hairy head into the water. He acheives an orb! likely something to do with the beard, and then he consumes it and looks pleased. "That has some oomph!" He looks about rather confused at the others. "Why are so many of you making faces?"

Darren checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Mirk has joined the Bear Table.

Brogan checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Brogan checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Llyr checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Asher checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 22 higher.

Asher checked stamina + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 7 higher. Asher rolled a critical!

Asher checked stamina + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 13 lower.

Brogan checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 10 higher.

Llyr checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 12 higher.

Still laughing, Rysen places his hand on Mikani's shoulder.

Darren goes for his turn at the shots, dipping his head into the water. He gets his shot, swallowing it down in one as he pumps his fists in the air, roaring. He ain't High Lord for nothin'.

Brogan checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Ophne puts on a brave face as she approaches the basin. She shudder as she submerges her face into the frigid water and emerges spluttering. Managing to down the drink, she begins coughing as she chokes out a protest. "That's AWFUL. YEUUUGH! Are we sure there's not a secondary poisoning plot happening today?" She stares at Brogan uncomprehendingly, slowly shaking her head at his ability to consume it without problem.

Llyr checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Llyr checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Brogan checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Brogan checked dexterity at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Llyr makes it past the first round at least, cold water not a real problem for the sailor, but on the second shot, he cannot keep the slippery orb to take the next shot, stepping back as being out.

Kritr dunks his head in the icy water and comes up smiling. "YEAH! Not as cold as I'D LIKE!" He did not however, drink anything. He's content to just continue on with his beer.

Swirling her glass of whiskey in her hand, Khanne smirks as she watches most of the others enjoy (?) a drinking game. She might often partake herself, but today, she seems to be sticking with whiskey. Her nose wrinkles slightly at the sounds and faces some of the contestants make. "I think I made a wise choice."

Pulling off her wolf pelt and direwolf cloak, Rowenova ultimately reveals her platinum hair tricked out in 21.5 pairs of colorful ribbons of varying wear. Carefully stashing her removed garments and her Messenger Bag with Sir Flop within the Far Corner, Nova happily saunters up to the drinking game. Then, the wolf scout happily slaps her fair face right down into the cold water before drawing down a cold shot (lickety split). After, she soon surfaces, pressing back damp strands of platinum hair. Once done, she wolfishly grins.

So dedicated to getting more of the potent unique shot, Brogan almost smacks his head into Llyrs. Muttering and grumbling he steps back. "I'm going to start losing reputation at this rate if I keep having bad luck at drinking"


Asher's turn to get some drink goes... Not well. He tries once, then twice, to dip his face in. "Gods, but that's sobering!" But on the third try, he manages to get in and grab an orb. "C-can't feel my face. Haven't even had any of it yet." But then? Then the drink. "...Strong stuff. Surprising I can still taste it." He goes back for two more, because at this point, who cares about his face? But... He's then heading for the fire, to keep himself - and his face - warm. "Definitely... Not trying that again."

Rysen checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Rysen grins at Ophne and then returns to the basin, eying it dubiously. He glances towards Mikani and then again to the basin. "Let's do this one more time..." He hesitates. "On second though, whiskey," he says laughing.

Rosalind SORT OF makes the the first round. Kinda. She manages a small drink of the cool alcohol and ah..she's somewhat standing. Not falling, though maybe a bit you know..not completely a straight line."Hey! This is great!"

Donella smiles at those that try it and then looks towards Darren when he does. She actually laughs at his antics. She, wisely(?) stays where she is sitting. The idea person, not jumping in just yet to that one. She nods her head and servers come around with shots on ice. "If anyone wants to drink them without actually diving for it." (Stamina + Survival at 30 -- +5 for every shot)

Rowenova has left the Far Corner.

Sir Floppington the Soulful Hound leaves, following Rowenova.

Sir Floppington the Soulful Hound arrives, following Rowenova.

Clara takes the shot and looks mortified. She must have an instant brain freeze because she is tilting her head forward and pinching the bridge of her nose. "Nope..." She says with a shake of her head. "Nope..." She chuckles a little. "Damn... instanta buzz..." She blinks watering eyes and leans back into the couch. "I'm with me cousin'... Stickin' to the whiskey... This shit is gonna kill me..." She takes a swig of whiskey from her flask before wiping tears from her face. "Oof..." She blinks a few times and looks to Llyr and Brogan to watch them participate in this contest.

Ophne smirks as she glances toward Rysen and Mikani. "I wonder if the second shot is easier because the first shot was such a disgusting shock to the system." She makes no move to head back to the basin, so it seems she's not going to be the one to test this theory. Arms folded over her chest, she turns to see how the others are faring.

Donella is overheard praising Rysen.

Donella is overheard praising Rosalind.

Donella is overheard praising Rowenova.

Donella is overheard praising Mikani.

Donella is overheard praising Ophne.

Donella is overheard praising Tarik.

Donella is overheard praising Brogan.

Darren checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 11 lower.

Donella is overheard praising Asher.

Donella is overheard praising Kritr.

"Not for me," laughs Rysen in response to Ophne. Having found a glass of whiskey, Rysen makes his way over to Mikani, and glances towards the dance floor. His fair skin is slightly flushed, and he fails to hide looking his wife up and down in her sheer black stockings and Selene-crafted gown. He throws back some of his whiskey and hands the glass to Lygeia. He takes a step back, and bows, sweeping his hand toward Mikani. "Care for a dance, My Lady?"

Donella is overheard praising Clara.

Darren grabs another of the shots that comes past on one of the trays, the High Lord downing this one as well before he fflops back into his seat with a loud sigh of contentment. "Gods and Spirits but this stuff is terrible," he says, clearly pleased by this.

Rowenova checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 49 higher.

When Rowenova gets back in line to dunk her head in the ice, Kritr follows suit, bringing along his beer. "Is that salt in the water? Salt water always seems colder than fresh water."

Kritr checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 76 higher. Kritr rolled a critical!

Tarik failed at his fist attempt at trying to get the drink. He laughs, "This is a lot harder than it looks.". After taking he takes a quick breathe, he dips his head and grabs a drink with his second attempt. Tarik downs the drink with ease, "Very nice."

Rosalind checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 3 higher.

Brogan checked stamina + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 0 higher.

Brogan checked stamina + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 48 higher.

Brogan checked stamina + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 3 lower.

Mikani grins and even flushed as her husband obviously looks her up and down. "I would love to My Lord." She takes his hand and lets him lead her to the dance floor for their first dance post pregnancy.

Rysen checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Donella checked stamina + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 22 lower.

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

Nova quickly shakes her perceptive noggin, "Not salt water. I would know!" Indeed, she so would! She happily cheers for Tarik before she again dunks for another shot which she swigs down with relative ease once more.

Rowenova checked stamina + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 17 higher.

Donella takes one of the shots when she doesn't have to put her face in the water. She coughs in the most polite manner and moves to wrap her arm through Darren. A comment is given to his ear. Normally, Donella can whisper, but this one is a bit less whisper. Thanks alcohol!

At the invitation to keep drinking the challnging spirit without diving for it, Brogan immediately steps up. Potent and painful tasting alcohol is a delicacy to the possibly deranged Nightgold. He just starts knocking them back, again and again... annnnd. Blink. Blink Blink. Brogan slowly looks around, he focuses on ophne a little. "It's not exactly disgusting, just.. wait why do you have three heads?" Brogan staggers to tip back onto the couch, and poor Llyr and Clara in the process.

Donella mutters, "... ... this stuff ... to be ... strong? I swear ... getting warm ... ... Can I take my ... off? ... you think they would notice? Or ... leggings? I should ... ... ..."

Rosalind obviously didn't learn her lesson the first time and dives in for another shot. She grins and downs it, taking it down her throat. Rosa stairs at Krit and Nova,"Holy hells!"her world getting a bit spinny.

Arik is drinking some whiskey from a bottle and suddenly goes *pffft* as he dribbles it all over his beard and coughs it back up for just... some reason, who knows.

Donella mutters, "What ... if I took something off of ... Most ..."

Taking Mikani's hand, Rysen walks over to the dance floor. He slides arms around her, and begins to step with her in a slow moving dance. The Crovane lord gazes into his wife's eyes, and smiles. "You move like a daughter of Jayus, My Lady."

Nova wheeze laughs around when Donella mutters.

Khanne's eyes slowly shift to look at Donella. Total side-eye.

Rowenova checked stamina + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 9 higher.


It's probably for the best that Asher's sitting with his near-frozen face to the fire. He can't then read Donella's lips, and he's not -trying- to hear what's said. But he catches enough that he snorts with laughter... Though that also makes him say 'ow' because his face moves which... He's getting the feeling back now. The more movement, the worse it is.

Arik begins coughing hoarsely with a *thunk* of the bottle down on the table top, head hanging as he slaps his hand against the wood trying to recover. Whiskey must have gone down the wrong pipe.

Kritr checked stamina + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 17 higher.

Darren is having a whispered conversation with Donella, the High Lord looking on the wrong side of tipsy to be having this conversation. He's giggling.

A concerned look is shot over from Scout Rowenova to Lord Arik. "LIVE!"

Mikani grins and kisses Rysen's cheek. "You speak with lips of honeyed words My Lord." She moves with fluid grace at Rysen's lead.

Mikani checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Clara acks! as Brogan tips over onto the pair of them but laughs as she pushes him off them and towards a seated position with them.

Kritr bursts into laughter after each dowsing of his head in the bucket, staring wide eyed at the gathering. He takes longer than most coming up, perhaps testing his mettle more with the cold than the alcohol.

After another dunk and drink of her own, Nova comes up still looking okay! "Another!" says she before going back in!

Rowenova checked stamina + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 12 higher.

Rosalind tugs on Cadern's hair,"Hey HEY!"the redhead practically shouts in her oldest brother's ear! "You didn't drink yet!"

Donella has a flahs of something /wicked/ to her eyes. She is most definitely hitting on her husband. There is no doubt between her body language and how she's talking. Then her fingers slides over his arm in that finger walk style. "You know.. I'm pretty certain that I'd be more than happy to review your dad bod. All night long. Just be in praise of it.." The words trail off as one of the guards clear his throat to let her know she said that in her outside voice. "Right." She winks at Darren. "Right.. So we should tell stories. I know I asked for tis before, but now that we have been drinking and continue to drink. Tell me your best lewd story. Make the High Lord blush."

Kritr checked stamina + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 3 higher.

Rosalind checked stamina + survival at difficulty 35, rolling 11 lower.

Kritr doesn't even leave the barrwl, waiting until Rowenova comes up from air and cheering that she can still stand another go. He runs a hand over the top of his head and tells his approval.

Rysen continues to dance with Mikani, laughing softly as Kritr seems to be enjoying dousing himself in the cold. Gazing back at his wife, Rysen says, "Thought I'd never have another moment like this one." His right hand surely doesn't slide below her lowerback, as he pulls her closer to his body.

Cadern grins at Rosalind and ruffles her hair, "Someone has to tell your story." He assures her with amusement watching people with their drinking. He then chuckles watching Arik go down with amusement.

"I'm impressed you've stomached one, let alone however many you've had now," Ophne calls in Rowenova's general direction as she watches the other woman continue to dunk-and-drink.

Arik comes back up with a flush face, apparently he's managed to breath again.

Tarik cheers Rowenova, "At least, I am not going to have to carry you to the Golden Hart."

Scoffing at Cadern, Rosalind turns to do her turn and slams her next shot down. Which well---doesn't go down as well as the last one. Well it goes down, but not back up, so that's good! There's a brief stumble and she plops her ass somewhere,"Ooof!"

"If anyone's going to make me blush, my love, it'll be you," Darren says with a grin to Donella. "I want to hear them all!" he calls, turning to the room at large.

Mikani winks as she is pressed against Rysen as they dance. "I knew you would. I fought hard for you to have it." Mika says simply and with her usual force of spirit behind her words. "I will always fight for you Rysen Crovane."

Nova pushes back errant strands of platinum hair from her drenched visage, which has obviously lost all its kohl eyeliner by now. She quickly flashes a broad grin after Krit's cheer and Ophne's praise. "Thank you so much!" Then, another glance to her liege lord to be sure that he is not dying back there. "Good!" Then, she looks back to Tarik and quickly kisses him with cold lips upon his dark cheek before dunking anew!

Rowenova checked stamina + survival at difficulty 50, rolling 9 lower.

Rysen checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 lower.

"Aye, better not be touchin' her. I'll have ta cut off somethin'." Clara threatens with a laugh. "We are glad ya approve of our union." She gives Llyr a smile and then goes back to trying to help Brogan settle into his seat. "Shit... almost time fer me ta head off. Got a meetin' with Mirk an' the mystery people I was talkin' about." Still for at least a little while she curls up with Llyr and tries to warm herself up.

Donella reaches up to wrap her hand around the back of Darren's head to run her nails through his hair. "Promise?" She lofts a dark brow at him. Then looks towards Mikani and Rysen. "Come dance with me. If you are nice I'll let you put your hands where you want." What? Are there other people? She's drunk and infatuated with her husband. Best. Anniversary. Ever.

Kritr levels a finger at Tarik and then points to his own cheek. "COLD ain't IT!" He crows. "Rowen. Nova. Rowen. Nova. Rowen. Nova." He chants as she dunks her head back into the water.

Despite the faith put into her, Nova fails to deliver. She comes up from the cold water and gasps deeply before slowly collapsing like wet spaghetti to the floor below with a drunken laugh!

Kritr checked stamina + survival at difficulty 50, rolling 21 higher.

Mikani checked stamina + survival at difficulty 50, rolling 31 lower.

Donella is overheard praising Kritr: That's how you drink!!

Asher is overheard praising Kritr.

Mikani is overheard praising Kritr: showing us all how to drink

Asher checked stamina + survival at difficulty 50, rolling 25 lower.

Mikani is overheard praising Rysen: making every dance feel like the best dance in the world

"Nah, the water was fine. It is trying to grab things with just your mouth." Tarik says to Kritr, before watching Nova fall to the ground. Tarik walks over and smiles, "My love, that was pretty impressive." Tarik kisses her on the forehead. "Are you going to be okay to iceskate, or do I need to take you home?"

Recalling a meeting she needs to be getting to, Ophne rises from her seat and moves toward the exit, calling a few farewells here and there as she goes. For what it's worth, her usual scowl has lessened into a relatively amused expression so it seems she's enjoyed herself.

Ophne has left the a red banquet table.

2 Acheron Red Guards leaves, following Ophne.

Rysen blushes furiously at Mikani's words, and pulls her into a close, intimate dance. He whispers something to her. They continue to dance, until Rysen moves Mikani into a dramatic dip, her duskstone hairpins flashing in the hall's light.

Rysen is overheard praising Donella: A magnificent hostess!

Nova wheeze laughs and double taps a clenched fist over her armored sternum (for some reason). Most likely, being drunk makes everything much more funny! Then, the forehead kiss from Tarik suddenly snaps her out of wheeze laughter, and she immediately focuses (or tries to) on Tarik with a lopsided grin. "Thank you! I will be okay. I just need food." She always needs food!

Rosalind unsteadily makes her way to the door,"I should uh..Go get stuff! Thanks for drinks and things!" She waves and smiles, shouting,"Stripping makes you cooler!" And with that, a flash of red hair is out the door!

Rosalind has left the a red banquet table.

Connal, a Northern Wolfhound leaves, following Rosalind.

Rysen is overheard praising Darren: Drinking to the last!

Arik begins to rise up from the bear table murmuring to Khanne and still a bit red faced from his brush with death!

Kritr plunges his head into the barrel one last time and swishes back and forth while holding his beer level in one hand. He straightens up again with delight. "What is this thing?" He asks about the orb he has found in the water.

Rysen is overheard praising Mikani: Partner in dancing, drinking and true love.

"Still in public, my love," Darren says, but he stands as well, offering a hand to Donella even as he sways on his feet. "What *did* you put in those shots...?"


A servant seems to be making the rounds with more drinks, and Asher - being the 'smart' guy that he is, thinks that drowning out the bitter taste of the Farhaven Cold Shots with other, less strong alcohol, is a good idea. So he grabs two shots, and downs them without thinking... And then the taste hits him. They were -also- Farhaven Cold Shots. He blinks a few times, then pushes himself to standing. "Well, that's it for me. Headed home. Fall asleep there." He at least knows his limit, and... when he's gone too far past it.

Asher has left the a red banquet table.

So drunk, Nova shouts over to Darren, "SO?"

Donella puts her hand in Darren's to attempt to stand up. She offers a helpless shrug to him. "It was something, I had people in Farhaven make." She gives another shrug. Then she will walk towards the dance floor with him. She doesn't keep the proper distance at all.

Khanne has left the Bear Table.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Khanne.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Khanne.

Mikani laughs at the deep dip but does it with grace and flair before she swings back up and continues to dance with Rysen. "We should leave."

Rysen checked strength + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

Clara has left the Pass Out Couch.

Brianna has left the Bear Table.

Rysen scoops Mikani into his arms and says to Darren and Donella, "Take care, Your Grace, Your Highness - and that you for your hospitality." Still carrying Mikani, the pair make their farewells to the Northlanders and leave the Redrain Villa heading east.

Llyr has left the Pass Out Couch.

Rysen has left the a red banquet table.

Mikani has left the a red banquet table.

Lygeia, a calligrapher and alchemist, Mikani leave, following Rysen.