Pomegranate, the gentle fainting goat have been dismissed.

Maple, a brown golden retriever have been dismissed.

Octavian, a silken spaniel have been dismissed.

Toffee, a fluffy pomeranian have been dismissed.

Truffle, an energetic mountain puppy have been dismissed.

Held on a warm spring evening on the cusp of summer, this is a fine night for people to mix and mingle out by the pool. It's a little chilly to do more than dip your feet, but if a person were desperately inclined to dive into it, they'd probably survive. There's a buffet table laid out with many savory dishes and servants are passing through the crowds, handing out drinks. There are no formal tables, just lots of smaller and more intimate places set up in an array of informal seating. Cristoph is working is way through the arriving guests, a glass of wine already in his hand as he makes with the hellos and how are yous. There's a gaggle of children running around as well, though they seem to be largely herded by nannies and cause no trouble at all.

People are encouraged to leave their pets in the stable area. There are nannies there too. For the pets.

2 Whitehawk Guards, Cabbit, a nub-tailed tabby cat arrive, following Bedivere.

Lord Bedivere Whitehawk shows up with Cabbit the Cat upon his right shoulder, doing so to obviously balance out the fact that he has no right hand.

Taffy, a sweet and gentle Mistward Labrador have been dismissed.

Alix, a young Oakhaven Shepherd arrives, following Kedehern.

Cristoph has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Someone, it seems, is confused. Kael arrives arm-in-arm with his wife, though his focus is yonder toward the main manse with a dark furrow of his brows. Vern, Kael's assistant, was moving behind them with a chipper attitude. Made all the more as Kael is offering forth a quiet, "I suppose there will be no need for notes," to him. Thus, Vern is dismissed and off to go enjoy the merriment of a proper Laurent party. Turning a sidelong look to his wife, he lifts a shoulder partially and offers forth, "Well, you never know." Because Kael? Kael was entirely expecting this to be a working dinner. First clue should have been the locale, second clue should have been the mix of people. Clearing his throat, a bow of delivered to Cristoph when he spies him. "My Liege," he greets, amiably. "Perhaps Reigna was right and we should have brought the children."

Kael has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Mal, a devious raccoon, Daegmund, an Oakhaven Shepherd, Sylvie, a bubbly Keaton huntsman in training, Carwyn, a Greenmarch War Elk, Brimbar, Spice the toddling otter pup arrive, following Shae.

Mabelle has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Reigna has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Having heard that the Laurent's were hosting a dinner party, there was no way that Dimitri was going to miss the opportunity to mix and mingle and he even managed to make it /before/ people actually started eating. Slipping into view after dismissing his guards and goat, the Prince tugs a little on the new frockcoat that he wears, gaze playing about the area as it takes in the layout and those that have already gathered.

Kedehern has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Shae has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Mabelle is where the sweets are. Cake is dinner. She left her floofs in the stables with the nannies, put on her newest gown and came to mingle with the family. She wiggles fingers to some familiar faces and collects a pastry,

Reigna takes jeweled stygian hair combs connected by jewel studded chains from jewelry.

Reigna takes stygian chandelier earrings set with peridot and emerald from jewelry.

Reigna takes wide silver cuff inlaid with seraphinite evergreens from jewelry.

Such resplendent weather and the summons for a Laurent-held party is enough to have the King of the Compact arrive fashionably on-time with an entourage of the King's Own and Sorrel. There seems to be quite a conundrum brewing between the pair, huddled close together, with their fingers woefully locked together in an intricately woven leather fingertrap. Alaric sports a well-humored expresssion, grinning regally as he uses his free hand to procure a glass of alcohol to arm himself with for proper greeting of the hosts. "Duke Laurent, hello! Aren't you a sight for fashion this day? You've truly retired the famed sock and slipper number? I was telling Princess Sorrel here that you may have been on to something genius."

Jael walks in arm in arm with Tyren. Her figure has gone from 'maybe ate too much ham' to 'definitely carrying a human in here' and she makes a beeline (haha) towards the buffet table, though she tosses off some smiles and waves on the way there.

Reigna is in full waddle. She is, in a word, huge. She is using Kael as a support structure, as she sways. Her skirts rustle, adding even more volume and making her look even more bottom-heavy. She's flushed, her hair up, sparkling with stygian and emeralds, as are the earrings that hang from her ears. She is glittering and smiling brightly as she looks up at her husband, "They are happy playing in the corral and terrorizing the goats." She's slightly out of breath, but she's grinning brightly. "Shall we say hello to Duke Cristoph?"

Quiet and graceful, Brigid enters not in armor nor littered in horse hair but in a dusky seasilk gown, offering a curve of a smile towards those she recognizes and a dip of dark umber head towards Cristoph before going to find a quiet corner to sit and inspect all those she doesn't yet know.

Brigid has joined the a cozy sofa nook.

Alaric has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Zoey has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Spotting the King has Dimitri arching a brow a touch, even as his lips to the hint of a smile, but when his gaze plays further upon the area, he's noting Mabelle over by the outdoor hearth and it's that direction that he makes his way. Drawing closer and noting the others, as well, there's a dip of his head towards them, even as he comes to offer up, "Well hello there! Quite the turnout here."

Kastelon greets Cristoph after coming into the garden, with a bow of his head, and presents a nearby servant with a courteous gift for the Laurents. He makes way for the king, nods to Reigna and Kael, and goes to look at the pool. Just look.

Tyren's got the baby with him. Well, /a/ baby with him. It's probably his and Jael's but who knows, it could be some random child he picked up along the way. Anyway, little Nora's peering about with her intent blue eyes while Tyren walks with his wife over to the buffet. "The gardens are very lively tonight," he murmurs to his wife in a largely neutral tone. "Do you want to sit with your brother?"

Zoey leaves her own dog with the dog-nannies before arriving at the Gardens. While familiar with the Laurent estate from her cousin Mabelle's various parties here, the place seems crowded with unfamiliar faces. She holds her head high as she quietly surveys her surroundings, listening for conversation that she might join in.

Kedehern enters the gardens along with Shae, one tiny Fortier in his arms, and another in his wife's. "Shall we take a seat over there, on the couch, dearest?" he asks to the woman at his side, and starting to head that way. "If you like, once we're seated, I can hand Kristoph over to you, and get plates for the both of us, yes?"

Dimitri has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

"The fingertrap was his idea. I'm not sure how I'm supposed to... Well, good evening, Duke Laurent. Thank you for letting my children be a terrible influence on yours. Please don't tell any of them that I'm here," Sorrel offers brightly to Cristoph as she lingers by the king's side, finagling a glass of wine with her own free hand. "But check out His Majesty's beard! Isn't it regal? I'm delighted."

Mabelle grins at Brigid as she enters, "Lady Moore, I'm glad you could join this evening", she gives her a warm smile, only semi distracted by the fact Alaric encourages the return of slippers. She gives him a curtsy but not her opinion, "Your Majesty, good evening". Nudging Dimitri who arrives at her side, "That is a very beautiful frock, shall I be worried for competition?". Her hands then beckon Kierlys from Shae, "I can hold her for a bit if she wont ruin my dress. Who's sparkly?", she cooes at the child and waves to Zoey too.

"Marquis and Marquessa Keaton! Oh yes, the children are around. You could still send for them to come. We have the nannies out in full force tonight. They're keeping them busy. I think the pony chariots will be trotted out in the stable yard," Cristoph says to Reigna and Kael with enthusiasm. When Alaric arrives, he does a quick double-take of the other man. Not because the King is here, no. But because he-- "Your Majesty, you look quite splendid tonight. The beard suits you." He's looking especially hard at the beard, but not so long that it becomes awkward. After a moment, he smiles brightly. "Thank you for coming! Hopefully I can grow one as wonderful someday. And yes, for now. I'll eventually think of some new fresh horror to spring on Princess Zara." A wave is given to Brigid and then Kastelon. "Princess Sorrel! Your children were wonderful. Eadric enjoyed the company. Don't worry, they're well guarded by nannies."

Bedivere has joined the a cozy sofa nook.

There's a quick curl of Dimitri's lips to a smile as he gives a little shake of his head towards her, "Thank you, though I'm fairly certain that you don't have to worry much about competition, Lady Mabelle." Turning a bit, he finds an empty spot upon the couch, "Hard to compete with your keen fashion sense." There's a glance about and upon spotting Zoey, he's lifting a hand to give a wave in her direction.

Bedivere slumps down onto a couch and Cabbit takes to the back of that couch.

3 Fidante House Guards, Santino arrive, following Calista.

"Oh look, ham!" Of course there's ham. The estate has been awash in ham. Jael piles a plate with abandon...not just ham but a lot of ham. At Tyren's query she narrows her eyes a little at the area where her brother is seated, then nods. "All right." Drawing nearer to the group, she squints at Alaric's beard, puzzled.

It was hard not to find Mabelle's grin infectious and so a smile is won from Brigid, then a glance towards Dimitri with an owlish widening of eyes before laughing," Oh Lady Mabelle, that one is going to deserve a cookie."

Reigna beams a smile to Cristoph though her expression turns thoughtful at the mention of the chariots. "Oh, gods. Aeryn will never forgive me if we do not send for him. Talis too. Vern! Could you be a dear and have the nurses bring the children? Oh! And have a few groomsmen bring Pickle, Deathhoof and --" Reigna turns to Kael and asks, "What is Kata's named now? Periwinkle?" She shakes her head and says, "Bring the ponies over too, please. But just the three. Brianne is still too young." When the king arrives, Reigna looks to him and blinks at the sight of the faux-beard over the real beard. She starts to laugh, a delighted, happy thing, "Your Majesty! Hello! Oh, cousin Sorrel! Wait -- your children are here too? Oh wonderful!" And then... then there is Jael, "JAEL! Look at you my dear!"

As Shae makes her way out to the gardens with Kedehern her gaze sweeps over them, taking in those who are already there. Smiling warmly as she nods to Kedehern, she heads for the couch near the outdoor hearth. Once seated, she nods, "Of course," and then Mabelle is asking to hold Keirlys, "We have a little blanket in case of such possibilities." Shae says to Mabelle, and in deed there was a little blanket over one of Shae's shoulders. Handing over Eirlys to Mabelle. And then taking Kristoph from Kedehern. Spying Reigna and Kael, she gives them both a wave, and smiles brightly to them.

"Oh look, ham," Tyren says mildly, though there's a bemused expression on his face as his wife piles up her plate. Nora makes grabby fingers, so he shifts her into one arm and plucks a tiny piece off for her to eat. "Like mother, like daughter," he murmurs pleasantly, before he chuckles and leads Jael over towards where Cristoph and the group is sitting.

"Right there, beloved," murmurs Kael, amused, with a tip of his head toward Cristoph. To be fair, he was hovering a little bit close, angled just right, and Reigna is indeed concentrating on staying on her feet. Which is probably why he sidesteps, slides his arms around his wife and takes some of her weight as best as he is able. "Pony chariots?" His brows lift in unison. "Excellent. We will send for the children at once, I" -- Reigna is on it! "Is *our* entertainment just as good?" He's on the cusp of saying more, but his manners do get to him. You know, other people going to greet the host. So he clasps Cristoph's upper arm and then is stepping out of the way. Catching sight of Shae, he up-chins toward his cousin and her family amiably before looking on.

Kastelon has joined the a cozy sofa nook.

Drake breezes into the crowded garden party. He usually comes to events like this for the food... if not for the ladies, so he does his rounds on priority, first getting a sandwich from the spread that's off to the side, and then getting a drink, and then, spying Mabelle as he had expected, heading in that general direction. He's done with the sandwich by the time he gets close enough to wave to her. Seeing Shae as well, he gives her a nod. "I think I had mentioned it before, but congratulations to you."

Kastelon continues to frown into the pool, for whatever reason, for a while. Then he retires to sit on a sofa. He draws a leather cord from his hair, shakes out the chestnut locks, and then ties the leather cord back in. Very fashionable.

Mabelle waves from afar to Reigna and Kael calling, "Good evening, Keatons", in an informal yet fond smile. She chuckles at Brigid and Dimitri, "He's a flatterer but he gets cookies from me all the time, so really, I worried he will get fat". Speaking of fat, Mabelle tilts her head at Jael which she has not seen in a while. Known to be a pit for cookies, tonight she is eating ham. She accepts the baby from Shae and pets her back, "Is Jael with child again?", she murmurs to Shae and worries, "I need to make a lot of toys". Confused about Drake's congratulations, she grins at him, "Oh its not my baby".

Alaric surrepetiously brings an arm up to brush the side of his magnificiently groomed beard that is a peculiar contrast to his blonde hair. "Isn't it, my lord? It was quite an intriguing gift, and Princess Sorrel thought it would be a fun addition to try and accessorize this evening." He tilts his head, angling a wry look toward Sorrel when he inadvertantly tugs his bound hand a touch too far from his companion. A turn of his attention, and he is raising his glass in salute to varied greetings angled his way. "Hello, hello! I trust you're doing well?" A pause, the arrival of the Keatons earning a slightly warmer grin. "Marquis Keaton, I know you're absolutely bursting with pride over there. Marquessa Keaton is positively glowing. Surely it's not much longer now?" And then, there's Jael. He grins ever wider. "Of course, cousin, you as well."

Letting his gaze play over towards Brigid, Dimitri is giving a laugh and a little incline of his head towards her, "Always deserving of cookies." There's a grin, then, and his gaze turns back over towards Mabelle, brow arching a touch as he gives a little shake of his head, "I hardly think I need to worry about getting fat. Trust me on that." There's a glance to the kidlet before he's letting his gaze turn back to survey the others that have gathered.

Drake chuckles at Mabelle. "Oh, I know. I was congratulating the Baroness," he says. "I know she's had quite an adventure." Drake flops down on the sofa, because there is still room there. He looks immediately relaxed. "To you," he says to Mabelle, "I came to apologize. I had intended to attend your birthday party, but I ended up being out on the water at the time, and you know how difficult it is to get around by boat these days. I thought I'd send a messenger, but remembered this was happening so I came by here instead."

Drake has joined the a cozy sofa nook.

Perhaps fashionably late, Duchess Calista Fidante, first cousin to Duke Cristoph Laurent is announced and escorted to the garden and pool where dinner has commenced. There are many faces here, many she recognizes and a few she has yet to become acquainted with. Finding the hostesses, Calista sweeps through to greet Cristoph then Mabelle. "Beloved cousins, what an exceptional turnout! It has been far too long since I've come to one of your dinners. I have been missing out." Alaric's presence is acknowledged with a bow of her head and polite curtsey. "Your majesty. Looking quite fetching as usual." The Fidante teases a touch.

And then Kedehern is on his way to get plates and food, and drink. He grins, happily, to the others he spies. "Your Majesty, Duke Cristoph, I hope the evenings bids you well?" Giving a wave to the various Keatons, and then a nod to Drake. Hearing Mabelle's words to Shae about Jael, he looks over his niece's way, curious, a tilt of his head. All the while, piling both plates high as can be.

Zoey waves to each Mabelle and Dimitri, her smile warming when she sees them. When she notices the king (and who could miss him with his guard?) she pauses and dips into a brief curtsey before him.

Sorrel promptly bumps into Alaric when he pulls his bound hand awkwardly in the wrong direction, dragging her bound hand with it, though she's quick to right herself and no harm is done. "Oh, cousin Reigna! Yes, my children are here. They've been with their salt parents, the Laurents, since the Thrax Estate was broken into. We felt it best to be certain that none of the Thrax children were targeted. And Lilah is an honorary Laurent, having been born at Artshall. But you remember. You delivered her." She manages to take a sip of her wine in spite of one of her hands being connected to Alaric's via a fancy leather fingertrap, even.

Apparently not having noticed the pondering Kastelon, as he settles in the sofa nook area does she check a brow at the stylistic adjusting of hair. A hand it raised to cover her mouth, eyes crinkling at the corners revealing she is hiding a grin. Peering closer towards the Keaton, " Oh good, no milk mustache this time." Is uttered in a loud, playful whisper before then flops a Drake, "Lord Drake."Is offered in the way of a greeting, " How is your brother?"

"Yes! I think there might even be some jousting for the children," Cristoph continues cheerfully to Kael, before amending to Reigna with reassurances, "But the sticks will be padded. And there will be a lot of supervision!" Kael's question elicits a burst of laughter. "We really do need to have another joust soon. That would be a grand time." He strokes his hand along the side of his face, clean shaven as it is. He's not a member of the beard club. "Calista!" he calls out when the Duchess Fidante turns up. "It's so good to see you again," delight pulls his smile wide. Kedehern's arrival in his vicinty is met with an arm thrown around his shoulder. "How goes it, new baron? New father? And to two of them. Congratulations, I haven't had the chance to speak to you personally."

Zoey has left the a rustic garden patio.

Zoey has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Jael pauses with her plate of food to peer at the King's double beard, and looks relieved when its dual nature is confirmed. "Thank you, your Majesty." She flickers a smile and then leads Tyren to an empty spot to settle with him and Nora. Her smile widens at Reigna's comment. "Look at YOU!"

Jael has joined the a rustic garden patio.

When Mabelle calls out to them, Kael is lifting a hand to return the wave and offer her a grin to go along with it. "I was going to bring notes, can you imagine?" Yet he is drawn, very swiftly, with his name spoken by the King. He bows then, much as he did for Cristoph except for a touch lower. In a feat of athletic ability, he keeps that steadying arm around Reigna. The result? A very serviceable, low bow, albeit not necessarily a proper one. He might be forgiven it though due to the fact that his voice is earnestly respectful as he rises. "Always, Your Majesty. Always. How could I not?" This? Punctuated by stolen kiss to Reigna's cheek. "You are well, I hope." Please excuse Kael, he is actually distracted from conversation from the king by jousting for the children. Pony chariot jousting. "Aeryn versus Eadric!" This is going to go so well.

Tyren has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Hearing Sorrel's comment about her children staying here explains a lot of running she heard lately. She nugdes Dimitri and assures Drake, "No need to apologize, but you owe me cake. I think that is only fair, isnt it?", she winks to him. Upon Kedehern's return she gives to baby back to him so she can go scoop Calista into a gentle hug, "Hello beautiful. It has been too long. Far far too long", she complains to her and remarks to Kael, "I'm still shocked you havent"

When Mabelle nudges him, Dimitri is giving a laugh and a little shake of his head, only to let his gaze shift to Zoey when she comes to join their spot, "Lady Zoey. Good to see you again." Then, his gaze is sliding over towards Drake and there's a curl of his lips to ag rin as he comes to offer up, "Cake seems to be a fair way to make an apology."

Drake is greeted with a warm smile, "Thank you, Lord Drake," she says brightly to him. At Mabelle's question about Jael, Shae looks her way. "Possibly," squinting a little as she watches her niece. Giving Jael a little wave as Shae juggles Kristoph a bit in her arms, to settle him properly. And then a smile is given to Brigid, "Baroness Moore, it is good to see you again. I hope things are going well at Acorn Hill." Spotting Kastelon, Shae gives him a friendly wave.

Reigna looks horrified at the baby-jousting, though Cristoph's reassurance does take the edge off. Kael's kiss to her cheek soothes her further. Alaric's compliment has a mild blush come to the demure marquessa's cheek -- though it is quite possible that is the result of Kael's kiss. Seeing the finger puzzle binding the King and Sorrel together, has Reigna's brows quirking, amusement and fascinating both. "How could I forget her arrival, cousin? It is tied for most memorable arrival with Princess Tikva's little one who I delivered on their front lawn." Reigna shakes her head and grins, though there is an undercurrent of worry, "I am so sorry to hear you do not feel safe to keep your children at home. That is awful." She turns, hearing her name and beams to Mabelle, "Lady Mabelle! You look beautiful!" She waves to Shae, offering her cousin a bright smile.

"Doing well, in his usual... less-social way," Drake says to Brigid, smiling at her. "I'll be sure to say Hello to him for you." He crosses his arms with a look at Dimitri. "Alas, I didn't bring cake." He looks at Mabelle again. "At any rate, she's the one that usually remembers to provide that sort of thing. I do have a gift for you, Lady Mabelle - but I didn't want to tie you down during your own party. Stop by later for it, or else I will."

"And you, your Highness," Zoey replies with a dip of her head to Dimitri. "Come to mingle for a bit, or are you a cousin I did not realize I had?"

There's a hearty chuckle from Kedehern to Cristoph, and he give the man a nod. "It's good, wonderful even," he announces. "Mind you, tiring, as well. If you want to conspire to give someone sleepless nights, give them and their spouse their own holding to manage, and a pair of twins at the same time," he shares. "Still, all in all, I'd not change anything. Every time I look into their cute little faces... Well, I still feel tired, but it's also all worth it, you know?" He glances back to his wife then, and "I have food and drink to bring to my wife, but we shall catch up again, shortly, I hope, yes?" and then he'd move to deliver the dinner to Shae!

Alaric passes his glass off to a servant, turning in toward Sorrel and their bound hands to puzzle at the contraption holding them captive together. He smoothly brings an arm high to coax her into a sudden spin, angling to bring her close without exacerbating the constrictive vice against their fingers. "Quite well," he promises Kael with an exuberant laugh, before he too is distracted by talk of pony jousting. "Surely it's not too late to call for the twins? They'd love to get in on this," he quips to the Laurents.

Regarding Drake for a moment, Dimitri is giving a laugh, "I might actually be worried if you happened to pull cake out of a pocket or what not." There's a quick grin given only for him to then let his gaze drift back over towards Zoey, "Mingle. I'm afraid that I have no relation. At least none that I know of."

Kastelon was just staring at Bedivere's cat on the sofa's, but when he sees Shae's wave, he lifts an arm to wave back at her. Then he stands up and goes over, as if considering her wave an invitation to approach.

Kastelon has left the a cozy sofa nook.

Kastelon has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Mabelle nudges Zoey amusedly, "Everyone is someone's cousin." Glancing at Jael, she teases Shae, "I feel like I'm being left behind. Perhaps I should start looking for a husband. One that will cause Cristoph as many gray hairs as possible", she is obviously joking. JOKING. "You look absolutely radiant, Marquessa", an announcement toward Reigna, squinting at her too, thinking to herself she is really behind. "Oooo a gift", she peers at Drake, "From you! I'm curious. I will come by later!"

It might still be too chilly to dip in the pool, but Eiran looks like he's seriously contemplating it. He peels his longing gaze away eventually to pick up some samples from the buffet, and chews on a stick of something sweet as he surveys seating options. The hearth seems welcoming enough. He greets Shae and Kedehern with a smiling nod, but it's Dimitri's fancy seawool that keeps his attention as he settles into a chair.

Cristoph gives Kedehern's shoulders another little shake, seemingly amused by hearing him use the word 'cute'. "Fatherhood suits you. I'll catch up with you later, enjoy the food." At Alaric's quip, he ducks his head and laughs. "Of course not! Please. If you'd like to send for the children, have them brought here. The children are having their own sort of party over at the stables." With the exception of children that are actually, definitely babies. He drains the rest of his wine glass, catches Mabelle's joke and laughs. Stealing a spoon from one of the tables, he rings it against his glass to signal the start of a little announcement or Cristoph Monologue, it'll be quick, promise.

Drake chuckles again at Dimitri's comment about the cake. Then, well, it's polite to introduce himself to an unfamiliar person, so he says, "Drake Wyrmguard, by the way. I don't believe we've met."

1 Templar Initiates, 3 Templar Knight guards arrive, following Cassandra.

Mabelle stares for a moment at Eiran as he CASUALLY sits down and eats. She almost squeaks but contains herself. Her grin widens with her amusement of his casual entry, rounding her eyes at him, "When did you get back to the city? Why was I not informed? I'm starting to call chamber hall meetings!" But lucky for Eiran, the chiding stops when Cristoph wants to make an announcement.

A nod of head, sending rebellious curls bounding loose, is given towards Shae before following it up with a smile,"It is good to see you as well and Acorn Hill continues to find sturdy ground. Congratulations to you as well for the new additions." A glance towards Kastelon, looking as if to say something further but then he is up and away, glancing towards the feline,"He's a dog person, don't take it personally." Attention dives towards Cristoph as the glass is tapped.

Sorrel spins as Alaric swirls her, dancing right into his arms and looking highly amused by it. "You should call for them. Someone would bring them for you," she says brightly. "They're in the right age bracket for this short army. It'd be delightful." She has managed to skillfully retain her wine glass without spilling any, and she sips it, a master of dancing and drinking at the same time.

Nearly dragged away from greeting Cristoph with a kiss to his cheek, Calista is scooped into a warm embrace by Mabelle. Her own laughter is light and lyrical. "It is good to see you, too." She says, her voice feigning a strain from the hug. "I am so overwhelmed here." She catches sight of Kedehern and his wife, Shae. The former being her uncle, her father's brother, not someone she is familiar with yet but greets them both with Lycene flair. "Many congratulations on the birth of your children. I.. Should I have brought Leandro and Celeste?" She's left her children home but news of activities for them has her second guessing this decision.

As his gaze plays about, Dimitri happens to notice the gaze from Eiran and there's an arch of his brow, even as he offers a little dip of his head in greeting, along with a quick wave. Then, he's looking back over towards Drake, smile on his lips, "Pleasure to meet you. Dimitri Velenosa."

Kael's attention is dancing from this person to that, but he stays well in the vicinity of his voice just in case she requires a supporting arm or to fetch refreshment. A certain amount of doting must occur as one dreams of the pony jousts of course. "Ooh," says the Marquis, his eyes brightening considerably. "We might have two on two races. There..." Ah, and Cristoph summons attention. A rueful smile is offered to Alaric, he dips his head low, then focuses in on Duke Laurent.

Zoey has left the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

As Cristoph prepares to launch into one of his epic speeches, Alaric gently coaxes Sorrel down into a seat upon the garden patio with him. A fresh glass of wine is pressed into his free hand, to which he is grateful for.

Eiran startles at Mabelle's squeak. "Few days ago. I'm sorry! I'll announce my arrival with trumpets and a goat parade next time," he grins, then quiets for Cristoph's announcement.

"Velenosa, ah," Drake says, and seems slightly surprised. "Friend of the Laurent family though I take it. I was only here to make sure I saw Mabelle, and then steal food and rudely slide away. Except... well, now I'm sitting down on the couch and I've lost all momentum, so, maybe I'll end up staying a while." It seems as if there might be an announcement, so, Drake pays Cristoph some heed.

Kedehern would give Eiran a wave in return, with a smile, and then he turns to Calista, giving her one as well. He might not know her well, but he was at least able to recognize another of his nieces, even if like Jael, their ages made it more like cousins. "Duchess Fidante, a pleasure to see you. It's been... Years, I think, hasn't it? And thank you, we're glad to have them," he offers to the congratulations.

Perhaps late, Cassandra arrives with a quiet countenance. There doesn't appear to be any rush to make herself known openly or really even be the sociable sort. She's just kind of watching her family. Like painting some kind of mental portrait solely for herself. Finding one of the empty table, she takes a seat. A rather comfortable, but subtle smile creeps across while she gets a chance to simply enjoy being in family's presence.

As Eiran makes his way over to the couch near the hearth, "Lord Eiran, it is wonderful to see you! Please pull up and seat, if you can." She says, with a smile to him. And then she is smiling back to Brigid. "Thank you, Baroness. I heard that your Lodge was finished as well." Shae says excitedly to Brigid. And then Calista is coming by to say hello! Shae gives her a warm, inviting smile, "Thank you, very much, Duchess" she replies, "I don't believe we have met yet, Baroness Shae Fortier," she offers with a bright, friendly smile to her. Laughing a touch as she overhears Eiran's comment to Mabelle. "Always should be a goat parade."

Kastelon realizes immediately after asking Shae a sober query that Cristoph is ringing a glass with a spoon, and so he looks that way.

"I'll try to only take up a moment of your time! I just wanted to take this moment to wish my fondest congratulations to Baroness and Baron Fortier, also known as Aunt Shae and Uncle Kedehern in this house. They've been wed, secured a land holding for themselves under House Laurent, and recently delivered two beautiful children." Cristoph gestures to the happy couple across the way. "And I could go on for a /very/ long time listing Lady Mabelle's accomplishments as well. But she just completed a large scale project known as the Tina Laurent Teaching Hospital. It's a spectacular work, that some of you here were a part of as well. So thank you, Lady Mabelle. And thank you, to everyone who took part." He lifts his chin and scans the crowd, gesturing to Eiran. "ALSO. Lord Eiran is back with us, a round of applause for him and his very nice cloak." And with that, he's done. Toast!

Sorrel has joined the a rustic garden patio.

"I happen to know the Lady Mabelle, so I figured that would give me an excuse to invade their dinner." That's offered and then followed with a nudge of Dimitri's elbow against Mabelle, lightly, "Though I probably won't tary overly long. I do have a couple of meetings in which to attend to in a little bit." He quiets then, glancing towards Cristoph as he speaks. At the request for applause, he's doing just that, clapping his hands a moment before dipping his head to Eiran once more before he's looking back to Mabelle, grin on his lips, "Congratulations."

Brigid, while not in possession of a drink just yet, brings battle hardened hands together in applause after the announcement.

"I would applaud, but both of my hands are full," Sorrel notes with a musical laugh as Alaric drags her to a seat, for she is still holding her wine glass. She lifts this in a toast, however, looking rather pleased.

Mabelle pecks Eiran's cheek and settles by him amusedly, "Goats or dogs, works for me. It is good to see you". She snickers silently at Drake, "I'm so hard to otherwise locate, but I am glad you came, you too Prince Dimitry". Cassandra's entry makes Mabelle panic a moment until she realize she is not, indeed, wearing shadowmeld. Woo. Dodged that one. Cristoph announcement makes her round her crystal eyes and turn fifty shade of crimson for the sudden attention, like she should not be used to it by now. She offers a bow of her head to her Duke in gratitude for his gratitude and teases Eiran, "Now they announce you".

"It has been years, Baron." Calista replies to Kedehern and finds herself amused. "Though technically I should call you Uncle. A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well Baroness Shae, now technically my aunt. I would love to host you both at the Fidante Villa soon. It always brings me great joy to be close to my Oathland roots." Cristoph rings his glass and Calista takes pause for the toast to which she lifts her glass with a soft 'here here!' to all the good news he delivers and seals this with a sip from a glass she's procured along the way.

Drake claps his hands at the announcement, then looks, first, at Mabelle again. "Congratulations to you on a job well done." And then, as Eiran was introduced and needs no further announcement, Drake at least takes note of him, nodding. "And good to meet you."

Jael raises a glass of juice at her brother's announcements, then applauds carefully against the stem and whoops loudly in approval. Then, catching sight of Cassandra, she full-arm waves at her. She does at least spare her sister the shouting of her name across the bustle of the gardens.

Kastelon claps a few times, looking towards Eiran. He also doesn't have a drink.

Kedehern looks suitable embarrased by the Duke's congratulations, but lifts his glass to the toast, just the same. "Indeed, Mabelle. It was a wonderful endeavor. Shae and I are happy we could be a part of it, and help." He looks to Duchess Calista then, and gives a nod of his head. "We'd be delighted to see the Fidante Villa, and spend more time with you, I'm sure," a smile on his lips. "Family ties are part of what makes us all stronger, after all."

Eiran can't actually join the crowded hearth, it turns out. But that doesn't stop him. He's just going to drag a chair over and sit on the very edge there, in the grass. He's balancing his plate and getting a kiss on the cheek from Mabelle when Cristoph mentions him (and his cloak), and his ears turn a shade pink. "Thank you!" Then, to Mabelle, "You've clearly been busy." And a nod to Drake! And maybe he actually sits down.

Drake has left the a cozy sofa nook.

Drake has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Reigna claps in recognition of those mentioned, blowing a kiss to Shae and smiling brightly to Kedehern. Spying Kastelon, she waves at him as well, though soon enough she's following Jael's wave towards Cassandra and bows her head to the Legate. Something that Jael says, draws a laugh from the heavily pregnant Reigna. She leans back in against Kael and briefly closes her eyes, looking happy.

Deftly balancing his glass upon his knee, Alaric utilizes his newly freed hand to emit a piercing whistle for Kedehern and Shae in the wake of Cristoph's announcement. "May House Fortier be prosperous and bountiful forever and always!" he calls, shifting within his seat.

Drake grabs a glass as glasses come by - he only has to lean forward slightly - and then raises that so that he can properly toast. Then he readjusts his seating position just in time to listen into other conversations.

Alaric is overheard praising Kedehern.

Alaric is overheard praising Shae.

Kael applauds, of course. A merry round of it, for each and every point listed off from Duke Laurent. Somehow he manages to refrain from offering a hoot of congratulations. Just barely. When Reigna's leaning back against him though he shifts positions, once more wrapping his arms about her. A few words are briefly murmured in her ear.

As much as she might try to stay out of notice, Jael certainly has a knack for picking out Cassandra when she's just trying to admire the scenery. But, it's Jay, and she is unable to not wave back, though her own is not nearly as animated as her sister's, her smile softening a bit more. And Reigna is given a nod in return. For moment, she leans back in her seat, seeming to just be quietly content watching the gathering unfold naturally.

And as soon as Cristoph spots Cassandra, he starts shouting her-- okay, no. He's not that terrible to loudly draw attention to her. But he does wave cheerfully, seeming to be in good spirits. With the little speech over, he finds himself a new drink and starts to make his way around the party with a bit more dedication, winding his way over to where Eiran has dragged a chair into the grass. He starts dragging his own chair. What? This is his house! He drops down into it. "I made sure to have your room turned out for dust and such-- aired out? I hope that you're settling in well. If you need anything, you'll let me know?"

Mabelle smiles fondly to Drake, "Thank you. Thank you. It was not my success alone", she indicates Shae, Brigid and Kedehern among others who assisted, "It is very touching to be able to express some recognition to my mother". Nudging Eiran amusedly, she notes, "I have to keep busy, there is no one to join me in bars to make Laurents look fun", she teases, raising her glass, "To the Fourtiers and their cute babies. And cute dogs. And cute everything", and there goes the rum.

"I do not think I have been around -this- many Laurents in one places at the same time in... ever." Calista confides in Mabelle. She blushes tenderly, embarrassed that she barely knows her cousins. "Agreed, family is everything." She tells Kedehern. She starts counting off cousins, aside from Cristoph and Mabelle, there is Jael, Cassandra, Eiran; who else. Her eyes dance among the throngs of attendees.

Oh no! Cristoph just called her 'Aunt Shae' in front over EVERYONE! There is an embarrassed chuckle, as she is blushing some. And gives a wave to everyone, "Thank you, Nephew!" She calls out to Cristoph, laughing a touch. "And yes, Well done Mabelle! The Hospital is true wonder and a great accomplishment!" Not really able to clap, as she was holding a baby. She settles for a, 'Huzzah!' instead for Mabelle. And Eiran! And then she is smiling toward Calista, "Oh that would be wonderful, I would love to get to know you more! Family is important, always. And getting to meet new family is always a wonderful thing." Shae says cheerfully to Calista. Noticing Kael and Reigna she smiles to them both and waves. Blowing kiss back to Reigna. And then there is the King! Shae gives a bow of here head to Alaric from where she is sitting with one of the babies, "Thank you, your Majesty!"

Sorrel shifts slightly where she's sitting half in the king's lap, one arm wrapped around her awkwardly as she is caught in a finger trap with Alaric. She calls, "Huzzah!" and lifts her wine and looks delighted with the party and the company in general.

Whatever it is that Kael murmurs to Reigna has a twofold effect. The first is a bright, bright peach-rose blush, and the second is a delighted laugh. She laughs long and hard, though she abruptly touches her rounded belly and says, "Stttttooop! I like this dress!" She continues to giggle however, even as she holds her stomach.

Alaric is overheard praising Cristoph.

Kedehern lifts a glass towards Alaric, and gives as much of a bow as he can, from where he sits. "My heartfelt thanks, Your Majesty. It's good to see you again. I think the last time was the Masquerade here, no?"

Mabelle grins at Cristoph, "Do not worry. I will spoil him. One way or another", she cackles at Eiran and collects Calista to her side, "Well you have many Laurent cousins, and we're all adorable. But I'm the prettiest", she stage whispers to her. "I could not have done with without you Shae, really, Really!", she means that.

Looking to Calista, "We'll have to make plans, then. A dinner perhaps, or just a pleasant afternoon and some drinks," nodding warmly to the woman.

Eiran feigns distress in Cristoph's direction. "I wrote some of my best work in the dust on the window! You /cleaned/ it?" He grins. "If I need anything... Hmm. My lucky quill snapped in half. I may or may not have stepped on it. I'll need a new one. It /must/ be lucky." His smile drifts to Mabelle.

Dimitri has left the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

2 House Velenosa Guards have been dismissed.

Sasha, a Velenosian Assistant have been dismissed.

Alaric inclines his head to Kedehern. "It very well may have been," he agrees. "Congratulations again to you and yours for the newest additions to your family." He reaches around Sorrel to try and comfortably adjust his hand, opining wryly, "This was such a terrible idea."

Cassandra sighs is mildly feigned resignation. Someone was going to drag her out from her spot eventually. Though perhaps not so quickly once she arrives. Standing, she'll move on over towards Jael, while returning Cristoph's wave with a polite one of her own. "I was hoping I wouldn't be noticed so quickly." she greets to Jay. "I was never very good at being stealthy. But. I wanted to make sure I said hello to family while I had the time."

Ah-hah, and when Reigna makes that announcement after such giggles? Kael is *quite* swift to say, "She is speaking to the babe there, *not* me." Mind you, this is absolutely a 'speak before thinking' moment for Kael and after a heartbeat or two to think about it, he might color a bit himself. His throat clears and he asks, "Refreshments, Reigna?" with a tip of his head to some lemonade. With her leave, he will go off to fetch.

Quietly sitting, watching the collection of familial ties with a smile does her ears perk up at her name, " Yes, but you put the entire thing together - wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for that savvy and dedicated nature of yours." With that said, does Brigid go back to being quietly speculative but looking content otherwise. A flickering glance of silvery sights towards Bedivere and the now kneading Cabbit is spared for a moment.

"I warned you! But no, it'll be fun. It'll be fun!" Sorrel complains to Alaric with a laugh, grinning in spite of herself. She shakes her head and has another sip of her wine.

"Oh, you didn't want them to clean the dust?" Cristoph returns, blinking a few times as if he's genuinely confused. Then there's a lengthy sigh and he reaches a hand up to the sky imploringly. "I'm going to need you to clearly label your dust the next time you write poetry on it. I'm afraid that otherwise we'll end up erasing years of your best literary work." He squints at Eiran when he says that he might have stepped on the quill. "/Must/ be lucky, ah. I'll see what I can do."

Leaning over Shae gently bumps Mabelle, "Well, it was my pleasure and honor, getting to help with the Hospital. You know, I never thought I would end up getting so into plants and farming, as I have, and loving it, as much as I do animals. But I suppose, in a way the two go together." A grin there. "And to think we have successfully managed to grow Frosthope!" Beaming now at Mabelle, and at Brigid, too!

"Cassie!" NOW she'll deplot the nickname. "I am so glad you stopped by." Jael gestures at a seat near her on the patio in invitation. "I've known you my entire life. Of course I can pick you out of a crowd."

That blush just gets brighter at Kael's explanation and she nods, "Yes, the baby!" When he gestures to the lemonade, Reigna nods emphatically, "That would be perfect, thank you, my love." She sighs happily and then looks to Sorrel and the King, eying that fingertrap again, "Now what on Aion is that contraption?"

Pausing a messenger arrives to deliver something to Dimitri, the Prince is giving a little wrinkle of his nose and it's accompanied by a shake of his head, "It would seem that I'm needed earlier then I anticipated." Offering a soft sigh, he's looking to Drake, "Pleasure to meet you" To Mabelle, he's giving a smile, "Until next time, Lady Mabelle." The others that had gathered around the hearth are given a smile and a polite incline of his head.

Drake nods to Dimitri, raising his glass for a farewell. "Good to meet you too as well."

Mabelle rises to offer Dimitri a peck on the cheek as the Lycene are habitual to, "Thank you for coming, I shall see you soon". She settles anew and listens entertainedly to the banter between Eiran and Cristoph about dust, "Goodness, they will think we have no maids", she murmurs to Calista with a grin. To Shae and Brigid she admits, "I'm still curious of the plants proprties. We should look more into it. I love doing things backwards. But onto to the new project, I will need your help again, Shae. And yours Eiran for the one after that. But I'm saving it all for the family meeting"

Calista links arms with Mabelle, just because, or maybe out of security. "I will have my assistant set up a few days and times and have them sent to your assistance to see if they are agreeable, Baron Kedehern." And she extends this to Shae as well. "I have two young children of my own. Not twins, but close enough. They would be absolutely delighted to meet more family, especially the babies. How are you settling into parenthood? Isn't it divine? Some of the best sleep I have ever had in my entire life. I see their darling faces in the morning and before I go to sleep. I would have ten more if I could." She gives Mabelle a little wink then. "I know how you Laurent like to do all the manual labor yourselves. Give it a little elbow grease and all of that." She teases.

5 King's Own Guardsmen, Tulip arrive, following Symonesse.

Tulip have been dismissed.

Eiran looks far too amused with himself. "I'm only teasing, I won't send you to find a /feather/," he insists to Cristoph, then perks up at Mabelle. "Oh? Projects? Whimsical projects?"

"Entirely fair." Cassandra nods. "You'll forgive me, I'm feeling rather nostalgic for family. Sir Norwood seems to have a habit to taking me on quite the adventures. I suppose I'm simply happy to see you. Everyone. The entire family. It's...been some time since I've seen so many of the family in one place." Her eyes scan across the family. "It is, well, so good to see. Takes me back to when we were all small. And some of us weren't even around yet."

A smile is offered towards Shae and Mabelle in kind, " I'm just glad that the soil worked and those snippets took to it so well! You did an excellent job in it's cultivation, it's a tricky herb. We can discuss some of it's properties if you like at another time, I have some notes on it." A glance towards Eiran at his excitement of a potential whimsical project, a blink is given then a chuckle.

"We have servants!" Cristoph offers to the area at large, when he hears Mabelle suggest people will think they don't have maids. "We just don't always send them into certain rooms for... certain reasons. Which are... very important." There's a grimacing smile before he chuckles and takes a long drink from his glass. He stands up, abandoning the chair that he just dragged over onto the grass. His path takes him over to Cassandra now, "Sister. I'm glad that you were able to make it! Quite crowded tonight. How are you?"

Mabelle agrees with Calista, "I am terrible at tellling people what to do", LIES. "Define Whimsical, cousin", she asks Eiran, "I'm a very serious person", she winks at Brigid. More lies. "Shae would love to learn more about it. We should hold a super secret meeting which we now announce in public and study it". Mabelle then informs Cristoph, "I think mine either resigned or got lost in my wardrobe, Cousin". Sighs at the lies.

Kael ensures that there is some sort of seating available (a chair that he can drag over, a bench, maybe even dragging a sofa over though worry not, he does not actually try to pull a sofa with people over) before he abandons Reigna. Yes, he dotes. He makes sure that she is settled, comfortable, and then he is off in search of lemonade. It does not take him terribly long, though he is slightly delayed by for a lovely assortment of finger foods, and this is presented like the prize it is.

Symonesse Grayson arrives with her usual guards but without the cow that has become a constant fixture on her evening strolls through the city. Some claim that have even seen the Queen on the beach and night, wading with the cow in the seaspray. Tonight, it is just her and the guards. Once in the garden, she takes a moment to gaze about, her golden eyes bright as she takes in the crowd and begins to meander through it, probably looking for where the sweets are. These parties always have sweets, right?

Jael stands to hug Cassandra and kiss her lightly on both cheeks. "That was terrifying, wasn't it. My arrow just broke against nothing." She scoots a couple of steps to one side to let Cristoph into the sibling circle.

Reigna claps delightedly at the rrival of Kael's bounty, having fully settled onto the chair. Her belly is round as a beach ball but this does not stop her from trying to lean up to kiss her husband. "Thank you! I had no idea that I was starving until I saw that plate, husband you. are. the. BEST." She takes the glass of lemonade and steals a small meatball from the plate. "Thank you thank you thank y-- OOOH! The Queen!"

"A clever little source of endless frustration," Alaric informs Reigna, his tone deceptively delightful and carefree. "You see, Princess Sorrel likes to mess in my things and squee and laugh about it, so this was the start of a joke on her that became a mutual punishment." He casually pushes his finger in, loosening the snug leather until he can work it free, then Sorrel's. "Now, wouldn't you like to try it, my lady? My lord?" He's shameless in baiting other people to endure his torment.

There is a touch of a warm laugh as Shae listens to Calista. "Kedehern keeps telling me to let the nurses do their jobs, but I have to admit, I'm too excited to let them, or perhaps just wanting to do it all." A touch of a sheepish smile there. "But yes, we will look over the dates and times, and get back to you." And then to Brigid and Mabelle Shae nods, "Oh yes, I would love to learn more about them, I had been thinking I would do that once, I was a little less busy. I have a socuting party to lead through the southern parts of the Oathlands, perhaps after that. Or maybe after I get back from trying to find Brightshore with Princess Lou." Shae suggests. Coming to a pause as the Symonesse enters the gardens, watching her with warm curiosity. Having never really seen her before, or even met her. A hand touching Kedehern's arm for a moment.

"Shae would love to learn more of what now?" Kedehern asks, perhaps momentarily distracted by the hearty portions of food, he was downing. And then he looks up, and is blinking. That's the Queen, he's fairly certain. He swallows his food, and tries to sit up a bit more, before he's about to lean over and whisper to his wife, but... Well, Reigna makes the annoucncement, it seems.

With the sudden appearance of the Queen, Brigid doesn't know what to do with herself and so she stands in a flow of gown, dipping into a polite bow and then flashing a charmed smile, " Evening, your Majesty." If the King was here? Clearly Brigid didn't know it as she'd never met the man but the Queen looking like a radiant moon slice? This one she had met.

Drake saw the King was here already, and now the Queen is also here. But he doesn't actually sit up any straighter, because he's got a perfect slouch going on and doesn't want to ruin it. He does raise his wine glass, however, in her general direction as she's passing by. And she's headed right for the food, after all, which only makes sense to Drake.

Mabelle answers Kedehern, "Frosthope", she then rises to curtsy to Symonesse. She is still holding a plate with sweets piled so high, she might as well held a sign saying CAKE , HERE. "Your Majesty, good evening", she smiles fondly to the queen, lamenting having kept her dogs in the stables.

Eiran becomes completely caught up on defining /whimsy/, tuning everything out to sit there bent over his plate with his peppermint stick poised like a quill. But then a spot opens up, up on the red stone of the hearth, and he scrambles to haul his chair over and sit among his aunt and uncle.

Eiran has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Kastelon looks towards Symonesse as everyone else does, and then his gaze moves on to Alaric. He rises to offer a mute bow, then settles again to drink his milk and nod to Shae with gratitude at something quietly stated.

When Reigna calls her out, Symonesse freezes as if she's been caught doing something, turns toward the source of the sound and, upon spotting Reigna, gives her a little wave and calls out, "I'll be by to see you after I find the cake!" Brigid gets an absolutely radiant smile as she says with real warmth, "You look lovely. Are you enjoying the party?" The whole time she is talking and smiling in greeting to those that she passes, the Queen is also zeroing in on cake, with Mabelle as a helpful guidepost to where it might be found.

"Of course, Reigna," murmurs Kael, quite satisfied - and maybe with a little bit of chestpuffery to go along with it. It is after all the small things. His wife's delight yonder though has him lift his gaze, look across the expanse and mark the path of the Queen. As he did with the King, he bows low and deep, albeit this time he is not trying to balance his pregnant wife in one arm so he's far more presentable. When he rises he shifts his attention back to Alaric, or rather that little leather contraption. With a quirk of his brow, he glances sidelong to Reigna. "What say you?"

"To say that my faith was not tested would be a lie." Cassandra nods. "Thankfully, the Carnifex had wisdom to share considering his own similar exploits. I wanted as much knowledge as possible for any kind of contingency. But the Gloria, the Goddess does not abandon the faithful." There's a glance between her siblings. "Cris, it's good to see you. See everyone. There are times in my life where I am truly reminded how blessed I have been to have such a family. It is nice to simply...watch. Even if from afar." Reaching into her belt, she plucks out something small that fits into her hand.

It is difficult to ignore Reigna's announcement and suddenly all eyes seem to turn that way. At Symonesse's arrival, Calista dips into a polite and practiced curtsey with a respectful bow of her head. "My Queen." She greets, the words soft upon her lips before returning to the conversation at hand. She turns her full radiant smile upon new mother, Shae, and nods with understanding. "But you will need your rest as well, in order to be fresh and vibrant in the morning. Their assistance is paramount."

Sorrel is freed, and she laughs brightly and takes another sip of her wine. "I don't necessarily recommend trying it. But you know, sometimes I have to play to the bard stereotype and stick my fingers where they don't belong," she says brightly.

Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting, Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting, 2 Grayson House Guards, Clark, an exasperated guard arrive, following Sabella.

"I don't think I fully appreciated how serious Norwood was about certain things. I probably should have known better," Cristoph muses outloud, a thoughtful expression before he takes a long drink from the glass. When she goes on about how good it is to see everyone, his smile returns and he quickly offers her a hug before it can be prevented. Or before he can be tackled. He remembers the snowball incident. His little discussion with his sisters means that he misses the Queen's initial entrance. But the murmuring of the party goers attracts his attention and he turns in that direction, dipping into an appropriate bow. "Your Grace," he offers to her whenever Symonesse passes them. "Welcome to our home."

With a quick snap of her fingers, Cupcake the cookie girl rushes over to fill a large plate with all the sweets available tonight, and there is an array because, well. She moves quickly to Symonesse's side, ordered to stand there until she is shooed.

Thankfully for Mabelle, she has a cute baby to fuss over, and Shae's dogs. And a baby otter. Cause Shae didn't even think of putting her animal friends away... but there is the Queen, and Shae is a touch speechless as Symonesse greets Brigid, nearby her. Which makes Shae move to her feet, one baby in her arms, to curtsy to the Symonesse. "Your Majesty, it is truly an honor," Shae says brightly, smiling up at her, a bit in awe of her really.

The King is made aware of Symonesse's stealthy mission for the party sweets by way of echoing calls and startled looks toward her person. He is in no rush to intervene, though his pale gaze does linger upon her with a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "If you find something delicious, I hope you intend to share," he calls, before looking aside to Reigna and Kael with an affable grin. "Here, you should do it before the creeping doubt makes you second guess your decision."

"She protected us that day," Jael says with solemnity, then leans in to look at what's in Cassandra's hand. A fingertip reaches for it. "Ohhhh..." It's breathed out, then she hears her brother call a greeting to the Queen and looks up. The color absolutely drains from her face, though she manages a deep curtsy. But as soon as she's able, she mumbles, "I should go," and she does. Hastily. Dragging Tyren with her.

Jael has left the a rustic garden patio.

Tyren has left the a rustic garden patio.

Gavin, an enthusiastic scribe, Bumble, an adorable bearded puppy leave, following Tyren.

Nadine, Persimmon, the darling fainting goat, Tyren leave, following Jael.

Beaming, Brigid can only nod her head in answer as the Queen goes in search of cake then lowers herself back down to continue sitting quietly. Glancing to address Shae, "I completely understand that - I'm having trouble finding the time as well, other things keep pulling me all over. But, once the world settles then we can discuss such things." Because poor Kastelon was sitting next to Shae, a look was given to the taciturn huntsman as he sipped his milk.

Reigna beams up at Kael, and then blinks at the Queen's words, lifting a hand to point at herself, "Me?" Her brows lift and she smiles again, all bright and cheerful. The King's offer draws her attention back to Alaric and Sorrel, and looking up to Kael she laughs and says, "You are already stuck with me forever, my lord. But! If you should like to try it?" She offers a finger, looking between Kael and Alaric.

Symonesse definitely stops to greet the hosts of the party. She might be wanting cake, but she is definitely not -rude-. She pauses and gives Cristoph and his siblings a bright smile as she says, "It is lovely. I apologize for coming without a direct invitation, but I asked after Alaric and was told he was a party with cake -and- swimming and he never even -told- me. So, I just decided to show up and hope that you'd all forgive me." Then there is Cupcake with the much desired sweets, which proves a distraction, but nothing can distract her when Shae approaches with a baby. The Queen's golden eyes widen a little and she says softly, "Well hello, darling." Jael's quick departure leaves her briefly puzzled before she reaches a hand out for the baby to grasp should it want to.

Kedehern rises to his feet as well, and would give a bow to the Queen, himself. All very proper, and Oathlands of him, of course. "Your Majesty," Kedehern states, in a sonorous voice. "Might I suggest the red velvet? I'm told it's particularly delicious, this evening."

Kastelon raises his milk glass in a small toast to Brigid as she glances his way. Belatedly, he rubs a finger across his mustache, and offers an unsmiling wink.

Sabella sweeps into the party late and likely rather unnoticed since it seems the Queen just got here! It doesn't stop her from chattering up a storm as she does so, "--beautiful gardens! And they are! Look around!" she gestures for Elizabetta and Lily so they can go amuse themselves with all the other staff that are seen and not heard, beaming a smile at the others that are already here enjoying themselves, "Duke Cristoph! My apologies for being so late! My husband would tell you I only show up when there are cakes but I know that people here have seen me at the Assembly of Peers and there is only cake when Archduchess Jaenelle sneaks some in at the high lord's table and I think that might be what I miss most about sitting up front! Well, that and helping the the Compact solve all of its problems in an open format where everyone can share their opinions about decisions that are usually already made! What a lovely garden!"

Kael's eyes flit over toward Symonesse a moment, brows furrowing as he glances back toward Reigna, but there's no question actually voiced. Instead he's back to focusing in on that little contraption. "To the bard then," he says with a nod to Sorrel, as if toasting her before delving into this troublesome feat. "Left hands, Reigna?" Should the contraption be offered forth, he accepts with a humble nod of his head.

The little baby in Shae's arms coos and reaches for the Queen's offered hand, Shae all the while is smiling--no beaming to the Queen. A little warm laugh, "He seems to be taken with you, your Majesty," the little boy cooing a bit more, lets go of the one of the Queen's fingers that he had grabbed. Shae looks to her husband Kedehern, and then steps back, so others may greet Symonesse, as well.

Calista shares a couple of private words with Mabelle, and something her cousin tells her, makes her laugh right into her glass of wine. "Oh my dear. I can help you expand your appetite."

Cassandra gives a little chuckle seeing Jael run off. "There she does again..." she muses, as if seeing her sister do isn't a new thing to her. But she will go silent, watching on in observation and contemplation.

"Oh, no. That's alright, you don't need to apologize. Thank you for managing to make it here. You're always a welcome guest at our home--" Cristoph watches as Jael makes with a very hasty exit. There's a brief second where he looks troubled before he shakes it off, cutting his teeth on his lower lip and hissing out a breath of air. To Symonesse, "Again, thank you for coming! Ah, Princess Sabella! It's good to see you as well. You're in time for dessert!" he offers with a laugh. There's a quiet exchange with Cassandra as well, one that has him pausing entirely to look down at something in her hands. His expression goes serious and nods once before speaking to her again.

Mabelle jokingly murmurs to Calista, "Wait till I finish with the dark ones", she's not talking about chocolate. She wiggles her fingers to Sabella as she enters "Princess" and then hopes, "My Queen, Do you have enough cake over there?", she checks on Symonesse.

Symonesse seems just as taken with the baby as she speaks to him, not in a baby voice, but just her regular tone, "Oof. You have a strong grip. I am not surprised at all. Be kind to your mother and your nannies, my dear. Let them sleep sometimes, hm?" When the baby releases her fingers, she laughs a little and then gives a nod to Cristoph. She manages to make eye contact with Mabelle and give her a little nod and a wave of thanks before she then starts to seek out Alaric, but not before swerving to make a stop by Reigna's seat. "Goodness! Look at you! May I say hello?"

Alaric leans forward, smoothly presenting the tiny finger contraption for Kael and Reigna to lock themselves in at their leisure. "I imagine the two of you will have no problem figuring this out," he opines with a short laugh. "With how close and deep of a bond, there is no doubt in my mind you'll do far better than Princess Sorrel and I did, fighting and pulling every few minutes for who would take lead." Sorrel's glass of wine is pilfered and replaced with a glass of whisky. "Here, Princess Squeakers. Let us trade?" Fortunately for Symonesse, Alaric is right next to the Keatons. He casually attempts to steal her sweets, too. "Ah, there you are. What did you manage to find, Symonesse? I'm absolutely starving."

"Then I am exactly on time," Sabella grins to Cristoph, giving Mabelle a bright wave, "Lady Mabelle! I've heard people singing your praises lately, which I am never surprised to hear!"

"Left hands!" Reigna agrees, but before she can have her finger imprisioned in the woven leather contratption, Symonesse arrives. "Your majesty!" Reigna, despite her pregnancy being in the latest stage, pushes up to her feet. She does not attempt a curtsy, but the respect is clear. "I am so glad to see you, I had been meaning to set up time for tea, but life..." She shakes her head. She looks down at her belly and says, "I had been hoping for a girl, to name after Juniper, but I *think* Kael might be getting another boy..."

Cassandra appears to be having a sibling moment with her brother, a hand reaching over to squeeze his shoulder. Must not being anything terrible because the Legate is still smiling rather fondly.

Looking to Brigid and Drake both now, "Goodness, it seems there is just some much that needs to be done." Nodding in agreement with Brigid, with what the Baroness had said to her just a bit ago. And then to Calista, she smiles, "That is very true, Duchess. As Kedehern can attest to, I'm rather terrible at listening, and a bit stubborn at times. Thank you, for your wisdom, I have not really had a chance to talk much with other mothers, about being a mother. My own mother, Baroness Clement, just recently returned to Arx." Shae shares with a warm smile. And then to Drake, "You know, I'm not that great of a swimmer myself, but part of that is due to my leg. I was glad Daegmund was able to safely bring Mabelle to shore, though." A smile toward the dog that was sitting off a ways, watching the party from where he lay. She turns her attention back to Kastelon.

"Ah, you're the best," Sorrel says to Alaric cheerfully as she takes the whiskey glass from him and lifts it in a toast. "Your Highness!" she greets Symonesse brightly, smiling at the fair queen in a charming manner. "You're looking lovely today. I was just keeping your husband out of trouble. Mostly."

Calista coughs again, at something. "What is in this drink?"

Mabelle abandons the Queen with a parting smile one she is set for sweets and Cupcake is following her around with the plate. Her smile drifts toward Sabella and she jokes, "I always give them reason", she then adds, more demurely, "Thank you!". A near giggle turns into a restrained smile as Calista coughs, but she eventually hides her face and regains composure only to tell Shae, "So much to do! And that is why I love dogs the most!

"You are kind, your majesty," answers Kael to Alaric with an inclination of his head. He starts to turn to see about that finger entrapment when the arrival of the Queen has him distracted. Reigna leaping up or attempting to means he's intervening and placing an arm about her back, then offering a hand to hers to assist her up. "And either is fine," he tacks on to Reigna's words, swiftly. Is he speaking to his wife, the Queen, or all assembled? Likely the first.

"I found nothing. I was served because Lady Mabelle is an absolutely gem and I adore her." Since he is already stealing from her anyway, Symonesse passes the plate off to Alaric to pick over what is available and, instead, helps Reigna back into her seat, "You don't need to stand. I think etiquette will survive if you remain seated." She places a pale hand against Reigna's stomach and laughs a little before she whispers, "I think you are right. I also hope you were wishing for redheads. I can't -guarantee- it, but I have a suspicion. Juniper is a lovely name. I think it will suit this little one. You'll have to find something for her brother, though. I hope you have picked out a name for him as well." The Queen is still crouched when she glances up at Sorrel and says with a laugh, "I'm not sure anyone could keep him out of trouble for long. It is good to see you too, Princess."

Symonesse is overheard praising Mabelle.

Symonesse is overheard praising Mabelle.

Over in the direction of Cristoph and Cassandra, Cristoph is now putting his hand on his sister's shoulder, mirroring her own movement to him. He's laughing and ducking his head, explaining something. Whatever is happening over there, he doesn't look upset exactly. It's just... a moment.

"Perhaps we should open this conversation up to the others." Calista inquires of Mabelle. "It's all in good fun really. What do you think?" Shadowed emerald eyes sweep the gardens before falling upon her cousin again. "Rules could be 'present company excluded'."

Mabelle blushes somewhat and bows gratefully to Symonesse for her kind words but turns alarmed to Calista, "No no no no, this is an Oathlanders dinner party", she lowers her voice to Calista, "No no no".

Blink-blink go Reigna's lashes and her lips fall open as she listens to Symonesse's words. She looks speechless for a few moments and then looks up at Kael, before looking back to the Queen, and finally she laughs, "Really?! Oh, your majesty! I -- redheads?! Oh that is wonderfully exciting!" She laughs again, putting a hand over the Queen's in a moment of effusive presumption. "Thank you," Reigna's voice is full of tender joy, a brightness that shines through her. "Thank you for saying hello, and for -- well. We both loved Juniper. And I -- I have missed her terribly. Perhaps this babe might help remind us both of the love we shared for a certain red-haired Whisper." She looks to Kael, brows lifted, "Can you believe it?"

Sabella piles a plate rather high with a bunch of treats, giving a big smile and curtsy to Alaric and Symonesse as she passes, waving a hand to get Sorrel's attention, "Princess Sorrel! I wanted to let you know that not a day passes where someone doesn't comment to me on that last concert you gave--or the Metallics series! I think you might be the most famous member of the Bard's college--just don't tell Mistress Gianna or Nik that I said that."

1 Templar Initiates, 3 Templar Knight guards leave, following Cassandra.

Alaric helps himself to a flaky golden pastry, then dutifully holds the plate upon his lap while Symonesse tends to the task of seating Reigna comfortably once more. The corners of his mouth upturn at what he overhears between his wife and the Marquessa, though it's to Sabella that his attention shifts. A hand is raised in amicable return, teasing, "I'm going to tell Niklas you said that just to see him worked up."

Kael steps a half-step closer to Reigna when the Queen is reaching for her, particularly her stomach, and he catches himself there. He straightens substantially but holds ground. Now, the words that come forth from her? They just have those dark brows of his furrowing in a most severe manner, as though he was attempting to parse through that. Truly recognize and understand. In fact, when Reigna is asking him that? He's *still* got that look about him. Is that confusion or daze?

Her effervescent laughter lifts from her lips in soft mellifluous tones. The petal soft pads of fingertips caress the rose of fevered cheeks as Calista comforts Mabelle. "My apologies cousin. You can take the girl out of the Lyceum..." She glances around again to spot desserts and spies on what Symoneese has on her plate. "If it's good enough for the Queen, than I would like to indulge, as well."

"Nik would be so betrayed," Sorrel says as she reaches out to guide Sabella in closer to her little circle of people, which involves reaching behind Alaric because everyone's rather clustered together. "Thank you for telling me, though. I love giving concerts. They're wonderful fun, and the King commissioned that last one, in some ways, due to granting that boon. I should send him an invoice for services rendered." She laughs musically, then glances to Reigna with delight.

Mabelle grins at Calista, "Tell me about it. Still,you have no answer. See? I was right. It almost looks like a conspiracy". She beckons one of the servers an tell him, "Go ask Cupcake what she put on that plate and bring one to the Duchess"

Symonesse's expression softens a little and she says softly, "I miss her very much as well. She was very brave and very kind. I hope this little one will be just as much so. The world needs more bravery and kindness." The Queen rests her other hand over Reigna's to give it a gentle squeeze before she removes her hands altogether. She glances at Kael and smiles apologetically, "I am sorry for monopolizing your wife. I just love babies." As conversation hums around her, she reaches out to take her plate back and, finally, get some of that cake.

Sabella pauses in what is a ridiculously large bite of a cupcake that has a more than generous helping of pink frosting, moving closer at Sorrel's beckoning, "If you do I shall have to deny it and then can you imagine the challenge? Princess Sorrel will have to decide if she'd stand for you in the singing competition that would undoubtably be had and I'd hate to put her in such a position!" She grins again and reconsiders that large bite by taking just a bite of the frosting instead, "I think everyone loves watching you give concerts as much as you might love giving them, so you ought to do more! And did I just hear you're having two babies, Marquessa? If I might say, please consider at least three nannies. Just for them. Twins are very...I mean, there's two babies. Two of them. Two. Not one! Which I imagine is why they call them twins. But really, three nannies."

Kastelon drains his milk, and bows his head to Shae and Kedehern. He stands to go help himself to some food.

Kastelon has left the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Reigna is clearly looking overjoyed (and a little overwhelmed) at the idea, and when the Queen is taking back her hands, Reigna swallows and nods, "I could not agree more, your majesty." Reigna's eyes are a little glassy, and when Sabella offers her suggestion, Reigna nods, with a laugh, "Goodness, yes! That is a very good suggestion, your highness, thank you!"

Whatever was transpiring between Cassandra and Cristoph, one of them ends up leaving. That person is not Cristoph. He's still here. He watches his other sister leave and breathes out after they detach from their hug. With that managed, he turns back to the rest of the people still there. He makes his way through the crowds to Kael, noticing that dazed expression. "Are you alright? Do you need something?" he wonders, putting a hand on his friend's shoulder.

Brigid checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Kael blinks out of it and answers, "No reason to apologize, your majesty." Certainly the words come a little bit automatically, but they seem to be genuine of sentiment. "I believe you may have made her night." That assessment? Something he seems quite the bit more certain of. When Sabella's further emphasizing that particular point, Kael is looking even more dumbfounded. Thank the gods, Cristoph is there. He's not swooning back, but he does waver a little bit. "Evidently I need to find another two nannies," he tells him, leaning back on his heels.

Shae gives Kastelon a nod and smile, as he stands to head off. At that point poor little Kristoph starts to get fussy. "Ahh, it seems it is time to head back to the nursery." Leaning over she gives a kiss to Mabelle's cheek. "We shall talk more about your next project. And learning more about the Frosthope as well." Standing then she gives a nod and smile to all those around her: Eiran, Drake, Calista, and Brigid. "It is wonderful to have you back, Eiran. And to see you again, Baroness Moore, Lord Drake And to have gotten to meet you, Duchess Fidante."

Calista has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Whether it was the current conversation of the courageous goodness of Juniper or the fact she'd forgotten how late it was, Brigid moved from where she'd be quietly listening to the flow of conversation upon the nook sofa, a smile is given towards all those she knew and even those she did not, " Duke Laurent, thank you for allowing me to attend - it was a much needed reprieve." A glance to all the others, the weight of misty blues resting here and there, " Next time, I'll make sure to properly introduce myself to those of you that I don't know. Have a wonderful evening." Glancing to Shae, a smile given with a tender curl,"You as well, till life decides to slow down once more so we can talk."

Drake starts to get up from the couch, having finally finished his slouch - and emptied his glass, so he sets it aside. He looks as if he may be on his way around, but then desserts pass by, and he grabs a pastry just... for the road, one supposes. He gives a nod to Shae as she's about to leave also. "Good to see you. We'll speak soon I hope."

Brigid has left the a cozy sofa nook.

At some point, Kedehern would collect Keirlys, the other of their twins, from Mabelle, smiling down at her. Standing, "I think I'm going to join my wife. When one starts up, the other isn't too far behind, in my experience so far," he extolls. A nod to those nearby, and "Thank you for wonderful company, and I hope you all have a pleasant evening."

Mabelle smiles warmly to Shae, Brigid, Kedehern and Drake, "Oh well, you are all leaving. I suppose it is getting rather late. It was a pleasure to see you all tonight, to future plans!", she toasts them among kisses and waves.

Sabella has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Kedehern has left the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Shae has left the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

Symonesse has joined the a rustic garden patio.

Calista blows kisses to both Kedehern and Shae, and their little ones, before they leave. "Have a wonderful and peaceful evening, I look forward to seeing you both soon!" She takes a seat next to Mabelle for now, feeling less overwhelmed.

"Oh, I don't happen to have any of those in my pocket," Cristoph says to Kael regretfully on the subject of multiple nannies. "Perhaps I could just find you another drink? Congratulations on your double addition, however!" As guests begin to leave, he lifts his hand offers them a series of fond farewells.

"You should bring a bottle," Sabella points out cheerfully to Cristoph, "When Nik found out we were having twins, which was right when the second one made her appearance actually, he grabbed a bottle and hasn't stopped drinking since!"

Kastelon waves a duck leg after Brigid. He stands around munching on food for a while longer before also deciding to depart, going to Cristoph and rendering a bow of his head in farewell. "I have enjoyed the excellent dinner and fine company," he states. "Thank you." Another bow is directed towards the king and queen, and he gives his farewells to Reigna and Kael before making his way out of the garden.

"Thank you, for throwing such a lovely dinner party, Nephew!" Shae calls to Cristoph with a grin. And then a smile toward Kael and Reigna, "Cousins, congratulations on your twins!" Having perhaps overheard that they were to have them. A curtsy to Alaric and Symonesse, "I hope you both have a wonderful evening, your Majesties." And then Shae would head off with Kedehern and the babies.

Kedehern gives one last wave to the party-goers, and "Indeed, congratulations," offered to the Keatons, with a broad smile, and then a look to the King and Queen. "A pleasant surprise to have you here. Hopefully, we'll have another opportunity, soon," with a nod. As he exits, he'd clap Cristoph on the shoulder, and then exit after his wife!

"You certainly know how to stun a man into silence, and near fainting spells too," Alaric murmurs in wry quip toward Symonesse, rearranging himself to provide ample seating for the Queen and Sabella. A quick gesture of a hand sees a glass of whiskey brought forth and placed into Kael's hands. "Here, Marquis Keaton, a drink for you. It'll help bring the wonderful news truly home, and to celebrate," he says.

Mal, a devious raccoon, Daegmund, an Oakhaven Shepherd, Sylvie, a bubbly Keaton huntsman in training, Carwyn, a Greenmarch War Elk, Brimbar, Spice the toddling otter pup leave, following Shae.

Symonesse gives Shae and Kedehern a wave as they depart, "It was nice to see you!" She picks apart a cookie and then glances at Alaric with a grin, "It's a gift."

Alix, a young Oakhaven Shepherd leaves, following Kedehern.

Bedivere has left the a cozy sofa nook.

Mabelle couldnt ignore the talk about twins, she calls to Reigna and Kael, "Congratulations! That's adorable", but then she teases Kael, "Could have been a trio"

Kael lifts a hand in a most sweeping wave, first to Kastelon and thereafter to Shae. He takes a deep breath, a steadying sort of thing, and laughs in an abrupt manner to Cristoph's commentary regarding not having any in his pocket. "Likely a good thing," he informs him. When Alaric is handing him the whiskey, he looks near close to declining (Oathlander and all) but in the end shoots it back after a murmur of gratitude. He hisses and coughs at the burn, but it was evidently quite needed. "Well," he says. "It could have, Lady Mabelle, and welcome they might be, but I leave that to some other lucky couple." Up goes that brow there and quite pointedly he looks back and forth between King and Queen.

Reigna is still laughing, and she waves to all of those offerign congratulations, her cheeks so very pink. "Thank you! Oh, this is terribly exciting!" she looks to her shell-shocked husband and says, "It will be just like when we had Kata and Aeryn. Granted, Kata was much older, but... well, alright it won't be anything like that. Oh my poor..." She stops right there, biting her lower lip and then says, "Nurses, yes. Oh, my but Brianne might be annoyed." She grins at Sabella and Alaric and says, "My husband is very traditional and does not drink while I cannot. But I think, perhaps this time, he should make an exception."

"What a delight, though! Reigna loves having a big family, and this way she gets to add to her count without an extra pregnancy," Sorrel suggests with an impish grin, looking highly amused. "Me, I'm done with babies. Every time I get pregnant, I find myself at war. I'm doing a favor to the Compact by stopping at two."

Symonesse gives Kael a -significant- look as she says, "Oh, no. The Queen of Endings likes -me-. She'd never be so mean, even if she would find it hilarious."

"I don't think that threes for the next round would be such a terrible idea," Alaric opines to Kael from behind Symonesse with a conspiratorial grin. "Or even quadrupl--" And then he pauses, as though reality just hit him. "Perhaps not, on second thought."

2 Kennex corsairs arrives, following Zoey.

"Well, maybe you carry them, then," Sorrel recommends to Alaric with an amused look, trying not to burst out laughing.

"I'll try to find you good recommendations. Some of the former nannies for Eadric were very good!" Why are they former nannies then? Because of Eadric, possibly. Speaking of which, one of the nannies comes rushing into the garden now and attempts to get Cristoph's attention. "My lord! Your son slipped away and managed to climb into the loft over the stables and kicked down the ladder! He won't listen to reason, we can't get him down again. He keeps throwing handfuls of hay in our faces!" Cristoph's face is expressionless before he sighs. Turning to the people immediately around him, "Excuse me. I need to take care of something." And with that, he's ducking out to strang- er, wrangle his son.

Reigna looks horrified for a moment, "Triplets or quadruplets? Gods and goddesses save us." There is a laugh and a wink to Mabelle, "Perhaps when you marry, Lady Mabelle, you can show us how it is done!" Sorrel might contain her laughter, but at the quip to the King, Reigna bursts into another round of giggling. "Oh nooooo!" When the nanny arrives with that news, Reigna claps a hand over her mouth.

Zoey returns some time later, having slipped out when a messenger from home had apparently delivered news of some emergency. She takes a moment to survey the remaining guests with a smile. "Now what have I missed?" she wonders aloud.

Kael looks back and forth between the royal couple there, second brow lifting to join the first. This time though he's quite quiet, though he too seems to be on the verge of laughter. It is contained, dazed having merged to content, even as he settles a hand there on Reigna's back. "Let me know if you would like assistance, my liege!" calls Kael in the wake of Cristoph's departure.

Symonesse just gives Alaric a Look. Her pale brows lift and she tilts her head before Cristoph's predicament is announced and he goes rushing off to deal with his son. She turns to Alaric and murmurs, "I -told- you Alessa gets that from -your- side of the family!"

Mabelle chuckles at Reigna, "Perhaps, I have been contemplating it recently. But I am sure you are up to any task given to you, Marquessa", she winks in return and waving to Cristoph. Zoey gets called over to the hearth, "The Keatons are having twins!

Sabella laughs at Cristoph's recounting of his nannies, "That sounds so familiar! Aren't children just darling?" She beams, turning the cupcake about so as to find the most perfect place with the most frosting to attack next, "And I don't know that anyone could truly have more than two babies at once," she gives it a moment of thought and then shakes her head, "No, I'm quite sure it's definitely not possible! Where would they fit? Do you know how long it takes to give birth to two babies? Well, it seems quite common here in Arx so I imagine a lot of people here do know but it takes a very long time and it is twice as messy as just one. Because there's two babies, I think I mentioned that before. Two. Two."

Kael is starting to look just a shade more pale for every 'two' spoken by Sabella.

"Two," Sabella repeats again and while she is still smiling there's just this...this emptiness to the word. Two.

Zoey's shoulders shake with repressed laughter as Sabella uses the power of Two to make Kael grow ever paler. "Are they now?" She calls back toward Mabelle. "Shall I offer congratulations or condolences? Mine were two years apart and were plenty of trouble with the break in between."

Alaric merely shrugs at Symonesse's look, matching it with one of his most charming grins. "Alright, maybe she -does-, but that doesn't explain the -other- qualities she clearly gets from your side of the family," he defends with a short laugh, turning his head and leveling a sympathetic smile toward Kael. "Another whiskey?" he offers, gently nudging Sabella. "Perhaps you'll be the one to give us three new cousins to dote on, Sabella. You're good at surprises."

Sorrel reaches out to take Sabella's hand. "You don't have to do it again," she says gently, laughing in spite of herself. "You can be done. Done!"

Reigna winces herself at the repetition, but she's also laughing. And laughing, one hand clutched to the curve of her belly as she sways in her chair. "I love you people. I really do." She wipes the tears from her eyes and says, "Oh, I needed that laugh." She shakes her head and smiles, looking to Sabella, "Think of how impressed people would be!" She grins and looks over to Sorrel and says, "Can you really stop at two? I could not. Clearly!"

"Yes. Her good looks." Symonesse says with a grin before she hands off her plate and then says breezily, "Oh, don't torture the Marquis too much. Two isn't that bad with help. Then they turn into toddlers. Red-haired toddlers. Anyway! I promised Tulip a moonlit walk through Alarice Plaza. There are some flowers growing there that I think he wants to eat. It's been lovely to see you all!"

Zoey has joined the an outdoor hearth with couch seating.

"I feel like Prince Niklas must have done something to offend you, your majesty, for you to say such things out loud," Sabella tells Alaric with a laugh, "I bet you anything that he has just paused in his writings to let a dreadful shudder pass through him as thought someone has touched a cold hand to the back of his neck. No, no, I'm quite fine with four for at least another two years! And so long as Nik keeps buying me tiaras, perhaps longer than that and as Princess Sorrel here says, I can only eat too many cakes when I want to without any excuses!" She gives Sorrel's hand a squeeze and grins, then offers Symonesse a bow of her head and a little curtsy, "It is always lovely to see you!"

Kael takes a slow, deep breath, and when Symonesse makes to depart, he is bowing in a low and deep manner. "Your majesty," he murmurs, quietly. "Toddlers are much better. They become far less ... breakable-like." Another few breaths are taken, deep and stabilizing ones, even as he starts to gently play with Reigna's hair. It might be a little gesture for attention, for should she look his way he mouths, "Are you all right?" her way.

"They only seem less breakable until they start climbing bookcases," Zoey calls out in Kael's direction.

Reigna looks up at Symonesse and simply beams, "It was lovely to see you, your majesty. I hope you and Tulip have a wonderful walk." She reaches a hand out to Kael, hoping to snag his own. "Thank you again, Queen Symonesse. Very much!" Sabella has Reigna cracking up again, shaking her head. Kael's mouthed words have her eyes widening and an overwhelmed smile on her face. "I am getting a bit tired I must say. Though... this does indeed explain my size."

Mabelle rises, offering a curtsy to Symonesse, "Your attendence has been a great honor, My Queen", she makes sure the guards get a little package with a whole cake in it for her indulgence later.

"Reigna, it is for the good of the Compact!" Sorrel says seriously, grinning broadly. "Thank you for joining us, Queen Symonesse! I hope that we can get together soon."

Drake standing near Mabelle by the couches, gives the Queen a bow, but does not otherwse interrupt.

Zoey follows suit with her cousin and rises for a curtsy to the departing queen.

Alaric makes to rise after his wife, a hand touched lightly to her lower back. "Your Majesty, I would be honored to escort you on this walk. Besides, there is a surprise I have for you." He turns to bow his head in parting gesture to those around him. "Thank you for the lovely evening."

Calista also rises to bid the Queen and King adieu.

Mabelle curtsies to Alaric as well, "Thank you for gracing us with your presence, Your Majesty"

"Your majesty," Kael echoes, but this time due to Alaric's departure. Another bow comes forth, low and deep, before he straightens slowly. "My lot have mostly managed to refrain from doing so," he calls to Zoey with a smile. When his hand is captured with Reigna's, he squeezes gently and nods his head to her. "Are you ready to depart?" he asks her, more quietly. After all, she did say she was tired.

As Symonesse walks out with Alaric, her brows lift and she murmurs, "A surprise?"

Symonesse has left the a rustic garden patio.

Alaric has left the a rustic garden patio.

Zelda, the royal messenger, 13 King's Own Guardsmen leave, following Alaric.

5 King's Own Guardsmen, Alaric leave, following Symonesse.

Reigna nods to Kael as she pushes up to her feet, "I am, yes." She looks to Sabella and Sorrel and says, "Thank you, both of you, for lovely conversation. You are delightful." She puts a hand on Kael's arm and says, "But I think I am ready to head home."

"Congraulations!" Sabella tells Reigna and Kael as they make to depart, "And I meant it. Three nannies. Just for the babies," did she just stress the plural there? Probably. But then she's turning her attention to the last of her cupcake, "Princess Sorrel, I did mean what I said earlier. You have a true talent not just for singing but composing, which I think is honestly a far rarer and more cherished talent to have."

"I appreciate it," Sorrel says seriously to Sabella with a smile, looking a bit touched. "I think that Niklas is a quicker wit than I am, but I do spend a lot of time composing. I hope that people really appreciate my work."

Mabelle wiggles her fingers from afar to Reigna and Kael, "Fare thee well!"

"It was a pleasure," Kael offers forth to Sabella and Sorrel, and there is even a little up-chin offered for Mabelle. "Do have a good evening." Maybe Kael has to take a moment to gather himself when Sabella stresses that plural, but it is in fine spirits that he goes about the task of helping Reigna up, wrapping an arm around her to make her walk easier, and then they are away.

Kael has left the a rustic garden patio.

Reigna has left the a rustic garden patio.

Reigna leaves, following Kael.

Calista shouts from nearby, "GOD WILLS IT!"