2 Pravus Honor Guard, Abram, an ornamental hermit arrive, following Matteo.

It is again that time of the year! Weather is warming up, flowers are flowering everywhere and… Perfect time for picnics!
Valery and Donella are in charge of organizing one and greeting the people this time, and they made sure that everything is perfect for the occasion. There are cups, cookies and cakes on the table, and a couple of pots steam happily full of water. There are also a few bottles already filled with tea and whiskey cooling down on the stream and pots of honey on the table for whoever wants to sweeten their drinks.
”Welcome.” Valery murmurs, softly, to those arriving. She has a warm smile and waves here and there.

Sir Floppington the Soulful Hound arrives, following Rowenova.

It is again that time of the year! Weather is warming up, flowers are flowering everywhere and… Perfect time for picnics!
Valery and Donella are in charge of organizing one and greeting the people this time, and they made sure that everything is perfect for the occasion. There are cups, cookies and cakes on the table, and a couple of pots steam happily full of water. There are also a few bottles already filled with tea and whiskey cooling down on the stream and pots of honey on the table for whoever wants to sweeten their drinks.
”Welcome.” Valery murmurs, softly, to those arriving. She has a warm smile and waves here and there.

Onida, a boglands wolf-hound, Outi the Iron Hound, Gene Erique, Guardsman, 3 Iron Guardsmen, Tero the Iron Hound, Buckley arrive, following Jyri.

Conall, a huge, friendly, sable Wolfhound dog with bright platinum eyes, Ylva, an impressively-large, silvery Wolfhound with bright gold eyes, 3 Armed Confessors, Atanas Pandev, a wry, stalwart escort, Colm Teague, the stolid adjunct of ice-blue eyes, Ash, a fearless grey fuzzball of cuteness with butter-yellow eyes arrive, following Sunaia.

Sunaia arrives, following Ringvald.

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

Tikva arrives in a swirl of skirts, gesturing broadly to Eleanor as she walks. "See," she says, "the thing about a garden party is that you get all the benefits of being outside, but then there's cake literally everywhere."

Darren is also here! He's not being very helpful however, he's probably been sent out of the way to not cause trouble as he sips his whiskey, one hand on Bear's head. "Welcome, welcome!" he echoes Valery, somewhat louder than her, even from his spot almost inside a bush.

"Whoa, slow down! We're gonna craaasshhhh!" This is Rorik who can likely be heard all the way from the entrance to the ward. But he can be seen AND heard soon enough, as he comes onto the Redrain Grounds on Porter's back. Yes, the Kennex giants go everywhere in /style/ and a tea party is no different, so piggy-back riding it is. They thankfully do NOT crash though, managing to make it without any incident whatsoever. Rorik drums his hands on Porter's head before he leaps off, triumphant, and then flourishes into a bow for Darren and Donella. "Hello hello, your Grace and your Highness. What a lovely tea party you have here!"

With a basket on her arm and a colorful blanket rolled up over one shoulder, Rowenova shows up with Sir Floppington moving beside her. He gently wags and gazes forth to the gathered crowd as they -- the human/canine duo -- make way for willow shade.

Prince Matteo Pravus finally has an entourage, for all that it might not be much of one in comparison to others: two honor guards of his House, and a singular old man who is dressed in the garb of a Northern shaman, following the guards. He strolls into the gardens with his hands in his pocket, his gaze sweeping around before falling on Valery as the woman greets him. "Yes, yes, of course. Thank you for having me," he offers, then makes his way over to the cakes so as not to hold up any line of entrance. Abram? He moves towards the stream, to fold himself into a crossed seat at its bank and meditate.

Donella stands with a polite smile upon her face as seh nods to those that come in. She offers a more warmed smile for Valery. "This is your doing, Dearest. I trust you to be hostess. You will be the belle of the picnic." Her hand snakes out to twist through Darren's arm and her fingers of her other hand extend towards his drink.

Kiko, a Kite of the Cloudspine, Hickory, the Deerhound, Russel, a Blackram Retainer, 1 House Lyonesse Adept Guards arrive, following Cahal.

Connal, a Northern Wolfhound, Honeymare, Cahal arrive, following Rosalind.

Rowenova is overheard praising Valery: I love my alchemy teacher! She is the best there is!

Sabella comes in with her usual flurry of movement and brilliant smiles, "The gardens look absolutely gorgeous! What a wonderful idea for a party!" She enthuses, going over to Donella and Valery for hugs and greetings, "How have the two of you been? Are those cookies? Is that--" she pauses at the yelling and turn sto say, "Porter?!" a pause, "And Rorik!"

Ringvald arrives to the garden joined at the hip with a much smaller woman at his hip, muttering quietly to her about the difference in wildflower growth across the climate. As they're coming inside, his eyes lift up to the number and status of the many other guests, leaving the prodigal feeling somewhat off even in his own environment. "It's much bigger than I expected." He speaks to Sunaia, the very woman who had accompanied him to the picnic. "And much more diverse, though this city tends to be."

"Are there benefits to being outside?" Eleanor asks Tikva lightly. She's surveying the garden in question with bright interest. "I could have cakes indoors whenever I want," she says, turning to give Tikva a cheerful, crooked smile. "Many fewer ants, too."

Though tea and garden parties aren't her usual way to pass the time, Alessia's decided to spend the spring's warmth surrounded by the beauty of the Redrain grounds. "Thank you for holding this." She smiles warmly at Valery. "Messere." She notes Darren and Donella soon after. "Your grace, your highness." She inclines her head, her tone merry.

Matteo has joined the a modest picnic table.

1 Templar Knight guards, Sir Daniel the Beardless, a somewhat hapless Templar arrive, following Hamish.

"But-- plants! Sunshine! Fresh air!" Tikva swings her arms wide as though this is, itself, an argument, whirling in a 360 degree spin. "Look! They have a treehouse. Come on, we can climb up and yell at people from an idyll amidst the branches." She starts towards the ladder, and pauses for a moment, considering her flowing raiment of skirts and overskirts and beads. "Hm," she says. "I'm in a party dress," she tells Eleanor. "Do we care?"

Cahal laughs as Rosalind and he enter the Redrain estate. "Of course it was." He grins again. "Gaston? We're cousins." He looks around the party he just arrived at with pleasure. "What a crowd."

"Sabella!" Rorik booms out in a friendly manner too close to the Grayson princess, who he sweeps up into a careful hug in greeting. "Where's Niklas? I feel incomplete if I can't yell out Sabella! and then NIKLAS!" His shoulders sag as he looks about for his cousin and finds nothing, but he's quick to perk up again. "I've never been to a tea party before," he admits to Sabella. He spies Alessia coming in and inclines his head to her, offering a bright smile. "Lady Alessia! It's good to see you again."

"Your Grace and your highness, good day!" Porter offers cheerfully to Darren and Donella, offering an elaborate bow for that greeting. "You might remember me from such messages as the time I asked about your history with cows." That last is really to Darren before he follows his cousin off, asking, "How big do you think the teacups are going to be here?" Then he waves, "Hello Sabella!"

After moving into the shade of the willow branches, Rowenova sets the basket upon the grass then furls out the colorful blanket of patchwork creation -- quite big -- upon the grass there before she flops down and transfers the basket onto the blanket, too. Of course, Sir Floppington joins her, too, and then she looks up and waves to people, particularly Valery, of course.

Jyri trails in not far behind princess Sabella and takes one long grim look around with not much charm or cheer. Still, there are familiar faces and the one-eyed man nods curtly to several as he prowls to greet the hosts. "Nice garden. Great party," he tells Donella and Valery, eyeing them both with open curiosity. "Lord Jyri Whitehawk," he introduces himself too, then steps aside to let others a chance to greet.

Valery licks her lips and takes a deep breath, getting strength before addressing the crowd again. "As other times, I added a new tea to try today. It's sweet and I have it warm." A gesture to the steamy pots. "Or cold." Another gesture to the stream. "It is... well, as all, it is special, and this one is to be drank with a tiny bit of whiskey, so there are some bottles around. Feel free to choose how you want it."

Her long, white fingers curled around Ringvald's right arm, Sunaia walks closely with the tall, golden-haired prodigal, her sharp, silver-moon eyes flicking to the various plants he indicates as the pair walk together. Wearing an umbra blouse and brocaded umbra skirt, she contrasts easily with the large Prodigal's more-comfortable leathers and seems not-at-all troubled by this difference. She flicks her eyes here-and-there to the various people gathered, her small smile fairly-permanent as they wander around. She leans closer to Ringvald's shoulder and murmurs something.

"Im in there practically daily,"Rosalind declares with a broad smile. Her freckled but scarred face is appearing a bit tan-by northern standards-and she seens to have hijacked a bird and a Blackram named Cahal. Chatting his ear off. When she sees Darren and Donella, she offers them both a wave(seriously), and smile,"Hello your highnesses!"and limps her way over to--NOVA!

Treehouse! Should've led with that, Tikva. "I do like Sunshine," Eleanor allows with a nose-scrunch of fond amusement at Tikva's antics. "And I definitely like climbing things." Eleanor is sensibly in pants, because one never knows when an opportunity for climbing might arrive. She examines Tikva with a frown. "I don't know," she answers. "Did it cost very much? Maybe you'd better not ruin it." DISAPPOINT.

Svana wanders in, or waddles, rather. She bows to Donella and Valery with a smile, though it's fairly clear she's a bit miserable. She makes her way over to Rowenova and hugs the woman, smiling at her. "Tarik has told me to start his wedding outfit. Is there a specific date I should be done by?" She pauses. "Oh, and hello!" She puts her hand on her stomach and looks over to Rosalind, smiling widely.

"That's my drink, Donella, getcha own!" Darren can be heard complaining even as he relinquishes it to his wife's finders. There's a lot of people in the garden suddenly, the High Lord giving a smile to those that arrive. He raises an eyebrow at the arrival of the Kennex giants. "Ah, Lord Porter, I'm surprised I didn't hear from you after our last exchange," he says with a wry grin.

"History of cows? Does Redrain have an entire cow history?" Rorik asks the first question to Porter, but the second one is definitely directed towards Darren as he lifts his brows high. "You should tell us, if only because I hear some people put milk in their tea and milk comes from cows and - did you say whiskey?" He looks over to Valery, already heading over to be the first person to dump whiskey into his tea. "How much tea do you put in a glass of whiskey, exactly?"

Apparently enshrouded by not only the shadow of her wolf pelt but also the shade from the willow tree, Rowenova lifts up a greeting wave to Rosalind and welcomes her to the ginormous patchwork blanket which has plenty room for around a half dozen. She happily snugs Svana, "Wanna picnic here under the willow tree?" Then, she whispers to Svana.

Tikva has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

"Lord Rorik." Alessia's brows rise when she recognises the man, her warm smile remains. "Gods, it feels like it's been a while." She grins. "Porter." She extends to his cousin, naturally. Her expression brightens when her eyes rest on Sabella. "Your highness!" She greets the princess. "How've you been?"

"Honestly," Porter starts to explain to Darren, looking up at the sky. "I think that I got distracted. That happens sometimes, it's a terrible personality flaw to have," he admits very gravely. When Rorik begins to speak, he drops his arm around his cousin's shoulders, speaking to him very earnestly while making a series of gestures with one of his hands.

Tikva checked strength + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Jyri has joined the a modest picnic table.

"Pffft!" Tikva turns in another swirl of skirts and begins to mount the tree. The leather shoes she is wearing are actually better suited to this than they would be for dancing, her feet curling inside them as she monkey-climbs up the tree. "Now we're the tallest!" she announces, hanging one hand from a branch and swaying half into the treehouse and half out of it. "My goodness, your treehouse has glass windows! Fancy."

Drawing Ringvald closer to Donella and Darren, Sunaia directs herself and her companion to the hosts, withdrawing from his arm for a moment to give a polite curtsy and respectful nod. "The gardens are beautiful, thank you for sharing them with everyone, Your Grace, Your Highness. I don't believe we've met," the white Ashford continues, "I'm Lady Sunaia Ashford."

Valery hands out some cups around, for people to fill as they wish.

Ringvald stands nearby, on approach to properly greet Donella and Valery, but the two seem to be getting swarmed more than enough. Instead the Clearlake tries to remain polite and brief, as not to overwhelm. "Your Grace, Your Highness." He offers, though he himself is slightly overwhelmed in the unexpected volume of people flowing around and chatting. "I don't believe I've gotten to properly meet you yet, I am Lord Ringvald Clearlake." He offers after Sunaia brings them forward fully.

"We have four children and nannies that apparently need breaks so he's likely under a pile of blocks right now," Sabella replies with a laugh to Rorik, giving Alessia a big smile, "I am well! Busy! But that's always a good thing! Hello Porter! And Scout Rowenova! Did I see Tikva before or did I just dream it?" She goes up on her tiptoes to look around, giving a wave to Sunaia as she sees her as well/

When he's done whispering to Rorik, Porter straightens up and hears Alessia/also sees her. "Alessia! Hello. When are we talking?" That comes a bit contextless so maybe she nows what he means and maybe... not? It's hard to say.

Rorik leans into Porter when he says something to him, but he's apparently very terrible at being discreet. Whatever is being said, he looks wide-eyed from Alessia, to Darren, back to Alessia again, and then finally BACK to Darren, and he /gasps/ aloud. "I'm very good at that too," he says to Porter almost defensively, before he shoves himself into a chair and grabs his teacup. "These teacups are too small for whiskey," he decides, frowning at the one that looks tiny in his big hand. To Sabella, he blinks and stares. "You put Niklas under a pile of blocks? Well. I mean. I don't think I can blame you actually."

Rowenova checked dexterity + alchemy at difficulty -1, rolling 45 higher.

In a flurry of steps and a swirl of silks, Princess Denica hurries down the path to the garden, her dark hair in a tousle from the breeze. A little breathless, she pauses just away from the gathering to sweep a look across the crowd, before, "Sister!" She flounces to Donella and Darren, with a low curtsey and a wide beam. Then, with a glance to those closest, "Ah, apologies to disrupt the greetings. But it is so delightful to see you!"

1 Templar Knight guards, Sir Daniel the Beardless, a somewhat hapless Templar leave, following Hamish.

Cahal gives Rowenova a warm smile when he follows Rosalind over in her direction. "Always good to see you Rowenova." He gives the nearby Svana a warm smile and the offer of a handshake. "Cahal Blackram."

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Marian.

Rowenova pipes up, "Good to see you, Princess Sabella!" She extra snugs Svana before letting go and telling Cahal, "Feel free to join the big blanket here with us!" Us being Svana, Rosalind, and Rowenova, of course!

Donella turns her eyes towards Darren for a few moments of thought. "Thank you for half drinking my drink. I mean I could get my own, but I feel like we should share." She will take a drink and then put it back in his hand. Her smile is political and polite, if directed at anyone not Darren. "Rorik, Porter.." As if those names just go together somehow. "It is good to see you. I am always inspired to drink when you are both around, so it is fitting to be here at a tea party." Her deep blue eyes rest on Rorik. "Perhaps we should talk tomorrow?" Then she inclines her ehad towards the others. "Sabella, it is wonderful to see you out. I am sure that you wouldn't mind doing me a small favor. I know that it is one of your areas of talent. Could you introduce everyone to Valery, so that she knows?" She knows what's she's asking. Tikva and Eleanor are given that same welcoming, polite smile. "Svana, it seems that you are getting closer to birth, are you quite excited?" Although the mention of marriage has her eyes moving to Rowenova. Jyri's introduction is met with a nod of her head. "Well met."

Matteo didn't totally just take a fingerful of frosting off of a cake, putting it in his mouth thoughtfully as he sweeps the party with a look. He manages to look innocent when Valery comes to give him a teacup, flashing her a crooked, bright smile, before wandering away from the cakes even more innocently.

Sunaia smiles over to Sabella as she notes the Grayson princess' greeting, dropping into another quick-and-graceful curtsy. The Ashford's smile, though quick, promises a longer greeting, but she quickly returns her attention to the hosts.

The heavily pregnant woman flops down on the blanket with Rowenova, but slowly. Ever so slowly. "I might not be able to get back up so I will need your help with this, you understand," she tells Rowenova. Svana moves to a position on her knees and reaches up to shake Cahal's hand. "Mistress Svana Grayhope," she says softly. "Hello, miss Rosalind."

Eleanor checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 52 higher.

Marian comes into the garden, arriving late to the event. She doesn't bring her own blanket, preferring to look about to see who might be a good one to sit with. Her liege and then hostess gets a deep bow, she starts to head over there to greet them.

Jyri is handed a teacup and a saucer - he lifts it up and watches it from all angles, curious about the design. "Thank you," he tells Valery with a bow of his head and he goes to find tea and cookies - he got a cup now after all, which he curls his whole mitt around. Can't fit his finger through the ear anyway.

Rowenova makes sure she helps Svana down during her gradual descent to the blanket below. "Certainly." Then, she peeks over with a smile to Donella, and after Svana has been seatuated, she lifts up a wave to Jyri over yonder there!

Valery takes a deep breath, and answers to Rorik. "A spoon or two of whiskey for cup of tea..."

Noting Rorik's gaze, Alessia seems confused for just a moment before giving Porter a look that pretty much says. 'Really?' "Don't trust what he says." She advises Rorik with a laugh. To the other Kennex she maintains a good humoured expression. "I was waiting for you to give me a time and date. A bar, a cafe." She shrugs. "I'm allowing myself more free time these days." She grins.

Valery gets a basket of cookies from a lovely walnut tea cart.

Valery drops a basket of cookies.

Valery gets a bottle of northern whiskey from a lovely walnut tea cart.

Valery drops a bottle of northern whiskey.

Valery gets a box of Lotties Assorted Cookies from a lovely walnut tea cart.

Valery drops a box of Lotties Assorted Cookies.

Cahal has joined the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Rowenova has joined the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Rosalind has joined the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Cahal settles cross legged on the blanket occupied by Svana, Rosalind and Rowenova. "I should use these gardens more often. Somehow I didnt realise they would be so nice." he twists to look around. "I should probably say hello to the hostess."

Rowenova motions to Valery, "She owns the place. She also teaches school here!" This, she tells Cahal.

Eleanor may have fancy titles, but she still has a commoner's sensibilities. "Oh --" She looks worried (for the dress) as Tikva starts to climb and winces slightly, watching with narrowed eyes until the dress makes it safely to the top. Up next, Eleanor is up the tree in a couple of swift movements, still breathing levelly as she settles with her legs hanging over the side. "Oooh." She reaches out and taps a finger against the glass. "Fancy," she agrees.

"Just a spoon or two?" Rorik blinks at Valery and then shakes his head, swallowing a huge gulpful of tea so he has room to fill the cup with whiskey. There is definitely more than a spoon or two in there, probably a questionable amount of actual tea. He looks up to Alessia and beams a grin in her direction. "I'd rather believe him, actually. It's a good story! I'd like to hear it from you sometime," he snickers. When Donella mentions that Sabella should do introductions, he sits up straighter. "Oh, that's a good idea! Introduce, Sabella."

Eleanor has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Darren raises an eyebrow at Porter and Rorik. "Whatever the Lord Porter says about me it's probably an exaggeration," he decides. "And I refuse to be drawn on the matter of *cows* again, lest I be forced to issue another challenge," he sighs, shaking his head. "And Jaenelle and I haven't even organised the last one yet." He sips his newly-returned whiskey. "I think I should add tea to this."

Ringvald gives another small bow of his head to the hosts. "Excuse us, you seem plenty busy, I'd hate to add on too much." He says to them before lifting his head again and turning to separate from the small gathering, quietly speaking with his companion before the two start to make their way out towards Princess Sabella.

Tikva cups her hands around her mouth and hoots from the treehouse. "Up here, Sabella!" she says. "Always check the foliage." Then she throws herself down on the comfortable rug inside the treehouse and becomes obscured from the party for a moment as a pile of beads and silk hidden inside wooden walls. "You climbed that like an Ashford, Lord Commander." Presumably this is a compliment.

Soft smile for Denica, light, polite wave for Marian, another nod for Tikva and Rosalind... So many people! Valery sets some more cookies and another bottle on the table and picks up a teapot to offer tea around. Rowenova gets a warm smile too, and the small apothecary blushes a bit at her words.

"I'm sure that you are," Porter relays to Rorik reassuringly, patting him on the shoulder. Then he too drops down into one of the seats. "I'm terrified of breaking these," he admits and takes one of the little cups in hand with excrutiating care. Once it's filled with tea, he hazards a very tiny sip. The most delicate of sips. He smiles over the rim of the teacup at Alessia, a smirk that curls the corner of his mouth. "I would never tell Rorik something misleading! It's all very truthful. From my own perspective, which is always accurate. Will you sit with us?" Then to Darren, "Certainly not! I was just relaying that you were very good at that thing that you do!"

Frosty, a friendly English sheepdog, Bryn, a flustered lovelorn Prodigal assistant, Misty, a sweet-hearted, but bossy Mistward Labrador leave, following Svana.

Rosalind flops next to Nova, reaching across her to touch Svana's HUGE belly,"Gods and Spirits! Are you sure theyre ok in there?!" When she hears the matter of Darren and cowws, Rosa pipes up,"Theyre adorable! Did you need a reminder? I'll send you another one just in case!"shrinking back by Nova.

Marian waves back to Valery as she retrieves her own cup so she can sample the tea. She chuckles as Darren has yet to notice her standing behind him, giving a wave to Porter and Rorik. She gives a wink to Donella, putting a finger over her mouth so she doesn't give her away.

A soft smile is sent back to Valery by Rowenova before back patting Rosalind. Then, Nova just lazily flops on the big broad colorful blanket underneath the willow tree. Seems like a perfect place to happily nap. But, what about food? Well, she does not quite mess with her picnic basket just yet! It IS there, though, for future use. Sir Flop moves closer Nova throws an arm over him.

"His stories /do/ tend to be more interesting than the truth." Alessia says with an amused smile before turning to Darren. "I do apologise, your grace. I simply spread the word of your bovine-expertise. And things got out of hand." She chuckles, before accepting Porter's invitation, joining the cousins.

Matteo has left the a modest picnic table.

2 Pravus Honor Guard, Abram, an ornamental hermit leave, following Matteo.

With the excuses made by Ringvald, Sunaia murmurs something to him and directs them towards Sabella. "Princess Sabella, it's so good to see you," Sunaia smiles, then looks over at Tikva suddenly when she hears her surname, looking up to the treehouse with a light chuckle. "I'd like to introduce my very-good friend, Lord Ringvald of Clearlake. Lord Ringvald, this is Princess Sabella Grayson. She holds the best dinners for the Grayson fealty every month; maybe you could come next time?"

Rorik has joined the a modest picnic table.

Donella wraps her arm tighter through Darren's and looks at Porter. There is a longer look given without a smile, before she gives one. "He is. He is very good at all that he does, Lord Porter. It is good that you noticed this." Her eyes move to Denica and she brightens. "Sister, it seems it has been forever since I have seen you." She will attempt to wrap her up in a one-armed hug before she releases and offers a lowered comment to Darren. Then back towards Denica. "You must come to dinner and catch us up on everything."

Eleanor seems content to gaze down upon the party and let Tikva do the socializing. "Never know when you'll need to scale a tower," she answers Tikva with a bright smile and a waggle of her eyebrows. "Danger could come from any direction." Constant vigilance.

"Yes, come sit with us, Lady Alessia!" Rorik shoves Porter in order to make sure there's a seat between them both where Alessia can sit. "I still want to hear the story, I feel like I missed out on something incredible. You should've heard the story we were told the other day," he says this to Alessia with wide eyes. "It was about this Marquessa's poor cat, it got LOST."

Donella is overheard praising Darren: When someone talks about the best, they can only be talking about Darren. He's the most charming, the most handsome, the most dad-bod-est, the most courageous, the most 'skilled', and the best picker of spouses.

Ringvald gives another bow as he's introduced to Sabella, placing his free hand on his chest. "Your Highness." He greets in a more relaxed manner after not feeling -quite- so surrounded. "It's a pleasure to meet you, though if your dinners are half as busy as it is here, I may be sorely out of place." He adds with a glance around, perhaps not on purpose. His gaze does wander up to the tree house, where he freezes in thought. Do you bow if they're in a tree? He hadn't studied tree etiquette. Ultimately he just offers them a small smile.

"Is that Lord Jyri?" Sabella is still taking stock of those that are here when her eyes light up at Donella's request and she takes a big breath, "Oh, it would be my absolute pleasure! Mistress Valery I'm sure that I'll be repeating people you know for of course you're acquainted with the unfailingly exquisite Princess Donella who you are hosting with and her husband the illustriously hilarious Prince Darren! So I won't introduce you to them. But! Do you know Princess Tikva Grayson? Not only is she an accomplished singer but she also plays the lute and is an accomplished archer! At least, I'm pretty sure. It's slightly possible I'm making that up so maybe work archery things into a conversation and see if she corrects you. Then there's--oh Princess Denica! Who you might also know because she is an amazing artist, and Princess Marian of course who I could talk about for ages and for whom epics will surely be written one day--hm let's see there's Lord Rorik and Porter Kennex who people mention in the same breath as they do myself and my husband mostly because they're inseparable and both captains and both Kennexes and both very kind hearted and amusing to talk to! Lady Alessia Mazetti is a glaivedancer and while I have a great many ideas of what that is I've never actually seen her do it yet! I believe that's Prince Matteo Pravus there, who I don't know very well, but who was very charming when I met him last--Scout Rowenova of course you must know because she is everywhere all the time and so sweet she must know more people than I do--oh! Lord Jyri Whitehawk! Do you know him? He is one of the most interesting thinkers in all of Arx. Don't let the frown fool you he's quite kind and thoughtful! Let's see--that's Lady Sunaia Ashford who is an Inquisitor and has a very sharp wit and it looks like she came with--oh thank you for the introduction, Lady Sunaia! This is Lord Ringvald Clearlake who I don't know very well at all but if he keeps such wonderful company he must be a person that we should all know! And then there's Lady Rosalind who reminds me of my sister Lou, but is exceedingly wonderful every time I've ever run into her, and finally but only because I just noticed him is Lord Cahal Blackram who I also do not know very well but who I am told loves a good mystery! And--" she pauses and looks around, "Oh, i think that's everyone. Wait no, Dame Eleanor! So I did save the best for last because without Dame Eleanor the Crown itself could not possibly run, which is not saying anything against my cousin the King, but more that she is so exceedingly good at everything she does we could not do without her! All right, I think that is everyone!"

After Sabella says what she does of her, Rowenova smiles. "Aww, thank you, Princess Sabella!"

"We could rain cake on everyone from above," Tikva observes, throwing open the shutters from the treehouse window and peeking out, walking about on her knees. "Your Grace, if you need to hide from the burgeoning adulation, you'll be safe in the branches!" she calls with an unashamed cackle on her breath.

Tikva is overheard praising Sabella: The Impresario of Etiquette, Princess Sabella Grayson!

Rorik is overheard praising Sabella: Wow

Jyri is overheard praising Donella.

Jyri is overheard praising Valery.

Rosalind smiles over at Denica when she greets her. But then Sabella introduces her and-Gods and Spirits! "Hello Princess Sabella,"waving distantly to her. "How are you?!" a large grin for her before settling back on the blanket. Oh. "Hey Hydra,"greeting Alessia too. A smile for the Lycene.

"And Lady Sunaia flatters me because the dinners rather run themselves," Sabella laughs to Ringvald after taking a sip of some tea, still smiling and not at all winded apparently. "But you are quite welcome to come see for yourself!"

Jyri is overheard praising Sabella: How does she even DO that.

When Donella gives Porter a look, he blinks a couple of times and sinks down into the seat. Is it harder to notice him this way? Maybe. He also scoots a little further over from Rorik so that Alessia can sit with them. "Yes, lets tell her the story about the missing cat!" he says enthusiastically. Sipping from the teacup again, he puts his arm around the Mazetti woman's shoulder and begins talking earnestly to her and Rorik.

When Porter speaks of a missing cat, Rowenova perks up and glances his way.

Marian is overheard praising Donella.

Settling in between them, Alessia rolls her eyes. "There was a challenge issued by the archduchess on the actuality of the high lord's knowledge of cows." She answers, simply. "There was no challenge, unfortunately for us all." She raises a brow at Rorik's words. "Ah... Marquessa Iseulet? I know she's a fellow cat-lover." A hand is raised to Rosalind in greeting. "Raven." She winks, before beaming at Sabella when she addresses her. "One day!" She promises.

Marian is overheard praising Valery.

Sunaia blushes profusely at Sabella's introduction. "Gods, your highness - you flatter me, thank you - and I'm sure it's all your doing. You and your husband are always two of my favorite people."

Valery can't avoid but blushing at Sabela's introductions. She again offers waves and smiles. "I... I actually know most of the people, yes... I've made commands for some of them..."
But now, people has tea. A sweet red tea with peach, mint and ginger that marries pretty well with the whiskey. When it's not overflowed by it, of course. And people has cookies and there is almost-enough whiskey for everybody (is it ever enough?) so the small apothecary moves aside and on her stealthy, mousy way, she gets out of the way and sits down under a tree after getting a cup of tea for herself.

Valery has joined the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Donella is overheard praising Valery: Amazing and without whom there would be no event. Her teas and teachings are the best of Redrain.

Jyri looks up from where he's sitting as he hears Sabella's introduction - the cookie he's starting in on is held mid-air and he just stares at her like she just did something magical. There's a frown, and a firm nod, and then a little smile in the end, before he devours that cookie and has a slurp of tea.

Ringvald is slightly taken aback, or rather surprised at the unexpected rattling of greetings and observations by Sabella. "I... Thank you for your kind words." He says, but it might have been a question.

Eleanor's interest seems to be more in admiring the view from the treehouse than in any actual conversation, so the sound of her name catches her off guard. "What?" She looks at Tikva with wide eyes. "All praise must go to His Majesty the King," is what she ultimately responds. From her grand position above it all it sounds like a solemn proclamation. She waves her arm for good measure.

Darren flushes a little at whatever it is that Donella says to him before Sabella is doing a giant introduction adn he just... stares at her for a long moment. "That was quite impressive, Princess Sabella," he allows with an amused smile before he pats Donella's arm and extricates himself, starting to wander around the event as he downs the rest of his whiskey. Instead, he goes to get tea to replace it, glancing up at the tree. "I suspect, Princess Tikva, I'd fall out should I try!" he calls.

Marian wanders away from Darren and Donella, finding a quiet place to sit down and enjoy her tea in peace. She keeps a careful eye to the group, making sure that no one is on their own. Sabella's rendition of those present does bring a smile to her face.

Rorik ducks his head to enter into a hushed conversation with Alessia and Porter, though he's very quickly distracted from it all when Sabella starts to make her introductions. His eyes grow wider and wider as Sabella never seems to /breathe/, and when she's done? He has to get out of his chair just to applaud her. "That's perfect! Amazing!"

"Pish tosh," returns Tikva, which might or might not be words, flapping her hand out the window. "Use the ladder! I'm sure a sportsman of your reputation could manage a ladder!"

Cahal grins across at Sabella when she takes the time to introduce him. "I do Princess Sabella. Especially if it comes with a wonderful, barely believable, story." he smiles at Valery as she comes over to join them. "What do you think of the good news Valery?"

Denica flashes Tikva a bright-eyed smile as she steps to one of the tables to select a cup of tea, clasped in her left palm. She returns to Donella's side after just a moment, smiling, "Yes, of course! Ah, and there is much." Then, with a bow of her head to Darren, "And I am glad to see you, your Grace! But," she laughs, "I shall let you tend your guests, forgive me." A grin lights her face as Sabella recites, and when she finishes, she dips a little bow to the fellow princess. "Hello, Princess Sabella," she laughs. "Thank you. Catch your breath, though!" With a toss of her hair, she flouncess off to offer curtseys and smiles to all she meets, before a pause at the ladder to the treehouse. "Room for another?" she calls up.

Marian has joined the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Looking over to Jyri, Sunaia flashes him a great, wolfish smile, nodding in greeting before she returns her attention to the incredibly-eloquent Grayson princess. "Princess Sabella, you're not incorrect about Lord Ringvald: He is certainly someone to know. If you'll excuse us a moment, I'd like to introduce him personally to Lord Jyri - though I promise to bring him back so you can get to know him better. ...And to bring him to your next family dinner." Sunaia's smile lingers on the Grayson princess, incredulous for a moment, "...You really are incredible, how you know so much about so many people, your highness."

"Of course," Tikva laughs, craning her neck from where she has now propped her shoulders against the interior wall. "This treehouse is huge!"

Sabella grins at Sunaia and Ringvald, "Of course! About the bringing him back so I can get to know him. You. Since you are standing right here! But Lord Jyri is definitely someone to know so go ahead, I won't go anywhere! And Princess Denica I feel like it is too long since we've actually had a chance to really catch up! But really Prince Darren, it's the people that are impressive so listing off what makes them so is actually quite easy. So I should be thanking all of you for being so interesting and worth knowing!"

Ringvald can't help but redden slightly under the praise as he's pulled about for introductions. "Thank you for you kindness." He says to Sabella as he's pulled off, lowering his voice to an embarrassed mutter to Sunaia.

Looking up once more as he hears his name, busy devouring cookies and drinking tea - and just regarding the gathered crowd - Jyri does offer a nod and a wave at Rowenova in a belated reply, and then he squints at Sunaia and scoots over where he sits to make room for her and Ringvald.

Sunaia has joined the a modest picnic table.

Tikva has left the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

Ringvald has joined the a modest picnic table.

Tikva has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Donella turns her own eyes towards the modest picnic table. She walks with her head high as she moves to take a seat at the table. She pauses to get her own cup of tea and a cookie. Those deep blue eyes track Darren through the crowds as if she cannot help but to watch where he moves and when he does, but then she looks to those at the table. "Greetings."

Donella has joined the a modest picnic table.

Tolv has joined the a modest picnic table.

Denica braces her right foot on the bottom rung and, with a smattering of huffs and murmurs of effort as twigs and leaves tug her hair, she climbs her way up the ladder, her step tangled in her skirts a few moments. "Made it!" she gasps as she pulls herself in, her face bright. "Ah, hello, Dame Eleanor. And dear Tikva!"

Valery casts a look around, checking if there are still cookies left and any whiskey bottle that hasn't been bleed yet, but once she makes sure people is enjoying the picnic, she leans back on the bench again, sipping her tea and chatting with Nova and the rest

Marian finishes up her tea, having made an appearance, she tilts her head to their hostesses and Darren before leaving her area and carefully making her way out of the party.

Marian has left the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Marian.

Tikva reaches out a hand to offer to Denica to help her when it looks like she might have trouble but then she makes it. Yay! "Well done! Gown climbing is hard."

Eleanor looks as worried for Denica('s dress) as she was for Tikva('s dress).

Darren salutes Marian as she leaves, the High Lord having just headed in that direction beofre she heads off. There's a wave up to the treehouse. "I think it best as a ladies treehouse for now, Princess Tikva," he grins before he moves to take a seat where Marian has just vacated, settling down thoughtfully with his tea.

Tolv strolls into the garden, unhurried, tapping a small, unheard beat against the side of one leg in sets of three. There's no accompanying humming, or, if there is, it's not loud enough for anyone to hear over the murmur of conversation. Probably for the best. He just keeps going without pause, and plops himself at one of the picnic tables.

Denica has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Denica takes Tikva's hand to make it the last few rungs. "Seemingly," she chuckles, good-nature. She settles down with her back to the wall and legs tucked up, with a brief gesture to smooth her skirts.

Sitting down at the picnic table between Jyri and Ringvald, Sunaia flashes a quick smile to Tolv as he makes his way there - then rises, curtsies again to Donella as she realizes who's joined them, and sits down again.

Tolv returns with a little wave in response to Sunaia's smile. Now that he's sat, the silent beat is tapped out against the edge of the picnic table. "Hm, yes," he says, in response to something that's said. "They are very nice gardens." At which point he seems to realize he's talking a little too loud, so he lowers his voice.

Darren has joined the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

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

The soft smile and the blush that adorn Valery's cheeks seem to deepen as she overhears the praises of the garden.

"It's ok. I'll make sure your bird isn't put any pies or anything either,"Rosalind declares, probably declares a bit louder than anticipated to Cahal. "He'll be my lookout."

For her part, Nova seems to be closing her eyes whilst she is stretched out upon her ginormous picnic blanket under the willow shade by the bench there.

Valery is overheard praising Donella: Best co-host (and best tea cups) ever.

Cahal hmphs at Rosalind's answer. The tone of his voice and the expression of mirth in his eyes totally at odds with each other. "He prefers me." He stands. "I should go meet some of the others."

Tikva has left the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

Denica is overheard praising Donella: My sister! What else need I say? Ah, and dearest hostest of tea.

Tikva has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

After a riveting whisper conversation with Porter and Alessia, Rorik suddenly leaps to his feet. "Mistress Valery, thank you for the whisk-tea. Your Grace, your Highness," he flourishes a bow to Darren and Donella. "Thanks for hosting. This was fun!" And then, with one last whisper to Alessia and Porter, Rorik is OFF.

Rorik has left the a modest picnic table.

"Take care." Alessia waggles her fingers to Rorik in greeting when he departs, an amused smile on her lips. She turns to Porter. "So is the piracy conversation something you want to have here or perhaps another time?" She chuckles.

Cahal has left the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Valery has an amused look for the sleeping Rowenova and she stands up, reaching again for the teacup and walking around, offering a second round of the tea. "If anyone doesn't like it so much, I can make any other tea."

Kiko, a Kite of the Cloudspine have been dismissed.

Hickory, the Deerhound have been dismissed.

Russel, a Blackram Retainer have been dismissed.

1 House Lyonesse Adept Guards have been dismissed.

When Nova declares her napping, Rosa decides otherwise. With a large grin on her face, she starts poking at her,"Hey. Hey you!"

Glancing up to Valery with a flash of a smile, Sunaia - sitting with the others at the picnic table - responds politely, "Oh, I think the tea is very nice, thank you. I wouldn't mind another cup, if I may?" She looks to Jyri, Ringvald, Tolv and Donella, "Would anyone else like more?"

Ringvald raises his thinly gloved hand, and gives a small smile at the offer of tea. "Yes, if I could."

"WAIT. You were supposed to be my ride back?" Porter calls after to Rorik when he suddenly departs. But he calls out too late and his cousin is gone. "Oh, well. I guess I just have to walk myself back. The horror." He turns back to Alessia as he reaches for the cup of tea again. "I have to take care of some duties today. But how about tomorrow afternoon?"

Donella rises from her seat at the modest picnic table. She rises with straight backed elegance and a small smile upon her features. It is here that her deep blue eyes roam to look for her next speaking companion.

Donella has left the a modest picnic table.

"But of course." Valery fills the cups when they ask for more tea.

"Where?" Alessia asks, still not taking a beverage herself, rarely a tea person. "Preferably not the Lowers given the times." She says with a rueful smile.

Donella is overheard praising Porter.

Donella is overheard praising Eleanor.

When Donella rises from the picnic table, Sunaia rises followingly, dips her head and curtsies with prim grace. "It was good to meet you finally, Your Highness," she politely smiles, then returns to her seat at the picnic table and resumes the conversation with the others.

Donella is overheard praising Alessia.

Donella is overheard praising Rowenova.

Ringvald is overheard praising Donella.

Donella is overheard praising Jyri.

Donella is overheard praising Ringvald.

Donella is overheard praising Sunaia.

Donella is overheard praising Rosalind.

Donella is overheard praising Denica.

Donella is overheard praising Tolv.

Ringvald is overheard praising Valery.

Donella is overheard praising Tikva.

"Was it the lowers last time?" Porter wonders, thinking back. Apparently he can't quite recall, but then again he's frequently wandering all over the city. "Lady's choice. Your pick a location and I'll be there."

Tikva has left the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

"No." Alessia says with a faint smile. "I was just making sure." She rises from her seat, resting a hand on his shoulder. "I'll see you there."

Jyri has left the a modest picnic table.