Gianna has found herself a small chunk of chocolate, which she is enjoying as the last touches to the obstacle course are set up. She arches an eyebrow at Evaristo, noting, "I won't be able to even try that unless I do something with this dress. I'm curious as to why an obstacle course of all things, but it should be fun."

"Well, it's built to, ah, work for MOST clothing," Evaristo reassures, but his eyes shift about a little. "Might want to hike it up a bit? But it will be FINE, just FINE. I went through it pretty easy. What could possibly go wrong?" He is dressed in a very PINK shirt, perhaps he is hoping to match Berenice a little, what with her fondness of pink diamonds? Or it's just a coincidence.

Finn the large Northern hunting dog with icy blue eyes, Rocco, the rascally assistant arrive, following Thea.

Berenice is here! The party may begin. Something something. She sweeps into the hall of the Bard's College in a seasilk gown of warm blue, watercolor florals of complementary colorings painted across the silk. Her hair, makeup, and poise is as perfectly arranged as one would expect from her, and her red-painted lips curve into a warm smile as she sees Gianna and Evaristo. "Ah! My darling protege, and the /woman of the hour/. I understand it is now publicly Gianna /Delvecchio/, which I hope has been freeing for you. But--" And she peers at the obstacle course arrangements. "/What/ is /that/?"

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

"Darling, it doesn't hike UP," Gianna tells Evaristo. "One side is already very up." She peers down at herself. "Perhaps if I took the longer end and wrapped it between my legs, though really, it's beautiful and I'd hate to --- Princess Berenice. I'm so glad you made it. And yes. Yes, it has been very freeing for me. And I owe you in part for that." Gianna is standing over by the obstacle course, just finishing a piece of chocolate, wine glass in her other hand.

There is Berenice indeed - Evaristo stands with Gianna, overlooking the strange obstacle course built in a part of the hall, while discussing the upcoming night's games. He opens his mouth to give some suggestions, but then there she is, his patron and he just loses the thread to admire her openly and with a growing warm and somewhat dopey smile. "Hmm?" he says distractedly to Gianna. "Your highness, my lovely patron, you look as ravishing as always." He bows to Berenice and then gives her a little playful wink. "This is the PHYSICAL part of tonight's game - it is truly not that difficult." That's a dubious statement. It looks like it's pretty hard - least if you want to rush through it. And the game rules on the vellum poster clearly states the game is also a TIMED game.

Coming in a bit late, because well--reasons! Thea comes strolling in back straight, but her eyes displaying the usual mischievious behavior she's sometimes known for. With a slight smile on her lips and a bow of her head, she greets Gianna,"Happy retirement day,"her words already trailing with whatever all that is. Sorry Evaristo and Berenice! "So you're saying I should have just stuck to my leathers and I'll be hiking up my gown while I'm here..." Not even really a question but a statement.

Evaristo gets Nightingale Gianna's Whisper Retirement Game.

Gianna tilts her chin up and peers at Berenice's gown. "That's quite lovely," she says. "As expected, of course. The floral painting must be an incredible amount of work. I wonder if it makes it more difficult to clean." Berenice has PEOPLE for such things, Gianna. She inclines her head to Thea, then, raising her glass. "Thank you, Lady Thea. I'm pleased you could make it. That's beautiful lace."

Evaristo drops Nightingale Gianna's Whisper Retirement Game.

"You owe me nothing for that," Berenice tells Gianna with a warming smile. "It was what /you/ were owed. House Velenosa does not forget those who assist in our pursuits and endeavors. I am only pleased to see you flourishing in these new steps of your life." She draws up to Evaristo's side to slip her hand through his arm in a comfortable little gesture of possessiveness. "I am /not/ doing an obstacle course, Evaristo," she tells him, however. Her hand smooths down her skirts with a pleased smile for Gianna's compliment, and she laughs as she says, "I'm sure I couldn't say." She really couldn't. Who knows how hard it is to make things or clean them? Not her.

Mirk strides into main hall, waving off his assistant, who departs to wait for him outside. That leaves him alone, without his usual entourage, dressed in steelsilk and fireweave with charms dangling from his beard. "Nightingale," he says in a low rumble with a dip of his head towards Gianna. "It's been too long since I've seen you. And since I've seen most of your company," he nods to the others, Berenice and Thea familiarly, Evaristo out of mere politeness. "What's this I hear about a game?"

Evaristo bows to Thea and gives her a wide and friendly smile. "Lady Thea! It is very nice to see you again - is it just me, or are we running into each other all the time lately? Clearly we both have excellent taste," he says and grins mischievously. He squeezes Berenice's arm closer to himself and glances sideways at her, a look of utter adoration, before he turns to stare at the obstacle course. "I suppose we COULD make it so that you have to complete two out of three?" he says. "OH yes, that works just as well, really." He waves a hand, then peeks curiously at Mirk and half-bows as he's keeping Berenice's arm there, so a full bow is a bit awkward. "My lord, I am Mockingbird Evaristo Arterius - I will oversee some games for the evening. The rules are there on the poster, but we'll wait awhile before we begin."

Realizing there are indeed others, Thea forces her attention from the game. "Messere Evaristo, hello,"Thea says with a smile. "I agree. It seems to be so. We should stop to continue meeting this way." Looking to Berenice, the Malvici notices her as well. How could she not. Ev is clinging to her. "Princess Berenice. Nice to see you." Turning to Mirk at his entrance, Thea gives a slight wave,"Lord Mirk, how are you? I haven't see you in quite some time? How have you been?"

5 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor arrive, following Valdemar.

Seryna, a charming Lycene handmaiden, 6 Grimhall House Guards arrive, following Vanora.

Gianna turns toward Mirk and there's a brief hint of an upward tilt to the corners of her lips. "Lord Mirk, you came. Yes, far too long. Would you like some wine? Something else, perhaps?" She tilts her head to the side before casting her gaze about for some youngling bard who's been stuck with drink duty.

Vanora arrives on her husband's arm, looking over the decorations and the drinks with a smile. "I'm so delighted for her, I know this is what she wanted. Shall we find the object of celebration first, or mingle elsewhere a little and then say hello?" She asks him.

Evaristo also hastily scribbles over the top of the vellum to let it read 'two out of three parts of the game'. Cause he changed things in the last minute.

"Lady Thea, a pleasure," Berenice greets her. When she sees Mirk enter and approach, her smile brightens with a most pleasant surprise. "Lord Mirk! My word, it has been /ages/. How have you /been/?" And then she gasps a bit. "Oh! You are not acquainted with my dear protege? Well, I suppose he has introduced himself. Evaristo, this is Lord Mirk Halfshav. He is quite an /interesting/ man."

"Is it? Then I am happy for her as well," Valdemar responds to his wife as they enter the room. There is a slight smile on his face as he glances around, dressed in somewhat brighter colors than one might expect. When he turns back to Vanora, he answers, "We may as well find her first and offer our congratulations."

"Ah, thank you," Mirk says with a nod, turning to look at the poster for a moment, eyes skimming the rules even as he continues speaking. "And a pleasure, Evaristo. I'm Mirk Halfshav." No title, but a subtle emphasis on his family name makes it clear enough what the title would be, even if he hadn't just been addressed as Lord Mirk. Once he's read the poster, he raises an eyebrow. "Normally, I prefer to bet on who would win from the sidelines, but I might actually participate in this one." That said, he answers the ladies with, "I've been well enough. Keeping to myself perhaps more than I should, but at least this is a good occasion to start remedying that. And how are you both?" To Gianna, he adds, "Wine would be lovely, thank you. And how are you liking this new transition? From Whisper and Nightingale to just Nightingale."

A gaunt young man with oily black hair and ice blue eyes, 3 House Mazetti Guardians arrive, following Braith.

Seryna, a charming Lycene handmaiden have been dismissed.

6 Grimhall House Guards have been dismissed.

Evaristo is glued to Berenice's side, her arm around his and his attentions wavering between guests and her. Seeing Vanora and Valdemar he raises an arm in a wave and a grin of a greeting, then focuses on Mirk, studying the man with open curiosity. "A pleasure to meet you, Lord Mirk," he says and wouldn't dream of leaving out the Lord-title. "I believe the game allows for anyone to participate and it's got enough for all sorts of talents, I hope. In fact, Gianna, you should take part too. You're ALWAYS just judging anything I've done lately, it feels like. You DID miss the Spider Petting Zoo games though, I'm sure you feel very sad about not being able to be here."

Gianna waves over a young bard and collects a glass of wine from her tray to give to Mirk. "Oh, you'll be participating? Wonderful." Spying Valdemar and Vanora, Gianna tips her chin up and raises her glass. Turning her attention back to Mirk, she notes, "I adore the change. I missed my name, if that makes any sense." Evaristo's given a thoughtful look. "True. I mostly judge of late. But if I win, do I keep the prize? The sporting thing to do would be to give it to the runner-up." Gianna raises a hand to adjusts the twinkling mirrorsilver circlet of sapphires on her brow. She strikes quite a picture, holding her wine glass and looking proud.

"I've been well and busy." Thea answers Mirk with a smile. "My sister in law, Lady Kaia finally had her baby late last night as well. As well as my Aunt Eirene's up coming wedding reception. So Malvici itself is busy." Accepting a glass of wine, Thea brings it to her lips, greeting Vanora and Valdemra,"Duke and Duchess Grimhall. How are you?"

"I cannot imagine living without my name for as many years as you did," Berenice says, as if trying to even /imagine/ who she would be without her surname. And then she finds it an unpleasant thought, and so she stops. Obviously. "Oh, I am remarkably well, thank you," she tells Mirk, smile reappearing. "/Two/ of my brothers have just recently made their way to Arx, which is /such/ a delight; it has been ages since we were living in the same city together." Her gaze tracks the attention of several of the others to Valdemar and Vanora's entrance, and her smile widens again. "Duke and Duchess Grimhall, a /pleasure/ to see you again."


She's late for a very important date! Braith slows upon entrance and clears her throat. She glances towards the group and hurries their way, adjusting the cardian skin scarf about her neck. "Hello all," she greets warming, her dusky freckled cheeks dimpling as shenotes who is there. "Cousin," she greets Mirk and then moves to find a spot for herself near the Halfshav. A wink is offered to Evaristo before the Mazetti glances to Gianna. "Nightengale," she says warmly, inclining her head.


After speaking quietly with his wife for a moment, Valdemar continues on toward the cluster of people around Gianna while Vanora slips off in another direction. "Good day all, and congratulations Mistress Gianna," he greets everyone before explaining, "Vanora said she needed to check on something, but should join us soon." Taking a wineglass rom a passing tray, he then glances between Berenice and Thea, adding, "It is a pleasure to see you again as well, your Highness, and you, Lady Malvici."

Gianna inclines her head to Valdemar, noting, "I'm sure we'll catch up. Thank you both for coming. Do you like chocolate? I rather like chocolate, so I've made sure to have a selection." She gestures to one of the tables. There's fruit, too, but... chocolate. She adds to Berenice, "Of course, Whisper House was an enormous opportunity for me. And hello, Lady Braith. I'm glad you could make it. Will you be competing in Evaristo's game?"

"Wait wait, your BROTHERS? I would love to meet them," Evaristo says, perking up at the thought. He finds drinks for himself and Berenice, then looks up to see Braith there too and she's given a warm smile. "Lady Braith, good to see you. You ARE taking part in the games I hope? And you, Duke Valdemar, and Duchess Vanora too?" He sips some wine, then reassures Gianna; "If you win, I have a little extra prize, just for you. So the runner-up can get your prize," he suggests.

"You'll be participating as well? I'll definitely have to participate instead of bet, then," Mirk says in a dry tone to Gianna, accepting his glass of wine. "It'd be terrible manners to bet against the hostess, and terribly boring to bet on her." There's a chuckle and a shake of his head. To Berenice, he comments, "That must be an interesting time. I've recently welcomed a cousin to Arx, and it's surprising how much there is to catch up on, even after a few years' time. I can only imagine how much that's true with a pair of brothers." He returns the nod to Braith. "Ah, Cousin. Good to see you here. How have you been?"


"Wait, what is this game?" Braith asks first - best to ask. She nods though, "I suppose I can." She settles herself in, tossing dark curls back from her face before her attention shifts to Mirk, "I have been rather well. It is good to see you out. It always seems the summer is so busy along with it being almost entirely unbearably hot," she remarks, making a point by wiping her forehead. She wets her lips and rolls her shoulders back. "Prizes. What fun!"

"I am glad we were able to make it. And yes, I do enjoy chocolate sometimes," Valdemar answers Gianna, glancing over at the table she indicates. He then turns to Evaristo when asked a question about games, telling him, "I might, depending on what sort of game you're talking about. And though I cannot speak for my wife, she seems to be in a good mood, so she might be convinced." He then takes a long sip from his glass, his attention shifting from person to person as they speak.

"Ah, Lady Braith, lovely to see you again." Greetings, greetings, so many greetings. Berenice plucks up a glass of wine -- or, really, has one set into her hand, and laughs at Evaristo's reaction. "Yes, the twins," she says. "I think you'd especially enjoy Benedetto -- you two are rather similar in a few ways. He's marvelous fun at parties. Baldessare is a bit more /serious/. Although not excessively so, thank the gods." Her smile turns a touch wry as she looks back to Mirk. "Yes, I was catching up one of them just the other day. It is...quite a lot, isn't it?"

"Ooh," Gianna says, seeming very pleased with Evaristo. It's a sparkle to the eyes or something. "We should get started, then, don't you think?" Look, there are PRIZES to be won.

Thea has belated seen Braith come in and smiles over at her, lowering her glass. "Lady Braith. I haven't seen you in---Well. It's been a really long time. You've been well, yes?" But then she's all quiet because--games. Prizes. Thea's eyes are already looking over the obstacle course and things. "How did you come up with that thing anyway,"she asks Gianna.

Braith has joined the line.

Berenice has joined the line.

"DO they look exactly the same, so they pull pranks on people? I would, if I was an identical twin," Evaristo says, his priorities set straight clearly. "Well, let us hope I will meet them both soon!" He reluctantly releases Berenice's arm, as it seems the games should get started - nodding at Gianna, excitement in his gaze. "Well then! Let's get started! Please, take a look at the poster there with the rules - pick two of those challenges to do, and I will have some help timing it with time-glasses, and someone that judges that the answers are correct and so on." He gestures at a few bards there that will aid in keeping an eye on things. "So, as soon as you feel ready, line up and we'll get started. You can pick whichever game you want to start with."

Thea has joined the line.

Mirk has joined the line.

Gianna has joined the line.

Valdemar has joined the line.

Braith checked perception + riddles at difficulty 30, rolling 46 higher. Braith rolled a critical!

Braith checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 8 lower.

Braith checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 30, rolling 64 higher.

Braith checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 2 higher.

Turn in line: Braith

Turn in line: Berenice

Berenice checked perception + riddles at difficulty 30, rolling 17 lower.

Berenice checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 0 higher.

Berenice checked composure + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 6 higher.

Berenice checked luck at difficulty 20, rolling 8 lower.

Vanora has joined the line.

Turn in line: Thea


Braith glances to the others, "Lady Thea, indeed. Too long." Flashing teeth with a bright smile she turns her head to Berenice and gives her a nod of her head, "Your highness, always a pleasure." The Duke and Duchess both get a wink before she turns about and moves towards the puzzle game first. Best not to push herself right away in the obstacle course. She mmmms and begins to adjust the colors but instead of it making her stumble the bard manages to reposition a few pieces only before its all in place. "AH HA!" Even if she nearly dropped a piece there at the end.

Braith rolls back her shoulders as she looks triumphantly at Evaristo before heading for the obstacle course. She shrugs off her lute and setting it carefully down she begins through the swingng ropes. Her small form makes it an easy task and on she goes. Each robe and tunnel is taken with an alacrity that sees the Northern woman up at the other end and triumphant once more. Her face is flushed and already more sweat dots her brow. "Water...need water."

Thea checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 8 higher.

Thea checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 9 lower.

Thea checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 30, rolling 35 higher.

Thea checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 11 lower.

3 Grimhall House Guards arrives, following Sanya.

Evaristo is moving to the side to oversee things, relying more on his assistants when it comes to timing and correct answers but he is noting it all down onto a vellum sheet - so he does keep track of THAT. He's getting to be rather good at this game running thing. He looks quite impressed with Braith's speed there, and gives her an appreciative grin when she finishes. "Well done, Lady Braith! You set the bar high."

"Well. As long as I don't have to do some silly /obstacle course/." Puzzles are not exactly Berenice's forte, either, but at least they don't involve running and jumping around. She approaches the games after Braith has had her turn, taking a...well. A rather long time with the block puzzle, fussing fruitlessly with it until she finally heaves a sigh and waves it off dismissively. She takes to the game of diplomacy and questions of noble houses /far/ more readily, answering them with easy confidence that relies entirely upon her own breadth of knowledge. (Because she is certainly not very lucky about it.) In the end, she saunters her way back to Evaristo to retrieve her glass of wine and pluck up some chocolate to nibble on. "This is a /silly/ game," she says with a hint of a pout. (Sore loser.)

Turn in line: Mirk

Mirk checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 16 higher.

Mirk checked mana at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

Mirk checked composure + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 20 higher.

Mirk checked luck at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Quietly slipping into the hall, looking tired more than anything, Sanya swiftly brightens when she spots her cousin's among the gathered guests. She first stops by Gianna, naturally. "Congratulations, Nightingale. May this only be the beginning of your journey." She flashes a grin. Noting there is a game going on, she glances around, before heading where the others are gathered to await her turn.

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

Sanya has joined the line.

Tulip have been dismissed.

Evaristo does watch Berenice. Like, he just watches her, he probably barely notices her score, but scribbles it down when it's reported to him. "Your highness, you are always a winner," he tells her fondly.

As Thea chats away with people, drinking her wine, she hears her name called after Braith and Berenice have finished. She smiles and excuses her,"Pardon me,"and steps over to the puzzles. Right so...Puzzles aren't EXACTLY her strong suit, but here we are. Pushing all the colors and blocks around, she starts to strategize. "Damnit,"she mutters. That's not right. Thea starts over and after a beat, TADA! "Where's Martino or Kaia when you need them,"she mutters. Oh right..BABY!

Knowing her strong suit, even if she IS in a gown, Thea steps over to the obstacle course. Yep. She hikes her dress just so and ties it in a knot. OFF SHE GOES! This is classy right? Ladylike? Eirene and Caly taught her well. Ropes are swung, tunnels are crawled through. Nets are definitely climbed. The Malvici was definitely dodgy. By the time she made the end, she is sweaty but a smile is present on her face. Wiping the loose hair from her face, she bends down, unknots her gown and smooths it back down over her legs. "Done!" NOTHING TO SEE HERE FOKLS!

"Why thank you, Lady Sanya," Gianna says, raising her wine glass in the woman's direction. "I wouldn't stay it's the start, but it's an excellent note in a rather wonderful song." There are games afoot! Including an obstacle course, which is quite interesting to run in a gown.

Turn in line: Gianna

Gianna checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 7 higher.

Evaristo lets out a cheer for Thea as she finishes, his laughter clear - it IS entertaining to watch, and there's that element of stress with the timer part of it all.

Gianna checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 9 lower.

Lady Teonia Redreef, Aryka Wyrmfang, 3 Thrax Guards, Marquessa Pudding, a doughy dog, 2 Thrax Elite Guards arrive, following Sorrel.

Gianna checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 30, rolling 17 higher.

Gianna checked luck at difficulty 20, rolling 3 lower.

Sorrel has joined the line.

Gianna glances thoughtfully at the obstacle course. There is just no running it in that outfit. Not without showing even MORE leg and there is a LOT of leg on display to begin with. So she starts with the coloured blocks puzzle, eyes narrowing with concentration as she, well, puzzles it out. It's not a particularly fast time, but the coloured blocks are sorted and then she's on to the House trivia. This, she does better at: there's the Whisper training, and while she may have retired, there are some things you don't forget. All in all, not a very impressive performance, but she looked FABULOUS doing it.

Mirk watches those before him try their hand at the game, a little apprehensive. He's more accustomed to watching others attempt it than participating himself. When it comes to his turn, he sets to work on the puzzle. He's not as swift Braith was, but he works steadily, shuffling around the blocks until he's satisfied with his results and nods his head in approval. THen it's on to the quiz, where he fares a little better, remembering enough of the trivia of the various Houses of the Compact. There's a slight frown, near the end, as if bothered by the fact that he's doing so well at this.

Turn in line: Valdemar

Valdemar checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 15 higher.

Valdemar checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 0 higher.

Valdemar checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 30, rolling 15 higher.

Valdemar checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 10 lower.

Symonesse arrives in the company of the King's Own. Once in the hall, she gives a slight nod to the guards and they move into whatever positions they have been trained to get into to best protect royalty. She stops to watch as the games are being played, a smile curving her lips as she observes, but seems disinclined to join in herself. The Queen hangs back for the moment, particularly as the guest of honor is currently engaged in playing, before trying to offer a greeting.


Having finished her games first, Braith is wiping at her brow and tugging at her glossy jasmine oiled dark curls as she watches the others, cheering Thea and then Mirk on. "Well done," she commends Berenice as well. Her eyes fixate on Gianna when it is her turn but as Sanya steps in she smiles and waves a hello to the woman she does not know. The Queen however is known and she dips into a bow in greeting across the room. The Sanna watchs Mirk with interest, a grin pulling at her lips as she heads over towards Evaristo to peer over his shoulder at what he is scrabblign down on paper.


Evaristo scribbles down the scores on his sheet, and looks up to watch Mirk and Gianna - they are given cheers and applauds from across the room, like all contestants. As more people filter in, he calls out about the game, smiling charmingly, bowing to the newcomers and being his usual cheerful self. The Queen - well, his eyes widen in some awe and she is given a deep bow from over there, and a warm and kind smile.

Turn in line: Vanora

In line to take her own turn, Vanora cheers her husband on when it is his, but then notices the arrival of Queen Symonesse to whom she offers a deep and respectful curtsy.

Vanora checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 26 higher.

Vanora checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 4 higher.

Thea spies Symonesse and curtsies. She straightens as she greets her,"Your Majesty. Hello." Her eyes watch the others as well, enjoying all of it. It's obvious in the flecks of gold in her green eyes. "Lady Sanya. Hello to you too." Thea's focus is all over at this moment. It's amazing how she is able to pay attention right now.

Vanora checked composure + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 19 higher.

Vanora checked luck at difficulty 20, rolling 10 lower.

When Valdemar's turn comes up, he sets aside his glass of wine and approaches the colored blocks first, looking them over for a moment before deliberately beginning to place them. He does manage to finish in a decent amount of time, though others are likely to complete the task faster than he. The obstacle course is next for him, and once again his progress is steady rather than remarkably quick. It is not until he is done here that he notices the entrance of the Queen, and bows to her deeply. Only then does he seek out his drink again.

Turn in line: Sanya

Sorrel is here late, but she's here! And she seems quite cheerful to be, indeed, offering a smile and a nod to the assembled party. And, of course, a curtsey to the Queen. She heads over towards Gianna with a beaming smile.

Standing in line behind the duchess, Sanya smiles with a hint of pride when her cousin completes his challenges. She turns in the direction of the approaching queen, before curtsying. "Your majesty." She greets respectfully. "It's lovely to have you gracing us with your presence." She smiles at Braith, when she sees her greeting. Before long, it's her turn.

Sanya checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 9 lower.

Sanya checked mana at difficulty 20, rolling 1 lower.

Sanya checked composure + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 60 higher. Sanya rolled a critical!

Sanya checked luck at difficulty 20, rolling 12 lower.

Berenice gives Braith a bit of a /bland/ look for her commendation; it is clear she doesn't think she performed very well at all in the games, particularly in comparison to others. "Really, just a /terrible/ game," she grumps at poor Evaristo like a brat. The entrances of new party guests are a welcome distraction: her smile warms considerably when she sees Sorrel, offering a bright, "Princess Sorrel, such a delight to see you again!" Her reaction to Symonesse is perhaps somewhat muted in its effusiveness by comparison, but there is nothing out of place in the depth, grace, and perfection of her curtsy. "Your highness. An honor to have you in attendance."

Gianna checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Turn in line: Sorrel

Gianna never relinquished her wine glass - that's the joy of not doing the obstacle course, really. She blinks a few times when she realizes the King's Own have arrived and turns to seek out the reason for them being here. Ah. Symonesse. Gianna tilts her head to the side, mostly covering up her surprise and a hint of glee. A wee hint of glee. She curtsies to the Queen, elegant as a Whisper but with her own last name again. "Your Majesty," she greets. And straightening up, she raises her glass to Sorrel. "Princess Sorrel, so glad you could come. Now go thrash that game."

Sorrel checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 30, rolling 14 higher.

Sorrel checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Sorrel checked composure + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 1 higher.

Sorrel checked luck at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

"I think you're winning," Mirk comments to Braith after he's done with his turn at the game. "Certainly I'm not." There's a low chuckle there, not in the least bothered by not being at the head of the pack. He folds his arms over his chest and settles in to watch the rest of the competitors. "What do you think?"

The line has been dismissed by Evaristo.

Vanora spends some time with the puzzle, and it goes well enough until a flash of insight has her finishing more quickly than she expected. She performs less impressively on the quiz about various noble houses, which is a surprise and a disappointment, but apparently her information on changes in the mainland is particular spotty. Ah well. Upon completion she steps out of line to watch the rest.

"My pleasure, Your Highness," Sorrel says to Berenice with a warm smile, then motions brightly to the game at hand. "I need to go attempt to thrash a game," she indicates with a laugh, sounding quite amused. And she is dexterous, willful, composed, and lucky, when it comes to these things and playing the game. And when she is done, she grabs a glass to toast to Gianna. "To the best Nightingale!"

Puzzles are in no way Sanya's forte, though she does try her best. In the end, she does arrange them but not at all in order of color. She laughs, knowing she has blundered that challenge. The house quiz on the other hand, she was pretty confident with from the get go. But even so, she completes the challenge remarkably well, answering the questions almost before they're finished.

With a smile that is delighted, but still a touch subdued, Symonesse returns the offered greetings with a dip of her head. She directs her attention to cheering on those that compete. She looks to Berenice and says quietly, "I had heard that Mistress Gianna was retiring from the Whispers and wanted to come wish her well myself." After Gianna greets her, Symonesse approaches the Nightingale and says with a slightly more cheerful smile, "I am afraid that I cannot stay long, but I wanted to wish you the greatest of success in your future ventures, Mistress Delvecchio. If there is anything I can to help you in the future, please do not hesitate to reach out to me personally." She leans in a touch closer and murmurs a few lower pitched words to Gianna.


Braith moves closer to Thea to speak with her after their venture through the puzzles to keep herself from spying all too readily on the scores that Evaristo is looking at. "Well done," she says to the Malvici, her smile growing. "I can see you are quick, my lady. How have you been?" She asks pleasantly, glancing to the others. "Evaristo always makes these events so interesting and invigorating." She does consider something to drink, glancing around to find the location of libations.


Gianna nods to Symonesse and tilts her head to better hear the monarch. Whatever is said makes Gianna blink, multiple times, and those who do not know her better might suspect she is somewhat... emotional? She murmurs something back.

Evaristo tries to tip the vellum away from prying eyes, but Braith might've gotten a nice look there for a moment. He mock-glares at her, then just grins and notes down the scores as they're brought over by the assistants. He cheers for everyone and shouts encouragements. It seems Sorrel will be the last to go, so he looks at her with anticipation as she moves through it, then notes down her score too before he doublechecks it all to make sure he got the numbers right. "Welllll," he says, glancing at Gianna. "I am afraid you did not win, Nightingale Gianna Delvecchio. Your highnesses, lords and ladies, goodmen and goodwomen, thank you all for participating in a game of good cheer and fun! I hope you all enjoyed it. We DO have a winner, and perhaps you will not be surprised to hear that... Lady Braith Mazzetti won!"

Thea has already gotten another glass of wine. That was a workout. Turning to Braith, she grins,"You as well. I swear that was the second obstacle I've climbed in the last couple of weeks. Though at the least the first I had on pants." Lifting her glass, she tells Braith,"I've been always on moving it seems. One brother or the other seems to need help, so I've been assisting. Then projects spread out everywhere. How about yourself?"

Symonesse swallows and even she is looking a bit brighter in the eyes as she nods and then says a little more brightly, "I don't mean to spoil your party. Just keep what I said in mind. And congratulations." The Queen steps aside and offers her own applause as the winner of the competition is announced.

"Congratulations." Sanya applauds the Mazetti when she's announced the winner. "A pity that I missed your turn." She smiles softly, before introducing herself. "Lady Sanya Grimhall, it's a pleasure." She turns to the harlequin. "Now that was fun." She sounds pleased, lifting a glass of wine from a tray.

The exchange between the Queen and Gianna catches Vanora's attention and pale green eyes go curious, but she doesn't stare, turning her focus to Evaristo as he announces the winners of the game. Her hands lift in polite applause for the Lady Mazetti's victory, and she adds to Evaristo. "They were delightful games. Did you arrange them? It seems I need to brush up on my knowledge of the Houses of the Compact. It was the Oathlands that tripped me up." A sigh.

Berenice's gaze shifts subtly between Symonesse and Gianna; it is clear that the weight and emotion of their exchange is not lost upon her. But she simply sips her wine and offers no comment. "Well, in fairness, they are the least entertaining to study," she comments to Vanora with a hint of returning humor.

Thea catches a brief glimpse of the Queen and Gianna and moment of curiosity crossers her features. She politely turns away, especially when she hears Braith's name. Nudging the Mazetti, Thea smiles at her,"Hey. Congratulations!" she cheers, toasting her as well. There goes half of that wine Thea had.

Gianna offers the barest hint of a ghost of a smile to the queen - the QUEEN - and clears her throat gently. She claps her hands twice, lightly. "Madialaena? Yes, thank you." The brunette assistant hastens forward with a rather lovely bottle in hands. Gianna graciously takes it from the young woman and brings it to Braith, offering it out. "Well done. If it couldn't be me, I'm glad it was a bard, my lady. Please enjoy this."


Braith speaks with Thea, her smile ever present and she nods, "My brother is back in town and I think already his contract to wed is in the process of happening. Siblings are delightful," she admits with a grin. "But it is my Lord Husband I must watch out for. Swords, they are trouble." She says with wink. But then she quickly looks up at the congratulations. "Ohh, well..thank you. And you Lady Sanya. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," the curly haired bard remarks. She brows again, "To Evaristo, for his lovely games and to the Nightengale. Ths day is your day." She says but as she blinks and looks at the bottle, only to begin laughing. "This is perfect. Another thing to torment my brandy loving husband with." She inclines her head to Gianna. "Thank you, Nightengale. I will, in your honor."


Vanora grins at Berenice's comment, nodding her head in agreement. "It's true. The least entertaining by far. My mother is entertaining, and was born Blanchard, but 'entertaining' isn't really the best word for her, and she stood out a bit in the Oathlands, I think."

"Congratulations, Cousin," Mirk says with a nod of his head to Braith. There's just a hint of a smile on his lips. "That looks like a prize to save for special occasions, for sure. Perhaps for catching up with your brother?" He turns to Evaristo and says, "Your game seems to have gone well. My compliments on it; it's a rare game where I actually feel the need to compete instead of watch from the sidelines."

Evaristo applauds and cheers, raising his glass in a toast for it and then drinks most of it down. His part is done and he can start relaxing and drinking for real, turning back to socialise with people; he is giving Gianna and Symonesse openly curious looks, but doesn't butt in - even if DOES look tempted to badger Gianna with questions. "Gianna - I..." He falters a bit, and looks a bit sheepish. "I guess I just want to say I am glad we'll likely see even MORE of you now, so selfishly I am pleased you retired from the Whispers." He perks up at the praise from Mirk, and tugs at the lapel of his shirt, mock-humble. "Why, thank you! I've been hosting a LOT of games lately - to be honest I'm starting to near run out of IDEAS, but if anyone does need help with games, I might be able to come up with something."

Gianna blinks again. Lots of blinking, for the very composed Nightingale. "Thank you, Ev," she tells the Mockingbird. "That's sweet of you to say." She adds, to Mirk, "Evaristo's the very best at games. I've rather lost count of how many times he's made some party or another better with one."

Evaristo gets Nightingale Gianna's Whisper Retirement Game.

Braith is overheard praising Evaristo: Well done hosting. Your games are always a delight.

Evaristo is overheard praising Gianna: Nightingale Gianna is a boon to Arx!

Braith is overheard praising Gianna: Three cheers for the Nightengale!

Symonesse is overheard praising Evaristo.

Evaristo is overheard praising Braith: Well played and well won!

Mirk is overheard praising Evaristo.

Symonesse is overheard praising Gianna.

Mirk is overheard praising Braith.

Mirk is overheard praising Gianna.

Symonesse is overheard praising Braith.

Vanora is overheard praising Gianna.

As she makes her way to the door, Symonesse gives Evaristo a friendly little shoulder pat in passing and then gives Sorrel a bright smile and a wink. She might snag herself at least one piece of chocolate before the King's Own close rank around her to see her out.

Sorrel is overheard praising Gianna.

Walking up to Gianna now that the games are over, Vanora greets her friend with an airy near-kiss to each cheek. "I can't linger for very long, Gianna, but I wanted to express my congratulations. I know so much of what you've worked for and to watch it come together is beautiful and inspiring. If you are a Nightengale you are the rarest sort of all." Her smile is warm and affectionate, and she tucks a little pouch into Gianna's hand before moving aside.

5 King's Own Guardsmen leaves, following Symonesse.

"Thank you," Gianna murmurs to Vanora, after reciprocal air-kisses. They are so posh. "Completely unecessary, but i love it, of course." She raises her glass to the Grimhall, though she pauses when she realizes it's empty. "Oh." Thankfully, someone comes to hand her another one immediately. And she is so smugly pleased.

"I can see why," Mirk replies to Gianna with a low chuckle. "If they're all like that." There's another approving nod to Evaristo. "I might take you up on that, if anyone ever persuades me to host a party. They haven't succeeded yet, though." He sips at his wine and sits down, relaxed, before commenting, "Quite the electic collection of people for your retirement party, Gianna. What's next, now that you've retired from the Whispers and can focus wholly on the Bard's College?"

"I'm afraid I must be leaving as well. I have meetings and such." Boring, but someone has to do it. She looks to Gianna and smiles again,"Congratulations again. From all of us at Malvici. I know Martino and Kaia wanted to come, but well--new baby and all." Thea looks around and waves to all the others gathered,"It was nice to see you all again. I'm sure it will be again soon."

Evaristo looks stunned as the Queen touches his shoulder and it's with a thoughtful look he watches her leave, but then he smiles and moves back to Berenice's side, hovering there with a drink and some chocolate. "Maybe I should start hiring myself out as a game host," he muses sort of to himself. He bows to Vanora, smiling wide at her. "Duchess, it was a pleasure to see you again. I will contact you soon, I... well, I once won a prize at your OWN very entertaining game that I remember very fondly, that I have yet to claim. But, I will reach out soon."

Finn the large Northern hunting dog with icy blue eyes, Rocco, the rascally assistant leave, following Thea.


"Thank you, cousin," Braith says to Mirk. She is looking down at the bottle, her finger smoothing over the label. She smiles at Thea as she moves to depart and the Mazetti moves towards Evaristo to give him a quick hug and whisper something before she gives the bottle a little shake and takes her nail upon it. "Congratulations, Nightengale. I will be sure to stop by with my own gift at another time. Enjoy your day, you deserve it." She lifts up the bottle. "I need to be away as well. I have to meet someone for the evening meal." She lifts her free hand in parting but is curiously looking over the bottle as she makes her way out.

"I would love that." Vanora smiles at Evaristo. "I've been considering hosting something similar again soon, you'll have to give me your thoughts."

A gaunt young man with oily black hair and ice blue eyes, 3 House Mazetti Guardians leave, following Braith.

"You really ought, to darling," Berenice says with a bright laugh to Evaristo when he muses over offering freelance game host services. "You're always rather good at it. Certainly I speak from the experience of those few events we have hosted together."

Gianna looks thoughtfully at Evaristo as she selects another bit of chocolate for herself and begins to nibble. "Now, when you say you had a prize for me..."

5 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor leave, following Valdemar.

Evaristo checked dexterity + legerdemain at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

Evaristo grins at Mirk. "Well, if you hire ME to run the games, you get all the glory and none of the work," he suggests - sounds like he's serious, and tempted to TRY to convince Mirk now, now that he said nobody has. He leans in to listen to Braith, and the Mazzetti lady is given a warm smile and a hug back before she leaves. "My most splendid, radiant patron - YOU taught me how to run a game efficiently, so I give you credit for it." He turns to Gianna and looks absolutely mock-confused for a moment, teasing her. "Wait, did I? I don't recall... oh WAIT, yes, I remember now... Hmm, where DID I put it?" He starts patting himself down, moving closer to Gianna and reaching past her momentarily to set his glass down on a table behind her. "Excuse me, I KNOW I have it here somewhere... Hang on, wait a moment. HOW did you get hold of THAT?!" he asks and pretends shock as he points to golden sun pendant that suddenly just hangs off of her shoulder, somehow.

Gianna glances down at her shoulder and scoops the pendant up to examine it. "Oooh!" she says, eyes gleaming. She is greedy. She is so greedy. "Thank you, Evaristo." She leans over to brush her lips against his cheek in a chaste sort of kiss. It's affectionate.

"Ah, well." Berenice's tosses her hair in a little (highly pretend) show of modesty when Evaristo compliments her /party game efficiency/. "I do what I can," she says airily. Amusement brightens her eyes as Evaristo manages to slip that gift onto Gianna's shoulder, and she laughs aloud at her reaction. "How very /mysterious/!" she says, eyes wide. "It appeared out of nowhere!"

Evaristo is as mischievous as a ten year old having done a prank, but leans in for the kiss, and winks at Gianna - his gaze is warm and fond, but that fondness is of friendship, nothing more - that much is obvious. The two have worked together for some years now, and maybe they do know each other. A little. "Hah! Clearly Gianna is a TRICKSTER of the highest degree. Very impressive, Nightingale."

Mirk just waves off Evaristo's argument, saying, "I ought to be going.." He does take a look at the golden sun pendant, raising an eyebrow at Gianna. "Gifts and games. You've certainly had quite the retirement party. I ought to be heading back to Halfshav Hall, but you and I should catch up properly soon. Until then, I wish you and the Bard's College all the best."

"I'm glad you came, Lord Mirk," Gianna tells the Halfshav, and she does seem pleased. "We will. Catch up properly, that is." She looks between Evaristo and Berenice and notes, "I'm even more clever than I thought. And I assure you I think I am very clever indeed."

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

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