The Second arrives, following Margerie.

The Second have been dismissed.

Harlen arrives, following Duarte.

The Judgement Green is almost always filled with people day or night, meandering about. Sometimes people spouting off their greivances, others settling them with on the spot duels. It's turning to the evening though, and clouds dot a sky that's starting to transition to night and brazier keep things lit upon the ground. Musicians wander while playing music in time with each other despite the vast distances and canopied areas that can have sheer silk curtains closed off are filled with people coming and going, conversing and enjoying themselves. It's no royal crown masquerade, all would agree, but it takes the place of that which was canceled and likely to be moved to another date. Laughter abounds from corners where people play games and one has to carefuly dodge grown adults and teenagers using their hands or sticks to move wheeled 'boats' across the perimeter of the grounds, lest they get knocked over. It's a night of frivolity for all. Drinks and food on the house, so to speak.

This is the first time that Hamil has actually visited the fields. Someday, he hopes to be charging across them in full armor. But for now, as he walks the field, he kneels down to run his fingers into the grass and feels it before he pushes himself to his feet and starts to make his way forward to join the festivities, once he finds a place to settle.

Alarissa drops A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Adrienne Valardin nearly gets run over by a 'boat'. Isn't this an interesting start to the evening? Baffled, she skirts away from the unwary 'captain' to cross the field. Alarissa is spotted, greeting given with a respectful tip of her head, before a wandering musician joins another to fill their corner of the grounds with music.

Adrienne has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Strolling into the Green by herself, accompanied only by her mountain dog Maurice, Thalamina gazes about with all the wide-eyed wonder of someone still somewhat new to the city. She's wearing a lovely gown of bronzed silk, her long fiery mane tamed today in a long braid twined with strands of seed pearls. Her cobalt eyes dart here and there, taking in everything with an air of curiosity. She wanders over toward the canopied seating, drawn by their colors, searching for a place where she can sit and observe for a time. The dog follows at her heels, sniffing the air, eyes alert.

Thalamina has joined the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Thea has joined the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

Margerie has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Dio emerges from the night onto the Judgment Green, draped in an imperious umbra robe of the Lycene style. It is less than a breath before the pirate lord is in possession of a glass of rum. He steps onto a wheeled boat - which happens to nearly strike Adrienne, with the 'captain' in such a merry state. Dio laughs softly. "Sorry, Love," he offers in the stead of the wild teen piloting the errant ship. He takes a long drink from his rum, allowing the the craft to take him where it may.

Orick has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Hamil has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

2 Bone Wardens arrives, following Halla.

Hans the Helpful, 3 Bone Wardens, Halla arrive, following Magnus.

Strolling into the field, still in her garb from the earlier service, though now with more bedazzle, Alessia offers smiles to familiar faces. She glances toward the canopied areas with marked interest.

"Marquise, have you commissioned one of my ships to shuttle you from canopy to canopy?" Alarissa calls out, making her way from seating area to seating area but noticing the Seraceni duke nearly bowling over the Valardin. "You'll have to buy it if you want to take it home, but I am fair certain that you own far better!" And she turns then to the green and blue canopy, easing down.

Alarissa has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Alarissa has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Alarissa has joined the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

After getting some work done and a rather somber afternoon, Thea makes her appearance with Finn. The dog who forgets he's a dog. Her fingers curl around the paper and she looks at it curiously before she makes her around, a glass of vodka already in hand. There's already a smile on the Malvici's lips as she greets those she knows, maybe a wave...

Siri, an attentive apprentice, Paris, a charming mercenary, 2 Keaton Huntsmen, Nomius, a deeply skeptical bloodhound arrive, following Apollo.

Siri, an attentive apprentice have been dismissed.

2 Keaton Huntsmen have been dismissed.

Drake arrives on the green. It seems like a fine day to be outside, and he could use the clear air as well as the potential for free drinks. He's in a nice silk shirt looking fairly comfortable and sans any kind of weapon. He dodges some children barreling through in a game of tag with a graceful sidestep.

Captivated by a pair of musicians, Adrienne nonetheless does not miss the exchange between Alarissa and rum-laden Dio. "If that is a shuttle, I am a horse," is Adrienne's mild quip. She glances to Dio on the boy's erratic course, apology accepted and no harm done.

With noone in the dancing area, Hamil decides to venture forth there. He may be alone at the moment, but it's a place to start. He doesn't feel like sitting at the moment, so is just swaying a little in time with the music. Yeah, there was a little headbob there.

When Halla arrives, it should come as little surprise that it's in Magnus' company. After all, even if the man were not her husband, he's one of a grand total of perhaps half a dozen people she actually knows in the capital city. Stormy gray eyes take in the green surrounds of the park and, even moreso, the silk decorations hanging as great canopies from rope and tree alike. "...You say this is where they have the duels?," she asks him, as though repeating a statement made only moments before. Clearly, it's a claim that sounds dubious at best, as far as she's concerned. This place is far too pretty to be the site of so much spilled blood.

Dio laughs warmly, hopping off his 'ship,' and offering a graceful Lycene bow to the Princess. "I commandeered that vessel and almost had reason to regret it, Your Highness," he says smiling. "Seeing as no harm was done, I will say I plan to go nowhere tonight save the dancing grounds unless it be by one of your marvelous ships. The Green looks beautiful. An evening of reverie is most appreciated."

Having arrived right on time, Margerie spends a few minutes surveying the festivities and watching others arrive before plucking a drink from one of the wandering servers and making her way towards a seat.

Thalamina settles down under the blue and purple canopy, and directs her dog to sit down next to her among the plush cushions. She tucks her feat up next to her, arranging her skirts about her in a seemly fashion. Then she peers at the treats and finger foods displayed before her on the table. She eventually selects one, and snags a server to request a mug of cider. Once she has both cider and snack, she settles back among the cushions, and watches the goings-on through her lashes.

Apollo comes in with Adalyn on his arm, smiling; he looks cheerful, and is speaking absently in approving tones. "...match better, anyway. I wonder if the baroness is here yet." He cranes to see, watching if he can pick her out of the crowd. When he spots her, he gives a chin. "Have you got it?" he asks Adalyn, leading Margerie's way.

Monique appears on the Judgement Green entirely ready to be Judged, in a dress of opalescent lilac and ironwool, cut scandalousy short. Both inviting, and yet not! There's a radiant carmine smile on her lips as she pauses to watch the festivities, and then it's towards Dio that she heads, and Alarissa by extension. "Patron-mine, Princess Thrax of my heart," the Minx executes a flawless and possibly slightly flashing curtsey. "This is some incredible excitement for the evening!"

Alarissa lifts her wine glass to Monique at the canopy she rests momentarily at.

Kiera looks about . Her dress is a simple liwhite cotton one-piece, obviously not her planned ball attire and looks about to see where seating can be found until she sees Hamil alone on the ddance floor and after grabbing a lemonade from a passing server heads that way

Alessia has joined the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Kiera has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

"So I'm told." Magnus nods down at Halla, dressed in his finest...linens. Heat in the south is borderline unbearable for the types that live so close to the edge of the world, which the Marquis and Marquessa Stahlben just so happen to be. At least they're *finely stitched* linens. Clearly, there's a difference. "The important duels. Sometimes to the death, sometimes not. Often times it is a matter of Gloria or the Sentinel to decide." Another beat. "Again. So I'm told. I don't think there has been one in some time."

Briar, the fleet and agile shrike arrives, delivering a message to Apollo before departing.

Orick is not dressed in the same finery as many of the guests and he even carries his bag to the party, looking around as he goes and keeping a polite grin etched into his face. At a loss for familiar faces, he moves over and takes a seat by the wishing well and one of the brightly lit braziers. A fleeting glance is cast up at the light and then the party... ultimately he decides to take out a book and make use of the free light source. Orick pulls a pick book with a dry title out of his bag and quietly reads, glancing up everyone so often to smile fleetingly at the merriment that swirls around the area.

Normally when Adalyn arrives here, it's in armor with the intention of facing off against an opposing Champion. But today she has traded armor for a dress and flats, a rare sight indeed. She strolls into the area alongside Apollo, a small parcel tucked under her free arm. "Thank the gods for that," she remarks to her companion wit a grin. "Yes, I've got it right here." Her bright eyes search the crowd as they walk, her expression brightening as she spots Margerie among those gathered.

Orick takes Lonely Hearts: An Anthropologic Study of Romance and Duty in the Oathlands from leather satchel.

Alessia has left the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Thalamina has left the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Drake has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Alessia has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Thalamina has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Thea has left the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

Thea has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Alarissa has left the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

Alarissa has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Hamil has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Hamil has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Adrienne, talking companionably with Margerie while two musicians play sweet songs near them, looks past Margerie to Adalyn and Apollo. She lifts a hand in greeting.

Apollo has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

When Magnus and Halla enter the grounds, Thea tilts her head a moment. She however bows her head and greets them both. "Marquis, Marquessa. Good evening." Obviously the Malvici knows Magnus, but not the woman he's with. "Lady Thea Malvici. It's a pleasure to meet you,"she introduces herself with a slight smile..

Adalyn has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

An above ground boat race definitely captures Alessia's interest, and she makes her way to the well area. A wave is given to Monique when she spots her, her smile brightening.

"Radiant protege," says Dio warmly to Monique. "You look stunning," he states, not in the way one does when one is attempting flattery, but when conveys a cold, immutable fact. "Your Highness," says Dio to Alarissa, "There is a matter -" Anne Lucennia, the Seraceni first mate of the Osprey is quickly at Dio's side, and whispers a quiet word to the Marquis. His face is expressionless, but his dark eyes shift back to Alarissa and Monique. "My apologies, but it seems I must take my leave." He offers a brief bow, and turns with Anne to make his way from the Green.

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

Apollo wanders close to the red and white silk canopy with Adalyn, and ducks into the area, bowing to Adrienne and Margerie before greeting them in a voice reserved for the close area.

When the time for the boat race arrives, Thalamina eyes the boats, then she eyes her dog, then she eyes the people roaming about as she munches on her snack. "Well, Maurice... I guess it's just you and me representing House Shepherd today! Stay," she tells the dog, then she pops the rest of her snack in her mouth and sets her drink aside, before rising to her feet and walking over to where the others are gathering for the boat race. She puts her name in to 'sail' for House Shepherd. She peers down at her dress and plucks at it, as if now regretting wearing it.

There is a quiet laugh, a chuckle, that comes from Halla at his explanation. "I've seen enough duels to know how they are decided; I'm only surprised that they come here to do it and bleed on the King's flowers," she answers, tilting her head towards some of the landscaping. But. There is an introduction to be made, a thing which swiftly distracts her from whatever else she might've been about to say. "Halla," she begins, then stops. Then blinks for a moment. "Halla Stahlben." It seems the new Marquessa has not, in fact, quite gotten used to her new name. "You are from, ahhh.... Southport, yes?" she asks Thea after a moment, as if trying to dredge up from the memories of history books and studies long-past just which Lycene state is which.

Drake looks over toward Thea, nodding to here, and following her eye when she greets Marquis and Marquessa. "Marquessa Stahlben,' he says, with a raised eyebrow, perhaps trying to clarify - he seems slightly suprised. But there's less time for further introduction, as the race seems to be lining up by the wells. He jogs over that way, getting ready to stand with one of the wheeled boats ready.

Monique spies Alessia's wave and lifts her own hand to wave in return. "I'll be cheering for you tonight, Lady Alessia!" the Minx calls out with a bright smile. "If I had a favor, I'd beg you to wear it!" She watches Dio disappear but her regard is captured by the contest starting and she settles back to watch.

Drake checked stamina + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 38 higher.

Alessia checked stamina + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 83 higher.

A servant makes their way by the canopy holding Apollog, Magerie, Adrienne and Adalyn, the tray wobbling for a moment, looking like it might just fall off.

Adrienne checked dexterity at difficulty 10, rolling 22 higher.

"And that, I could not tell you." the look from Magnus is just a touch bit curious. "Perhaps there is some kind of importance to this place. That's...would be my guess. I really should the city better." There's a moment of consideration. "Sounds like a military chant." Turning then, he regards Thea with a pleasant smile. "Lady Thea. It has been some time. I have not been back to Arx in over a year. But yes, this is my wife, Marquessa Halla Stahlben." And looking back to his wife, he indicates Thea. "She's an older friend of mine. Ended up befriending her not long after I came to the city." While he would've said more, he kind of waves his hand in a gesture to signify all of...this. The general area. "An impromptu gathering in lieu of the masquerade being canceled?"

Orick has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

As a round of 'sailors' return their boats, those who are ready to partake in this round and make the lives of those entering the judgement green that much harder, are made ready. Wheeled boats being placed at the finish line for people to jump into, sails with sigils of different houses there. A flotilla on land, if one can guess, circling the parameter.

Orick thought he had found a nice quiet place, alas, it was right in the center of one of the scheduled games... he tries to watch for a bit and then quickly realizes he's underfoot and moves to scurry off and find another place to sit. He idly clutches his book under his arm like a security blanket as he wanders through the throngs of people.

Monique has joined the a brick and wood wishing well.

Thea lifts her glass to Monique when she sees her as well, Drake as well. "Hey. Long time no see." When Halla speaks to her, she smiles a bit,"Yes, that's right. I'm sure you're probably melting while I'm loving every minute of this. It's a pleausre to meet you." Her eyes flick between Halla and Magnus, nodding,"Congratulations to you both,"before agreeing with Magnus with a grin,"True. I'm glad of your return. I'm sure your children have grown. I promised to take them sailing one day,"though--her eyes take in these ships. "Probably not on these.."

Orick has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

"...Yes?," Halla answers, something about the man's tone giving her pause. "I am the Marquessa Stahlben." Perhaps Drake had made her suddenly self-conscious, as she looks down at her dress. Like Magnus, she's dressed entirely in linen. Gauzy linen, stitched so finely the seams are nigh-invisible and the detail of the embroidery may well have driven the seamstress half-blind, but linen all the same, worn loose and cut deeply to keep the heat from suffocating her. Her weight shifts from one foot to the other, and then she brings her attention back to Thea. A flicker of a smile, not quite so bright now, touches her face. "The very farthest South of the Compact and the very farthest North, in one conversation. Amusing."

"Careful there." Adrienne has a steadying hand on the server's elbow. The other balances the tray. She moved quickly, aeterna rustling ghost-like as she abandoned her companions to stop an accident. "May I?" Assessing the server's steadiness, Adrienne covers for the lapse for reaching for a drink, gaze reassuring.

Drake gives Thea a smile, and a nod. "Yes, we had another trip outside of town. Hope you missed me." He also nods to Magnus. "We haven't met in person, but I suppose I know you by reputation. I've helped with a scouting mission or two. I was acquainted with... the former Marquessa, hence my pause. But I suppose time marches on, and, yes, congratulations to you," he says to Halla with a nod in her direction. As for looking at her outfit, well... he tends to do that, even to married women, but he's not being too impolite about it. Then as the boat racing is lining up... he takes a step back and decides he'll be joining in the fun.

"RIDERS TO YOUR BOAT!" Someone calls out

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

Apollo grins brightly, attention briefly drawn off by Adrienne rescuing the server; he nods approvingly. "Nice reflexes, your highness," he says, before returning attention to the task at hand; he nods at Adalyn for her to hand over the parcel she has.

When the time comes to mount her 'boat', Thalamina strides over to the one with the Shepherd colors and sigil, and climbs aboard. She takes a few moments to figure out how to work the thing, then she waits until it's time to shove off. She readies herself, leaning forward a little, and glancing about at the others. She hikes up her skirts a little so they don't drag or get caught or anything, her soft suede boots showing laced to the knee. There's a mild look of amusement on her features as she glances over toward the other 'sailors', cobalt eyes sparkling.

Equally, Magnus turns his gaze on Drake, eyeing the other man. There is something he might be looking for. And then he finds it. "Scouting mission. Pertaining to what?" There's no accusation there, he's actually curious. The guy has been out of town for a long time. But understand clicks behind his eyes. "Ah." he utters. "It does indeed. Bonespire requires solid leadership if we are to navigate integrating as best as we can. Marquessa Halla has already done a great deal for me and my people." He leaves it that, once Drake turns away to do the boat thing. But Thea was wondering about the children. "They are young yet. I am doing what I can for them. But I have faith they will grown strong."

Bayberry, an Oakhaven juvenile bloodhound, Steadfast, a dunskin stallion courser arrive, following Norwood.

Bayberry, an Oakhaven juvenile bloodhound, Steadfast, a dunskin stallion courser leave, following Norwood.

Norwood has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

It's fortunate that Adrienne rushes to the server's rescue because Adalyn - with her hands full - does the exact opposite, instinctively distancing herself from the precariously teetering tray to protect the parcel in her grasp. "That was nicely done," she remarks to Adrienne. There's a smile for the server too, as she tries to make up for her complete lack of assistance.

Really, there should have been another Fidante here for to do that. But Hamil finds himself moving to take a position in the rose boat and laughs. "This is nothing like a horse!" he says in amusement, but it seems that he has settled himself into this race and will see it through! A glance towards Thalamina and a smile. "Good luck." he offers, dressed in an airy summer tunic and trousers with soft slippers. Because they are COMFORTABLE.

What could be better than a very short dress and a boat race? Nothing, according to Monique, as she precariously clambers aboard the Greenmarch boat and flirts with whoever she can to get the rolliest wheels.

A Malvici NOT trying to sail would be weird. Well--most of them. Even if said ship goes in a circle. This will prove interesting. Hopping in, Thea gets her arms ready to PUSH. Yep, a pushing ship. "So I'm guessing I'm the oars too.." She adjusts her dress, probably looking not at all ladylike and readys herself.

To Magnus and Halla, Thea answers with ease,"Ive been to Bonespire. On a mammoth hunt. I thought I'd freeze to death, but I'd certainly go again."

Getting onto her 'boat', Alrssia grins at Monique's words, before turning her attention onto the race. She scans the surroundings before the start to ensure she can get along without injuring herself or passersby.

Courvoisier, a fluffy golden cat with a flat face, Beelzebubbles, the hairless feline overlord you've been waiting for arrive, following Iseulet.

Courvoisier, a fluffy golden cat with a flat face, Beelzebubbles, the hairless feline overlord you've been waiting for leave, following Iseulet.

Drake lines up behind the boat as instructed, getting ready for the actual race, and climbing in. He gives it a test roll before the race start is called.

There is no spilled drinks, at least not over here as Adrienne to the rescue and the server looks very grateful as a drink is taken and in doing so, steadies the tray. The drinks are offered in turn to others, far more steady this time.

Messere Bray, a charming ass, Rocker arrive, following Vitalis.

Messere Bray, a charming ass have been dismissed.

As racers get into their boats, they are all jostled in, sails flying in the breeze and a servant in Thrax colors steps up with a flag "On your marks! Get set! Go!" And the racers are off!

When the princess signals for the race to commence, Alessia sets off with a burst of speed that seems to last till the end. In part due to luck, and also her arms not tiring throughout.

It looks like the sail does most of the hard work here, so Drake sits back and lets it do that. As he does... being a bit lazy about it since clearly this is just the responsibility of the wind... Alessia and Monique both get a lead on him much faster. So now he feels like he should try to catch up... but the question of how? He ends up leaning out, and pushing a bit on the ground, maintaining a spot in the middle of the pack.

Norwood checked perception at difficulty 10, rolling 26 higher.

As Hamil reaches his boat, and wishes her good luck, Thalamina beams at him. "And to you, my lord!" she calls back amiably, seeming delighted by the whole prospect. Then, she's facing forward again, and she focuses her attention on /winning/. Not like she will, probably, but she's going to try her darnedest! She will mostly try standing on the boat, rather than sitting on it, holding onto the mast, while propelling forward with a foot. Hopefully! She waits for the signal to begin, then uses one booted foot to launch the boat into motion, hands gripping the mast. The boat zips forward! At first, she wobbles a little, and struggles a bit with trying to figure out how to keep the thing moving or even speed it up, but decides using her foot is probably still the best. Bend at the knee... push! Bend at the knee... push! She sails along merrily, at a moderate pace, eyes focused on the track ahead. Hopefully she won't have to dodge any people. She eyes the people passing her, and works at being... faster. If she can!

And away they go. With everyone else off into the lead, Hamil starts off, just for his wheel to find a rock stuck in the grass and he finds himself stuck. He pushes against it a few times, and then realizes he has to push backwards, change directions, and try to catch up with everyone else as he finds himself falling behind the rest of the racers. "Row row row your boat..."

"Still cheering for you!" Monique calls to Alessia, even as she tries to gain ground on her. Because the people she's flirting with? They're pushing her. "Faster! Come on! I can't let Lady Mazetti win! Even though," she pitches her voice louder, "I am absolutely hoping she wins!"

Harlen leaves, following Duarte.


And so, Piccola arrives.

Does anyone notice? She has no entourage, no adorable animals. No friends. (Sad.) She ends up taking a seat by herself where others sit, adjusting the plain sword at her hip as she does so. Peculiar perhaps to those who see her: it looks like she may have taken an iota of time to prepare for going out. Her hair looks washed and coiffed just a little, so her short locks form a wave to the side. And her clothes: is that silk she's wearing?

Her face is a mask of tormented nerves.


Piccola has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Adrienne substantially prefers watching the race while not in danger of being bowled over. While Clements and Friends (TM) converse, Adrienne tracks the movement of the racers, arms folded. She murmurs something, wryly amused, to those near her as her gaze diverts to track Piccola's arrival at 'her' tent.

Vitalis has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Orick puts Lonely Hearts: An Anthropologic Study of Romance and Duty in the Oathlands in leather satchel.

At first, it doesn't move like Thea thought it would. Not REALLY! But eventually she gets a rhythem going and off she go--er rolls! "Think if I blow into the sail, it'll go faster?" she calls, laughing a bit. "Oh shite! People!" Thea tries getting her arms to you know, sweve and avoid. AVOID! Definitely not ABORT! She tries to get up front, really..but how? She starts trying to weave around, hoping to get a lead.

Vitalis isn't quite sure what he's stumbled into, but finds the folk he's looking for quickly enough, joining those Clements and Friends (TM) in their tent of choice.

At the mention of Thea nearly freezing to death, well. Perhaps she could be a little bit more sympathetic. But given the current weather, Halla only laughs - and laughs openly, the sound rich and full as it wells up from her throat. "You will understand, then, Lady Malvici, if I politely decline any invitation you ever make to see Southport in summer. This is the farthest south I have ever been and these last few weeks, I have been surprised my hair did not catch fire simply from walking in the sun." But! Then there is the boat race to attend to and, realizing that their companions now have other entertainments, Halla takes several steps back, excluding the Stahlben pair from being caught up in the contest.

A laugh escapes Alessia's throat when she crosses the finish line, turning back to Monique. "You're a sneaky one." Her eyes flash with mischief, as she recovers from the exertion.

And they're off. With Alessia in the lead, a good start and there's gasps that Monique is getting pushed. Murmurs of how Lycene. The spirit of the rules vs the letter of the rules and all. But along comes Drake and Thalamina, respective and proper in their starts, Malvici bringing up the almost rear that instead belongs to Hamil. Stuck on a rock Hamil. He can likely blame the person who put his boat in place.

Oh yeah, more than happy to get out of the way of all...that, he backs up with Halla to a better watching position. And while the 'boats' roll about, his eyes scan, causing him to to take up one of his favorite hobbies; people watching. And in doing so, he picks out a face that Magnus recognizes, which actually draws his attention a bit more than the riders. And the look on her face. The giant Marquis frowns, making his. A tilt of the head, before he starts to move in Piccola's seated position. "Lady Piccola." he says carefully by way of greeting. "You...don't look all that enthused. Is something the matter?"

As he's pushing pushing along -- Hamil was just starting to catch up to the pack, when he just happens to catch sight of a certain tactical general. And she's not in armor. She's not scowling. She's... dressed up?? So caught off guard by Piccola's shift from squinty steel-eyed general to dressed up Lady, he forgets he's in a landship and he capsizes, the boat turning over and landing on it's side in a crash. Of course, this causes Hamil just to start laughing. Yes, he's finishing in dead last -- but he's moving to try to climb out of the boat to try to get it back upright and come back into the race.

Danger! Danger! Someone else who was getting pushed but in a further sailing group seems to have lost control, a wobbling wheel and they jerk abandon ship as it careens for Norwood.

Norwood checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 7, rolling 43 higher.

"You knew that already!" Monique calls back to Alessia with a laugh, not at all out of breath due to being pushed. She glances back to the others, calling out encouragement, "Would you like to borrow one of my pushers?"

Drake is still rolling the boat... still basically in the center of the pack, though he's doing his best to TRY to catch up. It just seems like Alessia has too much of a lead. Monique calls over her shoulder, and he makes a frowning face at her, exaggerating just enough that she can see the disappointed expression at speed.

Grinning at Thea's comment, the Shepherd lady glances behind her to the Malvici lady, and laughs. "If only it were that easy!" she calls back, before turning back around and continuing to push along her merry way, while Alessia and Monique and Drake zoom ahead of them. She continues doing what she's doing though, getting the hang of swerving around people who happen upon the track while entering or leaving the grounds. "Look out!" she shouts at a couple with a small child between them, and zips past them just in the nick of time as they scramble out of the way. She smirks as she sees Monique with her pushers. "Cheater!" she yells back, but good-naturedly.

A PERSON gets pushed out of whatever is happening and Norwood steps to one side and scowls at the man. "Rude." Yep, his stick is firmly in place.


Piccola murmurs something at the tent to Adrienne before turning her attention to Magnus.

For a moment, she doesn't know what to say to him, but words don't take too long. "It is neither the people nor the events of which I am less than amused by." She gestures at herself. "I was advised to come in such finery, Lord Marquis, and so I have, rather against my better judgment." She snorts indelicately. "I swore I would never wear silk upon my legs again, yet I have, and I tell you, Lord Stahlben, I feel //naked//."

She grumbles a couple of choice epithets under her breath.


"This is--I feel shame!" But nothing about her shows it, in fact she's still laughing. "Wait! Who's pushing who? Monique, you need to share!" Thea starts blowing into the sail more. Hey, you might as well try right? She probably looks ridiculous.

Adrienne, startled by Norwood's near accident and elegant dodge, is slow to reply to Piccola. When she does, she follows Piccola's glance up to Magnus. Very up. A slender brow arches. "Ah. Please don't let me keep you. Adrienne Valardin, my Lady." She adds softer words, meant for Piccola's hearing.

"Leather is better," Halla chimes in, before being introduced. "But the heat makes it unbearable." She nods the once, sharply, her eyes narrowed faintly at Piccola even as she agrees with her discontent. It seems she's judged her to be a woman of sense. Finally. "I look forward to whatever they call 'winter' here, when I'll be able to wear proper clothes again." Her own linen dress apparently doesn't count.

Magnus looks a touched perplexed. Which isn't all that surprising, as at times, that can be his default state. "Forgive me but...I don't quite understand." he gestures at her. "You were advised to come in silk?" While waiting for that answer he nods at Halla coming up with him. "Furs. Bone. Mammoth hide. All good things to wear for normal attire." This seems absolutely logical and not needing to be said. And like Hall, he too is dressed in linen. Very loose fitting linen. Because it's about the only thing doesn't feel miserable to wear. "But the question I would like to ask, is why? Why is silk important?"

Inching closer to the finish line, Alessia doesn't loose any momentum, though she isnt lacking for determination.

Apollo blinks once at /something/ Adrienne said, and then glances at Halla - offers a bright smile. She said leather is better; they're friends now, it's the rules.

The mother of the child that Thalamina almost hits, screams at the woman, though the child just looks exhilierated. Thoroughly exhilarated and starts tugging on the sleeve of their mothers, asking if they can go sailing. The answer is a resounding "No, you'll crash and die in that thing" and there is a momentary sadness from the little boy that the adults get to have the fun. So perhaps he lingers more than he should and Drake gets hung up just a fraction. His frown is justifiable. Monique's minions, and there's more gathering, are pushing her recklessly, but can't get the speed that Alessia has. Hamil careens and topples but there's people there, ready to help him get back up as fast as possible! One of Monique's minions peels away and sets up shop pusshing Thea. Not that it seems to do her much good.

Really, Halla has no idea why she's being smiled at by a stranger. But, well, she's the stranger in a strange land at the moment. So after a moment of blinking at Apollo, she nods once, one half of her mouth quirking upwards. It's good to have friends! Even nameless ones.


Piccola makes a face at Magnus, and then laughs boisterously.

"Yes, Lord Marquis, I was advised to come in silks." She explains, or at least provides an explanation. "Sometimes, it is important to attract attention; others times, not so. Tonight, while the air is warm, I suppose it is draw the eye, so that when the winter comes there is a greater likelihood that someone'll warm my bed." She grins for a moment, and then turns her attention back to Adrienne.

"I may visit there some time, your Highness," she responds quietly, nodding her head.


Drake laughs as he sees Thea cleverly convince someone else to help push her. He twists in his seat, and looks backward at her. This does not improve his standings in the race any. But he's at least keeping up and having a good time.... turning forward again as he must sharply veer to avoid running over another passerby. "Ah, incoming."

As the kids come over to help him back up, Hamil is already resigned to his fate, but damned if he's not gonna have fun with it. "Here, you steer, I'll push!" Rolling out of the boat, he picks up the little one and sets the kid in the seat and starts to push. "Left, left! Wait, the other left!" he calls out as they barely miss a table of food as he tries to get the boat back on track. "Onward! We'll catch up yet!"

/Now/ Alessia's crossing the finish line, her arms potentially tiring, though given the distance she's built between herself and opponents, it doesn't seem to impede her too much.

"Sorry!" Thalamina yells at the woman and child, but then she's already rolling past. Despite the effort she's putting in all by herself, Thalamina, while not winning, is holding her own. She's not first, but she's not last either, and that's something. She continues to sail along, pushing the boat occasionally with her foot like a scooter, bronze skirts fluttering about her, and fiery braid flapping behind her with a few strands falling loose about her face and then floating back with each burst of breeze. She doesn't let up on her effort, despite not being one of the leaders, pushing herself harder even, as she tries to at least catch up.

Hey. You take what help you can get. Even if it's not enough. Thea is still laughing, calling out,"Thanks! I owe you one!" And hey, at last she isn't DEAD last. Her arms keeps pushing away, helping. Even if her hot air isn't. None of it worked, and she didn't catch up AT ALL! But hey, she reached the finish line! Best effort, right?

Norwood mutters, "She ... say she's naked ... ... ... ..."

"No, now there's too many of you! Not enough coordination!" Monique lambastes her pushers imperially, waving the one back to Thea. "Faster! But not so fast that I fall! Go, Lady Mazetti! You can do it! Those arms have fought off assassins, I know you'll win!" she calls out, making good on her promise to cheer for Alessia.

"Well. You look...nice?" Magnus scratches at the back of his head, making the bone-cared rings in his beard and hair click together. "But I have never valued the material of ones clothes for looks. Only how well they insulate. Or protect. Everything else seems." He rolls a beefy shoulder in a half shrug, "perfunctory." He gives a glance to Halla, eyeing her for a moment longer. "But I can see the appeal in wanting to warm someone's bed." he adds, looking back at her. "We should speak again, when we weren't on our way to head out for the night. Just stopping by. And the proposition you offered to me? I am still interested. We should keep in touch."

Eyes move back to Hall. "Ready to go? Or you want to keep watching?"

Indeed, too many hands make for por co-ordination and as people fall down trying to push Monique further, she doesn't gather the momentum. In front of Thalamina another couple, lovebirds, stride and hasten their steps when it seems they might get run over. Though the female pair turn and call "A lovely dress!" To the woman. Darke meanwhile finds himself the bearer of a carmine red silk scarf as someone loses theirs to the breeze and it flutters against his neck and somewhat over his face as they go. Hamil is, as hamil does and the man keeps going even though in this batch he's last. Thea's trying, and somehow she manages to be faster than Hamil.


Proposition? Warming beds?

Piccola bobs her head in Magnus' direction. "In a few weeks," she advises. "The location is set. Still working on getting as many attendees as I can." She turns her attention to Halla, and nods to her. Introductions have not been made, but she doesn't seem to mind. "Travel well, Lord Marquis."

And then she returns her attention to the events at her seating.


There's a scarf. Flying at Drake. "That

Hamil checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

At this point, is Hamil even trying? Yes, but no. Instead, as a true Champion should, he's encouraging the kids to load up in the boat. "Everyone in, I'll push!" he calls out with a laugh. As they pile into the boat, Hamil comes around the back and starts to push, and hey, they're actually making good time, with laughter and amusement as they move along towards the finish line. They are totally bringing up the rear, but there isn't a care in Arvum that he is. "Woo! We finished!" he says, sharing handshakes and bows with the group of kids as he dusts himself off.

Hearts and minds. Hearts and minds.

Theres a scarf. Flying at Drake. "That seems appropriate..."Thea calls teasing. From her positition still in the back. "Wait. Who's stripping?" She keeps moving though, shouting to a couple,"That yours?" regarding the scarf. Gods she hopes so. When the finish line approaches, the Malvici has never been so glad in her life. Her arms go limp. "I need a drink."

There's a breathless laugh now, Alessia spins on her boat to watch the rest. "Thank you, Mo. Your praise is without match." She gives the woman a wink before cheering at her own feat. "I should have done the same." She nods at the minions.

She rolls her boat to Vitalis. "Cousin, lovely to see you. Figure I should ask Strozza to let me captain a boat?" She winks. Then to Adalyn. "You look well, darling." She beams. "Its been a while."

Something about the current conversation - the words passed between Magnus and Piccola - has brought a furrow to her brow. A question, maybe, as Halla then looks to Magnus. But whatever it was that she might have been about to say is cut short by his question. "Yes. If you wish to leave, we will leave," she answers, simply and directly. Fingers curl in the fabric of her dress, drawing the hem up just a little to keep from tangling in her sandals as they make the long walk back to the Redrain ward.

Norwood, head swivel, STRIPPING!? GODS WHAT KIND OF PARTY IS THIS PEOPLE?!

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

Monique crosses the finish line after Alessia, grinning her cheshire grin and looking for all the world as if she hasn't expended any effort at all save to rise from the 'boat' and congratulate her competitor. "I knew you would win. You're my hero, you know," the Minx adds with a green-eyed wink.

2 Bone Wardens leaves, following Halla.

Hans the Helpful, 3 Bone Wardens, Halla leave, following Magnus.

Drake has his vision obscured for a moment. It does not yet hinder his driving abilty for a moment even though he has a bit of a difficulty seeing. He turns his head back around with the scarf pinned in his fingers, fluttering like a banner. "At least I managed to get a favor from someone, so I'll call that a victory?" He 'sails' across the finish line... in what looks like third place. After this, he tries to place the owner of this particular scarf.

As Alessia crosses the finish line, Thalamina cheers her own, though she gets a bit distracted by the couple she nearly runs over. Then she beams a smile at the woman who complimented her dress. "Thank you!" she calls back, before turning ahead again just in time to avoid Drake with the carmine scarf over his eyes. She wobbles a bit, then steadies her boat, and continues to scoot herself along toward the finish line. As she reaches it, she sails across it, spreading her arms graceful as a bird, balancing on the thing on one foot like a dancer, before she finally slows the thing to a stop and dismounts, walking it off the track.

Vitalis blinks at Alessia, grinning, "I don't think Strozza would let you anywhere near the helm of one of his ships." He shrugs, linking arms with Adalyn, as his cousin approaches, "I'm not sure what I've just witnessed, but congratulations are in order, mmh?"

Temperance, the intemperate goat kid have been dismissed.

Norwood checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Adalyn grins at whatever quiet exchange she's been having with Vitalis, though Alessia's approach steals her focus. "I never knew you were so gifted at boating on land," she teases, gesturing to the finish line. "It has been quite some time, hasn't it?' Have you been well?"

Drake walks up to Alessia, dusting off his pants as he gets out of the wooden boat. "What a race. I didn't stand a chance. Congratulations on a well-earned victory." He gives her a slight bow.

"EXCUSE ME WHAT ARE YOU DOING!" Norwood shouts, stepping away from his wife and people to go stride towards the people doing things at trays."EXCUSE ME!" Yes Adalyn, he's yelling, but this is for a good cause.

Norwood has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Orick's sheepish gaze found his feet at some point but he glances up sharply at the shouting and raises both brows with obvious confusion.

Servers are still going around with fresh trays of drinks, cold ones both alcoholic or not. At the approaching of the Barone Clement though, one of the servants hesitates and looks around, while a nobleman near them starts to try and slink away.

Once the kids are on their way, Hamil offers a bow to Alessia. "Congratulations." comes the offer to her as he moves away from the racing area, heading towards where he saw Piccola.

Hamil has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Hamil has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Drake has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Kiera has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Thea hops from her little boat and smooths the skirts of her dress down. Did she get it all? Thea checks behind her-appearing satisfied. Grabbing a fresh glass of vodka, Thea steps over to Alessia, grinning a bit,"Congratulations,"her eyes looking for any nudity. I mean really? She teases Drake for a moment too,"Favor huh. Good job. I think it went more into Lessi's."

Alessia is declared the winner, though all who partook get cheers from those who help them out of their ships so that they can return to partying. From another corner of the green calls out "Next round Musical Lounge Chairs!"

Rising from the boat, Alessia gives a heavy sigh. "Alas, it's not a transferable skill." She grins at Drake. "You did well for a land based knight." She winks when he bows.

Alarissa has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Alessia has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

"VITALIS," Norwood calls out, and POINTS at the man that's creeping. A neo-noble baron's house really can't STOP another noble from doing shiz. But Vitalis is good and SNEAKY. " He points at the nobleman trying to slink away. Norwood will go to grab the servant.

Alarissa has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Alessia has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Orick has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Thea has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Thea has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Orick starts to reflexively drift in the wake of Norwood when it sounds like trouble is afoot but keeps a safe distance.

Norwood checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Ras arrives at the festivities when the moon comes out in the evening sky, and lurks on the outskirts, walking slowly around as if he's looking for someone.

After handing off her boat, Thalamina smiles toward Alessia. "Congratulations, my lady," she tells the other woman. Then she hears some commotion, and glances off toward where Norwood is yelling. She tilts her head, then returns to the blue and purple canopied seating to check on Maurice, who is just sitting there lounging, tongue lolling out of his mouth. She gives him a scritch behind the ears, and murmurs something to him, before straightening again. She glances around then, and tries to figure out what is going on.

Thalamina has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Drake looks started as Norwood approaches Adalyn with bluster. But then he pauses... and holds out that red scarf. "...Is this yours by chance?" he asks. Totally deadpan now. Drake knows Norwood is on a mission and too busy to acknowledge his joke, so he just tosses the scarf over his shoulder. Drake then grins at Alessia. "Obviously you are the much more experienced sailor." It seems as if another game is gathering up, but he holds back for this one. He's going to enjoy a drink so that he can properly enjoy some future game with the correct attitude.

Thalamina has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Apollo, peering out over the events, looks at others at the red tent, like he might be considering musical lounge chairs. He tugs at the collar of his leather-based jacket, likely wishing he'd worn something lighter, and settles to sit instead of joining in. "What's the Baron up to," he says, peering.

Thea blinks as Norwood starts..well..not shouting. But still...She was going to greet the Baron, but you know--he seems busy. She greets Vitalis instead. Or is she distracting him. Thea isn't sure, but anyway.."Lord Vitalis, how are you? I haven't seen you since your wedding.."grinning at him. Though her eyes are still watching.

Rukhnis makes her way into the park from Crown Way, her gaze a little uncertain as she glances around at all the merrymakers, loungers, and odd game-playing combinations of the two. She hangs back at the edge of all the festivities, and like Ras appears to be looking for someone in particular -- whom she appears to have found when she spots her fellow outskirts-lurker. Weaving around a few other people scattering the margins of the green, she crosses over to Ras with an amiable tilt of the head.

Adalyn's head swivels as she hears yelling. Not only that, but it's her father yelling. She blinks, shrugging shoulders at Drake as if to say 'who knows?'. "I can't yell, but HE can?" she huffs, crossing her arms across her chest. But mock annoyance turns to confusion as Norwood begins bellowing for Vitalis to assist.

Vitalis's head comes up at Norwood's bellow, extracting himself from those near, slipping past. He looks to where the Baron points and murmurs his apologies and slips away, chasing after the man Norwood indicated.

Vitalis checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

Monique has left the a brick and wood wishing well.

Alarissa drops Gift Chest.

You know what? Norwood is distracted. Apollo can just.. take /off/ the too-heavy leather jacket. There will be no demerits for stripping in public.

Orick checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Kiera has been watching her brother flirt per usual as she hers norwood bellow "What in vellichor's name? and she looks in the direction before heading in the direction of the next game

Kiera has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Oh but the man wants to sneak off. It's a terribel Lycene if he can't manage to get away with whatever he was getting away with. And the man is not fast enough as Norwood and Vitalis round on him and he turns when grabbed, putting his hands up, sweating under his silks and not from the heat. "I have done nothing!" SHe squeaks out.

Spotting Rukhnis approaching, Ras smiles despite looking somewhat worn out at the end of the evening, and holds out a hand as if to try and take hers. Tilting his head in return, he mutters something quietly.

Orick is trailing behind the chaos with a shrewd expression cresting onto his features and he glances between the servant and the chase that was about to get underway.... moving over to the area where the suspect recently stood near a server. He stops to inspect the tray of vittles and then his focus is intent as he puts the pieces together after the fact.

Standing beside Princess Adrienne, Margerie watches Norwood and Vitalis with an eyebrow quirked up. With a shake of her head, she returns to the conversation in her vicinity.

Apollo has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Vitalis helps Norwood corner the woman and looks now after the tray she'd slunk away from. Where is it... where is it...?

Apollo has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Vitalis checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

"Excuse me." Norwood says to the Noble, glancing over at Margerie, WHERE IS THE DIPLOMAT now that Norwood has gotten his ass into a tight corner?! "I just wanted to speak. Ah," conversation MAKE CONVERSATION. "Nice. Pants."

Vitalis rumbles, standing at Norwood's elbow while he scans the crowd, "The Baron is notoriously fond of pants."

Rukhnis twines her fingers through Ras's as he takes her hand, and she casts a brief dubious look out at the grassy space with the parquet floor laid out on it before saying something quietly back to him.

Thalamina wanders toward the dancing area, and looks over to where Norwood and Vitalis are confronting someone. She watches curiously, but she keeps her distance. Just in case things get sticky. But she eventually turns to head over to where the musical lounges game will soon begin! Because fun. Fun is why we are here.

Apollo peers off after the /painful/ conversation about pants. Everyone knows /he/ is the pants fan of the lot. Gosh. He huffs a breath, then goes to join in a game. Maybe he spied something pretty he wanted.

Maybe.

Drake takes up an entire shot of vodka, and looks at Norwood again. Things seem calmer now? Maybe he'll get another shot. But then he asks, looking at Vitalis. "Was there a disruption?"

Vitalis is still scanning the crowd, eyes flicking briefly to Drake as the man approaches, "...not totally sure yet..." he tips up on toes to take even better advantage of his height to look around.

Margerie has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Adalyn slips her hairpin free of her hair, heedless of how her blonde tresses fall messily around her shoulders. Having stabby things in hand trumps having a nice hairdo, clearly. She meanders closer to Norwood and Vitalis as they question the Lycene nobleman, just in case they need any further help.

/Something/ Margerie says has Adrienne looking over her shoulder to Norwood and Vitalis, brow deeply knit, gaze following after the Baroness. Oh, Adalyn has her hair down. This seems fine. Slowly the Valardin turns, arms folded. She's just watching. Really. No one is going to get stabbed.

With a small grimace, Margerie strides as quickly as her shoes will let her over to her husband. "Norwood, what is this about pants?"

The nobles looks down to his pants then back up to Norwood, the female who has come to his side looking too and then up to both Norwood and Vitalis. "Thank you...." He squeaks before looking around and trying to straighten. "Can.. can I help you?"

Orick Meanwhile, has come up behind them and seems to be fiddling in the grass behind th em. Hard to see.

Ras watches the ongoing game for a moment or two and develops a confused furrow of his brow, swinging his gaze back down to Rukhnis shortly.

"Pants?" Thea is obviously confused as she watches the going ons. "So send him pants as a gift. Got it." The poor man. She takes another drink and well, things are getting awkward. Or strange. Clearly Thea is missing something. Seeing Adalyn finally, she greets her with a wave and a smile. At least she found her in the crowd and talk of pants and talk of stripping.

Drake scans the crowd as well, but... doesn't see what the fuss is about (pants? He's not sure) so he just drinks from the shot. And pays attention to the musical chair game instead, since it is going to be a spectacle, he thinks.

Apollo checked luck at difficulty 7, rolling 12 higher.

Rukhnis gives Ras a half-bemused, half mildly irked shrug of her shoulders as she continues to stare out at the cleared area in the grass, then looks back to him with shake of her head.

Whatever is happening, swiftly there is security there to tend to the matter, so that Norwood can return to his wife's side and Vitalis can go partake. The two Lycenes grumbling and making gestures as they are walked with to the side to converse.

Thalamina checked luck at difficulty 7, rolling 4 higher.

Vitalis bows to Margerie as she comes to Norwood's rescue, and Adalyn too with... bared steel...? He blinks at her and gathers up his wife's loose hair, taking the blade from her hands making a handsomely messy display. Admiring that, he presses a kiss to her cheek and - crisis averted? - goes off to the musical chairs. "Cheer for me," he winks at Adalyn and scarpers.

Vitalis has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Vitalis has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Orick finishes whatever he was doing, bending over to pick something up from the grass or drop it, and then dusts his hands off to go watch the game of musical chairs.

Margerie whispers quietly to Norwood before wishing Vitalis luck in the game and sidling up next to Adalyn. Norwood settles into a seat and observes.

Ras seems amused by something Rukhnis says, snickering for a moment before he half-turns towards her away from the clearing.

Adalyn smiles as Vitalis rearranges her hair, returning the hairpin to its rightful place. She tilts her cheek up to intercept his kiss and then nods agreeably as she shoos him off toward the game about to start. "I surely will," she calls after him before leaning in to murmur questioningly to Margerie.

At the msuical lounges, a violinist is starting up and people rise from lounges and start to move. Dance. Stealth from chair to chair or do whatever it is that their tactic is. Until, suddenly, the violinist stops with a screech of the bow.

Margerie has joined the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Apollo, when the violinist screeches to a stop, collapses a little dramatically onto another lounge chair. He could... probably do that all day. Dramatic collapsing. Why has he never done this before?

Thalamina quickly positions herself in front of one of the lounges and sits in it, glancing around and eyeing the others, as if to measure their skill or craftiness. She gives a soft laugh at Apollo and his sprawl, her eyes sparkling with amusement. When the music starts up, she jumps up and hesitantly stop-start-circles the chairs with the others, but she's bent forward a little, as if ready to snatch a chair at any second! She hastily scrambles into one as soon as the music stops, then glances around to see who is left without a chair.

Vitalis slips into a chair fast enough he might have already been sitting in it when the thrumming strings stop.

Orick chuckles lightly at the antics, swaying casually from heel to toe with a playful edge that belies the shadow on his brow... looking over his shoulder now more than when he arrived.

Rukhnis nods to Ras and turns to sweep her gaze across the rest of the park, looking once again as if she's in search of something. Then she gives a small nod to herself and tugs her street rat companion off on what seems to be a very fixed and definite course, even if it does involve deviating around little knots of people and other minor obstacles. After a few moments this course has led them right past a table full of finger food, from which the Eurusi woman gathers up a variety of light snacks before veering off towards a nearby table.

Rukhnis has joined the small circular table.

Orick has joined the small circular table.

Not dancing so much as she is, dawdling, Thea circles around the chairs. When the screeching happens, Thea--drops. Not on a chair. Oh nonono. She finds a lap. A lap that has already FOUND A CHAIR! She hurries up, apologizing swiftly,"Those are--those nice legs you have there. So sorry! Really,"pushing heself to her feet. Drink in hand. Well there goes her finding a chair..

Ras has joined the small circular table.

Kiera manages to keep her eyes off apollo and find a chair before the music stops all one has to do is focus,right. As long as no one starts going on about pants, she's got this

Ras follows along with Rukhnis, glancing at the finger food, and when the Eurusi woman gathers up some snacks, he grabs a few too. Then he sits down nearby, starting to lean back before sitting upright, continuing to observe the ongoings briefly before returning focus to her.

Hamil checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

3 Last Watch Sentries, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Donella.

Rukhnis pauses by the table to slide some food across it in Ras's direction, and only after that does she sit down too, her gaze casting around the crowd almost warily as she does so.

There goes Thea Malvici eliminated from the competition. Though the one whose legs she sat on, well, they wink at her and let her go on her merry way. And with a quick shout for attention, the violinist starts up again. The same song, though this time a little faster. Adn then there's a soft stop to the music, lest anyone get used to the cues.

Surely the violinist waits for all laps to be cleared of their occupants (OCCUpants, OCCUpants) before playing again, right? Apollo, momentarily encumbered by Thea, gives her a very wary look and a murmur. Whatever she says back makes him grin, and he shoots Vitalis a look that is absolutely FULL of eyebrows before laughing. He pops up to saunter gaily around the chairs, having picked up the spirit of fun or a bit of sunstroke, but who's counting? At the quick stop, he sidesteps quickly to find another chair, totally clear. No threat of incoming rear this time. /This/ time.

Donella strolls along the seatings, and picks out a table for no particular reason where she can see the dancing. "Good evening," she says, amiably enough. "May I join you

Donella has joined the small circular table.

Seeing Rukhnis, Ras, and Piccola finally, Thea offers them a wave. And a wave. "I didn't see you all. I'm so sorry,"as she saunters away from Apollo's lap. When Donella enters, she gives a curtsy,"Your Highness. Good evening."

Drake definitely saw that. He laughs, as his guess that this was going to be a good show to watch was right on.

Vitalis laughs at Thea collapsing onto Apollo collapsing. His continuation assured, he extracts himself from his lounger and stalks around the thinning pool of targets, eyeing everyone warily.

Hamil has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Orick is sitting at one of the tables with a drink in his hand and watching the party, including the game, with a grin that has been ever so slowly evaporating over the last fifteen minutes. Infact, he has a slight scowl of consideration sinking onto his forehead and knitting his brows together.

A group of people are at an area cleared with loungers that are being removed round after round, musical chairs. Another pair are at a small table, chatting away (Ras & Rukhnis) while another group of nobles (in the throng of people who take consolation from a cancelled royal mask to at least party on the judgement green) are under a canopy and talking.

The motion of Thea's wave catches Rukhnis's eye from her place at the table, and she leaves off rubbing wearily at her head to tilt a nod back in the Malvici woman's direction.

Vitalis has a singular focus, eyes strangely unfocused, chin tucked as he moves, feet weaving carefully. Serious business, this.

The music starts up again, and Thalamina jumps out of her chair, and turns, nearly stummbling into the person in front of her, who happens to be Kiera. She giggles an apology, then they are off again, circling the chairs, waiting for the music to stop. She's still a little distracted by her bumbling at the start, and so maybe that's why she ends up trying to sit in the same seat as Kiera, but the other woman is just a bit quicker! Giving her a sad, but good-natured smile, Thalamina turns and wanders off, eyeing the chest full of pretty things longingly as she goes.

"And to you, good woman. Though, please don't let formality overshadow festivities. Who am I speaking with? What dance is it they are doing?" The Princess of Farhaven and Former Voice of Thrax puts her feet up on a nearby stool, DARING the servers to take it away from her. Sometimes a girl just needs to put her feet up. "Goodman," she addresses Orick, "You don't mind that I sit here, do you?"

Thalamina has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

The servers look at the feet on the stool then merely bow to Donelle, and holds a tray aloft for the Princess Consort of Redrain to take a drink from first then offers to the two commoners in turn. But Donelle first. No expectation at all about making feet connect with the ground

Thalamina has joined the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Ras seems focused on Rukhnis, and eats a piece of sausage before shaking his head and asking something -- but then notices the Eurusi woman's wave to Thea, and he glances that way to offer a nod as well.

Hamil has joined the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Drake smiles at Thea as she walks past. Then he looks at Donella, her brazen raising of the legs getting another smirk from him. "So, they go round and round, and then a chair goes away... and one person is eliminated until someone wins." He sits himself down at the table for a moment, as he's still watching the show after all.

Drake has joined the small circular table.

Alessia has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Orick is pulled from his reverie when the Princess addresses him and he scoots back, as if he meant to stand up and relinquish the table, "As you wish." He attempts a cheeky smile with a polite inclination of his head, "Though I believe it I who should be asking that question. I can find another seat, if you desire the entire table."

Whatever Vitalis see's, he see's. The musician's music starts up again, a crowd gathering to cheer them on. this time even faster and the three circle, circle, circle, it seems like it might go on a little long and then, it stops.

Donella takes a glass from the tray, with polite murmurings, and looks to all the others nearby, Drake, Ras, Rukhnis... the lot. And she gestures to the tray. "I suggest we all enjoy while we can. No rearrangement of seating necessary, if we are all comfortable. To Drake, she angles the question, "Do they win a cake at the end?" She raises her glass across the way toward Alarissa, before she sets the drink down before herself.

Vitalis circles the chairs, grin stretching as he faces off against Apollo. The treasures in the chest are the least of what's at stake.

Apollo notices that there are but three, and only two chairs; he gives Kiera a game smile, and Vitalis a look of laughter, and maybe he has a touch more focus when the music stops this time around; he very /neatly/ makes it into a seat, leaving Vitalis and Kiera to fight for the other.

Alarissa is chatting with a group at some other canopy but catches Donella's lift and blows the former Thrax a kiss across the way.

Thea introduces herself to Donella with a bow of her head,"I'm Lady Thea Malvici." There's a brief smile on her lips as she closely watches the final two contestants. "Don't trip,"she calls out to neither Vitalis or Apollo. No one in particular.

Oh, gosh.

Kiera is not quite fast enough at beating vitalis for a chair but it seems from the wide grin on her face, she may get just as much enjoyment from watching the too men square of next round

"I think they'll win something from that mystery box. There were some perfumes and some cookies and some other things I noticed," Drake says. He gestures with his glass, which is mostly empty... then finishes it with a tip back. "Mostly things the ladies like. Perhaps I'll see if anyone would care to ride me while I'm here." A pause. "In the next race of course."

Vitalis is gracious in victory, bobbing his head at Kiera as she departs, leaving just... one... more... between himself and victory...

Ras takes a cup from the server's tray and sets it on the table between him and Rukhnis as if decorating the surface, though he remains straight in his chair. He nods awkwardly in Donella's direction, and then knits his brow at his Eurusi companion while seeming vaguely amused.

Adrienne, with Margerie and Adalyn at her elbow, watches the remaining contestants - her protege and her grandprotege - with DEEP enjoyment. "For glory, gentlemen!" calls out the Valardin.

Apollo begins his merry dance around the chairs, and you know what: Vitalis might be watching for the subtle hints that the violinist is going to stop the music, but Apollo is watching /Vitalis/ for the subtle hints that he's about to sit, and he slides exactly one half of his ass onto the lounge chair at exactly the same time that Vitalis slides exactly one half of /his/ ass onto the other half, and the real winner is... the lounge chair. He glares. He glares so mightily at Vitalis he may spring a sweat.

And then he giggles, and squeezes his knee, and murmurs something to him.

Thalamina settles in among the cushions at the blue and purple canopied seating again, and reaches out to take comfort in Maurice's soft fur, giving his ears another scritch. Are a few of the snacks missing from the table? Who would ever notice if a dog managed to snatch a few of them when so much is going on. But 'Mina notices! "Oh, you've been bad, haven't you? Eating the human food." She doesn't scold him too harshly though, turning to look back at the others as they continue vying for the dwindling number of chairs. She gives a laugh as she watches Apollo and Vitalis, her features alight with amusement.

'A tie!" These things can happen in the game. There's clapping from the officiator and then the chest is hauled up and brought forward. "My lord! Messere! Choose your prize"

Apollo takes a playful crown of carrots in dirt from Gift Chest.

From another corner, from the shorter racetrack so to speak, another calls out "The Paired Horse Race is soon to start!"

"A pleasure, lady Thea. How is your... aunt? Cousin? Lady Eithne. And your duchess? Both in good health, I hope?" She watches the fuss over the chairs, and murmurs, "I suppose it is the thought that counts? Personally I am wary of sticking my hand anywhere I can't see it. Can he see?"

Adalyn laughs aloud at Adrienne's remark, nodding in answer. "Something like that. Although it seems they may have spared us having to decide what to do." As the pair somehow find themselves sharing a seat, she grins and calls out the two, "Well done! A shared victory."

Donella says this, perking up at bit to hear of a race.

Margerie had been holding her breath that last round, and breathes out heavily in relief when Alarissa declares a tie. She cheers and applauds Apollo and Vitalis.

Orick has left the small circular table.

Apollo has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Vitalis moves like smoke and is /there/ in the chair victori-oh. What? He busts out laughing at this turn of events. "I've heard you can't ride two horses with one ass, but-" he shakes his head and presses a kiss to Apollo's cheek, eyes flaring with mischief at murmured words, "-apparently two asses in one seat," he grins again and extracts himself.

Orick has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Apollo squints off at the announcement. "I think that's the /next/ game, actually," he says to Vitalis, and grins, heading over to fetch something that he HIDES from the chest. HOW DARE HE.

With a gracious half-bow to Margerie and Adalyn, Adrienne says, "There. Our loyalties remain undivided. Will you excuse me? I should see a man about a horse." And off goes the Valardin for the greens.

Adrienne has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Adrienne has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Drake puts the empty glass down on the table, and stands up again. "Ah, is it time already?" He looks confident that he'll be able to participate in this next race... He's got good shoulders to ride on, at least.

Drake has left the small circular table.

Drake has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Orick gets up and inspite of his better judgment finds a place to hide his bag and then heads over to the dancefloor... he hardly looks strong enough to endure a strong breeze...let alone carry a person.

Kiera is grinning from ear to ear anf even blushing slightly as she waatches the two watches the two men and ponders the next game looking for a partner

Donella calls out toward the "track", with her feet still up, "Mind which end of the horse you are, or you know which you'll be."

Thea is head back to the dance area. To partipate in the WORSE thing. She has no skill. AT ALL. But hey, she's been failing gracelessly thus far, so why not! Answering Donella, she smiles,"She is well, thank you. She's now married and joined the Riven house. And my Duchess,"her words trailing. "She's well too. Busy."

There's an obnoxiously loud slurping as Ras sloppily devours a tomato at the table with Rukhnis.

Rukhnis has finished eating a tomato with great vigilance and care, at which point she shifts her gaze back to the cleared grassy area at something Ras has said. She mutters something in return, then rolls her eyes lightly back to look at her tablemate with an expression of deep skepticism.

Piccola has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Margerie has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Margerie has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Vitalis links arms with Apollo as he moves off to the chest to claim a prize. He peers around Apollo trying to see what he took. What was it? He eels the other way. APOLLO. Hrrrghhh. He looks into the chest, admiring the items there, making his own selection.

Thea already glances at Drake,"So hey..."

Orick checked willpower at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Ras mashes the rest of the tomato into his face and produces an expression of satisfaction so infinite that it must be at least halfway feigned.

Vitalis takes a delicate gold haircomb of maple branches with dangling silver maple seeds from Gift Chest.

[114Serveers are sharing strange looks at the antics of the two commoners.

Orick seems to have second thoughts about the human horse races and he starts to back away from the crowd gathering there without drawing any attention to himself.


Without a word, Piccola gets up and heads towards the dance area. Is she to be a jockey or a horse? Probably the former, given her attire. But what a fine horse she might be. Of the finest kind, naturally, yes?


Rukhnis stares at Ras. STARES. Then there's such a loud snort from her that it's likely audible several tables away.

Piccola has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Orick has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Ignoring the strange looks of the servers, Ras grins at Rukhnis' snort and wipes the sleeve of his shirt across his mouth.

Vitalis bows, "Highness," a broad grin stretching, "Good luck." And... oh, quite a few! "Good luck all," he brandishes his selection - a handsome comb, and bumps Apollo a bit, before moving to Thalamina. He grins at her, "A little bird told me you were interested in this."

Vitalis has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Apollo accompanies Vitalis for the presentation, and afterward uncovers his prize for the Clement lord's eyes only, whispering animatedly as he goes back to find a seat - one with some SHADE. Oof. Umbra? In this heat? What was he thinking?

Thalamina laughs at something Hamil says as they leave the blue and purple pavilion, her hand in his as they are about to go join the 'horse' race. Then Vitalis is approaching her, and has that comb she was eyeing, and she stops for a moment, her cheeks burning a bright red. Her hands fly to her face in surprise, and she squeaks in surprise. Her gaze travels up to Vitalis' and her eyes glimmer with surprise, amusement, and happiness. "Oh my! Someone has very keen eyes. I... um... are you sure?" she says, taking the comb in her hands. "It's so beautiful." She beams at him. "Thank you."

Or perhaps Orick was just having seperation anxiety from his satchel, he goes back over to where he stashed his back and slips the strap back over his shoulder a sigh of relief. Hefting the weight of bag and looking around to snag a drink or two before he calls it a night.

Vitalis checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Thalamina has left the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Hamil has left the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Vitalis barks a laugh at what Apollo shows him. "It could only be better if-" he modulates his voice, growing quieter.

Looking down at her shoes, Margerie decides to take the heeled sandals off for the safety of Thea.

Thalamina has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Rukhnis also ignores the servers glancing their way, as thoroughly as if they didn't exist. She also seems to be trying not to look at Ras, and there's an odd expression at the corner of her mouth.

When Thalamina pauses to speak with Vitalis, Hamil finds himself glancing at the comb as well, waiting for the lady to continue on and bows his head as he moves to join the Shepherd lady in the dancing area.

Hamil has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Apollo has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Vitalis has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Smiling at Vitalis and Apollo, Thalamina slips the comb into her hair, securing it into place. Then she takes Hamil's hand again, and walks with him to the dancing area. She smiles at him, and murmurs something softly to him.

Apollo laughs and laughs at whatever was whispered between he and Vitalis, and gives a tug at his elbow - after some quick stashing of his prize under his jacket at the red-and-white striped table. "Come on, when else will we have this sort of excuse?" he says, and grins. Backing away, merry laughter in his eyes, he amends: "Who should be the rider? Such a conundrum." The bait is equal to Vitalis' resolve. This /will/ happen.

Thea smiles over at Margerie,"I'm Lady Thea Malvici by the way. It's a pleasure to meet you." She finishes her drink nodding in her direction,"I figure if we're going to be riding eachother, we should know eachothers names." That came out wrong, so you know--

It's a little unconventional, but here stands the Valardin with her paladin, Drake Wyrvenheart. Adrienne rolls the sleeves of her graceful aeterna gown. "Had I realized it would be this sort of party, I would have dressed differently."

AS people are pairing off, the officiator is making sure that eople know thier positions. It turns out, the riding is... well, it's one person on the back or the shoulders of another person. And they are meant to run. There's even a bridle even, which is braided silk that's looped across chests, under arms and either end placed in the hands of the one who 'rides'. And then the horse? The person carrying? Is blindfolded it seems. It's up to the rider to direct the horse. Wehther verbally, with the silk braiding or however else they choose to do it.

The laugh that comes from Margerie is vibrant. She curtsies with a coy smile at Thea. "Lady Margerie Clement."

Drake looks a bit apologetic at Thea, and then looks at Margerie. He gives her a nod. "Good luck," he says, to Thea, and sincerly means it, then he offers an arm to Adrienne. "Well, I suppose up you go. You can grab the skin under if the silk is slippery," he says with a little smirk. Then he picks her right up onto his shoulders without much of a struggle.

Adrienne checked perception + ride at difficulty 15, rolling 51 higher.

Vitalis beams quietly at Thalamina's happiness with the comb, elbowing Apollo. He murmurs something to her before moving off.

Kiera checked perception + teaching at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Thalamina checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 44 higher.

Donella has left the small circular table.

3 Last Watch Sentries have been dismissed.

2 Redrain Guards have been dismissed.

Ras glanced once at those gearing up for the human horse races, but seems more interested in sitting at the table with Rukhnis still. It's late and he has sweat on his shirt, and since he's just a grubby commoner, it's very likely he was doing menial labor and is just too tired to trot around with someone on his shoulders.


Piccola comes up to Kiera almost brusquely. "Ready?" She makes a gesture for the other woman to hop on top of her shoulders. The two of them, being about the same height, actually make for a decent pairing. And once Kiera mounts her, the Tessere Lady gets started on the race with a grunt and a curse. "Why do I still have my sword on?"


Margerie checked command + leadership at difficulty 20, rolling 11 higher.

Vitalis trails along with Apollo back to the game grounds. He paws the ground menacingly.

Adrienne's eyes widen as she finds purchase on Drake's shoulders. She clears her throat and hunches forward to make makeshift reins from his shirt. "Are you alright?"

Apollo checked perception + teaching at difficulty 20, rolling 11 higher.

Vitalis grins at Adrienne, "This is why it pays to always dress for adventure, Highness."

When they arrive at the fields, Hamil considers does realize what he needs to do, and kneeling down before Thalamina, the knight chuckles. "I promise to try to be a comfortable ride, my Lady." he offers to her as he waits for the Shepherd lady to settle on his shoulders and moves to rise.

Vitalis checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 19, rolling 16 higher.

Kiera shrugs at picola's question and attempts to guide her forward from the perch on her back but seems somewhat uncertain.

Piccola checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 8, rolling 11 higher.

Adrienne eyes Vitalis from her lofty perch on Drake's shoulders. The skirt of her aeterna gown is tucked haphazardly at her knees. "Point noted, Vitalis. If you race well enough, I can offer a carrot when you're through."

Thalamina grins over at Adrienne. "Agreed! I came dressed expecting dancing, not horse racing," she says happily. She beams a smile to Vitalis, and another to Apollo with a little dip of her head. Then she turns to Hamil, and looks him over, as if trying to decide how best to get up on his shoulders. She murmurs something to him, and takes a blindfold to put 'round his eyes once they are in position. She ties it carefully, and then she carefully climbs up onto his shoulders. She settles her skirts around her carefully, trying to be as modest as possible, but it is a bit strange! She then takes up the 'bridle' of silk, and directs him toward the starting line. "No, more to the right. Now straight. Now.... stop. There!"

Having hiked her dress up enough to make this work, Margerie works with Thea to get arranged upon the younger woman's back. It is... Awkward. But just might work.

Vitalis hunkers to let Apollo board, arms lifted away from his sides to aid in whatever mount the man cares to take.

Drake checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 1, rolling 51 higher.

Hamil checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 1, rolling 38 higher.

For her part, literal horsing around is clearly just not something Rukhnis is going to stoop to. Having dismissed the grassy area as a place where dancing is not happening, she has clearly just as effectively dismissed whatever actually is happening there instead. And besides, whatever the grubby commoners are talking about, she seems to be deriving some subtle amusement from it as she leans forward over the table to rest her chin in her palm.

Thea braces herself as she helps Margerie on her shoulders. She moves her gown from her face with her hand, muffled for a moment,"Okay right. We can do this." Does she REALLY need a blind fold if she has dress over her face. She realizes she too has a gown and well--This is going to be fun. Just two ladies playing horse. Yep. Nothing to see here.

Apollo, laughing gaily yet at - Margerie! At Adrienne! At Drake's quip! At the predicament! At Vitalis /pawing the ground/ with /horsely menace/. "Alright, then," he says, and laughs, going for a blindfold. "This is going to be absolutely the best time I've ever had in my life," he says, which is a lie and untrue but he is totally convinced, just now. He hoists himself onto ride Vitalis... oh, shoulders. Why not make this as perilous as possible. That's one foot on a knee, swing up over, a shoulder, settle in, hold on for dear life. And... ties on the blindfold. Looks agog at Adrienne, laughs again from his perch. "Alright, ah - you just have to - start with three steps forward, and then one left - bit smaller - pause - turn right ehrhhhhhhh not so much. Yes, okay."

3 Last Watch Sentries, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Donella.

When everyone is ready, an officiator runs across the start line and drops a red scarf. That mystery seems solved. It's identical to the one from the sailing race. "START!"


Piccola, being blindfolded, sort of gets off to a rocky start on this race. It doesn't help that she has Kiera on her shoulders. Still, with a startled yelp and bit of teetering, she gets on her way down the race track, although at a distance behind the pack. "Fucking sword," she mutters, as her sword, indeed, sort of interferes with the marching.


"Why did you wear a sword to a games festival?" Hamil heard that, Piccola. And he just has to ask, because he's blindfolded as well, and listening to Thalamina tell him where to go -- but it seems they are drifting into the middle of the pack. "The skirts are fine, Thalamina -- just make sure you have a good grip!"

Yes, Adrienne is riding Drake's shoulders. Somehow, dammit, she finds a posture more at home on a real stallion. With the seriousness that is her habit, she whispers instructions and uses her hands to steer Drake around the course and away from the others, happily behind where they can't collide.

Kiera is really not very good at this,which is no surprise.she's not all that skilled with regular horses

Adrienne checked perception + ride at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Kiera checked perception + dodge at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Thalamina seems to have been in some conversation with Hamil, but when she sees the scarf drop, she seems momentarily caught off guard. "Oooh! Gooo!" she tells Hamil, loosening the silken reins, just like she would if she were riding a real horse, to give him his head. "Keep going straight. Listen to the others around you," she says, perceptive of those nearby. "You're veering a little to the right. Veer the other way a little... now straight. Good horsey," she says, beaming.

Octavian, a silken spaniel, Ruslana, an aide in Kennex livery, 2 Kennex corsairs, Baelos arrive, following Zoey.

Nope. Thea is blindfolded anyway. This is so awkward as she holds onto the Baronesses legs, trying not to drop her. As Margerie directs her where to go, Thea actually, well--she's not doing badly. "This isn't going so bad. I haven't tripped on my gown once!"

Apollo, up on Vitalis' shoulders, laughs when he says left and means right; how often does he have to give these sorts of practical directions to anyone? "No no, watch out for the -" Vitalis gamely pauses, giving a hose-like snort that makes Apollo laugh. "I don't think the baron's lessons prepared me for /this/," he says. "Do you suppose he'll make me have another round? Come on, /right/ then, about... that far, aaaand ahead." Well, they're behind, honestly. OH WELL.

Apollo checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 16 higher.

Drake has a blindfold put on, so he has to use Adrienne to guide him at this moment. Now he has to think like a horse instead of like a rider, which is a bit of a paradigm shift. But at least he's used to thinking about horses. He starts to move forward per her instructions. Horses sometimes have blinders, so maybe this isn't so strange. Fortunately, her first instructions are quite authoritative, and so he manages to keep on track and get a good lead past the other racers. Though for how long can it last? He's having a good time, in any case.

With far more grace than she has on an actual horse, Margerie stays aloft on THea's shoulders and leans in close so she doesn't have to shout orders. She speaks calmly, directing the woman with a fair amount of accuracy.

Margerie checked command + leadership at difficulty 20, rolling 22 higher.

Piccola checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 29, rolling 20 higher.

Thalamina checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 20 higher.

Zoey arrives at the Judgement Green with Prince Baelos Redrain to find members of the nobility... horsing around. "Oh my," Zoey says, covering her mouth to hold back a laugh. "I think we got here at just the right time, your Highness."

Hamil checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 19, rolling 21 higher.

Drake checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 2, rolling 48 higher.

Orick is off to the side watching the game with a large glass of wine, he isn't dressed for a fancy lawn party and he has a book satchel on as if he recently left class and headed over here.

Kiera checked perception + teaching at difficulty 20, rolling 15 higher.


"Why do you speak, Lord Fidante? Nobody marks you." Piccola's tone is laced with the venom that befits her House's moniker. With her arms struggling to hold Kiera in place while being guided by her, her weapon's scabbard jingles and jangles along her legs. And, see? This is why you don't wear silk when you attend festivals with //games//. Anyhow, she carries on, regardless.


Baelos Redrain loves arriving late to a party, with a few drinks already down. In this particular instance, with the summer heat oppressing his Northern constitution, his shirt is also half undone and he looks to be emphasizing comfort over fashion. He smirks at Zoey's comment, "More drinking to be done, it seems." Snatching one from a passing servant, he looks back at Zoey: "Where is Ian? Seems he is never too far from one of these. Or from a drink anyway."

Adrienne spares a look over her shoulder, fingers tightening for purchase against Drake's chest. She winces - /Sorry, Drake/ - but the sight of a decent lead is mollifying. Not that Drake needs to know that. "Faster."

Continuing with a steady hand and calm voice, Margerie continues to guide THea across the field, a giggle escaping now and then at the excitement.

Sitting on Hamil's shoulders is Thalamina, leading him blindfolded with silken reins. She pulls a little on the silken reins, as he seems to be veering off to the left, turning him the other way. "A little this way!" She is gentle though, and maybe that shows in how they fall behind just a little from where they were in the race. "Now straight!" She lets the silken reins slacken again a little, laughing at the silliness of it all. "Maybe a bit faster, if you can manage it? We're behind! Let's win this!" she says, shouting encouragement.

Kiera seems to slightly be getting the hang of this toward the end, which is not saying much still holding down last place "I'm so sorry it seems my brother makes a much better horse than i

"Oh, we're talking about marking me now, Piccola of Tessere? I didn't know that was a thing for you." Hamil calls back to the pocket general as he jogs along, his eyes still covered as he listens for Talamina -- and the pull on the reins of silk as he turns to try to pick up speed. "Are we in last place yet?"

"So you want me to go where?"Thea asks, unseeing. She turns left, as there's a pair of legs squeezing her. "Oh right. Left!" Thea asks with a smirk,"If I start neighing, would this make this more believable?" careful not to shake the woman on her shoulders.

Drake cannot see what's going on at all, but continues to trust in Adrienne's leadership in this situation. He does hold on tight, though as respectfully as possible all the same. She grips onto him, and he lets out a little huff that might be, in fact, a bit horse-like. Maybe he's getting into the character of the thing. He picks up as much pace as he can, barreling straight ahead on her order. "As you wish, Princess."

Apollo, at some point, started laughing up on Vitalis' shoulders, and though he still gives /very/ capable directions, they are totally off pace. He watches as Thalamina and her lovely new haircomb gain distance, and Margerie and Adrienne and their respective partners become distant leaders. There may be some brief conversation about this fact, hushed direction, that leads to Apollo, in among the most assertive moments of his life, scowling, "Don't you /dare/ stop now," before cackling. "Left! Forward! Ow - haha, left again!" He could be nicer about it, but there are no equine lords, probably. Maybe.

Apollo checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 21 higher.

Adrienne checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 25 higher.

Thalamina checked perception + ride at difficulty 20, rolling 25 higher.

Kiera checked perception + teaching at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Margerie checked command + leadership at difficulty 20, rolling 27 higher.

Piccola checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 9 higher.

"He is not typically one for large gatherings," Zoey tells Baelos. She follows this with something quieter, possibly an explanation.

Adalyn has been watching with amusement, but the approach of her assistant draws her attention away from the high-spirited antics. Alphonse's whispered words are met with a contemplative glance and abrupt nod before the Clement rises and makes a quick exit, called away to tend to who knows what.

Adalyn has left the Red and white silk canopy seating.

Anne, a dangerously alluring Seraceni first mate arrives, following Dio.

Anne, a dangerously alluring Seraceni first mate have been dismissed.

Kiera looks toward hamil "Don't you mock her now m'lord. The fault is mine entirely you know." she says, sorry in potentially embarrasing the other woman

Returning to the Judgment Green, Dio bids farewell to Anne with a quiet word. She bows, and uses a nearby torch to light her haze cigarillo as she disappears into the streets, while the marquis makes his way toward those who've gathered in the area reserved for dancing.

Dio has joined the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Kiera is overheard praising Alarissa: what a lovely gathering

Thalamina is overheard praising Alarissa: So much fun was had!

Drake is overheard praising Alarissa.

Piccola is overheard praising Alarissa.

The green may be reserved for dancing, but the antics on the field are the furthest thing from. Men and woman ride atop shoulders in a mock horse race. There are shouts and laughs, skirts hiked and words bandied. Adrienne Valardin appears to be riding Drake Wyvernheart for the lead, but Thea Malcivi and Margerie Clement are achingly close.

Drake checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 5, rolling 41 higher.

Hamil checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 5, rolling 98 higher. Hamil rolled a critical!

Baelos trades a few quiet words with Zoey, but then quiet is not really his style. After figuring out this is a footrace, he quickly chooses a favorite and cheers after Thea and Margerie - more fun to cheer for the underdogs. "Don't be afraid to trip them!!!"

Kiera is overheard praising Piccola: for being the best of sports

Thea is overheard praising Alarissa.

Adrienne is overheard praising Apollo.

Thea is overheard praising Margerie.

Kiera has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Margerie is overheard praising Alarissa.

As she sees the others pull further ahead, Thalamina looses her grip on the silken reins, and digs her kitten-heeled boots into Hamil's ribs just as if he were a real horse! "Come on, my lord! We can do this! Keep going straight. No... not that straight, your other straight! There... now let's race!" She leans forward a little, as if she were riding a real horse, fiery braid bouncing down her back, brand new golden comb winking at Apollo and Vitalis from behind. In spite of her intensity, she's clearly enjoying the frolick, her features alight with amusement.

Margerie is overheard praising Alarissa.

Baelos is overheard praising Thea.

Baelos is overheard praising Margerie.

Margerie is overheard praising Thea.

Thea can't help it really. "Trip? Who's that?!" But she keeps moving, taking direction fairly well,"Listen tripper caller! I've already fallen on a lap this evening, I'm not sure if I can risk tripping someone when I can't see and risk breaking a Laruent Baroness!" She grins. "We're riding friends now after all."

Thea is overheard praising Vitalis.


Well, so much for there being a Shakespearean rivalry between Lady Piccola and Lord Hamil.

The Littlest of Snakes continues to trod on with Kiera on her shoulder until she eventually gets over the line. At that point, she pulls off her blindfold, a little breathless, and the Lady Wyvernheart from her slowly and carefully. "Fun race, what?" she asks of her rider, straightening.

Despite the placement, she seems in reasonably good spirits.


Drake is racing in the lead at the start, and doing his best, but the possibility of an upset always exists. He can hear the sound of ...some other horse group coming up from behind him in a very close race. And he picks up the pace... But is there some other rider that is going to upset the whole thing? He can't tell exactly, because he's blinfolded, but it certainly sounds like this might be a close call and he feels the rumbling of being passed as he gets close to the end of the course.

Oh, great, the Redrain is rooting against her. Adrienne smiles sharply, leaning and turning, murmuring and frowning to try to keep her blindfolded partner, uh, alive. She can hear the approach from behind, tries to find some extra speed for Drake - but there's nothing she or he can do. Hamil appears to be part stallion.

Alarissa is overheard praising Thea: For your loss at Musical Loungers

Margerie urges Thea onward, they are so close! Drake and Adrienne are just ahead and easily passable if... if Hamil had not suddenly sprouted wings? She watches him shoot past.

Hamil was having fun in this race, and then Thalamina went all serious -- and spurred him on. No more silk, the heels dig into his ribs and he gasps sharply before he's picking up speed, as fast as he can, heart and blood pounding in his ears as he is suddenly picking up the pace and without realizing it, when Thalamina leans over, he's pushed into a racing position as he runs and runs... and keeps on running until Thalamina tells him to STOP.

"...did we finish in last?" he asks his 'rider'.

Alarissa is overheard praising Hamil: For crashing his ship

"Less talking, more racing Lady Thea!!" Baelos urges in his booming voice.

None of this is Vitalis' fault. He could, almost certainly, lead them all the way to victory on his own, with competent leadership. But Apollo's attempts to lead with his knees as if Vitalis is /actually a horse/ do no good (there's nothing there, boss), and the way it makes him laugh doesn't help either. By the time people start crossing the finish line, he's howling, and at last (when it no longer matters at all) he strips the blindfold off to demonstrate just how far from winning they are. "You're a good horse, but we don't have the rapport I've got with Braci," he says, and pats Vitalis' cheek. Then, leather pants squeaking, he offers: "Let me down?"

Alarissa is overheard praising Kiera: For giving her all in the horse race!

Alarissa is overheard praising Piccola: For leading that 'beast' so well!

Margerie is overheard praising Hamil.

Margerie is overheard praising Thalamina.

Alarissa is overheard praising Anisha: For her donation!

Adrienne sits back - not far back, she doesn't want to fall - and releases her deathgrip on Drake's shirt. She rips loose the blindfold and smiles, still sharp, to Hamil and Thalamina. "Look there and see the face of victory, my Lord. You were an excellent partner." She waits a beat, hands resting on her thighs, before she remembers a very specific dilemma. "Ah. How should I get down?"

Alarissa is overheard praising Monique: For her donation!

Thea is about to give it all she has, even tightening her grip. But there's a breeze that flies her by her. "Gods and spirits! Who WAS that?!" She turdges forward still, asking amusedly,"Do I get to keep this damn blindold?!"

Alarissa is overheard praising Apollo: For his donation!

Dio laughs to himself as he watches the race (?) grow ever more competitive. When Piccola removes her blindfold, the marquis raises his glass in salute.

As they pass Thea and Margerie, and then Adrienne and Drake, Thalamina lets out a little whoop and a cheer! Then she realizes they've reached the finish line, and she yells, "Stop, stop! Look! We won!" She laughs with delight. She lets the silken reins drop, and leans down to give him a spontaneous hug. "We did it!"

Drake lets out a huff as the race ends. Adrienne removes his blindfold. "Ah... did we not win?" He wasn't sure. But nope. He grins at Hamil nonetheless.

Then he remembers the Princess is still there, and very carefully sets her down on the ground. He's careful not to tug her skirts too much in the process. "Ah. There you go. You have quite a grip," he says.

Thea is overheard praising Hamil.

Thea is overheard praising Thalamina.

Drake is overheard praising Hamil.

Drake is overheard praising Thalamina.

Returning Talamina's hug, Hamil laughs and returns it, before finally moving to set the Shepherd lady down. "I feel like I've been ridden hard and put away wet." he mutters to himself. And he lets Thalamina pick first from the chest.

As the horse race dissolves Orick slips away without any formal farewells, disappearing into the crowds and making his way to the edge of the green.

Drake is overheard praising Adrienne: Thanks for a fine ride!

Indeed, Thalamina and Hamil have won, pulling through the finish line and bursting past others who all try their hardest as well. And what's waiting for them is that chest that's brought over for them to pick something from.

And Alarissa's moving in from the group she was circulating with to stand up on one of those low tables and clink a piece of cutlery against her glass "The door prize! If we're done riding our fellows around the course"

Adrienne smooths the skirts of her gown and uncuffs her sleeves while casting Drake a laughing look. "I thought we had it. Your training shows, even in these circumstances. I think we could do even better in the future." Because this is a skill that comes up all the time, of course. "Would you take a boon as a consolation? We should go for a ride in more traditional circumstances." She's a Valardin. That's almost certainly not meant as an entendre.

Helping Margerie down, Thea is amused as she says,"Thanks for being on top,"her sounding a bit breathless. That was fun, really. Seeing Baelos, Zoey, and Dio, the Malvici offers them a wave them, swiping the stray pieces of hair from her eyes.

Baelos appears a little deflated as his chosen team doesn't finish with a victory. So it goes - he nurses his disappointment with a fresh drink, "Anyone you wanted to speak with?" He asks Zoey, "Or shall I just insert myself into a conversation as usual?" He flashes a smile.

Apollo gets a hand from Vitalis, slides down off his shoulders /very/ inelegantly, umbra shirt sticking to him. "That was ridiculous," he says, and claps him on the shoulder, smile dimming but only to approximately high-noon sun level. "Let's go see what the door prize was, then -" a pause, considering. "A bath. I've never needed a bath so badly in my life."

Margerie slips off Thea's shoulders with as much dignity as one can and straightens her gown. And puts her shoes back on. She is a LADY, after all. She offers THea a hug of thanks and congratulations. "We did not do so bad, after all!"

"Thank you," Drake says to Adrienne. "And I would love that," He does take the ride invitation at face value, not as innuendo. "I need to keep up with my horsemanship in preparation for the joust." He looks at Thea and Margerie, wiping a bit of sweat from his brown with the remains of the removed blindfold. "Good race."

Thalamina lowers herself down from Hamil, helping him remove the blindfold, and she looks to him for a moment, murmuring something softly. She doesn't look at the chest right away, her full attention on him for a moment. Then she turns away a little, and glances at the chest, and fingers the comb in her hair. She looks hesitant, but finally goes to inspect the items.

Zoey waves back to Thea, smiling. "Let's go say hello to one of my favorite Malvicis," she answers Baelos, moving to a more appropriate conversational distance. "Well run, Lady Thea! It looked like fun out there."

Alarissa has rolled 1 23-sided dice: 15

Hamil gets fractured by firelight tracing a strapless rose-foiled gown tracing every curve jealously from Gift Chest.

Thalamina gets an exquisite praseodymium-scaled net laid on a pewter-misted gown with a mermaid skirt pooling at the feet from Gift Chest.

Alarissa turns as an enormous glass bowl and scraps of parchment within all bearing numbers. She dips a hand in and fishes around before bringing up a number which she nimbly turns in her fingers and calls out "Fifteen. Lady Adalyn Clement" A gesture to one of the servants and the small box there.

Adrienne calls over to Margerie, "WELL done, Baroness. Woe to any who underestimates you." Thea earns a respectful tilt of her head as the larger crowd swarms her. A look passes back to Drake. "I'm thrilled for the joust, and to know you'll be competing. It would be an honor to train with you." She flicks a glance to the stars. "Enjoy your evening, Lord Drake."

Rising from the table along with Ras, Rukhnis leads him by the hand across the grass, moving not towards the centre of the park but off towards the fringes of the green, where the music of the players can still be heard but the crowd is thinned out.


Piccola spies Dio from afar, and holds up her hand to salute him.

She plucks open another clasp. It is hot as a fire out, and she's just been lifting and running. Best to air her throat and collarbones than to let sweat sink into that fine silk shirt of hers. "Now I know how my horse feels," she says to no one in particular, although she does catch the talk about going for a ride. She can't help it: once a stable-hand, always a stable-hand. And when the winner of the door prize is announced, the Tessere woman puts her hands together for a polite clap.

She sort of backs away from the green, then, apparently not wanting to remain in the spotlight.


Piccola has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

After stepping away from Thalamina with a few small words, Hamil goes through the chest for several moments. Finding what he is looking for after several minutes, he pulls out a dress. And he makes his way over to Piccola, to present it to her with a few quiet words.

Oh look. A tray with fresh drinks. Thea plucks one and smiles over at Drake. "You both as well. I think I'm keeping this blindfold. I earned it." Looking over to Zoey, she chuckles,"It was. As were the others. At one point, I landed on poor Apollo's lap." Thea apologetically glances at the man, giving him a slight smile. "He has the best lap though." Adrienne gets a smile as well,"That was well done..."

Alarissa has rolled 1 23-sided dice: 4

Baelos is almost never appropriate, but certainly leaves Zoey some room lest he receive an arrow to the knee. He seems content to follow her lead, taking lazy long strides across the lawn. He offers Thea a smile and raises his glass, "I never have been good at betting races. Hopefully I wasn't bad luck."

Margerie congratulates Hamil and Thalamina. She flashes a grin at Adrienne. "Or catches me with a knitting needle?" She asks, winking at their shared joke.

Ras stands from the table, holding Rukhnis' hand and following her lead. On the grassy outskirts again, he turns to face the Eurusi woman and his empty palm settles to her waist. He leans his head in to whisper something.

Ras has left the small circular table.

Orick is overheard praising Alarissa: For not just hosting a gathering but doing so with aplomb at the last minute and providing lots of fun games and merriment.

Rukhnis has left the small circular table.

"Thank you, Princess. Be seeing you," Drake says to Adrienne with a nod. "I'll send a messenger by about the ride." He looks curiously at Apollo for just a moment as Thea gives that compliment.

But Adalyn departed already and the servant is soon told that and the prize is put to the side to be delivered later. Alarissa dips in again to pull another number. "Number 4, Marquise Dio Seraceni!" She calls out, looking around as someone steps forward with a box from Apollo's shop.

Alarissa has rolled 1 23-sided dice: 2

Alarissa has rolled 1 23-sided dice: 2

Alarissa has rolled 1 23-sided dice: 21

Thalamina smiles to Margerie at the congratulations. "It was a close race," she says with a little smile. She holds a green dress in her hans, pulled from the trunk. She turns then, and listens to Hamil as he murmurs to her, then nods. She watches as he goes to speak with Piccola, tilting her head curiously. She seems aglow with happiness, but also a little daydreamy, as if the length of the day and its exertions are staring to take a toll."

Ras checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Apollo gestures expansively at Vitalis, like to say: SEE? SHE SAID IT AGAIN. BEST LAP.


Piccola, on her way out of the green, is stopped by Hamil.

After the young Lord murmurs to her, she looks ... surprised? Mildly. Confused. "Lord Fidante." She lifts an eyebrow. "I appreciate this, thank you." She gives a momentary smile. "But you needn't worry if I am angered. I am not. But you must understand -- " She gestures at herself. " -- I am what I am. And you have caught me at a time when I have much on my mind." She touches him on the forearm with a hand. "There's no grudge. But if this is a gift, I will accept it."

Because he'd look funny in that gown.


Dio smiles at Thea, and offers a brief, but respectful bow of his head. "Well run, My Lady." He takes a sip of his rum. His dark eyes catch sight of Vitalis, and he approaches as Apollo speaks of a bath. "Good to see you, My Lord. I think it's been since my Explorer's test, since I've had the pleasure -" When Alarissa calls his name, Dio turns suddenly to look upon the Princess of Maelstrom. He steps over to the person presenting the box, and says to Alarissa, "Thank you, Your Highness."

Rukhnis says something back to Ras just as softly, and then lifts her head to give him a faintly questioning look. She shifts her grip in his hand just a little, then lays her other hand on his shoulder and assumes a poised attitude, waiting.

And then the last number is called, though it takes a few tries and Alarissa sighing. "No, it can't go to her. She's the one who donated such" Annoyance. But then one more dip in with her hand and there's another name. "Princess Consort Donella Redrain, number 21" Another one not present. "And that, is all the door prizes. While we could not partake of the masquerade, I am delighted that we could at least gather here and partake of everyones company. The winner of the Sailing race was Lady Alessia, who has walked away with a lovely little goat from the keaton household. Do continue to enjoy yourself."

"I said it was a gift. And that is what it is, Piccola." Hamil gives the Tessere general a smile and a bow of his head. "We are in the same fealty and group. If we cannot see past our differences and help each other -- and I should have seen past my own shortsightness in the moment. I hope if you ever want to talk..." he leaves it at that as he sketches a proper bow, leaving the dress with Piccola as he steps back to let her have her space.

"Not everyone has the luck," Zoey tells Baelos. "But gambling is overrated anyway."


"Sit with me, briefly, Lord Hamil," invites Piccola shortly, taking a seat in an canopied area.


Piccola has joined the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

Ras smiles at a quiet question from Rukhnis and at the shadowy fringes of the festivities, begins to lead her through a distant waltz. Back stiff, he makes no missteps, and each swept step of his boots through the grass is graceful and slow. He closes some of the distance to the Eurusi woman, and it's possible he's speaking to her in a low murmur.

Adrienne pulls her hair back from her face, willing it into some kind of compliance, and as she passes Vitalis and Apollo, humor flares in bright green eyes. Alarissa speaks. Adrienne lowers her hands to applaud the hostess. Then she joins Zoey, inserting herself into the conversation with regal lack of concern for intrusions.

"Zoey, would you introduce me to the man who tried to see me flat in the dirt?" It's said straight-faced as she adjusts braids, fixes strands, but a delayed quirk at the corner of her mouth might give voice to her humor.

Rukhnis checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Thalamina turns toward Alarissa as she speaks following the deliver of the last door prize, and dips a curtsey to the Princess-Consort. "Thank you for hosting such an entertaining event, your Highness," she says with a warm smile. Then she takes herself off back to the blue and purple pavilion, where Maurice is waiting for her. She glances thorugh her lashes toward Hamil as he speaks with Piccola, but she seems hesitant to involve herself in whatever they are discussing. She sets the green gown in her lap, and picks up a drink she left behind long ago. She checks it first, to make sure there are no bugs in it, then takes a sip of it when she is certain there aren't.

Thalamina has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Looking around quickly, Margerie notes that both her husband and step-daughter have departed the festivities already. She approaches Apollo and Vitalis. "Perhaps I can borrow Vitalis to escort me home when it is time to leave?" She murmurs to them both. She rests a hand on APollo's shoulder. "You did well."

Thalamina has joined the Purple and blue silk canopy seating.

Vitalis bows to Margerie, "Of course, Baroness."

And let's be honest, except for the scars on his shoulder, Hamil would /rock/ that dress.

Zoey laughs. "Oh certainly! Princess Adrienne Valardin, meet Prince Baelos Redrain," she introduces them. "Prince Baelos, Princess Adrienne. She is a friend of mine and one of my best archery students."

Hamil has left the A Grassy Area Cleared For Dancing.

Hamil has joined the Green and blue silk caonpy seating.

Taking a drink, Thea is pretty content. When Hamil gifts Piccola with a gown, she smiles over her glass. Her eyes also drift to Dio when his name is announced for a prize. "Prince Baelos, you bet on the best team. Just so you know..." There is amusement on her face as she goes somewhere to sit. Or mingle.

Alarissa smiles to those who thank, dippling her head before easing down with help from a servant so she can mingle