A dutiful Valardin aide, Juba'al'samara, a Suj'abbati royal guardsman, 2 Valardin Knights arrive, following Katarina.

Katarina arrives, following Alantir.

More drinking! More dancing! More...people sleeping it off as best they can, cloaks or blankets thrown over their heads to dull the sound of merrymaking. The Days of Libation continue. Caprice stands on a platform with a flagon in hand, a small platter of assorted foods nearby while she checks over some notes.

Alban, an enormous palomino destrier with massive feathered hooves, Bird arrive, following Svoli.

Brigida is there, sat in her chair at the moment, watching the drinking and dancing while idly tracing patterns in the sand with the end of her staff, humming to herself as she does so.

Merek makes a way along to the beaches with his dark attire on, potion belt at the waist. He shifts along with the cape that he wears, then nods to people he knows, settling in to watch, not participating this time while he finds a drink of water.

Alantir is not drunk, but anyone watching him awkwardly plod across the beachfront might find this hard to believe. The sand, uneven beneath sabatons, makes sustaining a normal gait impossible -- no matter how frequently he attempts to compensate for it. By some miracle, he accomplishes this objective without making a complete fool of himself, eventually slowing to a complete halt and straightening his posture.

A completely sober Medeia has been an ever-present figure at the beach the past few days as she helped coordinate the events for Good Harvest and the first Day of Libation. This day? This day the Harlequin gets to enjoy the festivities as a guest. Her hair has been elaborately braided to prevent the wind off the sea from blowing it all in her face, and a dress of shimmering sunset hued honeysilk floats around her. The Eswynd lady seems unfussy about that dress, having settled herself right in the sand with her giant cat on her lap to keep her warm.

Bartolomeo, protege of Signora Lauretta Tessere arrives, following Yuri.

12 House Velenosa Guards, Ibasia, the Velenosa Lady-in-Waiting, Ellani, the palm sized spider, Sir Thad Quackington arrive, following Jaenelle.

Bianca is not far from the wave break with a bottle of 'Harlequins Bliss Golden Rum' that Sir Alren was in the process of opening and Scholar Duran beside her holding a bowl of water. The trio were chatting quietly as they prepared for the final official ceremony of the festival.

Cerys arrives a little early, prompt as is the norm for a Knight of Gloria and not so normal for a Velenosa Princess. She wears a gown fit for her status, nothing too fancy just a simple yet elegant number in ocean blue and gold. She drift through the sands of the beach, wearing boots of sturdy golden hued leather rather than heels because heels are not practical in sand. Making her way towards the platform she smiles gently eyes seeking out members of the faith who might be nearby and observng the party around her.

Yuri took a stride along the crisp piece of land that sand and grass met one another before he began to tread down on the sands themselves, peering off at the guests with a cordial nod and polite bow before a reverent bow set to the trio at the break of the waves. He glanced along down to Medeia with a smile, settling beside her on the sands as a hesitant hand came along to offer a friendly pat to the cat settled in the woman's lap; a steady brow plastered on as if he was okay doing such and wouldn't get his hand mangled.


And from behind Alantir: Katarina. The diminutive Eurusi-born Valardin Princess steps out from her cousin's shadow, so to speak. Even with his awkward strides, he's still got sheer height advantage on the short-legged Princess, and she's not exactly nimble in bounding over the dunes herself. She catches up to Alantir, and looks sidelong at the soldier, her eyes just about all that's visible of her, thanks to her veil (also visible: hands; hair). She huffs and puffs a bit. She's a little bit out of shape. At least, when it comes to dune-striding. "I already see several to whom I must introduce you, cousin," she sotto-voices upward.

At least Alantir doesn't stand out too much in this crowd! Lots of awkward walking going on, this deep into the Hangover Holydays. With a nod and a murmured request to an assistance, Caprice moves to step off the platform and approach Bianca.

Newer arrivals are encouraged to take a garland off a scarecrow if they haven't already, to join the sea of bobbing wheat and hop heads already present.

Medeia takes a garland woven from harvest crops and autumn leaves from a Days of Libation Scarecrow draped in garlands - Please Take One.

Svoli arrives astride Alban, the stallion ambling along at a slow walk as they approach the crowd. From her perch, the Volkov lady lets her eyes wander the crowds from the outside for a long moment as she looks for any familiar faces. When she spots Brigida, she'll offer a bit of a nod and a little wave before patting Alban smartly on the shoulder and dismounting.

Svoli takes a garland woven from harvest crops and autumn leaves from a Days of Libation Scarecrow draped in garlands - Please Take One.

Yuri takes a garland woven from harvest crops and autumn leaves from a Days of Libation Scarecrow draped in garlands - Please Take One.

Katarina takes a garland woven from harvest crops and autumn leaves from a Days of Libation Scarecrow draped in garlands - Please Take One.

Bianca turned as Caprice slipped up to her through the writhe of festival goers, her soft smile perking. Sir Alren dipped a respectful nod to the woman and Scholar Duran... well he just looked tired as he always did. The two godsworn stepped back to give the women space, handing off the bowl of water and opened bottle of 'Harlequins Bliss Golden Rum' to the Legate.

"Yuri," Medeia says warmly, her own hands gently keeping the cat still for the Tessere lord's attempt to pet. Fluffy, who has hid from the familiar man before, seems to be taking comfort in the presence of another human she recognizes though. The large wildcat doesn't love crowds. "How are you?" The Harlequin asks, looking at him with genuine care. She notes Katarina and lifts one hand in a gesture of greeting to the somewhat-familiar princess.

"Or, to prevent a catastrophic end to an otherwise pleasant evening, you could do the bulk of the talking," the knight replies, voice muffled by visor. Gaze surveys the festivalgoers warily. If not made evident by the shell that he wore, socialization was not the man's strong suit. "Go on. I'll follow. Make your rounds, flatter the hosts, drink your beverages." A gauntlet gives her smaller frame a gentle push forward.

Cerys watches the crowds gather around and mill about. Katarina's beautiful veil gets a look of admiration and a gentle smile. She dips her head to the woman and approches, ocean blue skirts trimmed with golden stitching sparkling softly. "Hello. I love your viel. Its beautiful. The style in very exotic. I am Princess Cerys Velenosa. Its an honor to meet you." She smiles kindly.


Katarina gives Alantir an askance look. Even though her veil covers her smile, it can still be detected in the mirth of her voice and a gleam in her golden eyes. "You do not plan to drink anything? Cousin." That last word is a gentle but non-serious chide. Just in time for Cerys to approach. Katarina dips herself into a curtsy. "Princess, it is my pleasure and honor. I am Princess Katarina Valardin~." Some of Katarina's words have taken on a bit of an Oathlands sound, but even after years in the compact, her accent remains thoroughly the property of the Dune Kingdoms of Eurus. "This is my cousin, Prince Alantir~."

Brigida squints when she sees Svoli and the horse coming along the beach and she raises her staff in greeting, the sudden action causing her Disciples to almost dive aside in panicked anticipation of a thwacking. There are no thwacks forthcoming from the Iron Thorn though. She chortles at that reaction before calling out from her chair, "My cup is empty!" and then looking expectantly around.

When encouraged to do so, Svoli grabs a garland from the scarecrow and looks at it a moment before placing it on top of her twisted and braided hair, wheat blond hair. It goes well with the little crown of antler bits already there, and the feathers, beads and bones tied into her locks. She turns back to her horse with a grin. "Whatcha think, Alban?" She asks, and Alban replies by whuffling the garland and then trying to take a bit out of it. Luckily Svoli ducks aside just in time with a chuckle. "No eating my hat." She scolds him gently before straightening it and heading towards Brigida with a grin. "I could try and help you with that if you tell me what you're drinking."



Final consultation concluded, Caprice withdraws again to help herself to a more elevated post in order to address the crowd. Ring ring ring! A bell jangles cheerfully in an attempt to pull attention from the drinks and eats and chats.

"Friends! Welcome back to this, the closing Day of Libation; we're so pleased to see everyone. I'll be taking sign ups for the Boasts, Roasts and Toasts in just a little bit, and the rules are posted if you're interested in competing! But first: Please join me in turning attention to Mother Bianca, who will be leading us once more in prayer, and afterwards, announcing the winner of the hangover cure contest."

Smiling warmly, she pivots to face the Legate, hands clasping attentively.



Bianca moved toward the water's edge, autumnal hues of the garland she wore burning like fire in comparison to the snowy white of her hair and pale, bare feet sunk into the sand with each step before turning to face the gathering. In one hand a small bowl of water, in the other a bottle of 'Harlequin's Bliss Golden Rum. She turned to face the crowd. "On this last day of the Days of Libation we speak the invocation of gratitude for Mangata. At the completion of the prayer, in praise of the Pearl of the Sea, please feel free to cast a dollop of your drink to the waves so that the Azure Mother may receive our offering and join our festivities."


Yuri smiled lightly to the wildcat, giving a few gentle scritches to the top of Fluffy's head before glanced over to Medeia with a smile, "Hello, Deia. I'm good, I'm quite good!" He kept his voice down marginally enough to allow the introductions and greetings to be said as his eyes cast forward to spy Bianca and Caprice. He cast another glance about those that were trickling in to the beachfront, giving polite nods before spying the particular bottle that the Legate had been holding. His brow parted upward in surprise, a glance to Medeia as he gave her a gentle nudge; finger quickly motioning to the bottle.

Cerys smiles and curtseies to Katarina in respect. "An honor indeed. Perhaps we can speak more later. For now I should join the prayers no?" She smiles and turns her attention to Caprice and Bianca as they ring the bell and address the crowds. As Mangata is prayed to she bows her head and presses her hands together, her eyes gaze to the wave reverently. and she whispers a respectful prayer to the Lady of the Waves asking for her blessing on thier gathering and the upcoming season.

A garland is pulled from one of the scarecrows and placed upon Jaenelle's head as she moves through the crowd, though it is not hard to spot the High Lord due to the amount of guards trailing behind her to make sure no one decides to stab her this evening. Then a glass of something finds its way into her hand, and it is passed to another who sips and hands it back. There is a pause, a moment where she watches as if she expects the guard to fall over and die. When the guard does not, infact, become poisoned, Jaenelle takes her own sip. Her attention shifts from the glass to Caprice, then to Bianca.

"Of course I won't. It's difficult enough to navigate in this platemail as is," Alantir replies gruffly, attention shifting to Cerys. "Your Highness," he offers, dipping chin in polite greeting. Next came Caprice's announcement, and then Bianca's call to prayer. Rather than make a complete fool of himself in the presence of polite company, he remains silent -- content to convey his thanks to Mangata internally.

Brigida hands her wooden cup to Svoli and pats the Volkov's hand, "Surprise me with anything not poisoned... Now let me listen to Mother Bianca so I can take notes and tell her what she is doing wrong later." She chortles at that and squints at Bianca, listening intently.

Once the explanation was finished, the Legate turned, pouring the bowl of cool and clear water first to the wave break. A splash of Holy Water from the Font of Mangata. Bianca then proceeded to the invocation of gratitude, her voice lifting to the waves.

"Our Lady, Bright Star of the Ocean, Azure Mother, Pearl of Grace,
We come to you in gratitude to honor all the many boons you have provided.
For all the bounty of the sea,
For all the winds in the need,
For all the safe harbors,
For protection while we are about wind and wave,
For all the rains of growth and nourishment,
And for watching over all those who toil on ship and stead.

Blessed are you, Star of the Sea, our Goddess Mangata.
Behold us now as we honor you with your gift of water,
which we offer back to you
With our voices strong, may our grateful declarations of
your boons carry on the winds,
reaching to Elysia.

May festival rite serve to show you the depth of our love,
And we pray that our love will grow deeper as you continue to sustain and
watch over us.

In your name, we praise. So let it be!"

And then the holy woman proceeded to pour some of the bottle of 'Harlequin's Bliss Golden Rum' as she had with the holy water before turning to again face the crowd. "Let the Boasts, Roasts and Toasts begin! In addition, this year's winner of the Hangover Curative is Tanith Grayhope with her entry of 'Tanith's Hangover Cure'! I would highly recommend reaching out to her to order a bottle!"

Clarisse, Einarr arrive, following Saito.


When Cerys steps away, Katarina folds her hands in front of her lap, bowing her head and listening to the prayer. She's probably silently saying a prayer of her own, the little darling. When the prayer is finished and the contest winner announced, Katarina dutifully joins in any applause, and then looks to Alantir: "Have you found much of a social circle of your own since coming to the city, cousin? Hobbies, interests, passions...~?"

"How am I supposed to know it's not poisoned?" Svoli asks easrnestly even as she takes the wooden cup from the Archlector. Moving as quietly as she can while the prayer is happening, she hits up a table with some refreshments and pours herself and Brigida some ale, after sniffing it for anything funny, before returning to the woman with the drinks, offering her the wooden cup. She then stops to listen to the prayer in respectful silence.

Medeia tips her head to Yuri to say something quietly to him, her hands smoothing over the fur of the cat in her lap. "A bit," She says quietly to the man, but she offers a soft smile and a gentle nudge. From where they are sitting on the sand, she can't help but notice Jaenelle. "Archduchess! Good to see you!" A hand is lifted to wave to her.

Einarr slips on to the beach and pauses when he relizes he is interupting a prayer. He stops and takes a dutiful prayerful attitude. He is dressed in a simple linen shirt and hide pants with boots. His red hair done in braids includeing his beard. He stays silent and waits for it to end.

With the large man is Lady Clarisse of House Charon and Sir Saito, A young knight that is part of the same house. THey are walking with Einarr.

Saito, Clarisse and Einarr arrive together, standing on the edge of the crowd. Saitoo bows politely as he realises there is prayer going on. The knight is dressed the same as Einarr. A faintt perfumed smell comes from the knight, who cilently kneels in prayer.

From Caprice's flagon, a short pour of burgundy liquid is offered to the sea, her head bowing reverently and mouth moving in quieter words of praise and thanks, supplementing Bianca's invocation. At its conclusion, she dips her head again in gratitude to the Legate, voice rising to include the gathering again, "Thank you, Mother Bianca. And congratulations, Tanith! Both sober and later me thank you for your contribution."

Raising her hand, she bids the people, "Please - eat, drink, be merry! And come along with me if you're hoping to see, or be, amongst the cleverest minds in the city as decided by the contest of Boasts, Roasts and Toasts!"



Waiting until the prayer is finished, Jaenelle takes off her slippers and hands them to a different assistant, enjoying the coolness of the sand. "Lady Eswynd, I was just thinking of you" she informs the woman matter of factly, moving closer to she and Yuri. "You owe me a story" she then adds in explination of why she was thinking of the woman in the first place. "I have not forgotten, and still very much expect it. You said it was long, I am anticipating something great." A dip of her head is given to Yuri then, "Lord Tessere" she greets the man after. "I think I will participate in this, will you both be?"

The young Charon Lady, dressed in a light blue gown tonight, enters aloong side both Einarr and Saito. She does not speak a word though at the sight of the prayer, her head also respectfully bowing and waiting for the end. She does look a bit uncertain but the beach has enough room that it should hopefully not feel so crowded, looking around at the beach though, brings a smile to her features, while she looks off in the distance a moment.

Jaenelle has joined the line.

Once the prayer and applause have concluded, Alantir again turns his head toward the Eurusi woman. "No hobbies, but plenty of interests. I am particularly fond of jousts and tourneys," the man confesses, folding arms across breastplate. "They're calling for participants. Quick wit, sharp tongue. Wouldn't you excel in a contest such as this?" A pause. "Oh. I did attend a masked ball. Danced with a redheaded woman of some significance. Quite the experience."

Brigida pffs as Svoli brings the drink back and she scoffs, "You have a drink but take a sip from it first to show that it isn't poisoned." She doesn't accept the cup from Svoli until the wild Volkov takes a sip first.

Yuri clapped along at the Legate's prayer, bowing his head reverently to issue back the call in which Bianca had ended with before the festivities were announced in earnest. He clapped lightly with a smile, glancing to Medeia with a smile before she had been calling for the Archduchess. His brow perked up marginally, nodding heavily as Jaenelle made her way over to the pair. "Ah, Archduchess! Good tidings to you. I...mm, I cannot stay for too long; I wanted to pay my respects for as long as I could before my business would take me away."

"You ever seen any of these people before, lady Clarisse?" Saito asks once the prayer is concluded and he has risen from his kneeling position. He looks at the large group of people, clear interest in the light-skinned man's eyes. Next, his gaze goes to the food. "This place and scenery.. Its just breath-taking," the young knight says after a moment of contemplation.

Svoli looks at Brigida as if she can't really be serious for a moment. But with a sigh, and the slightest roll of her eyes, she takes a sip from the woman's wooden cup before trying to hand it to her then. "There. Not poisoned. I got the same here anyway." She says, holding up her own glass that she also sips from.

Katarina has joined the line.

Caprice shouts from nearby, "Welcome to the Boasts, Roasts and Toasts! This is your chance, at last, to show 'em all just how sharp you -really- are! Please take another minute to read over the contest rules, while our impartial judges situate themselves out in the audience. We'll begin shortly!"

Brigida has joined the line.


Katarina looks to Alantir, and offers out her arm, that the Prince can escort her toward the contest with proper royal decorum. "A redhead, mm? I'll have to remember your preference as I survey this gathering for someone who might help you expand that social circle. Will you join as well, brave knight? Surely, you've done much worth boasting over."

Bianca handed off the bottle and bowl in her hands to Scholar Duran who in turn passed back the Legate's drink cup. She moved up the coast to join her fellow holy lady, Brigida, careful not to trip in the sand on her way there.

"Oh," Medeia smiles up at Jaenelle, "I do still intend to tell you that story. Pick the time, please, and I'll meet you." Her expression falls into a small frown. "You're not staying?" The question is asked of Yuri, clearly disappointed. However, the question of whether she'll be joining the festivities as more than an observer gives her pause - she looks a bit tired, truthfully, and she frets about her answer. "Well, alright. Yes, I could I suppose."

Medeia has joined the line.

THWACK! Brigida's staff sweeps out to rap Svoli's shins (not *too* hard mind) in response to the eyerolling. "You may not always get away with that attitude when dealing with others so remember to mind yourself hmmm?"

Cerys has joined the line.

"No," he says sharply, dismissing the idea without so much as moment's hesitation. Fortunately, Katarina's arms is nonetheless accepted. The knight escorts the princess to the line of intrigued competitors and stands idle at her side, curious as to who -- or what -- would be made fun of first. "I do have thick skin, should you require a punching bag."

Harlen arrives, following Duarte.

"Ow!" Svoli exclaims when she gets her shins rapped, offering the older woman a sheepish look. "Right, will do. Sorry." She mumbles apologetically even as she leans over to rub at the back of her leg with a brief grimace.


ROUND 1 - BOASTS!

The names are written in, the judges have likely given their discreet 'ready' signals to the hostess. "Competitors!" Caprice calls out with a grin. "It's time to introduce yourselves. Let us know who you are, and what your opponents are up against!"

(oldcheck COMMAND + propaganda OR performance at 15! And emote at will. Need inspiration? Think of Gaston (no one's slick as Gaston, no one's quick as Gaston!) or The Devil Went Down to Georgia ("I'll take your bet, you're gonna regret 'cause I'm the best that's ever been")


"Would I look better as a redhead?" Jaenelle asks Katarina, hearing her words as she moves to join the line, lifting a hand to her not red hair. "Someone once said I should dye it red, but I never got around to doing it. It seems hard to keep up with and I might not have the time dedicated to such." Alantir is given a smile and dip of her head in greeting as he escorts Katarina. Then she nods towards Yuri, "alas sometimes business is never ending even in times of enjoyment when you would wish to stay but cannot. Be well on your travels back behind the wall. There is a look of appreciation for Medeia when she too joins in the game. "I am sure it wont be too taxing."

And that surprisingly gentle 'thwack' occurred just about the time Bianca arrived at Brigida's side, inquisitive silver hues shifting over Svoli with a mild arch of her brow and small but polite smile on her lips. "Blessed be." She greeted the pair, her cup coming to a cradle between her hands though she turned as Caprice began announcements for the beginnings of the boasts.

Merek checked command + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

Clarisse offers with a warm smile to Saito, offering honestly, "Only one Sir Saito, and only just, I am afraid the rest are none I know. I admit to feeling a fish out of water, here." She does offer a warm nod of her head in the direction of Medeia. "I know I have met her once before but i can not recall where it was." Her voice kept soft as she answers, "But sometimes you just have to jump into the fire in order to get to know new faces." So she steps forward to the first she sees and does what she knows would be expected of a Lady. "Trust your instincts Sir Saito." She offers softly as she approaches Janaelle, hopefully not interrupting her, being respectful with someone she does not know. "Good evening, I apologize I am new here, I am Lady Clarisse Charon."

Jaenelle checked command + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 41 higher.


Katarina pats Alantir's arm as though to say 'oh, stop' when he offers himself as a punching bag. The Valardin Princess looks to the Archduchess of the Lyceum, and that mischievous gleam shines in her golden eyes again: "I tell you what, Your Grace -- I will answer you when I reach the 'roast' portion of the contest, mm?" Her grin is too obvious, even covered.

Merek looks thoughtful about it a little bit, "I'm Merek, I am able to do a lot of things," the man notes. Wow, amazing. He seems to smile while he thinks about it.

Katarina checked command + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 48 higher.

Yuri looked just a tad guilty as he found himself settling back into the sand as Medeia made to rise, settling alongside Jaenelle. He gave an apologetic look toward Medeia with a chuckle as she made to leave, "I am here now, aren't I?" He chuckled lightly before turning to Jaenelle with a gentle bow, "I can be here as long as I can be before business takes me."

Einarr is standing close to Lady Clarisse. He seems to be a bit overwhelmed, and has a grin upon his face.

Brigida checked command + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Duarte checked command + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 37 higher.

Medeia carefully shifts herself into a standing position while moving her cat into her arms. The feline is nearly half the size of the diminutive woman. "Archduchess, I am sure to fail at roasting anyone. I will do my best." As Clarisse approaches, she dips her chin to the Charon lady. "Lady Clarisse, hello. This is Archduchess Jaenelle Velenosa." To Yuri, she smiles, and gently nudges his foot with her own.

Medeia checked command + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 36 higher.

Cerys smiles gently sweet and charming standing with Knightly poise before the crowds. She lifts her glass of spirits and lets out a bit of rhyming poetry. "Hello to you one, hello to you all. I'm Cerys Velenosa rising for Gloria while enemies fall. Do you like my armor, it will put you in a trance. Best armor in Lyceum, most can't tell greaves from leather pants. But me? I'm pretty great. Best warrior princess to date. I stand up for the weak and throw down with my spear! Let me hear a cheer because you have nothing to fear!" She ends the impromptu show with a courtly bow and another smile.

There is a good chance most know who Jaenelle is. Except for the woman who approaches her. The Archduchess' smile brightens as she turns towards Clarisse and offers a gentle incline of her head. "it is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Clarisse Charon. I do not believe we have met yet, and everyone knows that strangers are just undiscovered friends." Truthfully, this doesnt seem to be an act and Jaenelle might actually go up to strangers all the time to meet them. She allows Medeia to make the more proper introductions with a name and all before she adds in a feigned whisper, "I am a pretty big deal." She is supposed to talk herself up after all! "I think the appropriate way to roast someone is to give them a complement but do so in a back handed way so they would be rude to take offense, but never quite sure if you were being sincere. 'You have a lovely hat, I believe I once saw the same one in the shops some five years ago. I am glad to see you you are aiding the shop keepers with cleaning out their old, unsold, stock so they might prepare for newer fashionable things. How generous!' See?"

Cerys checked command + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Duarte simply makes a silent motion toward his glorious mustache. Then bows.

Brigida stands from her seat and clears her throat, "They called me the Golden Rose of Tor with lovers across the land." She smirks at that before continuing, "I joined the Faith and now I am Blessed Brigida, the Iron Thorn of Arx, Horn of the Hunt... and Shinbane."

Clarisse offers a warm smile to Medeia and bows her head to the Lady respectfully. "It is a pleasure to see you again as well Lady Medeia. I am sorry it has not been sooner. Allow me to also introduce Sir Saito and Sir Einarr, warriors under Lord Teague Charon, my brother." She offers a graceful curtesey as she stands in front of the Princess. "Archduchess, A honor to meet you Your Highness." She smiles warmly at the charming words of Jaenelle, "There is no greater truth, "I am Lady Clarisse Charon, Healer of some talents, moved here from the country, Your Highness." She can not help but offer a light laugh at Jaenell's roast. "It is a brilliant Roast Your Highness."

Bianca drifted quietly away from the core of the festivities, her features displaying mirth in response to the ongoing Boast Battle and each entry received their own applause from the Legate. However, it had been quite the festival week and for now the scholarly woman retreated to find a seat still within earshot of the contests.

Svoli catches Bianca's greeting as she straightens from rubbing her shins, and offers her a crooked smile and a respectful bob of her head. "Same to you." She answers a little awkwardly, mumbling her way through it. Another sip of her ale is taken as she steps well back from the line up for those participating, just to make sure she isn't mistaken as one of them, and then chortling at Brigida's last.


Katarina takes her turn in the spotlight: "I am Princess Katarina Valardin, the House Valardin Minister of Population and Exploration Admiral, a Disciple of the Sentinel and leader of the Salon~. To become all of these things, I sailed across the ocean from the Dune Kingdoms of Eurus, where I was -- and, in all truth, remain -- Crown Princess of the Dune Kingdom of Suj'abbat, the City of Veils. I have been liar and leader, unknowing heretic and by choice faithful, but in truth, there is only one thing I wish to be..." The veiled, short young woman pauses for effect. "...and that is one day, many years from now, many, many, many years from now, I shall be as old as Archlector Brigida, an accomplishment of survival that will dwarf all of my feats and birthrights alike~." Katarina curtsies deeply and steps aside, having decided to get in a little warming-up on the roast front. She bounces her eyebrows in greeting to Duarte as she departs center stage.

Bianca has joined the Wooden Picnic Table.

Caprice has the dubious protection of her ledger to hide behind while the competitors make their introductions. Cerys's rhyming earns a smile, the others, sincerely interested study. She's learned a few new things, already! It's probably just coincidence that she snorts aloud after Duarte's contribution. Lots of food and sweet things around, probably just got a bug up her nose.

Brigida doesn't strike at Katarina, merely gives her a cold stare. "You think I am old?"


"One day you will be," Katarina replies to Brigida. "Many, many, many years from now~."

Einarrbows deeply to the ArchDutchess and holds his hand over his heart. "If a simple warrior may speak, may you be ever powerful and benolvent, ArchDutchess." He stays quiet with his head bowed.

Brigida checked command + intimidation at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Katarina checks composure and performance at daunting. Katarina marginally fails.


And yet, even after chirping her response, Katarina goes and stands... somewhat /behind/ Alantir.

Saito easilly moves with Clarisse. He offers a graceful bow to Medeia. "It is a pleasure to meet you, my lady," the knight's words are soft and polite, a genuine smile being offered to the noble. Another deep bow is offered to the archduchess, the young knight staying in a polite cilence.

It's time to boast! Medeia stands there, not entirely sure what to say. She's humble for a Lycene-born lady. So, she distracts herself by looking to Saito and Einarr first. "Harlequin Medeia Eswynd, lovely to meet you both." At that? She must speak. Her eyes scan the crowd, a slow smile curling her lips. "Once the 'Delight of Saik', now the 'Siren of Eswyndol' - I have caught three octopuses bare-handed, one just having completed my wedding vows as it tried to climb Blessed Avary. I've cured a previously incurable disease, brokered peace, and yelled so encouragingly that enemies fell and ships sank - while an arrowhead was stuck in my arm."


ROUND 2 ROASTS!

"Some high and mighty introductions! But oh, how the mighty can fall. Competitors! Choose one or all of of your opponents and bring them down a peg or two. There are no additional points for making anybody cry, mind you," Caprice warns, "and remember - this is all in fun." And the guards on hand are probably mostly too busy with keeping people from staggering out into the sea to prevent any thrown fists.

(oldcheck WITS + manipulation OR intimidation at 15! Think Dean Martin's celebrity roasts ("Lucille Ball has worked hard to get where she is today. She was a chorus girl at a nightclub on Hollywood Boulevard where every night she did the Dance of the Virgins... which she performed by memory.")


Katarina checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Jaenelle checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 41 higher.

Medeia checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

Cerys checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Brigida checked wits + intimidation at difficulty 15, rolling 41 higher.

Although Alantir does not immediately recognize the causation behind Katarina's unexpected retreat, he just happens to catch the tail-end of Brigida's stare. Fortunately, With visor down, his discomforted expression remains concealed. "Was that the woman you insulted?" he inquires, voice hushed -- as if concerned that the walking stick she carried could shatter his greaves.

Duarte checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

Alban, an enormous palomino destrier with massive feathered hooves have been dismissed.

Bird have been dismissed.

Duarte says, "I am a spring and you are an adhesive material of sorts. Whatsoever you speak shall recoil off me and on you sticketh."

Jaenelle was promised a few words on hair care by Katarina, so she pauses in chatting to the others to glance over towards Katarina with a slight grin. There is a moment as she considers what she might wish to say, shifting from one foot to the other in the sand before deciding, "I have a library named for me, and I am uncertain if I could ever invite any of you there. The books might be too large on subjects you might be unfamiliar with. This saddens me."


Katarina's confidence is shaken by having tempted fate and received, for her troubles, a death-stare from an Archlector. "I would never insult Archlector Brigida," Katarina says meekly, inching further behind Alantir. When it comes her turn to get up and roast, she clears her throat and... seems to have lost her train of thought before it even leaves the station. "...when I arrived in Sanctum, I spoke no Arvani, and it was fair to say that I would not have understood any of you. Through careful study and practice, I perfected my Arvani," even though she never lost her accent, "and now I can say with certainty: I understand you all far, far less than I ever thought possible~." Katarina pauses. Fidgets. Walks off stage to once more stand in Alantir's shadow, keeping an eye out for walking sticks in her vicinity.

Cerys looks around but seems unsure of who to challenge she considers a long moment biting her lower lip in thought.She is not overly fond of word battles and dissing. Boasting and toasting is good, roasting is hard! She struggles and really does not contribute much at all here...

With a look around the competitors, then a slight eyeroll, Medeia winks at Duarte, lifts one hand and gestures at the count's mustache. "It is a truly magnificent bit of facial hair, my lord, and I am certain you spend considerable time and resources maintaining it. Whenever you do finally marry, I hope your bride is fine with it being more spoiled than her."

Yuri quietly rose up from his place at the sands, giving a gentle clap toward the competitors before he meandered his way out from the crowd, taking his leave with little fanfare.

Clarisse can not help but grin at Medeia and smile at Duarte as Medeia roasts him, easily, and there may actually be a point. She does softly speak to the Princess though, out of curiosity, "Your Highness, do you truly have a library named for you? Would you allow others to enjoy your treasured tomes? I should love to see, if it something you would allow?" She lowers her head respectfully, before stepping back and falling quiet before she begins to ramble, assuming it doesn't seem that way already.

"I don't foresee any quarrels. It's only ever received gratitude," Duarte says with a slight bow to Medeia.

Bartolomeo, protege of Signora Lauretta Tessere leaves, following Yuri.

"I believe that is what all rulers wish to achieve, Sir Einarr" Jaenelle speaks to the man with a soft smile. "House Velenosa has always been knows for our generosity without being taken advantage or fooled because of it. Some see it as a weakness, but loyalty is tested in both times of wealth and in times of suffering. We give when we can to see our people flourishing so that they remember in times of hardships we are together within such." Despite her joking about the library, there is a light in her eyes as she nods towards Clarisse. "The Princess Jaenelle Velenosa library is the second largest library in the entire Compact, only smaller to the Great Archives themselves. It was something I worked hard for and something I will forever be proud of."

Brigida smiles as she listens, nodding her head once to Katarina's meek words before scoffing at Jaenelle's comment. "Oh my dear Archduchess Jaenelle. A library? Named for you? This makes no sense... Unless you handpicked all the tomes based on the pretty pictures." She gives Jaenelle a small wink at that.

Jaenelle checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 30, rolling 19 higher.

Katarina checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 30, rolling 1 higher.


ROUND 3: TOASTS!

"Remember to give thanks to the physicians on duty," Caprice calls to the crowd with a laugh. "Not only do they have some of the winning hangover cures on hand, they've brought along some burn salves for the victims of these roasts!

But, we're all friends here." Right? "Let's end on a high note, in praise and gratitude. Competitors, please share with us some nice words in closing for your fellow wits, and in honor of Lagoma, Petrichor and Magnata."


(oldcheck CHARM + diplomacy OR etiquette at 15! Simple or fancy as you like! ("Good food, good drink, thank the gods, it's time to eat! So let it be! -Bianca)


Duarte checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Brigida checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Merek checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Jaenelle checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Medeia checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Merek does toast to the gods, "Thank you, gods, for all you give us," the man notes. Simple, not as elegant as a lot of people, all the same.

Brigida checked wits + intimidation at difficulty 30, rolling 17 higher.

Cerys checked charm + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Cerys lifts her glass high with a warm sunny smile. "My favorite part!" She looks to the nearest burning fire with a smile and gestures with her hand towards it. "Lagoma! Our Lady Of Change, Bless this Season as it changes and thank you for blessing us with yet another season before it. As the wheel of time turns we honor you and the change you bring us each season. May our children grow wise and our lives prosper and change under your eyes Our Lady of Change." Gesturing to the sea she smiles warmly. "Mangata! Goddess of the seas. We thank you for the waters, the wines, the beverages and tonics that soothe and heal our throats. We thank you for the fish you bless us with from the seas and we pray for calm seas this season when we sail. May the tides be fair, the winds calm, and the waters always pure!" Looking to the wilderness she finishes with a final smile and words. "Petrichor Patron of Farmers, thank you for your blessing upon our harvest this season. Your eyes are upon our fields and farmers always. May our harvests and crops grow strong under your gaze and may we always reap the good that we sow in your name. In the name of the Pantheon I offer these prayers and a toast to all those here. You are all wonderful, bless you all. Amen!"

Katarina checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Medeia checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 0 higher.

Jaenelle checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 19 higher.

Jaenelle shifts her attention towards Brigida when she speaks, and the only notice of the amusement from the woman is still very much in her eyes and the barest hint of an upturn in the corners of her mouth. "Archlector you flatter me in thinking I had the ability to even pick the tomes myself! I just hired a lot of rather impressive people to do the lifting and choosing for me. Infact," again she lowers her voice, "I didnt even name the library myself, Eleyna did. I humbly accepted it. Very humble indeed" she then finally grins after. As the last part of the contest arrives, Jaenelle lifts her glass that has been proven to be unpoisoned by the lack of dead guards everywhere. "Be nice to yourselves. Remember to find balance. Remember not everyone can be helped all of the time, though it never hurts to do your best and help anyway. Your soul will thank you."

Merek checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Merek probably did a roast earlier as well, and sucked at it, he's quiet, and doesn't seem to be the kind of person who can insult someone if he tried.

As she considers what to say, Medeia scratches her cat's ears. It takes a moment, but words come to her. "To the competitors for keeping it classy," then a look to Duarte with a fond smile, "Except for you. And to my fellow physicians for keeping us all alive. To Lagoma for the changes that test us and make us stronger, Petrichor for the companionship and bounty of the lands, and Mangata for the very air that gives us life and bounty of the seas. We raise our glasses," she has no glass, "and drink to you."

"It has been some time since I've attended an event like this," Duarte says, holding glass near his chest. "I am distinctly privileged, I feel, to have the friendship of many here: Princess Katarina, Master Caprice, Lady Medeia, of course Mother Bianca." To each he lifts his glass. "And to all well met acquaintances this fine evening. To the ever effervescent Archduchess Jaenelle... Blessed are we to honor the Pantheon at these festivities. Our prayers with our warriors overseas. May all our paths be lighted by the Gods." He drinks.


Katarina gets a drink from somewhere. There are lots of drinks around, so it's not exactly an epic quest or anything. She lifts it toward Alantir. "I will keep my toast simple, my friends. Tonight I present to all of you my cousin, Prince Alantir Valardin. He is a noble knight, a valiant soldier, an honorable Oathlander. Since being adopted into House Valardin I have enjoyed many, many privileges, but the one that I cherish above all else is to be able to call men such as Prince Alantir my family. I encourage you all to seek him out -- he is a man of few words, but they are ever well-chosen. To the Oathlands, to Valardin, and to Prince Alantir -- and to family, wherever you may find it~."

Jaenelle is overheard praising Katarina: To the family which is found.

Bianca has left the Wooden Picnic Table.

Duarte is overheard praising Caprice: I wish I was her patron she is so fabulous!

Alantir is overheard praising Caprice.

Medeia is overheard praising Duarte: The count of magnificent mustaches.

Brigida inclines her head to Jaenelle's words before she raises her cup. "I had prepared a longer prayer but seeing as though others have already done that I shall say this. Honour the Gods, Honour your Fellows. Keep your nonsense inside your head! Let's all drink."

Clarisse bows her head apologetically at Jaenelle, "My deepest apologies Your Highness, but it seems I must be going, I do wish you and everyone, the best of evenings. It has been a delight to meet you." She does smile to Saito and Einarr thoug, "Feel free to stay this evening, I will be fine making my way home Sir Saito and Sir Einarr." She makes a graceful courtsey before she is making her way out

Medeia is overheard praising Caprice.

Katarina is overheard praising Caprice.

Katarina is overheard praising Jaenelle.

Katarina is overheard praising Brigida.

Katarina is overheard praising Medeia.

Katarina is overheard praising Alantir.

Merek is overheard praising Caprice.

Merek is overheard praising Jaenelle.

Merek is overheard praising Brigida.

Merek is overheard praising Medeia.

Merek is overheard praising Alantir.


Raising her flagon for the round of toasts, Caprice's smile lingers - widens with every new offer of praise and thanks and advice. She nods agreeably once or twice, and when all is said and done, offers her own toast.

"Thank you for inspiring us, competitors - and possibly terrifying us just a little bit at the displays of your social prowess. It's been my honor to lead this game.

Thank you to the audience for bearing witness; please take all these kind words to heart, and may they keep you warm as the weather will refuse to do for some time. Please, give our competitors a round of applause!"

She's discreetly handed a piece of paper, which she reads over during said applause.

"I'm further honored to announce the winners of our competition, as decided by a panel of judges out there amongst you in the crowd:

Princess Katarina Valardin has proven herself a most becoming boaster!

Archduchess Jaenelle cuts as beautifully as she soothes, and sweeps both the Roasts and Toasts rounds!

Congratulations to our winners, and thank you again, everyone, for joining us! Please, enjoy the rest of this last Day of Libation!


Clarisse is overheard praising Medeia: A great evening of roasting boasting and toasting for all those who attended.

Clarisse is overheard praising Jaenelle: A great evening of roasting boasting and toasting for all those who attended.

Clarisse is overheard praising Duarte: A great evening of roasting boasting and toasting for all those who attended.

Clarisse is overheard praising Caprice: A great evening of roasting boasting and toasting for all those who attended.

There are, of course, trophies! Nearly identical ceramic cornucopias are trotted out and delivered to Katarina and Jaenelle with all the flair and respect their titles, and their wins, deserve. Caprice cheers along with the crowd!

"It was lovely meeting you, Lady Clarisse. I truly did enjoy our meeting and would love to do so again when we do not have to worry of slipping sands to swallow us forever" Jaenelle tells the woman with a warm smile. "Be well on your return." Her attention is pulled towards Caprice, and there is a gentle laugh at the announcement. "I am honored Caprice, thank you so much for holding this, I have enjoyed it a great deal and it was nice to forget work for a moment to simply be in the moment with such company."

Einarr shakes his head to he Lady and bows to all. "Many thanks for this wonderful evening. I shall be happy to participate upone the next time this group may yet be joined." He turns and walks to stand before Lady Clarisse.

Medeia is overheard praising Katarina.

Medeia is overheard praising Jaenelle.


Katarina, before accepting the cornucopia, turns toward Jaenelle and lowers herself in a deep curtsy. "Congratulations, Your Grace. A victory well-earned~." She accepts her prize then, and says: "And red would suit you marvelously~."

Brigida mutters something about finding those 'judges' and having words with them as she heads bback to her chair.

"It's my distinct pleasure," Caprice assures Jaenelle warmly, amidst applauding the competitors at large. "Thank you for joining in!"

The knight smiles, though makes no audible response to Katarina's praises. Without a goblet or flask, he is unable to toast -- but this does not stop him from raising his gauntlet as if one were present. "Congratulations to all involved," he offers, "and well played. Your wordplay certainly puts the rest of us to shame." Sincerity is evident in tone.

Brigida is overheard praising Caprice: Doing the work so I don't have to.