Valerion spots Ophelia coming up and gives her a smile, just for her. He walks closer to her and eyes her horse with a bit of a humorous expression. "Good to see you here little huntress."

Silas gets A Lenosian Strawberry Wine In A Black Bottle from a pink gift bag.

Mira doesn't have a horse, or a cart, or guards, or attendants. She arrives alone, looking a little under the weather, wearing a loose, billowy sundress that hangs over her more like an elegant bag that the fox-haired lawyer just decided to wear, rather than something fitted to her figure. Clasping her hands together, she waits patiently in line at the raffle counter, waiting to purchase some tickets, with the breeze rustling her red, arched bangs over her glasses.

Silas gets Blush, a sweet and darling perfume from a pink gift bag.

Kahlana ie there as she wanders into the place, she looks to Aiden, "I will buy a Bronze Sponser since I do not have a bird yet." she tells him, then I have a few more for tickets if you would allow."

Silas gets a cherry red lipstick contained within a gold tube from a pink gift bag.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon leaves, following Marian.

Ophelia says, "Hello, my lovely twilight drake." as she gets an adorable basketful of flowers from Silas that she blows a kiss to in thanks. She picks one of the flowers out of the basket, setting it to rest behind her ear. She puts a touch of her cheek to Valerion's before she stands next to him. "I'm looking forward to seeing this place revitalized and more people here enjoying it. How easy it'll be to shoot birds when they're in cages."

1 Saik Guard, Bodyguard, A Cat arrive, following Karadoc.

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

Sparte is present sans his guardsman armor and swords, looking very much the average commoner. He has a red bandana on to keep his hair relatively contained. He has a few raffle tickets tucked into his belt, and seems to just be happy to be around to support the event.

Larissa stands next to Aiden as people begin wandering in for the event. Every guest is greeted with a smile as she guides people to Aiden for raffle tickets and answers what questions people may have before the event begins in full.

Prince Aiden Grayson approaches the wooden models of the Menagerie, hand crafted by the looks of it to represent the present state of the zoo gardens and the proposal for the future build sites. The young man adjusts his tunic with a nervous tug at the sides, gaining a breath as gray eyes scan outward toward the gathered group. He clears his throat.

"Welcome to your Menagerie. For those of you I haven't met, I'm Prince Aiden Grayson and currently the Officiator of the Menagerie, a role I've taken with great pride and enthusiasm. I'm pleased to be your host for the evening and happy to see you all here, for it means that the Menagerie is as important to you as it is to me."

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon arrives, following Marian.

Malesh arrives alone, trying to be as un-attention-getting as he can at his height. It's not easy. Still, he is a reserved fellow and does what he can to just fit in and attend things and lend his charit where he can.

Ezekiel the German Shepherd arrives, following Artorius.

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

Unmasked and without her heavy entourage of guards, Princess Isolde makes her way into the fundraiser. She arrives in time to see the opening speech and tries to give Prince Aiden a reassuring smile. When it's over, the princess gives a polite little clap.

Gareth slowly through the gates of the Menagerie, each movement stiff and diliberate. He completely ignores the line for the raffle, prefering instead to start people watch. Cold blue-violet eyes roam over the faces of those who are already here. His attention snaps to Aiden as speaks. Silently, he begins to walk in his cousin's direction.

Karadoc arrived just as things were getting going, Artorius quick on his heels. Doc was in his usual greens and whites, hair all a mess. Tonight, Arcelia was linked arm in arm with him, as he looked around. "A good number of people about tonight..."

Receiving her raffle tickets, Mira turns at the announcement, turning her deep blue eyes up to Aiden from where she's standing in the crowd. The wind blows her pure white dress off to the side, pressing it up against her side and revealing hints of the hourglass figure underneath, otherwise obscured by the oversized garment. She is not her usual, animated self, instead looking fairly somber and reserved. Maybe ill?

Arcelia shows up wearing a simple brown dress with tan embroidery on the sleeves. She makes her way in on Karadoc's arm looking happy to be there. She attempts to catch Aiden's attention to offer him a smile and a nod of her head. She nods her head after to Karadoc. "Yes, Prince Aiden has had quite a turn out. I am happy he was able to get so much support."

Silas is near the entrance, handing out whatever he produces when he rummages around in the pink gift bag as the patrons arrive, along with a paper ticket for the raffle. He does his best not to look intimidating as a tall man in a set of gleaming rubicund armor, who looks a -little- out of place here. He peers into the bag and frowns when they run out, shrugging helplessly.

Artorius arrived with Serah on his shoulders. Eirene had talked him into taking her with him. She tried to reach out for everything as he himself looked about and whistles "talk about a good turnout. This should be fun." he chuckles.

Marian arrives at the event, bringing her gyrfalcon, Ender, on her shoulder. She hovers on the edges as Prince Aiden makes his speech. She arrived just as he was wrapping it up. She makes sure to stop by the table and purchase a few raffle tickets and then moves over to find out what sponsorship opportunities are available for this worthy cause.

In black silk cut in the Setarco fashion, but very simply, Lady Vanora Pravus slowly enters the area for the fundraiser, curious about the event itself and its attendance, and always interested in entertainment. She places herself somewhere unobtrusive to observe.

Aiden Continues: "For a little background on why this project and why now, I'll say this, it has been a goal of mine since I arrived in Arx to see that the Menagerie received more attention than it has in the past. Recent events of the siege has brought to light the aging facility. The loss of animal handlers during the conflict have left stray and unwanted animals in our numbers, which sadly, a bare minimum could be saved - something I'm hoping to change with the improvements. There was also an effort to rescue wild animals from the Gray Forest, which were in turn brought here and have thus added to the demands of the Menagerie, we must expand to accommodate."

"While it is true that there are many great humanitarian causes to aid in the aftermath of the siege, and I urge you to do so if you can, these creatures are as much part of our city as we are and it is our responsibility to see to their welfare.I hope that by being here you're willing to support the efforts to transform this area into a lush venue in which can support healthy animals and that people can enjoy for generations to come."

Karadoc looked over the raffles, and the sponsorships. "Hmm... Perhaps House Saik could help sponsor an exhibit..." He mused, speaking idly to Arcelia as he did. He looked over the crowd, and gave a smile and a small nod to those he was familiar with.

Petal arrives while adorned in a white linen dress with a blue apron. She has a wolf pup close to her legs and a wicker sewing basket with her.

Ophelia hands a writ of economic assistance to one of Aiden's helpers, getting a pile of tickets in return! She waves over to Artorius as she stands by Valerion. "I bet you that my number will be called before yours. What's your wager?"

Arcelia nods to Karadoc and enters the raffle. "I will do some as well." She was offering her personal support and agreeing that Saik should support this as well.

Kahlana also hands over a pile of Writs but she dose not get tickets, instead she makes a grab at one of the sponsor levels.

Karadoc smiled and nodded, "Good." He made his way over to Aiden, pulling a peice of paper with his offer of sponsorship.

Gaius, a Thraxian Confessor, Balanar, a shadowy Confessor arrive, following Alistair.

Not long after the entrance of Vanora comes another Pravus Lady, specifically the figure of Lady Juliana Pravus, who appears to know how to make an entrance. Fashionable late? Check. Decked out in the most eyecatching couture possible? Double check. Her gold and wheat locks are swept up and back, twisted with ropes of pearl and accented with vividly painted feathers. Her gown is a bold design meant to catch and hold attention. She is all smiles, bright blue eyes taking it all in as she looks side to side. Feathered earrings brush her bare shoulders before she decides on a direction, stepping into the crowd to observer those speaking.

Artorius shrugs a little and enters the raffle. handing over some economic writs to get things underway!

Mira nods along with the announcement, but her expression does not change. She seems to be deep in thought, perhaps melancholy. Inobtrustively, she runs a hand along her side, self-consciously, as the oversized dress billows about her in the breeze. Her wild red hair also flutters and lifts a bit, forcing the lawyer girl to tuck some behind her ear, out of her eyes.

Aiden STILL continues: "The funds that are raised here tonight and throughout the project will be spent on increased utilization of  the space that has been granted to the Menagerie. Intended infrastructure projects are larger enclosures for the predatorial animals that they may roam as they need to, a distinct and separate wide area for the ungulates (hoofed animals),  a proper aviary, and reptile house, as well as a butterfly garden. There is also a plan for a park in which handlers can bring their animal companions for gatherings and which will support housing abandoned, surrendered, or lost animal companions. Lastly, at this time, an amphitheater for training and educational demonstrations as well as supporting a variety of public gatherings. There are future intentions once the other projects are completed to expand with a barn area for agricultural animals, a museum for further educational purposes, and an official center for animal adoptions and rehabilitation. Of course at this point, I am open for suggestions as nothing is set in stone until the stones are placed. You're wlecomed to speak with me this evening or at a later time."

Valerion laughs as he looks down to the gorgeous princess by his side, extending his arm for her to take. "I would wager a thousand silver." He winks at her and steps a bit closer to her.

Tikva drifts quietly among those present in a flair of brown skirts, holding tight to the raffle tickets she has purchased. She has a balalaika slung across her back where ordinarily her bow and quiver might be. Maybe she thought the animals would be afraid of her hunter's mien.

Isolde catches sight of Vanora and makes her way over to the lady, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She settles in near by, also happy to be unobtrusive.

Gareth finally reaches the front of the crowd, his attention, for the most part, remaining on Aiden as he is giving his speech. Planting his swordstick firmly into the ground in front of him, he grips the head with both hands and leans onto it.

Karadoc bought a sponsorship, and a few raffle tickets. He gave Arcelia's arm a pat, as he went to go mingle with the people.

Most of the time, Asher doesn't /do/ things like this. Big galas or fundraisers or what have you. But frankly, he's heard of the Menagerie far too often to stay away. And it's close to the Emporium, so why not drop by and check it out? But once inside, he's quite amazed, and looks about to see if he knows anyone. There's murmur of a raffle going about, and without knowing what's up for grabs, he decides it's a worthy cause all the same once he spots the little model menagerie for the future. There does need to be a place like this here in the city. He searches his pockets for his writs, where he's got them stowed away, and finds them. A good handful - sure, he counts them out, just to see how much he's giving - goes towards the raffle, handed to one of the helpers. No need to bother Aiden personally with this. And, interestingly, he spots only two faces he knows, so he drifts over to the one he's seen less of. "Lady Arcelia Saik," he says as he approaches, waving and chuckling. "Finally got out of the Tower, aye?"

Justice, an elegant hunting falcon arrives, delivering a message to Aiden before departing.

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

Alistair arrives with a duo of Confessor goons in tow. His eyes sweep upon the gathered peoples of Arx as they come together for a project to bring a taste of nature to the Compact. His flat features give no hint as to what the Prodigal thinks of this endeavor. But as money is flowing... the Inquisition will be present in their own ways.

Artorius smiles to Serah and looks at his raffle ticket "Having fun sweetheart?" he asked, to which she nodded, just beaming!

Marian looks at the turn out, smiles as she politely listens to Prince Aiden as she stands by where they're displaying the sponsorships. She gives a nod to Prince Valerion, the Lord Commander Silas and other faces that she recognizes in the crowd.

Carita arrives, following Edward.

Silas stands aside when his role is concluded, so he may get a better view of Aiden and what is happening. A friendly smile is sent in Marian's direction, along with a nod. He still remains close to the entrance, for whatever reason.

Aiden Continues further! Omg, will this never end? "For tonight, what is needed most are funds to start the renovations (econ res). I have incentives for sponsors to donate, such as leaving your lasting mark on the Menagerie, with the sponsorship program. If you are interested please have a look," he extends his hand toward the copies of the sponsorship book being passed around. "We also have several raffle draws available tonight in effort to raise resources for this undertaking, as well as a live auction for a set of beautifully crafted dragon armor, donated by Princess Marian Valardin."

"At this time,  I'd like to give thanks to the many people who have already donated raffle prizes for this fundraiser. Some of those names are, Mistress Mirari, Mistress Petal, Mistress Malena Black, Malik Whisper, Larissa Whisper, Dame Sameera Coldrain, Lord Estaban Saik, Baron Silas Whitehawk, Princess Reese Grayson and Princess Marian Valardin." He helped the applause along by starting it.

    Ophelia claps politely when Aiden begins listing off those who donated the raffle prizes. "These are going to be excellent, I can't wait to see what people win and who leave winners. Have you taken a look over the sponsorships? I want the Golden one." she says to Valerion.

With Vanora slipping away, Isolde sighs and begins to wander through the crowd. A delicate eyebrow is raised when she spots Alistair and his "associates". The Princess makes her way over to them as she listens to the speech.

Mira drifts toward the announcement platform, listening along quietly, without a lot of movement. Her hands are clasped before her below the waist, and she's not wearing any jewelery. As Aiden's speech winds down, Mira offers some light applause, still looking somber, not even smiling.

Marian gives a bow when Aiden calls out that she donated the suit of armor that will be auctioned later. Once the speech is over she walks over to her cousin, Valerion, and nods to Ophelia as she approaches, "Cousin! I see you've decided to attend. Have you bought your raffle tickets?"

Valerion looked around the Menagerie and was surprised to see faces he recognized. The young dragon waved to Silas and began walking toward's Marian. Leaning down he whispers a few words to Ophelia before offering her a little smirk. "Marian, it is good to see you here." He gestures over to the Princess Ophelia with a smile on his lips, usually something reserved for smaller company. Today he must have been in a good mood, but truthfully he was always in a good mood when he was with the little huntress. Looking over the sponsorships he nods,"I would agree that the gold one seems right up your alley Ophelia." His eyes seemed to regard her affectionately.

Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent arrives, delivering a message to Isolde before departing.

Aiden then looks to the audience, "And without further adieu, we're giving away the first door prize!" He looks over toward Silas, who he has somehow wrangled into the business of volunteering for the event.

Tikva cheers and applauds with bright energy for this, and then sidesteps to mutter something to a messenger and hand off a scroll quietly.

Petal stands close to Joslyn and is murmuring softly to her. She seems rather shy about being in such a large ground.

Arriving a little late, Edward arrives with the lovely Carita on his arm. Entering into The Managerie he smiles and motions out some of the changes to the lady that he escorts as they talk quietly to one another. Edward himself is wearing a pair of silk breeches with his sturdy boots and a thraxian fashion high collar doublet in a royal blue with green piping.

Artorius pats Arcelia on the shoulder lightly and gives her a kind wave. "Hello M'lady. Long time no see! How are you?" Serah beams at Arcelia when she sees her "H-hello miss!" she looks her up and down possibly judghingly, but it seems VERY positive. Artorius smiles to Arcelia warmly, looking happy to see his friend again.

Julianawatches Aiden speak, a smile curving her lips. She is still taking it all in, but her attention returns to the Prince, as he is the one speaking. She applauds as the others do, and she begins to move through the crowd, a casual eye taking in the people around.

Alistair turns to regard the Velenosa Princess as she approaches, the towering Prodigal man staring at her for a moment before he bows his head in proper recognition to her station. "Princess." He remarks in a flat tone as he once more glances to those present as Aiden finishes his introduction.

Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent arrives, delivering a message to Isolde before departing.

Carita enters with Edward, as she is led by the arm. She speaks to him quietly, making comments to him as he points out various things. She nods, brushes her hair from her shoulder and smiles slightly.

Sparte starts helping himself to some of the nibbles and snacks laid out for the event. Best time to eat, while everyone is staring at someone else.

Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent arrives, delivering a message to Isolde before departing.

    Ophelia looks pretty interested in seeing who will win the first prize. "I don't know about you, but I think Baron Whitehawk giving the prizes is a bit like icing on the cake! Ohh, Aiden is going to draw the first one, good luck!" before she takes a look at her tickets to check.

Larissa wanders through the crowd with a smile, pausing here and there to offer a quiet word and a warm greeting to those she knew and especially to those she doesn't, taking the opportunity to introduce herself and the Whisper House for those who were unfamiliar. She never strayed far from Aiden's side in case there was a need for her help.

Arcelia stands there with Karadoc and quietly listens.

Kahlana watches the event, and then the doorprises she smiles as she looks to her number and she shakos her head a bit. She smiles a little as she claps her hands along with the others, her hands coming together fully. Her green eyes catch Edward and she offers him a small smile before she looks back over to Aiden.

Isolde can't help but give Alistair a smile. "Inquisitor." She says quietly, not wanting to disrupt the speech. "Are you here to sponser an exhibit? Or question poor Prince Aiden?"

Malesh continues to stand tall but silent amongst the gathered crowd. He claps when appropriate of course, it is a worthy cause, but he is otherwise rather still and silent. Preoccupied with something perhaps, or merely a good audience member.

Ophelia is overheard praising Aiden for: Who gives a hoot about birds and animals? Prince Aiden, that's who!

Aiden looks a little flustered with something regarding the door prizes, though he smiles to the crowd regardless. "We'll get back to the door prizes in a moment! For now, we have entertainment from the Whisper House, hosted by Larissa Whisper!"

Asher looks as though he'd like to chat with Arcelia at length but... She's beset by both focus on the raffle, and other friends. He gives a gesture of 'talk to you later' and coughs to himself. The Grayhope man is obviously completely out of his element. Time to move over towards the other person he knows, and finds himself standing by Mira. "Why so glum? Today looks like a good day, people are smiling... Oh, and we're not threatened with death by an evil demon worshipper."

Mira is overheard praising Aiden for: If we don't care about our world, who will?

Silas checked dexterity + all at difficulty 9, rolling 8 higher.

Joslyn stands close beside Petal, smiling to her as she whispers, seemingly ignoring most of the crowd around her. She spreads her arms, offering the seamstress a hug, even as she speaks quietly with them.

Valerion can't help the little smile that touches his lips when he sees how excited Ophelia is. He nods over to Marian,"You have met the Sword of Sanctum have you not your highness?" He gestures to Marian again with a bit of a smirk,"Surely you have met Princess Ophelia?" Though he was trying to give introductions he was distracted by the events and all the people. He was happy to hear people praising him, though he did give a bow of his head to the Princess Isolde and her companion, a man he did not recognize.

Sparte is overheard praising Aiden for: A worthy cause. Probably. Anyway, worthy intent.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Silas.

Valerion is overheard praising Aiden for: For a wonderful event!!

Asher is overheard praising Aiden for: Well-put together fundraiser! Also is that one of the rings I made in the purple basket...? Good taste!

Mira looks up and over at Asher slowly, showing him a faint but sincere smile. "I'm not glum. Just light-headed. It's been a rough day." Her dress is not flattering in the slightest, just a plain white, and not tailored to her at all. But her deep blue eyes glitter brightly, all the same, despite her muted appearance.

Larissa :steps forward once Aiden has finished speaking, a bright smile resplendent upon her face as turns to their host and offers him an applause "I cannot wait to see all the positive changes that Prince Aiden will bring to the menagerie! For tonight's entertainment I thought it would be appropriate to showcase what we already have, as it is but a glimpse but what it can be and I know that tonight begins the first phase of change. I hope you enjoy what the Whisper House has put together for you and bid you to sit back and enjoy the show."

Marian is overheard praising Aiden for: Aiden has done a wonderful job of putting together this fundraiser. I absolutely love the work that went into the raffle baskets.


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Amidst the burgeoning sunset blossoming across the indigo evening, like a backdrop painted behind them, arose the lone cry of a flute. A solitary sound that seemed to live upon the wind, that brushed against the cheeks of the people in the crowd, that grabbed unfettered strands of hair and lifted them in a breeze. For a moment it was a lonely sound and trembling... until moments later it was joined and met by the song of a violin quivering, and then another - two birds winding upwards to the heavens before the crash of snare drums brought them down and erupted a symphony. One by one by one by one Whispers melted out of the crowd like the first drops of rain to hit upon the window pain and drift down and down and down... each dressed in silver grey silk that moved across their bodies like water, loose and fluid and each carrying an instrument as they came together at the cusp of the crowd and played a music that was all at once beautiful and upbeat like the sound of hope or the break of dawn.
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Edward moves his escorted Lady off to the side so they have a view of Aiden and the goings on. He takes his time to look around at the various faces present, giving a smile or nod to those he knows; Petal and Kahlana. He tilts his head to continue to speak softly to Carita occasionally while the events get under way.

Oh, that music is beautiful. Sparte looks on and listens in wonder. Just, not so much wonder that he forgets to reach for more food from the snacks table.

Artorius smiles at the show, hoisting Serah on his shoulders so she could see. The little girl claps at the show already, looking VERY amused. Artorius smiles, after all, she's the reason why he came! That, and Karadoc asked him nicely.

"Is there a reason I should question Prince Aiden?" The Inquisitor ponders at Isolde's question, the man turning his gaze upon the host of the little event. For a moment he stares at the host, as if looking for any obvious reasons that he might need to be dragged off to the Panopticon for questioning. When that reason is not seen he turns back to regard Isolde. "I am not here to sponsor an exhibit. Simply make sure there are no issues. And yourself? Some exotic fare from Lyceum to be put in the Menagerie?"

Julianais passing near Mira as she speaks and Juliana's attention falls on the redhead, "Oh, do forgive my interruption, but my dear, you are far too pretty to be languishing in such drabness." There is nothing mean or malicious in Juliana's one or expression, if anything there is a desire to assist in some fashion. Literally, helping withthe woman's fashion. There is a smile offered to Mira when she says, "I am Lady Juliana Pravus, and I would love to take you shopping."

Gareth steps forward to approach Aiden and hands his cousin a slip of paper and murmurs something to him, takes a step back, nods, then turns and heads into the crowd once again, but not before sparing a glance towards Larissa.

Aiden moves off to the side once Larissa takes over, going toward the Raffle table to help with tickets and questions about sponsorship. He does side glance toward the entertainment, but the Prince seems to be having to deal with the other momentary things, like a crisis with the door prizes. These things happen!


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As the symphony played, trills of sound that dipped and dove and curled past the crowd and into the quiet evening - sound bursting from the entirety of the menagerie - a flash of orange was seen behind the musicians. Two more Whispers emerged as though from the earth itself, their silken costumes the bright punch of the sun extending it's first new rays of light from beneath the retreating storm. They danced opposite and in tandem, each stroke of body matched, each swirl of silk mirrored until facing each other several feet apart, they stood still... Only for two more dancers to erupt - hidden in the crowd and two more and two more, each pair appearing as though by magic and ending their dance facing each other until eventually the crowd was circled by a path of whispers leading up to a small dais - and as the very last pair emerged, they did not dance but walked instead and passed out rich, thick garlands of flowers that were hoisted and held overhead in a trellis of blossoms above the path.
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Aiden looks up at Gareth as the man comes forward, taking his hand and shaking it, keeping his voice lowered as he responds in kind not to distract the performance.

Karadoc watched the show as it developed, raising a brow, curious as he took it all in.

Asher hmms a bit, and reaches over to gently rub Mira's back. She seems like she needs it. When Juliana passes by, Asher chuckles. "Oh, I would love to do the same for her Lady Pravus, but she's always busy! But if you both have time, go ahead. I'll just continue buying her other things." He's got a chuckle to his voice, and looks back to Mira. "I also have something to show you when you have time. Something I think you'll be interested in."

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Suddenly a sound was blasted through the crowd, a trumpet cried! Though this did not belong to the symphony... another mighty blow sounded until winding through the path with heavy steps emerged an elephant. The beast was wrung with flowers, his trunk waiving in the air as he picked at the blossoms and carried them to his mouth. Slowly he was paraded through the crowd, following the path of whispers laid out before him. He was lead by a handler, dressed as the Whispers were though in silk of midnight blue and now and again he would stop to raise his trunk and trumpet proudly as though he seemed to know that all eyes fell to him and he would not leave them disappointed. He came to the dais and stepped up as his weight caused it to creak and groan - a mighty and glorious beast! Then as though to show the world the many clever things he knew, he dipped down his trunk - letting it fall to a hidden bucket - so that when he raised it again it was to spray a jet of water towards the newly setting sun until all of the dais was filled with falling rainbows, falling in a shower of droplets around them. The elephant awaited his applause before he moved from the dais and was lead once more through the crowd.
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Mira blinks at Juliana, surprised and a little startled, due in no small part to the sudden appearance of Whispers everywhere, bearing devices. But as the symphony rises, Mira turns and curtseys very lightly. "Thank you, but I am wearing this by doctor's orders. Nothing tight or restricting." She smiles a little, straightening up, "But thank you very much. I would be interested. Money is a little tight now. There is a lot less money in lawyering than you'd think, if you don't take bribes." At Aiden's touch, however, Mira moves quite quickly aside, giving him a look. Did she wince? Maybe. But she smiles a little afterward.

"It was a joke." Isolde covers her mouth to muffle a laugh. Her brown eyes follow Alistair's gaze over to the host. She clasps her hands behind her back as she ponders what to sponsor. "Nothing too exotic. Just foxes. In my mother and sister's names." Once Prince Aiden leaves the stage and the whispers began to replace him, Isolde gestures for Alistair to accompany her. The princess makes her way up to the fundraiser's royal host. "Prince Aiden. If you have time, I'd like to arrange a sponsership."

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Silas.

Marian stands there by Valerion and closes her eyes when the music starts so she can filter out the noise of the crowd and focus on the beautiful rite to Jayus. But the sound of the dancers' feet upon the stage causes her to open. The explosion of color, the beauty of the Whispers leave her in silent awe. She lightly puts her hand over her chest.

Cristoph has /absolutely/ been here this entire time! And anyone who says otherwise is a dirty liar or confused. He drifts through the different crowds, dressed nicely but simply and without attracting a great deal of attention towards himself. He nods his head politely to those that he knows but seems a little at a loss. He's glancing through the throngs of people, evidentally searching for someone in particular but not finding them.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Silas.

Aiden looks toward the Elephant, momentarily distracted by it, watching with awe! That's how Isolde finds him, having to shake off the awestruck gaze to appreciate the attention before him, "Why indeed, what level were you looking at helping with?"

Alistair's attention is drawn away from any possible questioning to the elephant that trumpets and is paraded through the festive atmosphere. The once wild barbarian stares at the massive creatrue, watching as it lumbers about before he slowly follows Isolde to Aiden. Alistair turns to once more regard Isolde and the host. "Foxes? Hm hm." he says with a glance to Isolde.

Juliana flaps a hand at Mira's talk of money, "Clothes are so much more important than money. If I were to take you shopping I would take you shopping. You have the most lovely skin." Juliana's head tilt to one side, "Doctor's orders? The beast. Doesn't he know that looking your best increases your health? It's so true. I heard it from a wiseman in the north." Juliana nods as if agreeing with her own words. She looks Mira over again and nods once more. "You need something.... feathery. Do you like my earrings?" She motions to the long, feathered earrings that brush her shoulders.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Silas.

Artorius whistles! he hasn't seen an elephant in a VERY long time! Serah looked on with awe as the large beast performed, cheering when it finished loudly. Artorius chuckled, swaying a little with the music and for his daughter's pleasure.

Jael strides into the Plaza like a lady on a mission, peering through the crowd and occasionally popping up on tiptoe to look over the head of taller people...fortunately she's got enough height to get a reasonable view. "HAs anyone seen my brother? He was supposed to /wait/ for me and oooooh." The flower elephant brings her up short and she gazes at it raptly.

Karadoc clapped, and chuckled at the performance, giving a small nod. "Hmm..." He listened to the others, shaking his head a bit, "That was very good...."

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One by one in procession the animals of the menagerie were paraded through the crowd. There were not so many, but what they had was magnificent for this was the menagerie of Arx and nothing in their city was done in half measure. A lion prowled the crowd with his deep and terrible ROAR - flowers woven into his mane to make him seem tame but that amber wilderness was never absent from his eyes. A lanky giraffe skittered through the canopy of flowers, pausing to stretch out her strange elongated tongue to distract herself with the flowers over head. She was impossibly tall and lanky and like all the animals before her she was decorated in a myriad of flowers. A tiger came next and on the parade flowed through the crowd - each beasty reaching the dais to show it's own unique and dazzling beauty until it was lead away. But not all of the creatures were so large and lumber some - a few were small or lazy. At once, there was a sloth wrapped around a long thick branch hoisted between two handlers - and afterwards a Quokka, small and furry bounced through the path, held by a leash roped in garland and grunting at the crowd and as he passed through the many gathered guests, they were invited and encouraged to pet him as he was tame as any companion or retainer might be and in fact as he was lead off the dais the leash was taken from him so he might wander the crowd freely for the rest of the evening.
*************************************************************************************************

Gareth's attention is caught by Isolde and Alistair and he pauses and turns to move towards them... even if this new path is taking him back towards where he came from. Oh well, at least he can keep an eye out on all this elegant entertainment that seems to be going on. The elephant earns a hard stare. "Alistair." He greets the other inquisitor, leaving Isolde to speak with Aiden.

Mira ohs, ducking her head a bit at Juliana's suggestion. "Well, I've always been partial to fox--" Then there's an ELEPHANT here, and Mira shrieks, hopping aside and looking momentarily panicked, eyes wide. "What is THAT?!" Her jaw hanging open, Mira looks terrified for a moment...at least until she notices that no one else is running away from the thing. Then there's a Lion and Mira yelps, moving aside, then a Tiger the other way! The fox-haired woman looks *very* pale. Almost ashen.

Valerion was entranced by the beauty of the event and all the exotic animals. He watched Marian with a bit of a smile on his face during the rite to Jayus. Though when the dancers on the stage were performing he seemed to be captivated by it. Valerion was a patron of the arts and clapped softly when they finished. He taps Ophelia's arm and walks with her, gesturing for Marian to follow them as they moved towards Aiden. Waving over to his favorite Grayson cousin. "Aiden! This is amazing. You really....wow." He smiles widely to him as his eyes take in the dazzling procession.

Asher looks surprised at Mira, blinking a bit. The music and animals get his attention for a small moment, but he's quickly back to Mira, concerned. "...Sorry. Looks like... I've missed something. I think we should talk about that, too. But later." He's quite worried, but he stands there, not leaving, because that would be rude. Instead, he's examining Juliana's feather earrings. "Fashionable, I like them. But what are they made of? I'm always looking for ideas on what to make next."

Isolde gives Aiden a respectful bow of her head. "Both the Golden Eagle Sponsorship and the Diamond Hawk Sponsorship." Her gaze is momentarily drawn back towards the elephant. "I'd like to buy the Golden Eagle Sponsorship in Charlotta Velenosa's name. And the Hawk is Esera's." There is no mention of her own name. Isolde simply wishes to honor the dead. Glancing back at Alistiar, she nods. "Foxes. The symbol of my house."

Malesh has nothing to fear, it seems, if he wishes to remain incognito. Tall as he may be he certainly can't compete with a creature so massive as an elephant! And there's Lions, and tigers, and B- cute little animals as well!

Edward smiles as the animals are paraded through and his escort steps from him. He tucks his hands behind his back and hides a grimace of pain in doing so. He shifts on his feet and then he looks towards Prince Aiden, hoping to catch his attention to at least give him a smile, then he focuses on the animals. Which brings him to looking at the large cats and giving him a moment to step back showing a bit of sudden surprise, "Big kitties...,"

*************************************************************************************************
As the parade ended and the animals dispersed to their separate environments, the path of whispers began to break free ... Once more they broke off into pairs, two by two by two by two though this time they would pass out bouquets and garlands of flowers to everyone in the crowd, their dance spiraling in and out of everyone gathered - missing no one until they melted away themselves leaving only the musicians playing softly to the side. In their wake torches and lanterns had been lit so that the entirety of the menagerie glowed in the late evening. The dancing Whispers were replaced a third group of courtesans, their attire a deep violet as they attended the crowd with trays of champagne and fruit and charming wit throughout the rest of the evening.
**************************************************************************************************

Karadoc eyed the Lion as it came bye, catching it's eye, and giving a little nod, as if an old friend. The other animals he mostly just looked over idly.

Marian loves the parade of animals moving about the guests, her imagination captured by some of the more exotic species like the lion and the tiger. She resists the urge to reach out and touch them. When Valerion heads over to the table, she follows quietly, giving a look of high praise to Prince Aiden and a curious look to Gareth, Isolde and Alistair.

Alistair turns away from the sponsorship that Isolde and Aiden work out to regard Gareth. Slowly the man bows in recognition. "Prince Inquisitor..." he states as his hands clasp behind his back at an attention like stance.

Kahlana looks over to the Elephant and she gasps widely "Oh my Ive never seen one of them up close!" she says as she inches in to get to get a better look, her eyes look over to those nearby, "have you ever seen such a thing?" she asks to whomever was listening

Silas leaves, then returns with another large bag which emanates the smell of fresh wood. The parade is given some attention when he returns, but it looks like it was mostly done. He gives Aiden an apologetic glance, then a salute.

Aiden keeps a careful eye on the animals. There are a lot of handlers out today and the animals are paraded through with enough SPACE between them that nothing fights with one another. Aiden's eyes flicker over the display, then toward his cousin, "Val! You made it. Yah, it's great isn't it? This is just a little taste of what can really happen here, with the right efforts and the right people and volunteers..." He exhales a breath and wide eye stares at Isolde, "Why certainly! Wow! Thank you. I'll make sure that is noted in the books!" He nods to the scribe who is taking documentation and helping with the book keeping. "Your donation will greatly help the Menagerie!"

"Where is Jael?" Cristoph mutters to himself as a parade of animals passes by him. His eyes widen in surprise at some of them and he takes a careful step back. Surely they're under control, but who knows, right? When they get to the dias he's happy enough to watch them from way over here. Eventually there are people handing out flowers and such. He laughs when one is handed to him and he tips his head in thanks. Then he tucks it behind his hair in a show of masculine display.

Gareth places his swordstick in front of him and leans on it as he looks over at Isolde and Aiden a moment. He glances back at Alistair and nods, "I was hoping to be able to speak to you soon. Are you free some time over the next couple of days?" He taps his swordstick onto the ground a couple of times, eyes moving off of the other man and scanning the crowds.

Juliana blinks at Mira's response to the elephant and leans in, "Are you alright my dear?" Juliana seems startled more by Mira than the large pachyderm. Asher's compliment however, returns her to business as usual. She levels a huge smile on him, her sweet face all the sweeter for the genuine charm found in that expression. "Why thank you! They are -- you know, I'm not precisely sure the name of the bird. Quail, I think?" The long, black feathers with white polkadots would appear to be quail.

Isolde shakes her head, smiling at Aiden. "It's nothing. If they were still here, I'm certain they would have loved to see this project." The Princess pauses then, leaning in towards the prince to speak quietly. "If possible, could the exhibit in question involve foxes?" Once she's got an answer, Isolde turns her attention to the two inquisitors. "Prince Gareth." Her voice is warm as she address the scarred man. "It's been a while."

Arcelia stays with Karadoc, respectful and smiling while her player runs off to do RL stuff.

"Thank you. Thank you. Oh thanks! Thank-" Jael is just pressing through the crowd and accepting flower garlands and drinks and fruit from the Whispers as she goes and finally locates her wayward brother, pinning him with an icy stare. "You were /not/ supposed to leave the house without me," she tells him, brandishing one of about three cocktails at him.

Valerion nods to Aiden and gives him that knowing grin,"Well I can volunteer, you know I would do anything for you cousin." He reaches over and playfully nudges him, laughing softly before he remembers he was in polite company. He looks over to Isolde,"Forgive me for interrupting your conversation your highness." He gives her a bow of his head before he steps back and listens to her speaking about the two Inquisitors. Interesting territory.

Mira lays a hand on her chest, watching the large predators one after the other--and the little birdies too, with considerably less worry. Swallowing once they've gone by, she nods to Juliana and Asher, demurely clasping her hands behind her back. "Yes. Sorry. I was startled." Cryptic answer. Looking back up to the podium as the raffle looks to be about to start, Mira produces a fan, flicks it open, and lightly fans herself, still a little pale.

Aiden nods, "I'll mark your preference. I'll be messaging all the Sponsors once the event is closed. I can't possibly sort out the logistics at present time."

Larissa takes the stage once more and drops into a graceful curtsy "I hope you all enjoyed tonight's entertainment. I'm certain all of the animals enjoyed being showed off. This is only a portion of what I think we all know we are capable of hosting in our Menagerie. I believe with the guidance of Prince Aiden this will grow into a sanctuary and refuge for all the many beautiful creatures of our world... And now for the fun part! I wish you all the best of luck with your raffles!" and with one last wave the Whisper stepped down to mingle.

Karadoc smirked and watched it all, with a small nod.

"Prince Gareth, Princess Isolde and Inquisitor Alistair," Marian greets them as she follows Valerion to the group that's by the sponsorship table, "Yes, Prince Aiden...I would be happy to assit with the event." She gives her friend a big smile, "I am after all invested since I donated my suit of armor and offered a sponsorship. I only hope others give as well and you get everything you need to do all the expansions."

Alistair stares at his fellow Inquisitor in silence and for a moment, there might be some tension there. Then he once more nods his assent. "Of course Prince Inquisitor. I shall make myself avaliable." Perhaps its just the man's natural lag or languidness that delayed his response. As Valerion approaches, he gets a similar stare. And once more... showing how he has adapted to society, Alistair nods his head in greeting.

"How are you carrying that many cocktails?" Cristoph boggles, taking one from Jael. He's helping her out! He also begins to drink from the glass, which must think is also helping her. "You were taking too long to get ready so I got impatient." Which could either mean he's, exaggerating or maybe not. The call for the raffle goes out and he rocks on his heels, drinking deeply from his cups.

Marian is overheard praising Larissa for: Her entertainment was inspiring. A beautiful rite to Jaynus.

With the animals passed and the courteseans out with drinks and food, Edward picks up two flutes of wine from a tray and then offers one to Carita, "The animals are fantastic. I think the Prince will do very well with his job here." he says softly to the Lady he escorted in.

    "First figurine prize goes to Lord Karadoc," Silas announces from his place at the door, producing from the bag a stately deer figurine. He moves to deliver it to the lord, wherever he was within the area!

Kahlana moves closer to Christoph "hey" she calls to him, what do you think of the Parade? Did you buy any tickets or sponsors?" she asks

Gareth nods to Alistair. "Good, good." Isolde's greeting catches his attention next. "Princess Isolde." He turns his blue-violet eyes onto the princess. "It has been a while. Some might say too long, but time does seem to move faster than I'd like it to. How have you been?" Marian and Valerion's approach earns each of them an appraising glance, though Marian also gets a slight nod in return for her greeting.

Karadoc stood in the crowd, watching and waiting like most of the others. He was chattign idly to those around, Christoph being one, "I always have such poor luck when it comes to auctions and raffles.... I never win any...." He paused as his name was called out, and the owl figurine given to him. He looked utterly stunned, "Well THAT's an interesting turn of luck..." He laughed, shaking his head as he looked it over.

Asher eyes Mira for a time, still worried. A small offer of a hand to hold for her now that one hand is busy but the other is not, but if she doesn't accept then he doesn't worry. But then he looks to Juliana again, chuckles. "Quail? The small - adorable, of course - ground-running fowl?" He smiles softly, then looks to the animals presented. And the flower garlands being handed out. And the champagne - the champagne! That's delicious, he'll have some yes please. "Perhaps something more... /Vibrant/ is warranted. Peacock, or... Some other exotic bird." He shrugs a bit, then looks to Juliana again. "But of course it has to /work/ with your wardrobe. That's the difficult part, I suppose."

"No, hey, that's-" It's gone. The cocktail is gone. Jael rearranges the remains of her treasures, most of which are flowers. "Look, Cris, we can't all just swan out without brushing our hair now, can we." She takes a spot beside her brother and tiptoes again, peering around at the whole shindig and then stage whispers rather loudly, "Where's the bear?"

Larissa wanders up to the crowd gathered around Aiden and a cheerful smile is given to all. "Good evening" she offers to Isolde and Marian and Gareth and Alistair as she tries to thread her arm through Alistair's "I've not seen you in ages Inquisitor Alistair, we should remedy this. I hate to think that you live in that frown of yours for too long. Did you all enjoy the show?" she asks, beaming a smile at Marian as she'd noticed the woman watching her fellow Whispers work their magic.

Artorius smiles to Karadoc, patting him on the back lightly "Hey, look at you!" he chuckles.

Fiora arrives late to the event, but she arrives! Entering the Menagerie, she looks around, then starts slipping through the crowds to join her cousin. Along the way, she offers a smile towards Silas and tips her head, murmuring, "Baron. Always a pleasure, my lord." Quickening her step, she reaches his side and immediately plants herself there. Glancing up, she smiles faintly once more and offers, "Thank you for being easily spotted, cousin."

Valerion is overheard praising Marian for: For being so uplifting at the Menagerie!

Whisper the Snowy Owl arrives, following Killian.

Aiden smiles to those around him, "Thank you for the support! The menagerie is for us all! We'll set to work on it as soon as I can meet with all the sponsors, even if they stay and chat with me after the fundraiser's main events are concluded." The entertainment he looks over toward Larissa, a BIG grin on his face because wow. Then back to business. Raffle tickets and sponsorship questions. Valerion gets a laugh, "Careful what you say Valerion, I may need help cleaning up the place!"

She accepts the flute from Edward with a dazzled smile, bright-eyed, and delightfully overwhelmed by the proceedings. Was there another event she was considering? Perhaps, but, the fundraiser and her company have secured all of her attention. Carita laughs sweetly, "I would say he was very successful with this evening, my lord." she glances around again at all the mingling guests, Whispers, and the bright array of decorations. "It's going to be even nicer than it was."

"Thank you! Yes! You get it." Juliana beams a smile to Asher, fixing him with a look before lifting a hand to wag a finger at him. "You and I are going to be fast friends." She lifts a hand to touch her earrings, ruffling the boldly patterned feathers. "I have a number of pairs where the feathers have been painted. These I liked for the pattern. The white dots call out the pearls in my hair..." She smiles and says, "Lady Juliana Pravus, a pleasure to meet you...?"

Isolde looks between the two inquisitors, studying them. The delay, the possible tension is noted. "I've been quite busy with my duties as voice." She smiles, pausing to take a glass of wine from a passing courtesan's tray. "But honestly, I think I haven't been happier." The wine gets a tentative sip. "We really should put aside a day to catch up."

Alistair checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Artorius smiles to Fiora "Hello Fiora. How are you today?" he smiles softly, his daughter Serah looking at Fiora, but doesn't Recognize her as the five year old sits on her fathers shoulders. "H-hi!"

Silas returns to his place near the entrance. Fiora is given a smile and bow when she passes by. "Good evening, Lady Fiora!" He chimes before peering at his list again. "Next goes to Lady Tikva." The figurine he produces next is a sleek wooden hound.

Karadoc standing close, he gave a nod to Fiora, "Good evening, Lady Fiora." He bowed his head.

Whisper the Snowy Owl leaves, following Killian.

Mira looks a little woosy, trying to keep up with the whirlwind of activity around her. Her eyes drooping nearly closed, she grasps at Asher's hand, missing it and grabbing his arm lightly instead. She leans on him heavily, murmuring something quietly before opening her eyes again and straightening herself a bit, waiting to hear the raffle announcements. Juliana isn't forgotten either, but Mira can only nod lightly at her, apologizing. "I am sorry. I am not completely well."

"Ooo!" Tikva cheers in delight as she swarms up to Silas to accept the hound. "Lovely! Of course, now Tiber will want a real one--"

Alistair does not react to the Whisper threading her arm through his, the man glancing to her for a moment as she inserts herself. "Whisper..." the man remarks in his low tone. "It was quite the spectacle. As one should expect from your house." He compliments with any lack of true joy or approval in his voice. But then again that is just how he is!

Edward sips his drink as he nods in agreement with Carita and he looks over to Silas as he shouts out the door prizes. He smiles and then says softly, "Excuse me one moment," and then he goes over to purchase some of the raffle tickets and then returns with a handful of them. He takes a look around at those gathered and then he smiles and wiggles them, "Now let me see if I am as unlucky at raffles as I am at dice and cards."

Aiden picks up a willow basket with a red ribbon tied to the handle.

Aiden checked composure at difficulty 7, rolling 35 higher.

Carita ducks her head to laugh, lifting the flute to take a sip from it. Her lips touch the rim of the glass and she murmurs around it, voice lowered.

The Lord Commander smiles back to Tikva and nods. "He definitely will. But that shouldn't be a terrible thing to remedy!" Silas answers and his hand sneaks into the bag again. He pauses when he notices that Aiden is giving away a basket. No desire to interrupt.

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

Isolde checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

"Oh?" Asher raises an eyebrow at Juliana. "You like the feathered earrings, then?" He gives a small 'hmm', and is obviously thinking up something. "What about something in gold leaf? Literally, gold leaf. Perhaps... A stronger metal, coated in gold, to make it sturdy... Iron, would make sense. But the gold overlay would prove nice." When Mira grasps his arm, he then realizes she did try for his hand. And, of course, does his best to keep her steady... While making sure it doesn't look like he's doing anything. He's subtle about it. Looking to Juliana to keep her attention, he adds, "I think you need something on that neckline of yours, too. Draw attention to your collarbones. Most men won't say it but for some reason they're attective if framed right."

Gareth eyes Larissa as the Whisper approaches and slips her arm through Alistair's. "Elephants seem entirely too intelligent for their own good." He looks back towards Isolde and nods. "We should. Do you still care for tea? I would be more than willing to set aside some time for some tea and pleasant conversation."

Fiora looks to Serah, the hood obscuring her features, offering the girl a faint smile. Reaching into a pouch, she pulls a small bag of sweets from it, offering it up to the girl, "Do you still like taffy, pretty girl?" Shrugging at Artorius, she murmurs, "I am fine, as always. And yourself, cousin?" Karadoc gets a nod and a quick bow, murmuring, "My lord. Good evening."

Juliana turns a sympathetic eye on Mira and nods, "Clearly my dear. Well. I shall leave you to your recovery." She looks to Asher with a discerning eye and then laughs delightedly. "I believe your companion requires your attention good sir. But yes. I would love to trade ideas with you some time soon. I am recently arrived, but I have a feeling we shall run into one another again."

Kahlana looks to Aiden as he begins the Raffle draw, she shakes her head and turns to go, for now, her donation already made.

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

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

Karadoc gave a bow of his head in turn, "Good to see you out and about."

Artorius smiles warmly to Fiora when she gives sweets to Serah, who GLADLY accepts it. She makes an excited gasp "T-thankyouthankyouthankyou!" she looked like she was ready to leap at Fiora. Artorius would smile to Fiora "I'm beyond glad to hear it dear cousin. I'm well as I can be, better now that I'm with my daughter again."

Aiden excuses himself from the raffle booth and picks up the red ribbon basket. He moves toward the wooden models on display and clears his throat. "Ladies and Gentlemen, if I can have your attention for a brief moment? I'd like to make the first raffle draw of the night. It'll be for the basket with the red ribbon in my hand now!" He holds it up and mentions, "Within, are the contents from a variety of places, with the main feature being from Of Mixtures Obscura, donated by Mistress Mirari. The item is a bauta Lion Mask. As well, I have a voucher for a Massage, ladies and gentlemen, from one Mistress Malena Black, as well as a variety of perfumes, soaps, candy and cigarillos. A very good prize, I would say. Everyone get your tickets ready." An assistant comes over to present him with a class fish bowl, where all the ticket stubs have been tossed into.

Asher nods to Juliana, and realizes he's not given his name, because he was distracted. "Aye, that she does. Oh! Apologies. My name. Asher Grayhope; I've got a little shop at the Emporium that's opening soon. The ring in that purple-ribboned basket... I made that. Though I wonder who bought it..." Because he certainly hasn't seen coin from it yet... Something to check on. "But if people like that, then I'll make more."

If Larissa is put off by the dour Inquisitor, she certainly doesn't show it. Her smile is warm and alive as she makes a point to shine just a little brighter, as though he might just need it a little more. "Thank you! I was rather impressed as well. Of course what else can be expected from a house of entertainers?" she muses as her gaze spills that smile of hers to Gareth as well "Indeed, Prince Inquisitor! Though I should think that it's not only elephants, don't you think? But of course, ours would be a far less interesting world without them."

"I'm still a fan of tea." Isolde says, about to say more when Larissa appears. Her smile flickers--for just a fraction of a second--before she's all warmth and politeness again. "And I'd love to further discuss your opinions on Elephants." The princess teases.

Aiden has rolled 1 159-sided dice: 15

Mira smiles and gives Juliana a small wave. "Mira Matessi. Attorney at...Law." Her smile is faint. "Please, stop by some time. When I am in better spirits."

Isolde checked charm + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 57 higher.

Aiden pulls out a ticket stub, "Ticket R15!"

"Mr. Grayhope, excellent. Then I shall be glad to become a patron of your shop." Juliana smiles to him once more before looking back to Mira, "Ms. Matessi! My cousin Lady Nicia is also an attorney. It is an honorable profession. Do feel better soon, I hope." She offers them both an airy wave before she drifts off with a rustle of silken skirts, her eyes turning to others present.

Marian places her hand over her heart and can't stop herself from complimenting Larissa who arrived at the small cluster that she's standing near, "Your performance was nothing short of inspired." She looks like she could go on but then she pauses and blinks when Aiden announces the ticket that she's holding in her hand. She suddenly lets out a battlecry that is deafening. And then she holds up the ticket like it's a favored prize, "I won!"

"I've heard some Abandoned tribes ride them into battle." Alistair states, a bit of trivia being shared on elephants. Possibly learned from whatever secret Prodigal conclaves he attends. The idea of Alistair riding an elephant into battle are as abusrd as everyone can imagine. For a brief moment his attention turns towards Aiden and the raffle that is played out for the delight of everyone present.

Valerion smirks to Marian with a bit of an inquisitive look,"Mari, you donated your armor? The old set I assume? Since the new set was so beautiful. Then again cousin you are the fickle mistress of armor." He chuckles a bit and looks over to Aiden when he yells out the ticket number. Grinning and clapping for Marian as she had won,"Congrats cousin!" Val turned to look at the two Inquisitors, Alistair and Gareth. "I don't believe we have met. My name is Valerion, of House Valardin." He extends a hand in greeting.

"You're welcome, pretty girl. Don't eat them all at once, okay? And make sure you brush your teeth tonight. Believe me, nothing is yuckier than taffy in your teeth in the morning," Fiora offers up to Serah with a smile before looking back to Artorius with a nod. "She needs you, its good that you're with her."

Ulf arrives, following Fergus.

Graham enters thouh a bit late it seems. He will glance around a moment before stepping off to the side a little bit. He looks tired.. is one one of putting it. He moves to watch the items on auction though from the back for now it doesnt seem he will bid at the moment.

Cristoph downs the rest of his drink, hands off the empty glass and slips away into the crowds. Did he just ditch his sister? That's not very nice!

Aiden shoots out an arm toward the BATTLEcry victor. He can't help but to laugh quietly, "Princess Marian looks to be our winner! Congratulations!" He waves her up toward the front and hands her a prize, smiling politely to her. "At this time, I'd also like to announce that we have secured Four Golden Eagle sponsors! And one Bronze Bear and Iron Monkey sponsor. We have also had two Diamond Hawk sponsors at this time! I want to thank everyone for their efforts in helping the Menagerie! We'll get to another draw shortly." And quick 10min a pause for more door prizes and socializing!

There is a round of applause for Marian, winner of the first willow basket. He pulls out another wooden figurine from the bag he was carrying, this one clearly a wolf. "This one will be going to Lord Artorius!" He declares, eyes scanning the crowd for the winner.

Serah smiles to Fiora, nodding repedetively as she begins to snack on her sweets. Artorius settles her down so she can stand next to him as he holds her hand. He would smile softly to Fiora "I'm happy to be here with her. She's all I got. She's my whole world." he smiles to Fiora, wrapping an arm around his cousin VERY briefly. Once he let go, he looked to the stage and his eyes widened a little "Oh? I won something? Phenomenal." he smiles, handing Serah for a small moment to Fiora to watch as he goes to retrieve his prize.

Larissa beams another smile to Isolde and hums softly "I'm certain the conversation will be scintillating." she teases to the Princess, either not noticing or not reacting to the flicker of smile. Instead she turns to Alistair again with a look of interest "Truly? Can you even imagine? Their hides are so thick, aside from their size alone I imagine they would be difficult to harm. Perhaps it is a practice some of the armies of Arx should adopt" she muses, having become quite the fan of elephants in particular after the several days spent planning the parade. - Then a smile is offered to Marian and she releases her hold on Alistair to give her a round of applause "Oh well done my Lady! And thank you so very much. To inspire, I believe, is to brush the hand of Jayus himself and I could not be more pleased."

Tikva is now absent-mindedly playing with her door prize, rolling the beautifully carved little hound back and forth between her hands as though tasting its texture even as she drifts among the partygoers with vague curiosity in her gaze. Now and again she'll see someone she knows and smile with a crooked sunniness, but she has yet to really pounce on anyone, instead drifting with an abstracted air as she listens to the goings on around her.

Gareth glances between Isolde and Larissa. "It was something of a joke, though I admit that my sense of humor died quite some time ago." He spots Valerion out of the corner of one eye and turns, glancing down at Valerion's offered hand for entirely too long before reaching forward and gripping the hand with a limp grip, gaze coming up to meet the man's, blue-violet eyes cold and unyielding. "Prince Gareth Grayson, Inquisitor. It's always a distinct pleasure to meet people of quality of the good and noble house of Valardin."

Mira steps away from Asher after a few moments, "Pardon me, sir." Wandering further into the crowd, the redhead in a plain white dress drifts further into the crowd, eventually passing by Malesh, whom she quite literally runs into. She was looking sidelong over toward where the predators and elephant and birdies all went earlier, and she gasps, staggering backwards and lifting her hands apologetically, "Oh, I'm so sorry!"

Marian does a quick jog up to the stage after Valerion congratulates her. She takes the willow basket that Aiden is offering. She looks at the prizes in the basket, "This looks amazing." As she compliments the donors that put this together. Once she retrieves her prize, then she heads back to Valerion, who is standing next to Gareth, Isolde, Larissa and Alistair.

Chuckling, Fiora picks Serah up, settling her on a hip to let the girl watch her father collect his prize.

Julianatakes a last lingering look around the Menagerie before she slips towards the exit, casting a last glance over her shoulder before she slips away.

"That seems like it'd be a frightening sight to behold." Isolde comments casually, taking another sip of her wine. When Valerion introduces himself to the inquisitors, the princess gives him a welcoming curtsy. "Prince Valerion! And where is Princess Ophelia? It's rare to see you two apart." She teases before glancing at Larissa. "Mm, I'm sure it will be quite entertaining. Though in all seriousness, Prince Gareth is good company. And his tea is divine."

Free from Larissa's hold Alistair... does not flee. He turns to regard Valerion once more, allowing Gareth to take the lead in introductions whereas Alistair simply assesses the Valadrin man. Few wish to greet and introduce themselves to the Inquisiton. Best the Crown's Order never knows your name, for if they do you are probably already locked up in a cell... and the confession is already drafted. "Inquisitor Alistair." the Prodigal rumbles out in greeting. To Larissa the man asks, "Will there be elephants in the menagerie... or are they property of the Whisper House?"

Malesh is just minding his own business looking at the proceedings when somebody runs right into him! He Oofs a little and looks down, his arms swinging up on instinct to catch Mira as she backs away. "Oh, my dear, I'm terribly sorry, I was watching the raffle..." His smile is big and broad and he takes all the blame himself. "Marquis Malesh Stormwood... at our service."

Again, must like the last time Fergus ran into one of these things, he somehow managed to walk into it by accident. Or maybe it was the warcry that bought his attention. Pay the fee to get inside, he hangs around the entrance, not exactly sure what to expect. Needs to pay more attentions to the goings on in the city.

Aiden has to be up here because he's the host. He is for the moment, looking okay, mind the sweat runs down the side of his face that he has to wipe off. "Ladies and Gentlemen!!! I'd like to now present the Dragon Armor in which was donated to us. I'll be taking bids for the next hour (ooc 15min). This will be a silent auction so that you can enjoy yourselves! Attendants will be going around with paper in which you can write your bid on. I'll announce the top bid and allow for a second round of bids. I'll then announce the highest bid and offer a final round of bids. The winner will be declared shortly afterward!"

Valerion watched Marian make quick work of the stage as she deftly made her way up. It reminded him it had been a while since they last had gone through The Gauntlet. When she returned he smirked and poked the basket. "Since when are you into those kind of things Mari?" Though when the other Prince addresses him he gives him a respectful nod,"I know many might not say as much but..." He looks between Alistair and Gareth. "Thank you for your service." Valerion was not the run of the mill knight, he was a very religious type and fully believed in the Inquisition. His eyes turned to Isolde and he blushed a bit,"Oh well...she was here, but then she ran off and err....I haven't been able to find my little huntress." He swallowed nervously. "I promise I haven't lost her!" He laughs nervously and puts his hand behind his head and gives a sheepish grin which makes him look years younger.

Her eyes wide when she's caught from stumbling backward, Mira lays a hand on her chest, looking a little paler than usual. "My apologies..." She squints a bit, tilting her head a bit as she studies Malesh. "...Marquis, wasn't it? Of Stonewood? I'm sorry, I've forgotten your first name, if I ever knew it. Mira Matessi."

Larissa gives her head a shake to Gareth "I don't believe that for a moment. A different flavor perhaps, but never dead." she responds and inclines her head to Isolde "Oh yes, perhaps he does not remember as it has been some time, however Prince Gareth and I are long acquainted and have shared many a cup of tea in each others company and I certainly agree that it's marvelous." - When Valerion arrives she offers him a smile "Lovely to see you again" she murmurs and turns to Alistair with a shake of her head "Oh no, we do not house any animals except our private pets. Those were all the animals of the Menagerie. We worked with the animal trainers here to incorporate them in our show. I felt it particularly important that we showcase precisely what this is all going towards. Most of the animals are alone, none have partners, mates or family to keep them company. I'd love to see them all happy and thriving."

"Thank you, Your Highness." Gareth says, bowing his head slightly to Isolde. Valerion's comment makes him narrow his eyes at the man. "That is an interesting thing to say. Not to many people seem eager to speak so fondly of the Inquisiton, Prince Valerion. Though if you do appreciate our mission, any information you can pass our way regarding potential enemies of the Compact will be greatly appreciated."

Malesh chuckles a little, "It's fine my dear, no apoogies needed. Malesh Stonewood strives but to be a humble servant." Just a humble Marquis that's all. "You look like you've had a rough day... too much sun perhaps? Or a lack of proper drink maybe?" He looks around, but this is Arx not Coachella, and there's no people passing around plastic bottles of water. "Here... shall I guide you to some place you can rest, young Mira?"

Artorius returns to Fiora, smiling to her "She looks happy with you. You should spend time together sometime. Please stay away from whiskey if you do." he laughs a little while he puts the wood carving in his pocket for safekeeping. He extends his arms for Serah "Thank you for watching her."

As the bids come through, Aiden's eyebrows pop up. "Really?" He says to the attendent and makes a short whistle, "The Dragon armor is beautiful. I've never seen anything like it...." He looks over the audience, "First round of bids!! Ladies and Gentlemen! Our top bid for the first around sits us at 20,000 silver! The armor stand isn't included, I'm afraid - but every piece of that fine Dragon armor will be yours. The attendants will collect second round bids if anyone wishes to bid higher! Now is your chance!"

Karadoc blinked at the bid, and then laughed, "Too fine to wear in saik tower anyway... Kima would get jealous." He mused idly.

Edward smiles as he sips his flute of wine and then he glances over to the Marquis Stonewood when he introduces himself to Mira. He notes the fellow and then he turns back to look towards Prince Aiden for the bidding.

Artorius whistles at the armor bid.

There is a twinkle in Isolde's eyes as she looks at Valerion. "You can't find her? Oh dear." She tilts her and covers her mouth with a slender hand. Feigning shock. "Careful, she might be a danger to the Menagerie's birds." By her tone, it's clear that Isolde is simply teasing the nervous prince. Then her attention returns to the others. "I agree that the Inquisiton's job is admirable. You both do fine jobs in protecting us." Ironic, coming from her.

Mira shakes her head, eyes suddenly wide, "Oh, no, I am fine. Fine-ish." She glances aside, "Fine-esque." She shrugs, looking up at him. "Perhaps a bit of both." She smiles faintly, dipping her head briefly, "I'm trying to stay moving. I fear if I sit down, I might fall asleep."

"And many of the Faith might be insulted that some still acknowledge our Order's protogensis." Alistair rumbles out after Gareth, a slight glance to the Prince Inquisitor. Alistair is often seen with a Sentinel brooch pinned to his jacket in one place or another, so many might assume this Inquisitor has some faith in him. Most of their order though...? Coin goes farther then any prayers. To Larissa, he nods his head in agreement, "A laudable desire..." But then he has to remark to Gareth. "I believe they are attempting to flatter us."

Silas reaches into his bag once more and pulls out a wooden figurine in the shape of a deer. He turns his head and peers at the list in his hand -- the names of those attending. One brow perks up. "Lady Fiora gets the deer figurine." He looks up expectantly, though a little cautious about interrupting the lady's conversation.

Eyeballing the armor, Fergus to hang around the back of the crowd, watching the progression. If he's bidding or not on it, hard to say, but he's looking on with interest. A slight incline of the head towards Marian when she takes her prize. The Redrain is content to stay out of the way for the time being, plucking a drink from one of the servers passing on by him.

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

Fiora gives a snort and smiles faintly. "She is a good girl, Artorius. And I'm afraid my time is rather limited right now.. I wouldn't be here tonight but for a miraculous opening in my schedule." Then suddenly her name is being called and there is very much a deer-in-bright-lights moment where she freezes in place, staring up towards the stage. It lasts only a moment before she clears her throat and gives a nod, moving upto the stage to collect her prize, murmuring something to Silas with a lifted brow, then shrugging and moving back to join her cousin.

Malesh shakes his head a little and looks around some, guaging the state of the event. He's seen the animals and doesn't appear to be bidding so... "I tell you what..." He's holding Mira close now, to keep her on her feet, "Poor thing, let's get you away from this crowd and see if we can't get you some help." Hr turns some more then, trying to help Mira away from the crowds.

Valerion was a little bit horrified at the thought of Ophelia getting too close to the birds at the menagerie. He paled a bit but then relaxed when he heard her laugh. "Oh, haha, yes yes....the birds." He still seems a bit nervous, chewing his bottom lip as he stands there. Then he shakes his head and runs his hands through his hair before looking over to Gareth. "Well perhaps the average person has more to hide, I am devout and unhindered by any dark ambitions. My heart is pure, like my body your highness. If I catch wind of any foulness afoot you can be sure I will be in touch." He looks over to Marian,"Cousin, we should run The Gauntlet again soon. I was just thinking I could do for a good spar as well. My skills have improved since we last had a bout."

When Mira left Asher's side, he was watching her with a worried eye; but that's only because she seems like she needs it. Hmm. Looking towards the prizes and such, he notes that things are missing from the 'pile', and realizes he doesn't know who got it. But not him. He would have known if it was him. So, he moves up to see what's going on, and that shows him off like a spotlight - so many nobles around, and here he is, in half-dirty leathers, gold earrings in rat-like shape. Usually, he can blend into the crowd. Tonight, he stands out because he's the only mostly-/boring/ one.

Marian smiles at her cousin when he jokes about her not liking the things in the basket, "I may be the Sword of Sanctum but don't let it be said that I don't enjoy a little pampering from time to time." She gives him a little shoulder nudge with a twinkle in her eye. She turns to Gareth and Alistair and tells them with a respectful look, "Yes, thank you for your service." She gives Alistair a deadpan laugh, "And I don't flatter...it's a simple truth that you protect Arx just as I do...just in a different fashion." She pauses as Prince Aiden calls out for folks to join the auction for the suit of armor and she smiles as she notices some folks taking interest. She motions for Fergus to come and join them. When Valerion mentions running the Gauntlet, she gives a nod, "Yes...my pride is getting too great, I need another fall."

Aiden takes a few more bid sheets, fewer than the first round. Much fewer. That's to be expected. "The current winning bid stands at 35,000 silver! Oh my, we can fund an expedition for this! Certainly we can put it toward good use!" He is thrilled, "35,000 silver! One last round ladies and gentlemen! If you really want that armor, make this your best bid yet!"

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

Artorius smiles softly to Fiora "She really is. I'm happy you were able to make it. I don't know too many of the people here, and plus, you're one of my closest friends and compatriots. I'm happy your here.d" he looks over her statuette.

Isolde bites back a laugh at the pure heart, pure body comment. But out of politeness, she stifles her amusement. Valerion seems like a kind young man after all, she shouldn't tease him too much. "I'm sure they'll be safe." Isolde laughs, before slipping away over to wear the armor stands. It seems she wishes to judge it's quality before considering another bid. Prince Fergus is nearby and she gives him a small, respectful nod of her head. "It's been a long time."

Mira blinks, looking a little alarmed. "What? Oh..." She shakes her head a bit, "No, I'll be fine. I'm just...light headed." She nods, adjusting her glasses on her nose. "I was hoping to stay until the raffle is finished at the very least."

Silas exchanges a whisper with Fiora before she slinks back to her seat, then reaches back into his bag o' gifts. He pulls out an eagle figurine. "The eagle goes to Master Asher!" He announces.

Gareth nods at Alistair, "I do believe you are correct, but as long as action is put behind words, I cannot complain too much." He glances over towards the other Inquisitor for a moment and then back to Valerion. "I do not judge someone for the purity of their heart or body, Your Highness, only their dedication to the Compact and to the Crown. Those are the only two qualities that I use to judge the measure of any man or woman."

Sparte continues to graze the food, happy to be outside of the limelight of the event.

Moving on over when invited, Fergus joins up with Marian and who she happens to be with. "Could help you out with that, Marian." he offers with a grunt. "If you're looking to get put on your ass for a change of pace." Certainly said with a bit of mirth, curiously watching the bidding continue on. "What you win? Missed out on that. And what you do to win it?"

At the arrival of a few messengers Larissa disentangles herself from the small group that had formed near the stage "Lords, Ladies, Princes and Princesses and Inquisitors all - I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening. Thank you so much for showing such support, it's honestly moments like this that I am so humbled by the greatness our city truly offers." she turns to Aiden and gestures that another of the Whispers will take her place as she needs to take her leave to see to a private matter. One last smile is offered, and she slips away into the crowd and out of the menagerie.

Edward finishes his wine and gets a new one from a passing Whisper, adding another fresh glass for the Lady Carita as well. He smiles to her as they talk quietly while he continues to look around.

Petal seems very shy at this event. She watches the auction with curious interest. The girl has her sewing basket and she peeks down at the tunic inside. She finds a place to sit pulls out the tunic and starts working on stitches. The girl has issues and is always sewing.

Baron Archibald Chirpington, a Gyrfalcon arrives, delivering a message to Fergus before departing.

Asher blinks a few times when his name is called. And waits a bit, with the obvious thought, 'someone else named Asher'. But then he looks over towards Silas, and raises an eyebrow. He points to himself questioningly, and mumbles something about door prizes being a good enough excuse to be noticed, and heads over towards the man in a quiet manner, clearing his throat. "Did /not/ actually expect to win anything. So this is a pleasant surprise."

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

Carita takes a new glass of wine from her very, very attentive escort. Carita lifts her chin up, glances sidelong toward Edward in a way that's simply defined as indulgent, and she laughs softly.

Charlemagne the Unicorn leaves, following Larissa.

Fiora chuckles at Artorius and nods, looking around, "I'm afraid I don't much of anyone myself. Maybe we should go... mingle? Introduce ourselves?"

Karadoc gave a small nod, watching what was going on.

Marian gives a smile to Fergus, "I bought a raffle ticket and Prince Aiden just happened to call my number right before you arrived." She gives a solemn nod when the inquisitor brings up that his dedication to the Compact and to the Crown. She then goes back to explaining the event to Fergus, "Right now they're auctioning off a suit of armor that I donated for the cause."

Silas snickers to Asher and hands over the eagle figurine. "This was one of my favorites to make. You're luckier than you think."

Malesh stands there holding Mira up so she can get some standing rest and stay for the raffle. He's a soid enough guy for leaning on it seems.

Valerion looked around a bit more for Ophelia now as if the screech of songbirds would reach his ears any moment. Though when Marian shoulder bumps him, he smirks and is brought back to the moment. "Well we all need a good fall to keep us humble Marian. None the less it has been too long." Valerion's purple orbs look over to Isolde who wandered off to assess the armor. She was an interesting one, he had not met her in all this time here in Arx. His whole six weeks. Though when Gareth spoke he nods to him,"Well I guess what I heard about the Inquisition was a tad bit different but of course. I am all too willing to lend any assistance I can. As a good Samaritan or perhaps in a more martial fashion. Perhaps something we could discuss further at a later date when you are available for such talks Prince Gareth?" He looked over to Alistair a little nervously.

"Oh, I always am, I suppose. Thank the Thirteen." Asher laughs softly, examining the eagle a bit, and stepping a few steps away. "Like that bit in the Uppers with that urchin. Lucky me, he actually fell for that 'kissing his mom' threat." He shakes his head, laughing. "I still laugh about it."

Mira wanders around a bit, staying moving as much as she can, trying not to linger too long in any one spot. She looks a little tired, but she sighs and wanders to a refreshment table, looking over the offerings for something energizing.

It seems that as Isolde reaches Fergus, the Prince has moved onto talk with Princess Marian. No matter, she puts in a final bid on the armor and then makes her way over to the pair of royals. They both receive a curtsy in greeting. "Congratulations, Princess Marian." She offers a warm smile. "The armor is lovely. And I'm sure whatever prize you won is as well."

Artorius shrugs to Fiora "I wouldn't mind if after the bid, we mingle about." he chuckles, looking to the armor "Little too pretty for my taste I think."

"You donated the armor?" Fergus looks back to Marian. "Not bad looking armor, that. Worth a pretty silver, I'd say." There's a look over the Valardin. "So, what you win? Something fancy? Dress? Booze? Sword? Something good, right?" He hadn't noticed Isolde yet, turning partially when she arrives. "Isolde. How you doing. Looking good, as usual."

"You were very persuasive in that regard," Silas comments back to Asher. "But I wouldn't recommend trying it on anything other than street urchins."

The auction has reached it's end! Those who were bidding had been informed to make their final bids, and the bids were sealed. The attendant brings them over and Aiden goes through with them and ... well by his reaction, he simply looks dumbfounded.

Marian picks up the willow basket filled with prizes that she had left off to the side, "I won this basket...it contains all these goodies from local merchants." She turns to Isolde who compliments that armor she donated, "Yes...that suit of armor has quite the history. I wore it all through the siege and wore it in some key battles in protecting Arx."

Asher grins at Silas. "Well, I assume it would work with most males. We all have a special place in our hearts for our mothers, after all. Even if she's a hassle to be around." He shrugs, still eyeing the eagle. Wonderful work, it seems. "Just that adults would likely try to beat me senseless, and then I'd have to defend myself. I'd rather not. Because I'd win and the man would... /Hopefully/ be alive still."

Shaking her head, Fiora smiles faintly and looks at the armor. "Too heavy for me. I need light armor that I can move in without sounding like an untuned band off key everywhere I go."

Gareth eyes Valerion a moment before nodding. "We can speak on this later, Prince Valerion. Feel free to send word and let me know when you are available for such a meeting." He grips the head of his swordstick and glances around. "I grow weary. Speak with you soon, Highness." A glance and a nod to Alistair. "Alistair." And with that the Grayson inquisitor begins moving away at a slow and deliberate pace.

Karadoc took a glass of some kind of juice from the refreshment table, and sipped on it while they waited to see who's bid won, and to see who won the other raffles.

Aiden has to re-read the numbers a bit, "The armor will be going to Lord Edward Redreef, for the value of 68,750 silver and resources...!!" He gives an applaud toward the Lord Edward, "The armor is yours Lord! Congratulations!"

Karadoc blinked at the announcement of the bid, and shook his head, giving a few short claps.

Aiden picks up a metal armor stand with crosspieces.

Artorius whistled "Holy moly." he chuckled faintly. He then looks to Fiora "Yeah...that would impede you rather than help you I think."

"Bottle of whiskey, a dagger, and a good cheese wheel. That's my ideal goodie basket." Fergus utters, outwardly showing a bit of curiosity in who won the armor. "You wore it, eh? Well, have to figure that the person who wins it is a lucky son of a bitch, then." Once the winner is read off, he snaps his fingers. "Shit, I thought I had that set of armor won." Apparently, he had been bidding on it.

OOC: Movement of stand was not IC.

Edward blinks and seems quite surprised at the announcement. He grins widely and then he gives a bow to the Prince, "Thank you, Your Highness." he smiles widely and seems quite happy with the results. "Well." he grins to Lady Carita next to him.

Silas raises one brow at Asher. "You would, huh?" He looks a little skeptical at the man's claim. "Just be careful with that confidence."

Aiden picks up a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Petal's brown eyes widen as she hears the winning bid. "Wow.." She murmurs. She gives Edward a smile.

Marian claps her hands and gives Lord Edward a salute when Prince Aiden names him the winner. She calls out to the man, "May that armor serve you well." Giving him an appreciate look for donating such a high price to The Menagerie Revitalization Project. She turns to Fergus and claps him on the shoulder, "And too bad...I wouldn't have minded to see it in your hands either."

Lifts her hand to her mouth, as though to hide the gasp of surprise behind the splay of her fingers. Her eyes widen. Narrow with impish delight, glancing sidelong at Edward. "Well." Carita repeats, looking back at him with that hint of a smirk. "An impressive donation to an excellent cause, my lord Redreef. Congratulations for winning that bid."

It would seem that with the armor auctioned off, all good things must come to an end! At least for the prize part! There's three gift baskets left. And a mystery gift too! "Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for your time tonight! And all your donations! We'll be wrapping up with the basket draws and conclude officially into socializing at your will. I'll be happy to take your questions and your suggestions, as well as speaking to the sponsors! The menagerie will be spectacular with your help!" He gets that glass fish bowl with all the ticket stubs in it handed to him again, "You don't have to be present to win! Just a gentle reminder if we don't hear our winner leaping out of their seats!"

Running a hand through her long black hair, Isolde chuckles. "Thank you, Prince Fergus. I've always found that umbra suits me." She brushes imaginary dust off her dark colored dress. "Mm. A pity, I was bidding as well." The princess looks through the crowd, trying to search out the winner. She's quite curious to see who was willing to bed so much.

Asher raises a hand to Silas, in a kind of oath. "Aye, defend myself I would, and hopefully all would survive. But sometimes things happen." He shrugs. "Not that I'm wanting a fight." He gestures with the eagle back to Silas in a 'thank you', and trundles off to go finds refreshments. More champagne! It's tasty but the glasses are so small... He does make sure that he caught the name of the armor's winner, and the price paid for auction. Interesting! Fergus' comment about bidding on it is noted, and therefore gets Asher's attention, looking him up and down to try and figure out who he is.

Aiden hoists the basket with the blue ribbon. "Donated by the Whisper, Malik, in this blue basket is a voucher for a large painting! Also crafted by Whilem Whisper is a blue silk dress, along with a variety of wines, perfumes, soaps, and incense! We hope the winner will join!"

Edward smiles to Petal and then he nods to Princess Marian, "Thank you, Your Highness." he then turns to look at Carita, "Perhaps a turn in the wind for my luck. We shall see if it holds." he chuckles and then turns back to sip his wine and look at the Prince on the stage.

Artorius is overheard praising Aiden for: great auction and raffle event!

Aiden's hand swirls about the papers in the fish bowl... who will it be.... !!!

Aiden has rolled 1 159-sided dice: 129

"Probably more than I should've bid, but shit, I know good armor when I see it." Fergus shrugs. "Can't win'em all, I suppose. Just have to settle for trying to sucker Darren out of a new myself. Doubt it'll have the same charm though." The large man chuffs in humor. "Even if I had won it, Marian, probably have to take it out in the waist a bit, I'd say.

Valerion seems very distracted now, he can't stop looking around for his little princess. Turning back to the others he gives a deep bow and a quick look to each of them. "I really must go, Princess Ophelia is probably off somewhere getting into trouble and I should be doing so alongside her." He winks at Marian and gives everyone else a bit of a smile, the corners of his mouth turning up ever so slightly before he moves to take his leave, he stops and will give his cousin a quick hug and kiss on the top of her head. "Ah, Mari we must have that spar soon." With that the amethyst orb'd prince dashes off.

Silas smirks and gives Asher a salute, then reaches back into his bag. "Two more left," he states, and pulls out a bear figurine. "This one goes to... Prince Fergus! How appropriate."

Aiden pulls out a ticket stub for the raffle and calls out, "Ticket R129!!"

Mira cheers for Asher from her place near some broad-leafed trees! Then she looks like she regretted that and holds her head a bit, a little woosy. Did she sneak a peek at his ticket numbers? Maybe.

Marian smiles as Valerion takes off to go find Ophelia, the girl that interests him. She stays behind to hear the rest of the raffle tickets read. She smiles as Asher wins and gives a polite clap after she checks her tickets and verifies that she didn't win. She gives a smile to Isolde for bidding on her suit of armor. Fergus gets a laugh, "I would love to see you try to fit in my armor." She nods to the baskets that Aiden is raffling, "Did you buy any tickets?"

"Let's hope that the winds of change will favor your sails." Carita returns the hope, as she sets her second emptied flute of wine onto another passing tray. She sighs, pleased, and looks aside at Edward. Leaning to whisper something toward his ear.

Asher seems dropped out of his thought - he'd figured the man was Redrain but trying to figure out who he was specifically - by the ticket being called out. And though he won, he looks crestfallen. "Oh, come now, that's ridiculous!" He throws hands in the air. "'Ere I am, trying to be charitable without being noticed," he's feigning anger as he goes to accept, but it breaks into a laugh and a smile all the same. "And there we are, my number gets called." A glance back to Silas, shrugging. Maybe Asher - is - lucky! "Thank you," he notes to whomever gives it to him, "I promise to wear the dress only when the occasion calls for it. Otherwise I'll keep it safe." He finds this all hilarious. The vodka gets a closer look, and he approves, taking the basket back to sit near Mira, and looks through the basket with a curious eye. He'd seen it all, of course, but not up close like this.

Aiden waits for the prize winner to come collect their basket and even if they're not there, they've got names! He smiles toward the crowd, "I have a mystery basket draw! For everyone who entered the raffle!! This gift comes from Mistress Petal with the Tangled Skein shop! She spent considerable time on these items ladies and gentlemen, and if you're a fan of reading, you may have read a particular Cipher book that'll be helpful with the prize." He goes back to the bowl and surfs around for another one!

Aiden has rolled 1 159-sided dice: 14

Petal smiles when her name is mentioned. She is curled up with a silk tunic in her lap and a needle in her right hand.

Marian gets wide-eyed when Prince Aiden calls another one of her tickets. She only bought three at first but then seeing the prizes, including the ones from Mistress Petal, got her to buy an additional three. It's those lucky tickets that have lead to her second win of the night. She lets out another defeaning battlecry because she's winner times two. She hands the basket she's currently holding to Fergus so she can run up and get another one. She holds out her ticket to Aiden proudly.

Aiden does enjoy the reactions, of grumbling Asher and battlecrying Marian! They double check the ticket stubs match and prizes are handed off!!

Aiden picks up a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Petal smiles as Marian is announced as the winner. She seems happy with that.

Mira oooohs, leaning over to look in the basket Asher won. "You'll look lovely! Blue is so your color!" She smiles brightly, if not with any great animation. "The rest looks lovely as well. Maybe you'll even take a bath, now that you have soap!"

Fergus blinks when he's handed the bear figurine, looking a little perplexed by it. "I won something? Huh, well, that don't fucking beat all." Turning it over in his hands, he seems to like it. "Well, I think this is going on my nightstand. Gonna hold my next whiskey bottle, I think." He shakes his head at Marian. "Don't think I got the chance, but shit this is plenty good enough for me, I'm thinking." Then he's getting given a basket. "What the fuck, Marian. Did you just win *again*?"

Carita sighs, expressively, before she juts her lower lip in the softest pout. "As it seems it's my luck that's poor, Lord Redreef. There was a blue dress in one of those baskets that had so caught my eye."

Edward applauds for Marian as she has taken another prize and he then turns his smile back to Carita and he gives a nod, "There are a lot of interesting gifts in those baskets. Perhaps a breeze of luck will rattle the deck one more time." he finishes his wine and then sets in on the tray of a passing Whisper.

Aiden is handed off another basket! Prizes are flying out the door! The atmosphere is exciting but it clearly is winding down for the evening! Two baskets to go! Then drinks. And food. And socializing! "For our second last basket of the evening, within, I have a voucher from Mistress Petal as well! I hear she's in high demand for commissions and this voucher will secure yourself a garment by the talented lady! Also within the gift basket are a set of quartz earrings from a well known jeweler, along with perfumes, incense, soaps, and a candied apple that I hope won't taste like your soap by the end of the night!" It did look wrapped up, the apple, at least. Maybe? One would hope. "Grab your tickets. Listen for your number, here we go!" His hand swirls around in the bowl.

Aiden has rolled 1 159-sided dice: 116

Mira beams at Asher, looking *very* amused. "Now you can get some stockings or maybe some lingerie to go with your pretty blue dress, Messere Asher!"

Carita checked composure at difficulty 7, rolling 16 higher.

Some people have all the luck...!! It seems that buying a hoard of tickets, works in some peoples favor. The ticket pulled out is given a wave, "Ticket 116!"

"And last, but not least, the alligator goes to... Lady Carita!" Silas announces. A strange choice for a figurine, to be sure, but certainly one of the more detailed of his creations. He slips it out of the bag it resided in and presents it to the lady, regardless of the distance evidently between them. It's not a pretty dress, sadly...

Luck be a Lady tonight because Marian is on a roll. She accepts her basket from Aiden and heads back to her group, showing the basket off proudly to Fergus and the others that are near her, "This is so..." The woman is geniunely smiling. Marian almost never smiles but there is something about winning these baskets that has the warrior in a very good mood. When Aiden calls out the next number, she almost misses it but then she's won two prizes so she doesn't expect a third. She looks around to see who the other winner is. When it seems that Asher is the male side of the luck coin tonight, she throws that man a thumbs up to let him know she appreciates that he's getting a piece of luck too.

Edward smiles giving Asher a nod as he has won a second basket and then a chuckle with Mira's quip. "Prettiest one at the next masquerade ball perhaps...," he laughs and then he smiles to the Lady, "You have won a door prize. A little breeze across the bow." he chuckles.

Asher is still looking through his basket, appraising it all, when the next ticket is drawn and he looks up from the basket, eyes wide. "/Bullshit/." He doesn't stand just yet, looking over. "Absolute bull!" He's laughing and looking to Mira, smiling wide. "Maybe! Depends on what's in this other basket!" Cackling, he's standing and making his way over to get the other basket, with the first basket still in one hand, and looks to Marian. "Right?! What's this nonsense?" He's still laughing about it as he moves to sit next to Mira again. "This is silly. Truly silly."

Aiden picks up a willow basket with a purple ribbon tied to the handle.

Karadoc chuckled and shook his head.

Petal smiles over to Asher when he wins the basket with her voucher. She goes back to stitching a moment later.

Blinks. Once, twice, and she pauses very carefully as Silas calls out that she is to be given an alligator. Carita smiles, that expression quirked, as she drifts forward to accept the trinket. She turns it around in her hands to inspect it with a perfectly refined calm. Then, her shoulders shake with amusement. But she doesn't laugh. She steps back toward Edward lightly, wriggling the little alligator at him. "Appropriate, no? Although I am not surprised that it was not a snake. Or a jellyfish. Or perhaps one of those tiny, poisonous frogs like we had on Cielos."

Mira nods firmly, to Asher as he looks through the new basket, "A tiny little thong, and pretty little garters. We'll have Messere Petal measure you at once!"

The conclusion was drawing near, with the door prizes handed out, and the final gift basket brought to his attention. Aiden nods at the volunteers, "I wanted to thank all the volunteers, like Baron Silas Whitehawk and Lord Estaban Saik, for helping with the ticket sales. As well as all the Handlers at the Menagerie, all the attendants helping out tonight, and most importantly, Larissa Whisper for assisting with the night's entertainment. Now, we come to the final basket of the evening. From Coldrain Crafts, a voucher for jewelry worth 5000 silver from Mistress Sameera, a handsome Iron Serpent Ring, some cigarillos, incense, masculine scents, perfumes, and wines. It's a good prize package! Who will be our last, lucky, winner?" His hand goes swirling around in the bowl again.

"I make clothing for men as well. This tunic is for the golden father, but..." She then trails off. "Thigh highs are sort of like my speciality." Petal adds.

"I'd hang onto that luck if I were you. Shit like that is hard to find. Winning at dice is easy. Winning twice in a raffle in the same night? That's some kind of oddity right there." There's a look at the other basket she's gotten and then the one in his hands. "Gonna start making the rest of jealous. Either that, or I'm tying you to my hip during the next tourney. Maybe some of that will rub off on me."

Edward chuckles at the teasing that Asher gets and then he looks at Carita, "I see you wiggling your crocadilly at me." he grins and he adds, "I like it. Though I have never seen one before." he then turns back to the crowd at large and waits for the next basket, his eyes going to the stage.

Artorius smiles to Fiora, giving her a light nudge "Well that was fun. Sadly, jewelry and all that such is not very much my thing...but maybe the wine?"

Aiden has rolled 1 159-sided dice: 121

"Neither have I, my lord, not until today. Perhaps the revitalized menagerie shall have one. A cocodrilo, as you call it." Carita murmurs, "Nerissa will like it, I think, as long as there are no bits that can be pried off and swallowed."

Petal gently folds up her tunic, places it in the basket and then rises to her tiny slippered feet. She smiles to Aiden, Marian and Asher and then slips off.

Certainly the crowd will question... but those are the way raffles work! "Ticket 121"

Fiora lifts a shrug and murmurs, "I have to say, I do not mind a little jewelry now and then, though I would prefer a good bottle of wine more often than not."

Marian is down to 4 tickets left and she is scanning then when the last number is called. She gives a shake of her head and tells Fergus, "I guess three's the charm isn't in my cards tonight." She's not at all upset, happy with the two baskets she got. She glances about to see who's got the last basket. She gives Fergus a smile, "If I bring that kind of luck...you're in trouble at the next tourney."

Artorius nods a little, smiling to Fiora and Serah begins to braid some of the hair on his head...because why not. He shrugs "Hey, I still owe you a fine bottle of whiskey and a good walk while we have a drink." he shrugs "Besides, I don't spend enough time with you." he smiles.

Mira just kinda gawks at Asher's third win, staring with wide eyes. "...Are you enchanted or something? Is there something you're not telling me, here?" She folds her arms, tilting her head as she looks up at him from the chair she's found for herself.

Aiden drops a simple velvet bag.

Asher snorts and leans over to whisper to Mira, then kissing her forehead chastely. Apparently some things are best not for most people's ears. The final ticket is drawn, and he looks almost relieved that he didn't win. Someone else needed to win. He's still digging around the second basket, but then thinks. And sets the baskets down. "Did that man just pull out /another/ of mine?" He slowly stands, and calls out loudly, "Please for the love of the Thirteen say you didn't rig it so I could win. I'll use them all, granted, but that's just ridiculous! Well... I've got gifts to hand to friends, I suppose." He reaches where the basket is again, and holds out his ticket to be checked. "I just... Wow. It's silly, isn't it? Maybe I'll be more charitable more often." Returning with the basket, he sits down, and then eyes Mira with a shrug. "Maybe? I do have secrets. Of which I was going to inform you." In that purple-ribboned basket, he finds... "Oi! This one's a ring I made! Ha!"

Mira gets A Pot Of Vanilla Cream Coffee from a simple velvet bag.

Aiden picks up a simple velvet bag.

Edward chuckles at Asher winning another one and he says as an aside to Carita, "That there is a man who swallowed a bucket of rabbit's feet." he then looks at Asher, "Well I know what lovely lass I will be dancing with at the next ball." a quirk to his smile as Asher goes to claim his third basket.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Mira blinks, looking surprised at the kiss on her forehead. She scowls and rubs at it with her forearm, looking up at him in annoyance--until he mentions secrets. Her eyes widen, and her eyebrows jump up, "Ohhh~?" If she had tall ears, they'd probably be leaning forward right now.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a green ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Asher puts Black Iron Serpent Band in a willow basket with a blue ribbon tied to the handle.

Carita whispers one parting comment to Edward, grinning. "I need to return to the Reach, I think, before I turn into a gourd as per one of my mother's ridiculous cradle stories."

"I think I'll manage just fine either way." Fergus notes. "Don't get greedy now. Pretty sure two is enough for you. Gonna have to go through all your goodies, see what you got, eh?"

Aiden regards Asher as he comes up for the THIRD time. Aiden's brows flick up, "You're lucky tonight." While it looks like the Prince might be for a moment hesitant, he hands over the last basket to Asher, "Congratulations. And no, good man, I didn't rig anything! Luck decides when to strike, doesn't it?" Aiden laughs, "I'm sure you'll find people who will enjoy the gifts within." He looks back toward the crowd, "Thank you all for attending! It's been a huge success! I look forward to meeting with all the sponsors as soon as I can! We'll have lots to discuss. If you still wish to be a sponsor, there's ample room left! The sponsorship will continue for as long as the project does! The animals of Arx thank you!" He does a practiced bow to conclude his stint in the official spotlight!

Aiden drops a simple velvet bag.

With Asher's victories - Gild be praised, one supposes - he sighs, and looks to the purple-ribboned basket and then shakes his head. Into the other baskets, he empties his larger pockets. In those pockets of course, he carries two small bags, each one holding... Jingly things. Metal jingly things. One of the bags falls to the floor, and out tinks a single ring - a less-impressive version of the one in the purple-ribboned basket. But for the final ring, the most impressive of them, he smiles, looking over to Mira. "Like I said. I'll talk to you later about it, aye? Secrets are secret, not for everyone. But no, it's not about luck. At least so far as I know."

Edward says something softly to Carita and then he gives her a nod, "Let me make arrangements to settle up with the Prince and then I will see you back to the Reach." he turns to look to see if he can catch an attendant to speak to.

Marian gets a clay jug of Northern Shav blackberry honey mead from a simple velvet bag.

Karadoc gets A Fine Leather Rose from a simple velvet bag.

Asher also looks over to Edward, noting, "Trust me, Messere, I will be too fabulous for you to gain my attention." He makes a pose, joking. "I actually think I know someone who would prefer the dresses anyway." A handwave, looking to Mira again.

Mira nods, very slowly rising from her chair. "Of course..." But then she blinks, looking between Asher and Edward, realizing she's being looked at. "What?" She missed part of that conversation, but she waves it off, nodding to Asher and laying a hand on his arm, "I'm feeling a little faint. I think I should retire for a bit." She smiles brightly afterward, however. "And careful, thieves will think you're carrying around piles of silver with all that clanking."

Artorius gets a Bottle of Corsetina Red, a Setarcan Wine from a simple velvet bag.

Asher leans back in his seat as he looks to Mira. "Lovely Mira... I'm Asher Grayhope. They steal from me, I steal it back." He winks. "Because I'm that skilled, you recall." A bit of laughter. "Did you want someone to walk you home? I could, if you like. I can carry all these baskets I think... No worries!"

Mira looks like she's about to refuse...but she changes her mind mid-way through. Nodding, the faint-looking Mira slumps over to the side a little, "Please. I would appreciate it."

Speaking to an attendent Edward makes his intentions known and then he turns back to the Lady and holds his arm out, "Shall we?" he smiles to her and seems ready to slip out if only for a short while.

Silas puts a bewildered garden gnome in a sleek carmine leather sword belt with attached wooden scabbard.

Aiden picks up a simple velvet bag.

Silas puts a standard steel flask decorated with black kid leather in a sleek carmine leather sword belt with attached wooden scabbard.

Silas is overheard praising Aiden.

Carita allows Edward to escort her home so that the player can flop into bed.

Edward dumps a metal armor stand with crosspieces and spills its contents all over the floor.

Now finished at the door, Silas approaches Aiden... and returns the pretty pink bag with a sheepish smile.

Fergus hefts the other basket in one hand, and his bear figure in the other, glancing over to Marian. "Walk you home?"

Aiden turns toward Silas, with an exhausted look in his eyes, laughing at the sheepish smile, "Well. We did it." And now the mess to clean up....!