Valencia arrives, following Patrizio.

Lark has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Drake has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

The shrine of Gloria appears like it normally does. The only things that set it aside from any other day here is that there is a gathering crowd and a modest spread of drinks and snacks. The spread is toward the back of the shrine behind the benches and out of the way. The offerings consist of wine, water and ale to drink along with bread, hard cheese, cured meats and early summer fruits to eat. There doesn't appear to be any favors or decorations for this event.

Reese is here at the shrine, looking like she normally does as well in her pink and ivory. She did get all cleaned for the event and her silky curls are brushed and adorned with lots of pink ribbons. She has two swords, one at either hip. One of the swords is of house Grayson, the sword that the great Queen was known to carry into battle. Reese is kneeling at the shrine and quietly praying.

Preston walks into the shrine with Alessia, giving the Templar Disciple a bow of his head before he leaves her at one of the benches and moves up to the front of the Shrine. Preston is wearing his silk faithly clothes, with a knee-length set of buttoned robes - apparently summer is not the time for full armour and fur cloaks. Cinched at his waist, of course, is his sword belt and the two blades it bears, one plain and one ornate. As he reaches the front he touches Reese's shoulder and smiles before he looks around "Do you know who will speak for Grayson, your highness?"


Felix arrives a little ahead of time, and takes a place quietly alongst the benches. An apple lures Ralph over to sit underneath so he won't be stepped on, out of the way to keep him quiet. A little adjustment to get comfortable, though he's chosen a spot somewhat away from the majority, so that the smell of hot steel and burning coal that he brings with him isn't a plague upon their senses, and making no attempt to interrupt Reese's preparations.

Drake arrives at the shrine, and finds himself a seat. He's just here to wish his best to a good friend and to be as respectful as he can to the ceremony he's about to witness. He keeps quiet in observation as he finds a spot to sit. For once, he's not too eager to jump right to the food, but maybe after the proper ceremony.

Deva knows Reese is praying but she's gonna wave anyway. She settles on a bench and smiles pleasantly at the others gathering to observe the ceremony. It seems she got ready in a rush, because her hair is still damp and she's trying to fuss with the ends to smooth it all down.

Patrizio draws in from without, without his usual retinue, as if it might seem a bit gauche for him to be going about constantly with the sextet of soldiers who follow him, and without his usual glistening armour. But instead, he is accompanied by Valencia, the pair conversing quietly as they duck in from without, and quietly ease over to one side of the shrine, the prince's jade eyes turning towards the shrine proper.

Medeia arrives quietly and alone, giving Reese a bright smile of encouragement before finding a seat.

Amara, a not at all shady looking prodigal, Eos, A Malvici Shield bearer arrive, following Santi.

Alessia has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Reese lifts her gaze to Preston, giving the Grandmaster a gentle smile that brings her dimples and reaches her blue eyes. She gives Alessia a brief smile as well. She then nods. "I believe that Princess Liara said she will be able to attend." She says in hsi direction. She then waves to Deva with a warm dimpled smile, before waving to Medeia as well. She rises to to her slippered feet now.

Thea makes her way quietly inside. To support a close friend and family ally. She was even early! Seeing that she is praying, she scoots silently to one of the benches, finding her husband. Who somehow beat her here. "Hey,"she greets quietly as she sits.

Austere as ever, Lark arrives with her chin up and her spine steely. Any emotions the day might be stirring up in her are kept tightly bound, though a glance of regard is spared for Reese as she finds a place to sit.

Emma arrives, dressed smartly as always, gait composed and straight-backed, as always. She dips her head respectfully to Reese as well as any others who might look her way, though she takes care not to disturb any moments of quiet reverence. Then it's to a bench, where she takes a seat. One legs crosses over the other, and both hands lattice their fingers over her upmost knee. Her eyes, blue and crystal-sharp, turn their intense around the shrine as she notes who is present here.

Valencia arrives at the Prince of Pravus' side. A little breath as she enters the shrine and a smile for Reese, though not enough to draw the petite blonde warrior's attention away from her duties as she prepares for the ceremony. With a little look to Patrizio and another smile as she follows his lead and takes a seat, delicate hands resting neatly upon her lap as she observes with soft reverence as things unfold.

Liara's seated on a bench towards the front, dressed in Grayson's colours and, in rather a rare turn of events, and likely to signify the gravity of the occasion, she's worn the crown (not that one, the Crownlands one). When Reese answers Preston, Liara gives a little duck of her chin as if to indicate assent.

Sir Bhandn came to show his support as well! He's dressed in full armor for this occasion, but beyond the shifting of rubicund and leather, he makes little noise as he enters the shrine. He'll quietly pick a spot to sit down, swords peacebound and propped up against him. There's a small, enigmatic smile on his face when he looks at the Grayson Princess to be sworn in, but no other break to his stoicism resides in his features.

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

Arriving late was sometimes a boon, though it would seem that this was far from such an occasion one wished to arrive late for. Santi trying to not draw attention as he moves into the shrine. A glance given over the place before he is moving to sit near Thea and Drake having spotted the pair. The Malvici Lord's gaze looking to Reese before he leans in to murmur to Thea. "So.. not late then.. good."

Santi has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Patrizio has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Valencia has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Reese looks over the crowd and a pink warmth touches her cheeks. She seems flattered by the showing, having a gentle smile. Her blue eyes are bright. Reese seems to be in cheerful spirits. She has smiles for Valencia and Thea and a respecful nod for Liara. She then waves to Santi. Right no she is standing near the shrine of Gloria.

Jerome, a bodyguard, Elaine, an older courtier, Morgana, a proper secretary, 2 Valardin Knights arrive, following Isabeau.

Trying to slip in quietly, even though she's not good at being stealthy, Sorrel enters with a smile, glancing over Reese for a moment before trying to figure out where she ought to be sitting. She offers a little finger-wave to Reese, too, just in case she catches her eye.

Sorrel has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

A bit late, Isabeau attempts to slip in quietly as well, heading for a bench and shifting to slide into the one nearest Thea.

Isabeau has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Reese draws back her shoulders as if making sure she looks all pulled together. She has a smile for Sorrel.

Emma, upon noticing Sorrel's arrival, lifts a neat wave of greeting to the Wyrmguard. She's not beckoning the Bladesong over; just giving her a little wave to say hello. She places her hand back over her crossed knee afterwards, turning her attention towards Patrizio at the bench. She nods to him and to Valencia, polite and correct.

Arriving just a couple of minutes late is a Knight of Gloria himself: Alban Farshaw. He was apparently taking care of some last minute business, but is now in the crowd, towards the back, watching the ceremony play out.

"I will not keep everyone waiting then." Preston says to Reese, giving her a gentle bow of his head. Preston then lifts his voice so it can carry across the shrine "We are here in the Shrine of Gloria at the request of Princess Reese Grayson. Princess Reese has petitioned the Faith to join the ranks of the Godsworn. To do so is to remove herself from the bonds of her fealty, her responsibilities to her family and to no longer provide them succor ot shelter save as the Faith might provide to any other." Looking to Liara, Preston inclines his head "Who is here to speak for House Grayson?"

Raimon surveys those arriving from his seat on the sturdy pine wooden bench between Thea and Drake. His armor is highly polished for the occasion and his rugged facial hair is neatly trimmed. Never the hight of fashion, he knows his limits. But neatness counts. Raimon waves to Sorrel as she arrives and takes a seat at the sturdy pine wooden bench as well. Raimon then turns his usually-stoic attention back to the proceedings.

A smile's offered back to Emma when there's the inclination of her head - Patrizio too nods back, though far more warmly as if 'being formal' isn't much of a thought on the Pravusi prince's mind of being /so/ formal. But the jade eyes do turn back to Reese as he considers her while she's preparing herself for the ceremony, and then that gaze shifts instead to Preston at the words that float out over those assembled.

Reese keeps her attention upon Preston as the Grandmaster speaks, giving him a gentle smile. She then turns to Liara when Grayson is spoken about. Reese sucks in a soft breath and briefly touches the sword of Grayson at her side, suggesting to the more empathically aware that wasn't an easy choice for her. Still she seems quiet decided and lets her hand quickly drop.

Thea acknowledges Isabeau with subtle grin. "Duchess,"she hushedly murmurs. "Good to see you,"as her attention returns to the preparations.

Felix has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Ralph the wrecking messenger goat have been dismissed.

Collecting herself to her feet, Liara takes a step forward from the bench, her gloved hands clasped lightly together. She turns a warm smile towards Reese then, expression mellowing in some acknowledgement of the gravity of the situation, she offers an answer to Preston's question, "I, Princess Liara Grayson, speak for the Graysons."

Preston bows his head to Liara in thanks as she gives her answer "Thank you, your grace. Do you release Reese from the bonds of family, and the duty to carry on your line? Do you release your kin to the Faith, acknowledging her - among these witnesses - that her responsibility to the Graysons has ended, and she may take up the yoke of the Gods?"

Santi's focus turns to the proceedings as the ceremony begins, His gaze shifting between Preston and Reese before turning to Liara as Preston asks those questions of the Princess representing the Graysons. The Malvici Lord remaining silent and respectful of the ceremony.

In clear reply to Preston, words projected and intended to carry on across the shrine too, Liara says, "In love, I release Reese from her bonds and all responsibility to the Grayson line. May the Faith embrace her as a sister, as an aunt, and as a daughter, as we have."

Drake crosses his arms, and attempts to look stoic at all of this, though there is something about the speech he finds touching. To give up the bonds to one's family... well, it takes courage.

Felix has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

From where she sits, Lark briefly must avert her gaze when the releasing of vows begins. With birdlike precision, her dainty hand retrieves a kerchief of Grayson colors and dabs at the dry corner of her eye with it.

Medeia notes Isabeau and Alban's arrival, giving both a small wave of acknowledgment - which might double as an invitation to sit with her.

Patrizio is for the moment holding his tongue - as strange as that might well be, though again maybe not given the sanctity of the moment and his own devotion to Gloria - as his jade eyes watch the proceedings, listening to the words being spoken by each of the participants.

Emma's face reveals little of whatever emotions might be going on behind her piercing gaze, but the way her eyelids half-lower across her eyes bespeaks a certain thoughtfulness. She sits straight and entirely correct in her posture, head tilted lightly to one side as she continues to observe the ceremony.

"Thank you again, your Grace" Preston answers with another bow of his head, before his gaze returns to settle on Reese, a warm smile spreading "Please, step forward and kneel. There are none who would question your claim to the title of knight, you have sworn before Limerance and Gloria to hold to those values. So we will not need to knight you today, but. The Templar blade lost for centuries is with us and so old traditions returned" Preston draws out Crusader, but rather than making to touch it to Reese's shoulders he instead holds it in his hands and holds it out so Reese may place her hand on the blade "Crusader has always looked out for the innocent, and she knows enemy and friend to Gloria's cause. It seems right that you swear your oaths upon it." There is a pause as Preston clears his throat again.

"For those entering the Faith, there are oaths to be taken. For Gild, do you Reese swear to leave behind no wealth in your passing, save to the Faith itself? To support none as spouse or child might, but only through works of charity? For Limerance, do you freely devote yourself to the Gods and put these oaths you take tonight above all others? For the Sentinel do you swear to always seek the truth in the grace of the Gods?"

Alban smiles a little tightly as Liara releases Reese from her duties, but otherwise remains quiet in the back. Medeia's wave is given a slow nod, but he does not move to join her.

Reese returns Liara's warm smile with a gentle one of her own. She then looks upon Preston and then when Liara she speaks, her expression serious. "Thank you Princess Liara for releasing me and thank you for all the understanding and patience and honor you given me. I very much value Grayson and was blessed to be born to such a family and am blessed to be accepted now into the faith who I will honor as family." She then pauses for a moment. "I was so honored and blessed to carry the sword of Grayson, but as I am no longer family to the Graysons, I must return such. I know there is a great Grayson warrior just waiting to carry such." She says, unbuckling the sword of grayson that is still sheathed and then stepping toward Liara. She tries to gently hand such to her.

Reeese then hurries to knee before Preston the princess listening carefully to his words. It takes her a moment to answer, but when she does her voice is clear and lifted to carry well. "To Gild I promise in all things: no wealth shall be left. To Limerance I promise my heart and that none of mortal blood and flesh shall claim it otherwise. To the Sentinel I promise a clarity of mind and words and that no pursuit shall be met of my own interests, but only that of the divine."

Nodding his head along with Reese's words, doing his best to look encouraging, Preston waits for the moment to give the next section "For Gloria, do you swear to act with honour in all your dealings as a priest of the Pantheon? For Jayus, do you vow to always seek the inspiration of the Gods and let them colour your life? In Vellichor's name, will you preserve the history of the Compact and the Faith? And work tireless to unlock the ancient understanding of the Gods we once thought lost?"

For her part, Valencia watches in silence once the whispered welcomes are done and the ceremony begins. Lips pressing softly, she listens as the words are spoken that release Reese into the arms of her new family. Dark eyes dip a moment before lifting again to Preston speaks.

Reese is still upon her knees as she continues to take her vows. She looks to Preston as if listenign carefully to every word he says. The girl then nods. "To Gloria, I promise to behave as a living inspiration unto her in act and effort. To Jayus, I promise to open my eyes beyond the mundane and see the truth in all things. To Vellichor, I promise my life and spirit in protecting the knowledge of the ages, and returning what once we lost." She says in her clear, gentle voice that still carries well.

Trig, a large dog with an intense stare arrives, following Kace.

Accepting Elvesbane from Reese with a bow of her head and another warm smile, Liara wordlessly withdraws with the ancient sword, to quietly observe the ceremony as it continues, her smile lingering.

"As Petrichor grants dominion, do you, Reese, swear to uphold his ideals and enforce the traditions of Sanctuary to those granted it? To Mangata, do you pledge yourself to the waters, your ministry knowing no boundaries of land? And for Lagoma, do you swear to always be open to change?" Preston asks, that slight quickening of pace as the oaths move past the half way point and towards the final group of Gods.

Reese sucks in a soft breath as seh listens to Preston, suggesting to the more empathic that she is deeply considering his words. She is saying her vows upon the sword, gently touching such with a pink gloved hand. "To Petrichor, I promise to defend the tradition of Sanctuary with unending ferocity. To Mangata, I promise my trust in carrying the ministry abroad no matter the destination. To Lagoma, I promise an open mind and accepting heart." She says.

Fluffy, the wary wildcat have been dismissed.

2 Eswynd shieldbearers have been dismissed.

Loryk, a cocky but amiable reaver have been dismissed.

Klavdiya, who is definitely a handmaiden and not a reaver have been dismissed.

"Ah. We move on to the part that has joined - or rejoined - in recent years. The words that wer enot yet there for my own ceremony." Preston clears his throat again and asks "As the First Choice fought for our ability to choose, do you choose of your own free will and without reservation, to serve the Pantheon now, and to make that choice again, each day, until your time of passing? As the Queen of Endings shelters souls in the realms beyond, do you swear to shelter souls in the lands of the Compact, from their birth until their death? And in the name of the Dreamer, do you swear to serve the creations of Aion, and preserve the Dream Eternal?"

Reese is still kneeling and gently touching the sword. Her delicate chin is lifted, bringing golden curls and pink ribbons to fall back from her face. She speaks the next vows. "To the First Choice, I promise my defense of every soul's freedom to choose their path. To the Queen of Endings and Beginnings, I promise to protect the souls of every one of her children until they return to her care. To Aion, I promise to preserve the Dream in the face of any that would bring her creations harm."

Trig, a large dog with an intense stare leaves, following Kace.

There is a glance out to the benches before Preston takes a breath for the final part "One final vow remains, Reese. Tehom, the Reflection, requires of you a vow to channel your passions and not allow yourself to be ruled by them. Do you swear this will be true as well?"

Reese look surprised for a brief moment, but the girl is quick to nod. "In determination, I swear this will be true." She says just a bit more softly than the other vows.

"Well, having sworn, then this n ight the Faith welcomes Dame Reese as a sister and as one of the Godsworn. Please, sister, rise." Preston beckons to Reese to rise as he sheathes Crusader "The Templars welcome you to the order, as the Faith welcomes you. And I hope now everyone can join me in welcoming Dame Reese, Godsworn Holy Knight of the Temple of Gloria."

Reese rises to her slippered feet with the easy grace of a trained athlete. She smiles over to Preston, her dimples once again appearing appearing. "Thank you, Grandmaster Preston, I am honored and blessed to be part of the Templars." She says.

Felix stands with the ending of the ceremony with a short round of applause, a quirked grin present. Waiting for his turn to slip forward and offer his welcome and congratulations.

Drake nods his head, and then, as Reese rises with her new title, claps a few times in appreciation.

Seeing other people clap, Thea does the same, though it's short and not as loud. She looks proud of her friend, the smile on her face genuine.

Santi is silent and respectful, The man watching as those vows are given by Reese swearing herself to serve the faith and the Templars. The Malvici Lord's dark gaze settling upon Reese with a look of deep respect. As she raises up and after she gives her thanks Santi's hands come together clapping loudly for the new godsworn.

Felix has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Ralph the wrecking messenger goat leaves, following Felix.

Raimon is among the first to rise and he applauds, with unashamed enthusiasm, until the applause stops. Raimon seems 100 percent all for GodSwearing as a concept, and in its instantiation

No hesitation from Patrizio when there's the declaration of welcoming of Reese to the order, rising from his place on the bench to applaud briefly. The smile that lingers on his features is sincere and warm, considering her there before everyone, though he seems to be hanging back for a moment or two, as if waiting for a moment before a chance to come forward to offer his congratulations.

Reese is overheard praising Preston.

Reese is overheard praising Liara.

Alessia is overheard praising Reese.

Reese is overheard praising Felix.

Alessia is overheard praising Preston.

Thea is overheard praising Reese.

Large dark eyes drift between pride, joy and just a hint of sorrow as a wave of emotion seems to slips over Valencia's features. An affectionate smile does find the little vixen's lips, however, as she rises to welcome Gloria's newly minted Godsworn Holy Knight with heartfelt applause.

Sorrel is overheard praising Reese.

Isabeau raises her own hands in front of her, clapping fingertips to her wrist, genteel and polite. She smiles demurely as she picks herself up to her feet.

Santi is overheard praising Reese.

Sorrel is overheard praising Preston.

Santi is overheard praising Reese.

Isabeau is overheard praising Reese.

Drake is overheard praising Reese.

Lark is still holding her kerchief, so her claps are partially muffled, but they're no less present. She only stops briefly to dab under her eye, again.

Lark is overheard praising Reese.

Finding her feet once more, Liara offers some brisk applause for Reese, although no words this time, just a renewed smile.

Sorrel claps enthusiastically in honor of the new Godsworn, smiling happily for Reese, warm and cheerful.

Trig, a large dog with an intense stare arrives, following Kace.

Reese has one of her smiles for those here. "Thank you everyone. I a look forward to being a knight of the faith and I hope to help protect you all when it is needed. Although I also hope that such is not needed." She says, sounding a little less formal now. She tripped over her words a bit there. Her own golden lashes are a bit damp, but her cheeks are pink and her blue eyes are bright. "I appreciate you all for coming."

Emma lifts her hands from their finger-latticed resting place on her knees, and stands without hurry. Polite applause is offered as is appropriate for this auspicious occasion. Her blue gaze is still piercing, even when her eyes are half-lidded and relaxed, but it can't be said that she looks ill-tempered or sullen. She seems thoughtful, if anything.

Preston gestures towards the various tables and such set up "Please, everyone. There is food and drink, and a chance to talk and celebrate. And I am sure Dame Reese will be happy to answer all the many questions everyone in the city I am sure will have for her."

Valencia is overheard praising Reese: Sweetest friend, you honour us with your devotion.

Raimon has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Zephyr leaves, following Raimon.

Zephyr arrives, following Raimon.

Rising from the bench, Alessia claps for Reese with a warm smile. "I wish you luck on your journey, Dame Reese. Wonderful service, Sir Preston." She nods to him. "You're a natural." She walks over to say something more quietly.

With a warm smile, Medeia joins in the applause for the newest Templar. She approaches the woman when there is a chance and shares something quietly with her before giving one of her hands a squeeze and slipping out of the shrine.

Fluffy, the wary wildcat, 2 Eswynd shieldbearers, Loryk, a cocky but amiable reaver, Klavdiya, who is definitely a handmaiden and not a reaver leave, following Medeia.

Drake gets up from the bench, as well. He walks toward Reese first, though there's probably a recieving line to congratulate her. He simply wants to be one among that number. "Congratulations to you. It was a very elegant ceremony."

Reese smiles over to Drake and even tries to hug the Lord if allowed. "Thank you for coming Lord Drake. I am sure we will speak soon."

Moving nearer to Reese, Liara offers some words, a hand lowered to indicate the sword. "There is no more storied a weapon in existence than Elvesbane, and you have added most commendably to that legacy. Thank you for that and for all that you have done, and I wish you all the very best with what you will continue to do."

\Raimon rises up from the bench and makes his own way over to offer congratulations to the Newly GodSword Reese. A patient man, he waits amiably while those both literally and metaphorically closer to the GodSworn make their own approaches. Raimon waits, his face characteristic in its impassivity, yet his eyes alight with subtle joy.

After a few dignified goodbyes are given to those around her, Emma departs from the scene!

Raising up from the bench Santi like many of the others moves to stand off to the side waiting to be able to congratulate Reese on her godswearing. The man seeming content to stay back and wait his chance.

Emma has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

2 Valardin Knights leaves, following Emma.

Santi has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Reese looks upon Liara. "I was so honored to carry it Princess Liara. But I know there are Graysons who are worthy of such and well...thank you as well. You had faith in me an raised me up." She murmurs. She then smiles over to Raimon and then to Santi. She tries to hug him as well.

Thea steps not too far behind Drake. There's a smile there for Reese, telling her too. "Congratulations Reese. You look sincerely happy and I'm happy for you,"she tells her. Thea waited her turn, right? Looking around, she sure hopes so.

Reese smiles over to Thea. "I am happy about his, Lady Thea." she murmurs softly. "Thank you for coming." She adds and attempts to give Thea a brief hug if allowed.

Patrizio comes forward with Valencia after waiting those few moments, drawing forward to where Reese and Preston are standing towards the front, and there's a dip of his head respectfully. "A lovely ceremony, truly," says he to Preston, the smile dimming slightly upon his features, before it comes back full force for Reese. "Congratulations. I know that you'll do them absolutely proud." There's the /slightest/ hint, perhaps, that the Pravusi prince isn't /quite/ sure what to say at this very moment.

Alban joins in the applause, and then starts over towards Reese as the ceremony ends, "Congratulations to you Dame Reese, I look forward to our continued service together," he says after she has finished speaking with Liara. He then nods to the Grayson Princess, adding, "I hope you are well, Princess, and that you are able to find a good arm for that sword. It is a magnificent one."

Valencia, too, moves to congratulate Reese, her dark eyes glowing softly. Stepping forward upon her turn she offers a warm hug and a soft whisper, "I'm so happy for you. So proud. And so very much looking forward to all that you will do upon our new journey. Always know that my Hart and I are here for you, whatever may come. Congratulations, my dearest friend."

Reese looks over to Patrizio. "Thank you cousin. I will do my very best in that regard." She murmurs. She then turn to Alban with a smile. "I am sure we will have many adventures together." She then turns to Valencia, returning her hug. "Thank you, Princess Valencia."