Pasquale has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

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

6 Grayson House Guards, Jordan, apologetic Gentleman of the Chamber, Jaenelle arrive, following Noah.

Fajra arrives, following Lianne.

Siri, an attentive apprentice, Paris, a charming mercenary, 2 Redoubt Buccaneers, Lianne arrive, following Apollo.

Anisha is the Night - or so she'd probably tell you. Darkest Umbra clings to her curvaceous shape, showing off shapely limb and soft frame. Wearing star iron and mirrorsilver, and more. Gleaming gems and twinkling threads in praseodymium and neodymium. The Radiant of Whisper House moves with casual grace, arm wrapped around Mihaly's elbow, apparently being escorted - or escorting - the Lord Riven for tonight. She pauses at the entrance, taking in the room, and the people already arrived, offering a gentle smile.

"Well, my lord. I am not your wife, but I hope that I will provide you pleasant company tonight. Shall we say hello to the hostess and reacquaint ourselves with familiar faces?"

6 Ivory Shields arrives, following Graziella.

The Celestial Ball is afoot! The room is decorated in all of its celestial mightiness, and there are desserts galore with a celestial theme. Tables are pushed back to leave room for dancing, and there are musicians in the far corner, playing something light and airy and reminiscent of the full swing of the summer warmth. Tall flutes of Igniseri wines are being passed around, and nestled in a barrel, for all to see, are bottles of the latest vintage to come out of Granato, the first after a years long dry spell of producing anything new. The kind of wine? A light, fruity, peachy delight, which seems free for the taking. One per person.

The hostess, Marquessa Quenia Igniseri, is standing near to the door, greeting guests as they come through the door. She's all smiles and warmth, and outside of a few faint dark lines under her eyes, which might only be a trick of the lighting of the room, she looks to be in good spirits. She's dressed in some Caprice originals, a gown of duskweave with a starlight pattern fitted all over it. She lets the outfit speak for itself, without any other embellishment upon her form.

"Do please be welcome at Domus Igniseri," she greets each guest. "There's finger foods and desserts, fine wines, and dancing. And, even a prize or two for those who've come tonight. Maybe even three or four," she remarks with an air of excitement. She also might be keeping a look out for the person who may or may not have ended up for her date this evening.

Jerome, a bodyguard, 2 Valardin Knights arrive, following Isabeau.

Anisha gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Aconite arrives to the ball by herself. Her entire umbra outfit spangled in glittering stones. She smiles wide as she drifts in, chin lifted aloft to soak in everything about the decor. She pauses to get herself a glass of wine to keep her company as she sweeps around the room as id to take in the ambience form every angle or perhaps just giving her a reason to head deeper into the room and watch who enters.

Drake gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Graziella takes an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Malcolm's there - just in the peripheral, and he's quick to step up to Quenia's left side, offering her a boyish grin. "You outdid yourself, Marquessa. It all looks pretty magical."

Carissa, a Southport bodyguard, Planchet the Lycene maggiordome arrive, following Eirene.

Edmund, Paxton the Party Pigeon arrive, following Bridget.

Dressing to the theme of the party? That isn't Xanthe. She put on whatever she felt like putting on. That is how the Igniseri Champion works. Her expression is indifferent as she moves to find the least crowded spot. Quenia gets a grin, though, and a blown kiss. To note, despite her coldness Xanthe carries herself in a way that makes it clear she is a Champion. It is showy and all that. Those already present get a half bow but no vocal greeting. She might be distant but something about her makes her seem relatively approachable.

Wash arrives with Emberly on his arm. Thirteen stars made of glass twinkle over his head. He is draped in umbra, a dark evening preceding Emberly's summer sunrise. Fittingly, the dawnstone at Emberly's neck is the centerpiece of their display, and, Wash knows enough about aethetics to pose and wait for everyone to take in the view before proceeding into the room.

Giorgio gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Raja arrives amongst the crowds. She is clad in a revealing duskweave corset and midi skirt, a sparkling mirrorsilver and sapphire necklace upon her neck and a lovely scent that wafts around her. It would seem the Culler woman can dress up nicely should the occasion call for it. She pauses just inside the door, stepping tot he side to allow others behind her ease of entering the beautiful room. Dark eyes scan the interior, looking for familiar faces.

Xanthe has joined the a group of Scarlet and Cobalt pillows.

There are honestly few things Mihaly Riven is known for, none of which are of any real renown other than simply being a knight. A lifelong knight at that. So it might be odd that the senior of the Riven family is not dressed in armor, a fact that is likely rare outside of the home. But what also the man is known for is stargazing, considering himself an expert in the field of astronomy. Or at least, that's what he likes to tell himself, as the Aionic frock coat that he's never actually worn before would suggest. And yes indeed, he with Anisha. "You are not my wife, Radiant Anisha, but, it is an honor all the same to escort you tonight. Thank you for giving this old man the opportunity to look far better than he actually is. I'm sure Eirene would be pleased to see us were she here. I will simply hope that whatever business the Guild is keeping for will survive her...annoyance at not being here." He nods, then. "Definitely, I've been waiting for this ball for weeks."

Apollo arrives escorting Marquess Lianne Malespero. Some habits, it seems, are too well-enjoyed to quit, the erstwhile Whisper perhaps inclined to describe such escort as 'hardly working'. He's dressed curiously in wrap pants that, with their considerable volume and vivid color, contrast well with the dark and trim-cut jacket - though they undoubtedly go together. Inspiration in a sea of stars, perhaps, and when he leans in to murmur something to Lianne, the color catches in all the glass and silver she wears. He looks happy.

Caprice gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Drake hasn't been to a ball in some time. The last major party he can remember well was his own wedding, and things since then have felt like a blur. Here he is now escorting Thea, now his wife, and Countess as well. Drake has not gotten used to a different title and keeps wanting to correct people, even when his entrance is announced. He's wearing black and shimmering black, the shirt of duskweave shimmering enough to be showy, but not a color that detracts from what the woman on his arm is wearing. Drake is still wearing a glove that covers one hand as it seems his hand was burned and he's careful about it, though he's not as delicate with it as he's been in the past.

Savio is here! He is not alone, escorted into the beautiful, celestial event space on the arm of Lord Orland Amadeo. Savio's thoroughly dressed for a ball, wearing a floor-length duskweave gown with gauzy trailing sleeves and a dramatic cutaway back. Little specks of mirror silver throughout catch the light like stars. The piece is definitely tailored for a man, but it's also definitely a gown.

This being the first Arvani ball he has had the pleasure of attending, Savio enters looking around with great curiosity, a breath indrawn a little at it all! "Oh, Orland, look at this, all the beautiful things, all the beautiful people that are already here. How spectacular is this?" Anisha and Aconite, Lianne and Apollo he knows, and they are given a smile, and a bit of a wave.

Jamie Greenmarch, a man not often seen within the city, arrives with a red-haired, vivacious woman, a Princess Kace Redrain, on his arm. The two are dressed to match, with Kace's dark blue seasilk gown contrasting sharply with his own lighter colored linens and cottons, colored in warm pastels of pink, orange and red. The two likely representing the evening's turn to the first break of dawn. The pair stop at the hostess and introduce themselves, two nobles newly arrived in the city, from the distant West and North.

Perhaps Marquis Giorgio Proscipi is meant to be the sun or some other star hanging in the heavens, given the brilliant pyran fireweave coat that he wears overtop other fine fabrics. Despite the ill news that has made its way gradually northward from Tremorus following the war in the south, Giorgio carries himself regally with his head held high and his shoulders squared. Stepping into the ball, he pauses for but a moment before making his way past Marquessa Quenia. Sweeping into a bow, Giorgio says, "A beautiful event you have planned here, Marquessa. Thank you for doing this. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an evening away from other duties."

Raja gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

It takes a moment for Zoey to convince her guards to wait outside the hall, but once she succeeds she enters alone. Her indigo honeysilk shimmers with golden light that seems to radiate from the moon applique on her bodice. Like the hostess, there is a slight darkening around her eyes, but it does nothing to dim the brightness of her smile as she takes it all in. After a quick visit to the nearest table for a glass of wine, she looks around and decides on a place to engage in conversation.

Arriving with a small retinue of guards, Isabeau steps in on tall heels, adorned in a form-fitting garnet gown touched with silver moons. Her hair has been neatly arranged and piled with glittering garnet stars woven through her dark golden curls. She is not accompanied by any but her retinue, though the presence and composure of the woman makes that is comfortable wherever she is. A natural demure smile curves her lips, not falling from her romantically beautiful features.

The spidersilk and star iron clad Grand Duchess of the Lyceum enters the Great Hall on the arm of Prince Noah Grayson, Jaenelle leading the pair towards Quenia before anything further to offer the hostess a warm smile and polite dip of her head. "Marquessa" she greets, "it has been some time since I got to enjoy an evening without hosting it myself. Thank you for opening your doors this evening. Have you met Prince Noah Grayson?" she wonders, doing the introductions if she hadn't. She knows that Quenia has a line, so she does not linger after the few shared words are given, allowing Quenia to resume her duties.

Caprice comes alone - no, no, she's accompanied by a beautiful bottle of wine, courtesy of House Igniseri. Delighted by the souvenir, the sunrise silk-draped woman slips deeper into the great hall, seeking a perch from which to enjoy the sights - the decor, the newly-arriving celestial bodies as they orbit the space, meeting and greeting... The newly-minted Guildmaster allows herself a pleased smile, finishing a first round of visual wandering before seeking the hostess's whereabouts.

Jamie gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Pasquale arrived early enough to avoid the crush and stake out a claim to one part of the couches. He's sat there now, quietly watching the various people join the ball, whilst slowly finishing off a glass of pale wine.

Orland was like a proud peacock, honestly, every step drawn with a fixed determination of confidence, even a proud little grin showing on his face. This is the first instance that Lord and Lord could officially attend a party /together/ and to be damned with he peerage and their opinions. It matters not to the Amadeo, clearly, who is enjoying the opportunity to escort Lord Savio to his first ball! They were like stars, shining in the black of night. From the twilight details flowing over Savio's gown, to the golden celestial accents on Orland's vest, they were shining! The Amadeo looks over to Savio, a small laugh catching him, "Yes, there's a lot to look at but ... my eyes are only for you. I promised you dancing, so you best have come ready to dance!" He looks around at the other familiar faces, "This is certainly a sky full of stars tonight!"

Thea comes at the arm of Drake, dressed in umbra and duskweave. The colors standing out against the tan of her skin. Looking up at Drake, she smiles a moment, still looking a bit---unaccustomed to the new tilte as well. "We should go greet the hostess,"she says, nodding toward Quenia. "And I'm fairly sure there's more than enough people we'll know,"trying to ease them both. But first--a drink.

Princess Graziella Pravus arrives this evening in a kaftan style dress of Eurusi influence, the unique silhouette is flattering and formless in equal measure. Modest and alluring, a cape has been fused into the design and honeysilk catches the light in a series of tiny glittering pinpoints that harken to the heavens. Oh her face are a pair of round copper spectacles with dark blue stained glass lenses that all but swallow her eyes from sight in their spacey depths. She moves quietly through the room without anyone on her arm or any entourage of friends to accompany her this evening, the flowing cut of her dress kicks up playfully around her feet as she were skipping through clouds.

Thea has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Savio has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Noah strides forwards with all the confidence of a man that acts like he owns everything he sees. The man is dressed in umbra and is clearly the night. His blue eyes move over the room with a practiced ease. He glances at Jaenelle when she speaks and then looks at Quenia. A pause. Then something that almost looks painful before he curves his lips into a smirk. A nod of his head in greeting to her.

Malcolm offers a friendly wave to the Champion, Xanthe, on account of being a fan of the Champions on the whole. Then, offering bows to the entering Lord Wash - and Lady Emberly, "Looking well, Lord Kennex - Lady Crovane." He looks very impressed with all of the outfits, commenting, "Lady Kennex. Lord and Lady Riven." Offering nods and more respectful bows, "Lord Darkwater. Marquessa Malespero." A nod for Raja Culler, friendly despite the unfamiliar face. But, he does recognize the next pair, "Count and Countess Wyvernheart." The Shepherd Duke pauses for a big - big breath, and continues.

Aco spots Savio's greeting and beams his way, lifting a long fingered hand to wiggle his direction as she makes her way to find a place to settle and ends up sitting on the couches with the pale embroidery. She casts a cheerful smile Pasquale's way and a soft greeting but her eyes are all for the shimmering fabrics and dramatic outfits making their way through the door.

Aconite has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Savio has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Zoey has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Drake has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Whatever Physicians Guild business she was supposed to be on was likely told to fuck off so she could spend the night with her star-loving husband. So Eirene enters in umbra with glittering silver thread, and platinum jewelry studded with star-like diamonds. The cut away at the bust is comet-like, with a tail descending towards her navel in Lycene daring style. Seeing two of her favorite people together, Mihaly and Anisha, she proudly struts on her stilettos to join them.

Raja watches as people enter, some people that are familiar cause the dark-skinned woman to smile while others that are familiar get a dubious once-over. Though it is Zoey that gets her attention and she shifts through the crowds, walking with grace and confidence as she makes her way to the Kennex woman. "Lady Zoey." She greets. I am glad to see you." Then her dark gaze shifts to regard Thea and Drake, "Oh! I am glad to see you both out! It's been a while!" She says the last part mostly to Thea.

Raja has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Lianne's heavenly attire is far more muted than her companion's, absent color entirely, save for the duskstone pendant set against her sternum. Still, she clearly meets the theme, little bits of glass stitched expertly to the silk to catch the light and glitter like stars against skin. She smiles brightly when her attention catches on that wave from Savio in his remarkable gown, eyes alight with a hint of wonder, but there's no reciprocal gesture, her attention snagged by Apollo's words. He's given a sidelong look, a stern loft of her brows, an a teasing murmur of, "Let's hope." Catching her name, she turns that effortless smile toward, "Duke Malcolm," with a low dip of her head. Her attention pans the room, so many fondly familiar places, a quiet question, then, posed to her escort.

Edmund have been dismissed.

Graziella has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Finally, a doorway that can accommodate her her ridiculously oversized, cone hat... almost. Bridget still had to duck when she came through the door, to avoid knocking the tall, silly hat from her head. The rest of her outfit was just as impractical and ridiculous, as she wore a dress with absurdly long, dangling sleeves and somewhat exaggerated, pointy flats on her feet. The only sensible portion of her outfit was her wedding ring, which she still wore as a widow.

"Duchess Telmar, good evening. Archduchess Velenosa, your Grace. Prince Grayson." More bows, now, more waving. One for Caprice, and one for Thea and a bow for Lord Malespero now. Then Lord Amadeo and Lord Proscipi -- and Malcolm notes the Marquis Proscipi, he thinks, and makes an hum of admiration for the fireweave coat. Princess Pravus gets another bow, Aconite gets a warm smile.

Lianne mutters, "Shall we ... on toward the obvious point ... fascination, ... our ... ... test your footing, ..."

Clowder of nine 1-year old cats, Shekies arrive, following Zakhar.

Carissa, a Southport bodyguard have been dismissed.

Jamie wanders through the crowd, introducing himself and his companion in the small throngs of people as they start to gather in particular places along the great hall. The Western Lord, in his linens and cottons, looks decidedly out of place amid the much more elegantly and extravagantly dressed nobility around him, he murmers to his companion, Kace, "I'm hoping you see someone you know, Princess. I'm afraid this isn't my usual kind of affair. Just point me in the direction you want us to go." He man's quiet baritone still rumbles in his chest as he tips his head in a bit of a nod to someone else passing by.

Drake smiles to Raja, and nods. "Yes, I suppose it has." He's mostly letting Thea choose the destination right now, but one of those destinations is drinks, so he's all in favor of that, getting himself some wine. He's already people-watching, looking around at outfits - particularly on the women, as he's married but he's still Drake - before resting eyes on Zoey at the couches.

Wash crosses the room to Malcolm and inclines his head. "Thank you my Lord." Wash greets the Duke. "Cohosting with the Marquessa? That's nice to see."

More familiar faces! Giorgio, Zoey, Graziella, all get a little wave from Savio, though most of his attention is focused on Orland, and he seems pleased to go wherever the Amadeo lord happens to lead him. He's overwhelmed, but with wonder, impressed at all he sees. "They talk about this kind of event, the Arvani ball, in other far-away places. I didn't think I would ever be at one, truth be told." He tilts a smile Orland's way, brows lifted a little as he reminds his partner in that weird lilting Saffron accent, "You did promise me there would be dancing."

The wave from Malcolm draws Xanthe's eyes and her fingers lift to wriggle back at him in a responding greeting.Outside Quenia and Caprice, Xanthe doesn't show an expression of knowing anyone. So, she continues to linger in her little spot waiting.

Apollo is... caught, a little, on Savio, the drama of his gown. Enough so that Lianne's murmur gets a distracted, "Mm?" before he collects his wits, blinks at her, and laughs a moment. "If you /don't mind/," he says, in the waning wash of that laughter. "Rude to stare without paying compliments, mm?" He covers the hand in the crook of his elbow with his own, tipping close as he leads Lianne toward Savio, just so he can murmur something more.

"Yes, milord," Malcolm asides to Wash with a goofball grin, flashing teeth. Then, he looks down at his empty hands, considering the reasons why he doesn't have a drink. "Said to myself - SELF, know what you need to do? Try not to act like an utter fool in public once. Haven't picked my teeth but the once, after I ate a thing, but - not a single person saw that - I think. Think no one did, at least, and I did promise to amuse Marquessa Quenia in a good way --"

Apollo mutters, "He thinks he ... ... with ... ..."

Thea looks up after finally getting a seat and drink. "Raja, hey,"she greets. "It has. How are you feeling? We need to fix that not seeing eachother, honest." Seeing Malcolm, Thea waves to her patron, giving him a wave. "Auntie Eirene, Uncle Mihaly." Is he really her uncle. Nah. But hey--semantics. "Messere Caprice, Lord Apollo, Lord Wash--Lady Zoey,"Thea finds herself greeting with a smile as well."

It has been some time since the Red Princess has seen any parties this big, preferring the quieter bouts of life. This evening, she accompanies Jamie, an arm hooking unto his and a delicate hand resting on his forearm. She smiles as she passes the hostess, "Well, it seems were out of luck, because I know not many. I have many cousins, however none are here. " she nods and then goes along with Jamie to where ever they may go. Most likely somewhere quiet. Trig, the large wolf-like dog, was happily following them along on his most best behavior, adorned with a blue collar studded with brilliant silver stars to match Kace's dress. "Thank you for being my escort and companion for the night though. Perhaps someone might show up we both know and then we'll be saved." she mutters softly and then chuckles at that.

Zoey lifts a hand and flutters her fingers toward Savio. There is a bit of a nod that could be interpreted as an invitation to join them before her attention returns to the conversation.

Graziella sends a polite little fingerwave in Savio's direction and then she meanders her way over to take a seat not far from Aconite on the couch.

Orland watches the little waves from Savio, upnodding to whoever turns the wave back to Savio, as if not to be impolite himself. He does notice Apollo over there with Lianne, and maybe he saw Graziella too! And Pasquale! Well whatever the case is, he grabs Savio's hand and starts to pull him toward the dancing floor, "We'll be the first to dance while everyone is boring and introduces each other." He is so CYNICAL. Then he spots Apollo coming their way and notes, "Excuse me my Lord, I'm about to take Lord Savio for a dance." He winks and then puts his hand out to guide Savio out to the floor. "This is the Arvum style, Lord Savio....." And Orland flourishes into a bow as he asks, "May I have the first dance?"

"Duke Shepherd," Jaenelle shifts to look towards the man, another incline of her head given in his direction. "You are well, and yours are well? Please give Duchess Delilah my best, and let her know that I am still very much looking forward to hearing back from her regarding the journal that was sent to her to investigation. I am sure whatever comes from it will be as exciting as the stone turned out to be. Do you know Prince Noah Grayson?" because she is such a great date, she needs to make sure. Though Noah is far from shy about telling everyone who he is anyway.

Anisha is not the wife of Lord Mihaly Riven - but when Eirene arrives, she brightens nonetheless, offering the woman a brief embrace and a kiss on the cheek. "Oh, you did make it," She offers, delighted. "I guess I am escorting both of you, then," She concludes, and if allowed, she'll certainly have a Riven on either arm. Wiggling her fingers in greeting with a smile for Savio and Orland, and for Aconite. A small curtsey of respect to Lianne and Apollo, and another for Giorgio. She beams bright to Caprice - and offers a smile to Thea and Drake, casually forming a mental list of people to speak to - which is certain to include everyone named and then some. Wiggles of her fingers to Graziella and Raja as well, and a bright smile to Bridget. There's a lot. "Where are we going?" She inquires with the married couple.

Quenia gives a grim to Malcolm as he not only steps up, but compliments her at the same time. "Thank you," she tells the Duke of Shepherd. "I felt it was time to have a party once more in House Igniseri. It's been much too long since we held something, and even longer since we released a new wine. We were due."

Quenia notices Xanthe's entrance, grin, and blown kiss and blows one back to her cousin, waving her through with crowd. She sees some folk she recognizes, eyes going instantly to Wash and Emberly. "Lady Emberly!" she calls out. "I'm so glad you managed to find an escort! You were beat out by Duke Malcolm," she confides. "I'm sure he'll provide ample entertainment for me this evening," she adds with a bit of an impish wink. To Wash, she notes, "Lord Wash. As always, it is ever pleasant to see you. I promise, I do, I really really do, I will not make you tell stories this evening," she harkens back to her tradition of asking Wash for some fine Igniseri entertainment at her dinners.

Quenia turns her attention next to Giorgio Proscipi, who approaches her. She dips her head in response to him. "It is, indeed," she notes to his comment about an evening away from other duties. "I feel as though I've been preparing for the defense of Igniseri and the Compact for so long that I fear I forgot how to have fun. Tonight is meant to remember what fun is," she tells him confidentially.

Then there is Jaenelle addressing her. She offers a respectful curtsey to the Archduchess and the Prince. "You are quite welcome. I felt it was time for some gaiety here," she confides, before giving Noah a brief glance. "I think we may have met briefly, once. But not formally," she inclines her head to the prince in greeting. She doesn't remark upon how that meeting almost might have ended up with champions called.

Mihaly was just about to offer a greeting to Malcolm, to be polite of course, when he lifts a brow at him. "Lady Riven? Oh no, this is Radiant Anisah with me tonight, Eirene wasn't able to," and then he sees that the Malcolm is looking behind him and the Radiant, causing him to turn and look past his shoulder. "...Eirene?" he doesn't quite gape, but his mouth does drop, likely because the number of times he's seen his wife in a dress he can count on one hand. "You...you're.." He clears his throat. "Ahem. You're here." it's definitely said with a tone of both surprise and joy.

Some commotion from outside of the hall is followed by Zakhar entering with Shekies on his shoulder and the clowder of cats all scampering for the closest place to hide from the guards that are shouting at the old man about the cats needing to stay outside. A two finger salute is given to the upset guards as Zakhar then turns around and relights the cigar tucked into his lip. Dressed in mostly black silk and leather with a vest that has a couple of extra attachments to it. (yes, the frying pay is hooked to the rear of the vest.) Orland is given a grin and a nod when spotted, then as he sees Savio he walks over with arms held out, "Now dat is a gown!"

Shekies appears to be having none of the excitement that her siblings are and is trying to tuck into staying perched upon Zakhar's shoulders.

Raja smiles to Thea, "We do have to spend more time together. Though, I have been keeping busy." Her gaze shifts to Drake, "I am sure yo are keeping busy as well. Congratulations on your marriage! I hope it brings many children and a lot of bliss!"

Eirene has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Anisha has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Mihaly has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Kace gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

"If I become loqacious Marquessa, I give you permission to throw something at me." Wash promises Quenia. He fetches a drink. "I am... well I'm not sober, but I've had enough to drink in the past two months for at least a year."

Noah leans in to brush his lips down (so very very down) to Jaenelle's ear to whisper something. Then his arm drops more to around her waist, but it's a protective gesture as he shifts his form. It's clear he's protecting her back as they move through people and greetings. Noah nods his head a bit towards Malcolm. He glances back towards Quenia. "It is most interesting to see you again. I am sure this shall be a wonderful party." It's a low sort of tone but he allows a smirk of a smile. Then back towards Malcolm.

"Overdue, and it's the times of peace that give us the proper opportunity to take ourselves less seriously for a couple of hours --" Malcolm agrees, offering Quenia a smile, then toward Jaenelle - eyebrows furrowing - because the subject is an unknown. But, he manages: "Aye, your Grace, I'll let the Duchess Shepherd know that you send her regards -- and such." A blink, glancing back, "Now's when we get wine to wet our whistles 'cause being a host is thirsty work."

Apollo has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Lianne has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

After a time surveying the crowds, Isabeau's cobalt blue eyes settle on Quenia, and she steps over with a gentle dip of her head in greeting, "A lively party, Marquessa. And nice to see you again, it's been too long." A pleasant smile touches the blond's lips as offers, by way of a rather sincere compliment, "What a lovely outfit, my Lady." She extends her smile to Malcolm as well, "Duke Shepherd. Bijou was such a delightful surprise, thank you."

Zakhar has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Emberly had been somewhere getting a drink, she looks about as she twirls a little in her gown, she smiles to Wash, as she inches closer to where he was at, "can I throw something at you?" she asks with a smile

"Indeed... I can quite assuredly say that I know what you mean after the war in the south," Giorgio says to Quenia with a smile and another respectful dip of his head. And then his brother is entering with Orland. "Ahhh, Savio. Fancy seeing you here," he says with a wink toward his brother. Anisha's curtsey is returned with a flourishing bow from the Marquis before his eyes shift outward, clearly seeking a less crowded place to hover than right beside the door.

Eirene greets Malcom and Quenia with a half-spin. Taa-daa, she says with a grin. "Duke Marquessa. I ended up clearing my schedule to make this. Couldn't leave my dearest ones alone," she says, before she joins Mihaly and Anisha. Exchanging sweet pleasantries with the Whisper, and then giving her husband a sheepish grin. "I made it, surprise..."

Drake looks up as Anisha and Mihaly come close by, giving an upnod to them both. He has yet to start on his wine, so he takes a long sip of it. Being a delicate drink, this doesn't hit him particularly hard, but there's a whole night ahead.

Jamie has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Lianne issues an airy, "Mm," which probably qualifies as agreement for Apollo's suggestion. She surely doesn't seem the least little bit bothered by the direction they've found. His whispered words, though, inspire her expression to soften, her gaze to turn toward him more directly as she murmurs something quiet back in kind. When her focus turns outward once more, there are smiles for others, for Anisha and Eirene, for Pasquale and Aconite, Jaenelle and Caprice, but her trajectory is someone else's to dictate at the moment, and she's entirely alright with this.

Kace has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Aconite lifts her fingers in a wave of greeting to Lianne and Apollo as well, Radiant Anisha also given a dazzling smile but it's so hard for Aconite to focus on the faces when there's just so much shiny on display. Her dark eyes are huge but she is drawn away from the celestial swirl as another body joins the Malespero Lord and herself.

Giorgio has joined the marin'alfar wooden bench.

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

Thea clears her throat at Raja. "I think we have a ways to go before children. I hope,"as her eyes drift to Jaenelle. "Your Grace. How are you,"a grin appearing as she makes room for Anisha, Mihaly and Eirene. "I think Eirene decided to surprise you,"Thea mentions to Mihaly. Then she's finding Aconite and gretting her as well.

A golden-eyed woman in a black silk gown embellished with crystal beads quietly enters the great hall, smiling brightly at the many beautifully dressed people. Kethry eases into the crowd, quick to find a drink and have it in hand as she slips past singular folk and deeper into the throng.

Pasquale watches Savio and Orland dancing for a few moments before casting a return smile over towards Lianne. His attention soon goes back to the others seated near him as he continues some quiet conversation.

"I don't know." Wash says, reaching out to test Emberly's bicep. "The Marquessa has reason not to maim me, meanwhile, you're a Crovane, which means you probably earn points if you knock me out."

Savio laughs quietly as Zakhar greets him with praise and arms outstretched. "Zak. Hello. Thank you," Savio replies, not normally a blusher, but some color in his cheeks for the compliment. "It's a lovely party, no?"

A lovely party... with dancing! Dancing and this handsome person bowing to him and inviting him to dance! Ah, it's like a fairy story, a pleasant bit of lightness and hope after recent experiences that have been largely defined lately by darkness.

"Yes, you may have the first dance." Savio smiles, and reaches out for Orland, to step into his lead. Ballroom! Dancing!

Emberly smiles as she looks over to Lianne she touches her own dawnstone necklace, "ooh I love your duskstone, its so contrast to mine" she says as she looks over to Wash and she rolls her eyes bemused

Orland is quick to smile at Zakhar, but as with Apollo, he notes to Zakhar, "Excuse us Zakhar.... the floor awaits and he's longed for this moment." He winks and then is quick to grab Savio's hand when he accepts, laughter bursting out of him as he tugs the Proscipi Lord into the center of the dance floor. They are all alone for now and that is fine! The music is for them! They shall have the first dance! There are glances to others, to get onto the floor too, a nod to Giorgio, but then he's got eyes for Savio. The Amadeo Lord has been holding out. The dexterity of his foot work keeps them in time with the light airy music, getting to TWIRL Savio in that gown of his, drawing him back. "Is this what you hoped for?" He pivots and sways them, in time with the music, so the hemline of Savio's gown flares up. DANCING.

Raja laughs quietly. "I tease!" This is said towards Thea. She settles into her seat, smoothing out her duskweave skirts and folding one long leg over the other. "Everyone is so beautiful tonight. It's almost magic around here." She spies Aconite and lifts a hand to wave to the woman. "Hello!" She greets the woman. She glances past Aconite, spying Noah. At first her face is a bit neutral, but then a tiny smile touches the corner of her lips. There is mischief in her gaze.

"There are few words in the our language that would do the justice needed to describe the way you look tonight, Eirene." Mihaly says plainly, shaking his head in simple adoration for his wife and the way she looks tonight. "All that I will say is what I said so long ago to you. That have always and always will, in my eyes, shrine brighter than any star. And with both you and Anisha here?" he hands make a 'I give up' gesture. "I think I will run out of compliments tonight. I do not often get surprises, but tonight is the perfect time for one. Thank you, to both of you." Sure, the old knight doesn't get so mushy like this, but perhaps it's the theme of the event tonight that has him in such a good mood.

Malcolm notes, almost thoughtfully, once he has returned with two samples of wine: "I think I saw some of them stars here tonight. Always thought that the word stares - came from stars - cause we do one at the other." He says before sipping at his wine. "I'll need to tell milady wife all 'bout it -- this -- here." He murmurs, distracted by the people-watching, and awed. "Silly thought."

Savio has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Orland has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Aconite lifts her fingers to Thea's way, greeting Raja as well across the room while she smooths the stone studded umbra over her hip. But there's interesting conversation to be had and so Aconite's attention finally shifts her ears and what focus she can spare from staring at peoples clothing is given to those nearby.

Whatever Noah has whispered to Jaenelle causes a grin, and a soft worded response. To Malcolm's furrowed features, she shakes her head to attempt to sooth any concern, "I went with a small group to an island off the coast of Lenosia. We happen to bring back a few things, and some thought the Duchess could aide us on the history of what we found. Lenosia shall be grateful for whatever information she does, as her time allows." As Lianne's smile is caught there is a warm smile for her sister in law as she calls over, "I have a present for you. It isnt finished. You'll like it" she promises. All very mysterious. To Thea as she and Noah approach, "I am sparkling and delightful as always, and yourself, Countess?" she puts a bit more pressure on the title as she grins.

"Perfectly alright," Apollo says, giving Orland a bright smile. "We'll find a pretty place to perch and watch until my feet are dance-ready." Does he wink? He does /not/ - but he manages to exude something of a winkishness, all the same. He leads Lianne toward the fireplace, offering a dip of his head in apparent agreement with whatever she's said. Then he's giving a murmur of greeting to, "Lady - pardon, /Countess/ Thea, evening to you." Aconite and Anisha, at some brief distance, are given a little wave each, a dip of the head, and as he gestures to the seating at the fireplace with a decent view of the dance floor, he lofts brows at Lianne. "Unless you'd rather dance /now/." His brows loft, like to say he surely wouldn't keep her waiting, if that's the case. Jaenelle's words catch him, and there's another glance at Lianne, brows still up. "Such promise, the night holds."

Dolente, a mourning dove, Dolce, a collared dove arrive, following Cesare.

Drake grins a bit when people stumble over calling Thea 'Countess' but then drinks as if he's using the glass to stop himself from talking too much.

There are people all over here, the shining and sparkling best of Arx, and many friends among them! Savio has eyes just for Orland, however, as the two of them sweep onto the dance floor, miraculously avoiding either of them stepping on all that silk and duskweave that's happening up in here. "You didn't even tell me you could dance! Now I will be asking you to dance all the time," Savio accuses Orland, before his expression gentles into a smile to answer the question. "It's everything I hoped for."

"I'm sure you'll do fine, 'self'" Quenia quips back amusedly in Malcolm's direction, adding a bit of a wink. She's momentarily distracted when Isabeau approaches. "Lady Isabeau! So very good to see you again," and she might be overwhelmed with so many people, so she defaults to Lord and Lady, which is appropriate, as there may be too many titles to remember in one room! "I'm so very glad you could come. I do hope you enjoy yourself," she tells her. "We should have tea sometime!" she adds.

Quenia looks back to Giorgio and dips her head again into a nod, for a moment looking solemn. "Hopefully there is a bit of a break before the next thing comes through. There's always a next thing," she adds, but then shrugs it off. "But I'll not think on that tonight!" she declares loudly.

"Lady Eirene!" Quenia positively delights in the Riven's arrival. "I'm so very glad you could make it. Your outfit is absolutely gorgeous!" she remarks, complimenting Eirene's dress. No, she doesn't make a big deal of the Riven woman actually wearing a dress. That's for her husband to do! She also inclines her head to Anisha. "Radiant. I'm so very glad to see you here. I had almost sent a message to request having this at the Elysian Ballroom, but I hadn't had a party at Igniseri in so long I decided to have it here instead," she makes that admission quietly.

Noah moves easily over towards Thea and those gathered there. "Theresa.." There is an air of familiarity to the greeting over insult at this point. He reaches out to draw Jaenelle closer as if she's his comfort human in social scenes. He has a tiny human formed companion cube. "She meant to say that she steals the air from the room just by existing." He rumbles deep in his chest as he looks at those gathered and then back around the room.

It's much easier to ogle people and their clothing when one attempts to be unobtrusive about it. Thus, Caprice's unhurried meandering might go unnoticed by many, though she's paying attention enough to see various smiles and waves directed her way. They're all returned with her bottle companion raising in toast - and a more subtle gesture of muted appreciation for this or that in their attire. Briefly, her gold-dusted expression shifts, puzzled, and a glance is cast about - catching at last upon something or someone. Recognition flickers, ignites a more brilliant smile and a dip of her head, before the woman begins to move again, joining the Quenia's Queue of greeters.

Eirene looks a little mushy for a moment at Mihaly's praise but then murmurs, "Stop, you'll make me turn red. And I'll then I'll look like an idiot girl at her first ball." She pauses to look at him and nodes. "That is a gorgeous coat, dear... " Seeing Lianna's wave earlier, she returns it with a wriggle of her own fingers. All around, candlelight and starry gowns and good liquor and friends. She actually looks pleased with the world.

Graziella has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

6 Ivory Shields leaves, following Graziella.

Raja lifts her gaze from the conversation at hand, looking up to Noah, "Prince Noah." She greets him, her words sounding.. sweet. She was there sitting next to Thea it seems. She looks to him, "I was wondering when we would cross paths again. Seems we got off on the wrong foot."

Emberly moves a little beside Wash as they socialize and she keeps her attention on the room at large, she smiles a little to those she knows, offering a small wave to Thea and Drake

6 Ivory Shields arrives, following Graziella.

Isabeau offers Quenia and then Malcolm a nod and a smile as she settles upon her next course of action, to find some place to sit, and after a brief scan of the room, heads over toward Thea and Drake, joining themm.

Graziella has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Isabeau has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Kace offers a sweet smile at Jamie introducing them both and gives a polite nod to those sitting at the couch. "A pleasure to meet you Princess Graziella. I absolutely love your outfit, you've embodied the Celestial Ball entirely." she says with a genuine tone of voice before looking to Zakhar, "A pleasure to meet you. I shall make sure I add it to my places to look for when doing so. I'm sure both myself and Lord Jamie, will need to outfit our wardrobes when we get more settled in. I was lucky enough to have Guildmaster Caprice make my gown for tonight's festivities on short notice. She is truly a remarkable woman." she nods at hat before addressing Pasquale, "A pleasure to meet you as well. If you mean to pass the days currently, I'm trying to find time to explore new passions, painting in particular. Before hand, I was on a long trip that was needed." she says with somber smile, "And yourself?"

Feeling everyone emphasize the Countess title, Thea eyes them all. "Yes, yes. I know--You all never saw it coming,"a wry smirk appearing on her lips. "But you love me anyway. It's fine." This to Jaenelle and Apollo mostly. As Noah makes his way over, she looks up. "Princess Noel, how good-ish to see you. I trust you've been well." Then she hears Raja and her face is looking all sorts of curious.

Lianne's curiosity is caught by Jaenelle's words, eyes alight with interest. "I have little doubt," she calls back, and though there's certainty to underscore it, so too is there inquiry, a question contained in the shape of her words. Drawn on, there's little time to linger, her attention briefly on, "Countess Thea," with a bright smile before catching on Emberly's words. "A fine complement indeed," she calls back with a dip of her head. Once they finally find a moment of stillness, as dancing is proposed, she asks of Apollo, "Are we not already dancing?" looking, perhaps, a bit dizzy from all that turning about. "I wouldn't mind making it a bit more formal, if your feet are feeling fit enough?"

Anisha has accepted some fingerfood, somewhere along the way, along with a glass of wine, settling alongside Eirene and Mihaly, giving a smile and a little wave of her fingers to Apollo once more - keeping an eye on Aconite as well, at least for a moment. "Your dress truly is radiant, Lady Eirene. I'm glad I got to see it." She concludes - then the hostess steps over, and inclines her head to Quenia in turn. "The Ballroom would have been delighted to have you, Marquessa - but I do find that you've made the Domus Igniseri Great Hall look astonishing and most fitting for the occasion," She assures with a smile and an incline of her head. "You make for a grand hostess. Thank you for having me."

Apollo has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Apollo has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Lianne has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Lianne has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Wash meanders from person to person, focusing on talking to sailors. "Ms. Culler!" Wash zeroes in on a fellow sailor . "Raja Culler, where are you hanging your Captain's hat these days? Your ship was the... I want to say the Dusk? Something like that?"

Orland nods to Apollo, "Hope they warm up soon!" But then he was off with Savio to dance! Orland is leading the dance of the two Lords, his hands guiding Savio into more Arvani type dancing than that which could be found in the Saffron Chain, but he's easy with it, not making it too hard or complicated for Savio to follow. While they have the dance floor to themselves, he takes advantage of not having to look out for other couples, sweeping his Lord Proscipi with the power of grace and sure footedness. "I've been more and more agile since becoming a squire, of course, dancing is only a slight varient of fighting." He has full control, extending his arm outward to into a pirouette and drawing Savio back, grinning ear to ear at something the other man says. He steals a quick kiss before he's lifting Savio as the dance calls for, before setting him back down and doign another pirouette.

Oura, a white-tailed eagle, Valor, a juvenile male Oakhaven Bloodhound, 2 Greenwood Tribe Blood Warriors arrive, following Thesarin.

1 Greenwood Tribe Blood Warriors, 3 House Riven Soldiers, Lianna, Feydin, a white-tailed eagle, Vigilance, a juvenile female Oakhaven Bloodhound, Berthold, Tinsel, Thesarin arrive, following Mia.

Drake raises his now half-empty glass in greeting to Isabaeu. "Good to see you. It's quite a turnout for this event. I'm glad Kiera volunteered me for your project," he says, still all smiles. Thea mentions the title again, and he looks over to her. "I was the only one that saw it coming and I only gave you a little warning," he says.

Mia gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Thea wiggles her fingers at Lianne, chuckling a bit. "Marquessa Lianne. Good evening." Taking a drink, she starts to scan others, nodding over to Wash. Leaning against Drake, Thea amusedly tells him. "Yes, you gave me a split second."

Thea takes an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Cesare isn't /late./ Really. It's not the kind of event one can be late to. He's...fashionably delayed, or something. Drifting in on the warm summer air in a gown the softly gleaming shades of gloaming dusk, hair left loose and glossy flowing over bare shoulders and eyelids painted in a vibrant wash of purple. He spots his patron almost immediately and starts to head in her direction, elegantly trailing the volume of the gown's skirts behind himself.

Noah takes an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Isabeau gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Aconite manages to make up for the fact she's staring at every spare scrap of cloth with some of her sheer excitement and cheer for being at the ball and converses quietly as she can. Though she's fallen silent to listen to the Nobles and Royalty seated near her.

"Self's feeling pretty selfish at the moment," Malcolm comments back toward Quenia, offering her the second glass of Igniseri wine. "There. You know. You're going to be the name on the lips of many, given the timing of your event, milady."

"Formal, is it," Apollo says, smiling cheshire. Nevermind finding a seat, then; no more diversions. Time to dance. He leads Lianne toward the dance floor to join with Orland and Savio, and - perhaps based on what the other dancers are doing, or perhaps based on that declaration of formality - he engages her in a rather formal hold, intention to make good on that intention. It can only remain so formal, though, as words reach his ears that soften him, posture and smile both. "Isn't /that/ a lovely start," he observes, and gets to leading Lianne through a series of steps and turns.

Graziella spots her Whisper friend and she waves a hand, lifting up to greet her protege from across the room when Cesare enters in his duskweave gown. She doesn't beckon him over though, letting him make his way into the room at his leisure.

"Now, Noah, this is not the type of party where suffication is proper party etiquette" Jaenelle says, and its uncertain if she is teasing or not as she always seems to have amusement dancing in her eyes even when serious. "We do" Jaenelle then changes the topic easily and smiles towards Thea before Raja steals the attention away. "Mistress Culler, I have heard a great many things about you recently. Perhaps you and I should talk. Have you ever wished to be part of a Crown Ministry position? As Minister of Infrastructure, I am certain I could use someone with your attention and passion for the boroughs to make a difference on a grander scale. Ah so you know Prince Noah?" she then asks Raja regarding her date. "I am certain that he is rough around the edges, and after a bit of banging him to smooth them out, he isnt so bad, I promise." Her grin shifts back towards Lianne, "we should meet. I wish to know all you have done lately."

Zakhar has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Zakhar has joined the a group of Scarlet and Cobalt pillows.

Emberly moves away from Wash a moment to mingle herself, she smiles a little as she looks over to Jaenelle before she inclines her head a little "you have a lovely dress Highness." she says quietly

Anisha has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Pasquale says "Thank you." to Jamie. "But the sailors took far greater risks than I did." He eases up to his feet. "If you will excuse me. I think I will call it an early night."

When Mia arrives at Great Hall, it is rather decidedly not as she so often does. There is no rush, no hurry, to her steps to kick up the hems of her dress. There's no lady's maid accompanying her, or even the great, glowering Prodigal (no, not Thesarin, the other one, yes, there's more than one) who so often follows her everywhere. She arrives instead on Thesarin's arm, wrapped in delicate black silk and subtly celestial jewelry, pausing in the entryway to let her eyes sweep over all of the sparkle on display.

Savio is a good dancer! This is unfamiliar foreigner dancing, but Orland is taking it slow enough for him to figure it out, and the longer they dance, the more daring they can be about it, with spins that send him to arms length before reeling him back in close. "I can still beat you in a fight," he warns Orland at the dancing comparison, laughing. "...but in this, I'm yours." And nowhere else he'd rather be, meeting that kiss before their steps take them in new directions, with whispers of duskweave and glints of mirrorsilver...

Kace raises a brow in interest at the comet set that was mentioned of Aconite's, giving her a once over and an eager approving nod, "Absolutely beautiful, I do love your black lace veil. Reminds me of the night sky, with the right twinkle of the stones adorned on it." She then looks to Graziella, "Oh you dabble in painting yourself? I'm sure your paintings are wonderful and I would be honored to have yourself impart some of your knowledge and inspiration to me. We'll have to make a night out of it, wine and pastries." she nodded at that, "I do have to agree though, keeping your mind sharp is a very good thing to do." she then looks to Jamie and nods, "I too find myself a child of the forest. Not much for sailing either, though I do fancy visiting the beaches."

Meanwhile, somewhere in the background, some of the servants have been taking down names of those individuals who've arrived at Domus Igniseri once introductions have been made. They've been discreet, putting those names into a bowl. One selects a name, and then moves over to Quenia and passes the piece of paper over to her. Quenia reads it, then looks around the room, her eyes falling on Zoey a moment before a look of delight passes over her. "As I said there may be a handful of prizes tonight. I am pleased and delighted that the first to win such a prize is Lady Zoey Kennex," she says of her friend. "And her prize this evening is a pair of spring storms pair of cupridium hairpins topped with pale sapphire. Lady Zoey, if you could please come forward to claim your prize?" she calls out.

While she waits she notices Caprice is next in line. She beams brightly at the woman who helps handle the Igniseri finances. "Caprice! Your outfit, as ever, is a hit here tonight!" she calls out to the woman, clearly pleased. "I hope you are enjoying yourself so far?" she asks.

Meanwhile, somewhere in the background, some of the servants have been taking down names of those individuals who've arrived at Domus Igniseri once introductions have been made. They've been discreet, putting those names into a bowl. One selects a name, and then moves over to Quenia and passes the piece of paper over to her. Quenia reads it, then looks around the room, her eyes falling on Zoey a moment before a look of delight passes over her. "As I said there may be a handful of prizes tonight. I am pleased and delighted that the first to win such a prize is Lady Zoey Kennex," she says of her friend. "And her prize this evening is a pair of spring storms pair of cupridium hairpins topped with pale sapphire. Lady Zoey, if you could please come forward to claim your prize?" she calls out.

While she waits she notices Caprice is next in line. She beams brightly at the woman who helps handle the Igniseri finances. "Caprice! Your outfit, as ever, is a hit here tonight!" she calls out to the woman, clearly pleased. "I hope you are enjoying yourself so far?" she asks.

Pasquale has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Alberico, the Malespero aide, Louis, a Malespero Armsman leave, following Pasquale.

Aconite looks up towards Pasquale and smiles, "Goodnight, Lord Malespero." She turns her attention back to the couches and looks to Graziella. "Your Highness, when you're done would would you like to dance?"

The Champion is getting to her limit of being 'social'. Upwards she stands but sits down once more when she is joined.

Xanthe's

Noah makes a noise or a comment deep in his throate. He nods towards Thea and offers an almost smile. "It is almost good to see you too." It's also almost friendly. Lot of almosts from him. His blue eyes glance towards Raja. Where Jaenelle is sparkle and easy to read, Noah is just Noah. He stares at Raja for a moment and nods his head. "Perhaps." Then he looks towards Jaenelle when she speaks. A curve of his lips sincere for Jaenelle. "You are without question, not to be questioned." He winks to her as he manages to get a few drinks delivered to them. Probably poor Jordan. He hands Jaenelle one first before taking a drink of his.

Raja turns her gaze to Wash as he makes her way up to her. A laugh comes from her, "I am not a captain. I do sail, but I do not own a boat. You must be thinking of Acacia. She is the true Captain amongst the Cullers." She beams a smile, "But come sit with us!" She invites the man to join the group. Her gaze then turns back to Noah, "I have a gift that I had comissioned for you. I can have it brought to you immediately if you so choose. It is exceptionally well made!" Her gaze shifts to Jaenelle, blinking. For a moment she falters. A crown ministry position? But she recollects herself and clears her throat, "I would love to sit down and speak with you. I have many ideas." A smile is given to her. "And if I may say, you are stunning tonight."

Lianne manages a good bit of formality, really. Square shoulders and neat lines, all with a glittering swish of her dress with every twist and turn Apollo leads her through. "It is," she murmurs softly to him with only the barest indication of what, a sidelong look angled toward another nearby couple on the dance floor. Her more attenturn turns more obviously toward her sister-in-law, and she calls to Jaenelle, "We yet have a ship to steal, mm?" And though there's impishness in the words, there's intention in her expression, a surety in the nod she sends that way before she's whisked about again.

Orland is simply enjoying himself. There's no pressure here, there's nothing but their own moment, their own rhythm and okay, a little showing off! He can't help it. He hoists Savio up in a lift turn, before carrying him off into a a few easy steps so that Savio catches his footing from that. "Trust me, I won't guide you wrong..." he grins, a smile that's only for his partner but can be seen outside of the dance floor for the flash of white teeth. He pulls Savio in closer though, "You can beat me in a fight, I won't deny it."

Cesare arrives at the sofa where Graziella has installed herself and drops down into something that is half-bow, half-curtsey, sinking into voluminous skirts. "Your Highness," he says to Graziella, reaching for an extended hand to press a kiss to the back of it. "Apprentice Whisper Aconite. A pleasure to see you. You both look stunning." And to the others at the couches, he offers his name - "Cesare Whisper."

Zoey eyes alight when Quenia announces the first prize of the evening, gracefully rising to her feet and crossing the room to meet their hostess. "Thank you, Marquessa! This is most unexpected."

Cesare has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Aconitecesa

Gael gets an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Apollo takes an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Thesarin makes his way into the ball beside Mia, taking his long slides slowly to match the Marquessa's relaxed pace, crux of his arm extended. His clothes are nothing that's going to be the talk of Arvum, but he's dressed formally, and it has to be said he cleans up nicely. He might still look every inch a glowering Prodigal in a Compact nobleman's clothes, but he's doing his very best to fit in. He looks over the room, the lavish decorations, and the guests, but he looks at least as often at his wife--either to look for his cues, or just to see how she's responding to the occasion.

Eirene raises her hand to Mia and Thesarin, beckoning them close. "Hey. I put that money to good use. Your uncle was didn't know what to say," she says of her umbra and platinum ensemble. She grins impishly and primps her hair.

Noah gives a shake of his head. "I would not wish to distract from the party. You can send it privately later. Poison is surely not done sparkling enough at the moment. I'd hate for the luster to be lost in her presence."

"Huh. I thought you were a sailor after our last conversation." Wash sounds apologetic. "Cousin Noah. I'm Wash Kennex. We're related by... Thalia, naturally. So three generations removed?" He offers Noah his hand in greeting.

Malcolm takes a slow step back, and another, and then he finally brings his back up against a wall that he can hold up for a while. He looks a little more comfortable doing so, keeping his coffee-dark eyes on Quenia - watchfully. Somewhere between proper escort and slightly star-struck noble wannabe. He sips from his wine intermittently, and pauses to look at - through - the throng of party goers.

"Thank you. It was a labor of love to sew all the stones in." Kace's compliment makes the tall Courtier smile. Aconite amiles at Cesare, "You look divine as well, Whisper. The color of your dress compliments your complexion perfectly." She falls back into listening quietly to the discussion of painting.

"A ship to steal, mm?" Apollo says, looking at Lianne with faux-accusation as he leads through a series of steps that are likely second-nature in Lycene ballrooms; he likely had to learn them, but learn them he has. There's a note of confusion at what she murmurs as they dance, but it's a warm, light confusion, and smile and a little shake of his head serving as prelude to quieter words.

"I am not my uncle," Mia murmurs to her Marquis, shaking her head very slightly. "But his love for the skies is not entirely lost on me. No, Mihaly made quite sure of that." Her lips purse for a moment. She's trying not to smile, rare as that expression is, and all of her attempts fail at the sight of Eirene in her gown, at her declaration. "The pair of you are entirely too old to be so revoltingly in love," she declares, raising her voice just to the level that her kin can here her through the crowd. But then she gives the very slightest of tugs on Thesarin's arm, guiding him to join the rest of the family.

Mia has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Raja laughs. "I /am/ a sailor.. among many things." This is said to Wash. "I just do not have a boat that I am a Captain of. I have been many places, but .. not as a Captain. Sad to say." She pauses and looks to Noah, a smirk. "I would not poison you. It is not something edible. I mean, you could eat it if you truly wanted. Though, it would indeed make you ill if you ate it. Perhaps another time then."

Thesarin has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Standing aside for the announcement, Caprice applauds Zoey's win and turns a warm smile towards the noblewoman, before offering a sincere aside to Quenia, "Marquessa, everything looks beautiful! You've attracted quite the constellation of stunning guests, too. I'm having a -wonderful- time; thank you for opening your home."

Prize awarded and after a quiet exchange of words, Zoey returns to her seat.

More friends on the dance floor! Savio offers a fond little wave to Apollo and Lianne as they join, taking a moment to watch their swirling fabrics before his attention is returned to Orland, who is looking sharp in all that brocade and umbra! He's getting the hang of the twirls and trusting his way through the lifts, feet rarely visible beneath the long hem. It does seem however that he is not wearing boots. Perhaps some sort of fancy sandals. Quiet laughter follows some comment, and he speaks to answer something Orland has said to him.

Plunging like a cetacean joining its pod into the social and, to some, maddeningly complicated rhizome of the Peerage is a brusque figure of hard and severe facial constituents who should've stayed home. It is Gael, unhooded, uncoated, and strained by tight-fitting clothing at odds with his physicalities. A perpetual flinch of derision in effect across his upper lip remands him to an undisturbed approach as he makes his way to Raja, failing not to elbow some or mannishly squeeze through other's conversation until he is there, and like a sack, drops beside her on the couch. The poor, ivory leather and mahogany-made wooden sofa rattles with the accursed and discomfiting arrival of his inconsiderate landing. Gael's landing. To Wash he views with silent recognition, but it is the Culler he leans into, whispering in her ear with gruff some quiet sentence.

"Sit?" Cesare rises back to his feet, gesturing toward the dance floor. "I was rather hoping I could convince you to dance with me, Princess. Although if you've already stonewalled Aconite as well, we may have no choice but to take refuge in each other's arms." Inclining his head toward Aconite, and offering her a hand should she want to take a spin, "Not that it's a hardship. You made your own gown? Do your talents have a limit?"

"Thank you Lady Emberly," Jaenelle tells the woman after her gown is complimented. "I might have been bitten more than twenty times but less than fourty for this. Spiders are a delicate creatures and do not often do as you ask them to the first time, and require patience. Many" is said then to Lianne as Emberly moves off. Her warmth never changes as she dips her head in thanks towards Raja, "thank you. And we shall have to meet soon to discuss changes." Noah is side-eyed for a moment, amusement clear as she waits for him to take a sip of his drink before she holds up her's in clear invitation to exchange. This is a Lyceum party, she knows better than to drink without a poison tester and who better to use to test poison than a Grayson Prince? "Oh no, Mistress Culler. I am Poison. Prince Noah has given me a nickname. He is not accusing you of poisoning him, though if you wish to, I would start off slow. Few drops at a time."

Kace says, "I'm sure it was," the red headed princess would say with delight to Aconite, "Sewing and Tailoring are an art on there own as well," she says glancing around, "Alas, it shows at the Celestial Ball tonight, so many beautiful dresses. I, usually keep to myself enjoying a bout of reading with wine, tending to the flowers in the Redrain Gardens, or the likes. But I am glad to have had the chance to admire everyone's outfits and make new acquaintances." the woman would then turn to Graziella, "Even if you think your paintings are just wonderful," she rolls a playful eyeroll at Graziella, "There is a beauty to all things and something to be learned, whether an aspiring artist or world renowned. Just learning is a gift of it's own.""

"You should be aware. You wouldn't know any of the constellations at if I hadn't taught them to you, niece. You'll always find your way home." Mihaly pauses in his lecture about how the stars look represented in the hall here, though yes, he does sound somewhat humored by his own response. Mia's next observation has him looking at Eirene, then back to Mia. "Nonsense. I may be old, but I'm certainly not dead yet."

Gino, a surly sailor, 3 House Velenosa Guards arrive, following Antonio.

Noah smiles at Jaenelle and adds to her advice. "At all public parties from your own drink, so people would never realize what you are doing." He changes drinks with Jaenelle. A drink taken and he starts to cough. A clearing of his throat. Then he starts to cough more. A firm THUD to his chest. Noah's hand reaches out then for Wash's. "It is great to see you. How are you doing over there in Thrax? You should come to the next Grayson dinner. I rode a tray down the stairs. I'm sure you would have done it standing with me." A pause as Jaenelle's words linger. "Phrasing, Poison. Unless you are offering me up?" Then back towards Wash.

Then to Jamie, "I am /dabbling/ in painting." she chuckles, "Wouldn't say I'm good at it at all." a shrug of her shoulders and she grins.

Quenia doesn't completely miss Malcolm's slow retreat away from the hosting hostess; or rather the crowds around her. She gives him an apologetic smile. She didn't say being her date for the night would be easy! "In a bit, Duke Malcolm, I would appreciate a dance. Though I doubt you could sweep me off my feet like a Lycene, I'm sure you'll be an excellent partner." She gives him an impish look as she mentions this.

Quenia then turns to Caprice and grins a bit. "Thank you. It was a labor of love," she tells Caprice. "I needed to do something fun, after so much loss at the war," she confides.

She then looks around the room to see who else might be there, and wiggles her fingers at her servants. Time for another announcement. "The next prize this evening goes to. . . " she waits a moment before announcing it. "Zakhar!" she calls out, glancing over in Zakhar's direction. "A bottle of 525Divine Innocence, a fresh, clean scent," she adds, waiting for Zakhar to come claim his prize.

Aconite laughs and her head tilts, "Oh no, all I did was place the stones." The many, many stones. "Jayus' blessings are imparted on me through the muses of others. The talent and tailoring was all Messere Jacali and the jewelry the hand of the very talented Ripley." Aconite drifts to stand, the tall Courtier made all the thaller by her shoes causing th whirl of umbra and lace to fall around her legs. "It seems, Whisper, that we are left to our own devices. I'd be delighted to dance with you." She offers her elbow to Cesare. "Excuse us?"

Orland slips his arms more comfortably around Savio when the music changes to a softer more intimate pace, giving him a little breather from all the lifts and faster pace steps that were required of the last. He tilts his head aside, "I'm the luckiest person here." He declares as he sways them into the next series of steps that require coordination even if not quick turns, putting his hand up to meet Savio's palm to palm.

"That sounds fun. How large was the tray?" Wash wants to know. "Send me an invitation next time Noah. I've fallen out of the habit since Sabella turned the duties over to... who is arranging the dinners now? Sounds like they know how to have fun."

Cesare has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Cesare has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Whatever it was Mihaly whispers to Eirene has earned him a punch on the arm. "You big pile of mush," she comments. She looks pleased but is trying to scowl to hide it. She takes a drink of the wine to hide her expression.

Raja glances to Gael, smiling to him. "I am glad you made it!" She winces at something quiet he whispers to her. "Maybe I should have waited. Sorry I took off." She obviously has to stiffle a laugh at something Gael had whispered to her. She looks back to JAenelle, "I look forward to sitting with you. Though, I am not going to poison either of you from your own cup or mine." She laughs. "Or that is something a poisoner would say.." She eyes Noah as he turns to Wash. That mischief is still there, but there is also a bit of a debate in her features as if she is trying to decide something.

The snow-white locks bob a little as Zakhar turns his head as his name is called out. A little /who me?/ look upon his face as he starts to stand up, then crossing over to Quenia. "Is this a comment upon my usual scent?" He waves the cigar of haze between two fingers, leaving a small trail of blue smoke behind him.

"Well, then. If you're going to be so disagreeable as to actually disagree with me, Uncle, you can at least soften the blow by humoring me. With the amount of silver that was drained from our accounts, I at least feel as though I deserve a recreation of the 'look' that was given when my dear Aunt Eirene arrived." Both of Mia's black brows shoot up as she makes her declaration. "And if you won't humor me, I should warn you that I am perfectly willing to resort to asking your companions for impressions of you, regardless of what may result."

Noah offers towards Wash. "Oh it wasn't planned. I think some of the guys just decided we should." His smirk curves up a bit more to that as he studies the man. "I'll try to remember to send invite. I'm not sure who's doing it now. It might still be Sabella. I've been spending more time in the Velenosa ward. Don't you have like twenty children now?"

Aconite has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Malcolm's ears turn totally red, self-aware, and he straightens up with a quickness - approaching Marquessa Quenia's left side, quietly defending herself: "Naw, milady. I don't need to sweep anyone off their feet." He smiles warmly, dark eyes bright with humor "Shepherd's charm is a bit of a more subtle thing. Subtle like spending months to build a library for a risk at a political match. That worked. So - I'm pretty sure that I'd be able to keep up, provided you're willing to show me a thing - or three."

Aconite has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

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

Eirene snorts in amusement at Zakhar's win. "With that many cats? Probably very good thing."

"I won't interrupt your conversation, then, my darling," Cesare offers to Graziella, taking her hand and placing another kiss upon the back of it. A little bob up-and-down that's neither bow nor curtsey and he lays his hand in the crook of Aconite's elbow, flashing her a brilliant smile as he allows himself to be led to the dance floor. "You really do have exquisite taste, you know. I'm going to have to get some recommendations from you, I think."

As Lianne dances with Apollo, they speak, the conversation bright, pleasant. Nevermind that hint of playful threat which crosses her features briefly. Her verdant gaze turns once or twice toward the crowd, searching, but lands first on Orland and Savio nearby, addressing them with a warm smile until she's turned about once more by her partner's expert hand. When they fall into less twirling steps again, her verdant gaze alights on a familiar face in the crowd, warmth suffusing her expression as she murmurs another soft-spoken thought to her partner.

Medeia is late and while dressed in a very lovely outfit, she's not dressed for the occasion. Even so, she's here and walks in as if nothing is the matter at all - nothing is, aside from the lateness and lack of them-appropriate attire. She looks around, seeking familiar faces and a drink.

Softer music, slower dancing, Savio clasps his hand to Orland's and lets the other lead, easily taking the steps that mirror his partner's, without stumbling or confusion as to who's steering here. At the comment about luckiest person here, he hah's, amused, and lifts his chin just a little. "Yes you are." Then hearing some words closer nearby, he smiles, and murmurs to answer them.

A bit of musical laughter escapes from Quenia as Zakhar comments upon his prize. She shakes her head at him. "No. It just happened to be the next prize lined up. I assure you, my staff does not rig prizes in any way." Though clearly he has amused her with his commentary. She passes the scent over to him. "You are free to gift it to another, should you wish," she confides in him.

"Ah. Yes. Libraries, I'm certain, are a key to the Duchesses's heart," Quenia quips lightly. "She is very fond of books, and has been instrumental in some of my research in the past! Why, she even built the Lasting Hope Observatory. I'm sad she missed this event." She grins at him. "I'm most willing to show you a thing or two," she remarks. Dancing challenge accepted. Though will her feet fail her this night? That remains to be seen!

Gael groans in complaint at Raja's laughter, taken outwardly if one's to judge the deepening shades of his expression as though it had been at his expense. After, he bites down on the freshly unearthed bottle of Peach Fling and its cork, yanking it off its neck in one fel and wholly vicious backward lurch of the head. Pop goes the bottle, eroding its deleterious vapor into Gael's awaiting nostrils before he imbibes directly off of its oozing mouth. A ball? This very well could be a pub, for all he seems to bother. As Gael drinks, strangely enough, black-grey eyes as his' bulbs are... stare intently at Wash.

"Three. I mean, the Kay nursery is quite full, but my oldest is going to Maelstrom for fosterage in the next two years, that will make room for more." Wash assures Noah. "And if you want to go sailing, you let me know cousin. I'll take you out." He nods a farewell and meanders away to refill his drink.

"I think we could probably learn quite a bit from one another." Aconite tells Cesare with an amused smile on her stained lips. She does lean in to ask Cesare something quietly as they glide to join the other dancers. Once out on the floor Aconite really shows where her talents lie. She is a dancer through and through. She flashes a smile down to Orland and Savio and then Lianne and Apollo as well.

Kace ponders with a thoughtful expression, "Glory of the Snow flowers. Chionodoxa." she says proudly, "Often found in the woodlands, it's usually one of the earliest flowers to bloom in the spring. I find they smell wonderful." she nods to that, "And yourself, your highness?" she asks in retort. "I find painting or writing dreams down to be incredibly smart and useful to recollect things, especially if it becomes cloudy in the mind. Now my interest is piqued even more in your paintings, Your Highness." she smiles at Graziella before looking to Jamie, "My home in the north, or the trees and flowers. Nature itself, is spectacular and a beauty on it's own. I like to capture that stillness on canvas." she chuckles, "I didn't think you a writer Lord Jamie, I'm ashamed to say. You look more a woodsman or fighter, then again shouldn't judge a book by it's cover."

Thea glances at Wash and the mention of the Kay nursery. "I don't know how you're not deaf with all the children there. You have a dozen or two kids there now right?" She may be overexaggerating. Maybe.

Parties. Antonio is not generally a fan of them- and so it's rare to see the Lenosian sailor at them. And yet.. here he is, walking into a party with a somewhat uncomfortable look on his face. He is trying.. at least.

Zoey thinks on Thea's question a moment. "No, just ten at the moment."

Wash takes Thea's question as an invitation to join her across the room. "What did you say?" He asks, pretending to have lost his hearing. "Ten? That's nothing. Let me know when we hit a dozen."

"Alas, I have not offered you in volunteer since the nudity confusion" Jaenelle tells Noah, not even explaining it further to anyone who might be listening. "Yet" she adds with a beaming smile upward. There is a laugh for Raja's words, "it is a thing, especially at Velenosa dinners, to share drinks around the table with small amounts of poison in them. How else do you allow yourself to grow used to them so you don't die. Or perhaps it was just Talen's way of finding amusement at dinner. I shall never know."

Isabeau has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Gael has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Zoey grins at Wash. "We will have to marry someone in to make that happen. I do not currently plan to have more."

Having collected a drink, Medeia makes her way over to Thea, Zoey, and Wash. "Haakon still refers to the nursery as 'baby jail.'" There's a wry smile on her face as she interjects into the conversation. "Lord Wash, will you be helping to finish that push to a dozen now you're returned? I'm sure your lady wife would be most pleased to learn of it."

"Well then, I suppose we'll simply have to spend more time together," Cesare offers, a grin flashing across his face that's playful but just as genuine. A hand offers an elegant wave to Savio and Orland, and likewise Apollo and Lianne; Cesare leans in, that hand moving to Aconite's shoulder as she speaks quietly to him over the din of chatter and music, and replies in kind. And then, having resolved themselves, he allows her to lead - she's taller than him at the moment, after all! - and they're off, both of them adeptly stepping and turning about with all the athleticism and grace one might expect from a pair of Whispers.

Kethry sets down her drink after another sip, radiating gentle joy to see faces she recognizes and receive happy recognition in return. The crystalline embroidery of her gown catches the light as she moves a little closer to the dancers.

"Just ten,"Thea mutters, shaking her head. She squints at Zoey and Wash both, exhaling. But then Wash makes his way over and she repeats,"I said a dozen!" Looking up to Medeia, Thea smiles,"Hey Deia,"waving as Isabeau goes to leave. It was a pleasure to see you. We'll have to talk soon..."

Mihaly has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Mihaly has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Raja glances back to Jaenelle, "Nudity? You know, I have a painting of him in the nude. Though, you do not see anything /too/ scandalous." She grins, "The artist is very creative. I was going to give it to him, but he doesn't want it." There is a wicked gleam in her eye. "Maybe I should just put it on display somewhere."

Eirene has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Eirene has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Medeia has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Noah checks composure and etiquette at normal. Noah is successful.

Server Announcement: Server Message of the Day: Finishing much of the wrap up around Skal'daja in emits and voxes, will be some announced changes soon too to explain how to get GMing for personal stories in the coming chapter onward.

"Catalana is making those noises again. I blame you." Wash says to Zoey. He nods to Medeia. "I can only object to Cat's desires for so long."

drifts away from the sofa, offering Jaenelle a neat curtsey as she passes by, on a lap about the room, "Lovely to see you again, your Grace," she greets in that rich, serene way of hers, and offers Noah a slight dip of her head as well.

"You've ever heard that one's tale?" Gael mumbles to Raja beside him, tapping her shoulder with his bottle's slender neck for her brief attention. His other hand, ever-subtle in its unwieldiness, thumbs Wash's direction as he swerves off to join Zoey. "Gave everything up, or, well. Almost everything, for love. Love over a Kennex woman. That little shit had my mother swooning over him for months without having ever met him," he says off to the side, quiet, more inchoate musings than words truly. After, he turns his head heavy to the left and looks at Jaenelle over Raja's head. He blinks.

Orland snort laughs right back at Savio's agreement, looking quite content to be flourishing out there on the dance floor with Savio. His eyes flash to Cesare and Aconite, nodding to them, "You two look fantastic! Love the color on your eyelids Cesare!" And then of course he's twisting and turning Savio with more jubilation in his steps, completely forgetting the wars and all the strife outside this moment to wear a charming grin that is rare form on his face, another pirouette given, sending Savio on out almost out of reach before wrapping him back up, but turning him so they're walking hip to hip, arms wrapped, before flinging Savio in a very controlled motion outward.

Drake watches Isabeau rise to her feet. "If you're yearning for a dance, I can go with you a bit. I could stretch my legs too."

Noah's eyes shift over towards Raja for a moment at the words and there is a low growl. "As I have never been naked in front of anyone that could have painted it, I'm sure they did have a some creativity. As well, I am sure you are not threatening to put such things on display." Noah's eyes are very sharp. "Since I am very clear that we do not have that sort of relationship." There is a tightening of his jaw and his eyes are starting to go very cold. He's holding a bit of etiquette though.

Giorgio has left the marin'alfar wooden bench.

Zoey holds up her hands, her face a playful expression of shock. "Me? But what did I ever do?"

Medeia gives a small wave to Savio, Orland, Apollo, and Lianne before turning back to the group around the sofa. "I'm sure you could as easily blame me. Though, I'll be in no hurry to make the twins have more siblings."

"Ah, I think it's official --" Malcolm murmurs, looking as though he has accepted his current state of being, "-- I am all overwhelmed now. How do it get easier? All the sparkle and shine and stars. Huh -- that's a interesting thing. Looks like Dame Morrighan's work. Anyway. What was I saying?" He remembers. "Yeah, she woulda liked this, Delilah would've. "

Raja quietly lifts her glass of wine to her lips, eyes sparkling in delight as Noah growls at her. She does this little shiver, "Oh. But, it is ok for you to come into /my/ forge, insult me, tell me to lower myself before you, and it is not ok for me to try and make things.. better?" She gives him a smile, "Do not insult a crafter, my friend. We get crafty." A very sultry wink is given to him.

Savio seems pleased to spot Kethry headed a little closer their way, sparing a hand to wave to her, while he blows a kiss to Medeia! As ever, though, Orland has his attention, for the dance, for the sort of quiet laughter shared between two who know each other well. For those who know Savio, it seems a weight is lifted off him at the moment -- unfettered happiness and freedom, without the sadness and aloofness that has marked the days since the war. Just happy, not artifice or the actions of drugs and drink, something genuine and right.

Kace says, "Perhaps I'll have to find a seamstress of northern styles to sew you something of notable softness, your highness. I'm sure I've a few connections in that department." she smiles sweetly to the Pravus Princess. "Why thank you, I'll stop by during one of my strolls and have a look see." she nodded before turning attention Jamie's way. Before his comment was done and she'd noted the mischievous look she had a bout of her own playing across golden amber hues. In a brief flash and the way she canted her head they almost looked like molten gold, and brilliant flecks of amber strewn across. "Hmm.. Perhaps, you'll have to show me that your not the type. As of now, I have nothing to base these truths off of, considering we only met today. You could be a riveting handsome man, that lives in the woods and doesn't know what a quill is." she grins, a playful jest imparted by the princess, no harm intended."

Lianne's dance with Apollo slows and ends, a lingering brush of her lips to his cheek snuck between a few more quiet words. As she drifts away from the dancing, she twirls enough to kick up the glittering skirt of her dress, an airy laugh and bright smile inspired by Aconite. That brilliance lingers as she looks toward Medeia, dips a nod that diretching, but it's toward Kethry that she heads with a fond murmur of, "My friend. Would you care to dance?"

"What looks like Dame Morrighan's work?" Quenia knits her brow together a second, looking around the room. Her eyes alight on the various people even as she's speaking to Malcolm and making conversation. "That's the trick of it. I only hold these parties once in a small while," she says confidentially to Malcolm. "Mind, I don't mind being social, but there can be an upper limit." A pause, "You were talking about your wife and libraries," she reminds him with a grin even as she links arms with him. "A dance then?" she asks again, clearly wanting to do so. "We can move out from under the weight of greeting so many people and escape amongst the throng for a bit," she adds as she starts to walk in the direction of the dancing area. However, she pauses when she sees her staff. "Though first one more name to be drawn." The duties of a hostess...

Quenia looks down at the name, then calls out. "Lady Eirene Riven is our next winner. Tonight she'll receive a pair of Refined Raven Hairpin." She looks in Eirene's general direction.

"Well, if you insist, Count, I should hate to disappoint," Isabeau answers, her steps returning her towards the sofa, though she doesn't make to sit again, looking over at Drake with an easy, warm smile.

As with her arrival Xanthe is quiet but carries herself like a Champion. Quenia gets a blown kiss by way of good by. It is clear to someone who knows her that she is /done/ with many people being around. And off she goes.

Drake stands up, looking down at Thea with a soft smile. "Not so bad, eh? But you can have next, if you're up for it."

Drake has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Drake has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Isabeau has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Thea leans back, her eyes drifting back between Noah and the Culler. "Oh--so that's--,"she murmurs. But then Drake is going off to dance with Isabeau. She smiles up at him, nodding,"Not so bad. And sure. Long as you remember how bad I am,"watching as he goes to be his social self.

Gael is but seated beside Raja, unaware of Noah's sedated upheaval sent her way until the Confessor feels a particular Culler's spinal shiver rise in a wave up her back, then into his own side, due to proximity. He turns, a languid and groggy movement leading it, to lay muzzy upon the Grayson Prince a pair of sunken eyes that view him absentmindedly. Maybe even expectant.

Xanthe has left the a group of Scarlet and Cobalt pillows.

2 Scarlet Phoenix Guard leaves, following Xanthe.

Jaenelle's brows lift at Raja at the surprise she has for Noah. There is a look of concern. "Ah, I dont believe having a painting made of a Prince of Grayson in such a pose, and threatening to release it to the public is appropriate Mistress Culler." She sighs and shakes her head, turning towards Noah, "perhaps you should accept the painting now so it might be destroyed and then we can dance. I will have to discuss the changes in the lowers with His Majesty tomorrow to see if they might continue after hear this. I am a bit disappointed."

"Aye -- congratulations, Lady Eirene, come and get yer prize -- caw, caw, caw." Malcolm glances aside at Quenia, looks faintly relieved, and then he probably does his best duck impression. Because that's what ravens do? - right? Arms pulled up, hands tucked into his armpits. Flap, flap. Then his arms drop at his sides and he resumes looking formal.

Apollo lets Lianne go, giving her a bow to mark the ending of a dance that leaned formal from its start. His eyes are tugged a dozen ways - after Lianne, a study of Kethry a moment... a glance at the leather-and-wood sofa, mood somewhat tempered. And then back, having caught on some words from Aconite. He turns back, flashes a bright smile at her and her dance partner. "Aconite, it's been too long," he says, undoubtedly meaning it. "And Whisper Cesare, I'd say the same," though there's something about the way his grin tips that suggests a thread of humor in that statement. "I should find another dance partner, I think. You two have just started, mm. But perhaps Lord Savio or Lord Orland would part briefly to let me one dance."

Eirene wears that expression of adoration and exacerbation a woman can wear when her husband says something that both annoys and delights her. She is about to reply when her name is called. "Oh? Hey! Those are something I'll actually wear," she says as she excuses herself from Mihaly's dancing arms to get the prize from the hosts. Malcom is given a 'wtf' look as he dances like a chicken-Raven.

Wash applauds Eirene's victory. "Now those are a pretty pair of hairpins. I'll trade you a pair of my own Lady Riven."

Gino, a surly sailor, 3 House Velenosa Guards leave, following Antonio.

Orland eyes sidelong at Apollo, turning back to Savio to allow Savio the option!

Kethry's eyes all but glow when Lianne approaches her, giving Savio a wink and Apollo a bright smile. She offers her hand to Lianne with a tilt of her head, her halo of curls bouncing as she drops into a graceful curtsy. "Marquessa Malespero," she says warmly, stepping closer to the slightly-taller woman. "You honor me, but ... would you mind leading? I am terribly out of practice."

Savio lets Orland twirl him to a pause, and then leans up to kiss him. "I might need a drink, and more dancing later... BUT, Lord Apollo wants to dance with you." Some amusement there, and fondness. "He's lovely, I think you will have to let him, for a moment." He is willing to temporarily release his dance partner into Apollo's custody!

Zakhar checked luck + sewing at difficulty 9, rolling 58 higher.

Medeia's attention flicks to Malcolm, one eyebrow raised. "Pardon me," She murmurs to those around her as she approaches the man. "Dearest Malcolm, Duke of Graypeak, you'll be glad to hear your gift arrived safe and sound and your protege /hates/ her name." The lady grins. "Well done. And thank you."

Noah is silent and then looks at Jaenelle. "It is disappointing." Then he looks at her longer and sighs out. It's almost like a woooosaaah. Then he steps back to bow before Jaenelle and offer his hand. "Your desires are my commands, Poison. Come make me look good at the dance." He looks back towards Raja without any reaction or show of his thoughts. "You can have it sent to me after the event." There is a look towards Gael. Perhaps he wants to be high too.

When the notion of dancing comes up again, Princess Graziella politely declines once more and demures to go find a drink and maybe an exit-- in short order. "Thank you both for keeping me company, I never do like cavorting at these big elaborate functions." She smiles and waves to the duo as she collects her bag and wanders off.

Thea eyes both Medeia and Malcolm, smirking. "I don't HATE it."

Kace says, "It was a pleasure your highness. I will be sending you an invitation in due time for our artsy meet up and wine drinking." she smirks and waves the Pravus Princess a goodbye before looking to Jamie."

"And yet, here I am, my point made again." Mihaly seems to laugh. "Something else that pulls my wife away the moment we get to dance." Clearly this is not the same as the last couple of time that they couldn't dance together, but he's still going to make a joke out of it, watching Eirene win a prize. One that she would totally use.

"You're quite welcome, milady Medeia, the recent litter was mostly girl pups - but there's a boyo or two that I've meant to find new homes. Or, you know, save for account that those Highhill lines might help out Graypeak's." With a WIDE smile from Medeia to Thea. "Also, aye, my protege -- you mean -- COUNTESS Wyvernheart, don't you? She's earned that title."

Raja looks to Jaenelle, canting her head. "Sorry to disappoint you. A commoner has limited tools at their disposal. We use what we can. I apologize to you for this." She looks to Noah, "Enjoy your evening. I will not harass you further tonight." Looking straight at him, she gives a little dip of a curtsey before turning from him and rejoining the others at the couch.

Jamie bows to the Pravus Princess as she collects her bag, "Thank you for your company this evening, Highness. I enjoyed our conversation - it was my pleasure."

"I wasn't talking about /you/, Countess," Medeia says pointedly to Thea. "No no, the /other/ protege who is markedly absent and must now live with Butterpup."

Apollo turns all the warmth of that smile on Orland, offered over. Such a curious occasion, stepping in to dance in the place of a man he's often enough mistaken for. And he bows, catches Orland's hand on the way forward - and kisses his knuckles. Why not be /thorough/. "I see you know very well how to dance, my friend, so let's be about it." And he catches him in a proper hold, shedding whatever momentarily tugged his attention for a brisk step at double time for the music.

Kace says, "Hmmm.. Perhaps you've hit your head on a branch Lord Jamie. I find you both handsome and riveting. But what do I know, I'm only a Princess." she smirks at that, waving her hand dismissively and feigning insult. When mentioned of dancing however, there seems to be a look of surprise and shyness, "I haven't danced in a very long time my Lord. It would be me that is the unskilled one and I hate to damage your shoes this evening." she chuckled, although very serious about being unskilled."

"Butterpup?" Wash asks. "Am I truly going deaf or did you say Buttercup and I misheard it?"

"Lord Haakon!" Malcolm's sudden booming rumble is chased by a belly-laugh. "Butterpup's a good gurl, milady, he'll get used to it."

Eirene wiggles the raven sticks at Wash. "Depends. What you got?" But then she sticks them into her braids and goes back to the waiting Mihaly. "Yeah yeah. I know. Something always has to happen. At least it's a good reason this time?"

The longer Gael stares both silent and absorbed at the gesticulating image of Noah's exchanges with Jaenelle, the more this seed of amusement and recognition twists this almost disoriented man into one contouring towards a harmonious semblance of realization. And then Gael's laughing. Reedy, gurgling laughter more belonging to a pig than man as he clutches at his stomach, squeezes the vest's cloth there-spread, and pulls at it maniacally as he bursts along.

Up until this point Zoey has been happily socializing, never without a drink in her hand, but when one of her trio of guards approaches her and says something in a low voice she nods, finishes her drink, and sets the glass aside. She says some goodbyes as the escort her out.

At least this time, it wasn't someone dying on a surgery table." Mihaly remarks, likely in reference to the last time they tried to go to a ball together and were interrupted. And the dance is easily picked back up, though now he's eyeing the sticks she comes back with. "What exactly did you win?" he asks, taking her hands back into his.

Standing to his full height, Jamie seems to take that as a challenge, "If I cannot lead you through the dance, then the fault is entirely mine. If you would do me the honor, Highness?" The smile that crosses Jamie's face looks like it's fighting the man's natural impulse to at least -try- and have decorum, but the smile seems to overpower that particular impulse. The Marcher Lord extends his hand to his flame-haired companion, with no turning back now.

Zoey has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Orland seems reluctant at first to let Savio escape to get a drink, however when he's positioned to be handed over to Apollo, his eyes follow after Savio with some amusement. The Amadeo regards Apollo for a short moment, his eyes going a little wide at the kiss to his knuckles, "Lord Apollo,..." Scandalous! Thorough but scandalous. There's some awkwardness behind this, "Uh...I guess who leads?" His face shows a little heat for it, all of it... "ERP..." that's the sound he makes when he's grabbed up so confidently by the other Lord, which has the Amadeo snorting into a laughter, as he is quick to match the double time. "Damnit..!" The Amadeo laughs again as he skips along with the Darkwater lord.

Jamie has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

"Mine are red." Wash admits with a sigh, responding to Eirene. "And even an idiot like me can see those are better with your coloring." He feigns a morose disappointment.

Savio takes the opportunity to snag a flute of something bubbly and settles himself onto the bench of an unattended clavichord, the fabric of his gown settling easily around him as he perches there alone for a moment, smile toying with his lips as he watches his friends dance.

Aconite departs Cesare with a warm smile and then slips off the dance floor to go find herself more wine.

Aconite has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Medeia grins in Wash's direction. "Yes, her name is Butterpup. Like Buttercup. But a pun." Does anyone expect less from the former Harlequin? She gives Malcolm a wink. "Yes, that one. And I am sure he will find her quite tolerable as she grows to protect the children."

Medeia takes an elegant Granato wine called Peach Fling from barrel of Igniseri wine from Granato.

Lianne draws up a little straighter as she accepts Kethry's hand, the shallow bow which follows a tiny bit more crisp for the effort. "Of course," she supplies brightly though her eyes widen with a hint of almost certainly insincere worry. "That's hope I've learned a thing or two from the retired Whisper, mm?" As she turns to guide her partner toward the dancefloor, her attention settles on Apollo and Orland, a quiet giggle well-matched with the laughter over there and, perhaps a bit out of place with the more maniacal sound coming from over on one of the sofas. She turns a worried look toward Gael, studying him as a physician might, but doesn't yet stray from her trajectory.

Jaenelle turns fully towards Noah as she takes his arm lightly, moving towards the dance floor. As they pass Gael, she pauses to ask the laughing man, "has anyone ever told you, you look remarkably like my cousin Gael?" She doesn't know him! They move on, and she grins as they take their positions on the dance floor, she speaks a bit more quietly to her escort.

Kace seems to ponder for a split moment, those amber hues looking up towards the man from the couch. She narrowed her eyes and then nodded at that, giving him a grin "Fine but if you do not and I step on your toes, you'll have to owe me another fine night out.. One more quiet, perhaps." the scarlet haired woman put dainty hand in his, though slightly roughened over many years. It seemed the woman was no ghost to hard manual labor. She got up and followed Jamie to the floor for a dance.

{qQuenia grins over at Eirene, showing her teeth a bit. "I'm so very glad you can put them to use!" she exclaims. And just when she think she's done with gifting, one more piece of paper is stuffed into her hand. She carefully reads it over, and when she does her expression goes neutral a moment. It's not for the name, but something else that might have caught her off guard. She pushes whatever it was aside and then assumes a bright, warm smile and turns her attention to Jamie. "The last gift of the evening goes to Lord Jamie Greenmarch, and with the Greenmarch charm, I just know he'll find hte right person to gift it too. Unless, of course, he intends to wear them himself," she says with a bit of impish delight and a wink in his direction. She's a friend to the Greenmarch family, and feels comfortable teasing the man. "He will be receiving a pair of owl-shaped champagne silver hairpins with vivid green peridot eyes." Quenia waits for him to collect his prize.

Quenia grins over at Eirene, showing her teeth a bit. "I'm so very glad you can put them to use!" she exclaims. And just when she think she's done with gifting, one more piece of paper is stuffed into her hand. She carefully reads it over, and when she does her expression goes neutral a moment. It's not for the name, but something else that might have caught her off guard. She pushes whatever it was aside and then assumes a bright, warm smile and turns her attention to Jamie. "The last gift of the evening goes to Lord Jamie Greenmarch, and with the Greenmarch charm, I just know he'll find hte right person to gift it too. Unless, of course, he intends to wear them himself," she says with a bit of impish delight and a wink in his direction. She's a friend to the Greenmarch family, and feels comfortable teasing the man. "He will be receiving a pair of owl-shaped champagne silver hairpins with vivid green peridot eyes." Quenia waits for him to collect his prize.

Raja looks to Gael as he laughs. She smiles to him and his laughter becomes infectious. She too begins to laugh, letting the mirth spill forth. "You are a bad influence on me."

Kethry has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Eirene calls back to Wash, "Sorry. Blue is more a Riven color." She grins at her husband and waves over at her Marquis and Marquessa, fingers wriggling. "Where were we, oh dancing hubby of mine?"

Noah looks over as something is handed to him. There is a smirk to the messenger and then he looks at someone else across the room. He upnods his head towards someone. Then his attention falls on Jaenelle and his voice lowers.

Graziella has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

6 Ivory Shields leaves, following Graziella.

Kethry chuckles softly, stepping into Lianne's embrace with ease and a small measure of grace. "I'm sure I'm safe in your arms, Marquessa." With her scarred back bare to the room, framed in beautiful black silk embroidered with crystals and starlight, Kethry smiles at the picture the pair make. "With you dressed in such lovely colors," she muses, "it would seem the moon cradles the stars this evening, rather than the other way around." After the first turn, the golden-eyed woman adds, "I think I dreamed of you."

Aconite has joined the marin'alfar wooden bench.

Gael takes in Jaenelle's words in a stock-still state; unmoving, silent like a man facing its doom and frozen because of it. At first, the way by which his eyes react is but a slow, rising roll that views her stood while he himself remains seated on the couch, and then the color floods out of his cheeks, leaving him waxen and fetid with recognition. "Who?" Is but all his ailing composure can muster for Jaenelle, yet the word is rote, in it no spirit -- no conversational panache. A ghostly whisper, no more. Gael stretches his neck left to right, then allows his body to slump limp body to slump into a position scarcely approaching comfort. He's not laughing anymore.

Malcolm's overly expressive eyebrows lift-fall-lift with quite a bit of thought behind his eyes as he offers Medeia a truly pleased smile at her statement, nodding once, "Good guardians. None more loyal." The Shepherd Duke gently disengages from his conversation with Medeia, excusing himself for a moment in order to fetch a couple of sweets and pastries.

Round and round like dervishes, though Apollo can't conceal his worry, steps slowing just fractionally at the maniacal cackling from Gael and then total slump after. His eyes cast toward Lianne - he's only passing for long enough to catch a few words, but it's enough to redouble his resolve. "Are all those touched by Bravura have an inexhaustable well of stamina for anything that touches the arts?" he asks Orland. "No wonder you dance so brilliantly." And around they go again, almost too fast to see anything but a clear path around.

Zakhar has left the a group of Scarlet and Cobalt pillows.

Zakhar has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Just about to head towards the dance floor, Jamie quickly excuses himself politely from his companion, Princess Kace, and heads to Marquessa Quenia with a deep bow. "Good evening Marquessa - thank you for your gift! It matches the colors of my House perfectly, I could never imagine giving such a thing away." He offers his Hostess a warm smile as he takes the hairpins and bows once more. "And please, allow to me to say again how much I am enjoying your Ball. You throw an excellent party, Highness."

Raja whispers a few things to Gael. She lifts a hand and settles it on his shoulder. It's a friendly gesture. "I'll get us another drink." She rises up to her feet, smoothing out her skirts as she moves to the table with all the drinks.

Jamie and Kace wouldn't have left the couches just yet, standing just behind them otherwise making way towards the dance floor. She'd offer a sweet smile to Zakhar, "Hello, still enjoying yourself I presume?" she then looked towards Jamie and grinned before looking back to Zakhar.

"My disappointment is unending and without measure." Wash drolls on, contrary to his professed opinion, he sounds unconcerned now.

Aaand, just as when Quenia is finally free of her hostessing duties, Malcolm is off getting food. Just as well! She nods in Jamie's direction, grinning brightly. "I am very glad you are enjoying yourself. And don't forget to take home one of our latest wines if you have not yet grabbed a bottle for yourself," she motions over to the wine barrel.

Medeia agrees quietly with Malcolm before bowing her head to him and turning to find... A messenger about to tap her on the shoulder. They tell her something quietly and she leaves quietly.

Medeia has left the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

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

With a flick of his wrist, Jamie lets loose his long-ish hair and, with all the air of a man set about a task to which he is entirely unfamiliar, starts twisting his brown locks into something approaching a bun, stuffed through with the hairpins he so recently won. With a flourish, he bows again, this time with a roguish grin. "It takes a... bit of practice, I see. The Ladies of my family always make this look decidedly easier than it actually is." Still. No retreat for the soldier of the Greenmarch. He wears his hairpins with pride.

Aconite had found a seat on a wooden bench but once Raja breaks away from Gael she stands and winds her way through the ball-gowers ending up for a moment Raja's shadow in a whisper of Umbra before quietly greeting the woman, "Your necklace is amazing, I think it might literally kill me I'm so jealous." Her words hold a teasing air.

Orland catches up to the quick pace that Apollo set, nodding to Apollo when he's got the pace just right even if it is awkward that in some way he wants to lead but he's been captured by the other Lord that he has to let Apollo lead or otherwise there will be toes that are stepped on! That wouldn't be good. He glances over his shoulder to try and pick out what Apollo saw, but their dervishing is much too quick to linger on it. The ask about Bravura has him square his shoulders proudly, "Soon as I was adopted, art became my life." Though his own hand slides down Apollo's frame so quickly as if he were merely repositioning his hand, but it's not quite as smooth as ... what the hell was he trying to do! It looks like someone misplaced a hand! There's a sudden rush of color to his face! OH NO. That.. THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN! No one saw the hand that... Mortified, he tries to keep going like that didn't just happen. "Uhhh... uh.. yeah... just not used to being uh.. in the non-lead position. Sorry about that!" FLUSH.

Gael redresses his portion of the couch with shoulders that flump along the rest of his descending physique as Raja leaves, having only but acknowledged her reasons with a crisp nod. The scare has passed, and redly is the color that shines across his gaunt cheeks at the end of one long, and turbulent inhale. Idle hands now smooth with a semblance of dignity the upturned bottom hem of his waistcoat, the damaging angle of being seated constantly flipping up their cornered angles but Gael's stubborn. He tugs them just right, for now.

A creature of grace and poise, Isabeau finishes her dance with Drake, lowering into a graceful curtsey that spreads her skirts towards her dance partner and offers a smile before being led off the floor, "You're most welcome, my Lord."

Raja stops at the table, looking over the drinks to decide which to pour. Hearing the familiar voice of Aconite, she turns to look to the woman, "Oh! Thank you." She places her hand on the necklace. "It belonged to my friend Dianna. She gifted it to me before she left the city. I often wonder about her." She picks a bottle of sweet red wine and proceeds to pour the glasses. "Want a drink? I will pour one for you!"

Lianne tilts in toward Kethry to tease, "It's my feet you should worry about," but it seems entirely insincere as her steps prove steady. It might help that she moves them through fewer turns, just enough to kick up their contrasting dresses, that dark sky of glittering stars upon her partner and the pale lunar loveliness she wears. "Are we not partners?" she counters of who cradles whom, but those last words catch her a bit off-guard. Seriousness plays at odds with with impishness, and she falls somewhere between them in the end with an earnest, "Did you?" For the moment, the whole of her focus is held by her golden-eyed partner, the rest of the world all movement, song and light, entirely indistinct.

Isabeau has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Zakhar finishes a new smoke roll and looks to Kace, "Always. Not as much blood, though this can be equally as fun."

Malcolm returns, ducking his head, muttering an apology to Quenia. "-- Did you want to dance, milady?" He brushes his hands together, offering his arm to the Marquessa.

Well. He never. Orland lifted Savio with such ease, but all he's managed is to raise Apollo's brows. "Perfectly alright," he says, mildly. "I might have done the same." He turns eyes on Cesare, then back to Orland, smiling crookedly. "Yes, it looks like Lord Orland might like to collect himself." He clears his throat. "Would you like to lead, Whisper Cesare?"

After a moment, hair now relatively secured, Jamie heads back to Kace with a waggle of brown eyebrows, still extending his hand. His companion's momentary respite concluded. To Zakhar, "I apologize, Zakhar, may I interrupt you for a dance with the lovely Princess?"

Drake has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Drake has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Isabeau has joined the a comfortable ivory leather and mahogany wooden sofa.

Drake departs from the dance floor, giving Isabeau a bow, and then grabs another glass of wine before returning to the vicinity of the couches. He stands close to the spot, listening in a bit.

Noah is overheard praising Quenia.

With the smoke lit and a new puff taken, Zakhar looks to Jamie. A sly little smile crosses under his beard for a moment. "By all means."

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

Kace quirked a brow at Zakhar. However she made no further questions instead watching Jamie make his way over to her noting his very 'charming' expression. A hand would go up to stifle a soft laugh at his waggling of eyebrows before noting his pins, "I think you've now out dressed me Lord Jamie. What ever shall I do?" the woman looked between the two before looking back to Jamie with a genuine grin, one that was hard to grace along the woman's features but Jamie managed it.

Cesare doesn't so much as bat an eyelash. "Delighted to, Lord Darkwater," he says. Hands having been placed into Apollo's, he readjusts their position, one slipping down to light at Apollo's waist and the grip of the other shifting to a gentle clasp of fingers. "And now you can go as fast as you like. Or, I suppose, as fast as /I/ like." That said, he doesn't waste any time in starting up the steps of the dance again, just as fast as Apollo had been leading Orland. Maybe faster.

Orland has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Without further hesitation the woman would take Jamie's hand to be led out unto the floor. She leaned in and whispered something to him as they made there way over.

Orland is moving off the dancefloor quickly, trying to find drinks or something... maybe get away from the dance floor for a breather! He tugs on his collar, touching the pin that keeps it closed, looking overheated.

Aconite lifts her glass of wine and wiggles it. "No thank you." She replies and leans in to murmur something to Raja and then glances across the floor the direction of Gael before looking back to Raja and staring at all those sapphires. "What a gift." She shakes her head, "She must have been quite a woman if it serves as a reminder."

Jaenelle is an excellent dancer. While her twin learned to make stabby motions, Jaenelle took dance classes. She even makes Noah look amazing as they move through the paces. The dance is not complicated, the steps graceful and unhurried, allowing the pair to speak softly as she move around the other couples. It is only when they reach Drake and Isabeau does Jaenelle speak louder, "Duchess Isabeau, forgive me for before. It is a pleasure to see you again. You are well?"

"Never, Highness. You are a radiant star upon the evening, and I, a poor substitute for dawn." The storm of mischief in Jamie's moss-green eyes reaches a crescendo as he extends his hand to Kace, and then leads her onto the dance floor the same way a soldier might when facing down a hundred men with swords. Alone. And quite possibly unarmored. Utter focus.

Orland has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Wash finishes his second glass, and true to his word doesn't seek another, not on an empty stomach. He gives Quenia a nod. "This has been very relaxing my dear Marquessa. I think I miss the sound of my tiny feet however. I will make an early exit so as to put them to their beds."

Savio lifts a brow at Orland and Apollo over there. Hmm. HMM, but most of his attention is actually contemplatively watching Lianne and Kethry for a moment. Eavesdropping?? Maybe. Like Lianne, something he seems to find captivating about that golden-eyed woman. But he doesn't seek to interrupt that pair, and after Cesare saves Orland from himself over there he smiles and rises from the clavichord, sweeping over in a whisper of duskweave to steer Orland toward a place to sit and rest for a moment.

Jamie has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Kace has left the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Kace has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

Savio has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Savio has joined the couches embroidered with an ivory rose.

Raja places her hand on the necklace, tracing her fingers across it. "She was amazing." She says quietly. She looks back to Aconite, canting her head. She speaks lowly to the woman.

Of course responding to Jaenelle, Isabeau smiles and dips her head graciously, "Quite well, your Grace. I trust you are as well? You look thoroughly radiant as ever." she compliments.

Thea smiles over at Drake as he sits, telling him,"Husband. Marquessa Mia and Marquis Thesarin have offered to help us with our lands." Someone has been doing other things while he was dancing. "And I've invited them both over to visit. See the dogs. All of those things. With booze."

Jamie checks dexterity and performance at normal. Jamie is successful.

Kace checks dexterity and performance at normal. Kace marginally fails.

Jamie checks dexterity and performance at hard. Jamie fails.

Aconite laughs and touches Raja's shoulder briefly and murmurs a quiet reply and nods. "I commend you on your success." She suggests and lifts her gaze back to the room and almost looses herself to staring at the expanse of cloth and jewels.

Noah checks dexterity and performance at normal. Noah is successful.

Quenia glances over at Malcolm and smiles as he returns. "Nah. It's all good. You don't have to stick to my side all night. Enjoy yourself," she urges him. She glances over at Wash and inclines her head. "Do have a good evening."

Gael takes in a long, hot breath, and blows it out. Out his nostrils, past his lips that thinly partition. Each of his eyes flit occasionally from one face to the next, his survey moored by languor and disinterest, a lassitude that drags on the further he's remanded to the couch. The more his body relaxes, exhaustion makes his once stiff physicalities more pliable, and he sinks into the quicksand of cushions with a look of crooked amusement. Occasionally he gives Raja a one-over from that short distance, a custodian but verifying their mark before descending into idleness again.

Malcolm nods, resolutely, and while he doesn't go and mingle - he does go to bring a few things with him before he makes an exit, smiling to himself all the while.

Raja nods to Aconite after a few quiet words were exchanged. She turns to head back to the couches where Gael sits and offers him a smile, "I have your drink. I am also here to rescue you. Want to accompny myself and the lovely Aconite? We have some things of interest to discuss. You are welcome to come along."

Noah might be leading. Is he leading? Surely, he's leading. He's a GRAYSON! They learn these things. It's just that Jaenelle does it so much better. Noah seems to shake whatever may have annoyed him. He gives Jaenelle his sincere smile and for a moment, he looks charming. He sweeps her through the dances easily as he can manage her weight. "You know this is the celestial ball." It's like he's going to leave it there and then he offers more. "So it makes sense you are in the room. For you are more than the stars, the sun, and the moon. You are something stronger. Something that outshines them all. I can only be but a shadow to the radiance you are."

Eirene is overheard praising Quenia.

Cesare is overheard praising Quenia.

Raja is overheard praising Quenia.

Kace is overheard praising Quenia.

Mihaly is overheard praising Quenia.

Zakhar is overheard praising Quenia: scents, parties, extra scents