Aida, 6 Pravus Honor Guard, Victus arrive, following Belladonna.

Victus Ysbail=We'll assume she's taking an extended break :p

She's not running *too* very late, at least. Belladonna arrives on Victus's arm, her expression a mixture of pleased and amused for whatever conversation they've been having. It's clear that she's in high spirits, looking thoroughly relaxed already for all that she's dolled up to the nines. They aren't all that far in when she tugs Victus to a stop, her eyes sweeping over the place even as the Pravus guards that escort the pair fan out to find places to watch from. "Oh, my. She has outdone herself," she observes, her tone touched with awe.

5 Velenosa House Guards, Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent arrive, following Niccolo.

Likely not knowing who this party is for, and a good chance he won't even know many of the people showing up to celebrate, but a party is not a party without Brogan. That is, at least how Brogan sees things. The large brawling Nightgold comes walking into the gardens, whistling in appreciation at teh setup. Unlike Belladonna and Victus, Brogan is dressed pretty low key. "Let the partying begin!"

Victus seemed to be in higher spirits than he'd usually presented himself with. The High Lord was freshly polished and his expression was one that held a grin, wide enough to stretch ear to ear. He held to the Duchess' arms but he was more than happy to allow her to lead them about. He was out of his element here by far and his awkward posture told that in droves. The giant of a man hung closely to Belladonna, his attire a mixture of blood black leathers and fetishes of the Isles that adorned his hair with sparkling gems. He was properly bling'd for the occasion it would seem. "Happy birthday to ya' if I didn't say it already." He mouths down to the Duchess, no louder than a grumble.

Ford was here early. Sort of. If by early, you mean here before the guests of honor, then yes, he was early. But he was here before most to get a good read on the food and drink to be taken advantage of. Donning his brand new coat, all lovely navy/violet with a delightful gold filigree along the cuffs and lapel, Ford turns upon hearing both Belladonna's voice and the telltale voice of Victus.

Larissa takes a glass of champagne from one of the wandering trays and steps forward into the fray of the crowd "Good evening to you all, and thank you for joining us tonight to celebrate the birthdays of Duchess Belladonna Pravus and Marquessa Lianne Pravus. I would also like to welcome you all to the Botanical Gardens of Arvum, a project of love and passion intended to bring beauty, peace and joy to everyone in the city. Music will play throughout the evening, food and wine are abundant. There are handpicked bouquets for everyone to take with them and don't forget to wish our lovely Ladie's a very Happy Birthday." Larissa pauses and lifts her glass "To Belladonna and Lianne, may this year bring you the same beauty and grace that you bring to all of us. A blessed birthday to you both!" she calls out. "In honor of your birthday, and indeed all you do for our city and to mark the Grand Opening of the Gardens I am so honored to present you each with a special part of the garden, named in your honor. To the Duchess, I offer the Wysteria Covered Arbor Path - a place of tranquil beauty to inspire long walks and pensive thought. And to the Marquessa, inspired by her love of books and learning, I offer an Ivy covered swing to curl up in and lose yourself among the honeysuckle and peonies. These are just the first of what will be many additions to the Gardens. Thank you all for coming, please enjoy the party." she finishes with a raise of her glass and sip toasted in warmth and celebration.{

Niccolo walks into the area, along with his usual retinue of guards. Close to the archduke is Romina, silent and attentive as ever. The Lycene High Lord takes a moment to study the surroundings. Having joined the gathering, his feature as schooled as ever as he comes to a stop, just in time to listen to Larissa speak. His features soften then, when he looks in the direction of Lianne and Belladonna after the speech given by Larissa.

Lianne arrives unescorted and entirely at ease in her solitude, head high and shoulders straight. She shimmers in her gown of bronze lace, the plunging neckline and bare arms better suited to warmer weather than the autumn chill beginning to creep in. By the time Larissa addresses those beginning to gather, the marquessa already has a flute of champagne in hand, lifted when Belladonna is mentioned. Attention drawn to the ivy-covered swing, her verdant eyes widen, steps starting promptly in that direction.

Calandra is one of those Whispers in attendance, clad in green and wearing a bright smile upon her face. She listens to the announcement given by Larissa as she welcomes everyone to the party, and she lifts her own glass as well, "To the Birthday girls!"

Gino, a surly sailor arrives, following Antonio.

Rosemerta, Antonio arrive, following Juliana.

"Thank you," Bella tells Victus for his words, a quiet laugh escaping. "I do not know if you did or not, so I clearly was not worried about it." When she catches sight of Larissa she tugs her companion to a halt, paying attention to the words being offered up. When the woman finishes she lights up a fair amount. "The gardens are beautiful, Softest Whisper Larissa," she calls. "I am more than pleased. Thank you. And thank you to everyone who has come tonight; we do very much appreciate it. Please, do enjoy yourselves." When she catches sight of Niccolo, there's a smile sent his way, too.

Gino, a surly sailor have been dismissed.

Serenity arrives, delivering a message to Lianne before departing.

Antonio Velenosa arrives late. Perhaps fashionably so, or perhaps he just lost track of time. Considering who he arrives with, it really could go either way. The prince, dressed in his usual leathers, arrives with the ever lovely, and always fashionable Lady Juliana Pravus on his arm- the two conversing quietly as they step inside the botanical gardens.

It was quite the luxurious place. Victus was just scanning the premises, those pitch black eyes flicking from person to person. There weren't a lot he recognized besides Niccolo and Larissa of course, the rest being more or less strangers. That much didn't help how out of place the giant was feeling on the arm of Belladonna, but then again, he really wasn't much for these parties anyhow. Still he was more or less unphased at all of it, he was just enjoying his time there while he had it. "Damn, they go all out for you girls eh?" He commented back to the Duchess. "A whole fuckin' garden wing. That had to be expensive."

He comes in still smelling of salt spray and the cargo of spices with which he shared the journey from Setarco. Duke Cassius Pravus is dressed for travel, and a small bundle of possessions accompany him as he enters the gardens, as if he has not even stopped at the manor since docking. His red-gold hair, perhaps a touch lighter for its time in the Lycene sun, is held back with a simple cord, though a strand has broken free to kiss the side of his face. Reaching up, he tucks it back, even as his pale blue eyes scan the area, expression at once expectant and guarded. When they land on Belladonna and her escort, they light up, ever so faintly, like lightning flashing behind clouds, and in spite of himself, he sucks in a deep breath. Then, squaring his shoulders, he marches their way.

Sebastian makes his way through those gathered in his somewhat subdued attire of deep blues and black. He seems to have arrived unaccompanied, and his steps wind slowly toward the guests of honor, intercepting the path of Lianne on her way to the swing to dip his head to her and wish her a quiet "Happy Birthday" Glancing toward the swing he says, "Both lovely and fitting." His smile is sincere, though there's something distracted about him, and possibly he's had a few drinks before arriving.

Felix makes his way through the gardens in his rather casual manner. Currently clad in a crimson shirt made of cotton and britches of the same material, he moves on booted feet towards where the others are convening and offers nods of greeting upon his approach. A smil warms his lips as he regards Belladonna. "Happy Birthday," he offers to her before shifting Lianne-wards with a smile towards her as well.

6 Thrax Guards arrives, following Abbas.

Ford slips one of his arms behind his back, snags a flute of champagne, and goes about wandering the grounds. It was a much better use for the building that was here before. Far better.

At the sight of Belladonna's smile, Niccolo allows a genuine touch of one in turn aimed her way. He looks in the direction of Antonio as he arrives with Juliana, and dips his head in a silent greeting to his nephew and niece. The archduke doesn't move, at least for now and rather lets his hands clasp behind his back as he continues watching those present.

6 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Belladonna checked composure at difficulty 30, rolling 7 lower.

A warm smile is given to Belladonna and Lianne both "Happy Birthday, I'm so pleased you like it" she tells them both before she turns and addresses the crowd. "For tonight's entertainment we will be serenaded by our famous Nightingale, Calandra Whisper. She has prepared a song especially for the evening and will perform it for us after everyone has had time to mingle and enjoy the wine, champagne and garden. Explore the paths, uncover something enchanting and enjoy our excellent company for the evening."

Oh yes! It's worth noting that Antonio's face is marred with fading bruises and other injuries- though they are well on thier way to healing.

"Everyone knows how much I enjoy my presents," Belladonna informs Victus loftily, giving him a playfully resentful look. There's no ire behind it at all. "So I am spoiled. I cannot say that this displeases me. Shall w-" she's starting to gesture for the pathway when she spots Cassius. And, well. She just stops talking, her expression shocked. There is an attempt at words aside to Victus, certainly, but she doesn't quiet manage, the faint grip on his arm suddenly probably pinching a little with how hard she's gripping. And, well. For the moment, she stares, entirely caught off guard.

Calandra takes one final sip from her glass before setting it aside, offering a warm smile towards Larissa before approaching her fellow Whisper, smoothing her dress down lightly and nodding her head to the gathering. "Please enjoy all that the Gardens have to offer while you are here on this special day, it truly is a magical place!

"Yes," Lianne answers Sebastian with a touch of her own distraction before she sets those evergreen eyes upon him in full and turns a bright smile his way. "A new place to hide, mm?" Nevermind that outing it as a hiding spot renders it useless in tht particular function. The movement of others entering steals her attention away from her cousin, though she nudges him with her champagne-holding hand to point out the duke's arrival, to draw attention to the impending reunion. All as her own gaze strays to a seldom-seen smith, brows pitched upward in amusement at Felix's approach.

Ford has joined the The Belladonna Wysteria Arbor Path.

"And I thought we already establish-" Victus cuts himself off when he feels her grip suddenly becoming that much more tighter. It wasn't easy to feel against the scars beneath his robes, but regardless he was perceptive enough to measure the change. Black eyes follow her own until they too stop upon Cassius, evident Duke of Pravus. Though Victus couldn't say he easily recognized the man, his gaze only narrowed toward him. There was a slow shrug of his shoulders as he looked back down to Belladonna, "You... Got a problem, Duchess?" He asks faintly.

Niccolo follows Belladonna's gaze to Cassius, and lifts a brow in the duke's, his Voice's direction. He tilts his head up, watching and let those hands clasped behind his back unclasp and move in front of himself. He leans in towards Romina. "Find me a drink," he says to the Mirrorguard, just as he steps forward, towards Lianne. His hands clasp behind his back again.

It does not take many long-legged strides to arrive before Belladonna and Victus, but throughout his brief journey, his eyes have only been for the duchess. They remain on her as he pauses only a few feet away, studying her face before turning his eyes on the ruling prince of Thrax. "Your grace," he says formally, voice modulated and even. "I hope you will forgive me if I steal my wife from your arm long enough to give her an embrace."

Ford wanders far into the Belladonna path, drink in hand, quite content with quietly drinking and taking in the new surroundings. Oh look that's a nice flower. Right? Sure. Hey! Those are plants, definitely plants. Man this place is green, whew.

"No," Belladonna is quick to answer Victus, snapping out of it a least a bit. "My husband." There's a quick little apologetic smile sent up in Victus's direction before she lets go of his arm and fixes her eyes over on Cassius again, the little blonde's uncertainty so very clear in the way she braces herself. Not that she speaks up to say anything to him, for all that her attention is fully focused there now. Apparently she forgot how to polite face. Grace? Pfft.

The Warlord of Thrax arrives a little late to the party. He is clad in his typical austere suit of steel plate. His helm is off and since the small little war waged against the enemies of Pravus the he has gone back to his war dreads. Although the bits of bone and other fetish items are not currently woven into the clumps. abbeys comes with a grim face and looks around the botanical gardens with a skeptical arch of the devil's brow.

Felix flicks his gaze back over his shoulder to catch sight of Cassius quickly. A nod is offered to the man, but as per the usual the smith seems content to let the Duke get on with his business. After a crisp bow of his head towards Belladonna, he takes another step towards Lianne and, of course, Sebastian. "Happy birthday," he nearly chirps - as much as one can chirp in his baritone. "Having a good one, I hope." A grin is flashed to the woman before beaming at Sebastian.

Sebastian inclines his head a little when Lianne mentions a hiding place, a faint smile spreading across his lips. Though her nudge has him turning his attention in the direction she indicates and he watches as Cassius approaches Belladonna. One brow raises just a little bit as he studies them, and then he takes another long swallow from his glass. He makes no comment however, turning a raised brow toward Lianne for a moment and then greeting Felix as he arrives with a raise of his glass. "Evening," he says to the man and then nods to both he and Lianne, leaving them to converse for the time being.

"Ah, your husband. Duke Pravus." Victus dips his chin toward Cassius as Belladonna leaves his side without an ounce of resistance from the High Lord himself. He simply takes a step back as the couple did their thing. "'Scuse me." Breaking away from the pair, he walks deeper into the party to find himself a glass of wine himself. Possibly something stronger if they have it on the menu too.

Niccolo's nod is returned by Antonio (and probably by Juliana too, when she comes back from IRL dinner!) However, when Abbas makes his entrance, Antonio murmers something to the woman on his arm before disengaging and approaching the Reaver prince. "Your highness," he greets, before pulling the -very- thraxian looking axe he has tucked into his belt out, offering it to the other man, "I think this is yours."

Cassius watches his wife's face a moment longer, as if seeking something, and then, tentatively at first he takes another step toward her. And another. And finally, he pulls her into a fierce embrace, his lips disappearing for a moment in her golden hair.

Niccolo approaches Felix, Lianne and Sebastian. "Nephew," he greets Sebastian first, with a dip of his head. "Master Felix," he adds and then steps towards Lianne, like the archduke he is. He moves in, leaning to kiss her cheek. "Marquessa," he says, with a faint grin. "Happy belated Birthday?" He says, with a side glance over to Belladonna, Cassius and Victus.

Juliana murmurs something to Antonio before stepping away from his arm. Juliana has two gifts in hand, both wrapped and looks around for a place to put them. She finds the other piles fo gifts and places her amongst them. She turns then to take in the room. She drifts over to collect a glass of wine before stepping in to approach the guests of honor, waiting her turn to say hello.

Lianne gives a weird little waggle of her champagne glass as she's wished happy birthday again, her nose crinkling just the littlest bit, but she doesn't voice any actual objection. "Almost certainly," she answers Felix. "Ask me again after I've had a moment to catch my breath, mm?" Her verdant attention tracks Sebastian for a second before settling upon Niccolo as he approaches, her smile brightening instantly. She steps in to meet that affection, a hand finding one of his to hold and squeeze. With a chuckle, she breathes out a soft, "Thank you." For a second, she seems distracted by something off in the distance before she refocuses on her uncle. "Almost got away without anyone noticing, but Belladonna's too clever." Perhaps to all three, she asks, "How have you gentlemen been?"

There is a little stubborn set to her jaw as Cassius spends that moment looking at her, but it's right back to uncertainty when he steps towards her again. Belladonna watches him so intently, and while she does shift her weight as if she were going to bolt, she does not actually do so. There is no resistance to being pulled in, though for the first moment she's stiff against him. He doesn't have his lips in her hair for but a moment before she is melting, wrapping her arms up around him and positively clinging to him, burying her face in against his shoulder.

Abbas arches a brow and checks his belt where a similar thematic axe resides. The man smiles at spotting Antonio and he grins to give Antonio a pat on the back. The friendly Thraxian hard gesture comes with a few hearty slaps before he speaks, "That does not look like my axe." The Warlord tells the recently betrothed. "It looks like your axe now. It's a solid thing that has served me well over the years. Should you ever find your personal blade out of your hand it is always good to have a backup." There is a grin and he rumbles, "If you will excuse me, brother-to-be. I would like to go greet those we honor tonight, have a drink with my High Lord, and a few subsequent shots to get caught up."

After a some time has passed Calandra Whisper moves over to the gazebo with the other musicians. She takes a moment to smile out to the crowd and the music stills, bringing the crowd to a hush before the light peel of a violin begins the cascading song that begins to spill from her lips - and she sings.. I flew aloft on frozen wings,
I clove a waveless sea,
And sat upon a glittering star
In glory and penury.

And, lapped round like the Cherubim
With waves of my own fire,
I felt the secret moving lust
For the unmoving mire.

I cast myself in wild disdain
From that vast precipice.
I fell, a splintered lance of light,
On a blank ball of ice.

Snowy and red, with wings outspread,
In palsied trance I lay,
And waited with the unwilling dead
The certain Judgment Day.

The terror drove my spirit forth
Into the quivering air.
The ice heaved, and the sleeping beast
Rose reeling from his lair.

That vast, remorseless, ageless beast,
Heaven-high and ocean-wide,
Came from the ice and looked at me,
Pondered, and pitying cried:


“As light is lost in deeper light,
Gloom swallowed up in gloom,
You must in your own infinite
Your infinite entomb.

“A sprite, you must in mire be dipt,
A worm, take wings and fly;
You must in great indifferent seas
Your purity purify.”

Then in the cavern of his maw
He took my limbs and ate,
And turned gain, and went behind
The eternal icy gate.

But my soul hovered, trembling still,
On the bleak empty air,
Waited, and feared, and knew full well
What still must happen there.

A lovely youth, jocund and free,
Out of the ribbed ice came,
Across his breast a serpent lay
Like a brown band of flame.

“My limbs are strong as the deep hills,
Set on the enduring slime,
But my eyes were forged in Paradise,
And have forgotten Time!”

The song comes to a close and Calandra falls into a graceful curtsy at the applause "Thank you - To Duchess Pravus and Marquessa Lianne!" she calls before exiting the stage{

Looking from Lianne to Niccolo at mention of his name, Felix offers the Archduke a cheery sort of smile and a crisp, respectful bow of his head. "Your Grace," he speaks up again in greeting. He takes a step to the side to allow him plenty of room to navigate then while the smith quickly scans this section of the gardens with his peripherals. Finally his attention lands on Lianne again and he belts out a quick laugh. "Well, good luck there," he speaks in a slightly softer tone before slipping away towards the drinks.

After a some time has passed Calandra Whisper moves over to the gazebo with the other musicians. She takes a moment to smile out to the crowd and the music stills, bringing the crowd to a hush before the light peel of a violin begins the cascading song that begins to spill from her lips - and she sings.."I flew aloft on frozen wings,
I clove a waveless sea,
And sat upon a glittering star
In glory and penury.

And, lapped round like the Cherubim
With waves of my own fire,
I felt the secret moving lust
For the unmoving mire.

I cast myself in wild disdain
From that vast precipice.
I fell, a splintered lance of light,
On a blank ball of ice.

Snowy and red, with wings outspread,
In palsied trance I lay,
And waited with the unwilling dead
The certain Judgment Day.

The terror drove my spirit forth
Into the quivering air.
The ice heaved, and the sleeping beast
Rose reeling from his lair.

That vast, remorseless, ageless beast,
Heaven-high and ocean-wide,
Came from the ice and looked at me,
Pondered, and pitying cried:



Belladonna is overheard praising Larissa.

Belladonna is overheard praising Calandra.

Juliana is overheard praising Larissa for: Another gorgeous party my friend, you are a wonder

Cassius keeps Belladonna close against him, then gradually disentangles himself, his cheeks reddening at the sudden realization that they are surrounded by people. His embarrassment, in turn, gives way to anger at himself for finding himself in such a situation and he scowls at the closest person present, in this case, Felix. In the end, he is saved by the song from Calandra, and he devotes himself to listening to it with all of the earnest discipline of one who prefers it to more talk. When it ends, he casts a glance to Lianne, and there is a nod of something that looks like gratitude passed her way, should he catch her eye.

Juliana is overheard praising Calandra for: Your voice is sweet as summer wine

Ford is overheard praising Calandra.

Belladonna checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 30, rolling 13 higher.

It's an odd thing- Antonio seems rather touched by Abbas' gesture- literally, of course, because the Warlord is slapping his back, but more than that! "Thank you, then," he says, slipping the axe back into position on his sword belt, opposite the jeweled cutlass he normally wears, "I'll make good use of it!" The then nods. "Have fun!" And with that, the sailor prince looks to see where his lady friend has gotten off to.

Cassius is overheard praising Larissa.

Cassius is overheard praising Calandra.

Ford finishes his little flute of champagne and sets it on a tray of a passing whisper helper no doubt. He takes another from the tray and goes to find someplace to sit.

Ford has left the The Belladonna Wysteria Arbor Path.

There is a moment in which Belladonna protests the disentangling, grabbing on all the tighter instead. But she stops abruptly when her mind catches up with her, and she's letting go of him carefully and stepping back, lowering her lashes and bowing her head some as she makes to smooth her dress down. The singing starts, and so she too pays attention, lifting her hands to applaud quite loudly for the song. "I do not think I will ever not have her do one of my parties ever again," she notes smoothly aside to Cassius, pleasant expression settling well into place. One hand comes up to gesture over one of the Whispers, and she requests a glass of Fire. There has to be some here, there's other Setarco booze!

"I've been well, all things considered," Niccolo replies to Lianne with a touch ofa smile, glancing at Felix when the other man addresses him. He studies him briefly, and dips his head in acknowledgment before turning to Lianne and Sebastian once more. "Busy, but that seems to be rather common. This is a lovely party, I'm glad I was able to join it. Other than family gatherings, I don't get to see all of you as much as I'd like. You're both well I hope," he asks of his niece and nephew.

With the little performance finished Calandra offers an elegant curtsey to the crowd, "Thank you to our birthday girls, I hope every day comes with a song of it's own." She announces, stepping down from the Gazebo and reclaiming a glass of wine as she steps out to mingle with the party guests.

Sebastian doesn't quite make it away when he notices Niccolo approaching and gives a bit of a bow to the Archduke. "Uncle, always a pleasure to see you," he says in greeting, before he does step aside as the man moves to greet the birthday Marquessa. "Busy does seem to be the state of things," he agrees with Niccolo easily enough and then says, "I have found much inspiration since coming to Arx, and soon I will have as many paintings in my studio as I did in Setarco when I left it."

Ford rises from his found seat and makes his way towards Belladonna, smile ready for her, "Duchess Belladonna." He says, "I had a chance to wander the lovely path with your name attached to it." He dips his head towards her with one of his perfect smiles, "I think you'll find the beauty on that path is befitting one such as you, Duchess. Happy birthday."

Lianne turns a bright smile toward Cassius as she reciprocates that nod, something silently communicated between the pair, but the bulk of her focus is upon Calandra when the songbird sets to singing. Those paying ill-placed attention to her instead of the whisper might catch a subtle shift in her expression around the middle of the song, as she sings of light lost in deeper light, of gloom swallowed up in gloom, her smile softening into something warmer as if she might find something familiar within those words. When the song is done, she downs the last of her champagne and relieves herself of her glass that she might applaud. "Remarkably," she answers Niccolo, adding, "All things considered," with a hint of humor. "I could make a point of visiting your study soon, trouble you with all the nonsense that keeps me so busy." There seems an unspoken 'and' there, as if there were something else to discuss that goes unmentioned, marked only by an arch of her brows, an inquiry. Which may well extend to Sebastian given the curious look she turns to him as well.

Ian comes into the botanical gardens at a slow pace, a hint of curiosity flickering in his intense blue eyes. He may have heard something of the performance from the street, a familiar voice. Aside from the cane, you'd have to look pretty hard at his gait to see anything wrong with it -- otherwise, he could just be strolling. He pauses just inside and lets his gaze do a slow sweep over the scene.

Quiet, a Valardin champion, Woody, an infantile Northern white-faced owl with soft gray plumage arrive, following Katarina.

Juliana moves in to approach Lianne, offering a nod to her Uncle Niccolo, paired with a pleasant smile. She looks to her cousin and leans in to kiss the air to either side of Lianne's cheeks, "Happy birthday, cousin." There is a a look of curiosity in Juliana's eyes as she looks Lianne over -- friendly, definitely, but curious. "I wish you all the happiness that can be found, on land or at sea, and may this day be the best you have had thus far, and the worst of those yet to come."

The Reaver Prince's eyes shift for a moment to regard conversations and those present. Abbas finds the two women celebrating birthdays in different level of engagement. He starts towards Lianne but finds her to be more involved in conversation and so he alters his course towards Belladonna. Abbas tilts his head as he catches the song and he claps for a moment. The metal clad mitts clang against one another for a few /claps/ before he ceases. The Thraxian makes his way to Bella and when he comes before her there is a dip of his head. Abbas waits behind Ford to get a moment with the Pravus Duchess. He is patient and wears a flat expression behind his beard.

To Sebastian, the archduke inclines his head in response. "Good, I look forward to see those paintings. I'd love to speak to you at some point, about doing a few pieces for our Hall of Mirrors in the Velenosa estate," he says, then turns towards Lianna, chuckling at that hint of humor. The dip of his head in response to her words is a firm one. "Of course. I'd love a chance to catch up," he assures her. "Just let me know when you would like to come by." Juliana's arrival catches his attention. "Juliana," he greets her, with familiarity.

Felix blends, interestingly enough. The tall smith stands over by the drink table taking everything in while casually sipping from a glass tumbler filled with an amber liquid. Even as he tips it back to his lips, his eyes travel from one guest to another for a casual 'sizing up'.

Ah! That's where Juliana has gotten to! Antonio heads towards her, Lianne, Niccolo and company, though he remains quiet once he gets over there, not wanting to interupt the conversations in progress. See.. he can be polite!

Ian is doing something very similar to Felix, although from some other location. He stands still, a little out of the light, and watches. He may also be trying to parse whether he should just quietly duck right back out again.

"I should apologize to Prince Victus," Cassius says. "I did not mean to drive him away," he says in soft tones to his wife. With the music ending, discomfort is setting in again, and he pauses in his search of the Thraxian prince to let his eyes land on Felix, Abbas, and Niccolo in turn, as if noting some silent impulse to speak with each. In spite of all of his words, however, he remains close to Bella's side, trusting her command of social situations to shield him from small talk.

"It would be my pleasure," Sebastian says to Niccolo with a dip of his head. He glances to Juliana as she arrives. "Sister," he greets her with a lift of his glass. He then says to Niccolo, "I will look forward to speaking to you soon, Uncle. Perhaps then we can also catch up." There's a glance to Antonio as well as he arrives, "Highness." Then he says, "I should go and bid birthday wishes to the duchess. If you'll excuse me." Then he does slip away to make his way in the direction of Belladonna to pay his respects.

Katarina arrives onto the scene in a flutter of pale silks, her cheeks a touch ruddied with the exertion of her breath as golden eyes drift over the guests milling about the gardens in search of the ladies of the hour. A delighted smile blooms over pink lips as she moves toward the Setarcan duchess and the newly landed Marquessa, her fingers splaying in delicate greeting toward Niccolo and Juliana as they come into her line of sight first. "Your Grace, my lady! -- Almost thought I'd missed all the festivities, but I'm glad to see that it is not the case."

Juliana looks back to Niccolo and her smile brightens by a degree, reaching forward, and setting a light touch to Niccolo's left elbow she leans in to press a brief kiss to his cheek. "Uncle Niccolo, good evening." She glances to Sebastian as he says hello. Her expression is briefly, momentarily even sad before she covers the flicker with another 100 watt smile, "Good evening, Bas." Katarina gets a small smile and a bow of her head, "Princess Katarina, good evening."

"I'll send a messenger," Niccolo assures Sebastian, and looks over to Antonio, dipping his head. "Antonio," he greets, just before he returns Katarina's wave with a little wave of his own. Then he is smiling as Juliana leans in to kiss his cheek, lifting a hand to gently squeeze her arm. "Good evening, my dear."

"I am sure he will forgive you, considering," Belladonna notes to Cassius, keeping her voice low but still audible for those nearby. "Provided I do not abandon him to boredom this evening." And then there is Ford and her smile grows a touch; she steps in towards him to kiss just off of his cheek, reaching one hand up to squeeze at his arm before she steps back to her husband's side. "Thank you, Marquis Ford," she says. "I am glad to see you here." He gets an encouraging smile before she looks past him to Abbas, gesturing the Prince forward as well. And then Sebastian, as she shifts on her feet and turns to try and get a bit of a circle going, instead of a line. "You must all take pity on me and not subject me to a receiving line. Please." The smile and tone that goes with the words has a note of something playful.

Lianne reciprocates the greeting from Juliana, her eyes alight at the kind words. "I have lived some very fine days," she counters, noting that the bar is set awfully high if this one is meant to exceed it, a goal set for the evening. Her gaze briefly skirts off toward the crowd as if taking measure of the component parts, what they have to work with. And, perhaps, spotting a nearby server that she might grab a drink, another flute of bubbly, the color a paler reflection of her dress, plucked up and drawn close. "I will," she assures Niccolo, promising, "Soon," as she lifts her drink for a sip to seal that promise. With a glance toward Antonio, she asks Juliana, "Are you going to make the introduction?" Nevermind that she and the prince have already met.

Ford offers a warm smile and a tilted cheek for Bella when she kisses him, and then touches the bottom of her wrist before stepping away. Giving others room to schmooze. Time to wander some more.

There is a pause from Juliana at Lianne's prompt, a brief blink and she turns to see Antonio there, "Oh! Have you... oh. Prince Antonio Velenosa, this is my cousin, Marquessa Lianne Pravus, cousin, this is Prince Antonio Velenosa." There is a significant pause, Juliana clearly feeling the introduction complete. And then with a blink she turns to Antonio, "Do I say fiance yet? Is that... is that where we are now?"

Alrec slips in through the entryway with that typical stride of his. It would be remiss of him to show up empty handed, so he is not -- except, of course, that it's just that little pack of cigarillos that he carries rather than any gifts. One is acquired, lazily set to his lips, and he does not bother to actually light it. It is toward the general assemblage that he travels, though he veers off to look over the buffet tables and the assortment of refreshments with a keen eye. It's ridiculous, really, the way that he is considering this and that selection. After much deliberation, he snares some fine and pricy delicacy off the table by hand so that he can consume it and look across those assembled. First food, then people. The unlit cigarillo at this point is dangled idly in hand as he chews.

"Lord Sebastian," Antonio says, giving the young man a tip of his head and almost knowning grin when he greets him. Niccolo gets a big smile as well. "Uncle." And then, there is shock, when Lianee professes not to know him! A mock look of shock, perhaps.

Never one to crowd her dear friend long, Katarina slips in from behind Belladonna to draw the duchess into a loose embrace, a praseodymium bracelet touched with flecks of sapphire enfolded into her free hand with a graceful slip of fingers. "Happy birthday, dearest Bella," she trills with an earnest sweetness, her gaze lifting toward Lianne. "And to you, Marquessa, as well! Many wishes for more."

Abbas checked charm at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

"Lord Sebastian," Antonio says, giving the young man a tip of his head and almost knowning grin when he greets him. Niccolo gets a big smile as well. "Uncle." And then, there is shock, when Lianee professes not to know him! A mock look of shock, perhaps, though he'll go along with it for now. "Marqueesa, a pleasure and happy birthday." To Juliana, he grins a little bit. "I'm not quite sure, but I do like hearing you call me that."

Abbas makes his way forward and he acknowledges Cassius with a subtle nod of his head and a grunt. Not entirely chatty with the man but at least paying respect to his presence. From the corner of his mouth a smile breaks out when pitch eyes settle on Bella. It is a Thraxian quick affair easily missed within the span of two or three blinks. He armored man comes not with gifts but he was fresh on the heels of curb stomping her enemies. And with a flash of his blunt white teeth he offers, "I won't mince words or wax poetic. I have enjoyed your presence in my life, and ripping the guts out of your enemies and draping them over my longships." He begins, "Glad you're here another year. As always, I remain your stalwart defender." The prince informs her in her gravel laden tone, "I look forward to the rise of your fortunes and will do my part to stand behind you in all things." With all that said he offers a nod. One last look to Cassius and Abbas will wait for a retort before he moves on. He seems a bit rushed and ready to depart company.

Should Ford wander near, Ian will fold his upper body over his cane in a bow to the Marquis, but won't put any further demands on his attention. He's keeping himself pretty well out of the way, tonight.

"No receiving line," Sebastian assures, "I merely wanted to wish you the happiest of Birthdays and let you know that your gift is awaiting you at the manor at your leisure. I've kept it in the studio for now but will bring it where you like." He gives her a small bow and a smile, and then he and his wine step back and out of the circle to allow others their chance to speak with the Duchesse.

Ford moves over near Ian and has some quiet words with the man.

Abbas taps his foot impatiently, too. And in armor. That is like /clang/ /clang/ /clang/.

Duke Cassius offers Ford a nod and a smile when the Marquise speaks with his wife, though that smile doesn't quite reach his eyes, regarding the man's back for a moment, before turning his attention on Katarina. That interaction he regards more easily, glancing to Bella's face to see her reaction to the beautiful piece of jewelry. And then there is Abbas. The nod is returned by a matching, albiet /much/ slower one, his face otherwise impassive. As his icy eyes do not leave the man, they are easily met for that last look as well. His head is slightly cocked this time, as if...considering something.

Ian gives Ford a... that's an uncertain look. It's not something Ian wears often, and this time he doesn't wear it long; it fades into a general dubiousness. But still. That was definitely uncertainty. He says something softly to the Marquis.

"I will do no such thing," Niccolo replies, with a look to Belladonna at her words about the line. But he is smiling. He offers a small gesture to those immediately around him, excusing himself as he takes the few steps to close the distance between himself and Belladonna. He dips his head at Lianne's response, and continues on with similar gestures to those he passes before reaching his the duchess. "Belladonna," he says first, then to Cassius adds, "Duke." He turns to Bella once more and reaches to wrap his arms around her. "Happy belated Birthday," he says, kissing her cheek.

There's a nod for Ford as he steps away, Bella's eyes turning to Abbas. As he speaks, her expression settles into something serious, though she cannot quite help the twitch upwards of her lips at his particular mention of her enemies. "Thank you, Prince Abbas," she offers softly. "You have been a good friend." Sebastian too gets a smile, and she reaches out to squeeze his arm before she grabs the drink that's brought to her. "Thank you," she says. "If you would hang it in the study, I would appreciate it." And, well, there's a Kat. She squeaks and does *not* elbow or kick at her friend, spinning a little to grab the Princess for a hug as she closes her hand around the jewelry. "Thank you, sweets," she says. Anything more is lost because Niccolo is stepping in to hug her and she turns to return the squeeze, muttering some quiet words.

Lianne lifts her glass toward Katarina at the call her way, a sip of that champagne taken. The marquessa makes a happy little sound at the introduction Juliana offers for her fiance, those verdant eyes of hers alight with mischief. "A pleasure, indeed, your highness. I do believe you yet owe me a treasure from your next trip, mm?" Her smile skews left for just a second. The clanging--and talking of gut-ripping--coming from over by Belladonna steals her attention for a second, but her words are still for Antonio. "Not that anything you might find will prove sufficient compensation for a cousin stolen too soon after reunion." Looking to the couple, she bids quietly, "If you'll excuse me a moment," clearly meaning to head off.

Victus checked dexterity + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Ford almost rears back in surprise at what Ian had said to him. He shifts his stance and tilts his head, continuing to have this quiet conversation.

Juliana nods to Lianne, "Of course cousin." Juliana's smile turns briefly secretive, but she says nothing more, just watching Lianne depart. She remains where she is, seeing Belladonna admist the thickest part of the throng. She lifts her glass to sip from it and simply watches the room at large.

"Your grace," Cassius replies quickly to Niccolo on his arrival, bowing his head in respect to the archduke. The man receives a rare smile, though the Duke says nothing more for the moment, allowing his wife and Niccolo their quiet moment.

"Indeed. I could search the world over twice, and likely not find something to equal Lady Juliana's value," Antonio admits to Lianna, flashing her one of her brilliant grins, "But yes, I do believe I owe you -something-." When she goes to make her depature he just nods his head, before glancing at Juliana from the corner of his eye, amusment and something more sparkling there.

Ian bows over his cane one more time to Ford, and then angles in the direction of the throngs around Belladonna and Lianne. There's a distinct sense that he's been shooed.

Victus having retrieved a bottle of champagne from the tables begins to slowly make his way through the crowded place from the most inconspicuous spot to the next. It was damn near silly how the giant of a man was trying to tip-toe about, but by the time he was done with his little show, he'd made it all the way to the entrance without a hitch. And then in a flash, he departs out the door and into the night.

Alrec is maneuvering from the buffet table after acquiring another tasty, pricy treat to move on to the refreshments. He is looking out across those gathered still, the two celebratory birthday women with their cluster of guests of course being his focal point. It's first Belladonna that he spies, and upon spotting Cassius his attention lingers for but a moment before shifting onward to Lianne. He regards her for a heartbeat before filching ah -- there it is, rum. His taste in liquor is evidently nowhere near as refined as his foot selection.

Niccolo holds Belladonna and replies to her quiet words, smiling a genuine smile at the duchess. He briefly presses his forehead to hers in a sign of affection, and slowly relaxes his embrace to allow her to step away. "I'll have to think of a suitable gift later," he admits, with a wry chuckle. "I've never been very good with gifts," he points out. He looks from her to Cassius. "It's good to have you back," he assures the man, with a dip of his head. "You and I have a couple of things to discuss in the next few days," he notes to Cassius. "There's a mission still waiting for you." A pause and he offers Belladonna an apologetic look for bringing up business in the middle of the party.

Calandra continues to make her way about the gathering, glass of wine held in hand and largely untouched for the moment as she strolls, her gaze drifting across the various guests as she passes, a smile offered here and there, but largely remaining on the sidelines, for the moment.

Katarina offers a delicate squeeze to Belladonna's hand, then slips away from her side to engage in conversation with her husband. "Duke Cassius," she trills with soft-spoken exuberance, cheeks dimpling with the infectious warmth of her smile. "-- is good to be seeing you, my lord. All is well, no?" Her fingers clasp lightly at her waist, content to watch the guests milling about for the brief interim.

Abbas parts company and he is head towards Lianne. His gate is limited by the metal that adorns his body. When he arrives near the woman he casts a look around before he stops before her. The dreadlocked Reaver Prince settles his full attention on the woman. And he leans in slightly to share quiet words with her. He wears a grimdark expression like it was a comfortable mistress. One hand rests casually on the head of his axe as he speaks. The metal capped fingers rest along with his arms at his sides. One finger hangs loose on the gauntlet and never moves; clearly missing a digit there.

Ford makes his way to the table of refreshments and trades in his champagne for the goodshit, some of the Fire. He takes a glass and a hefty drink from it before seeing Abbas make his way towards Lianne, he follows suit not long after.

When Niccolo releases her, Belladonna slips back, nodding to his quiet words. She reaches to take Cassius's arm then, settling herself at his side as she looks over the crowd, the people. There's a quick nod sent in Ford's direction before she turns her gaze to the approaching Ian. "My lord," she greets. "Thank you for coming." She's scanning the place, clearly looking for...something she doesn't see. Eventually she does give up, refocusing on those nearby.

Birthday wishes deliered, Sebastian begins to make his way toward the periphery of the gathering, finishing the remainder of his wine and finding another that might carry him down the arbor path named after one of the guests of honor. There, he meanders beneath the wysteria for a time, taking in the scenery.

Sebastian has joined the The Belladonna Wysteria Arbor Path.

Finding a small gap in the greetings, Juliana moves in towards Belladonna and offers her own greeting, "Happy birthday, cousin. I sincerely hope this day and all your next offer you that which you both want and need." There is a hesitation, but in the end, no attempt made to kiss Bella's cheeks. There is a warm smile offered before she slips back to let others say their hellos.

"I look forward to it, your grace," Cassius says, snapping his attention from a study of Alrec and back to Niccolo. "The discussions and the mission. I suspect there is a lot to catch up on, and I will do my best to arrive well informed, so that you don't need to waste any time getting me up to speed." The corner of his mouth twitchs upward in rue before Katarina snatches his attention. "All is well, yes. Thank you, Princess. Just...um...finding my land legs." As if for stability, he places one of his large hands over Bella's on his arm.

The whole 'we don't do charm' must run in the Thrax bloodline somehow. Ian folds his upper body over his cane in a bow to Belladonna, and then fixes her with the full force of his attention. "Lord Ian Kennex, your Ladyship. Happy birthday." He speaks what should be happy words solemnly, from within the center of his deep well of calm.

Seeing Ford make his way to Lianne, Niccolo lifs his hand to wave to the man, and former student. "Marquis," he says, before he turns his attention back to those immediately around him. Romina finally returns with a drink, having patiently waited for the right time to offer it to the archduke. The High Lord claims said drink and brings it to his lips.

"I'm sure the land legs will come soon, my lord," Katarina surmises to Cassius in a mote of optimism. "Same buoyancy you found on ship, swaying with the waves, will be found on rock. Hopefully, no? I'll admit, I still feel as though I'm craddled somewhere amidst the sea some nights far removed from water." When Ford crosses into her line of vision, her eyes alight with muted pleasure, quietly raising her hand in wave toward him. "Marquis Kennex."

Larissa wanders around the party saying hello to everyone and making sure everyone has anything their little hearts desire. She wanders up to Calandra with a smile and winds an arm around her waist "Are you having fun darling?" she asks quietly

Lianne's unhurried, meandering steps draw to a stop when Abbas approaches. She keeps her verdant gaze on the plate-clad warlord, head held high and shoulders straight, with a far brighter expression than the one worn by the Thraxian prince. As he leans in, her lashes dip low, gaze obscured while she listens. Ever so faintly, her smile widens as she nods, head tilting that she might offer some quiet words of her own in exchange.

Ford puts on the breaks. Having his name called out by two people, he stops in his trek towards Lianne and redirects. First Niccolo, then Kat. He moseys over, taking another small drink from that glass of Fire, "Archduke, you've come out of your cave." He teases, extending his hand out towards his mentor/father figure of sorts. As he greets Nicc, he smiles over at Katarina and winks.

"Oh, quite a wonderful time, Dear Larissa." Calandra replies, puting her arm around Larissa with a bright smile, her attention shifting towards the little crowd, "I've actually been watching the revelers have quite the wonderful time, I'd say this party has been quite a grand success, and it's only barely been underway!"

"Before I forget," Katarina turns her gaze onto Belladonna and Lianne with a sheepish smile. "My sister, Princess Marian, sends warmest of wishes and regards." A subtle pause, her nails clinking lightly against the glass of a champagne flute cradled. "Apologies she could not make it, being in recovery from her last Rite of Gloria."

When she catches sight of Alrec, Belladonna lifts her glass to him, the smile she sends across the room one that's touched with something wry. It's brief though, her atention swinging back to those more immediately nearby, her eyes lifting to Cassius again when he covers her hand with his own. There's a quick smile offered up, before she's looking again to those nearby. Ian gets an easy sort of nod. "Thank you, Lord Kennex." A tip of her head, polite, and her eyes go to Juliana. She smiles. "Thank you," she says, offering another nod to go with the words. kat's words have her -- surprise surprise -- nodding that way. "Pass along our best wishes for her recovery," she says before she leans in to say something quietly to Cassius.

Larissa beams "Excellent. Thank you for helping" she murmurs quietly "And for singing, I'm a glutton. I could listen to you all day. Perhaps you need your own little pedestal to perch on here, our own little Nightingale" she croons out with one last squeeze as she moves over to speak to Belladonna and the crowd around her "Are you enjoying your party?" she asks of the Duchess before inclining her head and offering a curtsy to Niccolo "Duke Velenosa, good evening. Duke Cassius" she greets them each in turn.

Calandra follows along with Larissa as she heads over towards Belladonna, laughing softly at the other Whisper, "Well, you are the one who didn't have a pedestal brought in." She says, once they arrive at the Noblewoman and her little court she offers a curtsey herself, "My Lady, Happy Birthday." She says, then to the noblemen she says, "My Lords." A bright smile coming to her lips.

Alrec rolls his shoulders and is eyeing his rum a bit critically before he downs the rest of it. Evidently that particular glass full has just been meant to live a short life. He's acquiring another beverage sacrifice in short order, but perhaps to not take care of it so swiftly, he replaces the cigarillo between his lips. He catches sight of that lifted glass toward him though and, with his fresh one, he is lifting his in turn before inclining his head. Then, as though summoned, he begins to approach. There's no hurry in his step however and he's more than willing to wait by the sidelines for his turn.

Left by his lonesome for a while, Antonio finds a glass of wine to sip at, eyes flitting around the room, though they stop when he notes Ford talking to Niccolo. The prince heads in that direction, an amiable smile on his face.

His duty half complete, Ian withdraws with a bow of his head and re-orients on Lianne. He absolutely is not going to interrupt whatever conversation she's having with Abbas, though, and hangs back for a moment, as unobstrusive as someone with a gaze like his can be.

Niccolo takes the offered hand in a firm grip. "I do this on occasion," he quips back about the cave. "And today happens to be a very special one," he adds, with a look between Lianne and Belladonna. "Our dear Whispers," he looks in their direction now, with a hint of a smile, "have done very well today by my nieces." When Larissa approaches them, "Mistress Larissa. This is a very lovely party. You have my gratitude for doing this for my nieces."

Abbas listens to Lianne. His dreads curtain either side of the man's face and shield most of his reaction in the quiet conversation. Some words are yielded again back to Lianne. Cold steel adorned fingers lift and give a brief touch to Lianne's arm before it withdraws. A full-born smile finally breaks the prince's lips and he offers a final, "Happy birthday." And that's it. Abbas turns and starts on his way out of the party. The armored man somewhere along the way chucks the deuces. He (like Victus) does pilfer a drink on the way out. Some of the fire... and he uncorks it and starts drinking until he fades from view.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon arrives, delivering a message to Katarina before departing.

There's a bright laugh for Cassius's response to her, abrupt and out of nowhere. Belladonna flashes a grin up his way before looking to those nearby. "You all will have to excuse me; it has been delightful -- delightful, Softest Whisper, this is honestly the best birthday I have had. It's been perfect, thank you. Everyone else, good evening." She offers a few more quiet words to Cassius before she slips away from him, stepping over to meet Alrec and leaning in to speak with him quietly.

Juliana makes her way back to Antonio's side and leans in to murmur something quietly to him, her expression a little wan, though her lips are still curved in a smile.

Cassius leans in to the whispered words from his wife, some flash of relief registering on his features for whatever words await him. That relief makes the smiles her offers to both Katarina and to Larissa more somewhat more genuine. To the former her says, "I know you are a lover of the sea, Princess. Me? I'm a land-lubber, as the sailor's say. I'll be happy when my sea legs are gone." Then to the latter, he says, "Thank you for honoring my wife with this party," he says simply, hard-won words from the otherwise stoic man. With a final bow to Niccolo, he seizes the opportunity afforded by his wife to make his way toward the exit of the gardens.

Larissa sends Calandra a twinkling grin "Yet!" she promises "I've only just begun creating the Gardens. I have a hundred more ideas yet to come. It will have a life all it's own, this place. Ever growing, ever blooming." she says to the other Whisper before turning to Niccolo with a quiet smile "It was completely my pleasure." she insists. "They are both inspiring women" she insists and smiles as Anotnio comes to join them. -- When Belladonna announces she's leaving, Larissa offers a curtsy "Happy Birthdy, Duchess. It was a joy to plan. Don't forget your flowers!"

Sebastian has left the The Belladonna Wysteria Arbor Path.

Ford changes his firm grip with Niccolo to an affectionate clap on the shoulder, "It's good to see you out, I'm glad they let you out for a night." Then he moves over to sneak a kiss on Katarina's cheek before moving on.

Juliana has rolled a critical success!
Juliana checked dexterity + all at difficulty 9, rolling 11 higher.

Eventually, his wanderings concluded, Sebastian finds a place to le`ave his second glass and begins to make his way toward the exit, pausing by Larissa to compliment her on the impressive job on the party, and then without further ado, he makes his way out.

It looks like Antonio was juuust about to say something Ford when Juliana whispers to him. Instead, he turns toward her and murmers something in return.

And reminded of the flowers in general Larissa straightens up and calls out "We have put together several flower arrangements for you to take with you if you would like! They are near to the buffet in the large vase - Thank you all for coming tonight!" she calls

Larissa gets A Lush Bouquet of Flowers from Arx Botanical Gardens from A Large Vase full of Flower Bouquets - TAKE ONE.

Belladonna gets A Lush Bouquet of Flowers from Arx Botanical Gardens from A Large Vase full of Flower Bouquets - TAKE ONE.

There's no response from Alrec to Belladonna, or at least no murmured words. The Pravus Admiral simply takes two single steps back and moves into a most grand, sweeping bow. Done with a lift of his glass in one hand and that cigarillo still dangling from his lips. Excellent execution on his part. "Happy birthday, my Duchess," he says, keeping the hold for a stretch of time before he sweeps up, nods to her, and heads the opposite way.