Gino, a surly sailor arrives, following Antonio.

It is a beautiful and warm late summer night and the Hart's courtyard and hidden gardens are aglow with candles and paper lanterns creating an intimate and magical atmosphere for partygoers to meet and mingle, dance and explore the garden's many secret (and not so secret) places under the stars. Even the Hart's warm stone pools are alight with candles and floating lily lanterns, perfect for midnight swims.

There is not much pomp or ceremony in this event. It is more a relaxed atmosphere where everyone is welcome to take the party at their own pace, parting in excellent company, good food and drink, and exploring the gardens as they desire.

Valencia, dressed in sultry summer silks and her long dark waves swept up and held in place with silver pins with sweetly scented lover's kiss blossoms playfully tucked her and there, stands in the courtyard as guest arrive, smiling beautifully as she meets and greets her beloved guests, the little hostess careful to see that each is warmly received and well cared for.

Soft music fills the air and the enticing sultry scent of night blooming flowers drifts through the gardens creating warm and inviting ambiance teaming with possibilities and delights to come as the city bids adieu to another sweet summer.

Ian is pointed towards the garden by some of the staff inside, and makes his way there at a slow, careful pace, his attention entirely fixed on where he puts his feet. He doesn't look around him until he's in a place where he can stop walking. He pauses, leaning on his cane, and letting his gaze sweep over the entire area.

Ashe, the studious Stormward paralegal have been dismissed.

2 Kennex corsairs have been dismissed.

Octavia arrives sans her entourage tonight, and smiles warmly as she spots Valencia, an uncommon sight for anyone outside of her family. She offers the tiny woman a hug and whispers in her ear, then lets her handle the guests arriving. The judge wanders off into the garden, fingers tracing some of the flowers as she walks.

Serenade, a lovely nightingale arrives, following Calandra.

Reese arrives while adorned in pink sea silk. She is close to Luca and the two appear to have attended together. Luca is wearing a flowing silk shirt that is a bit rumpled, but this is Luca and he does the rumpled look well. Reese holds gently onto his arm. Once inside the lovely summer garden, she peeks over the area and has a smile of greeting for those gathered here.

Prince Antonio Velanosa enters, looking like he's had quite a time recently- someone or someones went to town on his face, though his wounds have clearly been tended to are are starting to mend, bruises fading, but the signs of what ever happened are still there. Indeed, the young man is just a little stiff in his movements as enters the courtyard, looking for his sister.

Being bored on a night such as this is such a shame... But thankfully, Asher doesn't need to be bored! The Hart is throwing a soiree, so he shows up. Unfortunately, he has no nice clothes for it. Just his leather armor, but it's been recently cleaned and touched up. When he arrives, he's wearing a jovial smile, and arms are wide to give Valencia a broad hug. It's quick, but friendly. "Thank you for holding this. I think most of the people need to relax lately. And with the King recovering, we can finally do so." That said, the man is hungry. If there's food, he'll excuse himself from talking for just a minute to go fill his gullet - but he has ears to hear himself talked at.

Valencia smiles and returns Octavia's hug affectionately, taking a moment to watch the woman as she slips off into the gardens an turnning to greet Ian as he arrives at the little summer soiree. She moves to him with a bright smile and offers a delicate hand. "My Lord Ian, please be so very welcome to my Hart. I am so glad you could attend. Won't you have a drink and please explore. My Hart is yours as ever," the little vixen beams, waving him towards the tables with another smile. Turning she smiles again to see her sweetest cousins Luca and Reese arrive, both get an excited kittenish hug, the little princess nearly bowling them both over with her enthusiastic welcome. Kisses are places on Luca and then Reese's cheeks. "I am so happy to see you both. Please, come. Enjoy. I will be with you shortly."

Alexis slips inside, the short Sword of Blancbier (thank you, Ansel) pausing, hesitating for a moment by the door. Underdressed compared to most of the nobles there, with a simple tunic and matching pants in Valardin blue. She's foregone both arms and armour tonight, though hovers along the wall. Giving nods of respectful greeting to Reese and Luca, and to Antonio and Valencia. The rest she studies with some curious interest.

Ian will take Valencia's hand briefly in his. He nods to her, but also doesn't take up any of her time, content to let her other guests sweep her away while he takes his time, standing in one place as he is, looking over the garden and the people.

The Blackwood ranger enters into the gardens, and she lets out a small breath of awe. It's a beautiful night as is, but the Hart has only made it more amazing. Erika smiles broadly to Valencia as she passes her, and as if she can't help herself she spins on the spot, attempting to take in the whole view, "Princess Valencia, you definitely know how to tend a garden, I can tell this is going to be wonderful evening." Her pine marten quickly takes to the trees, and she lets him enjoy himself on his own.

Reese leans into Valencia, wrapping her arms around the small princess. She tries to gently kiss against her cheek. "Princess Valencia, it is a pleasure to be here and to see you again. Thank you for throwing this party." She says in her direction. Reese then notices Alexis and she is given a smile of greeting that reaches her blue eyes.

Satisfied, eventually, in his slow scan of the garden, Ian returns his attention to his feet. He walks carefully to the table by the fountain (because that's the closest one), and is grateful to sit down and lean his cane against the table next to him.

Ian has joined the table by the fountain.

Kael arrives, following Reigna.

Hey, at least Luca the Lazy has shown himself for once. Of late, the Velenosan-turned-Grayson prince hasn't been oft-seen outside the training grounds or battlefields. Still, as he's sweeping in on arm of his blonde be-ribboned wife Reese, it's clear the laid-back duelist is here for the women in his life. For as he's stalking beside her, one hand draped over the pair of curved lycene sabers set stylishly into sash one one hip, he's smiling down first to Reese with a loving sort of patience and quipped quiet phrase, then looking out over the crowds to set eyes on his beloved cousin Valencia to cast a wink her way. See what he does for family! Out doing the social thing! He pauses initially at the doorway to see if she's busy, but quickly enough they're sweeping in towards her to get their quick hugs, the hostess earning a warm kiss on the cheek and a laughing quip in Luca's easy Lenosian accent. "Do your thing, darling. We'll make do. Wouldn't miss your soiree though, even with the heat making me want to nap!" With that, he's drawing aside to let others greet Valencia, nodding in turn to Alexis with relaxed air, then widening eyes looking past her to see his cousin Antonio's face, which draws a blurted exclamation. "Toni! What the Abyss man? I didn't do that to you in our training did I? I didn't think I was _that_ drunk for it!" Wait, he was that vicious and thorough a trainer when he was into his cups?

The little vixen, swept up in the magic of a final night of summer, returns Asher's hug, though her cheeks turn pink. "No, no. Thank you for coming. I am gad you are here, missere. So very very pleased," she offers him, taking a little glance over her shoulder as he slips off to find food. She blushes again, and turns back to see who else has arrived. The little fox stops and blinks as her brother comes into view and her mouth drops open as she sees his state. Her eyes fire with concern and she rushes to his side. "Antonio!! What happened?!! Who did this?!" she gasps, gently taking his arm, the questions come rapid fire as Valencia tries to find out what happend to her most beloved big brother.

Making his way into the garden, Lorien pauses at the entrance to take in the lanterns for a moment, just letting the scenery sink in. The huntsman is in his usuall dull greys and greens, but he wears no armor and bears no weapons to this event, seeming settled on merely enjoying the festivities. Waiting for a while as other guests take their turn to greet the Princess, he eventually approaches Valencia and bows before saying, "A work of art, Princess." He doesn't linger, however, making way for those who come after.

Into the Hidden Garden steps Calandra Whisper, the silk of her dress swishing ever so slightly with her steps, and a soft smile comes to grace her lips as she takes in the festive air that has been created for the Soiree. She moves further into the courtyard, attention shifting towards their hostess whom she approaches and offers an elegant curtsey, "Your Highness." She says, though any further greeting is absent as the Princess rushes off to check on Antonio.

Reese has joined the table by the fountain.

Luca has joined the table by the fountain.

Octavia just continues to wander through the gardens, the judge enjoying the bubbling noise of distant conversation and the smell of the summer's last flowers. Fingers trace a couple of the blossoms, but leave them in place for others to admire rather than plucking them from the vine.

Despite his appearance, Antonio seems to be high spirits, flashing Luca a grin when his cousin expresses his concern. "Oh, no, Luca," he says, laughing, "This isn't you at all- but I think if it hadn't been for your help, this would have been much worse." And before he can explain further, the Valencia Inquistion is on him, with her concerned questions. "I'm fine, darling sister, I'm fine. Just a little.. ah.. congraulatory party that maybe went too far."

Reese guides Luca toward the table by the fountain. She looks over to Antonio at Luca's words, seemingly just a bit concerned. He is given a smile of greeting as well. "Parties that go too far.." She says and gives Luca a smile. "You can probably relate." She takes a perching seat and smooths out the fabric of her pink dress.

Edward wanders in behind some of the latest arrivals and smiles seeing the gathering of people here. He gives the Prince of Grayson and his lovely wife, Reese, a nod if their attention drifts to him and then he smiles widely to Alexis. When he takes his attention around the garden and he spies the Northern Fox he begins to make his way towards her, "A pleasant turnout, Your Highness." he bows to her and then steps out of the way so others can meet and greet with her.

Takes a moment to offer polite greeting to Erikas as she arrives, a soft sweet look is offered towards her pine marten and she would likely be doting on it save for the condition of her brother's face and frame. Another nod and gracious smile is sent to Alexis as she arrives, the little princess so very delighted to see her as well, "You will pardon me for a moment as I see to this. I promise to join you presently, ladies," she offers sweetly.

The ranger has already lost herself amongst the trees and flowers, moving with a fluid grace between the trees that seems akin to dancing. But Erika's still within sight of the others who have gathered, and those serving drinks. She accepts a glass of wine before spotting Lorien, and she waves to him enthusiastically.

Ian has somehow acquired a glass of some strong liquor. Already. Without moving from his spot. It's like magic! Very calm, focused, stalwart, boring magic. So now he has something to take a sip of while he engages in the sport of people-watching. With his sharp eyes and unflinching gaze, it's probably the only sport he's good at, anymore. He nods to the Prince and Princess when they sit at the same table.

"Princess Valencia. Prince Antonio. Well met." Alexis offers by means of greeting to the two. Shooting Edward a smile, and sketching a small bow to him as well. Then she looks to Valencia again, giving a little nod. "Take as long as you need, Princess. I understand." And then she's slowly drifting through the garden, flashing a smile here and there. Considering Ian's glass and peering about to see where a similar one might be acquired.

Asher has his face stuffed - politely, he's no barbarian Shav - soon enough, watching and looking. Interested in all the goings-on, but not exactly wanting to get into anyone's personal space. Not just yet that is.

Valencia gives Antonio a bit of a looks but she leaves off the questions... nor now. Turning back, dark eyes catch Lorien's bown and she offers him a warm smile and a gracious incline of head. "You are so very kind, sir. Thank you for coming to my Hart," she offers allowing him to make his way into the party unhindered. Another smile is sent Calandra's way as the beautiful whisper passes by and then Edward arrives. The little vixen's eyes light up as he enters and she offers him a beautiful smile, offering him a delicate hand, "I am so very glad you here, my dearest Edward. Welcome," she smiles softly up at him.

Off to fetch a drink goes Calandra, collecting a glass from one of the staff serving the soiree and taking a light sip from it as she starts her way across the yard towards the tranquil stone pool, her gaze wandering across the floating lanterns that illuminate the pool.

Octavia comes back around to snag herself a glass of something to drink, then moves to stand near Ian's table. Definitely not looming over her injured cousin. "Ian, have you met Princess Reese and Prince Luca?" she asks, motioning across the table. "Your highnesses, our newest arrival from Stormward. Lord Ian took a nasty fall and has come to the city to recuperate."

Lorien catches sight of Erika's waving and he begins to move in her direction, smoothly making his way to where she stands with her drink. "Evening," he says to her with a smile and a tip of his head. "I see you've begun the celebrating. I should catch up." He looks out over those gathered, taking in the sight of those who have come to celebrate.

Kael steps out to the gardens, following the general mill of the crowd, though there is no doubting the curious look that he casts over his shoulder toward the main chamber of the establishment itself. That being said, when he is turning to regard the gardens itself -- with it's ambiance and glow of paper lanterns -- there is a moment where he just has to stop. His eyes travel across the trees, the little pinpoints of light, and he is murmuring a low, "How lovely," to the woman on his arm. That woman? It would be Reigna. His focus shifts momentarily to her, glancing across her features, then he ventures further in, eyes scanning the crowd.

Alexis, too, has gone to find a glass - and carries it with her, though she's yet to sip from it. Shooting Calandra a small smile as their paths intersect. "Hello," She offers by means of greeting. "Dame Alexis Wyrmfang, Sword of Blancbier. Well met. Your dress is very lovely."

Jan strides in, officer's coat rakishly undone by a few buttons. Current mood: merry! Her smile has very possibly been enhanced by a little pre-func. She looks around sharkishly for a face or three in particular.

Reese lifts her gaze to Octavia when she draws near and gives her a smile of greeting that touches her blue eyes. "Oh, I have had that pleasure, but I don't believe that Luca has, Lady Octavia. Your family is growing and seems to be on the rise." She says gently in her direction.

There has been a bit of a polite scuffle over at the table by the fountain, with Luca handing Ian back his almost-knocked-over cane. So yeah, they've clearly just met. Ian nods to Octavia. "Good evening, my lady."

Edward's able to grab a drink as well from a passing Hart uniformed servant and he stands over near Valencia and Antonio while he drinks it. He smiles and notes the movements of people while he stays near the Host and Hostess.

Ian says something else more quietly to Luca, at the table.

Erika beams up at him before taking a sip of her wine, "Indeed you should. It's good to see you here." She looks out over the garden, admiring the lanterns hanging from the trees and the ones floating across the pools, "It's beautiful isn't it? It feels serene, care free." She gives a happy twirl again before waving towards those serving drinks, "You should get one!"

Luca was just in process of having tripped over Ian's propped cane and both men having viper-quick grabbed for the thing before it fell when Octavia's words catch Luca's attention, turning that lopsided, somewhat rueful, grin her way with a nod. "Ribbons was just introducing us, but thanks Tavia." No Luca really, REALLY doesn't know Octavia well enough to be mangling her name. But at least he's known for doing it to most people he's not outright hostile to. The whole 'fallen' thing though has earned Ian an assessing sort of look again, though without any pity or overt curiosity about it thankfully.

Eyes wide, Reigna takes in all the glory of the courtyard, the paper lanterns, flowing pools and lights within the trees. She stands at Kael's side, a hand on one of his leather bracers. She moves with care, on hand holding her skirt delicately so the lace gown doesn't drag along the floor and get dirty. She looks around, spying Lorien and points him out to Kael, "Your cousin is here. We should say hello to the hostess and perhaps see if we can join Lorien?"

Charlemagne the Unicorn arrives, following Larissa.

Octavia takes a sip of her drink and looks over towards the door, smirking at who she spots and waving Jan over. "You're quite correct, Princess Reese. Kennex is a rising star. I think we have great things in our future." Luca's comment draws the woman's piercing gaze back to him, along with a clipped, "I was unaware that we were that familiar, Prince Luca."

Octavia has joined the table by the fountain.

Calandra turns her attention towards Alexis as she moves to greet her, offering a warm smile towards the woman, "Calandra Whisper, it is nice to meet you Dame Alexis." She says, gesturing out towards the pool with her free hand, "The Lighting is rather spectacular, isn't it? The Princess has outdone herself with the decorations for this party, I think."

Jan snags a glass of something from a tray being carried off in the opposite direction and has a drink without bothering to see what it is as she zeroes in on her wave over.

Jan has joined the table by the fountain.

"The entire place is spectacular," Alexis admits, with a bright grin. And now she sips her wine. Giving an eager little nod. "Princess Valencia has an excellent eye, I find." She muses. "An honour to meet you, mistress Whisper - do you know many of the guests?"

Reese smiles over to Jan when she joins them. She seems to know her at least a little bit. She has the grace to blush when Octavia speaks to Luca. "He does that." She murmurs and gives Luca's side a playful poke.

Larissa arrives fashionably late and gasps in delight at all the many lanterns drifting above them and the pools alight with flickering candles. "Oh.." she gasps "Princess Valencia, how lovely!" she exclaims, moving first to the Velenosian Princess and offering a curtsy "What a splendid idea and the perfect send off to a gorgeous summer." she murmurs as she glances around, brightening at the sight of Calandra who recieves a happy wave. She offers waves and hellos to everyone else she knows as well.

"Cousin, it's so good to see you. Ford told me you were in town," Octavia offers to Jan as she sits down. "You've probably met Lord Ian, and this is Princess Reese and Prince Luca, of Grayson."

Antonio gets off light! Even though he knows he'll probably have to answer to Valencia later, he'll take the win for now. Nodding greetings to those who greet him, the prince moves a little bit away, to settle down by himself.

"Nice to see you as well," Lorien says to Erika and turns to look out over the lanterns again, nodding his head in agreement. He watches her twirl with one brow raised, an amused smile on his lips, and then he says "I think I shall," before finding a glass of wine of his own. "I don't usually drink wine, but.. this is the time and opportunity to try new things, after all." Then he sees Kael and Reigna and he lifts his glass in their direction in greeting

A little smiles is sent Octavia and Ian's way as they speak to Luca and Reese. Turning back, the little fox smiles to see Count Kael arrives with the beautfiul Reigina on his arm. "Weclome to my Hart," she smiles sweetly up to them as approach. "Please be comfortable. Whatever you need. Please ask, yes." she offers garciously. Another smile is offered Edward's way and then her brothers, followed by a little shake of head, "You will explain, beloved brother," she says finally, leaving off for now. The little southern princess turns and her eyes fall upon the rakish and radiant Jan says she cruises through the crowd and the little princess cannot help but smile. "Lady Jan, I am so very glad you are here. Welcome back to my Hart. I take it you have left sack at home for tonight, yes?" she grins playfully, turning to offer Larissa a warm and affectionate hug and kiss upon her cheek. "Yes, my sweetest Larissa, you are very much so. Thank you for coming," she smiles allowing the woman to mingle at her pleasure.

Asher has joined the table by the fire.

Luca looks utterly perplexed by Octavia's chill gaze and comment, head canted to side like a dog hearing something he doesn't understand. A thing that grows worse when Reese comments and pokes at him, earning her a glance and a smirking. "Does what?" He really couldn't be _that_ obtuse could he? Well, whatever the case, he's shrugging and offering the Thraxian lady with a shrug. "Well, no insult meant. And just Luca. It's a party for the gods sake. It's a time of relaxing." With that, he's turning his attention to Ian, looking over the man's leg and then launching into a little tale that outliers might hear has something to do with having been flung across the open sea onto a smuggler ship.

Erika spots Kael and Reigna, and she waves over to them with a warm smile before she turns back to Lorien, giving a small chuckle, "I usually don't drink wine either, but it's worth a try, certainly." She takes a drink before swaying on the spot slightly, icy blue eyes scanning the garden curiously before she turns back to him, "Do you want to sit down or...?" She leaves it open ended, shrugging her shoulders.

When Reigna is pointing out Lorien, Kael's focus goes to the other man and he is lifting his chin. A hand moves up in idle gesture as well, by way of greeting, though he does not venture just there. "Yes," he murmurs, his voice a low thing to speak to the woman near him. "That is a fine plan. Ah--" a pause before he's murmuring, voice lowering just a touch, "I believe we are looking for Princess Val--" Yet there she is! Kael is promptly ceasing his speech, evidently able to put two and two together. "Thank you, your highness. Your Hart is a very lovely thing." He does not pursue the hostess, but rather he is tipping his head toward Lorien, raising his brow to Reigna in silent query.

Calandra offers a little wave of her fingers back towards Larissa, followed by a bright smile before she nods back at Alexis. "Oh yes, several of them, most by reputation of course." She adds before taking a little sip from her own drink. "I shall hopefully get to know a few more before the night is over though!"

"Well." Alexis muses, offering her arm to Calandra. "Perhaps you can make some introductions, and I can make some, and we will both come away from this night with new friends?"

Ian turns all of his considerable attention to Luca, fixing him with his impossibly blue eyes and just -listening-. Ian listens with the same focus that he uses for everything else. Without watching him closely, it'd be hard to read in his graven expression whether he's a polite audience, or whether this tale really is welcome.

Titus, a young wolfhound arrives, following Gaston.

Drive by Princessing! Reigna blinks as Valencia approaches as if summoned by the partial speaking of her name. "Thank you your highness! Your establishment is so lovely, I can barely believe it! Definitely one of the most beautiful places in all of Arx!" The words barely make it out before the busy hostess is on her way, though Reigna offers a wave. She looks back to Kael with a little smile before looking over to Lorien and waving as he lifts his drink. "Shall we go say hello to him and Lady Blackwood?"

With Valencia distracted, Antonio makes good his escape. An appearance was made, he played the part of the good brother, but now.. its time to rest.

Gino, a surly sailor leaves, following Antonio.

Valencia smiles up at Kael and then Reigena and offers a wam incline of head, her dark eyes glimmering with delight in the lantern light. "You are so very kind to say so, my lord. Thank you to you and your lady for finding way to it this beautiful night. I hope it is the first of many times I see you all here," the little princess invites graciously, looking from Kael to lovely Reigna, the ratehr dashing Lorien, enchanting Erika and then back again.

"No," Lorien says to Erika with a little sidelong smile. "No sitting. It's not a night for sitting, but perhaps walking, dancing, but not yet sitting. Perhaps after more wine." Then he offers his arm and begins to move with her in the direction of Kael and Reigna after they've made their greetings to Valencia. He smiles once more to the Princess as they draw closer once more before greeting Kael and Reigna, "Good evening, my Lord, my Lady."

Gaston stalks into the gardens, his feral eyes roving about at those present, boring into the party goers and overall staring too long for comfort, his head cocked to one side, then the other. A seemingly hungry slasher's smile on his lips, as he nods to those he knows, one hand idly scratching his hounds ears.

Jan waves over at Valencia from the table by the fountain. "You'll just have to find out where the sack is later!" she promises.

Erika takes Lorien's arm as he leads her over to his family, offering a hum in agreement, "Indeed, I admit I was hoping you'd decline the offer to sit." She smiles up at him before offering a curtsy to Kael and Reigna, "A pleasure to see you both again! Hopefully this time I might stick around a little longer."

Octavia rolls her eyes slightly and teases, "Jan, please stop pillaging our allies. It's hard enough to get the drylanders to like us." She then motions towards Valencia and waves her over. No rush, but whenever the tiny princess has a chance.

Edward smiles as he steps up next to Valencia now that all have been greeted and he smiles to her, "It looks like the Hart is quite popular this evening, Your Highness." he grins watching the Kennexes interact with the Graysons and he sips his drink. He glances to Valencia, "Perhaps we should find someone who wishes to host something like a Fall gala with the change of season and maybe bring in a change of fashion."

"I am certain that we shall, your highness," says Kael with ease in return to Valencia. "And when Keaton Hall finally finishes constructed, we shall have to have you over for dinner." He tips his head toward the hostess, then takes a step toward Lorien and Erika, but they've already started toward him. "Good evening, the pair of you. Lovely-- no, I have used that word already. Enchanting in here, is it not? I am glad that we decided to attend, and more glad to see friendly faces."

"I am fascinated at the concept of games of chance, Your Highness, and I heard that this is actually run as a charity organization?" Reigna's brows lift, seeming quite impressed by the Princess' largesse. As Lorien arrives, Reigna offers a hand to him a brief touch, a familial type thing as she smiles to him, "Lord Lorien, so good to see you! And you as well, Lady Erika." Reigna's usual reserve is a little looser tonight, allowing more of her internalize warmth out. Her smile is trying so hard to be friendly and she's almost succeeding. "I am glad to hear it, my lady. I see you've found good company again?"

"That sounds like a great idea, Dame Alexis." Calandra says to the woman with a warm smile and a nod of her head, her attention shifting out across yard a little, "Why don't we begin with the folk you know, then we can see about making introductions to everyone else?"

"Oh come on, half of what's good that comes out of the Isles is their pillaging fun!" Luca quips back loudly enough to carry in defense of Octavia's chiding her cousin, then declaring in sotto voce not-whisper to the table well enough to carry still further. "The other half is their wonderful rum!" Which he's putting proof to having ordered a double helping of such for himself which he's raising up with a big grin as if in toast to them all.

"Very well." Alexis says, the short knight giving another incline of her head - and starting towards the table at the fountain where Luca and Reese have settled with Ian, Octavia and Jan. "Admittedly," She notes. "I only know Princess Reese and Prince Luca, over there. But I hope that they'll take pity on us and make introductions of their tablemates." She suggests. Then she offers a small bow, as they reach the group. "Princess Reese Grayson, Prince Luca Grayson. May I present Calandra Whisper of Whisper House. Mistress Whisper, may I present Prince Luca and Princess Reese." She beams bright, and offers a bow to the others at the table. "Dame Alexis Wyrmfang, Sword of Blancbier. Honoured to meet you all." A beat. "Perhaps the Prince or Princess would do us the honour of introductions?"

"I should be very honoured to join you, Count. And in turn, perhaps we might have chance for a smaller dinner to speak," Valenica nods sweetly. The metion of games and charit bring another smile to the little vixen's eyes. "Yes, the Hart raises spirits and funds for good causes. There is much work that needs to be done and I should like to help. I would be very happy to speak of it with you. We are always looking for those who would like to help in good deeds, my lady. Will you join me for drinks sometime and we shall chat?"

Valencia turns and laughs softly at Jan's word, "Promises, promises," she teases back with a little grin and she is off again to greet Gaston as he arrives. "My Lord Gaston, I am so very, very happy you are here. Won't you please come in. I think there are many you know here, yes? Dame Alexis, I think?" the little princess muses as her eyes scan the crowd. Octavia's wave is noted and she nods.

Ian's usually graven expression softens with amusement at something that Jan says to him. Really, it's just Jan. That's the only reason. Luca, sitting right next to him, has -nothing- to do with it. Or the quirk of a smile. Nothing to do with that, either.

Ford makes his way into the hidden gardens and sees a whole bunch of people. Many more people than he actually recognizes, but that's cool. He continues on and gravitates towards the other Kennexeseses.

Reese has a gentle smile for Alexis and Calandra as they draw closer. "Oh, I had the pleasure to met Calandra Whisper and hear her sing previously today. What a lovely voice" She says softly and then pauses for a moment. "I would be happy to give introductions." She adds. "This is Lady Octavia, a judge of house Kennex and a sharp minded woman. And this is Lady Jan, a wild sea bound woman of a warrior and I believe you know the Lord Ian already?"

"It is," Lorien agrees, a warm smile spreading ove rhis features. When Reigna's hand is offered, he catches it lightly and gives her fingers just a slight squeeze in greeting before releasing them. "I did notice the games of chance. Perhaps on another evening we might explore them?" It's a question directed to those around him on the whole and not one singular individual. When Valencia explains that the games raise funds for good causes, he looks impressed and says, "Interesting."

Gaston's intense look turns to Valencia then, as she greets him, nodding, his sharp smile growing. "Ah, Your Highness, a pleasure as always... Aye, I am familiar with Dame Alexis." Looking about, "And... Princess Reese as well. I've met Count Kael and his wife Reigna in passing, and Goodman Asher momentarily--He apparently is cousins with the man who owns the Murder that Dame Serafine is so fond of, it seems--and Lady Octavia as well... The others, I don't believe I have had the please, as of yet."

Reese has a smile for Gaston as she hears her name. She then peeks between Luca, Jan and Ian. A giggle escapes from her lips.

Octavia looks down at her glass with a smirk at Jan and Luca's antics, but careful inspection might reveal that the expression doesn't quite reach her eyes. However, it's Reese's introduction that causes her to speak again, perhaps a bit nettled by the omission. "I am the King's chief magistrate now, Princess Reese," she reminds.

Ian looks up from making a droll remark at his table and nods his head once, either agreement that yes, they have met, or a greeting to someone who he has yet to meet. Because Ian? Ian is communicative. He takes a sip from his glass.

Ford comes around to stand behind Octavia as the plethora of introductions are being made.

Reese turns her attention to Octavia. "Oh, my apologies, King's chief Magistrate, Lady Octavia." She has a smile of greeting for Ford as he draws near.

Larissa stands back quietly watching everyone hum and buzz around her and she simply enjoys the sight of it. Valencia was a marvel to behold as she moved from group to group and person to person, ever a beacon of light and grace and warmth. She notices the group huddled around Ian and offers him a nod and has to suppress as smile as someone was scolded for stealing. She made a note to herself to seek out Jan at a later date because that just sounded like fun right there. Then her attention is caught by Gaston and she steps forward "I am Larissa Whisper, Softest Whisper of Whisper House. I believe I've seen you in passing but never had the opportunity to make introductions. A pleasure to meet you my Lord...?" she trails off with a question in her voice

Jan folds her arms and regards the new arrivals with a sharklike grin. "Lady General Jax Kennex of the Kennex Corsairs," she introduces herself with no lack of swagger. "Dame Alexis, Calandra, pleasure to meet you. Don't worry, I'm not /that/ wild. Unless you like it that way."

"Your Highnesses." Calandra says as she offers a curtsey to the group Alexis leads her over to, "A pleasure to see you again, Princess." She adds with a warm smile before her attention turns to Luca, "Prince Luca, it is very nice to meet you." Her attention then shifts towards the others as Reese gives introductions, "Lady Octavia, Lady Jan, Lord Ian." She greets each in turn.

Valencia smiles up at Gaston and nods, "Please, my lord My heart is yours. Whatever you need please ask." she offers, givig the hound by the man's side an affectionate scartch behidn the ears before moving to speak to Octavia, pausing to greet Marques Kennex with a bright smile and an offer of a delicate hand. "My dearest Marquis, I am so glad you are here. I am so pleased to have so many Kennex's in my Hart I am near bursting. Come, I was about to join your sister," she ays continuing on her way to Octavia's side. "You called, my sweetest Lady Octavia? How may I help?"

Luca's laughing to something said by Ian at the table and quipping back lightly. "Well you Kennex do all look alike, but I think you both stand out a bit too much for that." In turn he's missing Alexis and Calandra's approach. The greeting of his wife under his arm turning to them brings the brash Champion prince to turn cinnamon eyes that way though, lighting up with familiarity and amusement as he offers back. "No worries Lexi, I know Pretty Eyes from her days before she followed her songbird voice to Whisper House." This apparently in reference to Calandra, to whom he's winking roguishly as of old, saying jovially after to both women. "Good to see you both again though."

"Chief Magistrate Lady Octavia, Lady General Jan. Lord Ian." Alexis echoes Calandra, and offers a small bow in turn. Giving Valencia a nod as she arrives, and quirking a brow at Luca, giving a casual little shrug. "We're doing a round of introductions," She explains to the people seated at the table.

Ian braces one hand on the surface of the table and half rises to greet Ford, now that there's a moment to do so. "Marquis."

Octavia takes another sip of her glass, then motions her brother over to her side so that she can whisper something in his ear. When Valencia arrives, she smiles again and replies, "Oh, I just wanted to be sure you had met all of our ragtag family, but it seems that you have. Either that, or Jan has taken to ransacking people before she gets to know them, which isn't like her at all."

Kael actually grins in turn toward Lorien, remarking, "Only if we are good at said games of chance. Though I suppose that I can put the blame on the pair of us if we lose all of Keaton's funds, rather than shouldering it myself. I-- oh, charity?" Kale is promptly clearing his throat. "Then, most humbly, we will play and favor will be upon us no matter the outcome." He catches his name being said, turning, and then notes Gaston with first a lift of his chin, followed by inclination of his head. It's peculiar, but it works. Then, to the small group near him, he offers, "There's a nice tree over there, lit up by lamps. Shall we step out of the way?" He's already guiding Reigna the few steps necessary to settle there.

Kael has joined the shady tree.

i "I would be honored, your highness." Reigna drops into a curtsy as she answers Valencia. Her lace gown is humble, but it seems to suit her, and is lovingly made. "She smiles brightly to the Princess before looking back to Lorien and Erika, before looking over to Gaston when she hears her name. She offers a bit of a smile and a wave of her hand.

Reigna has joined the shady tree.

A nod given from Gaston towards Reese at the smile, and the Blackram prowls further into the gardens, before he's approached by Larissa, and then she's the subject of his feral stare. "Gaston," he rumbles in supply. "Gaston Blackram, of Cloudspine. I'm certain the pleasure is entirely mine. I don't believe I've actually met a Whisper before, as it happens. We don't get too many visitors of any sort however, up in the mountains," he admits.

Ford sets his hand at the back of Octavia's shoulders as he stands behind her, nodding once slightly to Ian, "Have a seat."

Kael and Reigna, also of course receive nods from Gaston as they greet him!

Erika is suddenly brought a letter, and she gives a low growl of frustration, though she seems more disappointed than anything else. "I'm sorry, I must go." She looks up to Lorien apologetically, then over to Kael and Reigna. She waves farewell to them before looking up to him again, "Have fun and all that, until next time." She curtsies in Valencia's direction before calling for Osmond, and the two take off at a quick trot, the ranger looking rather embarrassed.

"Hey, that is slanderous." She knows legal words, too. "I only ransack people if they're /portable/," Jan complains to Octavia. "About up to here or shorter." She holds her hand out flat at about Valencia or Alexis' height. "Otherwise it's too much of a production to get them into the sack."

Osmond the Pine Marten have been dismissed.

Lorien watches as Erika receives her message and he inclines his head to her as she heads off. "Another time," he says and then turns back toward Kael with a chuckle, "I would not leave you alone to carry the blame, Cousin." But then there is mention of stepping out of the way and he nods, making his way toward the shaded tree and out of the main pathway.

Lorien has joined the shady tree.

Larissa glances over at Ford when he arrives and she wiggles fingers in his direction before turning her gaze back to Gaston "Well, that's excuse enough for when you're in the mountains I suppose. But now that you're here we will have to work on rectifying that, will we not?" she asks "And it is a pleasure to meet you Lord Gaston of Cloudspine - so no, the pleasure isn't entirely yours. That would be selfish of you and you don't have the look of a selfish man" she teases "Forgive me for not knowing, but what Vassalge does Cloudspine have?" she asks, unsure which House he fell under.

"That's kidnap, not ransack," Octavia notes to Jan, before taking a sip of her drink. Her expression leaves it entirely up to interpretation whether she's joking around or being serious - though the Kennexes probably know.

Valencia blinks a moment and looks up at the braze but beautiful Jan and promptly bursts into laughter. "I should think I would like to offer at least some resistance to being sacked," she grins shaking her head. "Such words," she teases. Turning she tries to catch Edward's eye and beckons hi to join them.

Dagon arrives fashionably late. Or it might be a bit too late for that, so just late-late. Besides, he's never been the sort to obsess much over fashion! Still, he makes a point of making an appearance anyway. And so the man goes wandering through the gathering, looking for and, when he finds them, greeting friendly faces. So there's smiles for Reese and manly upnods for Gaston, and well, just kind of 'hey I see you all the time' looks for the various Thrax. Last but far from least, the hostess, Valencia getting a smile as he tracks her down. "Princess."

Alexis quirks a brow at Jan. "...Please don't put me in a sack. I'd feel obliged to resist. And I would prefer not to get into an altercation." the tiny knight offers to the Lady General. "And I'd feel obliged to assist the Princess as well," She notes, looking over at Valencia

Ian wasn't about to get all the way up, so he's sitting back down a little bit before Ford tells him to. But the thought is there. "You've done it at least once. Porter told me about the tavern and the pirate that smelled like rotten cod," he tells Jan, perfectly serious. "I think kidnapping was the word he used, yes."

Reese leans into Luca's hold, curling up against him while nursing her glass of white wine. She seems to be in a cheerful mood. When Dagon arrives, she has a smile of greeting for him that touches her blue eyes.

Edward continues to shadow Valencia watching her and the greetings that she receives. He smiles and inclines his head to those who come up to her while he remains just off her shoulder with his hands tucked behind his back.

Luca's just laughing and relaxed and chatting up those who come nearby while sprawling with arm around Reese. The comment from Alexis about the sack sets the poor Champion Prince to choking on his rum though, having just suppressed an explosive laughter that would have sprayed a goodly bit of it over Jan if he hadn't taken it up his nose instead and set to coughing suddenly. Teary-eyed and laughing after as he wipes at his face with a nearby napkin, he gives Alexis a faux-accusatory look as if she said that on purpose to nearly drown him, despite it being more likely she meant every word of it.

Jan hrmphs at Octavia as she offhandedly grabs another glass from a passing tray and drinks half of it without looking. "Hmm! Zippy," she comments before shaking her head at Octavia. "It's not kidnapping if it's catch and release," she counters before grinning brightly at Alexis. "Oh, you'd have a great time if I got you in the sack," she declares confidently. "And we're not talking about the tavern and the pirate right now, Ian!"

"I suppose we shall indeed," Gaston chuckles lightly. "Oh, you'd be surprised. I'm told I was quite selfish as a small boy, but... I suppose you are right. That seems to have softened in time, which is only for the better, certainly. It's a poor man who drives away of the company of others for his own desires," he remarks. Dagon's upnod receives a masculine nod in return, before he turns to answer Larissa's question. That's no great surprise, really. We don't tend to come down into the lowlands much, and our lands are mostly surrounded by the Shavarvani. Blackram as it happens bends the knee to Telmar, and in turn to Valardin."

Titania comes walking in looking around she is in a very pretty white and violet off the shoulder dress with her hair handing down with small ringlits in it. Her ocean blue eyes look around as she stands in the entrance, her hands are at her side.

Ian gives Jan a brief flash of a smile, and takes up his drink again. Not to drink, mind. He just holds it like he's considering taking another sip.

Valencia offers a bright smile to Alexis and a warm nod, "And I should of course feel that I would have to offer aid, though I am by no means a fighter of any note, but what I lack in skill I make up for in tenacity," she grins, with a little smile Luca's way as her beloved cousin would know such. Finally, the little vixen is able to secure her own drink from an attentive member of the Hart's staff and there is the dashing Duke Dagon arriving on scene. There is a bright smile as he arrives and she turns to greet him with a warm incline of heand and an offer of a delicate hand. "My dearest Duke, I am so very happy to see you. Thank you for finding your way into my Hart. Please be welcome," she smiles up at hime, almond-shaped eyes glimmering brightly.

Octavia just flashes Jan the sort of look full of "are you serious?" before taking another sip of her drink, then whispering to her brother once more. Titania gets a wave over once Octavia spots her. The Kennex Party is getting more Kennexed.

Calandra takes a drink from her glass as she listens to the little exchange, flashing a slight smile, "How have you been, Prince Luca?" she asks, her attention shifting towards him, "It feels like it's been forever since we last visited."

Reese murmurs softly to Luca. The two are sitting with the Kennexes. She peeks over to Valencia. "Oh, the number of warriors wanting to champion you if there was a need would be so intense. I know I would be on that list." She says, but likely didn't fully catch what Valencia was speaking of.

For everyone looking like they're having a good time, Ford looks like he's... not. It's possible he hasn't even smiled since arriving, but he keeps leaning over to speak quietly with Octavia.

"Let's see..." Alexis murmurs. "Duke Dagon Tyde, a pleasure. Have you met Calandra Whisper?" Alexis offers, continuing her introductions. Shooting Luca a slightly confused look. Because yes, of course the tiny Oathlands Knight is being entirely straightfaced and earnest. Then, she nods in the direction of Larissa and Gaston. "I haven't met her, but the man is Lord Gaston Blackram. And that is Master Edward Redreef," She explains, gesturing to the man next to Valencia. Just in case Calandra hasn't had the chance to meet any of those. "...I think that's everyone I know."

Titania spots her cousins and heads in their direction a soft smile on her face, "Lady Octavia, Marquis Ford." she looks to them both her head tilting to the side watching them both then looking around.

Ian settles into his usual habit of letting the conversation flow around him and watching. Every shift of his focus from person to person has the force of intention behind it; there are no casual glances from Ian.

Reese has a sheepish smile for Alexis at her reaction. When Titania draws close to their table, she gives her a smile of greeting. "A please to see you, Lady Titania.""

"Honestly I don't know that I can stay long," Dagon admits, smiling quite readily as Valencia turns to greet him, and taking the offered hand for a suitably knightly kiss. "But I heard you were hosting something here and thought it would be remiss of me not to at least stop by and make the rounds, say hello, and so forth. It looks like quite the gathering. Though, ah, is ti for the Hart itself or are you merely hosting some other function? It looks like there's a great many of my kinsmen here." And then there's Alexis, who he'd missed in his first go-around but turns to offer a bow of his head. "Likewise Dame Alexis. It's been a little while, ah..." and he turns as she in turn introduces him to the Whisper. "I've been by the House a time or two, although not recently."

"Don't stare at people like you're going to eat them, Ian." Ford says.

Octavia is having a rather animated, if whispered, discussion with her brother, which she cuts off long enough to welcome Titania to the table, and then to look at Jan and simply arch a brow.

At the mention of his name Edward smiles to Alexis and the woman that he is speaking to. He inclines his head to her, "Thank you Dame." he says to Alexis, "Her and I met my first week in Arx but it was not that memorable of an encounter." he gives Calandra a warm smile, "A pleasure." and then he gives a nod to Dagon before he turns and continues to walk with Valencia, sipping his drink he says something to her softly.

Again caught referring to something at table, Luca almost misses the comment from Calandra, to whom he's grinning that lopsided quirk of a handsome smile. "It indeed has, Pretty Eyes. Never enough time. I hope you're doing well with the Whispers though. Certainly you had more of a chance to use your songs than at the Murder."

Larissa lifts her head in understanding "Oh I see, yes. I'm not terribly familiary with the Valardin House myself. So what occasion has brought you to us?" she asks curiously as she winds her arm through his and begins walking, letting him dictate where it is they shall go and whom he wishes to speak to. "I'd love to learn more about them. I had the pleasure of attending the festival last night, it was absolutely charming. Were you able to stop by?" she asks conversationally efore an abrupt bark of laughter is enticed by Ford at his comment to Ian "Oh let him" she chides over to the Kennex Marquis "It adds an air of mystery. It's very becoming on him" she insists.

"May I join you?" she waves to Jan and Ian as well look! all the Kennex well almost all in one place! She smiles looking to Dagon and waves to the Duke. "Hello Duke Dagon."

Ian automatically bows his head in apology to Ford, but the fact that he goes right back to what he was doing suggests that he has no clear understanding of what the Marquis was trying to tell him not to do.

Valencia seems so very happy to have introductions made so that all may know one another. She takes a well deserved sip of wine, and turns dark smiling eyes to each guest to ensure that they are happy and well cared for. Ford gets a little pause but he is speaking with Octavia now and she does not intrude. A bright smile is offered to Titania as she arrives, a little hug and light kiss upon her cheek is offered as she passes. Turning back to Dagon she smiles up at him gently, "I am so glad you did. I am always happy to be in your company, my dearest Duke. And for tonight it is for the sake of good company. A little kiss goodbye to the summer season and hello to a beautiful fall. But if you are wishing to continue to support my Hart, I do have a little project I am working on," she replies mischievously. "But truly, tonight is about pure pleasure. I do hope that if you finish up your business tonight you might return? As always you are very welcome."

"Oh, I don't know. I think people of all walks of life enjoy hearing someone sing." Calandra says with a smile at Luca, "But it the Whisper house been very kind to me, and gives me a broader audience." She agrees before her attention turns back towards Alexis, "That is Larissa Whisper, a good friend of mine." She replies to Alexis' words before moving on to greet the Duke, "My Lord Tyde, a pleasure to meet you." a smile is then cast Edwards way, along with a slight nod of her head.

Gaston nods again, walking with Larissa, letting that savage glare swim through the crowd, never resting aside from the occasional too long stare. He seems to be heading towards a stand of trees, a tension seeming to flow from him once there. "I suppose that depends on if by us you mean Arx, or rather tonight's gathering, doesn't it?" A bite-marked hand makes it way up to scratch at his scarred face, and a nod of recognition to Alexis as he hears her speak his name. "Unfortunately, I had business that kept me from it, but I wish I had been able to attend. I've not had much chance to speak to Duke Laurent outside of the attack on Prince Edain, and that was hardly pleasant conversation."

Gaston has joined the stand of trees.

Larissa has joined the stand of trees.

Ford slides his hand from Octavia's shoulder blades and takes a few steps back, hoping to slip out before anyone notices his departure.

Larissa look stand

The little vixen smiles adoringly at the gathered guests, her eyes sincerely delighted at the quaity of people in her Hart at this very moment. She coughs gently to get the attention of those closed, "If I may, I would like to offer a toast to you," she asks sweetly, raising her glass. "Thank you so much for coming and saying in my Hart and my heart. To have you hear means so much to me. And so, here's to life, luck and love.... to beautiful people, friend, family and lovers. To many more sweet summers together and many more beautiufl falls. I thank you from my heart.. to you all!"

Valencia claims this

"Ah, that does seem the thing, reasonably enough," Dagon agrees. "We do seem at the cusp of various changes, not just in the seasons, but everywhere, between the treaty and the King's recovery and the wedding and everything else. Ends to old strife, beginnings to new friendships and so forth. I am personally quite heartened by all of it. Though I will miss the warmer months, for purely practical reasons." Then he tilts his head. "What sort of project, or just the usual? You know I'm always quite ready to help out. And, well, I don't know how my schedule will play out the evening. But I did at least what to say my hellos." And in the spirit of that: "Lady Titania, nice to see you again. I trust things are... well?" Perhaps oddly, he asks that as if he's not 100% certain they are, compared to the usual purely conversational sort of inquiry. "Or at least, not too dramatic." A small grin. Then toward Calandra again: "I can trust the Whispers to be well represented whenever there's a party. Larissa seems as much a fixture at Thrax gatherings as any of our own, I think, and even the Radiant has shown up to a few." And then with Valencia toasting, he looks around to find someone with a drink he can steal to join in. "Hear, hear."

Octavia rises from her chair, nodding once to Gaston as she notices him. "I am afraid I have court business to attend to in the morning. Princess Reese, Prince Lu, Titania, Ian, Jan... try not to steal Valencia's stuff, we want her to invite us back." With that, she excuses herself to say goodbye to their hostess.

When Valencia makes her toast, Lorien turns and raises his glass in the Princess' direction, lofting and then drinking his agreement. Then he continues speaking with Kael and Reigna beneath the shady tree, though he looks out over the room and his eyes alight here and there on one individual or another, studying them for a moment or two.

Reese looks over to Octavia. "Take care, Lady Octavia." She say sin her direction.

From his spot under the shady tree, Keaton turns towards the gracious host when there's that cough made and she is on the cusp of a toast. That lift of her glass is prompt enough, and he is ceasing his quiet conversation with his two companions. There's no glass in his hand, but he is squaring up his shoulders, lifting his chin, and focusing in on Valencia. When the toast is complete, he lifts his hands and applauds in response.

Alexis, too, raises her glass. "To sweet summers, and new beginnings." She agrees. "May Lagoma's blessing aid us in our growth."

Jan wiggles fingers affectionately in Octavia's direction. "Good night!" she calls before turning suddenly towards Titania. "Tania! When'd you sneak in? Come over here," she demands brightly.

Luca very nearly chokes on his rum again at Octavia's shortening of his name, his broad grin flashing white teeth in sheer approval of her though after he's wiped at his rum-dribbling lips for the held-back laugh. On her way out, the woman gets a toast of his drink and a thoughtful sort of look as if maybe reappraising whether there's hope for her yet. After, he goes back to his table talk with laughter and ease to something said there.

Reigna gives Valencia her attention during the toast, and while the young woman is lacking a beverage just yet, she applauds the toast, her smile almost becoming a normal-person one, and the happiness in it seems to bring out her youthful beauty, warming her immensely. During this appaluse there is an abrupt turn of her head to the right as if hearing something that catches her attention sharply. It only lasts a second, and she's back to applauding.

Larissa follows Gaston to the serene copse of trees and makes herself comfortable next to him, sipping her wine and raising it in a toast to Valencia's toast "Here, here!" she calls out before growing quiet and speaking to Gaston lowly.

Ian calmly dries off his sleeve, because the person sitting next to him keeps choking on his rum while laughing (AHEM), and then lifts his glass to acknowledge the toast. He takes a longer drink this time time.

Octavia has left the table by the fountain.

Calandra raises her glass up as well, "Cheers!" She echoes their hostess before her attention turns back to Dagon and she nods her head, "Oh, we do enjoy a good party, I am looking forward to my next Thrax gathering myself. And Larissa is quite the fixture anywhere she goes, she is quite a stunning young woman, isn't she?"

Another nod to Octavia, pale malachite eyes making contact with the Judge's own. He raises his glass--taken from a passing servant, perhaps--to Valencia's toast, taking a sip with another of those grins of his, like a predatory beast trying to pretend to be human, tilting his head down to hear Larissa.

"Ah. Larissa Whisper. She's... One of the Softest, I believe? I think that's what I was told." Alexis muses, finally responding to Calandra - what with the toast taken care of. Offering a rueful smile. "It was a great pleasure meeting you all, but - I really should be getting home. Now that, ah, the toast of the night has been made and such." She concludes. Giving a bow to Calandra. "Perhaps I'll get a chance to talk to you again, mistress Whisper." And then a bow to Valencia, to Reese and Luca. "My prince, princesses. It was a pleasure as always. My lord and ladies, as I said, an honour meeting you." And, with that, she idly glances towards the exit, readying herself to leave.

Titania looks to Dagon, "Duke Dagon when I am not su numb I can then better answer that question." she says softly watching his eyes with her own Ocean blue ones, "But for the moment I am alright." she gives him a polite smile then moves to Join Jan, "Cousin." she smiles moving to sit next to her a slight wince when she sits down.

Titania has joined the table by the fountain.

And now that Asher's had his fill of food - good lord can a hungry man put food away - he makes sure he's presentable, and goes to find someone he knows. So far, that seems to be Valencia, and... Luca, kind of? Stopping near the man with a large glass of whiskey in hand, the glass is raised to him. And to those he's with. "Good evening! Having fun?" A glance to Valencia, smirking, but still remarking towards Luca, "I heard that this was supposed to be a time for... Party? Pleasure? Something along those lines - I've not been quite paying attention."

A bright smile is leveled at Calandra as she speaks, "I am so very glad that you are here, Mistress Calandra. You have been away from the city for far too long. Welcome home," Valencia smiles and nods. There is another smile Larissa's way. "If I were only half as accomplished, beautiful and gracious I should be a very happy little fox," she smiles at Calandra. "I must admit, I am humbled by whispers. I wish I were so briliant at social graces," she shakes her her head with sincere appreciate of the art of whispering.

Reese checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 12 lower.

Dagon can't argue with Calandra's assement, and takes it one further. "I don't know of anyone who is part of the Whisper House who is not a fixture everywhere they go, really, nor anything less than most impressive in all regards." He glances voer toward the other Whisper, and then back. "If you'd pass on my congratulations to your Radiant as well. I hear she is much to credit in our recent diplomatic breakthrough and has been cited by the King for her efforts. My wife worked with her on the negotiations and had nothing but good things to say." Then a small frown is turned back on Titania. "I'm sorry to hear that. We ought catch up in less crowded circumstances and you can, well, complain at me if you like. And possibly I can ... ahem, deal the source of your woes a little more diretly." As he may have a guess!

Asher has left the table by the fire.

Larissa laughs at Calandra and Valencia along the way and wishes she had brought some grapes with her only so she could throw it at them "Stop it, the pair of you!" she calls out. "You both easily put me to shame any day, and I'll beleive nothing less. Princess you are a light wherever you go and my darling Calandra you have the voice of an angel. You could bring the shadows themselves to light if you so wished. And that.. is simply that!" she announces, still laughing and adoration clear in her eyes for both of them.

Reese seems tensely bothered about something. She presses her face to Luca's chest.

Ian gives Reese and Luca a genuinely startled look. He says something quiet that sounds like it might be a (confused) apology, and then, bracing himself on the table, rises.

Titania nods her head, "Yes Duke Dagon, I would like that." she smiles softly looking to him with a greatful look in her eyes.

When it is that Alexis is going to depart, or rather when she's nearing the exit, Kael is glancing toward her briefly from his spot next to his companions underneath the tree. Just a quick glance followed by a vaguely polite nod before he's turning back to the pair next to him. He places his hand on Reigna's shoulder and squeezes lightly.

Offers a gracious smile Larissa's way and shakes her head, though Valencia is too polite to argue too much. A little glance aside has the little fox moving to stand next to her cousin, offering her a little kiss on the cheek.

Gaston looks up from his conversation with Larissa momentarily to follow her gaze, giving a polite nod to Calandra, though he's not yet met her really, and Valencia as well, raising his glass towards the pair.

Ian has left the table by the fountain.

"Your own humility moves me, Princess Valencia." Calandra says, bowing her head ever so slightly, though with a warm smile upon it, "You have thrown a party far better then anything I could, you sell yourself short." she says, "I am incredibly grateful for the chance to visit your secret garden here, and it is so beautifully decorated as well. I hope to see many more parties at your Hart." She nods slightly at Dagon at his words, "I shall be sure to, My Lord. Radiant Selene is the standard we all try to measure ourselves by, she sets quite the example for us." She lets a little grin come to her lips as Larissa calls out towards them.

Ian seems to have decided that the best thing to do for the (to him) inexplicable turn things have suddenly taken is to remove himself from the area. He bows over his cane to Reese and Luca, bids farewell to his family, and slowly works his way towards the exit.

Looking like he has the WORST possible timing, Asher ahems and apologizes for bothering Luca and Reese and Ian, and decides to step away. More drinks are needed. Yep. Time to find something to do. Maybe there's a cute serving girl to talk to... Everyone else seems busy with people they know.

"It is not humility, truly. There are many graces a whisper has that I do not posess. Gods, nows this by my blushing alone, such lack of composure," she laughs with a little roll of her eyes. "But that my guests are well loved and cared for, I will admit this is a passion of mine. I will confess readily to this," she smiles sweetly and lifts her glass. Ther is a little pause as Ian begins to depart and a look from Reese and Luca and then to Ian. A few quick steps later she is at Ian's side to bid him goodnight and thanking him for attending.

Reese tries to recover and she has the grace to look ashamed of her reaction. She gives Asher a belated smile of greeting. "Duke Asher." She murmurs softly. She then looks off after Ian as she starts to depart. "Take care, Lord Ian." She says as if trying her best to recover the moment, which might not work very well. "I should probably get home." She says toward Luca.

Dagon reacts with a certain amusement as Larissa calls over, apparently the two Whispers and Princess now all 'fighting' over who is the most wonderful and gracious of a host, except all of them trying to award the others the title. It's amusing, in its way. "Oh dear. Can we all just agree that you're all very good at this?" he wonders, with a laugh, looking between Calandra and Valencia.

Nightshade, a tiny black kitten, Penelope, Ariadne, 3 Rubino and Zaffria guards arrive, following Dafne.

Ian pauses to say something earnestly to Valencia. He seems to be on his way out.

Luca's caught up with comforting Reese for whatever happened and missed that the comment earlier was directed his way by Asher until Reese was coming out of her comfort to greet him. "Ah, yeah, indeed. Night for pleasures and fun indeed." A glance to Reese then under his arm and a murmured set of words to her, at which point the duelist prince is rising up in turn, offering her a hand and saying with a Lycene lack of anything aproximating shame. "Speaking of which, I think I'm going to steal away with my wife for some of such." Implications heavy as he smirks to what's likely to come an embarrassed or angry glare from her for saying that, even as subtly as that. It's not as if he declared for all and sundry he was taking her off for the sexings, even if that's what's implied. Lycenes!

Lorien has left the shady tree.

Asher stops in his tracks, turning back to Reese. "...Uh. Duke?" A slow blink. "Dear Princess, if I ever become a Duke, I would ask someone to cleave my head from my shoulders. I do /not/ need the responsibility of being nobility." He laughs at that, and looks a bit sorry that Reese couldn't stay. Still, he introduces himself. "Asher Grayhope. We crossed paths in the Uppers, before the end of the Siege." A bow, almost spilling some of his drink, but he recovers. To Luca, he smiles and gives a soft salute. "Fair enough. Go have fun, don't let anyone stop you."

Ian folds his upper body over his cane in a bow to Valencia, seeming to assent to something that she asked him.

Titania looks to Reese and Luca tilting her head seeming to miss something noddidng her head in their direction, she looks to Jan and smiles, "Drinks Jan, Drinks!" she nudges her cousin playfuly.

Dafne slips into the gardens (as much as someone with a ducal entourage can 'slip,' at least), clad in black and with her little kitten in her arms. She strolls through the gardens, studying them in curiosity and scanning for familiar faces.

Lorien steps away from the shade of the tree after bidding farewell to his cousins, and begins to make his way from the garden, easily slipping through the crowd.

Calandra laughs softly at Dagon's words, flashing a little grin at him, "I think that's what we already just said, My Lord!" She exclaims, "Your party is very lovely though, Princess Valencia. Your decorations elevate this already enchanted place to new heights."

Reese's cheeks are almost as pink as the ribbon in hair, between her reaction, Luca's words and now her getting confused about who Asher is. "Oh.." She says looking over the man. "A pleasure to meet you, the very not noble, Asher Grayhope." She says toward the man and gives him a smile. She then waves over in Jan's direction. "Take care, you are wonderful company."

Valencia steps towards Luca and Reese to offer each a loving kiss upon the cheek and little hug. "Be safe and come see me soon. Both of you," she smiles sweetly up them. "Thank you for coming tonight. I was so very happy to see you both."

"Your highnesses!" Dafne calls in greeting to Luca and Reese both, but notes Reese's blush, and looks back and forth between the pair. The little duchess smiles faintly--if she were a little bolder of countenance, it might almost be a smirk--and ducks her head. "Don't let me interrupt you."

Jan hops up out of her seat very briefly to smoothly interpose her tall frame into the path of a serving person. "Hey there, don't worry, I've got this," she says as she smoothly slips a hand underneath the tray and lifts it up out of his reach. "Thanks! Here's some empties for you. You're doing a fantastic job tonight, love the tunic. Looking really sharp," she fast-talks as she forces some empty glasses into the server's hands, slaps him approvingly on the butt and turns to go back to her table. "Did somebody say -drinks-?" she asks brightly. "And was her name Tania? Well, guess what!"

Luca grins to the accidental title with Asher, nodding to the man, waves and smirks along with Dafne's greeting and comment, and then hugs his cousin and hostess in parting, kissing her on the cheek and offering up a quick whisper before slipping away with arm offered to blushing Reese.

Reese returns Valencia's hug. "Take care, tiny Princess with a big heart." She says toward her. Her attention is then drawn by Dafne. She gives the duchess a smile of greeting. "Your grace.." She says even while starting to leave along with Luca.

Jan sets about distributing the tray's worth of drinks between her and her cousin. Jan's, Tania's, Jan's, Jan's, Tania's, Jan's. Perfectly fair and equitable.

Ian casually moves back away from the line between the table by the fountain and the exit. You'd have to be watching to realize that he saw Reese and Luca coming and he's making sure he's nowhere nearby, but that's what the end result winds up being.

Turning back to her other guests, the little princess smiles to Asher and shakes her head. "Be careful, Missere Ashere. You may be noblilty yet. This is a strange world and stranger times, yes?" she teases with a little smile. A sweet look is offered to Edward.

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Dagon before departing.

Titania grins at Jan, "Come sit with me and we shall drink to many things." she grins, "The first is to become numb!" she grabs a drink and downs it.

Luca has left the table by the fountain.

Reese has left the table by the fountain.

Justice, an elegant hunting falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound leave, following Reese.

Giuseppe, a kindly old man, Reese leave, following Luca.

"But," observes Dafne in a murmur, "being not a noble is very necessary too. There is no shame in being common; someone must be. The nobility are no better as people; we've simply been entrusted with a duty of care." She dips her head toward Valencia. "Your highness," she greets.

Ian gives it about a count of ten after Luca and Reese have gone before starting for the exit, himself.

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Dagon before departing.

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Dagon before departing.

"To Tania not feeling her bruises!" Jan kicks back half of her first drink and looks a little disappointed that it wasn't the zippy thing from earlier. Either she remembered the wrong serving person or he'd since changed his loadout. "To the Kennex Corsairs, may they all not be falling off the boarding planks without me there to yell at their asses," she proclaims. With that, the other half of the drink is summarily dispatched.

Valencia smiles at Dafne and offers her a little kiss on the cheek in wecome. "I couldn not agree more, Duchess Dafne. I think there is no shame in being either. It is how one conducts oneself that brings shame or pride that should mark such things. And here in the Hart it is merit not title that is important," the little princess agrees. A small smile finds her lips as Titania speaks to drinking to thinks. "What a splendid I idea! May I join?" she asks?

All that whatever said about the hosting and the event, Dagon eventually makes good on his earlier words - that he cannot really stay long. So as a few are departing, he moves to join them. "Princess Valencia, it's been wonderful as ever, and I've already sent word along about your project. Hopefully we can speak again soon. Calandra," if he can pick her out, "It was a pleasure. Lady Titania, we'll have to catch up soon back in the Ward." And with that, he is soon making his own way from the gathering.

From their place underneath the shade tree, Kael appears to be comforting Reigna. Or at least trying to, with his hand moving from one shoulder to the other, somewhat awkwardly. A few times he offers forth something, only to stop a few words in, and in the end his mouth just twists. There is a tilt of his head over toward the exit, brow quirking in silent query.

"Of course, My Lord." Calandra says to Dagon, "Come find me at the Whisper House some time." she says with a smile towards the man, "I hope the rest of the evening treats you well." offers a slight curtsey towards the departing nobleman.

Asher looks over to Valencia. "Don't you threaten me, missy," he laughs, "I don't want responsibility." As Luca and Reese leave, the plucky Jeweler moves over to stand hear the woman, holding drink in hand. "I would far rather marry into nobility and then be so low in the social structure that my only duty to the family, is to uphold the name, produce children, and not cause trouble." A long swig of his drink. "But then, I just make jewelery. Not expecting to get such a proposal /any/ time soon."

Titania smiles, "Yes please join us." she smiles and then looks over, to Jan, "To no one falling off with you there!" she grins looking and pats the seat next to her.

Valencia glance up at Asher. "I do not think that is limited to nobles alone, sir," she grins. "And I would not be so sure, Missere Asher. The world is a very strange and unexpected place."