Margot is a vision in red and black, the blood color of her dress cutting through the opening in her heavy, dark fur coat. The lady's cheeks are flushed a pink from the cool air and the exertion of the brisk walk down from the Thrax estate. Her guards hover close but she holds for herself a length of navy silk draped over one arm.

The commons are always busy. Always. Even in the dead of winter, which it is. But tonight, there are lanterns lit, there are boughs of greenery, there is ... music, even. A small, nervous looking set of musicians cluster around a fire barrel to play stringed, fluted, and percussive instruments. The scent of unusually savory food wafts in the air. Donella presides, laying out coins upon the feasting table, for the urchin children of the neighborhood to swipe, along with the odd handpie. "Don't be shy... this is yours," she says.

Though not a Thrax in name any longer, it is hard not to support her family, so here Jaenelle is. She is being carried over the snow, though only because she is small and might get stuck otherwise rather than as a display of title and riches. As the litter is lowered, one of her guards assists her from it so she may walk on her own without assistance. She pulls the fur cloak more tightly around her shoulders now that she is left to the elements, and scans the gathering grounds. Upon seeing Margot, she brightens and hops over towards the other woman, "MARGOT!" She doesnt even need to scream, she just wants to.

Aureth stands watching the rich people who have swarmed here from a corner of the square, leaning with his shoulder hitched against the slightly ramshackle side of a building. His hair is drawn back from his sharply angled features in a lighter tail than usual, leaving them looking a little unusually stark. He is coatless on the snowy day, bronze-buttoned vest and shiny gold pin worn over faded grey and dark trousers. His gaze is narrow and grey, paler than the blackened snow here but far less pale than any individual snowflake. Aside from the narrowing of his gaze, his expression is studiedly neutral.

How could Prospero miss something designed to help the Orphans of Arx when he's spent the entire summer doing that himself? So of course he shows up in the Common's Square, dressed in quilted silks and a fine woolen cloak to hold off the chill. Dressed more plainly, but still warmly, are the servants that begin to unload a wagon full of small medicines. Vapor rub, fever reducer, and so forth. But it's satchets of tea that are laid out for easy grab by any who would be too poor to buy tea in the first place.

Near one of those artfully placed fire-barrels, Ianthe stands. The only protection from the cold is a simple wool cloak over her shoulders. Her hair is uncovered, a mass of wild curls that drifts just over her shoulders. Her dark eyes are on the gathering nobles, her lips barely curved into a sardonic smirk.

Eos arrives walking with a man in Saik colors, followed closely by a trio of three smallish donkey-drawn wagons. He is engaged in some conversation, going over parchments in his hand and whatever is written on them while they approach the commons. The wagons had been escorted by a few guards through the buroughs, but once they reached the commons, those guards peeled away, leaving Eos to point out an out of the way spot to park the wagons to be unloaded of southern cured meats and a selection from the winter root vegetable harvest, crates of jarred fruits and vegetables from the previous seasons and remedies for common winter ailments. With the business end of things done, Eos departs from the steward to make his way further into the commons, hands clasped loosely at his back to meander through the children and those gathered, taking stock of who else had shown up for the cause.

Margot looks up and so elieved when she hears Jaenelle call to her name. Her path feers towards the Princess, and a soft smile unfurls upon her pale lips. She does not yell, no the quieter voice of the Thrax house waits until she is right beside Jaenelle to greet her. "Your Highness, I am so glad to see you. And may I say," she praises softly, "This outfit suits you perfectly. I hope you have been well."


The Princess Natalia Grayson has that way of sweeping into an event or a place as if she owns it. The woman's features are full of an absurd amount of confidence and the lift of her Grayson chin. A soft swish of silks swirl around her in blacks and grays as she moves more into the area. While it may be cold and the princess has got to be freezing for fashion; she does not show it. A soft cloak of velvet does wrap around her as she moves over towards Donella. A few moments to wait her turn before she will attempt to greet the beautiful (and single fellas) Thraxian Voice with a kiss to her cheek, should she allow it. "Darling.. your turn out looks amazing. You are so lovely to do this event."


Valerius makes his way into the square, impeccably dressed but somewhat less extravagant than usual perhaps in deference to this being a poverty related function. A polite smile is on his face as thoughtful eyes look around the square and assess the situation. He spots his sister and makes his way over, his cloak flowing behind him in a way to indicate he probably had it designed for that as it follows him dramatically.

Juliet arrives alongside Prospero, currently all but completely covered up by her heavy woolen cloak. It's a number in dark green, lined with pale fur, and embroidered with a complex garden of vines and roses in pink and reds. Considering the goods laid out, she offers a smile to her cousin. "This does seem like a wonderful way of helping people." Even with her heavy coverings, her cheeks are already getting roses of their own in the chill. Her entourage is bringing stack upon stack of firewood to be piled up and doled out; apparently the cold is what the southern-born lady finds the most disquieting about the Arx winter.

Donella waves a hand towards her family members in greeting, and when she smiles, the fog of her breath clouds the air before her face briefly, made rosy by the wind. The looming presence of the Iron Guard clearly puts a crimp in her swerve, but she smiles and leaves off handing out woolens to take into the Tragedy, to greet Natalia. "I think its always best when people can see eachother from across their divisions, up close. Thank you for coming-- but promise me you will stand near to a fire!" she rubs Natalia's shoulders. "Lord Prospero," she calls. "I love what you have brought. That is a truly thoughtful gift."

Princess Sabella arrives with a guard behind her and a large satchel on his shoulder, heavy with something. She immediately makes her way toward Natalia and follows her lead toward the hostess. "Princess Dontella, the event looks wonderful. Thank you so much for starting something so needed at this time." She greets her cousin with an embrace, and offers an appropriate greeting to the Princess.

The notion of noblesse oblige is one of the core tenets of the Oathlands, and House Valardin is here in full-effect to again demonstrate that even if the dignitaries of Arx them oft insufferable, they are rather beloved by the common folk. And any who may have prayed for a Dragon won't be surprised by the treasure trove of sundries that are being handed out by the literal crate load. Princess Sophie is no stranger in these parts, often making house calls with her fellow Mercies of Lagoma to tend to those too ill to come to the House of Solace. Bundled up for the winter chill, topped with a pristine white tabard denoting her holy healer vocation, her fair face is flushed rosy at the nose and cheeks, and she warmly smiles to those collecting a care package.

Jaenelle does not seek permission as she wraps Margot into a hug before she grins sheepishly at the woman, "do you think? I was experimenting." The colors are not blues and greens like a respectable Thraxian might wear. "I have been well, thank you for asking, and yourself? How is my brother..." and she notes that the man is walking towards them. She looks him over, and as he gets within hearing ditance, "there you are. I was just asking Margot if you've gotten into any trouble. The last I heard you were walking arm in arm with two women." She tsks, but it is clearly out of amusement and love for her baby brother. She then looks towards the cousin of the hour, asking Margot, "have you gone to speak with Donella yet?"

Jarek is late, he knows it, though at least he doesn't try to sneak in unnoticed. The blood red tabbard with the symbol of the faith stamped on the chest marks him as a member of the faith, or a very very bold liar. He scans the crowd as he walks in and his eyes settle on a familiar face. He moves towards the group of Valardins and towards Sophie in particular. "Sister Sophie" Jarek says warmly "I expected to see you here, how are you, do you need help with anything?"

With one had on Juliet's back, Prospero steers the Fidantes towards the throng of Thrax(es?). "It is a wondrous thing to see others taking an interest in those that grow up to keep the realm moving," he says to Donella. "And so it is not just the duty of House Fidante to support this effort, but our pleasure as well."

The weather has turned to the season she knows best, but the tall Redrain woman doesn't arrive in the finest furs, but rather the furs that served her the finest. Freja wears the true leathers of a scout of Farhaven, the snowy and sun-bleached hues certain to leave her nigh invisible when juxtaposed next to a frozen landscape. Still, her bright and rare smile she has tonight is more than enough to chase away any chill the sight may carry with her.

Aureth shifts away from his lean against the wall and wanders closer to the set up in front of the Unkindness. He nibbles thoughtfully on a hangnail on his left hand, while his right hand hovers with habitual, casual nearness to his belt. Unlike how he behaves when he turns up at parties and events and well-to-do bars in the Upper Boroughs, he makes way for no one and drops his gaze from no one, but shoulders his way amidst the people in their finery in the commons square as though he bloody well owns the place. Standing before the table with its strew of food, coins and items, he shifts his weight, balancing it back onto his heels and frowning faintly, thoughtfully.

Juliet nods in agreement with Prospero's words, letting her cousin steer her towards the Thraxians, and she sketches a curtsey while still doing her best to keep her cloak as much around her as possible, beaming a bright smile at Donella and the others. "Once more, your highness, it seems your mind has come up with a wonderful way for an evening to be spent. Unusual and inspiring."

"Greetings, Brother Jarek," Sophie smiles at her fellow disciple. "I am quite well, thank you, and hope that so are you." The Valardin contingent seems well-practiced at this kind of thing, but this Princess of their line in never one to shy from rolling up her sleeves (albeit only figuratively in this weather) to do good works. "You most certainly are welcome to join us in handing out care packages."

The "hostess" answers Sabella, "I am so glad that you could come. It would have meant so much to Genny-- to Her Majesty, if she could have seen this. Princess Sophie is making quite an impression tonight. A whole crate... What am I going to do about the wagons?" she wonders aloud. "You don't approve?" she asks of Aureth, as he sways there.

Valerius smirks at Janelle, "Nah, you're only in trouble if you get caught and I'm way to smart for that obviously." he says with and gives his sister a quick hug, stage whispering, "I think you sorta look like a grape." he says with a laugh before nodding at Margot, "And how have you been Lady Largot?" he asks.

Margot is crushed against Jaenelle, "Yes I do," she tells Jaenelle, "Though you would freeze if it were not for the cloak." She twists away as soon as she's release and offers a curtsey to Valerius. "Your Highness," she greets before she offers a quiet nod through the crowd to Donella. "I have not Princess Jaenelle, she seems so busy over there I would not wish to disturb but I broughtan old dress for one of the poor girls out here, do your think it is too much?"

Jarek beams a smile and nods at Sophie "I'd love to help. Its good to put your hands to something and I've been sorely lacking in my physical application of the faith. I've been meaning to speak with you as well, I was just speaking to my cousin and I realized I hadn't spent much time practicing The Flames healing, I should spend more time with you and the other Mercy's." And he rolls his sleeves up as well to help in the distribution of care packages

"Approve?" Aureth smiles a faint smile as he looks up. His eyebrows tick up over his pale eyes. "Hm, I don't think it is for me to approve, or not approve. There are hungry people here you are feeding with this largesse. Who could disapprove of that." There is still something remote in his voice. The glitter in his eyes is the only clue to the falseness in his smile.

There were more familiar faces than Eos could properly get around to greeting immediately, but he does nod or wave to those he spots and once he hears them, falls back towards Prospero and Juliet. His progress is, admittedly, slowed here and there when he stops to pick saltwater taffy wrapped up in wax paper from his pocket or the odd small denomination coin to slip into the hands of children he passes. When he does reach the pair, he claps a hand to Prospero's back and dips his head to Juliet. "It's good to see something of home making a showing here."


There is a slight laugh from Natalia to Donella. "Darling, I'll be alright." She does not seem to mind the rub on her shoulders though. She drops a comment low to Donella's ear and then moves to step out of the way so her friend can see to the event more fully. She does offer a kiss on the cheek to Sabella. "Dearest cousin, your dress is beautiful and matches your eyes so perfectly. I see you are already getting your taste for fashion. I am quite delighted in that." She smiles at Freja and heads in the woman's direction. She will bring Sabella with her if allowed, "Sabella dearest, have you met the most wonderful Princess Freja Redrain? She is absolutely amazing." This will lead to her attempts of kissing poor Freja's cheek. "Freja, you look very shaman." It's a shared secret smile. "I am happy to see you."

A crooked smile is given to Eos when he makes himself known. "It is an odd thing, to get a Lycene out in the cold without the lure of wine. But it can be done." He nods to Juliet, then to Jarek, as if to prove his point. "Good to see you continue to look out for the poor of the city, Lord Eos," Prospero says.

"Who indeed?" Donella asks of Aureth, intent on him for a moment. "I was thinking of offering long term employments for unskilled laborers on my coin as a contribution, which would help for longer than a day. But it was suggested that might be pushy. How are you called?" She glances to Juliet and murmurs, "You are too kind. Its nothing that others have not done before... But I need to feel that we are doing something good with a bad time."

"That is what I was going for" Jaenelle stage whispers back to Valerius, "a big grape." She returns the hug to her brother after the one given to Margot. She rolls her eyes, "you owe me a present anyway, perhaps jewelry to match the grapeness." She really hopes he does not get her grape jewelry. "She does look busy" Jaenelle informs Margot about Donella with a nod. "She would be happy to see us though. Lets give her a moment and then we can approach." She looks around even more, spotting her Velenosa people, and her fingers wiggle in their direction. "Margot, Valerius, have you met Lord Prospero, Lady Juliet, and Lord Eos in your travels through the city?"

"Oh?" is Sophie's pleasantly surprised reply to Jarek, breaking into a broad smile. "If you seek instruction, I am certain something may be arranged. We welcome all skilled and trusted hands at the Solace, and there are never too many of those." Whatever else she might say is cut off as she beams at a resident she clearly knows, a middle-aged woman with keen eyes. "Goodwoman Josette! How lovely to see you! How fares your mother?" A care package is handed over.

Eos' arrival brings bright smile to Juliet's face, and she even brings forth a hand gloved in red doeskin leather to wave to him. "So good to see you as well, Lord Eos. My Lord Prospero had the bright idea to share some of Tor's blessings with the unfortunates here; the salves and medicines that can help with aches and ailments winter brings." At Prospero's words, she mock-pouts, taking a step closer to her cousin. "I was assured there would be wine." Then, her smile - more genuine - turns to Donella, and she reaches out to give the Princess a squeeze of the arm. "And in -doing-, you take a step forward into the realm of inspiration, your Highness. Let us hope that this will not just be one night, and that people are reminded to assist where they can." Jaenelle's introduction catches her ear next, and she turns, sketching a curtsey to Margot and Vaerius. "Lady Juliet Fidante. A pleasure to meet you all."

Ianthe watches the crowd gathering for their care packages from her position by one of the fire-barrels. Her arms are folded over her chest, her face expressionless as she remains where she is. Her expression only changes when she sees Aureth approach the tables. She lifts her brows and moves slowly, casually to a fire-barrel positioned closer. She's just another commoner in the crowd today.

Natalia's kiss to Freja is allowed, making the Redrain crinkle her nose playfully at it. "Very Shaman? Can I coin that term as my own? Y'know, as defense against the charlatans popping up." She winks at Natalia and laughs, "Sabella is it? A pleasure."

Rolling his shoulders in a shrug, Aureth says, "I'm a Grayhope, Highness, which makes me of more consequence than some of the hungry here, but of little consequence to any of you in your fine silks and your great bloody warships and so on." His smile flickers, for a moment, wider. "Yet do not think I begrudge House Thrax and your pretty friends for providing my neighbors with gifts. It is very charming of you all to troop into our sad, battered little part of the city and enjoy the warm glow of charity on a cold winter's night. Let me, too, give a gift, one that I believe one of your house might find a token of appropriate respect." His tones are easy, breezy and light. He speaks like someone who has studied manners, although he /may/ speak like someone who has studied manners in order to be backbiting and insulting with them. (Donella has done nothing to deserve his snidiness, and yet here it is.)


Better late than never, Darren comes down the path with an escort of several men in Redrain colours, each carrying bundles of heavy fur - cloaks, coats, warm clothes for the winter months. Curiously, or perhaps obviously, the last man is also wheeling a rather large keg of presumably whiskey. The Highlord's eyes cut across those gathered, seeking out someone in particular, and he waves his men to set their burdens down as Darren walks right over to Donella. "Princess Donella," his deep intone is warm, friendly, and he dips into a polite bow for her, "Sorry I am late, it took a bit of time to find the right amount of men to bring the donations," he flashes her a grin.

Jarek is handing out care packages inbetween exchanges with Sophie, and he offers her a smile. "I think I need more practice and less instruction. I may be an odd priest Sister, but I still am a servant of The Flame. It has just been some time. Though I would welcome someone with better knowledge watching me as I get back onto my feet. I was speaking with a lady about a week ago about a clinic being established in the buroughs, it seemed like something good to set my hands too."

Margot turns to Prospero, Juliet and Eos offering each a quiet smile in turn. "A pleasure to meet you all." The Tyde lady seems to fade into Jaenelle's shadow, even half stepping back to be slightly behind her, allowing the former Thrax princess front and center stage out of habit.

Margot drops Modest Navy Silk Dress.

Sabella nods her head to Dontella in acknowledgement of her words. She beams with pride when she hears Natalia's compliment, "Thank you, Natalia. I hoped to impress you. As the fashionista of our City, one can only take that as an esteemed compliment." She moves to the side with her cousin, allowing Dontella to greet the other guests. She turns her attention to Freja as she is introduced, "Princess Freja, it is a pleasure to meet you. Yes, Sabella. It is as playful a name as I can be at times. Natalia has quite the way with words as she does for fashion. Should we move over to a fire?" She smiles at Natalia, taking note of how she is suffering for her fashion.

"Instead of uskilled labor," Prospero suggests towards Donella, "we have been trying to set up increased apprenticishipes with the crafters. To make it easier for the orphans to learn a trade skill and have a better chance in life. Let us pay for their way through that time, hm?" And then, oh my! He's being introduced to people by Jaenelle. "The pleasure is mine," he says to Margot, dropping his shoulders enough to be called a bow. His smile extends that gesture of greeing towards Valerius as well.

"It is one of the parts of the burden that seems to lighten the spirit rather weight," Eos remarks absently for looking out for the common class. His attention had turned out to watch the festivities. He lifts a hand to return Jaenelle's wave before answering to Juliet, teased, "It is always my pleasure, Lady Juliet, though I might start to worry for your health with so many cold nights out in a row." He turns back then to find proper introductions, apparently, and dips his head to Margot and Valerius, offering a small but sincere smile when he returns, "It is good to meet you both, of course."

Valerius shakes his head to his sister, "Only by reputation." he says then offers a proper greeting to Juliet, "Of course it is, I'm delightful!" he says with a laugh, "It is truly a pleasure to meet you Lady Juliet I'm Prince Valerius Thrax." he says seemingly with genuine sincerity, he nods to Eo and Prospero, "It's a pleasure to meet you as well."

For a little while longer, Sophie exchanged pleasantries and then taps one of the Valardin retinue to hand her a medium-size box. From within it, she pulls at a lovely horse figurine, perhaps five inched in height, and carved of wood, painted regally. "For Patrick." As they part, she pauses in her dispensing so that she may more fully address Jarek. "I will aid you in whatever way I am able." With a smile, she notes, "Another clinic is a grand idea."

Natalia nods her head towards Freja. "Of course you can, I would take it as a compliment if you started using my terms. You know I delight in the start of a trend." Her deep blue eyes move through the area as she looks people over. It is on the Grayhope speaking to Donella that her attention lies for the most part. She smiles as she sees Darren as well. At the question, there is an absent nod. "Yes, Sabella. Perhaps I will join you in a second. If you could excuse me but a moment." She's moving towards Donella.


"Are you really?" the Princess Donella Thrax asks of Aureth, not at all rising to his tone. She looks, in fact, as though he has reminded her of something. Something filed away, for later. She says, "That's funny, for I thought the Greyhopes had a fine estate in the Upper Boroughs. Are you affiliated with the Murder?" she indicates the direction of the establishment, pleasant as pie. She looks to Darren and says with a smirk, "Please tell me you did not kill all of those, Your Grace. I'm glad you could come. Lord Prospero was just making some suggestions about how to help in the long-term. Very sensible, I think." Ad then, there are more people coming on.

"It was a Lady Deepwood who suggested the idea, though I only got to touch on the subject briefly. I will certainly let you know once I speak to the Lady at a greater length. It seemed like something you might be interested in as well." Jarek says with a smile to Sophie. He doesn't have the same first name familiarity with these people as Sophie, and he ticks his tongue. "This past week has been several interesting changes sister. I don't shy away from the burroughs, but I also can't say I know the people like you do. You're an inspiration to grow. You're a wonderful representative of The Flame sister."

"Or the death of a terrible one." Freja quips to Natalia on the subject of trends. "Mores the pity that once you stamp one out, three more pop up in its place..." she sighs and turns her somber eyes to Sabella. "Playful? I thought it to be syllables. Tell me, what about you makes you playful? Some find pleasure in the jest, others the coy look. Or pranks?"

"Don't you worry, my Lord Eos. There's more where this comes from." Gesturing to the packets of medicine and tea being handed to those who have come. Grinning. "Even if I catch sick, I will be in the best of hands." Beaming brightly to Valerius next. "Your highness. I hope you've only heard good things. And I am glad to see you here tonight." Though she stays close to her cousin, and nods in agreement with both his words and that of Princess Donella.

Aureth checked composure + performance against difficulty 15, resulting in 30, 15 higher than the difficulty.

When everyone seems to be introduced, Jaenelle reaches behind her with a fluid motion and very gently nudges Margot from behind her to stand beside instead. She says something softly, eyes looking at Prospero as she does, before she straightens more properly. "Lady Juliet, please be wary of my brother. He is a charming man who finds trouble without looking. He should be on his best behavior, and I am looking for someone to keep an eye on him for me. I was going to hire a Whisper to watch over him, but perhaps a lady of standing is a better idea." She glances towards Freja then, wiggling her fingers in the other woman's direction.

"Indeed." Aureth reaches up to his head, yanking back the golden length of his ponytail with a hard tug of his left hand as it draws it straight. With a flash, the blade of his dagger is in his other hand, though the blink of an eye is all the time there is to tell where it came from -- whether it was sleeve or belt -- before he is using its honed edge to slice through the hair at his nape, just before the tight band of the queue. There's a soft tearing sliiice as the steel slides silkily through the fine golden hairs. With a fistful of this gleaming hank -- boy takes good care of his hair apparently -- Aureth drops it onto the table with the other offerings. His smile has never left his face, cool and restrained. He's probably half-expected to be jumped for pulling the blade under these circumstances in the first place, but still he stands there.

"Not all of us." <-- was supposed to go at the end there but Aureth forgot to type it.

Donella checked command + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 51, 36 higher than the difficulty.

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

Margot's cheeks color just a touch when she's nudges up beside Jaenelle. Her bright blue eyes cut from Valerius to Juliet curiously. "Prince Valerius I meant to speak to you soon about your Redrain cousins in fact... if you do not have only trouble in mind." Her head tilts towards Jaenelle curiously listening to the princess before she nods slightly to her words.

Darren checked dexterity against difficulty 15, resulting in 14, 1 lower than the difficulty.

Sabella nods to Natalia as she moves to head back to the Donella. She turns back to Freja, "I would say that I am playful when it comes to the arts. I adore the theater, stories of romance, tragedy and adventure. And I love events like this." She looks around at the others in attendance. "It seems appropriate for me to offer my contribution to the commoners." She calls for her guard to come toward her and then she waves over to some of the commoner children. "Pass it around, little one- I have hard candy for you all!" She then dips her hand in the satchel on her guard's shoulder and puts a few pieces into his hand. She grins at the little boy's response. She then says to Freyja, "You may help in giving it to the children, if you wish." She laughs with delight as she hands them to the children as they begin forming a line around her.

Darren checked dexterity against difficulty 7, resulting in 17, 10 higher than the difficulty.

"Gods above. And you wish for it to be me?" Juliet laughs, looking from Jaenelle to Valerius. "Do you truly wish such pain upon my cousin?" Her grin broad. "What kind of trouble is it that seems to find you so easily, your highness? For it seems I have an interest in trouble, from time to time." A beat, and she grins as the shy Margot is presented as well. "Perhaps I should be chaperoning these two, inste-" And then there's the flash of a knife and some slight commotion, and Juliet quiets and tries to not be in the way.

With a kindly smile and an encouraging tone, Sophie informs Jarek, "I know some, but that is because my work has brought me to them. Not all are well enough to journey to the House, so we journal to them. Josette's mother has been unwell for some time but her condition is stabilized. Patrick is her son. He's seven." There are breaks in her conversation with her fellow disciple, for she chats with those few she knows from her rounds, and she exchanges pleasantries with anyone else who is willing. Eventually, back to the Velenosa Prince, she queries, "Lady Deepwood, you say? She is fairly recently arrived. I had been meaning to make acquaintance. What do make of her?"


Darren utters a low chuckle at Donella, his grin turning broad. "Of course I killed all of those. How else would I have gotten the fur? I would've invited you, of course, but something tells me that your semi-decent riding skills wouldn't have helped bring down the five-hundred pound bear I found," he boasts, winking at her with another bit of rumbly laughter. His eyes cut to her companion, Aureth, brows quirking a brow at him, though the flash of the dagger has him reacting quick enough to put himself between Donella and the offender. She might have guards, but today it'd be Darren to the rescue. "Are you a fool?" his voice raises up as Aureth cuts through his hair, Darren's hand immediately coming to the hilt of his sword.

Valerius gives Margot a smile that would light up a cave, "Sure, we can talk about anything you like!" he says, he chuckles at Juliet, "See, that's the thing, I try to stay /out/ of trouble, it just doesn't work that way, stick around me long enough and you'll get in trouble. It is a lot of fun."

"Then all my worries are duely set aside, my Lady," Eos remarks to Juliet's assurances. He listened in on the conversation a while longer, though his attention turned more to watch some of the spectacle beyond those immediately around him. He becomes distracted with watching a spot slightly off from where several children were playing and laughing. Eventually he snaps out of it though with a shake of his head and clears his throat. "Unfortunately I can not stay long as I might like, there is still much to catch up on from my trip. I hope to see you all again soon."

"I make that anyone whos first reaction when establishing themselves in the city to help others to be a good person. I spoke with her only briefly, so I can't say I know her perfectly, but if she is honest then I think its a good thing to have met her. If you happen to see her before I, I am sure she would enjoy more interest in her idea." Jarek smiles at Sophie, and there is a glance over to the yell of 'fool' and Jarek shakes his head before turning that bright smile back on the young man he was delivering a package to moments before.

Prospero seems about to say something with the flash of Aureth's dagger catches his attention. No warrior, he, the Fidante lord is not one to put himself so quickly between knife and Princess. Thank the gods for Redrain bravery and reaction there! Whatever words were halted by the display are forgotten when Eos speaks up again. "Ah, come for a drink tomorrow, Lord Eos," he says to his countryman.

Donella lifts a hand benignly, because her own bodyguards have started forward, even if the Iron Guardsmen have not. She is herself a little unsettled, but not so much that she would squeal, or scream-- Thrax women do not cry. She can't seen them from where she is anyway. "Wait." She says, and that is apparently enough to make her Grandfather's men from trying to reduce Aureth to a stain on the cobbles. "It's alright. You dropped something, Master Grayhope. I'm seeing a lot of that going around. May I see that," she indicates the knife, and holds out a flat hand. She pulls her shoulders back, putting on her most chill posture.

"I think if two people who are prone to trouble finds trouble together, how much trouble can it really be?" comes Jaenelle's quite smart train of thought. She casts a glance towards Donella and Darren, looking over with mild interest, though her eyes cant help but roll at the fistful of hair on the table. "Lord Eos" she dips her head to the departing lord as he leaves.

Natalia glances at Darren, but for once, the Grayson is letting someone (someones?) handle it. She does stand pretty resolute by Donella as she takes in names and actions. Her deep blue eyes falling from Darren to Donella and then to Aureth.

"A fine way to be." Freja nods to Sabella before the other woman sees to her own donation of hard candy, which gets a fond look of approval from the Princess. She catches Jaenelle's wave and returns it before looking around at the commoners, as if trying to size them up for one reason or another. Her own gift has yet to be revealed.

"Am I?" Aureth shrugs unconcern on the matter of his own foolishness (I mean, the jury may still be out on that one, who knows -- no, I mean, yes, he's an idiot). He certainly doesn't do anything that makes it look like he intends to raise it in threat versus Donella, or anyone else besides the defeated ponytail now lying limply on the table with the other offerings. Ew, Aureth. That is gross. At least he definitely has washed it recently. Instead, he flips the knife over readily in his hands, and hands it to Donella hilt-first.

Aureth gets cheap slim-bladed knife from a grey pouch textured with embroidered coins.

Margot glances down under the shine of Valerius' smile, perhaps aware enough of the force of the Prince's demeanor to avoid being drawn into it. Her body shifts in the shuffle to push her shoulder just before Jaenelle. Her expression focuses' to look around and then softens again seeing Donella seems to, have matters in hand. "Lady Juliet you should join Princess Jaenelle in visiting the Thrax estate sometime soon..."

"Lady Juliet does occasionally try to give me a gray hair with her own antics," Prospero admits to those introduced by Jaenelle. "Yet I have confidence that she would be a fantastic companion, Prince Valerius." He does give Jaenelle and Juliet the kind of look an older relative gives to the younger. The kind that warns of stayingout of trouble. While having no expectation that he'll be heeded.

"You get candy, and YOU get candy!" Sabella says to the children. She laughs with enjoyment as a little girl dances, and she offers the girl another candy for the performance. The commoner children begin to flock to her, and she moves to hug them as she exchanges candy to their tiny hands. Her eyes light up as the children are filled with excitement at the simple treat. One of the little boy's comes up to her and whispers in her ear. She says to him, "Of course you can have a piece for your ill mother. I hope she feels better. Candy always made me feel good."

With the situation... Somewhat resolving, Juliet gives Lord Eos another waggle of her fingers and a smile, then looks to Jaenelle. "You say that now, your highness. Personally, I worry that our mingling of trouble would have an exponential effect." Considering Valerius again, with a cocked eyebrow. "Perhaps at some point we need to compare notes on fun verses trouble to see where one definition ends and the other begins." Half paying attention to the confrontation between Aureth and Donella, bowing her head to Margot. "A most generous invitation, my lady, and one I am sure to take you up on, as soon as her Highness and I can coordinate our schedules." Looking to Prospero with a bright smile and a fluttering of her lashes, feigning innocence despite her earlier words and the fact that Prospero has been within earshot for the entirety of the conversation.

Valerius nudges his Jaenelle playfully, "I like her." he says indicating Juliet, then laughs at Juliet, "As long as no one I like ends up dead or greiviously wounded, I tend to call it fun. Now if someone comes really close to either of those, that's what I call a lot of fun."


    "-Are- you?" Darren replies to Aureth, straightening as he stares hard at the man. "You pull a knife on a Princess, to cut your hair? What was that supposed to be, some sort of bold statement? A public display of dissatisfaction?" He scoffs, wrapping his hand around the hilt of his sword to pull it just a hair out of his scabbard, as the man flips the knife over to hand it hilt-first to Donella. He keeps himself between the two of them, mostly, eyes not leaving Aureth. "If you have an -issue-, good sir, you talk it over like a proper individual. You don't go brandishing daggers at the host of an event meant for charity."

Natalia lifts up to offer something to Darren while she keeps her eyes on Aureth and Donella. Just watching.

To what Jarek says, Sophie nods. Whatever reply she might have given is aborted as she becomes aware of the commotion, and her summer sky eyes peers, her head bobbing this way and that as she tries to get a better look, to know avail. It's crowded around the Valardin gift wagon. She's quite certain she recognizes one of the voices that has been raised, though. "What's transpiring?" she asks her fellow disciple, consternation brewing on her rosy face. Even as she asks, she's adjusting her satchel, giving the impression that she intends to head that way, swarming masses be damned.

Jaenelle giggles lightly at the look towards Prospero, moving forward to stand on her toes and kiss his cheek rather than flutter her lashes as Juliet does. "I have a very good lawyer who keeps me from trouble. I haven't even stolen a ship yet, how much trouble could I be?" When he brother nudges her, she wrinkles her nose as she is bumped by the larger man, "maybe you can talk some sense into him Lady Juleit. I certainly can't." A nod to Margot, "we really should. Soon, I promise. We need a girl's day." With Margot's rum.

Abbas checked command + leadership against difficulty 20, resulting in 24, 4 higher than the difficulty.

Donella is herself a little dramatic. She smiles, shivering, with a smile that as thin as the edge of the knife she is borrowing. She takes a hold of her own long braid and slices it with the offered knife to the middle length. "It's all alright," she assures the others near her. "Maybe someone will get a hairpiece out of it and I'll start a fashion. Thank you, sir." She wags the knife at him by the point to take. "We'll talk later about your business, shall we? Please enjoy the feast." She turns to take Darren Redrain's arm. "Lets see if you can't use tht sword to carve one of the game fowl. That dagger won't cut it."

Abbas checked command + sailing against difficulty 20, resulting in 73, 53 higher than the difficulty.

Prince Abbas Thrax is dressed in deep cobalt blue with crimson rope seams. The serpent has his beard and long grey-streaked hair tied with thin leather cords like he were dressed for war. The Thraxian is fresh back from times spent cast about on the current of the endless Salt. The rough killers that accompany the man are of his own personal band of butchers. The sort of axe wielding 'guards' you don't take to the masquerade balls. But his blood was dead and his men were fierce and loyal. This was an event dedicated in her memory. "Long live the Queen." Late but never sorry. The men and the Prince himself carry winter supplies that look they too must be fresh from the Salt. The containers have been beat, scratched, and unrecognizable. His men each in turn do the same. Regardless of the origins the haul was more than modest. The reaver Prince pays his respects with a nod and recognition of his blood. He pays his respects and takes his leave.

"Indeed, Highness. It might make a /charming/ wig, if someone preferred to be a blonde." Aureth tips a slight smile to Donella, a slight inclination of his head -- his point made, apparently, before he lifts his chin, his nostrils flaring slightly as he turns the cool steel of his pale gaze upon Darren. He does not appear particularly chastened. "Why don't you take it up with Lord Victus?" he asks, lightly. Even though he's no longer armed. (Then again, let's be clear here, there is no way that Aureth Grayhope was doing anything more offensive with that knife than cutting hair. Maybe juggle it.) "He apparently believes that using a blade to remove the hair of commoners he meets in public is appropriate, after all. Was I not being culturally correct to Thraxian sensibilities? So sorry. You are in my neighborhood, sir, and you are bestowing your charity upon my neighbors, but your friends here are quite happy to do whatever they please to us when their sense of public fashion won't be offended by it."

Margot nods to Jaenelle and Juliet, "I have told Dutchess Nadia I shall show her some of the Thraxian beauty secrets, though I am sure she did not know I maent salt and sand scrubs with winter sea water." She pauses to look over Abbas' enterance, offering a respectful curtsey to the prince.

"It is a good thing you have a legendary lawyer," Prospero agrees with Jaenelle while accepting the kiss from Jaenelle. "Lady Margot, please, come visit the villa soon. I have heard wonderful things about you ad it might be nice to have a quiet conversation while my cousin is toeing the line of trouble and fun with the Prince." Catching sight of something from near the Tragedy, "Ah, but if you'll excuse me for now..."

Jarek notices Sophies determination and he places one hand on her shoulder for a moment "we can speak some other time sister sophie, it was good talking to you" and he departs the sisters side, instead moving to the small throng of Velenosians and beaming a smile at Jaenelle "why if it isn't my favorite cousin-in-law, how are you?" he says with a bright smile to Jaenelle, and another smile is offered to Juliet "Lady Fidante its a pleasure to see you again."

Donella seizes a cup. "To Genevieve Grayson nee Thrax, and Arx. Long may it stand, united."

Margot mutters quietly to Jaenelle before she offers smile to Prospero, "That is good Your Lordship for I have heard wonderful thinks abut yourself as well. Perhaps we shall compare notes later... be very well."

Sophie was determined to depart, but the situation appears diffused. Companionably, she smiles to Jarek and nods. "Of course, Brother Jarek. Send me word and we shall arrange something. Thank you for your help, and may you enjoy the rest of your evening."

"...I think I missed something." Juliet murmurs, furrowing her brow at the locks being shed, looking from Aureth to Donella, taking a cup as the Princess does, and raising it in recognition of the toast made. Quirking her lips slightly at the interplay between Jaenelle and Prospero, she shoots Margot a grin. "And once my Lord Prospero has properly bored you, and I've found enough trouble for our Prince to engage in, I shall swoop in and rescue you and show you all the delights of our home." Sketching a small curtsey to Jarek. "Your Highness. Always a pleasure."


"Funny. I don't see Lord Victus standing around here anywhere. Perhaps you should direct your ire to the man who caused it," Darren replies bluntly to Aureth, though his focus shifts to Donella as she sheers off her own braid with the offered knife. His brow arches, and he just shakes his head, the sword dropped back into its sheath with a whisper of steel before he holds out his arm to Donella. Aureth is simply given one last long look before he shakes his head and leads the woman away, his head tilting to whisper something to her as he brings her over to one of the long tables, where he can take up a cup and hoist it up to her. "To Queen Genevieve," he offers in somewhat repeat of his, Aureth kept in the corner of his eye.

Aureth carefully coils the silky raven braid piece Donella just gave him around his hand, and tucks it neatly into the pouch he's wearing -- a pouch far too fine for the role he has taken as amateur Robin Hood, mind, but that's his mother's fault, not his. He sketches an elaborate bow to Donella, far more deep in his respect than he has been to date, and then takes a step back, permitting the tension of the moment to recede. His knuckles press hard against the portion of his vest over his chest, and he breathes out, saying a single word quietly beneath his breath that /could/ be Genevieve's name, but then, he isn't drinking anything, so it might be rude to toast, or something.

Jaenelle pauses as she steps back, head tilting to turn her ear towards Margot. There is a thoughtful look on her face even as she handles those around her. "Legendary indeed" she teases Prospero, dipping her head slightly as he moves to be excused. When Jarek approaches, she beams a smile at the man, "I certainly better be your favorite. I would pout until you've changed your mind from whomever it was you thought was. Lady Juliet, I am sure you will be a wonderful influence for my brother" She then finally answers Margot's whispered words even as she lifts a cup to honor her family member.

Valerius grabs a drink and takes a sip to the toast, he nods at Juliet, "Don't worry, I miss stuff all the time, if you just match the attitude of people around you and nod accordingly, people assume you know what's going on." he says, "Works every time." he glances to Jaenelle, "Oh come on, I'm not that bad. I just have an... Interesting life."

"My, already always a pleasure" Jarek says with a grin to Juliet "no wonder you're so well liked Lady Fidante, or perhaps just a sign that you've not spent enough time with me." Jarek offers a bright smile to Margot "M'lady, I don't think I've had the opportunity, its a pleasure to meet you, I am Jarek of Velenosa, with the wonderful company you're keeping I am sure you're a fascinating person." And then that smile offered to Valerius "Its a pleasure to meet you as well m'lord, I'm not sure i've met you either."

Margot blinks at Juliet and then laughs softly, "I enjoy quiet talks, am sorry to admit. I do not boar easily." She too pauses to lift her cup, her smile turning saddened, after all the Queen was one of the more gentle members of the Thrax family. Once her glass lowers she offers a nod to JArek, "Indeed it seems we have not your highness though I know some of your cousins well. It is a pleasure to finally make your aquaintence."


When the knife has been settled, Natalia just watches the people move throughout the area. Her eyes slide to Aureth for a few moments, but Donella dealt with it regally. So she inclines her head to her friend and walks back over towards Sabella. A hand will come out to brush Juliet's arm lightly in a greeting as she passes her. Then she arrives to Freja and Sabella (if they are still together). "It is officially an event. There has been a knife and a moment of drama. Now we can say Donella has had a wonderful perfect event." The words cause a stir to her eyes as she turns to look at the statue. "To Queen Genevieve."


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

Jaenelle blushes, properly embarrassed at the rude way she has failed to introduce her people. "Prince Jarek Velenosa. This is Lady Margot Tyde, and my brother Prince Valerius Thrax." The blush quickly fades as she has set the universe in proper order now.

Freja has found herself standing off to the side, speaking softly with a commoner woman who has a child on her hip. The Princess has a soft smile as they converse, ignoring the other nobles for now.

"I'll be sure to let you know if it changes, your Highness," Juliet murmurs quietly to Jarek. "To Queen Genevieve." Adding words to her raised cup, and giving a quick little nod to Valerius as well, gracing him with an upturn of the corners of her lips. Sipping from her cup and using her free hand to pat gently with gloved fingers at Margot's wrist. "Cousin Prospero is remarkable, I assure you, and will put your words to the test. And once I have shown you the wonders of the Villa, I shall return you to him safe and unharmed, and with plenty of other quiet conversation buzzing in your head."

Nowhere near a drink to raise toast, Sophie nonetheless raises her voice to echo the others, "To Queen Genevieve!" And then it's back to work, the contents of the Valardin wagon dwindling.

Donella, with her new, albeit... rough haircut, which will be in need of fixing later, quaffs a beverage with chilled fingers, and says, "It has been an eventful year, full of sorrows and hardships for us all. We have lost things and people dear to us. But we have found refuge in one another. The city of Arx is cold tonight, but your hearts leave it warmer through your duty to your fellow citizen of the Compact. Let us all work in the year to come to make the legacy of generosity you have begun tonight last. To all of you." She charges her glass a second time, and leaves them to make merry and continue with their charitable giving.

"As I said, it's my pleasure as well Lady Tyde" Jarek says warmly to Margot "you clearly know my dear cousin-in-law, so surely you've already met some of my other dear cousins." And a grin to Valerius "And Prince Thrax, its good to meet you properly." Jarek smiles at Jaenelle as well "thank you for the introductions, and you certainly are still my favorite cousin-in-law." Jarek grins and laughs happily to Juliet "it will be interesting if it does change Lady Fidante, at the very least it will mean something interesting has happened, no? Nothing wrong with a little bit of change."

Sabelle finishes handing out the rest of her candy, and she smiles to Natalia as she joins her, "Yes, it is most certaintly an event." It takes her a little effort, but soon she has a glass in her hand, which she raises in toast. She takes a sip. She looks around as the others here, "There are still so many that I have not met before. She then leans over to Natalia and whisper into her ear. "Do you know who that man is..?"

Valerius smiles, "Gosh Jaenelle, so rude, taking so long to introduce me." he shakes his head with a sigh, laughter in his eyes, "It's a pleasure to meet you Prince Velenosa." he says, "Seems like there are too many people around whom I haven't met, maybe I need to expand my social activities he says. Maybe something that doesn't involve... Well, all the stuff my sister doesn't like."

Margot ohs softly to Juliet, "That sounds like a lovely proposal." Before her head dips to Jarek, "Indeed it is, thank you." She pauses. "If your highness' will excuse me a moment...." And steps back, crooking a finger to a servant (thrall) in Thraxian livery.


Darren will finally return his full attention to Donella after Aureth had slunk far enough away, taking a gulp of whatever is inside his cup at her words. "Here, here," he murmurs in agreement, before lifting his cup to his lips again to finish off its contents and set it aside. "This was a very good idea, Princess," he says to Donella, as his eyes float about those who have gathered. He stays close enough to the Thraxian princess, perhaps just to ensure no one else starts brandishing daggers, his voice lowering as he says a few more words to her privately.

"Depends on what the change is, I suppose. Perhaps it could be a different kind of pleasure." Juliet idly muses, glancing over to Jarek again, then waggles her gloved fingers to Margot as she slips away. Making sure to tug her cloak tight around her, still not revealing what, if anything, she's wearing beneath.

Natalia lifts her hand up in toast to the others here. Then she smiles towards Freya, but pauses to hear Sabelle's inquiry. "Do I know.." Those deep blue eyes move through the area and land on Jarek. For a moment, there is no reaction, but there doesn't need to be. Her warm blue eyes tint to an icy shading as she drops her voice to her cousin's ear. Those eyes warming as they leave the Velenosian prince.

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

Aureth has definitely slunk off, btw. He's found a place to lean in a corner again, watching them as they eat and drink. He doesn't retreat so far as to look like he's turning tail and hiding in the bushes, but. He's not deliberately antagonizing them anymore, either.

Jaenelle tsks at Juliet, "Prospero has never once bored me with conversation. More often than not, I am asking him a question about law, and he is telling me it would be a bad idea to go through with it. The villa is lovely though, and I could certainly use another visit to the Fidante home." Something catches her eye and she can't help but laugh, offering a random wink in Donella's direction and a quickly mouthed 'later'. She than continues her casual conversation, patting her brother's arm, "nothing you do displeases me, my favorite brother. I trust all you do" even the good Thraxian woman. Then she rolls her eyes.

Jarek grins at Valerius "if its meeting people you'd like to do, we should go out for a drink some time Prince Thrax. You meet all kinds of interesting people talking to strangers while drinking wine." There is a pull of his attention to Juliet though, talk of change will grab his attention. "Your life would be awfully dull without new experiences. Change is the very breath of life."

"Prospero tries desperately to hold life to the illusion that he is a staid lawyer with nothing but scholarly interests, your Highness. I am merely helping." Juliet points out, with another grin. "If his Lycene heritage and good taste in wine was publicly known, he might find himself invited to parties, and then where would we be?" The Fidante having found herself a sweet spot between the two princes, sticking close both to Jarek and Valerius for as long as possible.

Sabella's eyebrows raise slightly as she hears whispered words, and she smiles to her cousin. She nods toward something else spoken to her in secret. She looks at the others in attendance, and then murmurs something to her cousin. She takes a few sips of wine.

Margot sends off a the thrall and then looks as if she might step back to Jaenelle's side but pauses realizing perhaps that she's free of company and immediate obligations. And as such the lady steps back further, creeping towards the periphery of the crowd.

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

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

Aureth exchanges a quick murmur with a messenger, and then scrubs at his face, trying to chase the barest hint of smile on his lips in case anyone catches him thinking himself funny after that little excursion.

Valerius nods to Jarek, "I never turn down a drink." he says, "We will definately need to do that." he states, he notices how close Jaenelle is and subtly works himself just a little closer not inappropriately just a subtle, 'I'm ok with how this is going' gesture.

Donella implores in a joking voice of Darren as she motions to the folk of the neighborhood to come and take heaping trenchers of the foodstuffs. She clearly does not want to deal with leftovers. "Am I still pretty?!" She begins to drift toward the musicians, who, bless them are still trying to keep up a shuddering tune.

"I'll conceede to that, and I don't mind change - but like I said, some changes are for the better, some for the worse." Juliet concludes. "I don't think anything you said conflicts with what I said." Offering Jarek a big grin. "And yes, perhaps."

Natalia considers the area and then tucks her arm through Sabella. She will move with the woman over to Donella and Darren, if she does not protest. "Donella, my glorious dear. You have shown all the courage of the red sea serpent and I am proud to call you my friend. As well, perhaps we should start a trend with a shorter hair." Then she beams a smile at Darren. "And you, High Prince, I have never seen one so fiercesome as to protect the honor of a woman. The legends I tell about you are now going to be perfectly honest." She gives a teasing smile. "Have you both met Princess Sabella Grayson? My cousin and sister to Lou---" Yeah, she looks around a moment. "--cia?"


Donella asks of Natalia, "Why can't anyone say her name? Should I ask at the gala?"

Jaenelle turns to look backward at the stepped back Margot, giving her a warm smile and nod of her head should she wish to leave. "Soon" she tells her, reaching to squeeze the Tyde's arm. "Very soon." She looks quite pleased as Val and Juliet are getting along. Jarek is given a grin when he states she is his favorite.


Darren glances over Donella, pursing his lips thoughtfully at her question as he leads her over to the musicians. "I suppose there is still something appealing about you, Princess," he replies with a smirk, a hint of a sparkle in his blue eyes. His focus drifts as Natalia and Sabella approach, chuckling warmly at Natalia from her praise. "Surely, you have a way with words, Princess Natalia," he says to her, before inclining his head to Sabella. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

Jarek nods at Valerius "alright then. We'll go for a drink some time. I feel between a Prince of Thrax and a Prince of Velenosa we can get up to a suitable level of interesting situations. And I doubt it would be all that hard to turn it into some kind of an event." Jarek grins back at Juliet "well, Lady Fidante, part of me wants to get all theological and argue that all change can be good, even the bad ones, but I will save you from myself and not speak anymore on that. I shouldn't start lecturing at someone who just said they agree with me."

Juliet is overheard praising Donella for: Her Highness handles herself with astute aplomb and grace.

Margot is caught up in Jaenelle's grasp and pauses with a nod. "Indeed. Soon." She whispers back to the princess. "Come to the house." She winks and turns, pulling her cloak tighter around her as she slips away."

Donella is overheard praising Juliet for: DEFINITELY too kind.

Aureth is overheard praising Donella for: You didn't hear it from me, but she definitely looks hotter now.

Aureth slips away from the crowd, running a hand absently through his shorn hair like he's not sure what to do with it now.

Sabella follows Natalia over to the group, and she smiles as she is introduced. "A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness. This has been a very enjoyable event. I have never seen so many children so happy. I wished I would have brought more candy for them."

"The decent thing to do would be to get me drunk before you start lecturing, your highness." Juliet points out to Jarek. "Then everyone wins. And we experience a state of change as it happens, too." Tugging her cloak a little tighter, and suppressing a shiver.

Natalia laughs towards Donella's comment. "Darling, you know that I do not care what is desired if I wish to do it. I just had to know if I was going to have a sword across the back of my head. She so detests her name. I cannot blame her. It's not like her name is... Natalia." Thankfully there can only be one. That smile is full of warmth for Darren. It seems she likes the man. "Oh it is easy with words when they are to be given to a man as noble as yourself. Why, if I were not such a weak woman..." She does NOT think herself weak and they should know that. ".. I would transpire to make you a spouse. Then I could sit around all day gloriously and wistfully sighing that I got to spend my evenings with you." A sigh flits past her lips in a sound of dramatic expression. "Sadly, that is not to be as I am sure your most strong, firmly beating heart is taken by another. One whom you wouldn't have to teach to wield your mighty sword. Though, I am still awaiting the lesson most eagerly."

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

"Then, I owe you a bottle of wine. Or two perhaps, Lady Fidante." Jarek says with a smirk as he looks at the shivering lady and then over to one of the fire-barrels "I like where your head is at Lady Fidante, but shall we move the group over somewhere warmer perhaps?" he asks to Jaenelle and Valerius in addition to Juliet.

Donella says to Sabella, "Well, maybe next week you will be out tossing them from a parade cart. I love a good parade. And the children love candies. Perhaps in the spring, we could plan it together."

Valerius nods to Jarek, "Sounds like fun!" he says gamely, then glances to Juliet noticing the shiver, he removes his cloak with a bit of flourish that is probably practiced and holds it by the shoulders as if he's about to put it around someone's shoulders, he gestures to Juliet, "May I?" he asks, the cold seeming not to bother him all that much as he has dressed appropriately for the weather

The wool coat she wears is of a flattering cut, but that is obscured by the Mercy of Lagoma tabard laid atop it. Deep hood drawn forward, soft scarf of greys and blues gathered beneath her chin, a rosy cheeked and nosed Sophie finally manages to extricate herself from the Valardin wagon and make her way towards Donella, waiting for lull before she amiably greets, "Your Highness."

"You'll cover up my roses," Juliet offers in mock-complaint to Valerius, though she's happy to lean into the extra layer of cloth that a second cloak will bring. Giving a quick nod to Jarek. "I think a warmer place wouldn't go amiss."

"YOUR Highness," Donella counters, greeting Sophie Valardin. "I need to follow you about, it seems, to see how to give aid effectively."


Darren quirks a brow at Natalia, offering a low laugh. "Well, perhaps it's best that you don't try to make yourself my spouse. A wife who sits around wistfully sighing all day long sounds like an incredible bore," he replies, before he returns his focus to Donella and grins. "Speaking of not boring things, when is it that we'll be having our race?" he questions her, though his focus then drifts to the Mercy as she approaches, a warm smile offered to Sophie. "Good evening, Princess Sophie," he says cheerfully to her, inclining his head to the woman.

Valerius lays the cloak around Juliet's shoulders, his hand having the faintest of 'accidental' brushes against the nape of her neck, "They'll see the rose that's wearing the cloak." he says, then looks to Jarek, "So, we're heading someplace warmer and with a lot of wine?"

Jarek looks to Valerus and Jaenelle, about to ask those two, then a smirk to Valerius "warmer with wine sounds delightful if everyone is in agreement."

Natalia laughs as well when Darren does. "To be fair, Dearest, it sounds boring for the woman. I can't even manage to stay home between all the social meetings. Could you imagine?" There is a lean in to talk to Donella before she brightens and looks around the area. "OH! Sabella darling, she's leaving now but you should most definitely meet Lady Juliet."

Juliet shivers again, though perhaps not because of the cold this time, giving a quick nod to Jarek's words as well. Sometimes, though, one hears one's name across the distance and that's distraction of its own - spotting Natalia with Donella and Darren and Sabella, she beams as bright as she can, and raises her red-gloved hand in a little wave to the group.

Sabella listens to the conversation around her. She purses her lips when Natalia calls herself weak. And she grins at the dramatic expression. She nods to Donella's suggestion, "I would love to do something fun for spring. Perhaps fruit tarts. I do adore children." When Natalia calls to her, she follows the woman's gesture and she nods in agreement. She makes her way to where Valerius and Juliet stand. Juliet helps with her waved hand. She offers them a warm greeting, "Good day to you. I was told I should meet you all. I am Princess Sabella Grayson." She offers her hand to Valerius.

"Ha!" Donella says Darren. "Anxious to lose, are you? I'm waiting for the ice to thaw from Legate's Leap, so that you don't kill yourself and poor Bear trying to beat me and Horse." To Natalia and Sabella, she says, "Will you please take her my gratitude, as well? She has been most generous." She raises a hand to wave back in that direction.

Jaenelle watches as Juliet gets her brother's cloak instead of her. She can't help but laugh and shake her head, the damn charmer. "I will let you all go along" she tells the small gathering. "I have had too much fun for one evening."