AWRR2 Chapter 1

AWRR2 Chapter logs Chapter 1 Next

Summary

Session date: 2025-07-16

In Game date: Spring 1026

Spring is once again descending upon the Nerathi Confederacy and its capital of Highmark. With the change of the season comes also the arrival of high society from across Nerath as they vie for station and power amidst the glamour and glitz of the social season to come. As ever, while many people will arrive days or even weeks before the season officially starts, the widely-recognized start of the social season is the Sehanine Spring Masquerade hosted by Councilman Jesseryn Callais. His home, The Arbor, has acres of gardens with species of plants from across the Confederacy and beyond, and even some specimens that exist nowhere else on Arth. The theme this year is the Harrow, though rumours suggest perhaps the Councilman was not responsible for this choice; he's known to place little stock in portents and divinations.

Galatea Beatrice Klytotekhnes Hestion and Frederick "Fritz" Allard Scrye chat in the carriage on the way to the event

Kitty comes to pick up Atreyvin "Trev" Marceador, and gets to know Akiterryl Eitstand Jormun as the trio travel to the ball

Saiya Harrowden arrives with Mitula and meet up with Euphrastus Tinnane Graeae, and the groups talks of travel and adventure.

Kitty, Trev, and Akiterryl meet up with Saiya, her brother Mhireeen, and Euphrastus once they arrive.

Molgrin Braalk and Firrin (Liralu) Malassar run into each other unexpectedly, and catch up until Paiza shows up unexpectedly, and Firrin tells Mol he's engaged.

Norn Yosk and Raveni Pesha meet up outside in the gardens, and are joined by Mitula, also seekign refuge from the crowd and separated from Saiya. The three talk plants for a while, and are then joined by Mol and Firrin, who have also come outside for some air as Mitula takes her leave. They all discuss their various interest,s attracting ther attention of Fritz who had come outside to admire the greenhouse. Liralu slips away, but the others keep talking and make friends, as well as plans for the future.

Euganva Graeae checks in on her son, Euphrastus, to see how his evening is going.

Galatea meets Euphrastus. He shows her his puppet, she shows him her prostheses.

Mol check up on Fritz, and the two wind up dancing

Session

Intro

<Narrator> Spring is once again descending upon the Nerathi Confederacy and its capital of Highmark. With the change of the season comes also the arrival of high society from across Nerath as they vie for station and power amidst the glamour and glitz of the social season to come.
<Narrator> As ever, while many people will arrive days or even weeks before the season officially starts, the widely-recognized start of the social season is the Sehanine Spring Masquerade hosted by Councilman Jesseryn Callais. His home, The Arbor, has acres of gardens with species of plants from across the Confederacy and beyond, and even some specimens that exist nowhere else on Arth.
<Narrator> The theme this year is the Harrow, though rumours suggest perhaps the Councilman was not responsible for this choice; he's known to place little stock in portents and divinations.

Galatea and Fritz chat in the carriage on the way to the event

* Galatea will fidget with her dress for the hundredth time, smoothing out a non-existant wrinkle.
<Fritz> you look good!
* Fritz tries to reassure her
* Galatea smiles shyly.
* Fritz is wearing a suit in opposite/contrasting colours
<Galatea> Thanks. I'm just nervous. I know not everyone will be looking at me, or even anyone at all, possibly, but, still.
<Galatea> And you look very handsome as well.
* Raveni (uid707655@id-707655.hampstead.irccloud.com) has joined #awrr2
<Fritz> Well, really its supposed to be fun, anyway, isn't it?
<Fritz> oh thanks ^-^
<Fritz> I want to see the greenhouse, I hear its very impressive constructions....
* Galatea nods.
<Fritz> So I will focus on that and try not to think abotu the people too much ;x
<Galatea> I read about it. The engineering and manufacturing process...it's fascinating.
* Akiterryl (uid711748@id-711748.lymington.irccloud.com) has joined #awrr2
<Galatea> Though I do think we're supposed to spend *some
* time actually talking to people. ;)
<Fritz> well... yes
<Fritz> I did promise mother...
<Galatea> And I'm sure she'll be watching. >.>
<Fritz> >.>
<Galatea> But, hey, the Arbor is huge, I hear, so we can get lost if we need to.
<Fritz> but, you know... just in case...
* Fritz looks around shiftily and pulls a thin notebook out of his jacket
* Galatea frowns in interest.
<Galatea> What've you got?
<Fritz> oh just some ideas I was workign on :x
* Galatea will take a look.
<Fritz> theyr'e really just... you know...
<Fritz> not much to thyehm yet but if I get an idea I don'r want to lose it, you know?
<Galatea> (What are they? Architectural sketches?)
<Fritz> (yeah, architecture and landscape design things)
<Galatea> Fritz, these are quite good! Is that the arch at Our Lady of Jurisprudence? (An Erathin temple I just made up ;) )
<Fritz> Oh does it look too much like it? :(
<Fritz> I was thinking about ti a bit hmmm... Maybe too much :/
<Fritz> well its just practice anyway
<Galatea> No, I just mean I recognized the influence.
<Fritz> oh, okay then
<Galatea> It *is
* good, I promise.
* Fritz looks less dismayed
<Galatea> (Shall we say we've arrived?)
<Fritz> (sure)
* Fritz tucks it back away
<Fritz> okay time to be Lord Frederick...
* Galatea tries an encouraging smile.
<Galatea> Shall we?
<Fritz> okay
* Fritz will climb out once the door is opened, and offer her a hand down
* Galatea takes it, her eyes wide as she takes in the excitement even of the arrival area.
<Fritz> oh my, look at everyone's costumes :o
<Galatea> You don't think we're under-dressed, do you? :/
<Fritz> no, I think we really hit the theme at least... well.., as long as we stick together.... not thatwe do have to!
<Fritz> We'll just have to tll people to look out for the evil twin though, if we get separated :x
* Galatea grins at that.
<Galatea> Well, nothing for it then.
* Galatea will take Fritz's arm and head towards the announcing line.
* Fritz will head in with her!

Kitty comes to pick up Trev, and gets to know Akiterryl as Team Sluts travel together to the ball

* Kitty_O 's carriage will pull up to the Marceador residence (wherever you are staying this season)
* Akiterryl will be very grateful!
<Fritz> oooh, Trev who is this?
<Fritz> (lol ignor that I'm getting confused alreaddy)
<Kitty_O> ooooh Trev who is this?
* Kitty_O looks out at the elf as the footman opens the door for everyone
<Akiterryl> Akiterryl steps into the carriage
<Akiterryl> Hello, thank you ever so much for giving me conveyance to the festivities this evening
<Kitty_O> Oooh, absolutely! I love to make new friends :D
<Akiterryl> [[ettles in and finds the cushioning extraordinarily comfortable]
<Trev> *This*, my friend, is my other new friend Akiterryl, of House [Whichever]
<Kitty_O> I'm glad I was told to bring the Big People coarriage though.
<Kitty_O> oh wonderful! And I'm ~Lady Katherina whitbottom orsino~ but really just Kitty is fine among friends ^-^
<Trev> well, I mean, Everett will be riding on the *back*
<Akiterryl> I don't believe I've had the pleasure of your aquiaintance, I'm Captain Akiterryl Eitstand of Jormun
<Kitty_O> oh a captain, how dashing!
<Kitty_O> What kind of captain?
<Akiterryl> [blushes} Thank you! I captain the True North, a fine ship but I'm moving up the ranks rapidly father says and I hope to make Admiral by thirty!
<Trev> Ooh, an actual *seagoing* vessel? And here I thought all we were going to have were airships
* Trev gives Akiterryl a once-over
<Trev> Lucky us ;)
<Kitty_O> she didn't say it was a seaship - is it though?
<Kitty_O> but lucky us either way ^-^
<Kitty_O> I think a sea captain would be more fun though... lots of rope
<Akiterryl> It is! I know some don't see the value of an ocean going ship there are still plenty of vessels that threaten our ports that airships miss
* Kitty_O says innocently
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryl raises a knowing eyebrow]
<Akiterryl> oh yes, quite a lot of rope actually
<Kitty_O> >:)
<Kitty_O> Oh yes, I can see how you are friends with Trev ^_^
<Kitty_O> have you been to highmark before?
<Akiterryl> and one cannot become a captain without knowing how to tie every knot quite securely
<Trev> Why, you must know *so many* knots, perhaps you could show us later?
<Kitty_O> oh yes a demonstration!
<Akiterryl> I'd be very happy to! Maybe after our first bottle of champagne?
<Kitty_O> you mean this champagne?
* Kitty_O fishes around and produces a bottle
<Kitty_O> there should be glasses in here too, hmmm....
<Akiterryl> Oh I do love a lady who's well preparedW
* Kitty_O hunts around a bit and fishes them out
<Akiterryl> {Akiterryl pops the cork}
<Akiterryl> and then helps fill the glasses
<Kitty_O> I do my best! Not so well as my sister in such affairs but I try my best!
<Akiterryl> A toast perhaps? To a successful season?
<Trev> May we all get *everything* we desire
<Akiterryl> oh pish poss! I'm sure you're far better than your sister Kitty!
<Kitty_O> well yes of course I am :V
<Kitty_O> but *she* has a dragonmark that lets her create perfect food and drink, you see. The perfect hostess.
<Akiterryl> {holds up her glass} I think it takes more skill to do it without magic if you ask me
<Trev> That's what I *always* tell her, it's good to have someone who agrees with me
<Akiterryl> {she nods then takes a sip} Oh this is quite a good vintage!
<Kitty_O> You would think so, but she always uts so much work into studying it. Anyway, she's not here, so! Whitbottoms up, as they say ;)
* Trev gives Kitty a wink and drinks
* Kitty_O grins
<Akiterryl> I'm not desparagging magic of course! its just that both require work and dedication you know?
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryl notes the wink and files it away}
<Kitty_O> Oh, not at all! I do miss my sister some, though, even if she NEVER let me have any fun :(
<Akiterryl> [puts chin in her hand] You don't say, why doesn't she let a grown woman have the fun she likes?
* Kitty_O laughs
<Kitty_O> well, I wasn't *exactly* a grown woman when she married and moved away
<Kitty_O> I'm only 18 now!
<Akiterryl> but surely you are now!
<Kitty_O> do you have any siblings?
<Trev> I should hope she's an adult, with a belly like that
<Kitty_O> oh pffft i'm hardly showing.
<Akiterryl> Oh my!
<Kitty_O> At least not in this dress...
<Akiterryl> well it seems congratulations are in order!
* Kitty_O floofs the empire waisted confection with lots of ribbons and bows
<Akiterryl> It is quite a fetching gown
<Kitty_O> and maybe but its not *public* knowledge yet, not until after the wedding next month >.>
<Kitty_O> thank you!
<Kitty_O> maybe its a bit too on the nose but...
* Kitty_O holds up a mask
<Akiterryl> I see, I see. Fear not fair lady, I am the very soul of discretion
<Kitty_O> voila, the courtesan '_
<Kitty_O> ;)
<Akiterryl> Clever costume indeed!
* Trev waves his little whip around* Mine won't be complete until we arrive, but there's a reason I brought Everett tonight
<Kitty_O> well its simple but it suits
* Kitty_O sighs and shakes her head
<Kitty_O> That poor thing
<Akiterryl> My my look at the whip
<Akiterryl> a jockey perhaps?
<Trev> The Taskmaster, with Everett as my loyal mount
<Akiterryl> what an excellent costune!
<Kitty_O> well it will certainly draw attention!
<Trev> that's the plan
<Kitty_O> hopefully not form any Warforge Rights activists :p
* Trev winks
<Trev> *well*, I mean, it's not like I'm not *paying* him, or that he didn't *agree* to it
* Kitty_O rolls her eyes
<Kitty_O> Trev we have *talked* about this
<Kitty_O> Youre *paying* him so he *has* to agree
<Kitty_O> anyway, I may steal him away for a dance and some fresh air
<Akiterryl> oh my goodness. Well I say if he agreed and is getting paid there's no harm done
<Kitty_O> I'm sure you can find someone else to use that thing on ;)
* Kitty_O nods to the whip
<Akiterryl> sputters a bit then has a big sip of her drink
<Akiterryl> Maybe I should do that knot demonstration earlier rather than later {with a sly wink}
* Kitty_O giggles
<Trev> Ooh, perhaps you could give both [waves his whip] a try on me?
<Kitty_O> early and often I say ^_^
<Akiterryl> she smiles and has another sip, "well I have done four at once, two should be quite easy"
* Trev shares a loof of surprise with Kitty
<Trev> I believe we are going to be *very* good friends
<Akiterryl> "Oh I do hope so. As you might image, life at sea can get a bit lonely and its been ages since I've enjoyed a proper shore leave"
<Kitty_O> hmmm! four!
<Kitty_O> well, you shall have to come by the temple sometime, for sure ^-^
<Trev> Does that beat your record, Kitty?
<Akiterryl> I'd love to and record? Oh do tell!
<Kitty_O> Now now, I can't reveal *all* my secrets, trev ^_^
<Kitty_O> you'll have to involve yourself and see ^_^
<Akiterryl> "Well then I'll certainly pay the temple a visit" [said with a smile as she has another sip}
<Kitty_O> excellent ^_^
<Akiterryl> So Trev, do tell me about yourself, I must admit I'm curious
<Trev> Well, I'm a Marceador, my father was from Yonden, you know, and he now runs the first and *best* Shoam Oddities business to be found. We moved over when it arose, of course, since my father was a friend of Roscoe.
<Trev> [Roscoe is a warforged who became a god within living memory, he was from Highmark]
<Akiterryl> [nods as she listens intently} What an honor for your father to have been a friend of one of the gods. I'll have to pay a visit to your father's shop, one never knows when one could use a good oddity or two
<Kitty_O> I think it sounds liek such a fun place! I've never been tho Shom though, not yet, anyway!
<Akiterryl> perhaps we should go on a little shopping trip sometime!
<Trev> Whenever we do go, I can show you all around. Did you know that there's an aquarium now? It's like a fish menagerie, you can stroll through and see them through walls made entirely of glass!
<Kitty_O> oh my!
<Kitty_O> ....are fish worth looking at?
<Akiterryl> I'll say!
<Akiterryl> have either of you ever seen a whale?
<Trev> Oooh, no, tell me everything
<Kitty_O> do they keep whales in aquariums?
<Kitty_O> I don't think Shom even had much water, does it?
<Akiterryl> I don't think they could keep them in an aquarium, they are as big as a frigate! I've even heard tale of one that was mad and starting hunting ships, deliberately attacking them and then devouring the crew!
<Trev> Oh my!
<Kitty_O> oh my!
<Kitty_O> that sounds frightening :o
<Kitty_O> have you ever encountered anyrthign like that?
<Kitty_O> I must here *all* your exciting stories ^-^
<Akiterryl> I've seen a whale once, off the starboard bow about a dozen yards or so. Its skin was black as coal and it let out a great water spout as it leap from the sea. We watched it but thankfully it left us alone.
<Kitty_O> amazing!
<Akiterryl> I've never seen a sea beast so large in my life!
<Kitty_O> but - oh, I think we must be arriving!
<Akiterryl> How exciting!
<Kitty_O> (let's say we can get out and introduces and moved inside, looking around for people of interest)
<Akiterryl> sound good to me

Saiya arrives with Mitula, and they meet up with Euphrastus

* Saiya will arrive at the ball, all buzzing with excitement at the evening's entertainment
* Mitula is with her, with a big smile.
* Mitula wears a light blue scarf around her head, held with a clasp in the back, leaving twin trails of fabric that run down past her shoulders, with a simple blue and white butterfly mask. Robes are white coloured with iridescent butterflies woven into the fabric.
* Saiya is dressed in her costume for the evening, a shimmery grey gown, narrow at the waist but widening further down, with layers of ruffles to represent the Cyclone.
* Mitula sleeves are long and loose cut to the forearm. Her hands covered in grey gloves and she wears fine pewter chain bracelets that hang loose from her wrists.
<Mitula> I do hope this meets expectations. I had to quickly put something together.
<Saiya> I think it looks lovely!
<Mitula> I do like your ruffles.
<Saiya> You think so? I wasn't sure about the grey, you know, it's so plain, but everyone said you can't have a pink Cyclone.
<Saiya> at least it has some sparkles
* Mitula give a little giggle
<Mitula> A pink Cyclone would be a sight.
<Saiya> Well I don't know, there are so many strange things in this world, why not that?
<Saiya> But I suppose the grey is FINE.
* Saiya says, a bit petulantly
<Mitula> Thank you again for letting me accompany you. I feared I would be lost in such an event.
<Saiya> Oh I'm happy you were able to join us!
<Saiya> I definitely will make sure you don't get lost. I know my way ALL around the Arbor.
* Saiya says with perhaps overconfidence
<Mitula> I appreciate your cunning in this.
<Mitula> Fortunately if we get seperated, I should be easy to spot.
<Mitula> I suspect I will be watching you dance and spin soon enough.
* Saiya giggles
<Saiya> Well I'm sure there will be just DOZENS of people who want to dance with you
<Mitula> If only that were true, but I can hope.
<Mitula> I'm not much of a dancer.
<Saiya> Well then we can watch and just make fun of people ;)
<Mitula> If that is what is done, then I guess we must.
* Saiya giggles again
<Saiya> Well it MIGHT be mean but anyway, sometimes people are just asking to be made fun of ;p
<Mitula> as long as its kept in good fun.
<Saiya> MMM perhaps ^-^
<Mitula> Are going to get me into no good, Saiya? I'm not necessarily opposed. Just want to be forwarned.
* Saiya twinkles innocently
<Saiya> I would NEVER :D
<Mitula> If you say so.
* Mitula gives her a quick wink.
* Saiya grins cheerfully
<Mitula> So where shall we start?
<Saiya> Well do you want to do a little tour around, so we can see who is here and what sort of entertainment is on offer, before we get bogged down with PEOPLE?
<Mitula> yes lets
* Saiya will take your arm so we can stroll around the area and see what's going on
* Euphrastus is a cyclops, a foot or more taller than most of the guests, thin and lanky. He is wearing an embroidered purple robe lined with white fur around the collar and cuffs. He has several silver rings on each hand, and an elaborate amber-and-silver breastplate pendant engraved with mystical symbols. A monocle rests on his eye, with a fine silver chain attached on the right side.
<Euphrastus> On his shoulder sits a cloth figure, perhaps a foot tall. It is a three-eyed human-like puppet dressed just like Euphrastus, who is here representing the Theater. But where Euphrastus himself has just one eye, the puppet has three, with the central eye in its forehead made of faceted red crystal, staring as if into your soul, and also wearing a tiny monocle.
* Euphrastus enters the room with confidence, looking over (and overtop) the gathering group to see who is already here.
<Saiya> Ooh, your costume is so .... so DARING :D
* Saiya says as she and Mitula walk by Euphrastus
<Euphrastus> Ahh, thank you, Miss Harrowden. Of course, I knew you were going to say that ... or rather, Trip did.
<Saiya> He DID???
* Euphrastus nods in the direction of his little companion.
* Saiya looks amazed
<Euphrastus> Trip sees many things.
<Mitula> Trip is an unusual name for a prophet.
<Euphrastus> He is, of course, the Triple-Eyed God.
* Mhireen is now known as Norn
<Euphrastus> Trip for short.
<Euphrastus> And, he is, as you can see, quite short.
* Mitula giggles
<Euphrastus> It is good to see you here, Mitula. It has been a while.
<Saiya> Are you here with anyone particular tonight? Other than Trip.
<Mitula> And you Euphrastus. One more familiar face does put me more at ease.
<Euphrastus> No one in particular. Although, of course, I will keep at least one eye open for those who are available. I suppose Mother will be around here somewhere, keeping her eye on me as well.
<Saiya> Oh you're so FUNNY :D
* Saiya giggles
* Euphrastus laughs deeply.
<Euphrastus> Well if you know of any young gentlemen who might feel the same way, do send them my way.
<Saiya> I will, of COURSE! I am excellent at matchmaking :D
<Euphrastus> While I have spent many an hour hanging about at the Arbor with Mother, this masquerade business is new to me.
* Saiya says with unwarranted confidence
<Mitula> We'll keep one eye open for you.
<Euphrastus> Are you allowed to tell such jokes? I am deeply offended!
* Euphrastus nudges you.
* Saiya giggles
<Mitula> I thought you'd be more offended if I said both eyes.
<Euphrastus> This is the first season for you both as well, am I right about that?
<Saiya> Yes, it's my first :D
<Mitula> Very true for myself.
<Mitula> Saiya has promised to aid me with her wisdom and guidance through this Harrowing experience.
* Saiya giggles
<Euphrastus> Well, it is in her name, and one should not underestimate the power of names. They attach themselves to things, to places, and are very hard to unstick.
<Saiya> Well it did attach itself to me, it's true!
<Saiya> But I wouldn't want to unstick it anyhow
<Euphrastus> You both look stunning this evening. Great credit to your tailors.
<Saiya> Why THANK YOU!
* Saiya twirls to show off her dress
<Mitula> I am greatfull to Lord Uthyr in aiding me in assembling this outfit, although I feel it is a mixed message for Big Sky.
<Mitula> I just like butterflies.
<Euphrastus> Last month I saw a remarkable butterfly brooch in a private collection. Platinum and emerald. It was absolutely compelling.
<Euphrastus> Naturally I cannot disclose the owner, but it was an exquisite capstone to a marvelous assemblage.
<Saiya> Fancy!
<Mitula> A sadness it lies concealed away in some manor, instead of fluttering around to see.
<Euphrastus> Well, it is possible that it will grace someone's breast this evening. Trip knows many things, but does not know that.
<Saiya> well we should keep an EYE out for it :D
* Euphrastus laughs, definitely a bit too loudly, as his booming bass echoes across the chamber.
* Euphrastus looks momentarily embarrassed, then assembles himself.
<Mitula> fine young lads and platinum butterflies. Quite the scavenger hunt you've presented us Euphrastus.
* Euphrastus chuckles.
<Saiya> Well, we ought to keep mingling, but it was lovely to see you here :D
<Euphrastus> You as well.
<Saiya> You should come by our house sometime and see some of the weird stuff my father has!
* Saiya issues an invitation casually
<Mitula> Yes. I woud say enjoy your evening, but I'm sure Trip has already informed you how it will go.
<Euphrastus> He has, but modesty forbids me from sharing. Well, that, and I would not want to risk the wrath of the Trinocular God.
* Saiya giggles again

Team Sluts meet the Harrowdens, and Euphrastus (rogue member of Team Sluts)

<Kitty_O> ...and here we are! I have been here a few tims now and its always so grand!
<Akiterryl> {looks at her surroundings} Oh its all so lovely
* Euphrastus is sipping a glass of wine, not even pretending that he can look inconspicuous
<Akiterryl> Should we go right in or take a tour of the gardens first?
<Kitty_O> we may as well mingle in here a bit I think?
<Kitty_O> meet some people and all
<Saiya> oh, Kitty! hello!!
<Kitty_O> there are gaming rooms, of course, though I believe out host has set a limit on the betting
<Akiterryl> I'd love to Kitty!
<Kitty_O> !!SAIYA!
* Saiya waves and hastens over to greet you, seeing a familiar face
<Kitty_O> Oh *perfect*!
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryl watches them greet each other]
* Kitty_O gives her as close to a hug as we can properly do ;)
* Mhireen will be with Saiya, and can be dragged along.
<Kitty_O> Saiay, dear, come meet my new friends :D
<Saiya> ooh, all right! I'd love to!
* Saiya has her brother trailing after her ;)
* Mhireen is a drow man with a silver crown, rabbit ears sprouting from atop it. A broken sword hangs at his hip, clearly marking him dressed as the Rabbit Prince card.
<Akiterryl> Akiterryl smiles and gives a short bow, "Good evening! Captain Akiterryl Eitstrand of Jormun, a pleasure to meet you!"
<Kitty_O> Saiya, this is Atreyvin Marceador, and Captain Lady Akiterryl Eitstand of Jormun
<Kitty_O> Trev. Akiterryl, this is Saia Harrowden
<Kitty_O> Oh!
<Kitty_O> and Mhireen Harrowden, I believe?
<Kitty_O> (ha ha sorry, I was name hunting :x)
<Mhireen> Well, if we're being that formal, *Captain
* Mhireen Harrowden, at your service.
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryol is dressed as The Publican with a teal brocade apron and a tankard made of pure silver, engraved with a tall ship in full sail, curling waves off its bow]
* Mhireen grins and gives a deeply formal, if somewhat sarcastic, bow.
<Kitty_O> oh no! I'm so sorry, I didn't know :(
<Kitty_O> Congratulations, though!
<Saiya> Oh he won't let ANYONE forget :D
<Mhireen> It's *very* new, so no offense taken, and many thanks.
<Akiterryl> Aiiterryl quirks a brow "Well if we're both Captains there's no need to stand on ceremony Mhireen!
<Kitty_O> we have two captains but of different elements :)
<Kitty_O> sea, and air :)
<Akiterryl> Oh! You're an air captain!
<Mhireen> Likewise, Akiterryl. You said Jormun, yes? Sea or sky?
<Mhireen> Ah, heh, yes.
<Saiya> Please pass the salt for Captain Harrowden, did Captain Harrowden pick up his boots from the cleaner's today, Captain Harrowden needs a haircut....
* Saiya teases her brother affectionately
<Akiterryl> Sea for me and apparently sky for you, together our fleets keep everyone safe, something to be quite proud of I think
<Mhireen> Well, we haven't sailed yet, so I need to get in the practice.
<Mhireen> I'm inclined to agree. We helped get some folks out of Caprili just a few months ago. Nasty business that.
<Kitty_O> oh?
<Akiterryl> Oh you haven't had your maiden voyage! What's the name of your ship? Mine's The True North, a fine vessel if I do say so myself
<Kitty_O> *do* tell!
<Trev> Everett, do come over here my good fellow, we should be in costume *properly* now that we're inside
<Akiterryl> Yes please tell us\!
<Kitty_O> Everyone's adventuress are so exciting :3
* Trev climbs up the handhold the large, round warforged provides, and seats himself on his valet's shoulders
<Mhireen> [To Akiterryl] The Sirocco, just [christened? Not sure the word for this world for that]. Something of an experiment, actually.
<Mhireen> The True North...You're with the Storm Fleet, right?
<Mhireen> (That's just the northern sea fleet, could be yes or no)
<Akiterryl> An experimental vessel? How thrilling! You must have really impressed the admirality! Yes I'm with the Storm Fleet
* Mhireen laughs.
<Mhireen> Family connections, that's all. And it's as likely to explode as work, though Uncle Cael is sure he's worked the kinks out.
* Kitty_O giggles
<Kitty_O> I'm sure!
<Akiterryl> Oh my! Well I certainly hope we don't have to fish chunks of your out of the briny deep
<Kitty_O> Now tnhat you are all rtalking though, I must excuse myself and go find my Fiance, and let him know I have arrived.
<Mhireen> Likewise, though I'm sure there's worse fates than you coming to my rescue.
* Saiya giggles
<Akiterryl> I'd love to meet your finace later Kitty!
<Akiterryl> Oh I'm sure Mhireen though a Captain never wants their vessel to come to harm
<Kitty_O> Oh course! I'm sure I'll see hyou later ^-^
* Kitty_O will slip off for now
<Mhireen> Not least in this isntance because I'm sure I'd be keel-hauled for scratching it.
<Mhireen> Well, we air sailors usually just go for tossing overboard, quite.
<Akiterryl> I take it the Sirocco is the pride of the air fleet then?
<Mhireen> Technically, it's not commissioned yet, though we're to be detailed to the southern forces helping out in Morro. Most supply and courier work while we're putting her through her paces.
<Akiterryl> Good honorable work
<Akiterryl> and an excellent way to shake out any bugs
<Mhireen> I could do with some, hopefully, quiet work for a while.
<Mhireen> The Sword Coast was certainly a learning experience.
<Akiterryl> Oh? I'm all ears if you'd care to talk about it
* Saiya is quietly squeeing to herself as her brother makes a New Friend (she ships it)
<Mhireen> Do you know why it's called the Sword Coast? They have these rock spires, hundreds of feet high, right out of the ocean. Plays havoc with navigation on air *or* sea.
<Mhireen> And that's not even mentioning the leviathans. Sea serpents, a hundred feet or more, and in Caprili they *fish* for the damn things.
<Mhireen> Wildest thing I've ever...well, one of the wildest things I've ever seen.
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryl hisses in sympathy} Oof! I can well imagine! It'd be like the Fangs of Despair, the current is so strong it takes a mightly fight to keep[ the ship from dashing itself on them!
* Euphrastus strolls by.
<Akiterryl> Sea Serpents? You've actually seen one?
* Mhireen nods.
<Euphrastus> Pardon me, did you say sea serpents?
* Mhireen nods again to Euphrastus.
<Akiterryl> she sees Euphastus and waves, "Hello!"
<Akiterryl> Mhireen has seen a sea serpant! An actual sea serpant?
<Euphrastus> I apologize for so rudely interrupting. Fascinating!
<Mhireen> We were at that. I was saying I was in Caprili not too long ago, got to see some far closer than I'd like.
<Mhireen> Not at all.
<Akiterryl> And you lived to tell the tale! Absolutely incredible!
<Mhireen> It's the damnedest thing. The Caprili, the trolls, they just swarm over them with ropes and harpoons, crazy, no fear.
<Mhireen> A single catch can feed so many. It's wild.
<Euphrastus> This question may seem odd, but ... how big are their individual scales? Do they even have scales?
<Akiterryl> I'll bet they'd make for a fearless and formidable crew!
<Akiterryl> Oh, I'll bet the scales are worth a pretty penny
<Mhireen> The ones I saw did. I think they use them for all manner of things. Shingles, I think ground into medicine...why do you ask?
<Euphrastus> Are they about the size of a fingernail? Or rather, are they much larger?
<Mhireen> The ones I saw were much larger, but I would imagine smaller specimens might have smaller scales?
<Euphrastus> It's fine, it is as I thought. I am an antiquary by trade, and some time ago, I had the opportunity to assess an item that was purported to be a necklace made of such scales. But they were much too small.
<Euphrastus> I am glad to have your confirmation of the matter.
* Mhireen shrugs.
<Mhireen> Like I said, I can't rule it out, but all I saw were the size of my hand or larger.
<Euphrastus> My apologies, how rude. I am Euphrastus Tinnane of the Graeae, great pleasure to make your acquaintances.
<Akiterryl> Antiques you say? I'm looking for a few antiques myself, particually pearls and a fine sword
<Mhireen> Mhireen Harrowden, my sister Miss Saiya Harrowden. A pleasure, as you say.
<Akiterryl> Oh hello! I'm Captain Akiterryl Eitstand of Jormun
* Euphrastus smiles.
<Euphrastus> Pleased to make your acquaintance. Swords, now not my area of greatest expertise, but there are many available.
<Euphrastus> Pearls are tricky, because they are so fragile - antiques, true antique pieces with original pearls, very hard to come by.
<Euphrastus> Though there are dozens who will say that they have them for sale.
<Akiterryl> [Akiterryl smiles] Oh splendid! I must pay a visit to your shop
<Mhireen> Counterfeits? Surely not among these illustrious nobles.
* Mhireen smirks.
<Akiterryl> of course, sadly there are always those out to make an illgotten profit
<Euphrastus> Sadly true. And it is my curse to be that unpopular fellow to deliver the bad news to the victims.
<Akiterryl> Sadly they love to shoot the messenger alas
<Mhireen> I'm betting that doesn't go over so well.
* Mhireen nods towards Akiterryl.
<Euphrastus> So, Captain ... you have your own ship, then?
<Akiterryl> I do, The True North! And so does Captain Mhireen!
<Mhireen> Sort of, as I was explaining. It sounds as though Captain Akiterryl does more properly.
<Euphrastus> Ah, very good. I am not much for sailing. My people, we hail from underground places, and the sea is so ... open.
<Euphrastus> But I have endless admiration for those who have mastered such a difficult skill.
<Akiterryl> I myself find the open sea exhilarating but I can see where it might feel a bit intimidating
* Mhireen nods.
<Mhireen> I love the horizon in the distance, but I imagine that vastness can be intimidating.
* Mhireen gives Euphrastus a look up and down and smirks.
<Mhireen> I suppose you know something about that.
* Saiya giggles
<Euphrastus> Intimidating? Or vastness?
<Euphrastus> Because in the first case, I hope not, though I fear so. And in the second case, well - that is for a lucky fellow to discover.
* Mhireen laughs at that.
<Mhireen> I suppose I shouldn't make a giant serpent joke in mixed company...
<Euphrastus> But if it has scales, you should have that checked out.
* Saiya gives a squeal of mildly horrified laughter
<Euphrastus> Oh, that is a good one, Miss Harrowden. Very vigorous!
<Euphrastus> And as for you, Captain Harrowden, it is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance. Your sister is, in fact, known to me.
<Euphrastus> My mother is Lady Tinnane, advisor to the Councilman.
<Mhireen> Ah, of course. I should have recognized; my apologies.
<Mhireen> And likewise, quite happy to have met you finally.
<Euphrastus> Not at all! I must look very different with the Three-Eyed God looking over my shoulder.
* Euphrastus smiles.

Mol and Firrin run into each other unexpectedly. Paiza briefly joins them later

* Firrin is dressed in red with piping that's reminiscent of fire but that clashes terribly with his rose-pink skin
<Firrin> (red and orange, say)
* Molgrin 's tail coat is white, I forgot to say ;)
* Firrin has patterns on his waistcoat and trousers reminiscent of scales, and is sgtanding by a buffet tab;e looking wistful at people's cothes
* Molgrin decides to check out the food and is just reaching over the table to take a puff pastry, directly across from you
<Molgrin> Oh, excuse me, sorry.........
<Firrin> oh!
<Firrin> I'm sorry I...
* Firrin looks up at you and freezes
<Firrin> Oh.
<Molgrin> ... Firrin? :o
<Firrin> Is it. really...? Mol?
<Molgrin> Yes! It's me! I didn't expect to see anyone I knew here.....
<Firrin> Oh I had... I mean... me either :x
<Molgrin> What are you, uh, doing here? If it isn't rude to ask.
<Firrin> oh. Um.. uh... well....
* Firrin seems quite thrown off
<Molgrin> oh this is so weird, just a second :p
<Firrin> what?
* Molgrin hurries around to the other side of the table so we can talk properly
<Firrin> oh, yes.
<Molgrin> just seeing you again! And I mean... all of this.
* Firrin looks around
* Molgrin waves a hand generally.
<Firrin> Yes, it *is
* a lot.
* Firrin agrees with more confidence
<Molgrin> it's so much @_@
<Firrin> I'm here, well, because of... family things...
<Firrin> why are you here?
<Molgrin> Oh, uh... kind of the same, sort of...? Um. It's complicated!
<Molgrin> Well I can explain it, it isn't really that complicated I suppose.
* Molgrin says after a second's consideration
<Molgrin> I manifested a dragonmark and then a nobleman showed up on my doorstep to see if I was his son. I wasn't, but he still offered to introduce me around and maybe we could figure out who I got it from - who my father was, I guess?
* Molgrin summarizes hastily
<Firrin> oh!
<Firrin> Well... mine's no so different... in some ways...
<Molgrin> oh?
<Firrin> Well you know what mother always said -_-
* Molgrin nods, thinking back on childhood conversations long ago
<Firrin> But I did manifest a mark, but the gentleman who... turned up.... decided to adopt me.
<Firrin> He and his *wife
* have no children of their own
<Molgrin> oh! Adopt you? But that's wonderful! ... isn't it?
<Firrin> so, um, I'm Mr. Malassar now.
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> It's a lot
<Firrin> My, ah, my father is very well connected
<Molgrin> I'm still just Mr. Braalk. Should I call you Mr. Malassar, to be, um, proper?
* Molgrin asks uncertainly
<Firrin> I suppose it depen on who's listening. probably you should but. ugh.
<Firrin> You look well though
<Molgrin> Oh, thank you! I feel incredibly awkward!
* Molgrin says with a nervous smile
* Firrin smiles, looking you over a bit
* Molgrin 's suit is presumably acceptably tailored but not spectacular
<Firrin> I like the Cricket, though
<Firrin> its's a good card!
<Molgrin> I do like insects.
<Molgrin> You look very nice too :)
<Firrin> Oh, that's kind of you to say...
* Firrin frowns slightly
<Molgrin> oh, did I say something wrong? I meant, your suit looks nice >.>
* Firrin has some ribbons or something wound through his horns to try and look a bit firey as well
* Galatea is now known as Paiza
<Firrin> No, I just mean.. orange and red is... well.
* Firrin just sort of gestures at himlself helplessly
<Molgrin> oh, the colours?
<Paiza> I think you look perfectly handsome. :)
* Firrin starts
<Firrin> oh!
* Paiza approaches from behind Firrin, smiling.
* Molgrin looks around to see who is talking to us :o
* Firrin turns around as well, hoping he doens't look too terrified, but definitely nervous
<Firrin> L...Lady Paiza.
* Firrin bows
<Molgrin> Good evening, Lady Paiza.
* Molgrin says, and bows, following your lead
<Firrin> My, Ah, mmm. this is Mr. Braalk
<Paiza> A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Braalk.
<Firrin> Mr. Braalk, this is my fiancee, lady paiza
* Paiza smiles and will try to thread her arm through Firrin's.
* Firrin says, tryign to sound less like he is abotu to collapse in a nervous sweaty heap
<Molgrin> ...oh.. oh, hello, that's so .... hello! um, nice to meet you too.
* Firrin will allow this but is clearly very stressed
* Molgrin makes eye contact with Firrin to be like "fiancee???"
<Firrin> You see we, ah, we match :)
* Firrin tries to ignore that :)
<Molgrin> oh yes, I see that now
<Paiza> A nice pair, I like to think.
<Firrin> :)
* Paiza is dressed in an ocean blue gown, magicked to move in waves as it swirls.
<Molgrin> Very ...yes, very nice.
* Molgrin is still a bit startled.
<Paiza> Are you a friend of my fiance's?
<Firrin> I'm afraid you put me to shame, My lady
<Firrin> that's quite an effect
* Saiya is now known as Euganva
<Firrin> and, ahh, yes, an old friend....
<Molgrin> Yes, we knew each other as youngsters
* Firrin nods
<Firrin> :)
<Firrin> I am... Lady paiza would you ah, would you care for any refreshments? A drink? I could fetch something...
<Paiza> Oh, dear, you're too kind. I can certainly get my own refreshments. I just saw you and thought I would offer a greeting.
* Molgrin looks at the refreshment table that we are standing beside and is puzzled
<Paiza> I can leave you boys to whatever you were discussing, I'm sure.
<Firrin> Oh! Would you care to dance? Ahh, now, or later, as you prefer, of course....
<Paiza> I've made sure to save a space for you, of course.
<Molgrin> Oh I don't want to interrupt, I mean if you were going to, of course, that's fine :D
<Firrin> Of course.
* Molgrin waves vaguely in the direction of the dancing
<Paiza> No, no, I'm the one imposing at the moment. There, I think I see Magus Palatine. If you'll both excuse me, it was a pleasure meeting you, Mr. Braalk. Any friend of Firrin's...
* Paiza will squeeze Firrin's arm, smile at Molgrin, and take her leave.
<Molgrin> A pleasure to meet you, Lady Paiza!
<Firrin> Oh yes, later then, of course...
<Firrin> :)
* Molgrin looks concerned at your rather anxious demeanour
<Molgrin> .... <w> are you okay, Firrin?
<Firrin> Oh yes :)
<Firrin> I'm fine :)
<Firrin> Though... perhaps... a drink?
* Molgrin looks Unconvinced
<Molgrin> Yes, of course
* Molgrin looks around for a place to get a drink
<Firrin> (probably not too far from here)
* Molgrin will go with you to a nearby table that has a punchbowl and get us each a glass
* Molgrin presses the drink into your hands
<Molgrin> here, have this
<Firrin> thank you
* Firrin knocks it back too quickly, and winces
* Molgrin sips his drink
* Firrin looks down at the emty cup, a bit dismayed, then sets it down on the table
<Molgrin> <w> what is going on, you seem like you saw a ghost
<Firrin> oh well. not yet -_-
<Firrin> I'm sorry, I *am* fine, really, just it *is* a lot
<Molgrin> not yet?
<Firrin> she's, ahh, she's from Thantopolis, from house Nykona....
* Molgrin looks quizzical
<Firrin> ah.
<Molgrin> And you're engaged to her?
<Firrin> yes.
<Firrin> My father arranged it
<Firrin> Her house is very prestigious.
<Molgrin> Did you... want that?
* Molgrin asks uncertainly
<Firrin> Well. Why wouldn't I.
<Firrin> :)
<Molgrin> well, I don't really know! It just seems like if you're engaged you should be happy about it.
<Firrin> Well. It's an arrangement, its' not a love match, it's...
<Molgrin> but even still :o
<Firrin> It's very good.
<Molgrin> well if you say so...
<Firrin> Im just overwhelmend, that's all.
* Firrin says, earnestly
* Molgrin nods
* Paiza is now known as Narrator
<Molgrin> do you want to go outside or anything?
<Firrin> It not... I never imagined this, you know?
<Firrin> oh... maybe....
<Firrin> some air would be good...
* Molgrin nods and will find us a way to go out into the garden, after a bit of peering around.

Raveni and Norn have a chance encounter in the garden. They are soon joined by Mitula, whi is also seeking refuge from the crowds inside

* Raveni is a tall, very lean shifter with light blond hair and is wearing wrapped neat white bandages around his chest, covered by a light purple-blue vest and wide-legged trousers clearly reminiscent of The Dance card. A silvery blue mask with slanting eye holes and small golden rings asymmetrically scattered around the edges sits on his face.
* Raveni he is sitting on a bench, looking tense
<Raveni> Oh! No, not at all, I just stepped out to get some air
* Raveni smiles awkwardly
<Norn> Oh, apologies. Norn Yosk, Cano Valicirca. (The last two are a title and a holding)
<Norn> You seem a bit out of sorts...
<Raveni> No apologies necessary. Raveni Pesha, Colmacil Mëoirista
<Norn> A pleasure to make your acquaintance Colmacil Mëoirista.
<Norn> Is everything all right?
<Raveni> [embarrassed] ah, yes, is it that obvious? I've not attended an event on quite this scale before
<Norn> If I'm being honest, neither have I, so you're in good company. Or company, at least.
<Norn> I suspect we had similar motives for touring the gardens.
* Raveni laughs quietly and visibly relaxes some
<Raveni> Well, that's a relief. I was worried that I would be the only one so new to the social scene
<Norn> "Every year a new crop." That's what my patron says.
<Raveni> Patron?
<Norn> Lord Callais. I've been studying under him for the last year, so I know how comforting the gardens can be.
<Norn> They're a nice place in which to lose oneself for a while.
<Raveni> (would I know who that is?)
<Norn> (It's the person throwing the party.)
<Norn> (Elven lord, on the city council of Highmark, where we are right now. Reasonably big muckity-muck. :P )
<Raveni> Oh! Our host for the evening, is he not? I imagine that you are familiar with these gardens already, then
* Norn nods, his blush luckily mostly covered by his mask.
<Norn> Would you...care for a tour? There are some fascinating specimens.
<Raveni> I would be delighted, if you’ve the time. Any excuse not to go back inside just yet. Do you have a favourite part?
<Norn> I do, actually. We've been working on a hybrid that can cleanse some of the demon-tainted soil around Nachtur.
* Norn sounds more confident than he has in the conversation so far, and offers his arm.
* Raveni blushes and takes his arm
<Raveni> Then I would love to see that, though I admit I’m not terribly familiar with horticulture
<Raveni> Then I would love to see that, though I admit I’m not terribly familiar with horticulture
<Norn> Please don't let me bore you with it, then. I'm told I can be a bit single-minded. House Pesha are courtiers in Aethrennar, yes? I'm surprised this is your first big event.
* Raveni wishes his mask extended further to better cover his blush
<Raveni> So I understand. I’m actually something of a newcomer to the family — my father was a scion of the house, but I didn’t find that out until very recently
<Norn> Ah. I apologize if I have offered any offense.
<Raveni> No offence taken at all. It is just an awkward topic to explain
<Norn> I have some experience with that. My condolences.
* Norn pauses for an awkward moment.
<Raveni> Oh? You need not explain if it is an uncomfortable topic
<Norn> Oh. Well, suffice to say for the time being that, while I am enjoying my patron's guidance and hospitality, I did not come here entirely by choice.
<Raveni> Forgive me if it’s not something you are allowed to speak of but… are you being held here against your will, somehow?
* Norn looks pained for a moment.
<Norn> No, nothing like that.
<Norn> I just...had to leave Vanilorra is all.
<Norn> Even there, not everyone is, hmm, as ready for our people to take our place in society as yet.
<Raveni> It sounds like that was another decision not entirely under your control. I’m sorry to hear that
<Raveni> (Would I know what he is alluding to there?)
<Norn> (Up to you. It's in the rumors page; some folks are saying he killed someone in a duel back in Vanilorra.)
<Raveni> (I’m going to say he doesn’t because he’s been so busy being trained into an acceptable noble)
<Norn> (kk)
<Norn> The experimental section is just up here.
* Norn gestures as you find yourselves in an area of the garden that doesn't seem to have attracted many visitors as yet, but has a calvalcade of unusual and interesting trees, shrubs, and flowers.
<Raveni> Wonderful! I’ve enjoyed what I’ve seen so far. Am I correct in assuming that plants are a particular passion of yours?
* Norn nods.
<Norn> There's so much about them we're still learning, and they're more...alive than I think people realize.
<Raveni> In what way?
* Mitula is floating through the garden, pausing to examine an interesting flower or leaf when she stumbles on the pair of men.
<Norn> Even the non-mobile ones, they respond and fight and...oh!
<Norn> Good evening, madam.
* Norn gives a formal bow.
<Mitula> Oh I didn't mean to startle anyone. I seem to have gotten separated from my guide, and was just facinated by the plants.
* Raveni follow’s Norn’s cue and bows as well
<Mitula> Gentlemen, your politenesss is appreciated, but there is no need to bow for me.
<Mitula> I am Mitula. A pleasure to meet both of you.
<Norn> Norn Yosk, Cano Valacirca. I was just show Colmacil Mëoirista some of the latest varietals.
<Raveni> My name is Raveni. It’s a pleasure to meet you as well
* Mitula is a Deva, standing 6’ 4” tall on a slim frame. Her skin has a soft pinkish purple hue, smooth and unblemished, with none of the coloured celestial markings that can be found on Devas, and her eyes are lavender.
<Mitula> If you are familar with these plants, I would be interested to hear about them. I recognize a few from sketches I've seen.
<Mitula> If I am not imposing or interupting.
<Norn> No, of course not. I was just talking about this one, here.
<Raveni> Cano Valacirca was just about to tell me about his current project, in fact. I certainly don’t mind if you would like to listen as long as he is comfortable
* Norn gestures to a relatively unassuming little plant, something like a potato plant.
<Norn> I know it doesn't look like much, but it can survive in demonically-tainted soil, even cleansing it after a few seasons.
<Mitula> Thank you. You are both so kind.
<Raveni> That is remarkable! How did you come to create them?
<Norn> Oh, well, I can't take all the credit.
* Norn blushes and looks down and away for a moment.
<Norn> They're a hybrid of a couple different species that Lord Callais has been breeding since Nachtur was reclaimed.
<Norn> We even think their roots may be able to be refined for residuum once harvested, though that's not really the goal.
<Mitula> Do you understand the mechanism in which the plant performs its cleansing?
* Mitula leans down, removing her glove to touch the leaves
<Norn> They're thaumaphages; they 'eat' the magic out of the soil. The dark resonance they can't process gets stored in the roots. It's *terribly
* toxic when mature, but still quite useful.
<Raveni> Do they eat other kinds of magic as well?
* Norn gives a self-effacing smile.
<Mitula> There is little dark resonance here for this one to process. I was curious if it was somehow transmuting the energy.
<Norn> That's why they're still in the experimental section. Right now, they're try to eat whatever magic they can get there, well, I guess leaves on.
* Raveni leans down and summons a small ball of light that hovers in the air just above the plants
<Mitula> Fine tuning living things is tricky work. Nature tends to be very resilient to forced changes.
* Paiza is now known as Narrator
* Mitula will pull back to let Raveni do thier own experiment, placing her glove back on.
<Narrator> The leaves of the plant will move visibly towards the ball of light.
<Raveni> Ironic, considering how nature sometimes forces changes itself
* Norn watches, a bit nervously.
<Mitula> Nature is backed by the will of the Gods. It has an advantage for changes it desires.
<Raveni> (do the plants do anything to the ball of light?)
<Narrator> As the ball of light gets closer to the plants, it will start to dim as barely perceptible rivulets of luminescence trail off into the leaves.
<Norn> Yes, see, that is something we would prefer they didn't do. :/
<Raveni> It is fascinating behaviour though
<Norn> There are others that *are
* being bred for that, though. There is potential for defensive use.
* Norn will be happy to show folks various plants and talk about them as long as he is allowed. :)
<Mitula> I wish you the best of luck Cano Valacirca in teaching a plant to be discriminating
* Raveni his claws briefly manifest in his excitement over the plants, barely visible in the light as he strokes a leaf on the nearest plant
* Norn smiles, though it's tinged with a bit of wonder whether Mitula is making fun.
* Euganva is now known as Saiya
* Narrator is now known as Mhireen
<Raveni> I'm sure he will be successful in the end. Agricultural advancements are made all the time, after all
<Raveni> There are just a bit more specialized than most
* Norn smiles in thanks at the kind words from Raveni.

Firrin and Mol join the group outside, but Firrin leaves as Fritz interrupts and insters himself into the groups of soon-to-be-friends

* Firrin follows Mol out into the gardens for somew air, which he defnitely needs after how quickly he drank that punch
<Norn> It would seem the gardens are beginning to draw their usual crowd.
* Norn offers a polite bow to Firrin and Molgrin.
* Molgrin bows politely as well
<Raveni> Ah, our plot to avoid the crowds is foiled at last
<Molgrin> Hello - I hope we aren't interrupting you
* Raveni smiles, making it clear that he is joking
* Raveni bows as well
<Molgrin> It's a bit much inside, we thought we would get some fresh air.
<Norn> Not at all, we were doing much the same.
<Norn> I'm afraid you have me at a loss, sirs. Norn Yosk, Cano Valacirca.
<Molgrin> I am Mr. Molgrin Braalk and this is my friend, Mr. Firrin Li... Malassar
* Molgrin corrects himself quickly
<Raveni> Raveni Pesha, Colmacil Mëoirista
<Raveni> Cano Valacirca was just showing us some of the plants that he has been working on. They're really quite remarkable
* Molgrin perks up at the prospect of botany
* Firrin smiles politely
<Firrin> nice to meet you both
<Molgrin> Plants, you say? I would be most interested to see them. I'm... I'm a bit of an artist, and botanical illustrations are sort of my specialty.
* Molgrin says shyly
<Molgrin> Well, that and insects.
<Molgrin> But for some reason the plant pictures sell better.
* Molgrin says, with an awkward chuckle
<Firrin> I'm sure they're very nice insects...
<Molgrin> I think they are!
<Norn> You do illustrations? That's fascinating.
<Norn> I confess I'm a terrible hand with pen or brush.
<Molgrin> well, if you ever need some illustrations of the plants you're developing, please let me know :)
<Molgrin> I don't really know... if you would... but perhaps if you wanted to ...... document their properties?
* Molgrin says, increasingly nervous as he goes on
<Molgrin> That was probably very forward of me, sorry. I get excited about plants.
<Raveni> [shyly] I'm interested in seeing some of your artwork, if ever you would like to show it off. I've recently been finding some solace in artistry myself and I've gained a new appreciation for fine work
<Firrin> Oh, are you an artist as well?
<Raveni> Yes, although I'm very much an amateur
<Firrin> well one must start somewhere
* Molgrin nods enthusiastically
<Norn> May we inquire as to your medium?
<Raveni> (is it obvious who that question is addressed to?)
<Norn> (Oh, sorry, to Raveni)
* Raveni looks nervous at being the centre of attention
<Raveni> Primarily whittling, although I've also been learning to sketch at the same time in order to plan my carvings out more accurately
* Firrin is looking relieved at not having any attention :x
<Molgrin> oh, that's very interesting!
<Molgrin> do you have a kind of wood you prefer?
<Raveni> anything that I can get my hands on, really
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> well if I find any fallen branches or the like, would you like me to retrieve them for you?
<Molgrin> I mean while I'm out looking for interesting specimens
<Norn> Where do you usually look, if I may?
<Raveni> oh! That's very kind of you. I've discovered that I like working with wood that has natural markings or blemishes and incorporating them into the design, so if you happen across anything interesting I would be very grateful to receive it
<Molgrin> oh, well, these days, I frequent Parliament Park, on occasion. Or just... people
<Molgrin> people's gardens, if they'll let me
<Fritz> people have bugs on them? :o
<Fritz> ... Oh I'm sorry I didn't mean to intrude :x
<Molgrin> no I mean :o in their property -_-
* Firrin smiles at Mol
<Firrin> Um, i'll catch you later, it was good to meet you all, but I should go back in. thank you!
* Firrin smiles politely and will flee while ppl are distrated with the human :x
<Raveni> Pleasure to meet you, Firrin!
* Molgrin nods, looking distracted as Firrin slips away, but not quite sure how to extricate himself from this conversation
* Fritz had been sitting on a bench a lottle ways away and *trying
* not to be intrusive BUT :x
<Fritz> Oh, yes, that makes more sense..
* Fritz says, looking after the tiefling but then smiling at the group
<Norn> Were you drawn out for the fresh air as well, sir?
<Fritz> I feel so impolite but you were just all talking about the most interesting things and people inside were *not
* -_-
<Norn> 'The more the merrier' is the expression, no?
<Fritz> and a bit, yes!
<Fritz> Honestly I was admiting the greenhouse, it really is so clever!
<Molgrin> I could spent at least a month here painting... the flora and fauna are remarkable.
<Fritz> Oh aren't they lovely!
<Norn> [to Fritz] It's truly amazing. The largest in the Confederacy.
<Fritz> its all so inspiring, honestly!
<Molgrin> is it really? :o how do they know?
* Molgrin asks Norn
<Norn> Are you also an artist? We seem to have made a bit of an impromptu salon.
<Fritz> anyway, I'm Sorry, I'm, well, i'm Lord frederick, but really everyone interesting just calls me Fritz
<Fritz> And yes! Well, No, sort of, I'm studying architecture :3
<Fritz> My mother is a *real
* artist though
<Fritz> well, one of them, but she didn't come this season, so my other mother is here instead :)
<Norn> Norn. Yosk. I suppose I should say Cano Valacirca as well.
<Raveni> Raveni Pesha, welcome to our impromptu garden party
<Molgrin> Molgrin Braalk.
<Fritz> oh thank you all, you're so kind!
* Molgrin introduces himself
* Fritz gives a polite bow
* Molgrin bows as well (he basically has just figured out to bow if someone else bows at him)
* Norn gives a painfully precise bow.
<Fritz> well we ddon't really need to be so formal though sdo we?
* Norn looks momentarily uncomfortable, then lets out a big sigh.
<Norn> Gods, please, not if you're all alright with it.
<Fritz> Oh no! I'd *much
* rather talk abotu plants and art!
* Raveni bows as well with a playful smile
<Fritz> And insects, even :)
<Molgrin> Oh, wonderful, yes. I only learned all of these things a few months ago and it's awful, how does anyone remember all of it?
* Molgrin says with considerable relief
* Raveni gives Molgrin an empathetic smile
<Molgrin> I mean. not about insects. I knew about those. I mean about titles and proper forms of address and bowing.
<Fritz> well habit I suppose, and lots of Mothering, I suppose, at least in my case
<Fritz> though tis still liek, these are the Home Rules and the Formal Rules and who can keep track of all of that, really, its such a bother!
<Norn> Likewise. My father's generation, I think it will always be new to him, but my mother took to it like a natural, I'm told.
<Raveni> I'm in the same boat. Amazing how much one can learn in such a short time, isn't it? That's actually why I took up whittling, I needed an outlet for all of my pent-up energy
<Norn> That said, it *is
* changing. I wouldn't have been here even ten years ago.
<Raveni> Sitting in one spot repeating etiquette rules was not my idea of a good time
<Raveni> [to Norn] Oh? How so?
<Fritz> oof, no how tedious!
<Norn> Yes, that sounds awful.
<Norn> And I just meant us as shifters, here in Highmark high society...we're all still adjusting.
<Norn> I'm sure it'll be perfectly natural to my little sister, though.
<Raveni> Ah. My experience as a shifter in high society is a very new one, personally. I grew up somewhere a bit out of the way, personally. I don't think I even saw a single member of the nobility at a distance until I was half grown
<Fritz> oh how interesting!
<Fritz> Anyway, I think its nice to see so many different peoples
* Norn nods.
<Raveni> I agree
<Molgrin> I only sort of... found myself in these circles... a few months ago. It wasn't something I expected at all, growing up. It still seems very overwhelming to me.
<Raveni> It seems like you and I had somewhat similar upbringings
<Fritz> Oh well, I *did
* grow up with it, and I still fins parts of it overwhelmong, if we are being honest!
<Fritz> I don't think I've seen so many people at a single event, even at school :o
<Molgrin> Are all the parties of the season this big?
<Fritz> but if you need help with anythig, please do call on me if I can be of any help
<Norn> This tends to be the largest, I'm told, though some rival it.
<Fritz> and I think this is the biggest?
<Fritz> yes
* Molgrin looks a little relieved at that
<Norn> I wouldn't really know, but that's what I have heard.
<Fritz> this is the one that "everyone" is supposed to be seen at
<Raveni> Really? I would have thought you would have been to parties like this before, though perhaps my impression of what growing up in this environment is flawed
<Norn> After this, guest lists get more exclusive.
* Raveni looks anxious at hearing this
<Fritz> hah, well, no, this is my first season!
<Fritz> and don't worry, there should be so many things to do
<Fritz> there's a whole series of salons I'm very excited about!
* Norn nods.
<Norn> Oh?
<Fritz> Maybe we coudl all go together, woudln't that be fun?
<Molgrin> Salons could be interesting... and it wouldn't be so scary if I knew some people there already :)
<Raveni> oh? How does one go about gaining an invitation to more exclusive events? I mean, I'd rather not if it were all up to me but I'm afraid I'm under some familial pressure to socialize
<Norn> It would be nice to know people, particularly with similar interests.
* Raveni realizes what he said sounded dickish
<Raveni> I don't mean you all, of course!
<Norn> It's alright. I'm familiar with that pressure.
<Fritz> no, I think we're all under *some* pressure, I don't think I would have done it if I didn't have to either
* Norn nods.
* Molgrin nods
<Fritz> and hmm, I know there are a couple of art talks in the next month or so
<Norn> Well then, another thing we have in common
<Raveni> What say we give it up as a bad job and go become farmers in a little corner of nowhere?
<Fritz> and then some more hmm. academic ones, I don't know if those would be of interest, but my mother and my cousin will surely want to go
<Molgrin> oh... I think I need to stay here in Highmark, but I understand the temptation to run away.
<Raveni> ...alright, I have to admit some of those do sound interesting
* Norn laughs at Raveni's comment.
* Molgrin says earnestly
<Fritz> and theres some literary ones as well I think?
<Fritz> I'm sure I can get invitations, if we want to check any out?
<Norn> You're very kind.
<Molgrin> That would be very generous of you.
<Fritz> oh! Plus I can invite you to dinner or something maybe, they we all look like we're doing a good job of meeting new people :3
<Raveni> Are there any that are focused on animals, by any chance? I do love plants and art as well but I've always been drawn to animals
<Fritz> but hmm, probably we should find some girls to round out the numbers
<Fritz> oh there might be!
<Fritz> there is a lovely zoo in the city as well, I used to go with my famiy when we were in town
<Molgrin> oh, I could bring my friend, Nezva, she's a girl
* Molgrin says helpfully
<Fritz> perfect :)
<Fritz> and there will be Galatea, probably
<Raveni> [in a wry tone] so long as no one attempts to add me to the menagerie, I would be interested in visiting the zoo
<Norn> I have been wanting to see the zoo. I've heard it's quite extensive.
<Fritz> I'll ask my mother she can sort it out I think, or maybe Galateea will have some new friends too :)
<Molgrin> and my friend Firrin has a fiancée, so .....well. maybe.
* Molgrin seems a bit less confident of that one
<Raveni> Galatea is a friend of yours, Fritz?
<Fritz> Oh, do you know her?
<Fritz> She's my cousin :D
<Fritz> well, by marriage, but even so
<Raveni> Not personally, I was just curious about who you were talking about
<Fritz> oh! I'm so silly sometimes!
<Raveni> I'm afraid I'm very out of touch with most of the people at these events
<Fritz> well there's really just too many people.
<Fritz> She's my mother's niece, and so she's my cousin.
<Fritz> she's techncially the other half of my costume too... you'll have to figure out which one is the *evil* twin though >:D
<Raveni> Well, if she's anything like you then I'm sure we'd all get along well with her
* Mhireen is now known as Galatea
<Fritz> she's lovely, I think she would like you all very much :) She's an artificer, so I think that fits well as an extension of this little group :3
<Raveni> [mock seriously] One of you is *evil?* I shall have to keep notes
<Fritz> well. maybe!
<Raveni> Maybe Norn and I will figure it out together and the bad one can be fed to his plants
* Fritz says, matching his tone
<Fritz> I Do have an evil uncle, so you know it could run in the family >:D
* Raveni is tapping his chin with one finger, looking thoughtful
<Norn> [also mock seriously] They *do* have a particular taste for dark energy...
<Molgrin> you do? :o
* Molgrin says to Fritz
<Norn> I'm sorry, what?
<Raveni> Maybe we can feed that one to the plants first, as a test subject
<Fritz> Oh, haha, I think he's all locked up somewhere now
<Raveni> wait, you mean seriously? Goodness
<Fritz> oh it was all a big scandal a few years ago, but, really, I shouldn't have brought it up -_-
<Norn> Well, I think you may have picked exactly the right group in which to do so.
<Fritz> I just got a little carried away - I promise I'm *not* evil, though!
<Norn> None of us know enough about society to judge. :)
<Raveni> [trying to comfort Fritz] If it makes you feel any better, you aren't the only one with scandalous relations
<Fritz> Oh he was really very ghastly even before we knew he was evil, I'm glad I didn't have to grow up with him
<Molgrin> That's true. And who doesn't have some weird uncle or cousin or someone in their family, after all?
<Fritz> oh right, ha ha, yes
<Raveni> I suspect that *I* am the weird one in my family. My grandfather is very strictly correct at all times
<Fritz> well, we don't have to drag up everyone else's weird couisns or nefarious relations, really
* Norn remains stoic at that phrasing, but nods along.
<Raveni> I'm definitely not evil
<Fritz> I shouldn't think so!
<Norn> I would hope I am not.
<Fritz> I think everyone here is quite pleasant, and I *am* glad I intruded :)
<Molgrin> I'm glad you did too - especially since you seem to have more of an idea what's going on here than anyone else I've met so far, which is very helpful!
<Raveni> I am as well. Here I was worried that everyone would be like my family in society, when really you've all been very pleasant company
<Fritz> oh well, I'm happy to be of use, although really it *is* my first time at anythig like this too
<Molgrin> but you know about how to get invited to salons and things!
<Norn> We can all learn as we go, and help each other as needed.
<Fritz> Yes, quite!
<Molgrin> Should we....exchange information? I suppose if we want to communicate with one another, it would help to know where to address a communiqué. I live at the Ailendar household.
<Fritz> oh really?
<Fritz> well, here, you can have my card :)
* Fritz has had some made
* Molgrin is impressed that you have a card
<Fritz> I'm staying at my brother's place
* Raveni internally freaking out that they were apparently supposed to have cards to hand out
<Fritz> ut he's off on some diplomatic posting and isn't using it at all
<Raveni> Your brother?
<Norn> I shall be sure to call upon you.
<Fritz> Oh I hope you all will!
<Raveni> (would my residence be the Mëoirista holding or something else?)
<Fritz> (probably not, that's likely out in the middle of nowhere somewhere, but you could be staying at a family home in town or a rented place for the season, which is common and maybe more likely)
<Fritz> you can come look for as many bugs or sticks as you like, though I admit ther'e *not* much for garden's as its right against the cliff face
<Raveni> (so something like an official in-town Pesha residence?)
<Fritz> (yeah)
<Molgrin> Well, there can be interesting specimens among rocks as well, so that would be delightful :)
<Fritz> anyway my brother is the marquess Stillmarch, but he said we are to make the place our home for the season, and it all recently renovated so its quite comfortable and modern!
<Raveni> We could all arrange to call on each other at the same time, perhaps? It would be nice to have a chance to speak when we're all not having to avoid a crowd at the same time
<Molgrin> You have a whole house to yourself? :o
<Fritz> well, no there's my mother and Galatea.
<Fritz> And the servants, of course.
<Molgrin> oh, yes, of course
<Molgrin> We could go to Fritz's house then! I mean.. uh. not to invite myself over. But it sounds like you might have the most suitable accomodations if we wished to meet in more comfortable surroundings?
<Fritz> yes, absolutely!
<Fritz> please do it will be so nice to have some friends in the city!
<Norn> You're very gracious.
<Raveni> I'm staying at the Pesha estate for the season, should anyone want to call upon me there
<Norn> I'm, well, staying here at the Arbor.
* Norn says self-consciously.
<Molgrin> oh you are? Wow :o
<Raveni> Thankfully easy to remember!
<Fritz> oh really? Oh how fabulous!
<Molgrin> Can you get me an invitation to come back and just look at the gardens when it's not full of people?
<Norn> I'm apprentice to Lord Callais. The younger one.
<Fritz> oh my, that's so impressive!
<Norn> Oh, yes, of course. He'd be happy I was making connections, I think.
<Raveni> Molgrin, would you like to see something interesting right now?
<Fritz> I'm hoping to find some kind of apprenticeship myself, that's my goal for the season!
<Molgrin> Certainly!
* Raveni casts his light orb spell again over the plants that we are still standing nearby
<Fritz> oooh!
* Molgrin looks suitably impressed
<Fritz> my family, on my father's side anyway, has *no* talent for magic whatsoever, excepting the dragonmarks, of course
<Norn> What sort of apprenticeship are you looking for?
<Raveni> Isn't it fascinating! Cano Valicirca -- Norn -- has been working on these. He was showing them to Mitula and I just before you arrived
<Fritz> well architectural ideally, but something in the field
* Raveni has only just noticed that Mitula left some time ago
<Molgrin> That's amazing :o
<Fritz> oh the plants! yes if you are Lord Callais apprentice I suppose that makes sense :3
<Norn> I mean, I've been *helping* with them, they're not my project *specifically*...
* Norn wilts a little under attention.
<Fritz> well that's what an apprenticeship is isn't it?
<Fritz> you *have* been workign on them, so there we have it!
* Norn nods.
<Raveni> It's valuable work. You should take pride in contributing to it in any capacity, I should think
* Norn blushes.
* Raveni hasn't really stopped blushing at all since he first bumped into Norn earlier
<Fritz> My mother does some of her best work with flowers, I think
<Raveni> Oh? Does she keep a garden as well?
<Fritz> Oh she does and its lovely! But she does, hmm, landscape installations?
<Fritz> and Murals
<Fritz> and well, she kind of combines them, really
<Fritz> and other forms of art too
<Fritz> it is a shame she didn't come, she loves to meet and encourage new artists!
<Molgrin> Where does she live?
<Raveni> That sounds beautiful. Are there any at your brother's residence that we might be able to see when we call on you?
<Fritz> Oh mostly on her estate in Burbank but we have a house in Mythragal and we *used* to have a house in Highmark as well when I was younger, but it was mostly for convenience when my brothers were visiting, so she sold it a few years ago after Monty got married, which is why we're staying at his place
<Molgrin> wow :o
<Fritz> and No because he moved to Akhas so soon after it became his so there hasn't really been much point, but there is some other art of hers there
<Molgrin> well, I would love to see it when we come to visit :)
<Fritz> absolutely!
* Raveni is fighting off a purr at having made new friends
<Fritz> he has some really interesting pieces, I think! I'll be happy to give you a tour!
* Norn smiles.
<Raveni> I would love that
<Molgrin> Well... should we.... venture back inside?
* Molgrin says with a bit of trepidation
<Molgrin> I feel like maybe I have recovered enough to try and go back, as long as no one asks me to dance.
<Fritz> Oh, i *suppose* so.... just we can take some strength at the buffet before anythign else ^-^
* Molgrin nods
<Fritz> it was so nice to meet you all :D
<Norn> Likewise.
<Norn> Let us all fortify ourselves and rejoin the fray, eh?
<Fritz> yes, an excellent plan! :)
* Raveni sighs resignedly
<Raveni> I suppose we must
<Raveni> (resuming more formal tones) Cano Valacirca, would you do us the honour of leading us back into the ballroom? I'm afraid I was not keeping track of our walk through the various gardens earlier
<Norn> I should be happy to.

Euganva checks in on her son

* Euganva casts her eye over the room and easily takes notice of her very tall son and will drift over in his direction.
* Euganva wears an ornate blue gown with a scale pattern shimmering over its skirt, and long nail covers to give the effect of talons.
<Euganva> My dear Euphrastus, are you enjoying yourself?
<Euphrastus> Oh hello, Mother. Yes, Trip and I are having a lovely time. I appear to have attracted some attention.
<Euganva> Hm, what sort of attention? :|
<Euphrastus> Ahh, probably a mix of the right and wrong kinds. The trick is figuring out which is which.
<Euganva> It's less of a trick and more good judgment and maturity.
<Euphrastus> Of course. It is interesting, this custom of the season, though. I think I like it. Maybe I'll stick around for three or four.
* Euphrastus smiles wryly.
<Euphrastus> Of course, you never know, some tiny human boy may come and sweep me off my feet tonight.
<Euganva> Mm, perhaps.
* Euganva says dubiously.
<Euganva> Is that what you're looking for?
* Euganva sniffs a bit judgmentally
<Euphrastus> Frankly, I'm not sure that 'one-eyed, effete, giant' are traits on too many families' checklists. So we'll see.
<Euphrastus> I'm here to have a good time, perhaps even find a little business. People do tend to pull out the old heirlooms for these sorts of things.
<Euganva> Your lineage and connections would be an asset to any potential partner. If you would simply put some effort in.
<Euphrastus> Mother. I have bedecked myself in puppetry and fine silver. Effort is not my problem.
* Euphrastus smiles.
* Euganva sighs a little
<Euphrastus> I can be intimidating, I am told.
<Euganva> Well, a different *kind* of effort, perhaps.
<Euganva> You do look very striking tonight, I admit.
* Euganva goes to pat you on the shoulder, but can't because of the puppet.
<Euphrastus> Thank you. My other option was to go with the Unicorn, but that design was a little bit too ... horny.
<Euganva> Hm, yes, I see what you mean. Doorframes might have suffered.
<Euphrastus> Oh it wasn't on my head.
<Euganva> -_-
<Euphrastus> In any case, the Theater, with its invocation of prophecy, is more suitable for our House, I am sure you will agree.
<Euganva> Yes, very appropriate.
<Euganva> I suppose I shall withdraw so as to cease impeding your... efforts.
<Euphrastus> I'll let you know how it goes.
<Euganva> Hardly necessary, as you know.
* Euganva says with a smile, and will move off to converse with other guests.

Galatea meets Euphrastus. He shows her his puppet, she shows him her prosthetics

<Galatea> (Where's a good place to stumble upon Euprastus? (as much as one can stumble upon someone over 7 foot))
<Euphrastus> (I think generally mingling in common areas, being seen. He definitely likes being seen.)
* Galatea will try to surreptitiously get as close a look at Trip as she can, hovering (figuratively, not literally :P ) near Euphrastus.
* Galatea is not stealthy.
<Euphrastus> Admiring the Seer Within?
<Galatea> Ah!
<Galatea> I mean, yes. Sorry. It's just such good craftsmanship.
<Euphrastus> Thank you! Well, I should thank the crafter. The only thing I brought to the table was his eye.
<Galatea> Oh? How so? Is it significant somehow?
<Euphrastus> The stone is not precious, just crystal glass.
<Euphrastus> It has a history, though.
<Galatea> Oh?
<Euphrastus> Three hundred years ago, it was part of a life-sized sculpture of a lesser lord of House Factore.
<Euphrastus> It was shattered when his servants rose up against him, and eventually, some of the fragments fell into the hands of jewelers who could make something of it.
<Euphrastus> Ironic, really.
<Galatea> That's fascinating.
<Galatea> And perhaps a little sad, but I'm sure he had it coming.
<Galatea> There are other extant pieces?
<Euphrastus> There are supposed to be. But of course, to the undiscerning or untrained, crystal glass is hardly special or precious.
<Euphrastus> It is not, as I say, intrinsically valuable.
<Galatea> Perhaps not intrinsically, but depending upon the glass and the person...
* Galatea will hold up her hand; it is a prosthetic with a porcelain veneer, the 'nails' are cut and polished glass.
<Euphrastus> Oh, how lovely.
* Galatea smiles.
<Galatea> Thank you.
<Euphrastus> My apologies, allow me to introduce myself. Euphrastus Tinnane, of House Graeae.
* Galatea says genuinely.
<Galatea> Galatea Klytotekhnes, of House Hestion.
<Galatea> A pleasure to make your acquaintance, sir, and apologies for not introducing myself properly before.
<Euphrastus> Not at all.
<Euphrastus> And, I suppose I am supposed to say, that this is Trip, the embodiment of Theater and Puppetry's oracular eye.
<Euphrastus> Since you were so interested in him.
<Galatea> A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well, Trip.
* Galatea says to the puppet with full sincerity.
<Galatea> May I ask, Mr. Tinnane, how you came into possession of the glass eye? It seems such a singular piece.
<Euphrastus> I found it in a shop in Blackpool. The shopkeeper, really more of a tinker and collector, had it for sale very modestly. But she did not know its history.
<Galatea> But you were able to recognize it without the larger context?
<Galatea> That's very impressive.
<Euphrastus> It is my gift, and sometimes my curse.
<Euphrastus> Objects carry with them their stories, you see.
* Galatea nods.
<Galatea> You mean it's your dragonmark?
<Euphrastus> Indeed. House Graeae has served as oracles to those more powerful and wealthy than us for many years. In Mag Tureah, and now, my family, here.
* Galatea frowns sympathetically.
<Galatea> I hope Highmark has proven more hospitable.
<Euphrastus> I am exceedingly fortunate in my life.
<Galatea> I'm glad to hear it.
* Euphrastus is trying pretty hard not to check out Galatea's various prosthetics.
<Euphrastus> Is this your first social season? It is, for me.
* Galatea nods.
<Euphrastus> Even though I have spent some time at the Arbor over the years, it is ... very different, being here at the masquerade.
<Galatea> I confess I was quite nervous, but it's been very lovely.
<Galatea> Is it so different when there's not a ball?
<Euphrastus> I would say so, yes.
<Euphrastus> I will say that the one thing I was most concerned about has not happened, which is that despite my, ahhh, prominence, I have not been gawked at nearly as much as I expected.
<Euphrastus> I suppose that is because everyone is overawed and nervous.
<Galatea> I, ah, had some fear of that myself.
* Galatea looks aside for a moment.
<Galatea> Though I suppose I'm not quite so, well, prominent, as you said.
<Euphrastus> Your own jewels are fascinating, I concede.
* Galatea fidgets with her hand, the fingers of which orbit the palm in a nervous gesture.
<Galatea> That's very kind of you to say.
<Galatea> Oh, did you mean...?
* Galatea holds up her hand.
<Galatea> I made them myself.
<Euphrastus> Really? That is remarkable.
<Euphrastus> Of course, House Hestion's skill in such matters is beyond doubt. But for someone so young to have such intricate skill - that is a rare jewel indeed.
* Galatea blushes.
<Galatea> Well, it has a personal attachment to me.
<Galatea> Oh, huh, that wasn't *meant
* to be a joke, but...
* Galatea chuckles self-consciously.
* Euphrastus laughs.
<Euphrastus> Magical, I presume.
* Galatea nods.
<Galatea> I've experimented with more mechanical versions, but clockwork is finicky and can be more tempermental with my own dragonmark.
<Euphrastus> I can only imagine it would be more susceptible to changes in weather, as well.
<Galatea> I had a whole hand rust up on me after testing a waterproofing.
* Euphrastus grimaces.
<Euphrastus> How frustrating.
* Galatea shrugs.
<Galatea> Every trial is progress.
<Galatea> I suppose I shouldn't take up too much of your time, Mr. Tinnane, though I should like to hear more of your pieces' stories sometime.
<Euphrastus> I am thrilled to have someone who takes an interest in them.
* Galatea smiles.

Mol check up on Fritz, and thw two win up dancing

* Molgrin keeps his eyes open for Firrin once he's back inside, not like... *actively* seeking for him, really, but just... casually... looking around in case he spots him
* Firrin is trying to mingle and be a good social... person... fiance...guy
* Molgrin sidles over to where you're mingling and tries to make Eye Contact with you
* Molgrin is not great at being subtle
* Firrin excuses himself after a polite dance with some lady
<Molgrin> sorry - I didn't know how to get out of that. they were really nice, though, so I'm not upset about it, but I felt bad!
<Firrin> what?
<Molgrin> I mean in the garden.
<Firrin> oh!
<Firrin> Oh, no, there's nothign to apologize for.
<Molgrin> I just thought maybe you were uncomfortable...? or something?
<Firrin> No, I'm glad they were really nice!
<Molgrin> I think I can get invited to some salons and things. And to one of their houses.
<Firrin> I just didn't have anythign to say, you know, I'm not an artist and I don't study anything interesting...
<Firrin> oh, that's great!
<Firrin> I think, I'm going to be expected to attend more of these things *with* Lady Paiza, not wthat things have been formally announced
<Molgrin> I hope so. I mean... they're still all really rich and noble, even if they're nice nobles, and it's a bit intimidating.
<Molgrin> oh, formally announced?
<Molgrin> like... your engagement?
* Firrin nods
<Firrin> yes.
<Molgrin> well, do you want to come to some of these salons and things? at least if I'm there, you'd have someone to talk to.
<Firrin> oh!
<Molgrin> I don't know what I'm doing either, I promise.
<Firrin> well I... I would liek that, I think.
* Molgrin says with a nervous smile
<Molgrin> Ok, good!
* Firrin smiles back, also nervously, but maybe a differnt kind of nervous from before
<Firrin> It really is nice to see you
<Firrin> Is your mother... well?
<Molgrin> You too. I don't really know anyone else and it's a relief to have someone I can be myself around.
<Molgrin> Yes, she's good! She got married and they have kids, so I have four younger brothers and sisters.
<Firrin> oh that's so nice!
* Molgrin nods, smiling
<Firrin> I'm glad she'd happy
<Molgrin> What about your mother?
<Firrin> Oh she's been very happy about all this, you know, in her way
* Molgrin nods, maybe wincing a little bit, but nodding
<Firrin> Her health hasn't been very good, so it is somethign of a relief to have the resources to care for her.
<Molgrin> That's good. I kind of feel like... if I do things right here, I can help out the rest of my family. You know? Like if I make some good connections or whatever.
* Molgrin says vaguely
<Firrin> yes, *exactly*
<Firrin> you do understand
* Molgrin nods
<Firrin> I knew you would
* Firrin sounds a little relieved
<Firrin> This is, well, it's better.
<Molgrin> I would really like to catch up with you more, in a better environment for talking. Can we... meet for coffee or something? I don't know what people do here. Dinner? Tea?
<Firrin> oh probably they go to their fancy exclusive clubs >.>
<Firrin> but coffee sound good. I could do that.
<Molgrin> You could come to the Aelindar house, I am sure they wouldn't mind if I had a friend visit.
<Molgrin> They've been very generous, considering I don't actually have any ties to them
<Firrin> oh, maybe, yes!
<Molgrin> Or we could go somewhere out, whatever you prefer
<Firrin> We could talk there?
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> We could talk in private there.
<Firrin> I'm sure m..My father woudl allow me to visit the Aeildars
* Molgrin frowns a little at that, but nods again
* Euphrastus (~Forthrigh@d24-57-67-2.home.cgocable.net) Quit
<Molgrin> Then I'll .... I don't know. issue an invitation. Did you know they have cards just to tell people where they live?
<Molgrin> I didn't get the message about having cards. But you can find me :)
<Firrin> Oh, yes, some of them...
<Firrin> but I will :)
<Molgrin> And... um. You were saying, before, you didn't like the colours (*gesturing to your suit*) but... I think it looks beautiful. Pink and red and orange together are like a sunset.
* Firrin smiles more sincerely
* Molgrin says hastily
<Firrin> oh :x
<Molgrin> It's nice :)
<Firrin> well... thank you for saying so.
<Molgrin> Anyway, um, I'll let you get back to dancing and all that...
<Firrin> oh, you shoud try it, it can be nice if it isn't too serious
<Molgrin> oh, I don't know - with so many people watching, I'd mess it up I'm sure
* Molgrin smiles warmly, in that way he has of putting people at ease
* Firrin smiles back
<Firrin> lots of people are messing it up
* Molgrin chuckles at that
<Molgrin> but those people know they're supposed to be here, so it's all right for them
<Firrin> well. we;re supposed to be here too.
<Molgrin> I suppose
<Molgrin> if someone asks me, I guess I'll consider it, but I don't think I would be able to just someone to dance.
<Molgrin> (just ask someone, that should be)
<Firrin> oh I'm sure someone will!
<Firrin> did you want to?
<Molgrin> oh - with you? well... that would be all right, yeah :) I mean, if you were asking?
<Firrin> Oh, um, I.... I mean, we could, adn, andthen you;ll see its not so bad, right?
* Molgrin nods
<Molgrin> I'd like that :)
<Firrin> well... okay!
* Molgrin takes your hand to go try this experiment in fancy dancing ;)

Rumor and Scandal

(include only every second chapter)