AWRR Chapter 7

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Summary

Session date: 2023-05-14

In Game date: Founder's Day!

Lavinia brings Gueiris to meet her mother, who approves the engagement. They next move to face the next hurdle: Gueiris's aunt Alexeria. Fortunatey she also gives her blessing to the union.

Leonora meets with Zanne Machel to discuss the letter and plan a trap for Thurston

Lamont invites Nik and Coifárë to join him for lunch at his new apartment in advance of the Foudner's Day celebrations, and the three discuss various personal and politcal matters.

Sébastien opens the celebrations with a speech, the joins his sister until the run into Chitara. He then takes her around the park. Meanwhile, Rosalie meets up with Juno, and the two decide to start formally courting. Nik, Lamont, and Coifárë run into Kitty and Lavinia while waiting in line to get their faces painted. Sébastien ends the night with a bang, proposing to Chitara just as the fireworks begin.

Session

Lavinia and Gueiris Face Lavinia's Mother

Lavinia: will arrange for Gueiris to visit her family's home in the late morning and will have tea ready when he arrives to see her and her mother.

Gueiris: arrives dressed in fine black pants, a pressed collared white shirt, and navy vest with silver buttons.

Leonora: (how much have you told your mom about the purpose of the meeting?)

Lavinia: will greet you in a bright, pale cream dress with long sleeves and gloves. Her arm is no longer in a sling, and the cutson her face are almost all healed, though a few of them look like they may leave small scars.

Gueiris: smiles seeing her

Lavinia: (Probablynot a whole lot? Just that Gueiris is coming by to discuss our plans for the future.)

Maria Orsino: Maria is wearing a simple blue dress and a gold necklace, sitting in the waiting room.

Lavinia: lights up at seeing Gueiris

Lavinia: Please, come in!

Lavinia: Mother, you know Lord Kyrnon, of course.

Gueiris: steps in and stands next to Lavinia

Maria Orsino: Yes, of course. Lord Kyrnon, welcome to our home.

Gueiris: Thank you very much for having me here, Lady Orsino.

Maria Orsino: Of course. Come, have a seat. Lavinia has prepared some tea and biscuits. She's very good at that sort of thing, you know.

Lavinia: smiles

Gueiris: looks at the tray

Gueiris: Do you recommend anything?

Maria Orsino: Try one of these, they're very nice.

Lavinia: Those are the strawberry tarts I've been working on. I think I may have finally cracked them.

Gueiris: nods and takes one to try

Lavinia: Mother, Lord Kyrnon and I were hoping to discuss some... important matters with you.

Maria Orsino: All right.

Lavinia: glances at Gueiris.

Gueiris: Yes, about our future. Together.

Lavinia: We would like to ask your blessing to be... betrothed.

Maria Orsino: Oh! Oh my goodness! I don't know what to say.

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, you know, my daughters are to me so precious, and I have always wanted the best for them.

Maria Orsino: One hopes to think that some lord will come and sweep them off their feet. But, you know, it has not been easy for Lavinia.

Gueiris: I am aware that this journey has not been easy for Lavinia. I assure you my intentions are genuine and am more than resilient to handle any struggles that we may encounter, especially with Lavinia's help.

Maria Orsino: You are in good health, then?

Katherina: is definitely not listening outside the door and v-i-b-r-a-t-i-n-g with excitement

Gueiris: is a little taken aback by the question

Gueiris: I... yes, I am in very good health.

Maria Orsino: Good. I am glad to hear it.

Lavinia: nods.

Maria Orsino: I would be remiss if I did not ask about your situation, Lord Kyrnon. My daughter's financial security and wellbeing is of highest importance to me.

Gueiris: That is understandable. While I am not the heir to the Kyrnon family, that does not leave me without standing. My Aunt and Uncle, have fully adopted me into theirs.

Gueiris: I also have some personal holding from the dissolution of the mercenary company my birth parents founded.

Maria Orsino: Would your plan be to reside here, in Highmark?

Gueiris: looks at Lavinia

Lavinia: /me looks up at Gueiris and then back at her mother

Gueiris: I don't believe we've come to a final decision on that. I am open to it or other locations.

Lavinia: I don't know where we would settle, but I should very much like to travel with Lord Kyrnon for a while. I want to see the world.

Maria Orsino: Well, that is a good thing to aspire to, dear.

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, as for the matter of your occupation, it does give me some concern that a mercenary's wife, or a military wife, is not what I envision for my daughter. To sit at home, awaiting the return of your husband ... or not.

Lavinia: That's why I will be going with him.

Gueiris: I am eager to travel with her.

Lavinia: And I cannot think of anyone else I would rather see the world with.

Lavinia: looks up at Gueiris with a smile.

Gueiris: My youth offered me the opportunity to see much of the realm. I want to share that with Lavinia.

Maria Orsino: That is very reasonable. I want to make sure that my daughter is secure, throughout those travels, and then the entirety of your lives together.

Maria Orsino: Having said that, Lord Kyrnon, you have impressed me with your seriousness of purpose and your devotion to my daughter's wellbeing.

Maria Orsino: How long of a betrothal period are you envisioning?

Lavinia: We were hoping to be wed on the midsummer holiday.

Maria Orsino: Quite soon, then. There would be many preparations to undertake, of course.

Lavinia: Well, given my previous record, it seems best not to drag it out overmuch.

Maria Orsino: And then, you would expect to leave on your travels shortly after that?

Gueiris: nods

Gueiris: although that would not preclude returning for winter holidays.

Gueiris: to visit family.

Maria Orsino: Well. In that case.

Maria Orsino: I am pleased to give my assent for the two of you to be betrothed.

Gueiris: Thank you very much

Gueiris: is beaming

Lavinia: Oh, Thank you mother!!

Lavinia: will leap up and hug her mother

Maria Orsino: Katherina, dear, no need to hide any longer.

Maria Orsino: You can come out and congratulate your sister.

Katherina: opens the door and runs over to Lavinia

Lavinia: will hug her sister as well.

Katherina: gives her sister a big hug

Lavinia: Kitty, you will of course be maid of honor!

Gueiris: looks happily at the sisters

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, welcome to our little family. I hope you will find all the happiness your heart desires, in this union.

Katherina: Well of course! Congratulations, I know how happy you are for this. It pleaases me to the bottom of my heart to know it.

Katherina: looks to Gueiris

Katherina: and you as well, I am happy for, because I do believe you care for her, and how could she not make anyone happy that she has chosen and has chosen her in turn?

Lavinia: :3

Gueiris: finally eats the strawberry tart

Gueiris: if he gets a moment alone with Lavinia, he will take the opportunity to hug her close and give her a quick kiss

Lavinia: will absolutely return the gestures

Round 2: Gueiris' Aunt

Gueiris: later Gueiris has invited Lavinia and her mother to Kyrnon Manor, to meet with his Aunt Alexeria, the Lady Kyrnon

Gueiris: brings Lavinia to his aunt's study

Gueiris: Aunt, may I present to you the Hersir of Feigrsteinn, Lavinia Francisca Whitbottom Orsino.

Lavinia: will curtsy.

Lavinia: My Lady, it is an honor to finally meet you.

Alexeria Kyrnon: And an honor to meet you as well, Hersir Feigrsteinn. May we offer you refreshments?

Lavinia: Oh, just tea, thank you.

Alexeria Kyrnon: will pour it for Lavinia herself.

Alexeria Kyrnon: And, may I ask, to what do we owe this honor? My son has been cagier than usual.

Lavinia: Well, Lord Kyrnon and I... we were hoping to discuss something with you.

Lavinia: puts down her teacup and braces herself.

Alexeria Kyrnon: I should think that was obvious, but, please, continue.

Lavinia: We would like to ask for your blessing to be betrothed.

Gueiris: Yes, I've asked Lavinia to marry me.

Lavinia: I love your nephew, My Lady, with all my heart. I have a title, and lands, and a family with no small prestige. I believe that it would be an advantageous match for all involved.

Gueiris: and I am so grateful for your encouraging our meeting.

Alexeria Kyrnon: smiles indulgently at that.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Have you spoken to your family about this already, Hersir?

Lavinia: Yes, we have. Just this morning.

Alexeria Kyrnon: You both seem very motivated and committed to this.

Lavinia: We are.

Lavinia: looks at Gueiris.

Gueiris: smiles at Lavinia

Lavinia: smiles back, though a bit nervously.

Gueiris: I am committed to this.

Gueiris: looks back to his Aunt, his eyes stern

Alexeria Kyrnon: Then I am pleased to offer my assent as well. I hope you will both be very happy.

Lavinia: feels her heart skip a beat in her chest and smiles with relief.

Alexeria Kyrnon: There will, of course, be many things to discuss before the day is upon us.

Lavinia: Thank you, My Lady! Of course. We will need to make preparations.

Gueiris: Lady Orsino is here, if you two would like to meet and discuss.

Gueiris: we hope to be wed on the midsummer holiday.

Alexeria Kyrnon: (to Gueiris) Just a tad presumptuous perhaps, but prudent. I should be happy to speak to her.

Alexeria Kyrnon: That leaves us little time. There are no pressing concerns, are there?

Gueiris: You doubt I cannot behave myself as a gentleman, Aunt?

Lavinia: blushes a fairly deep pink

Lavinia: Ummm... no, My Lady... nothing pressing.

Gueiris: I have not been that long from Highmark.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Many a gentleman has made many a mistake, but, please, forgive me. I mistook ardor for haste, and apologize for any offense.

Lavinia: Oh, no, none taken, of course.

Gueiris: This is happy news for both families.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Indeed, and we'll need to celebrate. An announcement will need to precede the date, so we haven't much time.

Gueiris: I'm sure there is some event coming up that will be approprate.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Something Lady Orsino and I can discuss, I'm sure.

Gueiris: We'll bring her in and you can do so.

Lavinia: Thank you again, My Lady. You've made us both very happy today.

Alexeria Kyrnon: You are most welcome, Hersir, and allow me to offer a preliminary welcome to our family.

Gueiris: will step out with Lavinia to fetch Lady Orsino

Gueiris: I don't know if she is up to something, but I don't care. We're one step closer.

Lavinia: What would she be up to? Why would she give her blessing if she did not want us to marry?

Gueiris: She is always planning something, but it doesnt make a difference. Its not stopping us.

Lavinia: will squeeze Gueiris' hand reassuringly.

Gueiris: squeezes right back and smiles.

Leonora and Zanne discuss Thurston's Villainy

Narrator: Leonora will receive a note from Justiciar Zanne Machel, Marquess Lownmont, requesting a meeting with her at her earliest convenience.

Leonora: will attend, guessing some of what the conversation must surely be about.

Leonora: (is Zanne about the same age as Thurston, or older?)

Narrator: (How old is Thurston again? I think they're of similar ages. Zanne should be in her late 30s.)

Leonora: (yeah that sounds right)

Lamont: (I think that makes her younger? I think we figured out Thurston is like early 40s)

Narrator: (Again, similar. She might be a little younger)

Leonora: (am I meeting her at her home, or at some official office in the city?)

Zanne Machel: will have arranged for lunch at a social club, ensuring privacy while not provoking too much notice.

Leonora: arrives slightly ahead of time to ensure that the place is secure and no obvious signs of anyone looking for such a meeting. If there is, I depart immediately.

Narrator: There doesn't appear to be, and Leonora is pretty good at spotting that sort of thing.

Leonora: awaits the arrival of Lady Lownmont, then.

Zanne Machel: will have been waiting. She's a tall, wiry blond woman with a shorter haircut than is strictly fashionable, dressed in relatively modest clothes for the heir to House Machel.

Zanne Machel: stands when Leonora enters and beckons her over.

Leonora: comes to join her.

Leonora: Lady Lownmont, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Zanne Machel: Likewise, Lady Wengal, despite the circumstances. It's a shame we haven't met previously. Please, sit. Would you like something to drink?

Leonora: Just tea, for now, thank you.

Zanne Machel: will make a gesture, and an invisible servant will bring tea.

Zanne Machel: All things considered, I thought it best to rely upon magical service for this meeting.

Narrator: (unseen, rather)

Leonora: Yes, and if you don't mind, I'm going to activate my dragonmark. Just in case. It will protect us from any sort of espionage.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Leonora: does so.

Zanne Machel: I shouldn't think mine is necessary, and it's more polite if I don't, but your's would be prudent.

Zanne Machel: Thank you.

Zanne Machel: I was very troubled by what's been brought to me regarding my cousin.

Zanne Machel: Moreso given the possibility of his involvement in my brother's death.

Leonora: I can't speak to that directly. But I have known Thurston for many years. So I don't take any of this lightly.

Zanne Machel: The two of you were romantically linked?

Zanne Machel: Forgive my directness; hazard of the job.

Leonora: Almost fifteen years ago now. Romantic is too strong a word, but yes, there was a courtship for a time, and discussions of a marriage.

Zanne Machel: And now?

Leonora: And now what?

Zanne Machel: You've had little contact with Thurston in the intervening time?

Leonora: Very little. I wrote him earlier this spring, upon making the acquaintance of Lamont.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Leonora: Other than that, though, no, we were clearly not a good match, in retrospect. Not that I saw it quite that way at the time.

Leonora: When one is eighteen and new to the social scene, it is easy to see a failure to match as a personal failure.

Zanne Machel: Rather than an arrow dodged.

Zanne Machel: I'm familiar with the feeling.

Zanne Machel: Again, forgive me, but what is your relationship with Lamont?

Leonora: Well, nothing is official yet. But Lord Wengal and I are planning on contracting with Lamont to provide us an heir.

Leonora: Provided that this matter does not intervene.

Zanne Machel: Ah, of course. I shouldn't think that it would, and I hope such an arrangement will prove beneficial to all parties.

Zanne Machel: Lamont and I are not close, but he and my brother were, and, well, he's had more sorrow than anyone as young as he is should have to face.

Zanne Machel: What can you tell me about the attack on Therma Alba? I've spoken to Curiate Amathalis, as well as Fyan Nabari, but the report of a second Sentinel scion would be beneficial. We have...different training than most.

Leonora: nods.

Leonora: It was organized, in a sense. In the sense that they clearly knew that there were high-value targets there. My sense is that they had not anticipated the degree of resistance from individuals other than their top targets.

Leonora: If it had just been, say, Fyan Nabari and a few others, plus the small number of guards at Therma Alba, the outcome likely would have been different.

Zanne Machel: Foiled by a party. Embarrassing.

Zanne Machel: says mirthlessly.

Leonora: Lord Wengal and I are not unaccustomed to interruptions to our social lives, being from Nachtur.

Zanne Machel: So the recovered letter most likely had its cipher broken, then.

Zanne Machel: does smile slightly at that.

Zanne Machel: I'm familiar. I was with the first wave of soldiers in the retaking.

Zanne Machel: If I hadn't already been settled in Highmark, I might have moved out that way myself, but people needed allies here.

Leonora: I have to ask, because you have known him for much longer and far better than I have ... what is Thurston aiming at here?

Zanne Machel: I'm not going to lie, Lady Wengal, this investigation is proceeding, but slowly. I'm near certain of Thurston's involvement, and I take a very dim view of those who truck with primordials and their cultists, but...he's done this sort of work for years. He's good at covering his tracks.

Zanne Machel: In a personal sense, I believe he wants to retain control of House Allard, however he can.

Zanne Machel: As to the attack, and the cultists, well, it wouldn't be the first time people have tried to use them for their own purposes.

Leonora: The ends and the means seem ... disproportionate.

Leonora: To cause no end of damage to property and life, in order to achieve a political end.

Zanne Machel: The Confederacy has seen worse, for less.

Zanne Machel: But I agree.

Leonora: To think that I could be married to a man like that ... it is nauseating.

Zanne Machel: Hopefully, no one will ever suffer that fate.

Zanne Machel: Nor, if I can help it, suffer at his hands ever again.

Leonora: How else can I be of assistance to you?

Zanne Machel: Given your history with Thurston, would you be willing to meet with him? Perhaps you would be able to finesse confirmation of his involvement out of him?

Zanne Machel: I'm approaching this from all possible angles.

Leonora: I would, in principle. It would need to be approached with great care.

Leonora: I have not been greatly looking forward to the possibility that I might have to talk to him about this other business of mine and Lamont.

Leonora: But perhaps that is the way forward.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Zanne Machel: If he's not aware of the arrangement just yet, perhaps it is another point on which to press.

Zanne Machel: I and my team are working our way back through his network of agents, but...I'm sure I don't need to tell you how complicated the intelligence work of the Houses and the Confederacy can be.

Leonora: I will be most cautious not to disclose anything that would jeopardize your team's work.

Leonora: The question of whether I can raise the existence of the letter is very tricky. Without some mention of it, it's hard to see how the discussion becomes productive.

Zanne Machel: I can have an exact copy supplied, if it would help.

Zanne Machel: Perhaps you could bring it to confront him with? Or to inquire, at least.

Leonora: That would be helpful.

Leonora: How would you want me to say I acquired it?

Zanne Machel: Recovered at Therma Alba. It has the benefit of being close to the truth.

Leonora: And how much of this would you like me to share with Lamont?

Leonora: He seems like he has much on his mind right now.

Zanne Machel: I'm trying not to overburden him, but I also don't want to keep him out of the loop. I'll leave it to your discretion; it's unlikely he'd let anything slip.

Leonora: Understood.

Zanne Machel: I appreciate your aid, though I'm sorry you've gotten pulled into Thurston's orbit. Or blast radius, as the case may be.

Leonora: It is as it must be. We are called to serve, so we serve.

Zanne Machel: Our watch never ends.

Zanne Machel: raises her glass to Leonora.

Nik and Coifárë Visit Lamont's New Apartments

Lamont: will have invited a few select people to the place he's rented for the rest of the season

Nik: (what's the place like? 🙂

Lamont: has managed to find a furnished townhouse in Highpark - the decoration style is a bit older, a bit ostentatious for his personal tastes, but respectable.

Nik: It's quite nice!

Nik: says encouragingly

Lamont: Thank you. If I were keeping it longer, I would definitely make some changes

Coifárë: Oh? Who knows, maybe you'll want to keep the bachelor's getaway. 😉

Lamont: well. If I do, I will be changing a few things. But I think with more time I could find something more suitable, also

Lamont: the privacy has certainly been a relief

Nik: Oh, are you saying you'll want to get away from me? 😉

Lamont: and, thank you both for coming

Nik: teases

Coifárë: chuckles at Nik's teasing.

Lamont: Maybe you'll want to get away from me

Lamont: teases back

Nik: smiles

Nik: I can't imagine.

Nik: But maybe if I want to do a little writing in a quiet location...

Lamont: Yes. And honestly at this stage, just the idea of having such a retreat is... somewhat appealing, regardless of circumstances

Coifárë: Having something and somewhere that is your own?

Lamont: Indeed.

Lamont: But outside of the season, who knows where I may wind up, anyway.

Lamont: For now, I will be grateful for it, and to my cousin, who helped with find a steward to manage with getting everything set up so quickly

Nik: I'm glad that it was possible to find such a fine place this far into the season.

Coifárë: Oh, is there any gossip as to how you managed it? Someone had to leave town quickly for some reason, perhaps?

Lamont: Nothing too outrageous, or I wouldn't have wanted the association - I feel as though I've been the center of enough talk for several seasons.

Lamont: It actually belongs to the Bressnet's, the Earl of Laiss's younger brother Malorix

Coifárë: gives Lamont an encouraging smile.

Coifárë: Oh?

Lamont: He was recalled to Morrow a few weeks ago

Lamont: so not too dramatic, except that it may be a general foreshawoding of events to come

Coifárë: frowns.

Coifárë: Yes, I keep hearing things are deteriorating down there.

Lamont: nods

Lamont: My own unit was recalled to Highmark while I was ill, but my leave still stands for the moment

Nik: looks a bit worried about that

Coifárë: Do you think they'll be deployed?

Coifárë: specifically refrains from asking whether Lamont will be as well.

Lamont: it seems highly likely, but it could not be until the end of the season

Lamont: glances between the two of them

Lamont: My own situation is, at present, less certain.

Coifárë: Well, it's progressing, at least?

Lamont: Yes.

Lamont: I told Nik, but Zanne has decided to have the inquiry about what happened with Gerry's patrol reopened.

Coifárë: That's...good, right?

Lamont: Yes.... He was her brother, though they were not close

Lamont: Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful

Coifárë: nods.

Lamont: says, only a little bit like he's trying to convince himself

Lamont: smiles a little

Nik: If there is anything we can do to help, of course you need only ask.

Lamont: I didn't meant to bring us to such heavy topics

Coifárë:

Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful

Lamont - jump

As we should all strive to remain, I'm sure. Marquess Lownmont (Zanne's current individual courtesy title) serves Bahamut; she'll see justice done.

Coifárë: And you don't need to apologize, though we can move on to more pleasant things if it will help set your mind at ease.

Lamont: It's alright, I don't want to keep anything from ether of you - though this is meant to be a holiday

Lamont: please though - tell me what you think of the lunch

Narrator: (What're we having? 😛 )

Lamont: (Salad with some early summer fuits, a cold soup and cold cuts, with some nice bread and butter plus various pickles, cheese condiments etc?)

Nik: Everything is very nice!

Lamont: (cold cults more lied cold sliced roasted chicken and beef rather than like salami or whatever)

Nik: I received a letter from my parents, in response to my telling them of our engagement. They wished us all the best, of course. My father intends to be back in Highmark in a few days' time, as most of the injured have recovered enough to depart by now.

Coifárë: That's good to hear on all counts, Nik.

Coifárë: smiles brightly.

Coifárë: Hopefully you'll be able to announce soon.

Coifárë: And, yes, the food is scrumptious, Lamont.

Lamont: Thank you.

Lamont: My uncle insists on a 'proper' meeting. I said I would host here but, we will see.

Lamont: I don't know how quickly any of the investigations are proceeding, or what my situtation will be even if there is ny move against him

Nik: Should we arrange that for after my father has returned, so that he may be there?

Nik: I mean the meeting. not ... the other things.

Lamont: Yes, that would be wise.

Lamont: and proper

Nik: nods

Nik: Maybe I could set up a little writing table over by that window...

Nik: considers, looking around the room for possible places

Lamont: It does get quite good light

Nik: would it be in your way?

Lamont: Not at all

Coifárë: smiles mostly to themself at that exchange.

Nik: Oh, good. Because I do think my editor has been very patient but at some point will really think I should get back to work...

Nik: says carefully

Lamont: Your editor?

Narrator: (Has Nik revealed anything to these two at this point, vis a vis his book?)

Nik: (no, he's kept it quiet. I think just because it never seemed like the right time to bring it up when Lamont was dying or people were being attacked etc. always other stuff going on.)

Lamont: 9I think just to kitty)

Nik: (yeah he did tell Kitty)

Coifárë: (to Lamont) Did we know he has an editor?

Coifárë: I think you've been holding out on us.

Lamont: no - have you found someone to publish your poems?

Nik: Well, I did write a book...not poetry though, a romance. And since it's done rather well, they think I ought to do another one, only I haven't had a good idea yet... I know I hadn't told you but it never seemed like the right moment to mention it. I wasn't trying deliberately to be secretive.

Lamont: oh.

Lamont: Well. You should publish your poems.

Nik: Well... perhaps 🙂

Coifárë: What's the title of your book?

Nik: At Last The Night...

Nik: says, a bit embarrassed

Coifárë: At Last the...Nikession Amathalis! You're Melodye Fayre?!

Lamont: of course does not react because this means nothing to him

Nik: Um... yes. I thought my parents likely would not approve of my name being on such a work, so I used a pen name.

Coifárë: Be that as it may, how did it take this long to tell, well, me? I don't think Lamont has read the novel...

Lamont: watches the exchange, and shakes his head

Nik: I don't know! I wanted to say something earlier but when people were saying such nice things about it, it seemed like I would be bragging if I was to interject with the claim that I wrote it. People might not believe me... I didn't mean to hide it, really, it just never seemed like the right time to tell you.

Coifárë: Hmph. Punishment will needs be forthcoming, of course.

Coifárë: says with a smirk.

Nik: of course I'll accept whatever you think suitable :3

Coifárë: Though I daresay Lamont and I can help provide inspiration for your next book.

Lamont: frowns a little at that

Nik: Oh... well, maybe a little? At least in terms of, um, making some of the elements more, well, true to life? But I wouldn't feel right using things from my friends' actual lives in a story.

Coifárë: chuckles.

Coifárë: Yes, Nik, that's more what I meant.

Coifárë: I don't particularly plan to have my life serialized, though I suppose it has its perks.

Nik: chuckles at that

Nik: I haven't actually, um, well, looked at how much money the book has brought in. I just asked to have it all set up so I wouldn't have to deal with that. I probably should, though...

Lamont: well, you shouldn't need to.

Nik: no, but I mean... I think there are things one can do with income like that, I don't really know all the details, but perhaps invest it or something? Or use it to help people?

Coifárë: There's an idea. Anything in particular catch your interest?

Nik: I don't really know. Would you have any suggestions?

Nik: looks at both of you

Coifárë: Not as such, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Miss Allement's cause. Which, of course, is Chitara's as well, but from, perhaps, different angles.

Nik: Ah, that's true... perhaps worth thinking about?

Lamont: 's frown deepens a bit

Lamont: I'm sure Nerath has many worthy causes..

Nik: oh, I'm sure. I had not made any particular decision on such matters.

Lamont: nods

Coifárë: Not a fan of their work, Lamont?

Lamont: I'm not familiar with Miss Allement. I have spoken some to Miss Kitus, but I don't believe our perspectives are entirely in alignment.

Coifárë: I appreciate their passion, though I'm certainly familiar with the opposing arguments. My family, as a whole, is...not sympathetic.

Lamont: I'm sure.

Coifárë: Perhaps I could persuade you both to attend one of Victorina's speeches? She is, at the very least, quite energetic.

Nik: Certainly, I'd be willing to attend.

Lamont: I feel as thought I have enough matters to attend to for the moment, thank you.

Coifárë: Yes, of course, I don't mean to be putting anything else on your shoulders at the moment.

Lamont: It's such a complex issue, in any case

Coifárë: As you say.

Coifárë: In any event, hopefully today's festivities will lift your spirits, and you two should be joyful in any case.

Nik: smiles at that

Nik: Yes, I hope so 🙂 Lamont, you will come to the celebrations, won't you?

Lamont: What, today? I thought that was the plan...

Nik: Yes, well, it was, but if you were feeling as though you had too much else to do, I would quite understand.

Lamont: Oh, I had been looking forward to it.

Lamont: says, sounding surprised

Nik: Oh, good then 🙂

Nik: leans over and gives Lamont a kiss on the cheek and squeezes his hand

Lamont: smiles

Coifárë: Splendid. 😄

Lamont: Well, if we're all finished with lunch, we could consider venturing that way?

Nik: Certainly!

Coifárë: Of course.

Sebastien Opens the Celebrations and Talks to Rosalie

Sebastien: Addresses the gathered crowd up on the hill in front of one of the large tents set up for performances later in the day

Sebastien: ...And so, in the spirit of our forefathers, House Doumens welcomes everyone here to our annual Founders Day celebrations! We hope that you will enjoy the provides entertainments, and maybe find something to commemorate a day spent in fraternity with your fellow citizens, whether for your selves or those special people in your lives. Thank you all for joining us!_

Rosalie will be waiting close by as Seb exits the spotlight

Very well done, brother. Eloquent as always! winks

Sebastien: will wait out the polite applause, and after a few more encouragements to the crowd, will come down and smile at his sister

Sebastien: Well, with such a fantastic speechwriter how could I not be ^_^

Sebastien: (probably did embellish things a little here and there, but not too far off script and nothing embarrassing)

Rosalie The speech writing is only half as important as the charisma that delivers it.

Sebastien: This is why we make such a great team, Rosie dear ^-^ But surely we should do some enjoying of our own - is there anythign in particular you wanted to see or do?

Narrator: (Juno really needs to walk through their eyeline at that point 😉 )

Lamont: (she does ;)

Rosalie looks as if her attention is caught briefly by someone in the crowd

Oh...uh, yes, I should like to see some of the artisans, certainly. I'm anxious to see how well they are received and what goods they are presenting.

Sebastien: Oh I'm sure they'll have some lovely things prepared, given the day and the nature of the crowds here, shall we stroll over and take look? Though if you'd rather find other company....

Kate(She/they): Victorina walks through the crowd, handing out pamphlets promoting the Ebemar expo.

Rosalie Oh, no, let's go take a look. I want to spend some time with you before your lady captures you attention. grins

Sebastien: Oh very well! I do have something to show you, on that front....

Sebastien: will take a small box out of his jacket pocket

Rosalie looks very excited and claps her hands together

Sebastien: Do you think she'll like it? I feel lie we re on the same wavelenght, and we may as well move forward with things....

Rosalie I think she'll love it, and I am so excited for the both of you.

Sebastien: Oh fantastic! It ought to be a lot of fun, I think!

Sebastien: tucks it back away

Chitara: wanders over with a smile

Hey there, you two!

Rosalie Oh, hello, Chitara! Are you enjoying the festivities? smiles widely

Chitara: I am, yes! You really know how to pull together an event

Sebastien: My dear, how delightful, I was just speaking of you ^-^

Rosalie Thank you. It's one of the benefits of a mind for organization. I can't paint or write or sing for anything, but I can certainly put together a party.

Chitara: Honestly, it's a much rarer and more useful skill than painting, I assure you

Sebastien: will take her hand and kiss it

Chitara: beams

You delivered your speech beautifully, Seb.

Sebastien: Why thank you! I've had a lot of practice, you know, it is the one function of my role for the house that everyone agrees I'm well suited to.

Chitara: laughs a little

I'm certain you're well suited to more than that

Sebastien: Well, perhaps, but there are many capable hands in the house afterall ^-^

Sebastien: We were just about to check out the artisan booths, would you care to accompany us?

Rosalie Oh, I see someone I know. she says super convincingly

I shall go say hello and meet you over there in a bit.

Sebastien: Oh, wonderful - do enjoy yourself, you've put it so much work!

Chitara: Have fun, enjoy! I'll see you later.

Rosalie waves and smiles before heading off

Sebastien and Chitara Tour the Fair

Chitara: So, where do you think we should start? links her arm with Seb's

Sebastien: Oh well - wherever you would like!

Chitara: Hmmmm... Then I suppose I'd like to find out where that delicious smell is coming from

Sebastien: Fantastic! The concessions are all over this way. There should be a good assortment from vendors all across the city representing all the major cuisines ^-^

Chitara: grins

Alright, wonderful. I really love the variety of food here, so many things I'd never had before

Sebastien: Well, all roads lead to Highmark, they say! There's a little bit of everything here.

Chitara: I love it. We had a reasonable variety in Ebemar but it was nearly all Akhasic. Nerathi cuisine has such variety

Chitara: sniffs the air

So, what is that delicious spicy smell, do you know?

Sebastien: Oh hmm.... It's coming from just over here, let' go see!

Chitara: will head in that direction

What's your favorite thing to get at a festival like this?

Sebastien: Oh, well, you now you can get a whole roast leg of - well they call it pheonix but it's not really. But they are quite fun, if a bit messy. But those often go together, don't they ;)

Chitara: Oh, that sounds delicious. I'll have to try that later, when I get properly hungry.

Sebastien: yes, nuts to start I think - not too filling ;)

Sebastien: Can get a cone of spicy almonds, and hands it to Chitara

Chitara: grins and eats one with a happy sigh

A good snack to start the day, yes. So, now that we have a snack, we should... I don't know, you pick this time? We can alternate.

Sebastien: ell why don't we go take a look at what the guilds have brought out, see if there's anything you like?

Chitara: That sounds lovely. Lead the way?

Sebastien: Absolutely!

Sebastien: will offer his arm, and head with you in that direction, stopping along the way to be scial and ontroduce you to all manner of ~fancy people~

Chitara: is delighted and charming, if a bit aggressive by Highmark standards, as they walk

You seem to know everyone!

Sebastien: Well, many poepoe here, certainly - It's our family's turn to host it this year, it cycles between the signatories. So of course I have to be social! I enjoy it though, its good to see everyone at such a cheerful occasion ^_^

Chitara: Oh, so it's not your family every year? I hadn't realized it rotates. That is an interesting way to do it, certainly.

Sebastien: Well, its all about tradition, history, all of that, and several of the original founding families still remain, so we share the honour.

Chitara: nods

I guess I don't know much about the history behind this holiday, now that I think of it.

Sebastien: Well its basically about the birth of the confederacy - the first cities coming together with Ioun's direction

Chitara: That much I know. But that's mostly all I know.

Sebastien: Well there' not too much more to it really!

Sebastien: It's just a big party ^_^

Chitara: Parties, at least, I am familiar with.

grins and winks

Sebastien: will take her all around the party and probably pick up a few things from the artisans, spend too much time with the games until she pulls him away to find something for dinner, and then watching some of the evening performances

Rosalie and Juno Begin Courting

Juno Morticia Auspex: will be wandering through the fair, watching various demonstrations and perusing products. In the spirit of the festivities, she has gotten her face painted: a little skull on each cheek.

Rosalie will catch sight of Juno again and walk to join her. She has also had her face painted with a floral design on the left side

Rosalie Hello there!

Rosalie I am pleased you made it! How are you enjoying the festivities?

Juno Morticia Auspex: smiles brightly seeing Rose.

Juno Morticia Auspex: They're wonderful. You really outdid yourself.

Juno Morticia Auspex: How are you enjoying them?

Rosalie More now. smiles

I must thank you for your assistance with the guilds, I think it brings a whole new tradition to the celebration.

Juno Morticia Auspex: I'm glad. It's nice that more people are getting in on this part of the festivities, and I'll bet it's a boon for their coffers, too.

Juno Morticia Auspex: Would you care to walk with me, or is your time spoken for?

Rosalie I would love to.

Juno Morticia Auspex: blushes and then offers her off hand (the other one being occupied with her cane.)

Rosalie smiles and takes it

I am very glad you came.

Juno Morticia Auspex: I wouldn't miss it.

Juno Morticia Auspex: It's nice to just walk around and have something to celebrate.

Rosalie Very much so. What would you like to see next?

Juno Morticia Auspex: It's your event. What's sounds good to you?

Rosalie I told my brother a while ago I was going to see the artisans' table a while back, in an attempt at subterfuge, but I never made it over there.

Rosalie You can keep a secret, yes?

Juno Morticia Auspex: Professionally, as it happens.

Rosalie laughs

Rosalie My brother is proposing!

Juno Morticia Auspex: Oh! Wow, that's...amazing. Did you know this was coming? He and Ms. Kitus have only known each other since the season started, yes?

Rosalie Yes, but they are well-matched, I think. My brother has a different outlook on marriage than I do, and I'm glad he found someone with whome he can be content.

Juno Morticia Auspex: I'm glad for him, and for you, if you think they're a good match.

Juno Morticia Auspex: I do have to admit, I'm a little curious, though.

Rosalie Hmm?

Juno Morticia Auspex: How do you and your brother's outlooks differ?

Rosalie Ah. I am a bit of a romantic. Everlasting love, devotion, etc.

Rosalie My brother is...not. He finds satisfaction in new adventures. I'm glad he found a partner who is compatible.

Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, good for them both, then, I suppose. I'm...more inclined towards your view, though.

Juno Morticia Auspex: looks away momentarily.

Rosalie smiles softly and blushes

Yes, well..clears her throat

I'm also glad his chosen partner is someone who is able to make him happy and keep him from enjoying his games too much.

Juno Morticia Auspex: That's a balm for your mind, I'd wager. Rather, I would think. I'll leave the wagering to others.

Rosalie laughs It is. It also eases some of the weight off my shoulders and leaves me to...well, pursue my own happiness. gives her a side glance and blushes a little

Juno Morticia Auspex: I'm glad, if admittedly for perhaps selfish reasons. I would like to...help you...pursue happiness as well?

Juno Morticia Auspex: I think I bungled that, but hopefully you'll understand my intent and forgive its manner.

Rosalie gives a huge smile

I believe I understand, and I should like that very much.

Juno Morticia Auspex: Oh, thank the gods. As you might imagine, I'm rubbish at this sort of thing, but I think you're wonderful and I very much enjoy spending time with you.

Rosalie laughs

To be honest, I am rubbish at them as well. I prefer plain speaking because I can never understand when someone is flirting with me.

Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, quite the pair we make, then.

Juno Morticia Auspex: turns to look at Rose eye to eye.

Juno Morticia Auspex: Rosalie, I adore you, and I would like to court you, and this is me doing so. 😉

Rosalie smiles and laughs lightly

Juno, I adore you, and I heartily accept your proposition.

Face Painting!

Lamont: will be waiting in Line at the face painting with Nik

Nik: Goodness, I don't know what to get....!

Lamont: (and coifare if they want :V)

Lamont: Hmmm... flowers? I've seen some nice ones

Nik: nods

Lamont: Like the cherry trees at stillmarch.... I don't know though. Whatever you like.

Nik: Did you know that when you go to a Sehanine temple they also paint your face? or like, your hand, or somewhere... they have special symbols that mean things and it's all very ceremonial 😄

Coifárë: A snowflake would go well with your hair.

Nik: asks Lamont, since obviously Coifare knows ;)

Lamont: I had heard somethign of it...

Coifárë: gives Lamont a curious smirk at Nik's question.

Nik: A snowflake would be pretty, but would it be too white on white? 😄

Lamont: YOu could get it in blue...

Nik: nods

Lamont: I think I saw someone with silver paint...

Nik: oh, if they can do silver that might be good!

Katherina: Nik? Coifare? Are you both in line here?

Katherina: approaches from the side

Nik: Oh, good afternoon, Kitty! Yes, I'm waiting in line to get my face painted 🙂

Lavinia: follows a few steps behind her sister with a box of popped corn half as big as she is in her hands.

Lavinia: Oh!

Lavinia: My lords!

Coifárë: Kitty, Lavinia, so nice to see you.

Lamont: looks over (and down) at the halflings

Lavinia: It's a pleasure to see you again as well!

Lamont: Hersir, do you need some assistance with that?

Coifárë: will kneel down to give Kitty a hug.

Lavinia: Oh, yes! I'm afraid they only sold them in one size.

Lavinia: Please, help yourself!

Lamont: will unburden her of the giant thing of popcorn

Lamont: That's not very considerate of them

Lavinia: sighs.

Lavinia: You get used toit, I suppose.

Nik: Are you enjoying the festivities so far?

Lavinia: My eyes were quite literally bigger than my stomach.

Katherina: hugs Coifare back warmly

Lavinia: Yes, it's been a lovely day so far.

Coifárë: Is Kyrnon about? I haven't seen him since we got back.

Lavinia: Oh, he's around. We all came together but we lost track of him somewhere around the games section.

Katherina: looks up at Lamont and then over at Nik and Coifare, and then at her sister

Coifárë: He would get distracted by a chance to show off. 🙂

Lamont: Yes that sounds like him....

Lamont: And I'm sorry, you must be Hersir Feigrsteinn's sister?

Katherina: Yes that's right, I'm Lady Katherina, and I suppose you must be the Marquess Stillmarch?

Katherina: drops a quick curtsey

Coifárë: Oh, yes, Kitty, Lamont, Lamont, Kitty. Since you got the formal stuff out of the way.

Lavinia: Marquess Stillmarch, I wanted to thank you again for our discussion in the gardens at Therma Alba. It really helped me when I needed it.

Nik: Yes, Lamont is my... I mean, you know wink wink

Nik: says to Kitty with a smile

Lamont: You're quite welcome, I'm glad to hear so

Katherina: Oh I think I do ;) ;)

Nik: <w> the gentleman I mentioned to you

Coifárë: (to Nik, in Elduar) Very subtle.

Lamont: smiles politely

Coifárë: (to Kitty and Lavinia) Care to wait with us and get your faces painted as well?

Lavinia: Oh, certainly! That would be fun.

Lamont: will make room for them to join us properly

Nik: blushes at Coifare

Coifárë: Nik has been debating what to get.

Nik: Yes, I can't decide between flowers or snowflake 🙂

Katherina: oh, could you combine them?

Coifárë: A flower with snow on it?

Katherina: Oh like a bouquet of snowflakes, that would be so pretty!

Katherina: Or yes, that would be very nice as well.

Katherina: What are you going to get?

Coifárë: I was debating a sunburst, but perhaps I should try to go for something floral as well.

Lavinia: Perhaps a bouquet of suns to match Lord Evenor?

Nik: smiles at that

Coifárë: smiles as well.

Lamont: That would be lovely

Coifárë: (to Kitty) You could get one of moons.

Katherina: oh it would! Maybe I should get a bouquet of moons? Hmmm....

Katherina: Well that settles it then!

Nik: Yes, that would be perfect!

Lamont: smiles

Lamont: [follow ups here: Turns out Kitty knows one of the face painters - and Coifare and Nik may recognize him too - from the temple, because body paint is body paint and this is a good paying gig. Everyone can get fancy designs! Lamont, in the end, caught up in the peer pressure, winds up getting a snowflake on one side and a sun on the other. Very subtle, your grace.]

Sebastien Proposes to Chitara

Sebastien: I had reserved a spot to view the fireworks that should be most ideal - one of the perks of bien a host. Shall we go and wait there?

Chitara: has had an amazing day, seems utterly delighted by all of it

That sounds like a perfect way to end the day!

Sebastien: Well, I hope it will be a satisfying conclusion to the day!

Chitara: I'm sure it will be. Its hard to go wrong with watching fireworks in good company

Sebastien: _Will take you a little further up the hill illuminated currently with some dancing lights that show blanket laid out with some cushions, some chilled champagne and fancy treats like chocolate covered berries and such

Chitara: Oh, wow, you're really spoiling me tonight, huh?

Sebastien: well it is one of the confederacy's top holidays!

Sebastien: will help you settle comfortably, as well, and then join you

Chitara: fully gonna snuggle in once they're both seated

Chitara: Still, this is a hell of a spread. I love it

Sebastien: Well, I did have some ulterior motives, I must admit...

Chitara: Oh?

Sebastien: Well... You know this is a holiday about unity, people coming together and all that, and I know that's a theme that's important to you, and part of why you came here. And I know we've been having a good time and all, and I think even if we haven't known each other for too ling, I think we're a pair that could get on quite well for a long time. We see things the same way, in a way not a lot of others might. I know I'm a fairly simple man and the world you live in is quite complex, but that doesn't trouble me. I think we're well matched, and we could be of use to each other. I'm not the romantic my sister is, of course, but I hope you appreciate the sentiment. And, well, if you do, then perhaps you'd care to make it a formal arrangement, and marry me?

Chitara: seems to take a moment to process the ramble, then nods, beaming

Of course I'll marry you!

proceeds to tackle him with kisses

Sebastien: Oh mmm, wonderful!

Sebastien: will wait for the kiss cascade to subside

Sebastien: well I think I may have flubbed the order a bit but I did have something to accompany the question...

Sebastien: will reach into his pocket and draw out a box, which he will pass to her

Sebastien: there now. That belonged to my grandmother, and she left it to me when she died to pass on to the woman that I would chose to be my wife. So - that's you! I'm so happy!

Lamont: (It is a fancee ring, and call it a +2 ring of protection ;)

Chitara: Oh, right, a ring is traditional. she laughs a little breathlessly and opens the box

Oh, it's beautiful! It was your grandmother's?

Sebastien: Yes. It's enchanted, so it should fit

Sebastien: here...

Sebastien: will take her hand, and slide the ring onto it

Sebastien: There.

Chitara: stares for a second

Yeah, it does seem to fit. A little weird to see a ring on my finger, but with you, I'm excited about it

Sebastien: Well, I think it looks lovely on you. And there - perfect timing!

Sebastien: points to where the first fireworks are starting to explode colourfully across the sky.

Sebastien: A happy union day to you, Chitara ^-^

Chitara: Happy Union day to you as well! You've certainly made mine wonderful

Epistolary

• Letter from Lamont to his mother