Logfile from Tenebrae.

Reception Hall - Main Theatre

   In keeping with its intended use for any number of celebratory events, the main theatre of the reception hall is decorated with a spartan eye - allowing it to be easily transformed by those who rent it out from the most solemn of religious pageants to the most decadent of fetes.

   When not in use, the great hall is a vast open space; the brick of the building's construction is covered with a thin veneer of swirled grey marble, giving one of fanciful temperment the feeling that they're surrounded by clouds on all sides. A vaulted ceiling is supported by a row of stately doric columns down each side of the theatre, between which tapestries and hangings of various sorts are often strung when the hall is in use. At the end of the hall, a grand window allows the light of day - or moon - to spill through into the hall, with heavy curtains draped to either side that can be drawn across its surface.

   The hall is decked out in silver and green today--even the fancy serving plates and cups are silver rather than gold, or pewter. A buffet lines one wall, while chairs line the other. An open space provides plenty of room to dance to the minstrels' songs--those that aren't wandering amongst the crowd telling stories, at least. Servants, many of them hobgoblin, walk amongst the crowd offering trays of finely-prepared sweets. The hobgoblins are in green and silver livery, but the non-hobgoblins appear to be in gray and red for the most part.

     '+decorate <desc>' will set decorations for the hall for any occasion!

Contents:

Alina

Karelin

Carmina

Sophia

Jenner

Elyridian

Sandy

Zak

Rawsone

Obvious exits:

Private Hall <PH>  Out <O>

-------------  At a glance around Reception Hall - Main Theatre  -------------

Willow            5m 6'3"     245lbs Lb                              

    A hooded figure with a chain shirt, pistol and axes.                      

Valeska           1m 5'8"     142 Lb                                

    A strawberry-haired aristocrat wearing elegant gown and mechanic's gear.  

Darshan           0s 6'4"     243 Lb     Sith'makar        Male      

    Smaller, darkscale sith'makar                                            

Alina             9m 5'10"    155 Lb     Aasimar           Female    

    Silver winged, silver haired, purple eyed, ethereal beauty, with a wicke  

Karelin          54s 6'2"     232 Lb     Human             Male      

    Tattooed and one-eyed Korite warrior. Tall, dark and scarred.            

Carmina          18m 5'2"     100 Lb                                

    Slim, on the small side, blond, wizard robes, half-elf if you'd notice.  

Sophia            3m 5'8"     153 Lb                                

    A young human woman in the attire of a cleric of Althea.                  

Jenner            4m 5'10"    160 Lb     Human             Male      

    Local sailor-looking type, pale shirt, leather breeches, tanned.          

Elyridian         1m 6'3"     251 Lb                                

    Tall man with dark black hair and tanned skin, an engaging look about hi  

Sandy             7m 5'7"     117 Lb                                

    An elven female with black hair, blue eyes.                              

Zak               1m 6'5"     251 Lb     Highborn          Male      

    A tall man who is covered in tattoos.                                    

Rawsone          13m 5'4"     150 Lb     Human             Female    

    A young archer with a tanned face wearing sensible clothing.              

==============================================================================

"You squeal at the very mention of my name, Jenner," says Sandy, sourly, saying, "Has something to do with a broken pipe and being jammed somewhere unpleasent on your person if I can recall correctly." She puts her hands together behind her back, casting a glance towards various Hobs and the musical accompanyment in the form of Elyridian again. She just looks sour.

Baira breathes a sigh of relief, and then hurries after Lilly. Sergeant Groshalk has just moved to the front of the hall and given the signal for the musicians to quiet. Plus he's cleared his throat. He clears his throat -loudly-.

Elyridian finishes his tune, settling his flute back into it's case and reaching behind his instrument cases to take a sip from a goblet, putting it back out of sight once again.

Karelin strides in, dressed all in black -- nicely, too. Coat, pants, peacebound weapons. He doesn't put makeup on the scars, though.

At the back of the party, making their way through, House Mandara is present, decked in pale purples and silver. Darshan looks as urbane as ever, or as urbane as a sith may look, decked in finest, polished silver armor, with filigree'd dragons swooping down over arms and pauldron, a surcoat with Mandara's crest over his front. Slightly awkward, but with a resigned sort of settled-in feel, it nonetheless matches well, and he stands, patiently, accompanying a certain human Lady Madrienne Mandara who has Ganesa in tow. The small one is dressed nearly as a porcelain doll, her movements deft, smart, and sweet as she walks beside her aunt. Darshan looks over to catch Jenner's eye, a quiet expression of...well, a quiet expression. Suffering, might be an educated guess, but he's perhaps since learned to mask it. He grins.

Jenner tucks his hands up his sleeves, dipping his head with a wicked glitter of mirth. "The breaking was correct," he replies gently, "Though the shoving, hardly so. I'd say you looked ravishing, but someone might come after me for lying." He pauses, taking a sip before he continues in somewhat greater mirth. "Probably you." He glances about as others enter, a flicker of eyes catching the colors and banner of the Mandara crest. He covers his mouth with a hand, hiding his grin as he shakes his head. "Speaking of titles..." He glances back towards Sandy, curiosity alighting. "Exactly how did you come to possess a title of your own, Sandy? If, I might ask."

"I'm ready to punch you just for suggesting it," says Sandy to Jenner with obvious annoyance as well. She shrugs her shoulders, though, and then says, "Ah, I forgot about the shoving part. I had hoped I'd been with it enough to remember to do that, though. Oh well! And the answer is 'none of your damn business, anyways.' The elf socwls, promptly, at that.

Carmina arrives, dressed in the same (very nice, proper) blue party dress that she often wears to such occasions. Slipping in, she hovers by the door.

There is whispering among the hobgoblins, probably not *terribly* audible. Also, in the goblin tongue, but the gist is, "*That's* Lady Sandiel? So she *wasn't* killed by a hydra?" "I thought she *was* the hydra!" "Best let the silversmith know, he'll be almost finished with the second Statuary List Of Vanquished Foes by now." "Sandiel's not his foe!" "She looks pretty foe-like to *me*!"

Lilly coughs, and glares cheerfully in their direction as Groshalk clears his throat.

Alina slips into the party, as unobtrusively as she might. She's dressed in a blue silk dress, with a silver rose embroidered on the bodice. As she enters, she looks around quite curiously, her violet eyes wide. Soft smiles are given around as she starts to wander into the crowds.

"Ser Bard," Darshan says, nodding to Elyridian. He says the title somewhat awkwardly, like someone trying on a shoe that doesn't quite fit, but has, after repeated applications of a large crowbar, has been made to fit. "Elyridian, isn't it? Are you entertaining this lot today?" he asks, turning to the man as Lady Madrienne strikes up a conversation with a rather portly noble nearby. Ganesa glances back that way but stays properly with her aunt, curtseying to the man. Darshan spots Carmina and Alina and waves. He seems glued to the Mandaras today, the position of a noble guardsman. That at least seems to suit him--it settles around his shoulders comfortably, even if the...rest...does not.

Valeska arrives from the outdoor plaza.

Valeska has arrived.

Elyridian smiles at Darshan, dipping his head as he reaches for his lute again. "I am trying to do so, at least good sir," he murmurs. "No need to call me ser though, I hold no noble title nor such responsibility about my shoulders. How are you this fine evening?" he asks with clear interest.

"PREEEEEEEEESEENNNTING!" Even if most of the people in the hall hadn't already quieted, Groshalk's voice would still have carried over top of the noise. "ZAK! RAWSONE! AND THEIR ADOPTED CHILDREN! SAMANTHA! AND REGIN!" the hobgoblin bellows--and boy, can he bellow. "LORD AND LADY OF BLAR, SAH!" At the last word, he wheels around and snaps to attention like a marionette, facing a door at the end of the hall.

"Always so violent," Jenner remarks, turning aside to keep his glass (and his pipe) just out of reach. In case, possibly, someone might try to shove either or both down his throat. "But fair enough, I suppose. I'd certainly not want people digging about in my own aff--....." Any further words come to a swift, short, and sharp end as he pauses on a breath... Apparently trying to swallow, breathe, and strangle in stunned awe all at once. Sharp eyes lock onto the winged entrant to the occasion, and the mage tries his level best to get control of his reaction with a fierce cough.   

"Ye gods..." he manages to croak out, suddenly thankful for the bellowing voice.

"Oh gods," says Sandy when Jenner starts doing *that*. "Put your eyes back in your skull, boy." She gives him a sweat on the back, firmly. "Oh, did I break your spine?" She asks.

A while as the sith' considers his answer. The mouth opens, the throat starts to reply, and then the hobgoblin starts to bellow. Darshan nods, then turns around to face the front, bowing slightly. Lady Mandara turns in acknowledgement, and her niece as well. They, and probably countless others, turn and face. And wait. For the couple and children to descend.

"Where's Regin and Samant--" and her aunt's fingers touch her lips. Ganesa purples a little and quiets. Darshan grins at Elyridian. "One mrm, isn't sure they expected that. Watch their faces when they come down."

And into the formal reception comes Lady Valeska, fashionably late as she had rushed in from a side door. Apparently, a stray magnetization from her garmet magnetizer had happened to make her watch run slow! Somewhat embarrased, she enters without much fanfare and slips along in a dress completely devoid of grease stains or tools. Visible ones at least. A first for her and new personal best.

Elyridian smiles, "I suspect you are correct," he says sotto voice, coming off the stool to a position of court-like attention, watching the approaching group.

Jenner beats his own chest as he takes a shaky breath, glowering at Sandy in turn. Smoke and wine do not a pleasant combination make in one's lungs, but the mage manages to straighten himself up with a minor grimace. "Hardly," he croaks, rubbing his throat; a murmur extinguishes the pipe, and he shoves it back up one sleeve with a quick gesture. "Just saw something...." He pauses, eyes curving back across the room. "...striking," he murmurs, stealing another shaky breath.   

"..And no, it wasn't your fist," he adds to the Evil Elven Artificer!

Sophia quietly makes her way towards a spot to observe the entrance, which coincidentally happens to be fairly close to Jenner and Sandy. She peers at them with a curious expression, then shakes her head a bit, holding the small box in her hands still.

The door opens. If there's not a drumroll, there should be one. It isn't long before Zak, his arm linked with Rawsone's, steps forward. He does not look thrilled to be here. (Though he might be if he'd seen the crest.)

The drum from the Highborn bard is grabbed and he thumps a slow, steady beat in time to their movements - adding a sort of royal flair to the slow steps. BOOM-tap-tap-tap-BOOM-tap-tap-tap-BOOM...

Willow arrives from the outdoor plaza.

Willow has arrived.

Rawsone, meanwhile, looks as if she might faint--which probably explains why Regin is in Zak's arms instead of hers. Instead, she holds Samantha by the hand. Her dress matchees her daughters', and both look thoroughly primped and polished. Samantha is beaming--and when she spots Ganesa, she gives her a wave with her free hand. The ranger seems to be concentrating all of her efforts into moving forward with her husband. The drum doesn't seem to help her--she's got no sense of rhythm.

Karelin turns, smiling wryly, as Groshalk starts bellowing. He straightens up, grinning. Back straight, he watches.

Entering with Valeska is a very distinct golem. Standing nearly six feet tall, this construct is crafted of Bronze rather than a more traditional steel. The armor plates have been carved in fine swirling detail, shifting as much as the woven wooden limbs beneath. The Golem looks around slowly, eyes glowing a faint green as she steps to Valeska's shoulders. For all it's martial glory, the automata seems... nervous.

Alina goes wandering towards Darshan when she spots the priest of Daeus, waving cheerfully. She turns to peer at Zak and Rawsone when they're announced, brows arching up a bit as she spots their children. She fusses with her hair for a bit, eyes peering here and there, taking in all the faces.

Valeska waited along as just a minor guest of course. She was here more for the curiosity than the company after all, of the representitives of Blar. She moves a little along, procuring herself some delicacies often served. She looked a little behind her, smiling as they stayed to the side. "What is the matter?" she asks of the Golem, walking slowly. "This is an excellent opportunity to expand your range of experiential encounters, you know." she offers back a little sugary cheese treat on a tiny dish.

"Good, because my fist is about to strike you in the face repeatedly if you don't stop oogling. Or maybe I should just tell Kylie," muses Sandy, thoughtfully, on that last count. Her smile could be construed as 'sinister'.

Darshan grins at that, just grins. He looks slightly smug as the chaos ensues, blue eyes glittering with untold mirth. Of course, he works to hide it by the time anyone could look his way--a quiet but gentle smile is what remains. Ganesa is clamoring for something, but there are two of them to manage her today, and she turns back around, straining to see. Finally, imperiously, "Darshan, pick me up!" And then there's a pause as he leans down to whisper something in the little one's ear. She glances backwards, towards Sandy. And then marches that way, looking a little annoyed. But she stops just short, bouncing in her dress and holding her arms up. "Darshan says it wouldn't be proper for him to lift me here. And I can't see them!" she stomps her little foot imperiously. As though, of course, anyone she asks will comply.

The golem shakes its head, "I do not believe I have seen this many people in a single room before. I do not think there are this many peoople living in my Village." Lifting a hand to decline the proferred treat, "I cannot eat M'Lady."

*Zak* is looking a bit faint at this point, though he hides it pretty well. He's dressed in dark gray formalwear, with the exception of a green cloak which matches the shade of his wife's dress, trimmed with silver. And he's wearing his greatsword, though it's peacebound. (No spiked armor, though.) Regin is dressed in, well, baby clothes. Dark green ones. He seems happy enough.

"This multitude is hardly on the order of magnitude of a single city quarter." Valeska explains back to her animately anxious inanimate associate. She nonetheless takes and pops the tart into her own mouth. One grew tired of eating Instant Gruel while spending long hours in the workshop for lack of time to prepare anything better after all. She hums along, then gesturing to an elf in the crowd. Sandy. "That is Lady Sandiel, a mechanickal experimenter and engineer of great renown." she whispers back. "Who has a rather odd temprament though. And an uncharactaristically blunt vocabulary at times." remarks Valeska, suddenly gossipful because of her new buddy and the occasion.

Elyridian continues drumming, keeping the rhythm going until the pair and family have settled down into the room proper.

Darshan watches Ganesa run off, then turns his attention back to the crowd. Madrienne's smiles and applauds as the couple makes their way through, of course, though her guardsman murmurs something--apparently there /had/ been a bet on whether Zak would faint or not.

"I am not oogling!" Jenner protests hotly, a true glare arcing over towards Sandy. No pyrotechnics however, as he directs his ire back towards his wineglass, swallowing heavily... And almost choking anew as the Tiny Terror marches on! "I was just...." he whispers, pausing as Ganesa gets his full attention. He sighs, caught between exasperation and... probably being pounded upon. "I was just stricked by the moment," he manages to Sandiel, pausing as he traces a faint circle in the air.   

Beneath the young Lady (Ganesa, because no one would ever accuse Sandy of being a lady), a faint dic of pale, transparent gold appears, to silently lift the young woman into the air. "How is that?" he asks, a glitter of mischief in his gaze.

Rawsone moves forward, and sinks into her curtsey a bit early--apparently, she couldn't quite make it all the way. Samantha apes her, except for the part where she's grinning and just generally having the time of her life. Though one expects that she, too, is going to be demanding a lift from one of Jenner's discs. Anyway, Rawsone mumbles whatever formality she's supposed to say at this point, and Groshalk leads a round of applause.

Karelin slips over to stand near Carmina, as he murmurs: "Just think, who could have predicted this when the temple fell."

The construct nods to Valeksa, "I would be glad to make her aquaintance some time then, but she seems rather busy at the moment." In truth, the golem seems to be adapting fairly well. It's not one massive gathering, but a large number of little ones in the same space. If one doesn't try to keep track of everything, it's much easier.

Carmina's dress must have at least one hidden pocket, somewhere, because out of it scrambles her very...familiar companion. Yes, that one. Cupcake crawls up her sleeve, meaning that she doesn't notice him until he is actually on her shoulder. He is wearing a fitted blue jacket that matches her attire. As she applaudes heartily, Carmina turns to the rat, whispering, "Get down, you are going to scare people who don't know you." Although a rat, Cupcake manages to look baffled - who wouldn't know him? Meanwhile, Carmina reaches for him, apparently serious about tucking him away.

Sophia acquires a glass of wine, holding it in one hand while she has her box in the other, palmed rather neatly. She looks quite content to be standing to the side, out of the way of the ceremony as her eyes flicker around, taking everything in.

Carmina has reconnected.

Elyridian finishes the drumming, shifting to put the drum down and pick up the guitar, sliding back onto his stool with a smile at Dar next to him and beginning to pluck a slow, merry, light sort of tune that allows easy conversation.

Ganesa's little eyes go wide as she's lifted into the air. Wide! When it ceases to rise, she turns around to inspect every inch of this new toy, pressing at its edges with her fingers. Her aunt's laughter follows her back, but no one moves to correct the child. So she flops flat on her butt, flouncing down in her pretty new dress, and begins to try and see how you take Jenner's magic apart. "How did you do this?" comes the polite demand. And then more moderately, "If you please?"

Ahead, Darshan's tail thumps the ground as the applause starts, his own version of the human symbol of slapping limbs together, thump and hit again, sending an echo through the hall and probably a few odd looks from the nobility.

He does break a few tiles. "What song is that?" he asks Elyridian at length, swiping one of the glasses. And nods to the few looks he gets, though he's unaware they likely come from the mess of tile. "...is that Cupcake?"

Valeska slowly turns to lift up her Opera Glasses, tucked away somewhere ornamentally in her dress. No doubt some creative... place to put them exists. She peers through the room, striking up a brief conversation with a rather uninteresting noble of the sort that doesn't go out and risk life and death, but rather the more common sort that stays at home and counts passive income. She leans away briefly, continuing to observe the Golem's actions. "You should attempt to talk to someone. Initiate introductory dialogue." she nudges a little.

Zak neither curtseys or bows, but he does grin at people. Not as enthusiastially as Samantha does, because no one could, but he seems to be relaxing a little more now that they're out there. Gylf, incidentally, is nowhere in sight. "Thanks, folks!" he says, instead of whatever formal thing *he* was meant to say. "Glad to see you all!" He's a lord, he can say what he likes. Right?

The golem whispers, "But who?" But doesn't wait for an answer. The animate bronze statue walks through the crowd, body shifting in a very feminine manner as unobservant partygoes are nimbly avoided. For now, the automata is simply looking for suitable targets. The boring nobles seem less inclined to even acknowledge the machine.

Rolling her eyes at Jenner's response initially, Sandy turns towards towards the sounds of Ganesa and Darshan for a moment, watching the pair of them and then back to Zak and Rawsone. "Yeah, glad to see you too, Zak. Even if you look funny all dressed up." She points a finger at him, giving him a once over that doesn't do anything to resolve the amused expression on her face.

Elyridian smiles at Darshan, "It's a tune called 'Dance in the Glade.' he replies. "It's traditionally a song my people played in the spring. When the flowers bloom and the sun begins to peek out from the dark clouds of winter. It's a song you can play when swimming, when sipping wine on a warm night on the porch."

Jenner just waggles his fingers innocently, tiny ripples sparkling through the amber of the translucent disc. "Magic," he says mysteriously, giving the surface a pat. "Now remember your manner and bearing," he murmurs with a sharp glance towards Sandy. And a long, long sigh! "It is a noble affair, after all; even new nobility deserve a *little bit of courtesy!*" THe last is a hiss at Sandy herself, and a silent mutter.   

 

"It could be worse," he murmurs to himself, a glance coursing about the room with another sigh. "Kylie could be here..."

Carmina has reconnected.

Carmina has partially disconnected.

Carmina has partially disconnected.

Rawsone winces slightly at her husband's words as she stands, but also looks relieved that it's all over with--except for the party. Hobgoblins are sweeping up to them with plates and drink, and Rawsone makes the mistake of letting go of Samantha's hand. Samantha runs over toward Ganesa, grinning. "See my dress?!" she exclaims twirling about to show the green slashes of fabric in the silver dress. Rawsone takes a drink in one hand--those who get near it will notice it doesn't smell of alcohol--and offers to take Regin with the other so that Zak can mingle with the nobility already heading his way. She's -so- using the baby as a shield.

Darshan outright grins. "I er, see. I think I've heard it played before. Sister," he says, waving to Alina. "You'll mrm, excuse me?" He half-bows to Elyridian, then catches his Lady's eye before heading off, and the guards around her shuffle. There's only one other, a brown-haired man with a pair of shorts. A ways off from either of those she'd came with, Ganesa stays with Jenner and Sandy, practically glued to the magical, levitating device. She pretends to nod to what Jenner is saying, murmuring a "Yes, Tutor Jenner," and "Of course, Tutor Jenner..." ...and then Samantha rushes across the room. She squeals, and tries to help the other little girl atop the Magic Sparkly Floaty Thing.

"But who? Why..." Valeska looks about a little with analytical considerations flashing through her mind. Naturally, she imagines herself rolling a little lump with many facets, until a numerical result comes up to decide for her. "How about... him?" she points a little towards Darshan.

Elyridian grins, "Of course," he says to Darshan with a bow, and continues to play his merry tune, segueing into a slightly more crisp plucking number.

But Zak was going to use the baby as a shield! With a smile for Rawsone he hands Regin off to her and accepts one of the cups with another, foregoing food for the moment. "Howdy," he says to the first noble who appears to (grudgingly) pay his respects. Zak appears to have taken his cues as to how the nobility act in public from Lady Sandiel. Though he isn't cursing at the moment.

Samantha, already at home with Zak's jungle gym, does a good job of scrambling up onto the floating disc. She, too, squeals with delight. "I'm a real lady now!" she says, parroting something Baira told her. Meanwhile, even with the baby Rawsone isn't getting a respite--she's immediately cornered by a gaggle of women (yes, they always do travel in groups--and her dress and hair are exclaimed over.

The Golem is no where near Valeska when she responds, but instead has wandered close to the musician. Standing near Elyridian, the automata actually sways a bit in time with the music, head canted to the side in contemplation of the melody.

Alina's eyes dart after the little girl who runs over to Ganesa. There's a little sigh and the winged priestess is reaching absentmindedly to a passing tray full of wine glasses, deftly plucking a full glass and sipping from it. She smiles prettily at Darshan and greets, "Good evening, Brother. And how are you?" She gestures to the entourage he came with, "Busy, mm?" And then she grins.

Sophia pauses a moment, then quietly meanders over towards Zak, moving gracefully through the crowd as if well-practiced to such functions. Her eyes flicker back and forth, and then she ahems very softly, "M'lord, might I have a moment?"

Elyridian grins as the golem approaches. He leans over slightly, adjusting the tune a tiny bit - trying to add soft plucked notes here and there to mimic any natural noises that golem may make as they are moving - as if to help weave the melody into the golem and the golem into the tune.

Karelin folds his arms across his chest, as the mingling happens. He's still smiling, but its a social occassion. He stands near the half-elf Carmina, and mutters: "So, do you know anything particular about the Diamond Emperor?"

The sith' makes his way over and pauses, bowing faintly to the Althean, winged priestess. He glances Jenner's way directly, then, and back again, eyes full of gentle mirth, "Very well," he says, and pauses. Then, "One understands there are dances mrm, held at these events at some point. I don't suppose you'd mind rescuing a paladin?" Another partial bow. The movement doesn't suit him at all, but it's been practiced many times, through sheer force of will, determination.

Jenner struggles not to roll his eyes. He knows the "Tutor Jenner" line; he's heard it far too often to count! Leaving Ganesa and Samantha to squeal together, he bows his head with a sigh of mock-defeat. "Better thee than me..." he offers to Zak and Rawsone, glancing back for a moment as though searching for someone... "Hruthers!" he calls softly, still sharp. "Refill the glass. And make it snappy!"   

 

Handing the glass to... thin air... The crystal promptly whisks off, veering along as it zooms towards a bottle and a waiter, both stationed near. "Someone's going to drive me back to drinking..." he says quietly, sighing a quiet chuckle.... And just sighing as he brings his eyes back away from the white wings moving towards Darshan. "...don't you dare..." he murmurs to himself, sharp eyes focusing with a glower.

Carmina glances up at Karelin, smiling even as she continues to fight to tuck Cupcake away - the rat really wants to party. "Hm...the Diamond Emperor. Not so much, yet. I do know about someone else, but now is not the time."

Karelin grunts. "That's good." He twists his lips. "Never is, is it. I could start telling stories about two days under a temple. Pass the time." Durance vile, or something. He scratches at his eyepatch (it matches his coat!)

Zak glances briefly in Rawsone's direction, and is about to move off and rescue her (or try), when Sophia gets his attention. "Sure, and just call me Zak."

In truth, the tunes seem to work well with the Golem, and soon it begins to dance... but this is not the Dance of some rockem'sockem War-Golem. The bronze automata moves with a fluid grace that would put some, but not all, elves to shame. What's more, the Golem begins to hum softly with the tune... the song seems familar to the creation.

Indeed, the dancing has already begun. Rawsone and Zak were probably supposed to begin it. As it is, though, Rawsone manages to excuse herself and hurry over to Samantha, much to the consternation of the ladies she was speaking to. "Samantha, really don't want you on that thing," she says in her Reasonable Voice.

Alina tilts her head, peering at Darshan. As the sith glances back and forth from Jenner, she gives the Dauesite a most curious look. "Hmm? Oh, a dance?" She giggles, "I would be honored, Brother."

Sophia smiles, "I wouldn't wish to take too much of your time, but my family heard of this occasion, and wished to ensure that you got a small token of their appreciation." She offers Zak the small velvet box, "And their congratulations on this event, m'l... ahem, Zak." She curtsies again, once Zak takes the box, that is.

"I am sure you could find a willing audience for that story," Carmina says, casting a glance over the crowd. "What a long two days it was."

Elyridian seems intrigued by this, but very pleased. He continues his tune along, clearly a few minutes in he's improvising and just tying bridge and chorus parts together, making slight alterations to avoid repeating the same chords over and over again. A smile touches his lips as he watches the golem dance - as if this, the movement, the dance, the reaction - is something that touches him. He begins to sing, softly, the words melodic and Elven.

Darshan beams, and bows again, "One isn't much of one," he confides, and winks, once they're turned away. "But mrm, they seem to have a decent band. Are /you/ familiar with this tune?" he asks her. "I've never...I'm from a swamp," this, wryly.

Ganesa pouts at Rawsone. Just pouts, "We're /learning/," she says importantly. And looks up at her, with big, little-girl-eyes. "Don't you think that's important?" Oh. Crap.

Zak peers down at the velvet box, and then looks up, giving Sophia a smile. "My thanks to you and your family. It's much appreciated...um...sorry, have we actually met before?" He is, thankfully, entirely unaware of the conversation going on between Karelin and Carmina.

By now the Golem is completely immersed in the song, and is dancing smoothly in the area near the musician. The crowd around clears space, having never seen a Dancing Automata like this before. The dance is fluid and intuitive rather than structured and formal, though it is clear the Bronze machine has danced before. Perhaps not court dancing, but definately something.

So Sandy, now, makes her way towards Karelin and Carmina. She goes to place a hand on each of them, looking amused herself. "Why *hello* there," she drawls. "It's good to see both of you. Are you going to all laugh at Zak too?" She asks, wide eyed.

"But Rawsone--" Samantha's younger than Ganesa, and it shows. "Can learn just as well from the ground. Now come down here, Samantha. -Now-," the ranger repeats with a slight emphasis when the girl doesn't immediately respond. Pouting, Samantha begins clambering down from the floating disc.

Elyridian continues the singing - just weaving in and out of the tune. Those that speak elven can recognize the words - an ancient form of the language, speaking of sunrise and warm mornings, crisp wine and clear running streams, dew-laden grass and children laughing at the new life blooming around him. His fingers pluck at his instrument, continuing the tune as he shifts just a tiny bit on his stool, still smiling and watching the dancing figure.

Alina shrugs a little bit at Darshan, "I can't say I am good at it either, but, we can try." She grins, lightly, then bites her lip, "I am not personally familiar with the tune, but I'm no noble girl either." Parties, it seems, aren't quite her scene.

Jenner is, sadly, not paying his complete attention to the disc and its precious cargo. Which probably explains why it's slowly rising and weaving, a bobbing cork as young Samantha clambers at the edge.   

 

"Learning is very, very important," the mage says absently, thinking the question directed at him. "...Darshan..." the mage softly mutters, positively tugged in three different directions at once. The floating glass returns with its new cargo of wine... One the mage grabs and drinks in a swift rush.

Sophia shakes her head to Zak, "No, but I believe you knew my sister." She smiles and nods her head, "I am Sophia Lightbringer, priestess of Althea from Byrn Myridor."

The golem is now the main attraction for bored nobles, the novelty of the fluid dance drawing many eyes. But it is not enough to distract those with other business and conversations. For the automata's part, the rest of the party might as well not be there.

Carmina just lifts an eyebrow at Sandy. "Hmm..." said thoughtfully. "Sandy, have you had anything to drink?"

 

Karelin looks down and around at Sandy. "Maybe not laugh." A shrug. "Lady Sandriel, so nice to make a formal appearance." He scratches at his facial scars.

"I wish," says Sandy, "I'd had more to drink." She eyes KArelin, then says, "You lost your eye," she remarks, "Did Chandra poke it out?" She then snorts at Carmina, "I'm only being 'nice' because I'm hoping you'll both make sure the evening is totally memorable for our hosts." A wide eyed, innocent look on her face now.

Elyridian seems less focused on general party music and more focused on the automaton - his eyes taking in it's every move, the tune playing onward his voice shifts, the next verse sliding into Common now - the words about Volstengrade, a morning spent on a wall, dancing and twirling under the night air.

The sith nods, and takes the priestess' hand in his, then the other at her side. Mirth, merriment, and he steps back, watching the crowd, "We'll start on your right, then. I'm mrm, counting on you to make me look good!" And then off they go. He finds a place in the gathering crowd and gathering dancers. Some still stand and talk, but they join the dancing ones. He has, it proves, little natural dexterity, but the tail provides some balance. Not as good as the golem's, but it works.

Karelin beams at Sandy. "No. It was a chosen of Garm." He smiles easily. "So drink more. Also, if you dance on tables, we can offer suggestions."

Alina eeps and sets the glass aside, before wandering onto the dance floor with the sith. Her violet eyes go wide, and then she laughs, "I am not certain I will be able to do that, but I promise I will try!" She sets her free hand on his shoulder and does her best to dance. And keep from whacking the other dancers with her wings, which proves to be the harder task.

Now Karelin is getting a flat look from Sandy. "I do *not* dance on tables. Nor do I dance at all. Period." She glares at him. Just -glares.

"Lightbringer, Lightbringer...I'm sure I know that..." Zak thinks for a moment and then, "Oh! As in Adaiah? You're her sister? Glad to know you, then!" He glances over at Samantha, Rawsone, Ganesa, and a piece of artifice that looks quite terrifying to him. (Though there are at least no gnomes in sight). "'Scuse me. We'll have to talk later when things ain't so crowded."

Rawsone helps Samantha down with the arm that isn't holding Regin. "Good girl. Now why don't you go ask..." she scans the crowd, and her eyes widen a bit when they get to the little group that is Carmina, Karelin and Sandy. "Uh...go see if Mister Shouty will dance with you. I bet he'd love to. Can come back and play with Ganesa when you're done." Something in her tone has Samantha scampering off. Rawsone, who clearly thinks the spell will end at any moment, watches her go before moving toward Karelin and the ohters. However, this takes her past Lady Mandara. "Lady Mandara," she greets Darshan's liege.

Carmina has reconnected.

"You could get me a drink," Carmina points out, mildly. She does seem to like her spot against the wall. "And Karelin, too."

No longer the primary dancer, the Golem appears to come to it's senses. Slowing from a spiral, the automata lowers it's chin in what appears to be a look of embarassment. There are a few claps from the watching crowd, as well as a few amused chortles. The Golem turns to Elyridian and offers a deep bow to the player.

"Lady Rawsone," Madrienne laughs. She offers a nod of her head, to the other, "Congratulations on your new position. How are the kids taking it?" she seems genuinely interested, and passes a glass back to the server as she turns her attention to Rawsone.

Elyridian smiles as the song is wrapped up and he dips his head and shoulders into a wide bow. "You dance as well as any I have seen before," he murmurs politely. "You have nothing to be embarassed, of this you have my word," he adds.

Sophia nods, "Of course, of course. Good evening to you, m'lord Zak." She teases a bit, then curtsies again and slips off, making her way through the crowd now that her token has been left for the newly minted nobles. However unconventional they might be.

Elyridian then picks up a new tune, suitable for dancing - as folks are now doing so.

The golem responds, "Thank you M'Lord" Offering another bow, the automata attempts to fade into the crowd, though that's a hard task when you're six feet and made of metal and wood.

"Thank you," Rawsone replies, coloring slightly before looking back over her shoulder at Samantha. "They're...well, Regin's too young to know any better. Samantha's been convinced she's a princess since we got her, so...not all that different, really." She gives the other woman a weak smile. "Ganesa's growing fast."

Darshan has to watch his tail, too, so that's alright. He manages it not too badly, but it's clear he'll never win an award. "M'lady insisted I learn the skill...I er, hope I'm not doing too badly? --watch the wings," he asks at one point, bemused at the second as they nearly collide with a man talking about these "newfangled waterclosets." The dance takes them by Jenner and Ganesa, the latter of whom seems torn between irritation at her playmate being taken away and applauding the dance. "Oooh! We should dance too, Jenner!" she looks up at him. "Well! It would be embarrassing if I was the only one who wasn't asked!" Poor Jenner.

"So's Samantha. Or Lady Samantha is it, now?" Madrienne returns to Rawsone. She looks down to the little girl, and blinks. "/You're/ just a little bigger than I thought," her tone suggesting it's much bigger than 'a little!' "Now, are you sure you're the same person?" she asks.

Zak relaxes a little when he sees Samantha setting off in search of Groshalk. "Lady Mandara," he says with a smile as he approaches her and Rawsone, giving the latter a smile. "Thank you for coming."

Elyridian has disconnected.

Alina turns her head to peer at the person they nearly crash into, eyes widening a bit and she shifts to keep her wings from smacking him, just barely succeeding. "Oh, sorry!" she apologizes anyway, and continues, a bit clumsily, to dance with Darshan. "The Lady asked that you know how to dance? Why so?" She arches her brows a little bit.

"Suppose it is Lady Samantha, now. Though...I don't know, since she's adopted." Where is Baira when you need her? Unfortunately, Samantha has already run off. "Yes, thank you," Rawsone says, echoing Zak--even though she looks as if she would be happier if *no one* had come.

Jenner wasn't staring. Really he wasn't.   

 

      ....Much.   

 

"...be shocked if he doesn't step on his own tail..." the mage mutters in an ongoing under-his-breath tirade. "All that metal and claws and great flaming spires, he can't possibly have ever danced before...!" Suddenly, Ganesa's words hit him like a thunderbolt, and he glances over at the girl to stare. "You want what?" he asks, hovering disc soaring over with a glimmer. "But....!" His head races back to the dancers with a struggle. Woe, torment! "...couldn't you ask Darshan?" he finally asks, trying his best to smile. (And not grimace)

"What, you think I'm your serving lass now?" Sandy snorts, then turns towards Darshan, because *he's* the serving lass. "hey, Darshan! Get me, Carmina and Karelin some drinks, would you?" She then turns back towards the other two. "See? That works." A solemn nod.

"I think they get titles, same as we do, but it ain't as mandatory for folks to use 'em while we're still in the picture," Zak says after a moment. "Least that's how Lilly explained why no one calls her Lady Atherton." He hears Sandy call out, of course, but so does Shalla. "Full round of drinks coming right up, sah!" the hobgobliness says before bustling off to make someone's life miserable until drinks are produced.

The music slows and so does the sith'. He glances around, and looks to draw them out of the crowd, past the portly man, past the noble dowager tottering on her last martini. "She said it was..." he grunts, tries to make it as though he's clearing his throat. "It was like--it was a needed skill," he finishes lamely, and then quiets a moment. Just a moment. "Excuse me. I need to go punch someone. Daeus just called--a divine mandate, Sister."

The still unnamed golem has made it's way towards the more conversationally oriented groups, passing near Sandy, Carmina and Karelin. For now it seems content to watch and listen.

"Oh, a party like this? How could I refuse?" A trace of a smile there, a touch of sadness. Then firmness, as Madrienne looks towards Rawsone, "Bloodline is most everything, of course. But...I've found that a strong will may do it as well. If you and his lordship declared it, I doubt anyone will argue with you." A brief pause, light behind the eyes, quick thinking. Quite the opposite of Darshan as she carefully accepts a second drink for the evening from a passing servant. "As one of your new peers...for her sake, I'd urge you to do so."

Carmina has partially disconnected.

When sensitive elf ears tell her Darshan is going to go 'punch someone', Sandy turns towards him and lifts an eyebrow, asking, "When did Roland get here?"

Karelin smiles wryly. "Well, this should be interesting." He refolds his arms, and exhales.

Rawsone looks to Zak. She says nothing, but for a moment looks incredibly weary, as if she'd just finished running all the way from Bryn Myrrdion. She even clutches at his arm, though she doesn't actually look like she's in any danger of falling over.

Alina blinks at Darshan's last comment, "What? Who're you punching?" She looks like she doesn't approve of his 'mandate'. She then glances at Sandy when the elf peers that way, and her brows arch, before she greets, "Hello, Sandy."

The Golem just /happens/ to interpose between Darshan and Sandy as the lizardman approaches the elf.

Carmina glances up at Karelin, nodding. "Someone likes to be the center of attention." Cupcake squirms out again. "Unfortunately, there is a lot of competition..." said as she sighs at the rat.

"It's all Darshan's fault," says Sandy giving Carmina a nudge, "But I hardly like to be the center of attention. But, you know, when you see a chance for a cheap shot.." She sniffs.

From boil to merely heated, Jenner's steam eases as the dance ends... And rises as Sandy appears once more in the fray! "Someone... someone somewhere..." He breathes a sigh, holding a hand to his face before he shakes his head. "Must surely think that this is a delightfully good joke." Crossing his arms, he sets the golden disc to weaving for Ganesa's benefity, raising it a bit more so that she can see. "All that's needed is for Sandiel to punch someone out..."

"Mrm..." the sith's slow voice as he grasps a drink, himself. It doesn't fit so well--the stem doesn't 'perch' between the fingers. It sits instead, clasped in claws, awkward in glass. "Lady Sandiel," he says gravely. "It is, as mrm, always, a pleasure to see your lovely face decorating a house such as this one." He stops just the other side of the golem, looking up at him, as though to say, 'now you've bodyguards?' He looks at Sandy, to no end amused. Blue eyes glitter as he drops the other volley, "Truthfully, you make the angels dance in the heavens."

Karelin nods to Carmina. "Many people like that role, almost as fervently, the opposite." He nods towards Alina.

Zak takes one look at Rawsone, and then at Lady Mandara. "They're our children," he says quietly. "Blood or not, that's how it is. Consider it declaired." He smiles then at Rawsone and slides an arm around her waist, saying, "think we've been presented enough yet?"

Karelin just fades into the background...

Karelin goes OOC.

Karelin has left.

Madrienne's smile could blind the sun. Impulsively, she leans over, and clasps Rawsone's hand briefly. "Stand on the mountains and declare it!" she says, and laughs. "You both must be very, very proud."

"Don't really think so," Rawsone tells Zak, shaking her head. "Think this is going to go on for hours yet. And--" she starts but then Madrienne has taken her hand. "Oh, we...we are...I *think* we filled out all the papers and everything already. But...excuse me. Someone I really need to talk to before she leaves," Rawsone says, slipping out of both their embraces to head toward Carmina. In the background, Samantha stands on Groshalk's feet as he 'dances' with her.

Alina gives Darshan and Sandy brief 'looks', perhaps something akin to a motherly scowl. She doesn't want to have to tend to silly wounds, after all. She turns to someone wandering by with more wine and ganks a full glass, sipping lazily from it.

Chandrakanta has connected.

Chandrakanta goes OOC.

Chandrakanta has left.

With Willow's presence now noticed, Sandy squints at the golem for a moment and then just grunts at this. Then she reaches out to take the glass from Darshan. "Why *thank* you," she drawls, then she has a gulp from it. A pause. Her eyes narrows. She swallows, tightly. "...nmmngh."

The Golem speaks, "My appologies for intruding, but if I understood things right, this was to be a civilized and peaceful evening." the head turns to Sandy for the civilized part and Darshan for the peaceful. The voice is deep, but soft and melodic.

Carmina glances up as Rawsone comes her way, nodding politely. Glancing at Sandy, she notes, "I still do not have a drink."

"We're quite proud, yeah," Zak says, and it's true enough, when Lady Samantha isn't peeping at the top of her lungs. "Excuse me, Your Ladyness." He makes his way through the crowd, and, pausing just for a moment as he stands near Darshan and Sandy, says, "anyone who starts a fight at my 'Hey Guys, I'm A Lord Now', party, I will personally throw them in the fountain. And the fountain's really far away so I'd be obliged if you didn't. Have a good evening. Try the wine, it's very...winelike."

Jenner closes his eyes as he gathers a breath, exhaling slowly as he straighens his robe, brushing his hands together with a forced calm. "Hruthers," he murmurs, and the glass is returned to his hand by the Unseen Servant. The mage rubs his brow, forcing the grimace away as he stretches gingerly. "...remind me again of why I thought this was less stressful than the school?"   

 

The only answer is the ghost of a sigh from a long-suffering magical butler.

Passing her drink over to Carmina, Sandy says to Zak, innocently, "Oh, I wasn't going to start a fight. I promise, Zak!" Of course, telling Sandy 'don't start a fight' is like saying 'start a fight PLEASE'. She's also very bad at looking innocent. Or sounding innocent.

"Always glad to be of service." This, gravely, from Darshan, with a partial bow to the lady in question. Amusement knows no end. "Of course. Ser..." he pauses, then nods, and then Zak comes over and...he looks all sad for a moment. "Of course not, Brother. I wouldn't do such a thing. The priestesses would mrm, have me peeling potatoes again. However, one cannot resist offering compliments as befits the mrm, occasion."

Alina gives Zak an amused glance at his comments to Darshan and Sandy. With a grin, she murmurs a quick, "Hi, um, Lord Zak. Lovely party." She's then downing her wine, eying Darshan and Sandy still.

And the sith' looks all for the world perfectly serious. 'Daeusites have no sense of humor' may as well be branded over his head in bright, blinking lights.

"Carmina." Rawsone catches the other woman by the sleeve, and leans over to whisper quietly to her, her words masked by Zak's happy declaration. She gives him a bit of a frown when he finishes, knowing full well he'd like nothing more than to make good on his threat because it would get him out of the party. Elsewhere, Baira is deep in conversation with one of the hobgoblin servants.

Sophia heads out of the reception hall.

Sophia has left.

The Golem then turns to Sandy, offering a lithe hand, "M'lady, Lady Valeska said I should make your aquaintance. My name is Willow Jonneson. Would you do me the honor of this dance

?

Carmina looks startled as Rawsone grabs her sleeve, and guilty, as if she's disobeyed some edict Rawsone's laid down. But, as Rawsone talks, Carmina's expression relaxes. "I will," she says.

Blink.

 

 Sandy looks down at the golem's hand. Then up at her. Then down again. "Did I just get asked to dance by a golem?" She then bursts out laughing, "I'm sorry. I don't dance. At all. Ever. These boots are good for stomping and kicking unwelcome idiots in the n.. Someplace inappropriate." She grunts, then stomps her booted foot on the floor.

"Sandy, Samantha's better at that innocent tone than you are," Zak says with a laugh. "And she ain't good at it at all. Thank you, Darshan." A glance at Willow, and he just smiles. Nothing he could do to Sandy would be better than what's just happened. "'Scuse me, folks." And he wanders off to mingle some more.

Zak has disconnected.

"Alas, I seem to be lacking such inappropriate places." Willow bows her head, "All I could offer would be appropriate then." The head tilts to the side, an almost amused look.

"Thanks," Rawsone murmurs to Carmina, but like many of the others, she's staring at Sandy and the golem. "Don't think I've ever seen her *kick* anyone," she manages finally.

Darshan returns to his own drink, swiped from a passing servant. Nothing comparing to the look his own liege is giving him, of course. He looks...amused, still, and takes a drink. "He /is/ right. You do need to practice. Mrm. And if I can dance, you could..." he pauses, "...at least make the attempt. One adds that it is your friend's party." That, in quieter tones.

Carmina nods, then looks up and whispers something in reply to Rawsone.

Rawsone simply shakes her head to Carmina's question, and is quiet a moment. "Glad you came," she says after a moment, and while it seems mostly directed at Sandy, she also glances over at Darshan and Sandy briefly.

Sandy just grunts, "I still don't dance." She gives her boot another stomp on the ground, heavy soled workboots clumping as they hit the ground. She eyes Rawsone for a moment, then says, "IT went good, Rawsone. Really." A slightly softer, more sympathetic tone before she eyes Carmina. Warily. As if expecting trouble from her for some reason.

Carmina eyes Sandy back, then holds up two empty hands. "I still do not have a drink."

The Golem nods, "Very well M'lady, I am glad to make your aquaintance." She then turns to Darshan, giving him equal courtesy, "Sir."

Darshan pauses then, and bows. He offers his arm to Rawsone, "Care to try, m'lady? One mrm, promises not to step on your feet to often, and it will get us out of a crowd," he sounds amused. He's behaving, and at the same time, he isn't, judging by what standards the viewer used. But he is looking like he's having a good time.

Lady Mandara looks like she's going to go after him with a broom. As soon as...the other nobility is politely out of sight.

Rawsone pauses, staring at Darshan's arm as if she'd never seen it before. A moment later, it looks as if she just -wishes- she'd never seen it before. "Don't dance," she replies, shaking her head, though decidedly more futilely than she has in the past. After all, a lady is expected to be able to dance! From across the room, Baira is glaring at Darshan.

Having made proper recognition of Darshan, Willow drifts out of the spotlight, eventually finding her way back to Valeska.

"Darshan will step on anyone's feet anyways. He's clumsy," says Sandy with a snort, giving the lizard a nudge with her foot before she turns back to Carmina, holding out her wine glass to her, "This is for you," she says, sunnily.

The sith nods, "I don't often, myself," he says quietly, then, in lower tones. "But m'lady convinced me it was a way to...get to know the room and the people in it. One of those...'social' things," he makes an uncertain gesture with his claws, then nods, raising his voice again. "It's an mrm, pleasure to make your acquaintance, Willow." Now he has two women glaring holes in his back. It's proving to be an awkward day. Oh, and another just stepped on his foot. When Sandy offers the glass to Carmina, though, he finds a sudden interest in his own.

"...Fine," Rawsone says, with the air of someone getting their own hanging over with. She proceeds to take his arm, and let him pull her out onto the dance floor. She's graceful--she'll never once step on his feet--but she utterly and completely lacks any sort of rhythm.

Carmina takes a sip of water, then immediately sets it aside. "Sandy," she says, in her 'I am trying to keep my temper' tone. "I have had enough." And then she turns to go, bidding farewell to Zak and Rawsone on her way.

"Hey, blame the Sith," says Sandy, pointing at Darshan. It's all his fault! Her eyes are wide again.

Escape! Gods, ESCAPE! Darshan passes the glass to a servant with an almost-too-profound sense of relief and heads back to the dance floor and away from sets of glowering eyes. He isn't that graceful. Really. He isn't. And it's good one of them is. He knows the steps, but that's about it. "You know...Baira is glaring at me," he says, almost conversationally. And probably tries hard not to think about Carmina turning him into a toad.

"Oh, she's...wouldn't worry about it," Rawsone answers Darshan, following an average of about half a step behind him. "Thinks...well, it's not important. Just being very protective of me lately."

Carmina turns and glares at Sandy. "Oh, right. Blame a paladin. Very likely...Sandiel." Then she goes.

The sith nods, and clears his throat, as though he'd say something. And then...he magically isn't turned into a toad! Relief. Profound relief that he steps back, out, then towards again, forgetting to be awkward for about two seconds. "You know, mrm. You might mention to her...I think Brother Bastian's arranged to marry them."

"Now that's just dirty," says Sandy, hurrying after Carmina. No doubt to extract terrible vengeance.

"Marry who?" Rawsone asks, glancing behind her and just barely avoiding his foot. "I...oh dear. Baira's waving to me. 'Scuse me, Darshan." She curtseys, at least, once she pulls away, before she heads toward Baira.

<OOC> Darshan is wrapping up a log, btw, and about to post it.

<OOC> Darshan says, "If there's anything you want in it, please go ahead. "

<OOC> Jenner has nothing. Save perhaps crying like little girly man."