Theowyn stands with some Queen's Guard already around as Reynard enters. He simply nods in acknowledgement of the Guard, though his eyes head to the Princess that enters. He moves toward her, offering a hand in escort. "Princess Elyse."

If Elyse is glowing a little, her Lady-in-Waiting is trying to compete with the sun. She doesn't bounce, conscious of her duty to guide Elyse, but nevertheless has a bright, excited smile stretching her lips, a flush in her cheeks, and a sparkle in her eyes that speak louder than words as to her state of being.

Elyse smiles brightly, exchanging Alianthe's arm for Theowyn's. Sohai offers his own to Alianthe for courtsey's sake, should she want it. "My Prince," Elyse greets with rich warmth.

Forecourt: Barydar Manor, Caemlyn

Elyse grins, her hands neatly folded in her lap within the carriage, "Is it lovely, Ali?" she half whispers to her Lady-In-Waiting. Elyse, herself is unable to look out the carriage window.

Kyriele comes through the gates from Crown of Roses Avenue.

Kyriele has arrived.

Once Theowyn, Elyse, and Alianthe are escorted out of the carriages, the First Prince takes his place at Elyse's side, offering his arm. "Shall we enter, Princess? You are the guest of honor, after-all."

Alianthe grins and nods, exclaiming, "Oh, yes, quite! There are so many lovely trees, as well as people streaming into the house, all dressed in their best! It's so glittering and, well, beautiful..."

Reynard falls into formation with Theowyn's Honor Guard and prepares to escort the trio into the manor.

Rik comes through the gates from Crown of Roses Avenue.

Rik has arrived.

Elyse grins, her head tilted in the direction of Alianthe's voice, sighing somewhat wistfully, and hoping she doesn't appear nervous. Her contingent of guardsmen take up a similar formation as the Andoran guardsmen. After a lengthy moment in which she takes a deep steadying breath, Elyse nods once, "Yes, Prince Theowyn, we mustn't keep them waiting."

Rik, a Queen's Guardsman, enters a bit after Theowyn's party and takes up station with the other Guardsmen about the area.

Darayn comes through the gates from Crown of Roses Avenue.

Darayn has arrived.

Great Hall: Barydar Manor, Caemlyn(#4391RAM$)

Elyse has arrived.

Elyse arrives with Theowyn.

Reynard has arrived.

Reynard arrives with Theowyn.

Alianthe has arrived.

Alianthe arrives with Theowyn.

Sohai has arrived.

Sohai arrives with Elyse.

Durnik has left.

Sev smiles. "As well as can be, yes? I've long awaited the chance to finally meet you, m'lord."

Rio moves further into the great hall of the manor, idly stopping in front of the painting done by the master artist Raven. She tilts her head slightly as she studies the art. However, every now and then she turns to see who the next new arrivals are to the gathering.

Rik has arrived.

Taylon turns, beaming at the Princess's arrival.

Gail stirs from her reverie as newcomers arrive. She continues to stay well out of the way, but in a position where she can see everyone, studying faces and watching like a hawk.

Thorpe shooting a quick glance a delemar for rudeness he raises a questioning eyebrow at nevin with an inclination of his head towards the man

Demonder quirks a brow a touch. "Well, I did have the opportunity to spy you out from a distance, but as usual matters kept me away."

Daric bows his head again obsequiously before Nevin as he withdraws politely, allowing the Duke Barydar to greet his arrived guests.

Lelldorin has arrived.

Demonder's arm goes to the Lord's shoulder, as he nears to speak with him. He mutters to Deleamar, "I... we may agree... Durnik should... insured... is not... here,... The... Captain-General has... our... friendly order..."

Sev says "Well, I do hope I at least cut an appropriate figure, m'lord, if I was so absorbed as to miss my chance. Tell me, what occasion was this?""

Eglantine pushes her hair back, taking a breath, and does her best to look as if she knows how to act at such an event. She glances to the door, to see who enters, and she looks, often, toward Nevin.

Mouse kneels beside Kae's chair and fiddles with the harp case she's been carrying. Finally, she pulls the gleewoman's instrument free and carefully, almost reverently, offers it to the woman.

Demonder looks around briefly. "This is in honor of the Kandoran Princess, I hear," he tells Sev with a slight shrug.

Corod moves over to the painting that Rio is observing, and nods to her. "Hello. Haven't we met in the Rose and Lion? Under less happy circumstances." He says the last very quietly.

A herald's voice rings out: "Her Royal Highness, the Princess Elyse J'equql Sylia Kamikatsu, and His Royal Highness, Prince Theowyn Lancelyn Versyr, First Prince of the Sword!"

Sev nods. "As I was told when invited, but the murmurs grow thick, and I will...

Gail makes her way over to where Rio is standing before the painting. "Are you an admirer of the fine arts, Aes Sedai?" Gail tears her eyes off of the crowd and glances toward the painting, then gives a slight gasp and nearly drops her fan. "It's a Ravan..."

Sev turns and prepares to show appropriate deference at the announcement.

Alwyne finishes speaking with a young woman, and walks idly along the edge of the crowd, looking around. She pauses behind the Aes Sedai for a moment, studying the painting over her shouder.

Eglantine looks toward the guests of honor, as she fades into the crowd.

Thorpe moves to clear the way for nevin to the princess, calling for quiet as he goes

Alwyne looks over at the sound of the herald's voice.

Kae glances from Mouse at the herald's announcement, taking the harp from the girl as it handed over. Her hands upon the instrument move with familiarity, and she smiles to herself as she begins plucking out a few quiet notes to ensure that the harp has not fallen out of tune during the trip from the Inn to the manor. That done, she begins to play a quiet tune after saying a few more words to young Mouse.

Corod turns his head over at the loud sound of the herald.

Daric turns to face the entrance to the hall as Elyse is announced. He raises his chin slightly as Theowyn is also announced, his eyes seem to narrow ever so slightly as the name 'Versyr' is mentioned.

Lelldorin enters the hall, his face drawn and tired. He looks around, carefully keeping his eyes away from a corner of the room.

Rio nods to the man that has walked up beside her. "Circumstances at the inn are often less than happy, and yes, I do enjoy paintings. This one of the incident that sparked the aiel war is quite striking. The style of the artist reminds me of a portrait that hangs in my chambers in the White Tower." Then she pauses as the princess and her party is announced, not wishing to intrude upon the royal entrance into the manor.

Gliding in on the arm of the First Prince of the Sword, Elyse moves with a careful grace, her cornflower blue eyes gaze vacantly toward some distant spot ahead of her. Accomanying her is her Lady-In-Waiting, Alianthe Tanreiuta Basaru who is also heralded as well. A contingent of unarmed Kandori Honor Guard of six flanks the notables as they arrive, in addition to the Queen's Guard accompanying the First Prince of the Sword.

Gail nods absently, not heeding the herald. "Ravan was the greatest master that ever lived. If my own work could be half as good..."

Moving to stand at Nevins Right hand Thorpe stands to attention.

Kyriele has arrived.

Deleamar eyes the royal contingent warily. Though he has met the Prince and the Princess before, he doesn't seem to want much to do with them now.

Mouse nods, standing as Kae begins, and makes her way out into the crowd, ignoring the herald, herself. And why should she do any different? It's not like she knows anything about princes or princesses. Slipping past small groups of people, she pauses long enough to look prince and princess over, then moves on.

Cherise is about to answer Durnik when the Princess's arrival is announced. She turns slightly to regard the young woman that has arrived on the First Prince's arm.

Taylon beams in recognition of the princess. His eyes glazed over witht he fog of memeory.

Deleamar gestures to himself.

Nevin moves through the gathering to greet the Guest of Honor. "Your Highness, be welcome in Barydar Manor." He bows in accord with protocol.

Rik is someplace in back of the Prince's Honor Guard, looking polished, with his 'polite' face on.

Alianthe glides in behind the Prince and Princess, an excited smile on her face, guileless blue eyes sparkling with energy and excitement and not much in the way of intellect. She casts glances around the room, looking over the bewildering array of faces, before bringing her attention back to the host.

Darayn has arrived.

Lorilei has arrived.

Deleamar turns to address his cousin, carefully avoiding looking at Durnik. He mutters to Demonder, "For... with... man..."

Thorpe maitains a discrete distance of a few feet behind Nevin

Eglantine moves a little further back, ending at the stairs. Watching.

Reynard is standing opposite Rik, being that the two of them are lowest in rank among the Honor Guard. Once the Prince and Princess have been escorted inside, they break off to either side and take up positions out of the way of the revelry.

Rio turns and faces from the painting for a moment, to better observe the entrance of the royals. There is little written in her expression about them, for after all, she sees them everyday. However, she has fallen silent, to allow them the respect due their station as is her way. And to allow no interferance with the Duke and his formal greetings.

Theowyn bows in return to Nevin. "Duke Nevin. Thank-you for the invitation. May I present Princess Elyse J'equel Sylia Kamikatsu, and her Lady in Waiting, Lady Alianthe Tanreiuta Basaru." With the introductions he faces the two Lady's from Kandor, a slight smile coming to his features. The Prince is under strain, but it seems well maintained. His brilliant blue eyes take to Nevin once more.

Entering arm in arm, Darayn escorts the small woman at his side with perfect grace, holding himself only slightly apart from the woman as they enter the rather crowded Great Hall with matching subtle grins..

Nevin smiles to Theowyn, accepting the greeting with pleasure. "Your Highness honors our home greatly with his presence, as do the Princess and her Lady."

Rik isn't quite the lowest, of course, but always gets these jobs and bears it with apparent ease of long experience.

Kae is but a piece of the background, providing a rather subtle instrumental accompaniment to the proceedings. However, now that most of the room has gone quiet, her playing stands out a little more than it did before. Still, she seems to see no real reason for the introductions to halt her playing. After all, it's only a harp... not a giant copper bell.

Elyse offers a text-book (though a bit rigid) curtsey, balancing a bit on Theowyn's arm and extending a free hand to Nevin, palm facing down, "An Honour, Lord Barydar. You are a most gracious host."

Thorpe eyes the preceding with a face deviod of all emotion as good borderlander should

Sev filters back toward the painting, himself, watching who stands with whom as introductions are made.

Gail continues to regard the painting, looking at all of the facets and details, moving up close to examine parts of it intently.

Sohai, the officer in charge of the Princess' well-being while so far away from her homelands, offers Nevin a discreet but polite bow from behind and to the side. Doubtful a soldier would be recognized much, even an officer, but he makes the bow nevertheless. The other five Kandori Honor Guard move to take up similar positions as the Queen's Guard.

Bending slightly Darayn speaks a few soft words in Lorilei's upturned ear, elicitng a nod and a vaguely wicked laugh as the pair then begin to move towards the assemblage gathered to present themselves to the Guest of Honor.

Nevin accepts the hand and very correctly touches his lips to its back with the faintest graze. "I trust that everything will be to your liking, Your Highness. If it is not, you have but to say the word. Welcome to Barydar Manor, and, if I may say so, to Caemlyn at large."

Demonder nods to Deleamar, showing a hint of displeasure over another matter, but sets his sights on the Prince and Princess.

Alianthe sweeps an elegant curtsy to Nevin, but does not interrupt the greeting between the higher-ranked people. Her eyes start wandering once more, heading over to the source of the music and pausing there for a curious moment before wandering away again.

Eglantine moves slowly along the crowd, ending near Kae and the music, smiling slightly.

Rik speaks quietly to Reynard, quiet tones not disturbing the general hubbub.

Mouse slips between Nevin and Thorpe, heedless of protocol and guards and everything else. She glances at Princess and Prince as introductions are made, and is gone almost before she was there. She moves silently through the crowd, seeking something and not, yet, finding it. Twitch remains perched on her shoulder, eyes closed, ignoring everyone.

Alwyne's attention appears to be on the various greetings occuring near the entrance.

Taylon's eyes drift from the princess to the young Eglantine. He recognizes something in her and makes his way over to her.

Reynard chuckles a bit at what Rik says, He mutters to Rik, "Young... me,..."

Thorpe cold eyed glare burns holes in mouse's back as she steps between his lord and him

As a latecomer, it doesn't take Kyriele long to take in all those present and what seems to be happening. After a moment, she catches sight of a number of Roesone nobles, yet does not, for the time being, make her way towards them.

Well, now that the princess has been suitably announced, Cherise glances elsewhere; one reddish-brown brow going up as she spies Darayn..and her dear cousin Lelldorin trying to be..inconspicuous?..off in a corner. "Light!" she breathes.

Eglantine smiles slightly at Taylon, when it seems he's moving her way, and nods.

Turail has arrived.

Kae's attention has been caught mostly by the introductions going on across the way, as it occurs to her that she's never actually -seen- a Kandori princess dispite her being, well, Kandori. However, as Eglantine arrives nearby she looks the the woman and smiles politely. Given that she is involved in plucking a soft melody from her harp, she is not quite able to rise and curtsey.

Durnik has arrived.

Still addressing Demonder, Deleamar chuckles ruefully. The humor does not touch his eyes, though. "Well, cousin, I feel stupider for just coming here. All this high-blooded pompousity and falsness if making me sick. If you will exuse me, I am going to go talk with the 'riff-raff.' I find they make better conversationalists then Nobles." At that, he turns on his heel and moves to where Kae is playing softly.

Corod when it appears it is alright for the talking to begin again, he starts up the conversation with Rio again. "Indeed, the last time we met was not exactly...cheery. I've tried to stop them, though." He says, staring at the painting.

Cronus has arrived.

Rudra has arrived.

Rudra arrives with Cronus.

Mouse is, of course, only between Thorpe and his lord very briefly, and she ignores the look he gives her. Just passing through, after all. She spots someone she knows and detours toward her. Look out, Rio Sedai, the transformed street rat has seen you.

Theowyn nods politely to Nevin, his eyes falling on Elyse and the the others of their group. A brief amused look takes to his features, though the Tower Trained Warder takes to those within. A few frowns come from that action, but barely visible.

Methos has arrived.

Taylon moves to stand next to Eglantine, "I feel a bit out of place here, how about you?" he asks.

Gail suddenly stops in her examination of the painting, clucks her tongue, and stands up straight again. She gives a slight shake to her head and turns about. She curtseys to the Aes Sedai slightly and drifts away into the crowd, looking at the faces around her again.

"Do enjoy, Cousin," Demonder tells Deleamar as he heads off toward the entertainment. The young Lord is left to fend for himself, which could be a good thing. From a distance he watches the Prince, pondering where the drinks are.

Rik stands with Reynard by the entrance, nominally at alert, but actually speaking in undertones to each other. Rik nods to Cronus as he arrives, though his eyes seem move on their own through the crowd.

Thorpe Moves foreward awaiting his lords pleasure to introduce him to the princess

Rio nods as Corod speaks. "What incident was this? I'm afraid that it has slipped my memory?" She also turns back toward the painting, idly studying it along with Gail.

Eglantine nods to Deleamar, when he comes nearby, but very cautiously. She smiles to Taylon and nods, face relieved. Very softly, "I'm afraid, so."

Cherise turns back to speak wth Durnik. She mutters to Durnik, "... have... the glances spared... my... have not... But I expected..."

Methos stands mutely behind Durnik, his eyes scanning the room intently.

Kyriele glances around again, then pauses as she notes the Aes Sedai. Her eyes narrowing briefly, she nonetheless does not seem to bear any hatred towards her, and yet... as her gaze flits about the hall again, she catches sight of a figure in green that most certainly seems familiar...

Lelldorin sits in a corner, his deep blue eyes scanning the room. More often that not, his gaze is fixed on a conversation between Durnik and Cherise.

Elyse's voice is rich with apparent training, and notably soprano. She issues forth further cordiality on a silver-tongue, "I doubt that anything remiss should come to my attention, Lord Barydar," she offers a charming smile, "I have heard nothing but an esteemed reptutation to give me cause to speculate nothing short of a truly enjoyable evening. I thank you, and Kandor thanks you." She tilts her head a bit, receiving others who wish to be introduced to her, but her vacant glazed over look remains, as those blue eyes fall on some distant and unrecognized spot ahead of her, unseeing. Her smile is then offered to Darayn, and she inclines her head as she greets him with that same charming smile.

Taylon chuckles a bit. "All this, pomp and circumstance... Princess Elyse is just as normal as you or I, I bet she wishes everyone would treat her that way. Being a countess you must experiance at least a bit of this."

Finding a very full room when he finally makes his arrival, the Duke of Roesone, Lord Turail steps about 5 paces aside from the door and scans the room for others of his house, and of course, for the host of the party.

Lelldorin looks up slightly, noting the entrance of Duke Turail, his cousin. His expression is unreadable, but he makes no move to greet him.

Reynard nods to Rik, He mutters to Rik, "... but... results... job... be... point of..."

Mouse, as usual, doesn't bother with politeness. As she comes up beside Rio, she reaches out to tug lightly at the woman's skirt, as if she has a right to expect the Sedai's attention.

Cronus glances about and with all the people, he signals Rudra out. He gives a respectful nod to Durnik, before scanning the room debating on who to mingle with considering his rescent resignation from the guard. Carrying himself proudly, he examines the room with his brown eyes that remain on nothing for long.

Rudra obeys his masters bidding and maneavers out taking up post outside to await his Master

Rudely jabbing his elbow into the ribs of those in his way, Deleamar finally wades through the mass to Kae. "Pardon me, miss, but I couldn't help but notice how well you play the harp."

Rudra goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Rudra has left.

Durnik nods slowly to Cherise, he seems painfully concious of the looks and gazes of those around him.

Eglantine flushes slightly, shaking her head to Taylon. "I... am not very accustomed to this." She debates an explanation, but for only a moment. Instead, "I hope that you are enjoying it?"

Durnik mutters to Cherise, "... brought this... Cherise. It... I... bring such..."

Nevin moves aside so Elyse can greet Darayn, and tries briefly, and unsuccessfully, to scan for Eglantine as he turns to Lady Alianthe. "Welcome, my Lady. You are most welcome here."

Rio looks down as there is a tug on her tulle skirt, the soft material wrinkling badly under the tight fingers. She blinks, "Mouse?"

Spotting Nevin with the First Prince and the Princess of Kandor, Turail starts to weave his way through the room in that direction to pay his respects.

Kae begins to hum quietly along with her music, seemingly content to sit there quietly by the hearth. Even if her contributions to the atmosphere seem to be for the most part ignored, she continues to play quietly. Her gaze lifts to Deleamar as he approaches, she tilting her head slightly as her emerald eyes regard him. She smiles politely.

Alwyne turns her attention back to those closest to her, blinking at the sight of the young girl tugging at the Aes Sedai's skirts.

Rik shrugs to Reynard and asks in low tones, He mutters to Reynard, "... in... Queen's... Too... your ribs... no..."

Mouse nods, letting the skirt go and shrugging over the wrinkles. She looks up at Rio and whispers, "Talk to you?"

Kyriele can't hear what Rio says, of course, but she does seem to recognise the figure in green now.... Looking up to the Aes Sedai, a slight frown creases her features momentarily before she makes her way towards the two, her attention seemingly caught by them, now.

Corod swallows. He mutters to Rio, "... lent some..."

Stopping before the Elyse, Darayn effects a percise bow mirrored on his left by Lorilei's exquisite curtsey. As the pair rise, darayn's deep voice smoothly intones, "I am Darayn Seti, Lord of House Hune Seated here in Caemlyn." Indicating Lorilei at his side he continues, "And this is Lorilei Andursell, also of this city. It is our great pleasure to present ourselves to you, Pricess." So said, the pair again bow, and curtsey...rising again to stand silently before Elyse.

Although The First Prince holds Elyse's escort, he still obviously has not taken into account all the matters of leading the blind Princess. He fails in noting those that approach and offer greeting, for one, though at least she may feel him bow slightly in response. Theowyn turns to Elyse, briefly before he sets his eyes on Darayn. "Lord Seti. A pleasure." He eyes the woman at his side with a raised eyebrow, before turning to Elyse once more.

Rio lowers herself a bit so that she is more at an eye level with the child, the skirt of her ballgown spreading out on the floor around her in a neat circle. She mutters to Mouse, "... it, Mouse? This... really..."

Alianthe returns the greeting with a smile and gushing words. "My pleasure to be here, truly! Oh, my, your arrangements are simply splendid; I feel so honored that all these people should come and greet her Highness!" She lets loose with a girlish giggle, gazing around with dewy eyes.

Demonder finds Turail making his entrance. With a slight nod, more to himself, he heads the way toward the visitting Duke within the room. He carefully avoids Durnik, attempting to avoid the scene that was shown a few days ago within the common room. He also spots Lord Darayn, giving further purpose in his travels in that general direction, but soon enough he is stopped by a group of young noble Ladies. Demonder can't help but offer one of those charming smiles that he's known for, bowing pleasantly to both as he engages in a conversation.

Kyriele skirts around several others who are in her way without actually seeing them, and she moves still closer to Rio and Mouse.

Cronus spies his work in progress, and yet doesn't move toward it but to Lord Nevin. Maneavering his way through the crowd with his appearence worthy of any formal function despite the cheap apparel. Once near, he offers a bow to the lord. Then when all the commotion around Nevin is at a minimal, he decides it safe to speak, "Good eve, my lord."

Thorpe scans the crowd while looming at Nevins shoulder, nothing escapes his attentions.

Eglantine's eyes search for Nevin as well, but she remains where she is, manner uncertain.

"Oh, where are my manners?" Deleamar thinks over that question a moment. "That's right, I exhausted them on my family. I am Deleamar Roesone." He inclines his head to Kae. "Could I have the honor of your name?"

Daric turns his attention away from the greetings in progress, lidded eyes looking around the room for Barydar servants. Already, the blond Roesone lord is thirsty it seems.

Mouse shrugs in response to whatever Rio's just sad to her and lowers her own voice still more. Considering that she was already whispering, her voice now disappears entirely, unheard but by the woman she addresses.

Cherise snags a glass of white wine from a passing servant and frowns slightly as she overhears an introduction to the princess. She mutters to Durnik, "Please... apologizing,... transpires.."

Nevin grins in reaction to Alianthe's reply. "It is heartwarming to know that we have pleased our guests. We are delighted to have you all here."

Thorpe standing to attention and snaping a salute to Nevin, he moves like a leapord towards Eglantine's position, quick ground eating strides take him across the distance quickly.

Reynard shakes his head in amusement, He mutters to Rik, "... seeing..."

Durnik looks around trying to find someplace that's open to sit down.....

Rio looks at the child she speaks to with surprise and then slowly nods her head. She mutters to Mouse, "I will attend... the morning,... and... will..." She gives the girl a fond smile before she rise back to her feet, "Now, back to your duties."

Duke Roesone's winding progress through the room towards the group containing host and royalty is unhurried. He seems merely to stroll, taking in the atmosphere of the party, and admiring the architecture of Barydar's Great Hall.

The corners of the gleewoman's lips twitch faintly upward with amusement as Deleamar speaks. "Kaerradia Ser'essy." she replies, "But please, my Lord, Kae is fine." she replies. Her gaze flicks from the Lord to a chair nearby and back again in a rather obvious unspoken question.

Her hand remains rather tightly on Theowyn's arm, her escort. The crowd making her a little nervous, but only those who would spy the grip on Theowyn's arm my suspect. Her demeanour is all too easy and charming and she nods to Darayn, "Peace favour you, Lord Hune, Mistress Andursell. A please to make your acquaintances." She then turns to politely acknowlege yet another introduction, smiling warmly and offering similar reserved but cordial sentiments. As Turail arrives to express pleasantries, she seems to brighten a little more, having already met Turail, and pleased to find a familiar voice amongst the drowning chatter.

Rik chuckles into his moustaches and nods, He mutters to Reynard, "... got... old man like... material." His tone is self-effacing and amused, perhaps jovial.

Kyriele finally stops not far from Rio and Mouse, then pauses as she notes a little of the exchange - the smile, at any rate. Then her eyes move back to Mouse.

Methos leans forward, whispering in Durnik's ear. He mutters to Durnik, "... there are... number... people who... not... to take... to..."

Young men and women in the indigo Barydar livery move about the room suppyling drinks.

Sev is also offered a glass of wine, which he takes with a smile and says something to the servant which makes the cupbearer smirk, trying to retain composure.

Eglantine smiles at Taylon, shaking her head.

Durnik looks over to the man he had not known was standing there....he looks around and then smiles slightly.

Mouse turns and starts away from Rio, only to run into Kyriele--thankfully not quite literally. She flickers a smile up at Kyriele, tilting her head slightly. Twitch, noting a scent he recognizes as one that usually accompanies food, lifts his head and focuses his wide green eyes on Kyriele.

Moving like a cat after a mouse, Thorpe winds his way through the crowd quickly and silently, finding eglantine he comes to attention before her!

Methos smiles back at Durnik, and leans back against the wall, flipping a gold coin in his hand.

Having obtained his goblet of Roesone wine, Daric now proceeds across the room towards the music area, where Kyriele stands. He places a gloved hand on the noblewoman's arm. "I will take care of this, cousin."

Durnik mutters to Methos, "... about... information... ascertain... be... good... determine where..."

Eglantine looks up at Thorpe, eyes widening, offering a smile after a moment. "Is something wrong?"

Sev glances at the painting, then stepping closer to look at it. To Alwyne or whomever's nearby, he says, "Ah, a charming effort it is, but I think it's not to my current taste, as such."

Kyriele smiles briefly to Mouse, then looks the child over again. "Light illumine.... What have you been up to, Mouse?" She doesn't mention the girl's apparent exchange with Rio Sedai yet...

Deleamar nods. "Don't mind if I do." Sitting down, he looks about the crowd before turning to look at this Kae. "I find these events so boring. Actually, they are amusing in a way. If you examine various Lords and Ladies carefully, you can tell who is having an affair, who is an alcoholic, and all sorts of other interesting tidbits."

Reynard chuckles again, He mutters to Rik, "If..."

Durnik nods over in Rik's direction....

Durnik mutters to Methos, "... a good..."

Taylon nods to Thorpe at his arrival.

Taking an offered glass of wine from one of the indigo livered servents in the room, Rio looks at Corod for a moment. "Much happens in the city, Sir. However, tonight both you and I are healthy and whole. Perhaps this is enough to toast the evening to?" And indeed, she lifts her glass slightly to the man she speaks to.

Thorpe shakes his head "no my Lady, My Lord Nevin request your prescence" offering his arm, he awaits her pleasue.

Alwyne glances idly at Sev. "Indeed?"

Mouse whispers back, "Light shine." She pauses, glancing around, then continues, "Been workin'." She watches as yet another servant passes by with a tray of wine held at a level that makes it easy for most guests to lift a glass from it. Except, of course, Mouse. Little Mouse, wrinkles her nose, then whispers to Kyriele, "Get me one?" pointing at the tray.

Kae can be seen to laugh softly at Deleamar's comments, her eyes twinkling amusedly as her nimble fingers continue to coax soft music from her harp. "Your eye must be more experienced than mine, my lord. Perhaps you might share some of your observations with me?" she asks, briefly eyeing a liveried servant as he passes with a tray laden with wine goblets.

Rik smirks to Reynard and says, He mutters to Reynard, "Give... from... it takes... to rise... command..."

Methos offers a brief nod, and moves away quietly. He moves over near a few other Guardsmen in the room. He nods to Rik and Reynard as he stops in front of them.

Finally reaching the group his stroll had cast him towards, Turail rasps in that trademark rough voice of his, "Peace Favor, Duke Barydar, Prince Theowyn... and Princess Elyse." Stone embraced blue eyes move between the three recieving his greeting, and then a sweeping yet casually elegant bow is offered to the three. The Duke of Roesone seems at ease.

Rik must have missed Durnik's nod, or else it's just too crowded for him to see across the room?

Durnik watches Methos go, then turns back to Cherise, and continues his search for a place to sit down, if she hasn't already found one.

Nevin nods to Cronus politely, turning from Alianthe for at least the moment. "Hello, Cronus. Glad you could make it."

Kyriele pauses a moment. "Are you sure, Mouse?" she asks quietly. "It is wine..."

Sev nods, "Aye, it's the nuance I crave, though the topic seems popular these days."

Reynard pauses in his conversation to salute Methos as he approaches them.

Cherise has..she is reasonably comfortable upon the leather couch, sipping her wine and glancing about.

Rik salutes Methos as well, standing smartly to attention.

Cherise takes a seat on the Leather Couch.

Introductory proprieties fulfilled, Darayn leads Lorilei a few steps away from the Princess and her escort, finding a relatively uninhabited space with which to take a moment and survey the crowd while holding a bit of quiet converse. Deftly liberating a pair of goblets from a passing tray, Darayn presents one to Lorilei, who nods in gracious acknowledgement of the gift, "My thanks, Darayn." she says breathily, eyes tracking the Hune Lord over the rim of the goblet as she takes a rather heavy drink of its contents, a motion mirrored by Darayn, save the attention. His eyes seem to be wandering the room in search of a particular participant.

Durnik takes a seat on the Leather Couch.

Corod smiles at Rio. "Nice little girl. I've seen her around the Inn."

Durnik moves over to join Cherise on the Leather Couch.

Nevin hears Turail just after he has spoken to Cronus, and turns to greet the Duke. "Welcome, Lord Turail, as one Duke to another. An honor, sir."

"I, for one, am delighted to be here," Alianthe responds glibly to Nevin. Turning her attention to Cronus, she exclaims, "Oh, who is this? Please, do introduce us!"

Methos offers a brief salute, and manages a quiet. "At ease."

Mouse nods to Kyriele, whispering, "I know. 'S for m'sister." Did she just say ... sister? "Can't reach 'em," she finishes.

Thorpe shakes his head "no my Lady, My Lord Nevin request your prescence" offering his arm, he awaits her pleasue.

Alwyne nods absently in response to Sev's comment, apparently not taking much interest in his words, and joins the eddying crowds once more.

Deleamar hmms softly before pointing to a Lord and Lady who just arrived. "That Lady there, the one with that remarkably tacky red hat. She has been cheating on her husband for, oh, three months now. You can tell by the insincere way she clutches his arm. Very amusing, really, in my opinion Kae."

Durnik leans in to talk to Cherise

Durnik mutters to Cherise, "There are possibilities..."

Cronus nods to Nevin, "And I thank you for inviting me, my lord." his tone slightly embarrassed as the lady seems to have reined attention on him.

Durnik trails off in what he was saying as he looks out over the crowd.

"Duke Turail," Theowyn greets with a slight smile taking to form on his young features. Young, but aging fast. "A pleasure to see you here once more. Matters at House Roesone are well, I trust?" The question is brief, as he guides Elyse in direction Turail is standing.

"Kyriele?" Daric asks again, looking at his cousin. He looks down at Mouse. "What is the childs name, cousin? She is in danger, yes?"

Eglantine blinks at Thorpe, brighting. "Oh. Yes, of course." She smiles at Taylon, awkwardly, and she will follow Thorpe.

Taylon nods to Eglantine in understanding, "Well, find me if you run out of people to talk to." he says with his customary grin.

Rio nods to Corod, She mutters to Corod, "... urchin... in... help... seems... is... employment at least,... no..."

Lelldorin's eyes burn as he glares directly at a couple on a couch. A look of indisguised jealously is upon his face.

Reynard returns to his at ease position.

Rik stands at ease, asking "What news for the masses, Master of Sword?"

Kyriele nods after a moment, then does take a glass from one of the trays. After giving it to Mouse, she pauses again. "Sister?" she asks finally, uncertainty colouring her tone... and then she looks up as she hears someone else say her name. Looking up at Daric, confusion registers on her face before she glances back to the Aes Sedai. "Lord Daric, this is a friend of mine, Mouse," she says instead of addressing the issue brought up by Daric. "Mouse, this is Lord Daric of House Roesone..."

Kae quirks a brow, looking in the direction Deleamar indicates. A smile graces her lips once more, after a moment. "Quite an astute observation... what of that one?" she asks, lifting a hand to gesture toward an irritated-looking young noblewoman standing off in a corner fanning herself with rapid angry flicks of her wrist. The hand returns to join the other in plucking music from the harpstrings as Kae looks back to her Noble companion.

Demonder continues that conversation with the two noble ladies, though now is attempting the escape route. He does smile and nod a few times, offers a few charming smiles that he hopes will satisfy them. And then, with a polite bow, he is off to explore rest. Swiftly, he takes a glass of wine from a passing servant and begins to sip lightly, passing around a small gathering to head toward the next.

Methos offers a thin smile. "News for the masses? Im not sure what you mean, Rik."

Corod nods sadly. He mutters to Rio, "... many... me of... age." He seems surprised with himself, as though he hadn't expected to say that. Then he seems almost frightened.

Offering a suitable curtsey, Princess Elyse smiles warmly to Turail's greeting, "Peace favour your sword, Duke Turail. A pleasure to find you were able to attend." Sohai remains nearby, but not close wnough to be intrudingon the conversation. He eyes seem to linger upon Kae, the Kandori strumming the harp.

As Eglantine takes his arm he begins to make his way slowley through the crowd back towards Lord Nevin, allowing Eglantine time to greet the guests as they make their way towards the Princess.

Alwyne notices that Demonder is free, and makes her way over to him.

Mouse nods to Kyriele, then flickers a frown at Daric. Why would she be in danger? Well ... this time? She shrugs, though, and turns back to Kyriele. "Sister," she whispers, "Wanna meet 'er?" Without waiting for a response, she turns to move across the room again, expecting that Kyriele will follow ... or not, as she wishes.

Durnik leans in to talk to Cherise

Durnik mutters to Cherise, "... here...."

"That's easy. She is jealous of because of..that man." Deleamar points to an elegantly dressed, black haired nobleman who is in deep conversation with a buxom noblewoman. "See the guarded looks she casts them? That stare? As they say, if looks could kill, that woman would be dead."

She may be sitting down, but actually this affords Cherise a different view of the room, and in some ways a more advantageous one. She nods absently to whatever it is that Durnik has spoken and sighs softly..yes, it's that corner of the room where her cousin sits, looking quite..peeved. Oh why doesn't he mingle? She quickly looks elsewhere..brows furrowed.

Durnik trails off in what he was saying as he looks out over the crowd.

Rik shrugs off-handedly, "Just making conversation, sir. Anything of interest to the likes of us?" he refers to Reynard and himself, clearly.

Rio offers Corod a sympathic smiles. "I know how you feel." she offers and then takes a sip of the red wine she had taken from the tray a few moments before.

Kyriele looks around the hall a little helplessly, then turns back to Daric. Perhaps there is something he could do to help when it comes to Aes Sedai leading little children astray? She turns and follows Mouse, though.

Eglantine offers smiles here and there, but she pauses little in moving toward Nevin.

Daric gestures to Mouse the hand holding his wine goblet. "Of course. Before you go to your sister, may I do something for your benefit, child?" He smiles gently, a priests gentle smile as always.

Durnik watches Theowyn and Elyse for a very long moment before turning to Cherise and putting a hand gently on her leg to gain her attention.

Mouse stops and turns to this man she doesn't know, impatience flickering across her face. The cat on her shoulder, of course, picks up on the emotion and flattens his ears, narrowing his eyes at Daric. "Yes?" Mouse whispers.

Taylon waves a servant over, and takes a glass of wine from her.

Durnik mutters to Cherise, "Excuse... moment,... myself as... demands."

Methos nods in understanding, holding his hands out apoligetically. "Ah, forgive me. I have had alot on my mind as of late."

Kae mms thoughtfully, nodding a bit at Deleamar's assessment. "And what of.. that guardsman looking this way?" she inquires, referring to Sohai without looking at him. If there's one thing Kae is, it's observant. Usually.

"Thank you Lord Nevin, for your kind invitation to attend." Turail glances around the room, "It seems Barydar is studied in the art of holding a social event." As Theowyn addresses him, his eyes turn that direction, "Yes, your Highness, things at Roesone go well enough for the times." Doubtless the prince will know what sort of difficulties attend Noble houses in a country verging on war. He smiles to the Kandori Princess, an eye returning to Theowyn for just a moment carrying an 'I might have known you would find the Princess of interest' look with slight amusement. "Thank you Princess. I am pleased also to have the opportunity to speak with you again."

Seeing the approach of the seemingly young woman, Demonder bows to Alwyne. There's a brief hesitation, his eyes following the trace of her features, before he reaches a conclusion. "Aes Sedai. I am Lord Demonder Roesone," he introduces himself.

Sev threads his way over towardd Darayn, and gives a bow.

Kyriele looks towards Daric questioningly, then back to Mouse...

Daric however does mention Rio's discussion with Mouse. Extending a hand a few inches in the air before Mouse's head he speaks in a clear voice. "By the purity of the Light, the goodness of the Creator and the will of your soul; I abjure you, child, of all sins and curses placed upon you by the Grey Witch of Caemlyn. Live free of witchcraft and in the warmth of the Light."

Deleamar puts a finger to his lips, and taps them gently. "That guardsman is hard to read, actually. Curiousity, maybe?"

Durnik stands and straightens his clothing....he begins weaving his way through the crowd, sparing one last smile for Cherise before he's momentarily lost to sight, heading towards Theowyn and Elyse.

Reaching lord Nevin, Thorpe takes Eglantines arm and gives it to Nevin

Mouse snorts, rolls her eyes, and whispers, "Will you try to kill Twitch now, too?" Without waiting for a response, she turns her back and makes her way through the crowd.

Rik nods to Methos, his formal demeanor stifling a sympathetic chuckle, "A lot for any man, sir, and more for those that lead others. Things are hot enough, and just this night I saw a pair of Aielmen on a rooftop opposite the palace. When are we going to send them packing, sir?" ( Mind you they must have wanted to be seen...)

Kyriele looks somewhat startled at Mouse's reaction, and then very worried. Looking apologetically in Daric's direction, she follows Mouse....

Alwyne blinks as the crowds part and she finds herself face to face with Demonder. She smiles slightly at his address. "Alwyne Marathelle...a smaller branch of House Hune, actually," she murmurs. "I've wanted to meet the man who is soon to marry my cousin."

Nevin makes a brief bow to Duke Turail as the Roesone High Seat turns to Prince Theowyn, and turns himself to Eglantine, nodding his thanks to Thorpe. "I think that we were separated by the crowd. But things seem to be going well."

Taylon spies Mouse from across the room, and watches her turn her pack on Daric. With a chuckle he thinks, "Good girl."

Cherise avails herself of the wine in her hand, draining at least half of it. Not Roesone, but it will do the trick.

Noting the arrival of his diminutive Cousin, Darayn subtlely nudges Lorilei to direct her attention on their news conversant, "Ah, Cousin Sev." Darayn begins smoothly, Lorilei content to simply observe the man who of a height with her, "I had heard you were once again within Caemlyn. It is most fortuitous to meet you in this throng," he dds in greeting, bowing slightly from the waist.

Methos holds his hands out, his lack of formality disarming. "All I know is they can not enter the palace. More I do not know."

Lelldorin still sits in the corner, brooding as it were. Occasionally, he stops a servant, drinking wine quite quickly.

Eglantine blinks at Thorpe, at the arm transfer, but smiles. She nods uncertainly to Nevin, with a few brief quiet words. She mutters to Nevin, "I... know... to follow."

Gail hangs back from the crowd a bit, looking on, a bit wistfully now. She does seem to be regarding a few people in the hall intently, one could almost say 'studying' them. She seems to be especially drawn to watching the Kandori princess, and... Sev?

Cronus turns from the lady and lord, giving a hesitant but sharp bow to Theowyn. He may no longer be a guard but he still respects the man despite the akward situation

Kae merely smiles to Deleamar, the melody she plays changing subtly as it passes into another song, this one a bit more lively. "Curiosity? You think? Why would he find me curious?" she inquires. Not that it is really unheard of for _anyone_ to find a female gleeman less than curious.

Thorpe nods to Nevin, and moves to stand guard near the stair caseat attention

Durnik approaches Theowyn and Elyse, but holds himself far enough back not to intrude on the conversations they are now holding with more important nobles, but close enough to be noticed.

Sev gives a bow to the lady with Darayn and greets him, "And you as well, Darayn. I hope you've not worn out your boots with walking, yourself. Light Shine. And speaking of which, I don't believe I've met your companion..."

Demonder manages a pleased smile, reaching to take Alwyne's hand to set a kiss upon the back, before releasing it back to her. "Lady Alwyne, many thanks." He notes the lack of response to his use of title, nor denial. "I do look forward to the wedding, though we are by right already married." Demonder shrugs a hint. "A formal wedding would be a benefit, especially in these questionable times."

Nevin murmurs something to Eglantine.

Rik nods again to Methos. He's not old enough to have fought them before, but he'd old enough to remember the Aiel War, and it's clearly got him on edge. "That's as much as I was told as well, sir, and words to use with them. As if words ever stopped them before."

Daric looks vaguely disappointed at the reaction he receives. His gaze swings unerringly towards Taylon as he chuckles. He fixes the man with his blue eyes, in an even stare.

After checking to make certain that Elyse is quite all right with Theowyn, Alianthe decides to head into the crowd, stopping a servingman on the way and taking a glass of wine for her rather dry throat. Sipping from it, she withdraws to the walls for the nonce to regain her bearings and assess the crowd.

From the balcony above, Sine comes into the corridor from the direction of the balcony to the west.

From the balcony above, Sine has arrived.

Elyse dips her head a bit, the diadem stones from her tiara dangling a moment with the motion, "A pleasure, indeed, Duke Turail. I have so enjoyed the gifts of wine and brandy you have been so gracious to offer. Andor's court has been most gracious of our expected arrival, indeed." Oops. Yes, unexpected. A sigiless coach arriving with nearly fifty men during such a politically tense time. What could that have been about anyway? Sohai, finally turns his gaze away from Kae, and back to Elyse, and those around her.

Nevin mutters to Eglantine, "... you... you... but... if... those... we..."

Taylon's smile only widdens as he notices Daric's stare. He raises his glass to the man as if to say, "A good evening to you dear sir." and takes a sip, still chuckeling.

Corod is standing, "people watching." He is studying the people around him, sipping a drink grabbed off of a tray.

Alwyne nods. "Of course," she says to Demonder. "Especially given these questionable times."

Methos sniffs. "While I was not fighting at the time, I have been into the waste with my band. I can handle the Aiel if the need calls for it."

Eglantine looks slightly dismayed, speaking softly to Nevin.

Deleamar looks at Kae. "Well, you are quite a lovely young woman Miss Kae." He leans back in his chair. "I'm sure you will be able to figure this one out for yourself." He then smiles. "Why indeed?"

Mouse slips through the crowd, managing to make it through with few noticing her passage. She's good at this, after all. People take notice, however, when she stops, suddenly, staring at the Princess Elsye (etc., etc.)'s back.

Theowyn's trained eyes are all too aware of Cronus and the approaching Durnik, but he continues to address Turail with the next of his words. "The Palace is on the strickest of guards, but do be assured that the nobility is allowed within to their wills. I do apologize for matters set otherwise in the past. It was unfortunate." Theowyn's eyes show amusement, but that is brief, before he finally looks to Durnik and Cronus. "Master Cronus," a slight nod. "Lord Durnik." The bow is appropriate for Durnik's noble title.

Rezna has arrived.

Maricca has arrived.

Maricca arrives with Rezna.

Nevin nods to Eglantine with a gentle smile, hoping to reassure her. "Yes, of course."

From the balcony above, Sine looks down at the Hall. Will you look at that... She gathers her courage and descends the stairs on _very_ quiet feet.

From the balcony above, Sine descends the grand staircase and goes down to the Great Hall below.

From the balcony above, Sine has left.

Sine ascends the grand staircase from the Great Hall below.

Sine has arrived.

Rio gives a nod to those that she had been speaking to and departs from the painting, allowing others to have a view of it should they desire. She wends her way through the crowd toward the guests of honor, intending no doubt to pay her respects.

Kyriele stops as Mouse does, then looks to the group Mouse has just stopped before, then she looks down at Mouse again, waiting to see what the girl will do now.

Rezna comes strolling in wife holding on to one arm as she is apt to do. He carries a large crossbow over his shoulder. It is not loaded though

Cherise finshes her wine in short order and rises from her seat in search of another, no doubt. She jostles a portly gentlemen who unfortunately is quite inebriated, it would seem, for he possessively drapes his arm about her in a tight embrace. "Well well what have we here? A rose amonng so many thorns, my dear?"

Cherise attempts to play along with him for a minute or two. "So my father has always said," she smirks.

Eglantine smiles at Nevin, relieved, and goes quiet, the better to let him greet his guests.

Rik nods again, letting himself be assured a bit, "Yes sir, of course. Do you know how many are in the city? On rooftops? Hiding about? It's hard to count them that way. They move like bandits and no mistake."

Maricca clings to her husband as they enter and scans the room.

Demonder shrugs a shoulder at Alwyne's words. "It was all avoidable, in my opinion. But yes, matters are growing worst it seems. I fear for House Hune economy, at least half based on export of grains to Cairhien. But for now matters are well enough. Though already the difficulty has shown itself."

Kae actually blushes faintly at Lord Deleamar's compliment. It is faint, but visible dispite her tan. "Well, I am a fairly straight-forward person, my lord... I wouldn't think there is _much_ to be curious about. Would you?" she replies, after a moment. Her gaze wanders again toward a passing servant, briefly.

Lelldorin rises to his feet, making his way over to Cherise, who is in the grasp of a portly gentleman. His eyes flash.

Sine wanders, with a grin, looking for faces that she knows. Personally, that is. It's difficult not to know nearly all of these faces.

Corod studies the guests, looking and trying to commit to memory the way they are greeted. Court behavior is definitely not one of his strong points, but he supposes he'll have to get used to it.

Turail smiles briefly "Your own gift, Princess, was most kind, as well as your offer to allow visits from our family to yourself." His eyes move back to the Prince, though they do not flicker at the Prince's notice of Cronus and Durnik nearby. "That is comforting your Highness. There had been some concern over inaccessibility to be sure."

Mouse appears to just be staring at the Princess's back, the wine cup she finally managed to gain held carefully in one hand. She tilts her head slightly, eyes narrowing as she stares.

Methos again shrugs to Rik. "I have no way of knowing. Sadly, I have been spending much time in the palace that not."

Acknowledged by Theowyn, Durnik finally presents. "Your Highnesses." His greeting takes in both of them, as does his bow. He may no longer be Captain-General, but his knowledge of etiquette is still impeccable. "May the Light illumine you this fair evening." He ignores what is apparent in Theowyn's words and puts on a smile.

Nevin leads Eglantine into a pattern of circulating through the room, looking around in an effort to greet everyone.

Lelldorin stops in front of the large man. "Excuse me, sir."

Hey. There's Deleamar. Sine refrains from waving - it doesn't go with the dress. But she heads his way, smiling.

Deleamar shrugs. "Exuse me if I speak bluntly, Miss Kae, but you see all these noblewomen? All of them, caught up in their own self-import and worth." He barks a laugh. "If that watchman has any brains in that head, he would come over here and talk to you instead of any of these idiot noblewomen." That last statement causes no small share of hard looks in Deleamar's direction. "Pompous fools, all of them."

Gail wanders slightly through the crowds and ends up treading on Corod's feet, watching the notables in the crowd instead of where she is heading. She immediately apologizes. "I'm so very sorry, sir."

Cronus is too uncomfortable, he searches out the eyes of Theo, then Rio, Durnik and few others then moves out.

Rik's moustaches turn town a bit in disappointment, but he maintains the best formal face he can and he nods, taking in the news. "Yes, sir. Nothing we can do about it now, is there? Not breaking any laws as far as I've heard, apart from that boy?"

Darayn's mouth parts to speak, but before a word is uttered a woman's voice sounds forth, "I am Lorilei Andrusell, Lord Sev. It is my pleasure," she notes with particular emphasis, "to make your acquaintence." so spoken she extends a slender hand forward to the other Hune nobleman.

Alwyne tilts her head to one side at Demonder's comment. "How so?"

"M'ellis" the drunken man breathes as he leers into the flamehaired woman's face. Cherise colors instantly at the words and her eyes flash blue fire, As Lelldorin approaches, the man gives him a bleary look. "Leave me alone with my little rose here, willya?"

Twitch is still perched on Mouse's left shoulder, now cleaning his whiskers, since there's no one to glare at or to give him food. And he got bathed for this! And has to wear a collar?!

Sev smiles to Darayn, seemingly finding it hard to tear his eyes from the brightly-clad tableau around him.

Kyriele watches Mouse, still waiting to see what she's doing... but for the moment, her attention seems to be taken up with some other matter... some other worrying matter by the look on her face. But most likely it has to do with Mouse.

Deleamar's face lights up as he sees Sine. "Why, Miss Sine, you've come over to the peanut gallery, I see." He winks at her.

Sev bends over Lorilei's hand, properly kissing the hand lightly. "Sparkling to meet you, ml'ady."

Cronus goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Cronus has left.

Taylon chuckles in agreement with Deleamar's comment about the emence amount of pompess people in the room.

Kae remarks to Deleamar, with a smile, "And what makes you think that I too am not caught up in my own self-import and worth? After all, I am one of the few guests this evening actually getting paid to be here." she winks, turning her gaze to Sine as she approaches. She smiles to Sine, nodding politely as she continues to strum the gentle melody from her harp.

Eglantine smiles toward Sev, who was so kind the other day. She nods, but doesn't interrupt.

She doesn't know about Mouse behind her, how could she? And her attention seems more intent on the conversation of the nobles around her. She tilts her head more for her ear to face Theowyn at his comment, a worried furrow of brow but it is fleeting. Then that charming smile is meant for the direction of Durnik's voice, "Peace favour your sword . . . " her voice drifts quiet as she finds she doesn't have a name for a voice. Sohai eyes Mouse quietly, from behind and to the side of the couple, but does nothing to hinder her stare, for now.

Corod supresses a wince. "Quite alright, mistress."

Sine grins at Deleamar. "How're you? What do you think?" She grins at Kae, too, and offers, "I'm Sine."

Methos shakes his head. "No, I am afraid not. Perhaps trouble is not what the Aiel seek, guardsman. They are not savages, you know."

Gail gives a hearty laugh and shakes her head. "I fear I'm so entranced with all the to-do. So many new faces in this crowd. All so beautiful. . . My name is Gail Vessarin. And you are?

Nevin leads Eglantine through the crowd, arriving beside Lady Kyriele. "Welcome, my lady. Have you met the Countess Eglantine?"

"Peace Favor your Sword, Lord Durnik," is Theowyn's response, the manner suddenly not hinting at much beyond politeness. With Turail's words he turns back to the Duke. "A gift?" he inquires with the briefest of smile. "You do hold me curious on the matter."

Mouse suddenly shakes her head, and resumes her progress through the crowd, stepping lightly around Sohai, on the opposite side from the Princess, though this is mroe by accident than planning. That way just happens to be easier to get through. Eventually, -finally-, she makes it back to where Kae sits, wine glass in hand.

Lorilei's answering laugh is a husky one as she withdraws her hand, "Oh, he /is/ a charming one." she notes to Darayn, who's expression is certainly amused, "Indeed," he replies wryly, noting Eglantine's presence just beyond his cousin, "It appears you have another woman to speak with, though...perhaps we will meet later?" he asks, nodding towards Eglantine.

Deleamar looks again at Kae. "I don't know, for sure. But I think I make a healthy guess when I say you are not." Turning his attention to Sine, he shrugs. "I've been better. These gatherings always turn my stomach." He makes a gesture towards a overly pampered nobleman.

Eglantine looks up to Nevin. Someday she'll lose that surprised expression; she's already managed to suppress it to near-invisibility. Then a smile to Kyriele, and she curtsies, well enough.

Corod smiles when she laughs. "Yes, all this grandeur is a little...daunting. I'm Corod. Corod Heyh. Tell me, what do you do?"

"Would you mind if I rescued the lady, sir?" Lelldorin asks, at recieving no response from the portly fellow. He looks down at Cherise, in the man's grasp, and then back up at the man, his eyes sharp.

Rik blinks, as if not sure he heard Methos right. And though he's got foot-in-mouth disease, he's on good behavior tonight, so he thinks before replying, which is unusual for him. Which means anyone looking can see him bite back his words and instead ask, "How do you mean, sir?"

Demonder shrugs his shoulder to Alwyne, about exporting enough of his knowledge on the matter, if at all true. "Political tensions do offer curious results to the economy. At times countries flurry, at other times not so much."

Now Elyse has a name, and while Theowyn is occupied with Lord Turail, he speaks briefly with her in apology. "Your Highness, I am glad to see you out of the palace with the First Prince. However, it is a shame we had not the chance to meet before this...under better circumstances." He smiles, though the smile is no doubt lost on Elyse.

Gail says "I am a painter. I've done landscapes before but after the incident... well, let's just say that I'm much better off doing portraits now, shall we? And you, Master Heyh?"

Rio makes her way through the crowded room, standing near the line that is waiting to formally greet the guest of honor. She notes the presence of the Carhanian ambassador. "I'm surprised that they allowed you in with that...thing." She refers to the crossbow that is swung over his shoulder. "Tell me, do you intend to start shooting only aiel, but noblemen and women as well?"

Sev nods to Darayn, with a smile for the lady as well. "We should, there's so much catching-up to do I fear I should have deprived every goose of its quills from here to Whitebridge, were I to have to send letters. Peace, then, cousin."

Maricca takes a drink from the pasing maid she is quite uncomfortable in gathersing this large. Tuging on her husbands arm "Well Rezna what do we need to do?"

Sine looks surprised, not getting it. She asks Deleamar, "Howcome? It's _pretty_."

Kyriele only seems to notice Mouse for the time being... and now Kae. Looking the gleewoman over slowly, she then looks down again to Mouse for confirmation. "Your sister?" she asks quietly.

Alwyne murmurs in response to Demonder, "That is true. And I suppose some would say these polical tensions have caused a good amount of flurrying recently."

Kae's smile lingers as she regards Sine, pausing but a moment to see if Deleamar will see fit to introduce her or if she shall have to introduce herself. Since he moves on without doing so, she replies, "Kae... good to meet you, my lady." Her gaze wanders back to Deleamar. Healthy guess? That remains to be seen. Her eyes finally alight upon Mouse as she approaches. "Ah! There you are... I was starting to think you'd slipped out the back." she remarks.

Methos shrugs in an offhand way, spinning a coin in his hand. "They arent savages, Rik. They are jus different."

Elyse smiles shyly, colour coming to her cheeks and she murmurs, "Twas a trinket of my appreciation for Duke Turail's gracious company, Your Highness," an attempt of an explanation. Her head tilts to hear Durnik, and there is recognition and . . . regret in her expression, as she answers Durnik, "Good, Sirrah, I regret is as well. Perhaps we may have further opportunity to meet and speak anon?"

Sine grins. "Pleased to meet you." And, softer, "I'm not a Lady." In case it should matter.

Demonder moves a little forward toward Alyne, his eyebrow raised in inquiry. The words are a near whisper. "I had stayed within the Tower for about a year, I did match my guess at the look of an Aes Sedai appropriately?"

Rezna looks to RIo...did the witch say something? "As interesting an idea as that sounds Rio Sedai, I have no intention of shooting anyone. I have the right to protect my wife. Now if you will excuse me." That said he heads to some other place where the smell of the Aiel on Rio is not so...repugnant to him. And of course he takes his wife along with. Nothing to say to her it would seem

Deleamar doesn't seem to realize he didn't make introductions, or he just doesn't care. "It's all of these so called nobles, Sine. That is all. If they were truely noble, they would spend their money on better things then this."

Corod wonders if he should ask about the incident...but decides against it. He seems to prepare himself for something said many times before. His voice changes, becomes grandiose. "I am the Court Magician to the Royal Court of Camelyn, Andor." His voice becomes normal again. "But that sounds so stuffy." He smiles.

Alianthe emerges from her little self-imposed exile by the wall and boldly ventures forth where no young blond Kandori Lady-in-Waiting of Basaru has ventured before. Lingering near the cluster of the high-and-mighty (not that there are many who -aren't-, here), she sights the Cairhienin ambassador and his wife. Her face lights up and she makes her way over to them. "Light Illumine, Lord Rezna, ..." She trails off in confusion, not having had the opportunity to learn the lady's name before. The lady -had- exited rather hastily, after all.

Mouse flickers a smile at Kae, gesturing at the crowd behind her. "I was starting to think I should," she whispers, then looks up at Kyriele, who did, indeed, follow her. She nods, gesturing to Kae now. "My sister," she whispers, "Kae. Kae, this is Kyriele, a friend." Lady Kyriele Roesone, in fact, but Mouse has never called her that and likely never will, so why start now? Instead, she turns to study the Princess Elyse for a moment, and then back again to study Kae.

Cherise looks at Lelldorin and grins wryly, "Well, since you've come out of your corner..perhaps you might find this gentleman another glass of whatever it is he's been drinking, hmm?'

Indeed the portly older man, Saldaean by his features, lights up at the prospect of another free drink. Oh yes--he may very well take that over this redhead--they're notorious troublemakers anyway. "Bring the wine, then you get the girl!" he remarks loudly to Lelldorin.

Eglantine's brow furrows briefly, but then her face smooths, pleasantly bland.

Durnik ducks his head respectfully to Elyse. "If that is your wish, I shall see you out at the palace, at my first available opportunity?" A respectful question, especially given Elyse's company.

Rik nods slowly, as if accepting that only because of the source. Not that he's talked to one himself. He values his life, if not a great deal, and he's heard enough stories to make even him think twice or more before approaching one of them himself. "Different, yes sir. So does anyone know why they've come?"

Deleamar smiles wryly as Kyriele follows Mouse to their small group. "Cousing Kyriele. So nice of you to join us."

Murmurring softly into Lorilei's ear Darayn turns away from the woman to move in the direction of the foregathered royalty as Lorilei likewise turns away and heads toward a hopefully unoccupied corner of the crowded room to sip quietly from her goblet of wine.

Sev comes nearer to Deleamar, having missed eglantineand seeing by the reactions of those around him that he's on about something.

Alwyne arches an eyebrow at Demonder. "That would depend, my lord, on whether you feel yourself appropriate in asking."

A raspy chuckle emanates from Turail at Elyse's characterization of the expensive Kandori gemstone brooch, which was her gift, as a 'trinket'. "I dareay Princess, your trinket makes the favor of my company seem a pale gift indeed." He glances at Theowyn and then turns slightly, "Lord Kasagara. Peace Favor."

Sine looks in the direction from which Kyriele came, face slightly worried, and then looks back to Deleamar.

Taylon plays with his glass a bit.

Rio watches Renza and his wife depart, a small amused smile on her face. She does glance at the many guards that attend in the wings of the reception, as if she wonders how much longer they will allow the ambassdor to wander around the party with a crossbow swung over his shoulder.

Theowyn offers another hinting smile to Turail's words. "Indeed, matters of the Palace have kept me occupied." He hears the related story, and offers a note of surprise by that quirk in his smile.

Lelldorin glares darkly at the Saldean, and even gives Cherise a softer, testy look. He turns, and deftly snatches a bottle of wine from a bewildered servant. "Here is your wine." He states bluntly.

Rezna thought he could escape into the crowd of big people from the blue eyed bubble head. Would seem he was wrong. He stops putting on his...best smile. "Good evening dear. have you met my wife?"

Only then does Kae's music stop, as she reaches out to accept the glass of wine from Mouse. "Thank you, little sister." she smiles fondly to the girl before lifting her emerald gaze to Kyriele. "A pleasure, my lady... a friend of young Mouse's is a friend of mine. I trust this evening finds you well?" She lifts the glass to her lips, sipping from it greatfully.

Gail gives a little laugh. "Oh my! What a wonderfully refreshing title. And what do you do there, sir?

Kyriele looks up, finally noticing the others nearby, then nods to Deleamar, slowly. "Light illumine, Lord Deleamar," is her main greeting, and then her attention goes back to Mouse. But it doesn't seem as if she has any active dislike of Deleamar, despite his known un-CoLish-sympathies. Looking back to Kae, she pauses. "It does, and you?" Her eyes go back to Mouse despite her words of only a moment ago.

Nevin hesitates, and then decides that Kyriele must not have heard him. He guides Eglantine back into the crowd.

"Does it now, Kyriele?" Deleamar seems unconvinced. Turning back to Sine, he shakes his head. "That is my point right there."

Maricca dips her head to Rio, she actually likes the woman even after the issues of the Aiel. She follows her husband closely and nods to the blue eyed one in recognitions "Yes we met the other night remember dear." she does not seem happy to be here.

Rezna seems to be looking for someone. His head bobs this way and that, trying to see around all the big people.

"If you are my cousin-in-law," Demonder states with a hinting grin, "Then perhaps I feel in the right. Though no matter, I believe my question has been answered, and my apologies for any offense."

Eglantine looks up to Nevin, uncertain, starts to speak, then just moves with him.

The Saldaean grabs the bottle greedily and literally shoves Cherise at her cousin. "And here is your woman!" he winks at Lelldorin. Cherise winces, not at the shoving, but definitely at what the man said. "I'm sorry, Lell.." she whispers as the man moves off.

Elyse inclines her head, half hearing Turail, but her attention politely on Durnik as she answers, "Of course, Sirrah," not having any other way to comfortably address him given her company, "At your convenience and if it is permissible by my most gracious hosts," meaning of course, Theowyn and Aislynn. Then the Princess tilts her head to offer her ear more to Turail, smiling with amusement at his comment before quietly inquiring, "Forgive me for asking, but I feel a bit parched . . . " hinting at a cordial request for a beverage.

Sine blinks. "Which? I missed it?" She glances into the crowd again, and steps closer to Deleamar.

Alianthe bubbles brightly, "Oh, yes, I met you, but I seem to have forgotten your name..." Her words trail off apologetically, as her eyes gain an overtone of embarrassment and distress. If it -had- been mentioned, it likely would have flown through one ear and right out the other.

Rio gives Duke Nevin a nod as he and Eglantine near her. "Peace be upon you, both. I am glad that you extended an invitation to me, Duke Nevin. House Barydar is doing itself proud this evening."

Kataline has arrived.

Kae merely nods to Kyriele, taking another sip or two from her goblet before setting it on the floor by her chair and taking up her harp once more to begin a new song as she sits quietly in her chair.

Durnik turns to Turail, his piece said to Elyse...though he too looks for an instant at Theowyn before speaking to Turail. "The Light Guide you, Duke Roesone. I trust you are well this evening?" Durnik seems pleasant enough...now why would everyone be saying those awful, nasty things about him. A smile shows about his lips, though his eyes denote a wariness, especially being so close to Theowyn.

Deleamar chuckles. "It doesn't matter Sine. I am just a little grouchy today, is all. So, how are things with you? All is well, I hope."

Nevin smiles to Rio again, relaxing a little. "I am very glad that you came, Rio Sedai. I noticed that you were the first to take a close look at my new painting."

Corod strikes a pose. "In the the employ of our gracious Queen, I dazzle with my performance. I amaze with wonderous displays of magic. All sleight of hand." He takes out a large silver coin from a pocket inside his coat. "This is a normal coin, as you can see, go ahead look at it, that's enough." he jerks the coin back from where he had been displaying it, smiling. "You can't look at it for a long time because it's a magic coin, see? Just like this, it's magic." He gestures and the coin disappears from his hand. Another gesture and the coin is in his other hand. "Up one sleeve..." he says, while tilting his arm so the coin slides into his sleeve, "...and into my pocket." He reaches into a pocket in his coat, and pulls out the coin.

Eglantine brightens, smiling at Rio, recovering from the previous snub. "Hello." Softly. "Good evening."

Rezna finally spots the man he is looking for. He lets go of his wife's arm, leaving her with the bubble head. He himself heads for Prince Theowyn. A crossbow slung over one shoulder and a small oldish looking book tucked up under his arm. One of the advantages of being small is that you can get where you want to get despite large moving obstructions...which is likely how he views the vast majority of people here

Lelldorin catches Cherise, glaring icily at the Saldean's back. He looks down at her, his eyes softening, seemingly at a loss.

Rio smiles at Duke Nevin. "Indeed. A masterwork by the artist Raven is not something to miss. Although, I notice that among your guests is a painter of almost equal repuation. I wonder? Do you have her on retainer, or is she free to take commissions?"

Sev diverts towrd Eglantine, seeing her drift within social reach.

Alwyne shakes her head, expression mild. "I do not take offense, as none was meant," she replies.

Theowyn is a little surprised to be asked by Elyse, and that shows on his voice. "Why Princess, I hold no restrictions on whom you may see. Lord Durnik is no enemy of Andor, after-all." Theowyn does sound convinced at that. "The offering seems to be red and white wine on the trays. Do you have a preference, Princess?" The addressing of Elyse is bordering formal, but more so in friendlier terms. At the approach of Rezna, Theowyn nearly chuckles, watching the small Cairhien with that slinged crossbow. "Ambassador," he greets at his approach.

Mouse looks back at Kyriele for a moment then, while she has the advantage of a seated Kae, which puts her ear far closer to Mouse's level than it could otherwise ever be. She leans over and whispers something in Kae's ear.

Sine nods. "It's all right." Unworried again. "Don't you have a lot of friends at these things, anyway?"

"Mouse? Perhaps you will tell me what happened whilst I was... away from Caemlyn?" And so Kyriele was, if anyone noticed. As if many would, perhaps less nobles at that.

Gail gives a small chuckle and fans herself. "Excellent, Master Corod. Excellent. I'm very impressed. I'm sure Her Majesty will find you delightful."

Kataline slips in quietly, hardly dressed for such an event...but then, she's just here to do her job. Bearing a rather large sketchpad tucked under one arm, her only other possession, besides the clothes on her back, is a large pouch. Trying to be unobtrusive, she works her way around the crowd, halting as her attention is caught by the magnificent Ravan.

"Well enough, Lord Kasagara." The Duke of Roesone is not forthcoming in much detail, and shifts his weight slightly.

Eglantine blinks, curious. Painter? Glancing round, she catches sight of Sev, and smiles again, dipping her head.

Maricca glares at her husband as he leaves her side she excuses herself from the woman and heads, none to happy, in the direction she last saw him. He is right being small does make some things easier.

Kae's fingers pause over the strings, her musing pausing as well. After all, it would have been somewhat disturbing if the music had kept going when her hands stopped. She blinks oddly at Mouse, "A what?"

Nevin shakes his head. "Alas, no, I do not have her on retainer. Although the idea of offering her one is a good one, I will not do so before you extend such an offer, if you have one in mind."

Rezna gets right to it holding up the small leather bound book to the Prince. "I recently received this from Cairhien...It is a part of an inheritance I have come into. I opened it up to read it and discovered it was written in the Old Tongue...can't make heads nor tails of it." He pauses. "You were educated in the tower. Was the Old Tongue part of your training?"

Alianthe blinks forlornly as she is suddenly abandoned. Why is it that it always happens like that? She arrives, and everyone else leaves. With a sigh, she looks around for another vic--ah, stranger to meet.

Mouse gestures to her own shoulder. "That star," she whispers, then, "Saw the top."

Deleamar laughs at Sine's question, this time truely amused. "Oh, Sine, I have far more enemies here then friends, believe you me. Actually, it would be an insult to me to have most of the people here as friends."

Demonder's travel briefly to Thoewyn, Turail, and the others. "Indeed. I will not question you further on the matter. Do you have residence here in Caemlyn?"

Kae blinks again in Mouse's direction, seeming genuinely confused over whatever it is that Mouse is trying to express. Her gaze flicks toward Princess Elyse and then back to Mouse once more.

Durnik moves a bit closer to Turail, and lowers his voice...not secretively, but just so that the conversation is between the two men rather than the large group right around them.

Sev bows to Eglantine. "Excellency." He smiles.

Maricca catches up with her husband, she does not look like a very happy woman with him now. She dips her head to the princess tehn listens to her man regarding the book, she will deal with him leaving her alone later as she is interested in what it contains.

Durnik mutters to Turail, "... appreciated... I trust..."

Rio shakes her head and smiles at both Nevin and Eglantine, "No, I do not wish to tie Artisan Vessarin into my grasp. However, I am of a mind to commission a painting from her. I have a small collection that I've been building over the past few years and a work from her hand would greatly add to it." Rio seems to take a moment to look up at the lady on Nevin's arm, she has not had the pleasure of meeting her after all and there is a hint of curiousity written in Rio's dove gray eyes.

Mouse reaches out and this time taps Kae's shoulder. "Like you," she whispers, then turns and points at the Princess, as if that should explain it all.

Cherise shakes her head as she watches the Saldaean move off, then turns to speak with Lelldorin. "You don't seem to be enjoying yourself much, cousin." Hard as it was for her to call him that, it is necessary.

Eglantine asks softly, "I don't know who..." She stops and smiles at Sev, curtseying. "Lord Sev." Rather hesitant, not quite sure she's gotten the form of address right.

Kyriele pauses a moment, then half-kneels so she is more at a level with Mouse. Hearing mention of a star, however, she glances back to Rio, then Daric, then back to Mouse. Before she looks towards the Princess as Mouse points.

The surprise shows on Theowyn's expression, a book suddenly being shown to him. "I know some of the Old Tongue, enough to gain some appreciation for the language. Though if you wish me to read a book..." his voice trails, eyes touching on the book. Theowyn does reach for it. "I would likely have a horrid time of making through the pages, if at all. But I am certain a translator can be provided." He thinks, anyway.

For lack of anything better to do, Alianthe drifts over to the harpist. Being an amateur one herself, naturally she's interested in seeing a professional perform. Noting with some disappointment that the harpist isn't playing, she nevertheless lingers, glancing around the room before once again glancing at Kae. And glancing again. Blinking, she stares at Kae for a moment before shaking her head ever-so-slightly...

Sine looks around. "Well..." Hm. She looks around, but luckily doesn't know enough guests to comment on. She says confidently, "The Barydars are all nice." The ones that are here, at least.

Lelldorin's eyes wither at the word. "Should I be? You sure seem to be. Cousin."

Rezna nods and hands the thing over. "All I want to know...is what the damn thing is about."

Elyse smiles gratefully, "Red would be delightful, my Prince," she says softly, then offers greetings to those who had since approached while she remains on Theowyn's arm for escort. She says nothing about the comment of Theowyn needing to give her permission to see anyone.

Maricca leans to her husband and whispers somethings.

Nevin replies to Rio, "I'm not sure if you have met the newly-created Countess Eglantine?" However, inasmuch as Eglantine seems to be speaking with Lord Sev at the moment, this may remain the case briefly.

Alwyne nods in response to Demonder's question. "That I do." The flicker of a smile crosses her lips. "Though I would believe that some would find it odd, were you to offer, yourself."

Deleamar clears his throat. "I didn't mean to imply that they are not, Sine. Only that I don't have many friends among the nobility."

Daric eyes the gathering around the Kandori princess as he takes a large swallow of his wine. He looks none too enthusiastic at the sight of the Roesone house head fraternising with Theowyn and Durnik. He remains silent however, looking down at the back of his hand. Then he examines his goblet in detail, looking as if he is beginning to agree with Deleamar.

Maricca leans to your ear She mutters to Rezna, "... you really... was such a... show... yuo have that... valuable and... those creatures around we may... longer... safe." she is not happy with him.

Kataline's gray eyes linger over the Ravan painting before she sighs and moves on. Taking a seat, she observes the room for a moment, trying to get the feel before she actually sets anything down on paper.

Kae watches Mouse's hand as it moves to touch her shoulder, then looks back to Mouse once more. Unfortunately, she still doesn't seem to understand just what Mouse is speaking of. Her gaze lifts to Alianthe as the lady approaches, and she smiels to her politely before looking once more to Mouse, then to Kyriele, then to Mouse again.

Sev turns so that he and Eglantine may address Nevin and Rio. "Lord Nevin," he bows. "A fine occasion, yes?"

Eglantine looks to Nevin at her name, after she's curtseyed to Sev, rather apologetically. It is complicated, this matter of multiple conversations.

As the Prince's attention is grabbed by the Cairhienen Ambassador, Turail turns a little more to Durnik, and remarks in a voice not quite soft enough to be covered from the immediate group. "Of Course. Open and prompt communications are.. a political necessity, don't you think, Lord Kasagara?"

Maricca rolls her eyes at the husbands comment and mutters something bout men and stubborness.

Mouse sighs as Kae still doesn't understand, then follows her gaze to Alianthe. Ah! She came in bheind the Princess! She gestures to Alianthe to come closer, acting as if she expects the woman to obey, despite the fact she's only a scrawny little girl.

Sine nods. Consideringly. "Well, you can look at their clothes."

Darayn moves adeptly through the crowd, slowing as he nears the cluster which includes Caemlyn's former Captain-General. Standing perhaps a pace apart from this group Darayn assumes a comfortable positon of waiting, sipping idly from his goblet as he stands at his ease.

Durnik keeps his voice low still but doesn't seem to mind anyone overhearing their conversation.

Well..from good to bad..what else can this evening hold? Cherise pales and looks uncomfortable. She places a hand on Lelldorin's arm and states quietly, "It was I who forced things, Lelldorin..I blame myself for the heartache I've caused..and you *know* this is for the best.." Her eyes flick momentarily to the Duke as he speaks and her brow goes up as Darayn also comes into view near him.

Durnik's eyes tighten just slightly though, it seems he still does not like all of this innuendo floating around.

Alianthe blinks again, a smile twitching at the corner of her mouth before she moves to obey the little girl. Surreptitiously, she glances at Elyse, then at the gleewoman again. Surprisingly enough, she actually stays silent.

Rio notices that the lady is indeed distracted by the handsome swordsman. She seems amused as she looks upon Sev, he having stolen the countess away from the Duke. At least for this moment of time.

Demonder chuckles briefly at Alwyne's comment. "I would think not, I do have residence within the Hune manor," he notes, tone showing amusement as his eyes play on Alwyne's.

Twitch looks up at Kyriele from Mouse's shoulder, giving her a wide-eyed look and a grating, forlorn meow that he at least seems to think clearly asks 'Where's the food?'

Nevin nods to Sev with a small bow of his own. "I should like to think so. I trust that you know Rio Sedai, my lord?"

Kataline takes a seat on the elegant Ashwood Bench.

"What is so special about their clothes?" Deleamar really does seem curious. "It is just a show of their own horrid taste in fabric and a just as horrid waste of money."

Durnik mutters to Turail, "... it... Lord....Without such... and... knows... might..."

Theowyn addressing a passing servant, and takes a glass of red-wine. A tricky matter, in handing it to a woman that's blind, so he releases his escorting of hand of her to pass her the wine. One she has a hold of it, which he insures by guiding and glasping her hand, he returns to be at her side in escort. Theowyn takes no wine for himself. He tends to ignore Durnik from there on, believing Elyse has spoken well enough over the matter. "It is rather busy here..." he notes quietly. "And we've yet to make it much pass the entrance, Princess."

Kyriele looks at Twitch, now, before turning back to Mouse. "Is he hungry?" she asks, motioning towards the cat.

Mouse leans toward Alianthe to be sure the woman can hear her clearly over the noise of the party. She points back at the princess without looking and whispers to Alianthe, "She's got a mark. On her shoulder. Saw the top. A star?"

Corod nods politely to Gail. "Thank you. I hope she does. After all, I haven't really performed for the Queen yet."

Mouse turns and smiles up at Kyriele, nodding, as she finishes whispering to Alianthe. "Always," she whispers to the Lady, then turns back to wait for Alianthe's response.

Durnik smiles towards Turail

Sev nods, and bows to Rio.

Alianthe leans down in order to hear the little girl a bit better. "A star? Oh yes...all the Princesses have it," she confirms with a nod. "Why do you ask?"

Taylon takes a seat on the elegant Ashwood Bench.

Mouse points at Kae, looking at Alianthe. "She does," she whispers. "Saw it las' night."

The Duke -- the Barydar Duke, that is -- is indeed there, as is the Eilert Countess on his arm.

Eglantine stands quiet now, glancing from Sev to Rio. Smiling, though her stance is nervous.

Gail smiles. "Well, Master Corod, if you would like, I would be delighted to do a portrait of you... or perhaps an original composition... Yes, the man who makes the Queen smile. If you wish, that is."

Taylon turns to the young woman he is sharing a bench with, "How does the night find you?"

Lelldorin shakes Cherise's hand off. "No. This is not for the best." He exclaims, getting a little loud. "As soon as I leave, the others set it into motion. I will not be married off to some little blonde who I dont know just for an alliance or something." He seems unaware of his loudness.

Kae blinks a bit, startledly, finally figuring out just what is being discussed. She looks past Mouse toward where the princess stands across the room, eyes narrowing slightly in thought.

Alwyne nods in response to Demonder's comment. "If you were to do so in that capacity, then I would stand corrected." She smiles somewhat wryly. "There is much adjusting for some, still."

Elyse seems grateful for the drink, her head swimming with so many voices and trying to pick out the ones she recognizes. Carefully, gingerly, she sips from the goblet, managing mostly from years of practice not to get any on her. "Indeed, Prince Theowyn?"

Sine argues, "I think they're pretty." She glances down at her own. "Are mine bad?"

Rio nods. "Indeed, Sev and I have met a few times in the past." She glances back at the Duke and Countess as they stand together before her.

Kataline glances in startlement at the man sharing her bench and offers a tentative smile. Pulling out a piece of scrap paper, she writes, ~Well, thank you. And you?~

Taylon smiles, "Very well. I thought you looked as though you might want some company, My name is Taylon." he finishes holding out his hand.

Nevin inquires of Rio, "I gather that you are something of a connoisseur of fine art, then?"

Alianthe looks flabbergasted for a bare instant before regaining control of her features. "Really? Where is it?" she asks carefully, her tone indicating that she's not quite believing it.

Finding his way clear to obtain a glass of wine from a passing servant, Turail swirls the wine in the goblet a little, considering Durnik's last comment. "Many things, which should not, Lord Kasagara." The remark is mild, spoken in the Duke of Roesone's easily recognizable rasping voice.

Corod laughs. "A portrait? Of me?" He calms down. "I'm sorry, but right now the money in my pouch is lonely, but when my funds are a little higher, perhaps I will comission a painting." He seems amused at the concept of a painting of himself.

Mouse whispers, "Same place." She leans over to tap the place on Kae's shoulder where it would be, whispering, "There. Saw it."

Maricca agains leans to her husband She mutters to Rezna, "... the Sedai would she... of... tongue dear?"

Gail shakes her head. "Oh, you misunderstand me, Master Corod. I am willing to provide the service for free."

The Prince releases his hold on Elyse. "One moment, Princess, I will not leave your side. But allow me to examine this book," he tells her quietly before taking the book from Rezna. Tower Trained, yes, but certainly not one that had spent much time on the Old Tongue beyond what was necessary. He reads the title first, and then begins flipping through the pages. "It is a journal, written in the High Script of the Old Tongue," he informs Rezna, further contemplating the book. "This is before the Aiel War, the author being the Chief Advisor of Cairhien. The one that chopped down that tree..." his voice trails at the thought, as he hands the book back to Rezna. This summary by no means was quick, it took some great effort, the pauses between information were at length.

Kataline clasps Taylon's hand firmly and shakes. With her left hand, she writes, ~Kataline Halendel. I fear I'd be rather boring company...I can't talk.~

Luckily, no one seems to have noticed the fact that the musician is no longer being.. well.. musical. Kae finally returns her gaze to Mouse when the small finger taps her shoulder. Glancing toward the princess' lady in waiting, she regards Alianthe curiously.

Cherise frowns lightly at Lelldorin's outburst and flushes, "Marriage was /never/ spoken of, if you recall, Lelldorin," she states quietly in counterpoint to his loudness. "As nobles, our lives are pre-arranged, true..but things don't always have to be that bad.."

Corod raises his eyebrows. "Very possibly then. But where would I put it?" He muses to himself.

Demonder's eyes take a sadenned note, though it is brief. "Indeed, much to adjust with. Do you know many here, m'lady?"

Kellian has arrived.

Sohai finds Alianthe's expression enough to warrant his attention, but he remains near the Princess, merely watching Ali, Mouse, and Kae from across the room.

Elyse nods once to Theowyn's explanation of the absense of his arm, "It sounds facinating," she offers gently about the book.

Durnik nods slowly, a bit surprised at Lord Turail's response...but quickly moves on as he bows slightly. "Indeed Lord Turail, that is....very insightful. I hope we shall soon have the opportunity to speak more on this."

Kyriele looks from the princess to Kae to Mouse, but otherwise keeps silent.

Rezna ever so politely snatches the book back when he hears who the author is. "My sincerest thanks Prince Theowyn." He shoots his wife an agry look as she suggests something. "I now trust that woman as far as I can throw her dear." And that's not very far.

Taylon chukles a bit warmhearted, "Oh, is that so? And here I thought you were just difficult." he gives her a warm wink. "Well i would be glad to have your company, Lady Kataline." he says, emphasizing the title with a sweeping bow, at least as sweeping as he can manage sitting down.

Alianthe blinks rapidly for a few moments. "Oh," she says intelligently, not quite sure of how to take the situation. "Excuse me...what is your name?"

Rio nods to the Duke, "In some ways. I began to collect oil paintings when I was an accepted in the White Tower. I have a rare charcoal sketch of the first amyrlin raised from the Gray Ajah. It was created during the time when the ten nations had just been shattered and even her skills could not repair the damage. I also have a colorful painting of dancing tuatha'an. It appealed to me because of my background. I did not bring my collection with me to Caemlyn when I took my post here and rather regret it."

Sev glances about the room again, as though perhaps in pleasant expectation of someone...

Kellian steps into the Great Hall, quietly observing the gathering before moving in to mingle among. He searches the faces here. Cataloging each perhaps.

Maricca nods "that is fine but I do like her she has so much to talk about."

As Durnik moves away from the group Darayn steps forward, clearing his throat softly to draw the fomer Captain-General's attention as he does so.

Rezna grumbles. "Most women have a lot to say dear. Pick a different one."

Lelldorin quiets down, and his hollow eyes show extreme sadness. "I should not have come." He runs a hand through his hair, glancing around for the nearest exit.

Kataline blushes lightly, her smile rueful. ~No lady,~ she writes, ~and quite happy to be so.~

Kae offers a somewhat hesitant smile to Alianthe, "Kae... my name is Kae." she replies, after a moment. Her fingers move back to the strings, but the melody sounds somwhat sour to her ears so she stops again and picks up her goblet once more for a rather large drink.

Gail leans in closer to Corod and gives a secretive smile. "Anywhere the Queen will see it. I'd like to appear generous, but I need the patronage of those in high places." She winks.

Nevin nods sympathetically to Rio. "I suppose that you could have them brought here, if you are to be remaining indefinitely, as it seems you will. I had meant to ask you earlier if you had met Countess Eglantine?"

Theowyn returns to his escorted position of the Princess, his arm moving unto hers. "An interesting gift," he tells Rezna, and then watches his wife with a hint of amusement that nearly notes a smile on his features. Something said reminds him of another matter. "The Queen's Guards have been well informed to not allow the savages within, Ambassador. If there are any guesting, they will be asked to leave, or removed. I trust that will bring a solution to the matter. If you see any within, the closest Queen's Guard will aid you in their insured departure." His eyes catch Elyse's void ones briefly.

Corod winks back. "Happy to oblige then."

Rio shakes her head at Nevin. "I don't believe that we have been formally introduced."

Sev adds, to Rio and Nevin both. "It seems we are graced by at least a pair of gentlewomen of the visual arts tonight."

Alwyne's sharp eyes notice Demonder's change of expression, but she doesn't comment. Instead, she gazes around for a moment, giving her head a slight toss as she does so, brushing back an errant strand of hair. Her gaze returns to the Roesone lord. "Some," she replies.

Eglantine smiles. "It must be a fine thing to draw your attention away from your worries..." She stops at the question, and curtsies to Rio, quite formally.

Alianthe automatically follows Kae's example, taking a slightly more decorous sip from her wineglass. "What do you know of your childhood?" she asks after a moment of silence. Her expression is one of someone who's not quite sure whether or not something is actually happening.

"Of course." Turail nods to Durnik, politely, but not reflecting much of an expression in his features. However, that is not, by any means, an uncommon occurance, and in and of itself, indicates nothing about his mood.

Cherise sighs She mutters to Lelldorin, "... only... sorry so many... together... we... just... kinship... If you... leave,..."

Nevin smiles at Sev's altogether accurate gallantry, and sees to the formalities. "Rio Aes Sedai, allow me to introduce Countess Eglantine, High Seat of House Eilert."

Maricca sighs at the stubbornness of her husband then turns as the Prince speaks "that is good to hear, thank you."

Methos moves away from the wall, moving directly behind Durnik. He leans in and whispers into his ear briefly.

Rezna nods with a smile. "That is exactly what i wanted to hear from you prince Theowyn. My wife and I thank you." He pauses before asking one last question. "Do you happen to know of anyone here in Caemlyn well versed in the Old Tongue?"

Mouse crosses her arms and nods to Alianthe. It's so. She saw it. She saw both of them. Well ... the top half of the other one, anyway. Kae's she saw in its entirety. This message passed on, she looks up again at Kyriele, who has yet to say anything. She tilts her head questioningly.

Corod nods to Gail. "I'm afraid that I must be taking a my leave now. I'll usaully be in the Palace, we can do my portrait any time." He smiles. "Thank you for the conversation."

Corod goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Corod has left.

Rio inclines her head to Eglantine as well as introductions are made.

Deleamar shakes his head. "No, Sine. You look very pretty tonight."

Kataline laughs soundlessly at Taylon's comment, her eyes shining with amusement. She offers a nod in agreement, writing, ~And if one tries to point that out, one is suddenly rude and uncouth.~

Kellian moves first toward Theowyn and Elyse, as they are perhaps closer, or out of respect for the reason for this gathering,"Princess Elyse, it is Captain Kellian. I do trust you have been well since our last meeting?" He nods to the Prince,"First Prince," he says with a smile and nod of his head. Then he looks back at Elyse.

Kae bites her lower lip idly, looking somewhat uncomfortable beneath this line of questioning. "I.. am an orphan." she replies, quietly, after a moment. She fingers her goblet a bit, clearing her throat after a moment as she sets the goblet down and picks up her harp once more. If she doesn't play, they won't pay. So she plays.

Lelldorin nods slowly, and holds cherise's hand briefly. "I must. I cannot be here anymore." He stands mute for a moment, and then turns on his heel, and walks out.

Gail nods her farewells to Corod and then makes her way back in front of the Ravan painting again.

Eglantine straightens. "It is an honor to meet you." Not managing a longer response, ending with a rather rueful smile at herself.

Sohai makes a gesture to one of his subordinate Kandori guardsmen, who nods and moves towards Alianthe, once there he bows respectfully to her, but does not speak.

Elyse gives Theowyn's arm a comfortnig squeeze once her has it with hers again. Itis difficult to say, based on talks of the Aiel, whether this was comforting for herself, or for Theowyn. She continues to sip her wine gingerly, remaining quiet and reserved as her disposition indicates, with the exception of the occasional cordial greeting to those who approach and present themselves to her.

Taylon laughs a bit harder, "Indeed. Indeed." he agrees wippin a few tears from his eyes. "You are not a dull companion at on, quite the opposite. Tell me what is it you do here in Camelyn?"

Sine grins. Reassured. "Thank you. I didn't quite feel silly in it, but I wasn't sure."

Alianthe glances at the guardsman and whispers something to him.

Kyriele watches Kae and Alianthe for a moment, then looks down to Mouse. "Kae is your sister?" she asks the girl again, slowly.

Rik is met by another Guardsman at the door. They exchange salutes and a whispered conversation, then Rik departs and the other man assumes his former position by the door.

Rik goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Rik has left.

Durnik gets his attention distracted by Methos speaking to him, nodding briefly to the man, Durnik mutters an apology to Turail and begins turning away from the group towards the departing Rik.

Methos steps back from Durnik, and quickly makes his way out.

"You look fine, Sine." He looks over the crowd, and then something seems to strike him. "Verus is still in Tar Valon, I assume?"

Lelldorin goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Lelldorin has left.

Theowyn shakes his head briefly. "I know none that are very verse. You will find my skills in the language nearly as high as most, I'm sure." Theowyn nods in the compliment from Maricca. He returns the gesture from Elyse, finding Kellian. "Captain Kellian," Theowyn seems pleased. "I do hope you are not on duty this evening?"

Kellian glances toward Rik as he leaves, the Captain looks surprised to see that one here. Then he notices the other men who move toward the exit, his attention drawn away from the Princess and her escort for the moment.

As Durnik moves away from the group Darayn steps forward, clearing his throat softly to draw the fomer Captain-General's attention as he does so.

Methos goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Methos has left.

"She is?" Alianthe asks, looking back and forth between Mouse and Kae.

Sine follows Deleamear's glance. Huh? "Who? I don't know. Why?" Or maybe he's not asking her.

Mouse nods to Kyriele, then realizes suddenly why Kyriele's confused. "I 'membered," she whispers.

Gail crosses her arms in front of her, fanning herself gently as she studies the painting in front of her. She peers closely at it, then leans back and sighs.

Finding all of the persons with who he had been conversing turned into other matters, Turail moves off through the crowd, at that same casual stroll, sipping the wine in his hand occasionally.

Rezna decides to leave Theo be...especially now that the puppet Captain is on the scene.

Durnik looks over towards the man approaching him. Looking him over very carefully, he says quietly, "May I help you neighbor?"

Kataline smiles merrily, making a few graceful, sketchy gestures in the air before her with one hand while writing with the other, ~I make my living through painting and other such things.~

"You did? What did you remember?" Kyriele asks Mouse, still slowly.

Deleamar shakes his head. "I was just wondering, is all." He looks thoughtful, though.

Nevin turns to Lord Sev. "I am glad that you could join us here tonight. I hope that you will extend our compliments to Lady Rennar?"

The charming smile returns and Elyse replies easily to Kellian, "A pleasure to meet you here, Captain Kellian. Yes, quite well, thank you. And thyself?"

A quirk of the eyebrow from the guardsman to whom Alianthe whispered and he studies Kae a long moment, then whispers back to Alianthe.

Rezna has a nasty habit of walking one way while his attention is in the opposite direction. Seems he smells something odd in this room full of smelly bodies. Doh! Thump! He walks right into Duke Turail

Cherise sighs as she watches Lelldorin exit the room. She stands there for a moment or two--Lght, all this and she just got up from her seat for a glass of wine, which she never got! Glancing around, she spies Darayn looking to speak with Durnik..hmm. And heads in that direction herself.

Taylon makes a few excited gestures, "Ahh a fello craftsmen, er woman, er person..." he chuckels at himslef, "You understand..Here I want to give you something." and pulls out what appears to be a polished rectangluar piece of wood.

Sev nods to Nevin, "Of a certainty, I shall. I had thought perhaps she might be here, though it seems that hope was idle. Much of doings about the House, of course, if nothing else."

Sine nods. Curious. She grabs herself a glass as a tray goes by, and looks to see if Deleamar has one.

Mouse reaches up to scratch Twitch's ears. Ah, if he can't get food, scritches are the next best thing. The girl whispers to Kyriele, "M'family."

Kae watches the guardsman approach and Alianthe speak to him. She wonders, idly, how soon she could possibly slip out without getting her pay docked. After a few moments, she stops playing again and rises from her chair, biting her lip once more. If she seems.. well.. preoccupied, that is only because she is.

Deleamar notices Sine's glance, and he shakes his head. "I am fine, Sine."

Maricca jumps back as her husband walks into the Duke then gives him a glare. She has got to start his *training* soon she is not sure how much more of this she can take.

Demonder continues to watch the room, though he's obviously far less observant then most. "At least the Roesone's have basically scattered. Better to keep them apart, they seem very anti-social toward eachother." Of course, Demonder was among those being less then civil.

Nevin is quick to agree with Sev. "These are busy times, and we must all look to our Houses. But it is good to see so many here for Princess Elyse, nonetheless."

Kellian looks back at Elyse,"I am well. Thank you." He glances around the room now, looking for other familar faces.

A slight, humorless smile takes hold of the Hune lord's aeatures as he steps forward to address Durnik, deep voice softly toned yet carrying well still, "You would be the former Captain-General of CAemlyn, would you not?" he question pre-emptorily, eye brow quirking upwards as he asks his question.

Eglantine nods, looking toward the Princess. "I hope that she is finding it enjoyable."

Rio nods to Sev. "Perhaps she will be by later."

Leaving the periphery of the room, Daric makes his way through the guests towards Elyse, seeing an opportunity finally to present himself.

"What did you remember about them?" Kyriele wants to know, voice still quiet, as usual.

Sev nods to both and says, "Aye, the Princess is the very picture of grace... And yet I know not what has occasioned this visit... SOme matter of state, perhaps?"

Theowyn watches Rezna's departure briefly, and then the Queen's Guards, some former some current. The tone is more business as he nods to Kellian. "Matters are well at hand, I trust? You did receive my note of the Aiel."

Durnik continues to regard this man as if he would leap up and bite him at any moment. His eye catches Cherise approaching over Darayn's shoulder, but he speaks to the man, nodding his agreement. "Yes, I am the same. Was there something I might do for you?"

Sine grins. "All right." She takes a sip of the wine, looking not quites sure about the whole idea.

Fortunately, the Duke of Roesone happens to look that direction just as Rezna is about to collide with him. Not enough time to avoid the collision, but it does give Turail enough response time to avoid spilling his wine on the Ambassador's head. "Forgive me.. I appear to have been inattentive to where I was walking..." He casts about for the fellow's name, which he does not know, while appologising for a collision that was clearly, not his fault with practiced grace.

Mouse shrugs the shoulder her cat doesn't occupy and whispers, "What happened. Kae's m'sister now." She looks up at said sister as she stands, wondering, suddenly, if she's done something wrong by pointing out the star.

Rennar has arrived.

Kellian nods,"Yes, sir." He says to the First Prince,"I have made certain to remind the guardsman at the palace of this as well."

Alianthe asks of Mouse, a touch impatiently, "What did happen?"

A passing servant offers Cherise a glass of wine and she takes it gladly. She is standing a few steps behind Darayn and smiles slightly at Durnik, acknowledging him.

Rio looks over at the doorway, "Well, your words have proved to be prophetic, Sev. Do you have a touch of foresight within you?" For indeed, the Lady Rennar has arrived just as the man spoke of her.

Kataline takes the piece of wood with a puzzled look on her expressive face, turning it over in her slender fingers. A touch of her fingers, and a small panel slides out, easily pushed back. ~What is it meant to do?~ she queries, laying the curious object down for a moment to write the message.

Entering the room, without any pomp or self importance, is Lady Rennar Hune; dressed in a red gown of crushed velvet. It takes her a moment to get her bearings in the rather large crowd, and seems as though she is looking for a particular person.

Nevin replies to Sev, glancing at Rio and Eglantine as the group stands together, "I was merely aware that the Princess had come for a visit, and a prolonged one, I gather; since no one had arranged anything sooner, I set about doing so as quickly as I could. "

Alwyne gives Demonder an amused look. "Each one an individual?" Her glance flickers to Rennar as she enters.

Deleamar finnaly stands, and he pops his neck loudly. "Perhaps it be best I go, Sine. There is little I can do here, it seems, other then complain." He gives the girl a wink and a smile.

Kae moves to squat in a rather unladylike fashion, her dress pooling around her in a wide circle as she reaches for her harp case and begins to put the intstrument away for now. "I think I should like to take a walk..." she murmurs, to no one in particular. The remark is probably meant for Mouse, though.

Rezna looks up at the guy. Sheesh somebody needs to come in here with an axe and take about 5 inches off the lot of you. He blinks for a moment, not understanding how, with his powers of perception, he could have missed such a big person on an intercept course. He also must do some fishing for the name. He recognizes the face and has heard it before. "Do excuse me...err...Duke of house...Ummm*ponders* Roesane?"

Chuckling softly Darayn's posture is vaguely contemptuous as he waves away Durnik's offer with a negligent gesture of his hand, "On the contrary, Master Durnik," he notes evenly, the slightest of emphasis on the 'master', "I wanted to do something for you: Namely, to offer my sincerest condolences at the loss of station you seem to have suffered these last few weeks." Although his words are sicnere enough, his tone leaves much to be desired, "I find it shoucking that Caemlyn could so shamefully treat a man who has done so much for her." His eyes, and smile, are vaguely mocking.

Eglantine looks to the door, with a smile, a rather nervous one. Her hand tightens slightly on Nevin's arm.

The guardsmen nods, bowing to Alianthe and then leaving her side to make a whispered report to Sohail, who in turn studies Kae more intently from afar, the moves towards Elyse, "Your Highness, a word?"

As Daric approaches and makes himself known, Elyse inclines her head politely, offering that same charming smile. "How do you to?" to Lord Daric. Then blinks as Sohai interrupts, "Can't it wait, Lt. Commander?"

Mouse blinks at Alianthe, studying her expressionlessly for a moment before she whispers, "You don't wanna know." A brief pause, and she adds, "-I- don't wanna know." She turns to Kae and nods, reaching over to replace the woman's harp in its case.

Rio nods to the Duke, "That is all I've heard as well, but who can say the reasons why royalty takes up residence beyond its normal borders. Only time will tell."

Sine's face is protesting. "Are you sure?"

Demonder has been good, entertaining himself with a relative of Rennar. And so when she enters, Demonder is all too pleased, his eyes following Alwyne's gaze. "And there is my beautiful wife," he speaks in that dramatic and colorful language.

Deleamar frowns. "Well, a breath of air wouldn't do any harm. You may accompany me, if you like. If not, I will return shortly."

Nevin smiles to Rio, quick to respond, "Ah, but I suspect that those at court might have a better idea than those of us who live away from the palace?" He glances down at Eglantine, though, in reaction to her squeeze.

Sev :smiles to Rio. "Well, I have been given to speak wishfully, I'll confess. Though mayhap, with effort, I could foretell some merriment this evening. A courtly dance would raise my spirits, indeed. To that, then, and any foresight wit may grant, I raise these spirits." With that, he raises his wineglass, and has a healthy swallow.

"Forgive me, princess. I am Daric Roesone." Daric murmurs, bowing his head briefly before Elyse. "Is there some trouble with your servants?" he asks pleasantly.

Kae stands her full height once more, bobbing a polite curtsey to Alianthe. "Excuse me, my lady." she speaks, turning quickly to move away. However, in her haste she doesn't notice that Deleamar has moved until she is about to bump into him, uttering a startled little squeak.

Ooh such words! And from this man..A flash of disappointment crosses Cherise's features, then she frowns and tosses back a considerable amount of her wine, looking at Durnik to see how he will respond.

Theowyn does not recognize the blonde Lord that makes his approach until he introduces himself. "Lord Daric," At Daric's question, he spares a brief glance around.

Sine says "Nno, I'd better stay." With a grain. "Maybe we can talk when you get back."

Kyriele looks worriedly at Mouse, but still remains silent.

When Demonder spies her is exactly the moment that Rennar spies Demonder. Yet, she does seem to catch sight, though vaguely, of the First Prince as well. Not knowing what Elyse looks like, the young High Seat of House Hune bows her head toward the Prince, even if he may not see it, then makes her way across the room to where her husband stands and rests.

Alwyne inclines her head slightly to Demonder at the sight of Rennar approaching. "Well, I should leave the two of you to your words, then." She adds, "I do thank you for entertaining such a minor member of House Hune."

Kataline stares thoughtfully after Kae, and then looks speculatively down at Mouse, and back to Elyse, then at Mouse again. It seems like there's not much she can do at this moment, though...

Mouse secures the harp in its case and gives Kyriele an apologetic smile, then turns to follow Kae. She's supposed to be her helper, after all, and since she wasn't told to stay, she assumes she should be accompanying the older woman.

Durnik likes the man before him not at all, but he puts on an amiable smile, even while his eyes scream caution. He nods his head slightly, not lowering his eyes. "I thank you for your words kind sir." He pointedly ignores all the undertones in the man's voice. "Though there are dark times ahead, and words will be all but useless." He looks around towards the first Prince then back to Darayn. "It seems the Prince still has confidence in my loyalties though, and so he should, as should all those of Andor." He smiles back at Darayn, a smile that never touches his eyes.

Inclining his head, as well as his body in a bow towards Rezna and his wife, that is appropriate, if not so deep as that offered to the Host of the party, and it's royal guests, Duke Roesone half raises an eyebrow, "I am He. You seem to have the advantage on me sir. And be assured it is nothing. I have forgotten already." A faint smile twitches at the corner of the half shienaran blademaster's lips.

Rio inclines her head to the Duke. "Perhaps. Yet, why mar such a lovely event with idle speculations? Besides, has she not captured the heart of our own First Prince? She might not foriegn royalty much longer." She chuckles. "Although, that too is mere idle speculation."

Alianthe stares thoughtfully after Kae, and then looks speculatively down at Mouse, and back to Elyse, then at Mouse again. It seems like there's not much she can do at this moment, though... (oops)

Deleamar nods. "Very well." He begins to make his way towards the door, pushing whatever silly nobles aside who are unlucky enough to get in his way.

As others make their greetings to Elyse, Kellian slips back away from the royal group and makes his way toward a different gathering of nobility. Glancing to the Cairheinan ambassador, Kellian's eyes narrow for a moment in thought, but then he looks to Nevin, Eglantine, Rio and Sev as he reaches them. "Light Protect you all," he says in way of greeting. Then to Rio,"I do apologize for the delay, Rio."

Demonder inclines his head a touch to Alwyne. "I'm certain there's no reason to leave..." his voice trails, attention falling on Rennar. He offers her his hand, eyes beaming a touch. "You've arrived..." he makes the observant comment.

Eglantine smiles at Nevin. Softly, "Increasingly imposing company, that's all." In a more normal voice, "How long is she expected to remain; is that known?" She smiles at Kellian, with a nod, when he approaches.

Only by virtue of Deleamar moving does Kae manage not to run into him... and she seems to find his movement toward the door convenient in that his bumping aside nobles carves her a path and keeps her from having to do that very thing. She follows.

Nevin nods to Rio, but curtails any response as Kellian joins them, nodding to the captain pleasantly.

Taylon hands the case to Kataline, "I want you to have it. It's about the perfect size for paper...look here." manipulating he puzzle pieces on the box deliberately so kataline can see, he shows her how to open the box. "Its yours. IF you want it."

Kyriele nods slightly to Mouse as she leaves, then looks around the hall again.

Sev nods to Kellin. "captain."

Sine watches Deleamar's departure, and Kae's, and starts to wander her own way toward the rear of the hall.

Rezna smiles. Of course he has the advantage! he extends a gloved hand. My name is Rezna...newly arrived from Cairhien to take up the post of ambassador in this land." he pauses, barely remembering to introduce his wife. "And this is my wife maricca."

Kataline's mouth forms an 'o'. A pleased smile lights up her face and makes her already-luminous gray eyes almost glow. ~Thank you!~ she writes, underlining it for emphasis. Then her face fell. ~But I have nothing to give back...~

Nevin murmurs to Eglantine, "I really do not know how long the Princess will remain in Caemlyn. But it could be that Rio Sedai is correct, and that the move will be permanant."

Mouse follows the both of them, little needing a path as she slips between the nobles who are once more closing ranks between the retreating Roesone and gleewoman. Beint tiny helps, in some cases.

One pariticulary drunk and offensive Lord treads on Deleamar's foot. The Lord then proceeds to find himself suddenly thrown to the ground, Deleamar already continueing on.

Maricca smiles at her introduction she holds her hand out to the Duke "I am pleased to meet you." her only comment, she is growing more uncomfortable and feeling closed in with all these big people around.

Elyse looks slightly confused, not bothering to try to hide it, "I'm not . . . " she starts then falls silent as the tall Kandori officer leans to whisper in her ear. At his words, she seems to grow paler, and her hand grips Theowyn's a bit more tightly, "Where? Who?" She asks in a whisper to Sohai suddenly. Sohai responds with a look to Kae, and answers, "The harpist gleewoman, Your Highness, who seems ready to depart. Shall I detain?" His voice is soft near Elyse's ear, but not terribly loud either, likely only loud enough for those directly around Elyse to hear.

Rio nods and gives the captain a small smile as he joins her, "No need, Kellian. Your duty to the Queen comes first before escorting ladies to a party after all. But it is good that you are here." For a moment, her gaze falls upon the ambassador who still wanders around the party with a crossbow on his shoulder. Then she turns to Eglintine to answer her question, "I had asked that of the Princess myself, Countess. I was told that she has no plans to leave Caemlyn as yet."

Rennar nods her head briefly to Demonder, eyes just passing over Alwyne's presence. "Indeed, I have love." She leans over and chastely kisses her husband on the lips, then turns her eyes to Alwyne once more. "Greetings Cousin." She smiles faintly. It is just that moment that her eyes catch upon Durnik and a slight frown comes to her lips. That frown only lasts mere momnets, however, as her attention goes back to her husband; a look which was hardly noticable by many in this crowded room.

Sine passes through the double doors at the south end of the Great Hall, leading to the Rear Grounds.

Sine has left.

Darayn's answering smile chills even further, his eyes nearly glacial as he nods in acceptance of Durnik's assertion, "Oh, I most certainly do, Master Durnik." A moment's fancy strikes him then, a nearly-visible light going off in his expression as he notes with an ingenuous tone, "Why, as a matter of fact I have a wonderful idea...perhaps you could enlist as a member of the Hune guards!" Smiling brightly, Darayn continues on, "Yes, I'm sure your previous experience would serve you well in Hune...perhaps in a year or two you might even have your own command again. Does such a notion appeal, Master Durnik?"

Alianthe absently sets her now-empty wineglass on the tray of a passing server and wends her way through the crowd toward the Princess, with an unusually somber mien. She has to shove past a few affronted nobles, but no matter. Upon reaching Elyse, she whispers somethign into the Princess' ear.

Eglantine nods to Rio, flashing an abrupt smile. "I'm glad, as she does seem to be so well-liked."

Kellian smiles back at Rio Sedai,"Duty first, yes. I was confident you would find suitable companionship in my absense. Certainly better conversationalists." He smiles a bit wanly then looks at Eglantine,"How are you faring under your new status, Countess?"

Deleamar goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Deleamar has left.

Gail takes one last look at the painting, then turns and begins to wind her way through the hall. She nods to only a few people as she begins to take her leave. She makes her way to where Lord Nevin is standing, and patiently awaits an opening to thank her gracious host.

It's unfortunate Demonder might be too far to hear Darayn's comments, maybe. He does accpet the kiss from his wife, seeming surprisingly pleased, and he's all too keeping of her hand as he draws her near. "I have been entertaining our cousin here all evening," he admits with an innocent smile.

Sev smiles at Eglantine's assertion, and says very quietly, "Then here's to their health," and smiles almost mischeviously.

"Darayn, dear," Cherise smoothly sidles up to him with a brilliant smile. "I see you have met someone new..what has happened to your lovely ladyfriend that arrived on your arm?" Her eyes hold a measure of danger in them..but what for?

Kae blinks as Deleamar bodily makes his way through the crowd, but continues to follow behind him nonetheless.. in fact, she's sure she can almost see the door ahead, ah! There it is! Deleamar reaches it and pushes it open, and she slips out behind him. If anyone's going to detain her, they're going to have to follow her out to do it.

"Ah. Ambassador. I had heard some litle trifle spoken of the arrival of a representative from that Land. How opportune to meet you." Turail's voice is still mild, rasping. "Peace Favor, to you both." His eyes travel to the ambassador's wife briefly. He offers his own hand in response to Rezna's gesture. "I trust your travels have not left you too wearied?"

Rio smiles back at Eglantine, "She does have her admires, yes." She listens then to Kellian and simply shakes her head at his words, paying them no mind.

Alwyne catches Rennar's glance and follows it towards Durnik. She gives her cousin a questioning look.

Kae goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Kae has left.

Mouse leaves with Kae.

Mouse has left.

Twitch leaves with Mouse.

Twitch has left.

Durnik narrows his eyes, his eyes of blue crystal, turning to blue fire....but just as he opens his mouth to speak, Cherise so diplomatically intervenes.

It is most fortunate that Rennar herself had not heard Darayn's comments to Durnik, else she would have had a few words to say herself. She smiles unknowingly at her husband, a warm look in her eyes. "Entertaining her..." She glances suspiciously, yet humorously at Alwyne, "He has been a good host?" Her tone implies he might have been less than proper.

Nevin says quietly to Eglantine, Rio, Sev, and Kellian, "Excuse me a moment, if you would?"

Taylon smiles, "Your company has been quite enough, perhaps we can talk some other time, and you can paint for me :o)"

Sev looks to Deleamar's entrance. "Now here's a man who makes his exit *known!* he says, this time for more than his immediate group to hear. He seems to find the man's behavior quite amusing.

Eglantine smiles at Kellian, embarassed. "I...very well, thank you." Awkwardly. She may never grow accustomed to the title.

Sev nods to Nevin, "Of course, Your grace."

Rezna continues to look up at the Duke of Roesone and nods his head. "On the contrary, Andor has received us fabuously. There is something to be said for that in these busy times."

Elyse nods once to Alianthe's murmur, her mind racing as towhat to do with this information, "Detain her, no, Lt. Commander," she manages with an uncertain voice, "But extend an invitation to her. A personal one, would you?" her voice coming to a plaintive whisper. Around the goblet her hand seems to start to tremble. She looks as if she may sick up or faint, or both. The hand on Theowyn's arm as well, begins to tremble.

With a single nod and a subsequent bow, Sohai takes his leave, letting the other five Kandori Honor guard behind to protect their charge.

Rio inclines her head toward the Duke as he steps away from their small group.

Eglantine looks up to Nevin and nods. Softly, "Of course."

Sohai goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Sohai has left.

Nevin smiles to Sev. "Thank you, my lord; I will count upon you to entertain the Countess while I am gone, if I may?" He looks as much to Eglantine as to Sev as he asks the question.

Blinking in startlement Darayn's attention is drawn from Durnik to the speaker who's presence suddenly makes itself known at his side, "Ah, Lady Cherise," he greets formally, bowing but slightly to her in greeting, "I did not know you were in attendance this evening...and I fear the woman I escorted has found another branch to perch upon," he notes indicating a distant corner of the Room where Lorilei stands in boisterous converse with three or four minor Lords gathered tightly around her.

Eglantine smiles at Nevin, embarassed, and nods again.

"He has been quite proper," Alwyne replies in response to Rennar's question, her tone smooth.

Kataline purses her lips for a moment before quickly opening her sketchpad, flipping to a blank page and pulling out a piece of charcoal. Staring intently at Taylon's face, she begins to sketch, quickly, with swift motions. Once the main parts have been sketched, she goes back and fills in details, adding shading. The end result is a sketch of Taylon, head and shoulders, that is hardly messy, but rather has a feeling of freedom about it because of the swift strokes. Tearing it out, she hands it to him, before writing, ~A temporary return.~

Gail realizes that her presence is intruding on the small group of powerful people, and she murmurs her thanks and curtseys to them all, taking her leave largely unnoticed. She walks out the doors.

Sev nods. "By your leave, then, I will entertain, in all propriety, m'lord."

Gail goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Gail has left.

"You are residing at the Palace then, Ambassador?" Turail asks politely.

Kellian moves over by Rio,"You are well I hope?" he says quietly. Looking around again at the others here.

Kyriele looks around for a moment, then, not seeming to find anything else to hold her attention for the time being, she heads for the door... perhaps because of Mouse?

Durnik mutters to himself, "... blame her?"

Cherise smirks lightly. "And why would I not be, Lord Seti? The rest of my family is here..and I do so like parties.."

Kyriele goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Kyriele has left.

Daric bows his head again before the Kandori princess, murmuring. "You seem troubled, I will leave you to your guards, your highness. Walk within the Light, yes?" the Andoran lord adds, an odd Amadician twist to his words as he withdraws.

Demonder's arm takes on a certain greater possession of Rennar. Being called proper and all, its something of an accomplishment. "The evening has proven interesting, even though some of the guest list is questionable," he notes their case to Darayn and those around him. "I fear I grow rather disappointed in my cousin, Lady Cherise, and the company of her choosing. We met in the common rooms a few days ago, I have to admit to a slight scene."

Taylon dropped Puzzle Case.

Nevin turns aside, then, and makes his way toward the Princess.

Puzzle Case has left.

Alianthe looks with concern at her Princess, laying a hand on Elyse's shoulder. She mutters to Elyse, "... all..."

Rio sighs, "Well enough. Although, I am troubled by the situation that Ambassador Renza presents. Still, what could he do in a room of this many people and I am not without my defenses."

Eglantine looks after Nevin, then smiles to the others. A blink at Rio, then, and the smile's lost as she asks quietly, "The Ambassador?"

Rio shakes her head at Eglantine, "I do not believe that you have anything to fear, Countess. I know the captain of your guard and he is a dilligent man. Your safety is assured."

Rennar takes a moment to glance over at Durnik once more, taking more of a note of those who are there. At the same time she answers Alwyne, "That is good to know. Demonder is trying hard to rise to the station that's been given to him through our marriage." The words are spoken fondly, and proudly. "He already sits on the council of nobles, with myself and other representatives of House Hune, and has proven quite worthy."

Sev nods discreetly. "I have marked his... fashion statement. Quite a crude gesture, as these things go."

Theowyn is briefly amused at the rude Roesone's, but decides to settle his gaze on Elyse. The arm still in escort of his blind date, literally, he seeks out those within the room. "Perhaps we shall finally enter, as it were, Princess?" The offer is as much as a needed statement, moving past Lord Daric and further within carefully guiding Elyse. The brilliant blue eyes do catch Lord Darayn and Durnik, the men having just left their side, and likely within hearing range. But he sets that better, moving away and further within the room enough steps as allowed, though will stop when greeted further.

Kataline nods in response to Taylon's whispered words, writing, ~Hopefully so.~ She offers a shy smile along with the words.

Darayn shrugs slightly, a vague gesture at best, "It is certainly quite the event, to all appearances. It seems the hosts have managed to gather patronage from both high and low." he notes, indicating the dais holding the royalty for the former, and making who he inferred with the latter most clear by his lack of any indication at all.

Taylon takes katalines hand, "We will." he smiles warmly. and stands

Kellian frowns as he watches Rezna pass among the crowd,"Has he been acting dangerous this evening? Threatening."

Taylon rises from his seat on the lovely Ashwood Bench.

Eglantine nods. "Yes, I..." She looks toward the man, slightly puzzled, but she just nods again.

Nevinmoves in a line to intercept Princess Elyse and her royal escort. "Princess, it is Duke Nevin. I trust that all is well?" He speaks softly, but clearly enough to be heard at close range.

Cherise glances briefly at Durnik, then smiles winningly at Darayn. "We are all here to enjoy ourselves, Darayn..by the way, have you met my cousin the Duke, yet?"

Rezna nods matter of factly to Duke Roesone. "We are. We've pretty much made ourselves at home." he smiles. "I saw you in the gardens the other day spinking witht he Kandori Princess and Prince Theowyn was kind enough to tell me who you were."

Rio nods and leans closer. She mutters to Kellian, "... only... weapon... a... rebuff... me."

Alwyne looks at Demonder. "It seems your wife holds you in high esteem indeed." She glances over at Durnik and the group of people around him. "Is something troubling you, cousin?" she asks Rennar.

Kataline blushes faintly again, smiling in farewell. Looking down at the blank page before her, and looking once again at the crowded room, she sighs lightly and starts sketching, to cement her memory in case anyone should want a painting of this event later on.

Maricca remains by her husbands side, her arm intwined in his, she simply smiles as she speaks to the Duke. Occasionally she glances round the room but it is difficult for her to see much with her little stature.

Eglantine drops her eyes, at the quiet words. To make it clear that she's not listening.

Taylon has left.

Demonder simply shakes his head, finding a smile even though his eyes can't seem to stop falling elsewhere in the room. "I would should hope so, she did practically drag me by the hand so that we could be informally married. I am insured she was not of high fever that evening, though some doubt my words." Demonder goes as far as to cup Rennar's cheek fondly. "Though our formal marriage will be set shortly."

Sev reassures Eglantine. "There's more bluster to it than danger tonight, I think. Except perhaps to the hapless lamplighter in the shadows with his staves."

Durnik sniffs slightly at Darayn. At least Durnik didn't have to ride the coattails of his House Head to get in....but what he does is.....smile politely as he listens to Cherise and Darayn speak.

Eglantine looks up with a smile, at Sev's reassurances. "Yes, surely no one would cause trouble here and now..."

"Forgive me," Elyse replies distractedly to Daric as he departs, then manages an uneasy smile to Alianthe, taking a deep breath and exhaling to steady her nerves, "A seat, yes, I think I would like that," she brings her goblet carefully once more to her lips as Theowyn escorts her further into the room, and attempts to be easy-mannered with small success to the questioning host, "Oh, yes, Duke Nevin," she tries that charming smile, "Quite. My man was doing me the honor of inviting the musician to play for me at the palace." A part truth, "Quite a lovely choice in musicians, Duke Nevin, though I am sad to say she could not stay."

Turail chuckles softly at Rezna's remark. "Ah.. I was not aware there were watchers in the gallery, or I might have come up." The comment is laced with a fair amount of humor. A little bit of shienar seems to slip into the Duke of Roesone's speech for a moment before becoming just a ghost fading away. Even after all these months of being among his father's side of his bloodlines, sometimes, that faint hint of the location of his lengthy past wanderings does slip out. He sips the wine in his hand.

"No, there is nothing overly wrong, cousin. I'm just curious at the choice of Guests, as my husband so adequately put it, that the Duke of Barydar has chosen to represent here." Rennar simply shrugs her shoulders, "Though it is not something that should concern me so. I only have to interact with those that I wish." She smiles politely, then glances to Demonder. "Only after much insistance prior by yourself, love." She winks faintly, "And I am looking forward to the formal event myself."

Kellian looks at Rio, faintly concerned, then looks at the Ambassador,"I will have to speak with him. He endangers all of us if he continues on this path."

Darayn sighs softly, vaguely disappointed it seems, "I do not believe I've had the privilege, Cherise. Perhaps you would be so kind as to remedy this misfortune, then?" he asks quietly, seemingly unaware of Durnik's continued presence in the room.

Rio nods to the captain in agreement.

Nevin nods to Elyse, an unconscious gesture. "I was surprised that she did not stay longer, Your Highness. But being concerned for the ease of my guest of honor, I wonder if Your Highness and the First Prince would like to take a seat in the salon?"

Alwyne smiles faintly at the display of affection between the two. "Ah. Perhaps I should leave you to some privacy for this evening - at least what little you can have."

Daric goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Daric has left.

Eglantine asks tentatively, "I think that I missed what he's done?"

"That may be less distracting," Theowyn remarks, looking across the crowded room. "Princess, as Guest of Honor?" he gives her the option considering her place within this arrangement.

Rezna smiles "Yes well if there is one constant in this court I have noticed...it is that people like to watch." He seems to appreciate the man's humor. He goes out on a limb here. "Perhaps you and your wife would like to join my wife and I for a drink in our apartments one of these days soon."

Kellian looks at Eglantine,"Acting very unambassadorlike, Countess. Threatening to bring war on another front to Andor if he continues to seek his personal vengeance on those he doesn't like."

"I believe he's..yes, he's right over there.." Cherise scans the crowd, then points out Turail to Darayn. "I would introduce you, but you do such a charming job of that yourself. Besides, I would have a word with Lord Durnik here.." she smiles.

Eglantine blinks. "I see. Yes." She looks toward the ambassador, the better to remember his appearance.

Maricca nods in agreement with her husband, her emerald eyes shine at the prospect of entertaining at their new living quarters.

Rezna overhears the puppet Captain's words and decides to make a response. "I hope that you can excuse me for a moment Duke Roesone. I need to give a captain a sound tongue lashing."

Rio sighs as Kellian speaks and then adds more herself to Eglantine. "I'm afraid that I made a miscalculation earlier when it came to the ambassador. A pair of aiel had requested to see the _roofmistress_ of the palace. Not wishing to bother the Queen over such a trival matter, I bad Sev here to bring them to me so that I might perform the role. The ambassador did not find it amusing."

Durnik moves closer to Cherise, nearly touching her. In fact his hand does brush against her occasionally, as they stand there together. He smiles at Darayn showing no matter what the man may feel personally, there are still those who would support him...or at the very least not be so openly rude to one who /still/ holds a noble title, if not a military one.

Eglantine blinks at Rio. "But why not? He felt that you showed them too much honor, or... I'm afraid that I don't understand."

Maricca rolls her eyes and prepares to go with he husband, she dips her head to the Duke "it was a pleasure."

"I will broach the subject with my wife, Ambassador, and see what her social calendar looks like currently. Of course Ambassador. Maricca. Peace Favor." He turns away as they depart.

Rezna approaches the Captain and his master...err mistress...err whatever you want to call her. "You have something you wish to say to me Captain? Perhaps you could try speaking it to me...and not everyone else first...Or is that the way things are done here in Andor?"

Kellian looks at Rio,"You do know that Theowyn has dictated that the Aiel are not to be allowed in the palace at all now." He looks squarely at Rezna. "Perhaps I'm taking lessons from you, Ambassador. What I have to say to you is that for an Ambassador you are making a grand show of trying to start a war."

Demonder looks over to Rennar, whispering loud enough for Alwyne to hear. "I'm afraid I have bored her already. A terrible host," he makes mention before he turns his eyes innocently on Alwyne. "You were lovely company, Lady Alwyne. Please feel no need to leave. I'd be afraid of what might crawl towards us if we are unattended by conversation other then our own."

Glancing in the direction Cherise indicated Darayn appears to ponder a decision before shaking his head in quiet refusal, "Ah, perhaps another time, Cherise. I fear I should really make an effort to visit with a few of my own relatives before I depart this eve." Sparing Durnik the slightest glance Darayn seems to dismiss the man altogether with but a shallow nod of the head, "Think on my offer, if you will." and with that, he turns away, heading towards the cluster of Hune nobles across teh room.

Eglantine blinks at the eavesdropping ambassador, face closing over.

Rezna snorts. "You Andoran guardsmen are one's to talk my dear Captain!"

Rio nods to Kellian. "I have recieved a missive from him about the matter, yes." She says no more at the man with the crossbow comes into range. Or is that target range? She gives the ambassador a cool look.

yes...the ambassador carries a crossbow...in a room full of men with swords. So he's a little different.

Maricca remains in silence as her husband speaks, acknowledging Rio with a nod. She did not at all like the creatures being allowed in the room with her but she still does like Rio.

Kellian looks at the Ambassador gravely,"I was speaking of you, Ambassador, not Cairheinans in general. If you have a concern with my actions, then speak to that. Not in vague gestures and generalizations."

Rennar tsk at Demonder in a slight, playful manner, "We will have to work on that." She smiles warmly and glances toward Alwyne again, "There reallly is no need to leave us, unless you've others you wish to speak with. It is rare that I even come to these events." And, as heir-apparent to the Rose Crown, she should probably be attending more.

Turail finishes his wine before someone else bumps into him, and gives the empty glass over to as ervant.

Durnik watches Darayn's back starting daggers into it, finally he erupts at Cherise, though erupt is perhaps a bad word, as his tone is low and he does not direct any anger towards her.

Durnik mutters to Cherise, "Can you... of that... speak... no... but... and... equal!"

Sev watches the man with the draftee's weapon... Or assassin's. He smiles a bit, not making a show of it. "If that's for the Aiel, it'll do you no good, you know, good sir Ambassador. "

Durnik looks around for Darayn who is lost to the crowd now, but does happen to spot Rennar. That's it, his mood is definitely spoiled. He looks at her as if Darayn were her fault personally, before getting his attention drawn back to Cherise when she speaks next.

Rezna smirks. "Well my friend...I believe you will find that little old me...starts no war. We shall see if the same can be said for you and your...guards. I have not made any attempt to bring harm to the Aiel here, and I have the right to carry whatever weapon I wish to protect myself and my wife. Yes i protested the presence of the Aiel in the palace to theowyn...and suprise of suprises...he agreed with me."

Nevin looks to Elyse hopefully after Theowyn's question, somewhat concerned about the expression that the Princess had been wearing only a bit ago.

Alwyne tilts her head to one side, "Rare? I would think that you would find yourself in higher demand." Her gaze towards Rennar is mildly curious.

Kellian nods. "Very well then, Ambassador. Your words when meeting those that walk in the lands to the east were less then friendly though. Certainly not the manner in which one negotiates with another."

"Of course, Darayn" Cherise smiles graciously. "Light shine.." After he has moved off, she turns her attention to Durnik, listening quietly to what he has to say. "Of course you are, my lord. But Darayn is..well, Darayn. Cocky and self-assured. And not possessing all the facts of the situation..come..shall we find some peace if possible?"

Eglantine listens, mouth pursing unconsciously.

Passing through the slightly less crowded room with an easy grace it takes Darayn not long at all to finally arrive amongst the other members of his own House, "Greetings, Cousins." he notes, nodding companionably to Demonder and Rennar while sparing Alwyne a more searching gaze.

Sev nods to Rezna. "Yes, the Prince has made his case most gracefully," he smiles. "All I meant to imply was that, whatever right you may have to bear a weapon, the crossbow would be too slow in any event. If they *were* to attack you, which I daresay they won't without provocation, being on another errand, you wouldn't have time to unlimber it, never mind cock it."

One might /almost/ see a flicker of a smile on Rennar's features as she just happens to notice Durnik's displeasure. Whether it be from her cousin Darayn or other reasons it would not matter, just so long as Durnik is upset over something. "Perhaps I am, cousin." Rennar continues to address Alwyne, "But I cannot be everywhere all the time, so I delegate matters to others and persue those things that I can find time for. I am restarting the horse program that I almost nearly destroyed. Thankfully, I did not sell all the horses of Tarien stock, and can work out a good crop of foals this year."

Rezna snorts! "less then civil...When the Murundians come through and sack your capitol city...raid and plunder your farms and do whatever the hell else that savages do...i will be interested to see how you greet them."

Durnik sniffs.

Durnik mutters to Cherise.

Maricca shudders at the thought.

Durnik speaks exasperatedly.

Sev says "I see, I will take this intelligence to heart.""

Kellian says calmly to Rezna,"I am a soldier. I will stand in defense of Andor with my last breath. You are an ambassador. Or so I thought.."

Alwyne nods in response to Rennar's comment, and returns Darayn's gaze with one of her own, one eyebrow raised slightly.

Rezna looks to Sev with an odd smile. "Does it look to you that I am in any position to fight off any Aiel with any weapon?" He pats his crossbow. "This happens to be one of the few I know how to use."

Sev says "YOu make threats with other mens swords readily, Ambassador. Most cunning.""

Deleamar has arrived.

Rio looks between the two men as they speak to Renza and remains silent just like the Countess. She contines to give Renza a cool stare.

Cherise smiles and nods She mutters to Durnik, "... they... are..please?" She gestures to the far end of the room, it seemingly less-peopled.

Spotting Demonder himself, Turail drifts that direction, remaining at a casual strolling gait, one reflecting his blademaster's skills. Drawing nigh on Demonder's elbow, Turail greets those of the party he knows by name, "Peace Favor, Lord Demonder, Lady Rennar."

Demonder arches an eyebrow as Darayn approaches, perhaps catching the sights of Durnik's discomfort. "Cousin," he addresses his cousin-in-law with the title, holding a tinge of amusement. "You are doing well, I see." He offers Rennar a comforting squeeze of the arm he holds.

Sev says "But if you would defend yourself agains t the Aiel, and yet would not be able to in any event, why burden yourself with such a heavy token?""

Durnik nods finally....done with speaking to people for a while unless they should seek him out.

Durnik follows Cherise's led.

a

Kae has arrived.

Eglantine remains silent, though her face grows slowly more disapproving as she watches Rezna.

Rezna shakes his head and thinks Rio can stair cooly till she freezes over and melts away. "Yes...I am an ambassador...one who warns a Prince trying to look after the safety of his queen that there is a threat within his palace. Again...he agreed with me."

Taking another deep and measuring breath, she nods, "I would not want to be such a horrid Guest of Honour, Your Highness, Duke Nevin." She smiles, but it is a distracted and subdued smile, "I do want the opportunity to meet everyone invited to such a well organized social occassion, and in my own honour, no less, Duke Nevin," She leans a little bit more against Theowyn, though, the only testimony to growing fatigue though she does well to disguise it otherwise and stubbornly sacrifices her own comfort for social pleasantries, "A seat within the hall, here, would be quite satisfactorym, thank you."

Sev smiles, holding his glass. "If things are as you say, we have enough enemies without provoking travellers who have made no threats..."

Sohai has arrived.

Weaving her way through the crowd, Cherise makes her way to the couch where they had previously sat. She settles down with a sigh.

Rennar nods her head to Turail and Darayn as they both finally approach, "Cousin, Duke Roesone." Rennar offers each their own nod and smile, Turail's a bit more respectful than that she gives to her cousin. She glances between Alwyne and Darayn a moment, pressing her lips together, "Cousin Alwyne, this is Cousin Darayn. When he's not out frollicking about with the ladies, he is helping to guard House Hune." She winks slightly at Darayn to show a small attempt at humor within her words; with no offense meant.

A member of the Queen's guard comes in, escorted by one of the house guards. he quickly moves to Theowyn's side once he spots him and slips a small message into the Prince's hand.

Bowing slightly at Demonder's comment the humor in Darayn's answering grin is positively feral, "So kind of you to notice, Cousin...although I fear I am at a disadvantage," he notes, nodding first towards Alwyne, and then to Turail with a questioning expression.

Sev says "In fact, they were quite dignified, as I recall after your meeting of them, Ambassador.""

Kae makes her way back inside, having apparently gotten her share of fresh air. However, she looks perhaps more pale upon entering than she did upon departing dispite the faint flush to her cheeks from the chilly night air. Plucking a goblet of wine from a passing servant's tray, she begins to skirt the perimeter of the room in search of another spot to sit and play.

Rezna says "you let the prince be the judge of that."

Nevin replies promptly, then, "Surely, Princess Elyse. Perhaps Your Highness and Prince Theowyn would care to take a seat at the Spicewood Table, just over here?"

Sev leaves unspoken his opinion of how dignified Rezna may have been. "In any event, if you fear for your safety, bring guards when you go abroad, that crossbow would only avail your enmities from inside the castle walls, and that would be most complicated." He pauses. "Wouldn't it, Ambassador?"

Rio shakes her head. "Two aiel that politely ask to be let in at the door under their own customs hardly poses a threat to the Queen, Ambassador. They were also under constant escort by Sev. There is more than one reason why the First Prince might give in to your demands, Renza."

Alwyne allows a smile to play on her lips, and says, "Are you quite popular then?" Her gaze flickers across the crowds of people meaningfully.

Turail bows slightly, in a courtly fashion towards this new group he has joined himself to generally, his blue granite eyes travelling from Lady Rennar and Lord Demonder to Darayn and then to Alwyne. His gaze does seem to linger on Darayn slightly however, as Rennar names him.

Kataline finishes sketching a number of scenes and pauses for a break, flexing her weary hand. Snagging a glass of wine from a server, she takes a tiny sip of it, then another, as she leans back and allows herself to simply look without having to memorize details.

"An excellent choice," Theowyn comments politely, looking to Elyse as though in order to insure she is dealing well with the noise of the room. With the offer, Theowyn does escort Elyse toward the indicated table. "An excellent affiar, Duke Nevin. The turn-out is spectacular. You've held no limits back in your invitations..." that comment might show a hint of displeasing over the matter. He does get stopped, however, by the guard that slips a note in his hand. Taking it, he nods and folds it into his pocket before finishing the rest of the way toward the table.

Sev watches Rezna's face closely, a moment.

Eglantine remains silent, as her eyes move from one to the other.

Rezna shakes his head. "I care not what his reasoning may or may not have been. The reality is that he made the correct decision. One which any guard during these times should make. I am now beginning to see how all these things that happen within your palace...manage to happen.:

The guard leaves once he is certain the message is delivered...too many noble fops loidering about in here

Alianthe peels away from the Princess and her escort, taking up another wineglass. She seems rather somber, not bubbling over as she usually does, thankfully for the ears of anyone nearby. Drifting through the crowd, she listens in idly on the conversations of people she happens to pass by.

"How are you taking becoming the leader of Roesone, Lord Turail?" Rennar addresses the Roesone High Seat, her eyes taking to him almost immediately after she makes introductions amongst her own family members. A clear curiosity can be found in the eyes of the Lady; for she did support his rise to High Seat to the Lady Cathryn before her passing.

Kellian looks at Rezna quietly,"Are you in Theowyn's employ or your Queen's Ambassador Rezna? You are welcome to express your views, and in this the Prince has agreed with you. I will abide by that."

Nevin raises an eyebrow at Theowyn's tone of voice, but says nothing as the First Prince leads his guest of honor away. Instead, he walks over in the direction of Kae.

Cherise depart

"Duke Turail." Demonder's eyes flash slightly, bowing with the respect deemed. "Peace favor. I trust you are having an enjoyable time this evening?" he asks first, though his attentions still hold a hint of amusement at Darayn. "Lord Darayn is the cousin that has made aquantance with Lady Cherise, though..." Demonder shrugs. "I thought Lady Cherise to be a Lady.." Demonder stops there, and frowns. "It is unfortunate. The company she chooses to hold, ignoring her Duke even."

Cherise leaves his seat on the Leather Couch.

Cherise enters the Salon.

Cherise has left.

Rezna says "A wise plan...given the action of the rest of your commrades."

Durnik looks around at the crowded room once more before following Cherise into the salon for a bit of quiet for a while.

Durnik enters the Salon.

Durnik has left.

Present is: Kataline.

Returning Turail's glance for a bare moment, nodding subtlely, Darayn turns his attention back to Alwyne, "'Popularity' is a rather fleeting thing, Cousin," Darayn notes wryly, a short chuckle following his quiet comment.

Smiling with slightly flushed cheeks, Elyse simply nods with a now empty goblet, not having any way to know what to do with it, and is easily lead by Theowyn to the aforementioned table, lowering herself with assistance into the seat.

Sohai keeps his gaze on Kae, intermittently as he makes his way back to the Princess, leaning over after she is seated to whisper in her ear once more, after the appropriate bows to all around her, of course. She leans to listen keenly, near anxiety upon her fair features as her sightless gaze falls onto nothing in particular before her.

Eglantine's still silent, her disapproval only displayed by the rapidity with which she pushes back her hair.

Rezna has been concentration on Kellian but now turns his attention to Sev (sorry had missed another of your poses) He seems to smile. amused by the idea that he does not know how to run security. "When I feel that I am safe within said walls sir, I shall put down the crossbow."

Kae seems to have found another spot to set up shop... however, it seems that her harp is still outside since Mouse did not follow her in. She produces a flute case from the folds of her cloak and takes out the instrument, tucking the case away once more. She begins to play, letting her gaze drift over the room as she coaxes the quiet song from the instrument. She notes Nevin's approach, but does not stop playing.

Maricca squeezes her husbands arm and comments "When are you geeting me that guard darling." she seems to care not who hears her.

Rezna looks back to his wife. "I dispatched the letter to the Ebon hand detachment this morning dear."

Sev says "Then you do not trust our Prince's judgement after all, Ambassador Rezna? Surely that contraption would avail you not against whatever could pass our defenses, even in the unlikely event?"

Nevin seems content, for the moment, to watch Kae play for the space of about a minute, after which he gives her a quiet nod and turns away, returning to the crowd.

Alwyne watches the milling nobles for a moment, then looks back at Darayn and replies, "Yes, I suppose it is."

Theowyn offers Elyse a chair, and does indeed give her the appropriate aid so that she may sit at the Spicewood table. He flows into his own seat easily enough. "Much political angst flows within the room, to be certain." That could be seen by the simple paring of people in conversation.

You sit down at Spicewood Table.

"Well enough Lady Rennar. I'm sure you, most of all, can appreciate both the trials and rewards of such an undertaking." A slight wryness manages to find its way out from underneath his unperturbed weathered features. Then his attention is re-taken by Demonder's words, "Ah, Lord Darayn. A few words concerning your charm have managed to reach my ears." Is that amusement glittering in stone-blue eyes? Probably, though good natured. "Lady Cherise is a handful, is she not?" He glances at Demonder again as Demonder remarks on Cherise's manners. Mmm. He may well have to do something about Cherise's chosen company rather soon.

Rezna shakes his head. "I have the upmost confidence in the Prince's ability and his judgement...it is the men...serving beneath him I have reservations about."

From the balcony above, Tigare comes into the corridor from the direction of the balcony to the west.

From the balcony above, Tigare has arrived.

Rio eyes narrow at the ambassador's comment about the Ebon Hand. No, this is not good at all. She gazes at Kellian as the ambassador insults him, her mouth forming a tight line of distaste.

At the mention of Cherise's chosen company, a more noticeable frown comes to Rennar's features once more. "Indeed. It does not bode well." She makes no direct reference to what she is commenting about entirely. "I do trust that you are settling into things well enough?" This she asks of Turail, while she squeezes Demonder's hand supportively.

Turning to regard Turail for a short moment, Darayn's tone also carries a light tone, "I would not know, Lord Turail," he replies, smiling slightly, "I have not yet attempted to close my hands on her."

Little by little some rumor seems to be quietly passed along to the Kandori Honor guard posted about the room. And their subsequent frequent glances toward the gleewoman gives testimony that she is much more interesting than perhaps paying attention to their own charge.

"In more ways than one, my Prince," Elyse says slightly breathlessly to Theowyn, turning her head so that her ear may better face the lovely music issued by the flutist, Kae.

Draz has arrived.

Eglantine shifts her stance, glancing down as she frowns.

Kellian stares at the Ambassador,"Ebon Hand? You have not been traffiking with the criminal element of Andor have you Ambassador?"

From the balcony above, Tigare descends the grand staircase and goes down to the Great Hall below.

From the balcony above, Tigare has left.

Tigare ascends the grand staircase from the Great Hall below.

Tigare has arrived.

Kae watches Nevin watch her, the soft music weaving its way through the hall, providing a soothing backdrop for the various heated conversations. As the nobleman turns and walks away, she quirks a brow. How.. odd.

Sev says "Interesting he should want to bring *those* into t he Palace, what?""

Draz steps into the Great Hall without much notice, proffering his invitation and then straightening his cloak as he moves to the side and looks around.

Rezna snorts. "What would make you think that?"

Alwyne watches Turail and Darayn's exchange calmly.

Tigare walks down the stairs, eyes wide, something about her jingling slightly. She makes a rather poor entrance, though, as she's barely taller thant the banisters.

Various of the Barydar servants circulate throughout the Great Hall and the Salon, making sure that glasses are refreshed or replaced.

Alianthe glances frequently at the gleewoman as she wanders aimelessly around the room, finally selecting a point at which she can overhear most of the conversations, and still keep an eye on everything else.

Maricca shifts uncomfortably at the conversations and takes a fresh glass of wine from a passing server.

Nevin spies Tigare at the foot of the steps, and moves over to her.

Duke Roesone seems amused by Darayn's comeback, and in fact, a rare variant of his stone-face, known in some circles as a smirk threatens his mouth. "I am pleased to hear that, Lord Darayn." His tone is clearly amused now. No, that was not a threat, only a jest aimed at the propriety of Darayn 'closing his hand' on Cherise at this early stage of acquaintance. "Things which are not in hand, shall be shortly, Lady Rennar." He remarks almost as cryptically to her.

Kellian looks at Rezna,"You talk of hiring guards from some shady group from the sounds of it."

Theowyn sets his sites on the certain discussion of conflict, too distant for him to hear, but as a brief crowd of people passes through he does manage to see conversation. The matter of Elyse's Guard is something else, and Theowyn addresses that next. "Your Guard are showing and interesting curiousity toward the musician."

Rezna laughs. "Oh no my dear Captain. I simply talk of guards whose loyalty...I know I can trust." he trained most of them afterall.

Draz moves into the hall, taking a glass of wine from one of the servers. He seems rather comfortable in a setting such as this, making the correct nods and moving bows as appropriate, for the moment not allowing himself to be approached by anyone for longer than a kind word or two.

Of course, Kae is used to having people look at her oddly, but tonight the frequency of the glances makes her shift somewhat uncomfortably as she stands there playing her flute. After a few minutes, she begins moving through the crowd as she plays, hoping that she can at least forget that she is being watched so carefully even if she can't figure out a way short of leaving to keep from being watched.

Rennar nods her head compliantly to Turail, her eyes settling on Darayn briefly in puzzlement. Likely, Rennar has heard of the arrangement between himself and her husband, but has not heard the entire story outright. "I do hope, for your sake, Lord Turail that it is." She pauses her head and sighs, eyes lowering briefly, "I must say that it is a shame about Fal Moran."

Alwyne eyes Duke Roesone speculatively for a moment.

Eglantine stands with Rio, Kellian, Sev, and Rezna - the latter looking rather less like part of a cozy little group. She frowns slightly, looking rather nervous. She smiles, though, when she catches sight of Draz, and raises a hand a fraction.

Tigare hurries quickly over, when she's approached. "Uncle Nevin!" Softly. And softer, "I finished dinner."

Sev says "Ah, trust, the mainstay of the diplomat's art.""

Kellian looks at Rezna,"Did you ask the Prince's permission to bring these guards into the Palace?"

Maricca nods "I much prefer one of our own guarding me." she mutters as she sips her wine.

Demonder sighs a touch, though otherwise attempts to continue his amused expression, as it is his preference. "Cousin," this time to Turail, "It was a good attempt at an arrangement. Lord Darayn certainly is a reminder of my life before falling in love," he's all too forward about that, his lip quirking in amusement as he somehow manages to make that sound as much a negative as a positive. "Yes, Fal Moran..." his voice trails.

Nevin nods to Tigare. "And a good thing, too. We have a great many people here tonight, as I said we would."

Kataline notices the rather frequent glances toward the gleewoman and quirks an eyebrow, wondering what's so fascinating about her. Well, her hand is quite rested by now...so she picks up the charcoal once again and starts sketching, this time of the slightly nervous gleewoman being the center of a number of curious stares.

Alwyne murmurs, "A tragedy indeed."

Rezna smirks. "Did you ask him for his permission before you invited the savages in?" Mental note...ask Theowyn for permission at next available opportunity

Draz smiles widely as he notices Eglantine, starting towards her little group. As he looks at those in the group, however, he pauses, his attention drawn instead to... the... painting, and he walks over to it, thoughtfully studying it.

Tigare nods. She reaches up to Nevin's hand, though she's lately called herself To Old for that sort of thing. "It's good?"

Darayn shakes his head in silent amusement at Demonder's remark, although he denies his humor any other outlet by compressing his lips tightly, allowing the others to continue their conversations free of interruption.

Sev says "Ah, but savage is a matter of grace and literacy, is it not? I admit, I am too young to have known the war, but perhaps becasue of this, I found them both literate and cultured. He adds. "I see you bear a book of the Old Tongue, though. A hobby-horse of mine, it is, I do think it behooves one to recall the past... ""

Elyse nods slightly to Theowyn's comment, 'Lt. Commander, perhaps the musician would be so kind as to come and join us?' her voice again, a plaintive whisper, then she leans a bit more towards Theowyn as he sits beside her, She mutters to Theowyn, "There is... question... her... Prince," her voice strange and distracted as she explains.

You sense Elyse nods slightly to Theowyn's comment, 'Lt. Commander, perhaps the musician would be so kind as to come and join us?' her voice again, a plaintive whisper, then she leans a bit more towards Theowyn as he sits beside her, "There is some question on her heritage, my Prince," her voice strange and distracted as she explains.

Maricca turns to her husband "I do believe we mentioned it to the Prince the night we spoke to him and he agreed I could have my own guard and that you could pick a few of his also."

Nevin takes Tigare's hand, smiling reassurance at her. "Very good. Here, let me introduce you to a few people you should know." With that, he leads her over toward Rennar, Demonder, and Turail.

Eglantine watches as Draz is diverted, and returns her attention fully to the group.

A soul can take a flight to elsewhere in the blink of an eye if given the magic word, and anything of Shienar seems to do the trick for the High Seat cut half from that cloth. The distance suddenly in Turail's supercooled blue eyes is a giveaway as both Rennar and Demonder make mention of the tradgedy of Fal Moran. He nods slightly as his eyes snap back into here and now focus. "A tragedy.. of monumental proportions, I agree." He sounds faintly weary, all humor driven forth by somber thoughts.

Rezna smacks his forhead looking to his wife. "Ah yes that's right he did. Well there you go Captain." Eyes go to Sev again. "Can you decipher the Old Tongue?"

Theowyn nods slightly at Elyse's comment, now he too tries to spy out Kae, though from their seated position this isn't an easy task. "Can you expand on that, Princess?"

Sev says "Aye, I can do this, though at some more oblique constructions, I am less than quick... If I may? ""

Tigare follows Nevin, holding tight to his hand. Standing up straight. Keeping her head up. All those Ladylike things.

Kae continues to move through the mulling crowd of nobility, spreading her music as she goes. The group of guardsmen as well as the Prince and Princess' table are most resolutely avoided.

Sev says "I may have even read teh work before, if it be well-known.""

Kellian looks at Rezna,"I did not invite them in." Then glances at Rio quickly. But doesn't give Rezna much satisfaction there. He looks back at Maricca, and nods,"Very well then." smiling at her. A genuine smile. Then to Rezna,"I'm afraid I'm too busy at the moment to act on your behalf Ambassador." As if he would be asked.

Eglantine looks at Sev, mildly startled. In an impressed sort of way.

Nevin wears a merry smile as he leads Tigare toward the suddenly somber group. "Lady Rennar, my greetings. Lord Turail, Lord Demonder, have you all met my niece, Lady Tigare?"

Rio meets the captain glance with a grimace, but says little more about the matter.

Sev speaks a pretty quote in the Old Tongue, as though a schoolboy sharing a joke.

Tigare looks up at the very important three, eyes large as she stares at them.

Rezna seems dubious...but curiosity as always has the better of him. He hands the book over to Sev

Rezna smiles to himself...a well satisfied smile. Not often one gets the last word on an Aes Sedai

Gently, does Rennar reach out and squeeze Turail's shoulder. "Forgive me... now is not the time for such comments. I should have left somber moments at home." She gives the High Seat of Roesone a sheepish look, then turns her attention to Nevin as he starts to make introductions; dropping her hand from Turail's shoulder and squeezing Demonder's hand. She nods her head to the Duke of Barydar and his young liege, each in turn. "A pleasure." She comments softly.

Elyse shifts uncomfortably, her low voice strained from an old injury made anew, though she does her best to disquise the pain in her expression. Lucky for her, her gaze always remains expressionless, vacant and unseeing as they are, 'Some speculation . . . she may me . . . ' she frowns slightly, but a sad frown, not an angry or resentful one, She mutters to Theowyn, "... some... Prince."

Sohai moves through the crowd, weaving here and there, and displaying that martial artists grace that Kandori soldiers are known for, finally arriving to face Kae, and bow slightly, extending his arm out in a silent gesture toward the Prince and Princess, inviting the gleewoman to join them wordlessly.

You sense Elyse shifts uncomfortably, her low voice strained from an old injury made anew, though she does her best to disquise the pain in her expression. Lucky for her, her gaze always remains expressionless, vacant and unseeing as they are, 'Some speculation . . . she may me . . . ' she frowns slightly, but a sad frown, not an angry or resentful one, "There is some speculation that she is my sister, my Prince."

Sohai moves through the crowd, weaving here and there, and displaying that martial artists grace that Kandori soldiers are known for, finally arriving to face Kae, and bow slightly, extending his arm out in a silent gesture toward the Prince and Princess, inviting the gleewoman to join them wordlessly.

Eglantine shifts her feet, looking down toward the book in Sev's hands.

Sev flips through, and peruses. "A journal indeed. And quite good penmanship, as these things go, which is to say... Ahem. Well, pardon if I skip toward the end, perhaps he's had some practice by then...

Demonder is not always the brightest, not having put the two and two together. His actions turn more sober to the comment, nodding briefly to Turail. It is then that Nevin escorts Tigare, and he attempts to brighten his features. "Lady Tigare, I do believe we met." Of course, when they did Demonder was punching out a Gleeman, but that an entire story all-together.

Tigare curtsies, a fluid if slightly flamboyant curtsey. Her eyes are just as large as she looks up at them, and it may be apparent to Nevin that she's forgotten what to say.

Alwyne glances around the hall for a moment, then returns her attention to the exchange between Nevin and her conversation companions.

Kae's music stops suddenly, and doesn't the area around her suddenly seem lacking as she does. In fact, several of the conversing nobles nearby glance toward her curiously as she tucks her flute into its case and tucks the case away before turning to make her way toward the indicated table.

Rezna watches Sev flounder through the thing. if Theo a tower trained warder could not handel it...he knows better then to think this...young one would have any clue whatsoever

Theowyn blinks a few times at the response given, his hand coming to her own, as he sets them both on the table. The sign of affection is clear, his fingers interlacing with hers in a tight squeeze. He mutters to Elyse, "... that... four... did... disappear?"

Elyse senses "Theowyn blinks a few times at the response given, his hand coming to her own, as he sets them both on the table. The sign of affection is clear, his fingers interlacing with hers in a tight squeeze. "How could that be. Your sister? You have four sisters, did one disappear?""

"Darayn, dear," a dusky voice sounds from just over the Hune Lord's shoulder, startling him, "You told me you were going to take me by the Queen's Gardens tonight." Turning to face Lorilei's rather pouty expression, Darayn nods shortly before turning to his Cousins in either House or Nobility. "I fear I must depart this affair for the evening, as you may have heard my honor calls me to fulfill a promise." A slightly naughty smile slips fre before Darayn schools his expression to one much more unreadable, "Perhaps we will have the opportunity to meet again, Lord Turail, Cousin Alwyne." And with that he turns to depart, Lorilei's expression lightened greatly at the prospect of the Gardens.

Kellian steps closer to Rio. Protectively it seems. Though it's unlikely he could protect her from anything she couldn't protect herself from. Watching the ambassador and the nobleman as they talk.

Deleamar continues to sit silently near the far corner of the room. Though he doesn't offer conversation himself, indeed most do not seek companionship with the blunt Lord of Roesone, he does listen to the various words floating through the room with much interest.

Alwyne watches the couple go, a faint look of amusement crossing her features.

Turail smiles at Rennar's comforting gesture, a small smile, verging on what, wistful? before his attention turns to the small lady with Nevin. He actually crouches down and rests on his heels so he does not tower over Tigare. "A pleasure my Lady Tigare." Slight softness may be noticed creeping into Turail's voice and manners. He actually winks at the small one conspiritorially, using the child's arrival to thrust away some of the sadness that had cloaked him.

Espying the gleewoman heading toward Elyse's table, Alianthe abandons her idling and heads purposefully there as well, not wishing to miss a single thing.

Tigare does nod to Demonder; the memory of that incident doesn't seem to help her form speech. When Turail descends to her height, she smiles, easier. Her voice is clean and clear, though she fumbles the words a little: "And me, a pleasure."

Simple minded puppet guard! Rezna is such a horrible threat...if you are worried about people with weapons...perhaps you should keep you eye on the blademasters in the room

Darayn goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Darayn has left.

Nevin smiles as Turail offers his greeting to Tigare. His niece may have forgotten her practiced words, but she will do just fine on her own winning goodwill for Barydar just by being herself.

Lorilei goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Lorilei has left.

+finger who?

"Of course. Good evening, Darayn." Rennar nods her head toward her departing cousin, her eyes briefly going over his companion for the evening. She turns her eyes back to Tigare and Turail, and allows herself to smile a bit, "Though Lord Turail is married, Lord Barydar, I would watch him. He has a way with the ladies as well, or so I hear." Her tone is lightly teasing as she speaks. "He may steal the heart of your niece." She winks at Tigare as well, then steps back a bit and behind Demonder as if to hide from retaliation.

Elyse seems everso grateful for that affectionate grasp over her hand, however inappropriate it might seem, and she nods, not yet, knowing that Kae approaches, She mutters to Theowyn, "... sister... crib... long... to... .... . until,..." Her head tilts, offering her ear to Sohai who arrives with Kae, and announces the gleewoman's arrival, sans name since he does not have it. She manages a pensive smile to the woman, "Peace favour you, Mistress . . . ?"

You sense Elyse seems everso grateful for that affectionate grasp over her hand, however inappropriate it might seem, and she nods, not yet, knowing that Kae approaches, "My eldest sister was kidnapped from her crib . . . we have long believed she was lost to us . . . until, perhaps, now." Her head tilts, offering her ear to Sohai who arrives with Kae, and announces the gleewoman's arrival, sans name since he does not have it. She manages a pensive smile to the woman, "Peace favour you, Mistress . . . ?"

Rezna just smiles and shakes his head as Kellian hovers around Rio. That poor guy. Well at least we can all be thankfull he's not running the guard. Eyes go to Sev. "make anything of it?"

Easilly forgotten, Draz stands before the painting, wineglass held at the correct angle in one hand, gently caressing a small green stone with the other. Whereas the painting was merely a distraction at first, he seems to be honestly admiring it now.

Sev says "Mmm, I wonder who "That dastard Calman," could be, "Killer of joy, breaker of... my winecup. Best winecup. " Hmm, either a cunning metaphor, or an ill-trained manservant, I presume. Perhaps I could take this to where my lexicon is, and give you the gist of it in a few days? ""

Durnik has arrived.

Mouse has arrived.

Twitch arrives with Mouse.

Rezna shakes his head and reaches out for the book. "Fraid not sir."

Eglantine blinks up at Sev, and down toward the book.

Turail smiles at Tigare once more and then rises from his crouch to eye Rennar questioningly, "I do? I was not informed of this!" He protests.

Kae curtseys low, not that the young Princess can see it... "Kae, your Highness." she supplies, folding her hands neatly before her and managing, somehow, not to fidget. It's been a long night.

Mouse slips into the Great Hall, Twitch perched on her shoulder. She takes a moment to glance around, then makes her way through the crowd toward Kae, winding her way among people who hardly even notice she's there.

Nevin smiles down to Tigare as Turail rises.

Demonder simply chuckles at Rennar's comments, a hinting surprise at her humor. "Renni, you do not wish to see Blademaster's cheeks blush from such comments." When one takes notice of Turail's usual manner, that comment is more so amusing.

Alianthe arrives at the table and offers a bright smile to Kae, seeming to lose some of her pensiveness. "Light illumine, Mistress Kae!" she chirps, sailing around the table to stand behind Elyse, as per her usual position as a lady-in-waiting.

"Perhaps that was because they were too shy to say anything." Rennar further teases, all light and good humored. Still, she stands behind Demonder, ensuring that he is between herself and Turail. "Would you not defend me, my husband, if Lord Turail called for his honor to be defended?"

Sev nods, glancing down, and says, "Well, do come by sometime, and I may bring the House tutor to slap my wrists for a misconjugation, just as for old time's sake. How did you come by this, in any event? It looks like quite the find...

Alwyne looks amused, yet somewhat...distracted.

Tigare smiles up at Turail as he rises, then looks up to Uncle Nevin, seeking reassurance. She finds it in the smile, and her perfect posture relaxes slightly.

Rezna says "I received it as part of my families inheritance.""

Maricca sips her wine and remains by her husbands side. Emerald eyes go to Sev then to the book in question.

Sev flips to the last page, and says, "Is that so? I do wonder how it ends?"

Kellian decides he is tired of bantering with the ambassador it seems, more pressing matters gather in his mind as his gaze grows distant.

Rezna says "Badly I'm sure...as most things from that time did. *he takes the book back*"

Sev smiles, "Well, I shan't part you from it any more than necessary, but do keep it dry. A treasure, the moreso."

Theowyn is surprised by Elyse's words, that much shows. Again, he begins to spy out the room in search of Kae but it is not with success. He mutters to Elyse, "Would this be... a... Taken from the..."

Elyse senses "Theowyn is surprised by Elyse's words, that much shows. Again, he begins to spy out the room in search of Kae but it is not with success. "Would this be a fifth sister, or a fourth? Taken from the grib, the events related to the current turmoil within Andor?""

Sev hands the book back to Rezna, seeming to have forgotten all the earlier tension in his fascination."

Nevin sees that the other High Seats have returned to their own conversation, although he is pleased that it seems at least somewhat the lighter now, and tells Tigare, "I think that the Prince and the Princess are busy just now, so you'll have to meet them later. Shall we go over and say hello to Eglantine?"

Rezna says "I will be taking very good care of it sir *he still does not know the guy's name* I brought it in hopes someone here could tell me what was written within."

Tigare nods to Nevin. "Yes, please. Is she here?"

Sev nods. "Well, it's a journal, that much is clear, yes. Insight for the ages, no doubt."

Mouse ends up standing beside, but just a little behind, Kae in front of the Prince and Princess. She doens't curtsey, possibly because she isn't wearing a dress. She doesn't bow, either, though. She just watches the pair of them with expressionless grey eyes, standing by the gleewoman.

Kellian mutters to Rio, "The... be... here.... is... just the company."

Turail chuckles some more as Rennar presses him further with teasing. "Ah Lady Rennar, if what you say is true, perhaps I will simply work my charms on thee?" He glances towards Demonder, obviously baiting the both of them slightly. Sometimes, he does display a slightly .. un-Andoran sense of humor. His eyes travel around the remaining persons in the circle, lighting briefly on Alwyne.

Sev says "I don't doubt that the more salient points may be ciphered, though. It's been the practice."

Eglantine says, "Perhaps the library..." Tentative. This may be the first time she's spoken, since the ambassador walked over.

Rio mutters to Kellian, "You are reading... thoughts, Kellian."

Nevin nods to Tigare. "Right over there, with Lord Sev, Captain Kellian, and Rio Sedai," he replies. "And the Cairhienin ambassador, whom I have yet to greet myself."

"Lord Barydar, I know life within Houses can often times be difficult, and lonely. I've a younger sister, Satira, who might enjoy Lady Tigare's company sometime, if she is interested." Rennar speaks this as she glancse down at the younger Barydar. "If this proves true, let me know and I'll set up a meting between the two. They are about the same age, I'd think."

Rezna nods. "That much I gethered from Prince Theowyn. I shall find someone better versed to interperite for me"

Kellian mutters to Rio, "... if you... a... run for... stand... and... any..."

Nevin turns back to the duchess, when she speaks, smiling the more broadly. "Lady Rennar, that strikes me as an excellent idea."

Tigare's face is eager as she hears Rennar's offer, and she looks up to Nevin. "Can I?" Yes, it seems that she can. She nods, happily.

Sev nods. "I shall keep an eye out, myself. The true mastery of the tongue can be a rare thing... so many see it as a mere idle affectation.

Demonder is simply amused by Turail's comment. Humor is found in odd places at times. "A challenge worth those herons," he comments with a chuckle. Though he does watch Rennar after that comment, pondering if he'll get bapped in the head.

Alwyne seems to notice Turail's scrutiny despite her preoccupation, and smiles politely.

Eglantine asks Sev, "It is a personal specialty for you?"

Nevin nods down to Tigare. "Of course."

Elyse smiles to Kae's voice, then relaxes a bit more as she hears Alianthe behind her, feeding from the strength of her supportive friend. She inclines her head once, leaning, She mutters to Theowyn, "... are... Royal... total, my Prince.... be... to..." Her tone is careful, as she then places her attention back to Kae, caution and hope warring in her expression, "You play very nicely, Mistress Kae," she begins, "I am told you are of Kandori heritage?"

You sense Elyse smiles to Kae's voice, then relaxes a bit more as she hears Alianthe behind her, feeding from the strength of her supportive friend. She inclines her head once, leaning, "There are four Royal Daugthers in total, my Prince. One, my oldest sister, was thought to be lost to us." Her tone is careful, as she then places her attention back to Kae, caution and hope warring in her expression, "You play very nicely, Mistress Kae," she begins, "I am told you are of Kandori heritage?"

Rio gives Kellian a chuckle, "I hardly think that will be necessary, Captain." She turns to Eglintine and Sev, ignoring the ambasador. "Countess. Sev. It has been a pleasure talking with you, but the hour is growing late and I fear that I should be returning home." She gives Kellian a smiles, "You arrived here rather late. Why don't you enjoy the party? I'm sure that I can find a carriage back to the palace safely."

Rezna nods to Sev. "I would apprciate that sir. Should you locate one...you know where to find me."

Tigare says "Thank you." She turns to Rennar and says it again, more formally, "Thank you, Lady Rennar."

Rennar nods her head graciously to Nevin, her smile broadening. Oh, she's not done with Turail yet, but she'll finish this line of conversation first. "Excellent!" She exclaims. "I will speak with Satira first chance I get and see how she feels about the meeting as well. She needs another to speak with, now that our sister is no longer with us." She does not go into detail over Calisa, it being known that the young girl went to the side of the Dark and then died; or is presumed dead in most cases. She then turns her attention to Turail, her eyes teasing the other Lord briefly, "That would not be becoming of a married lady, Lord Turail, and you'll find that my attentions are steadfast to my husband." Her tone turns teasing once again.

Eglantine nods to Rio. "It was a pleasure to meet you." Quietly. "Good night."

Kellian nods to Rio,"Be safe, Rio." smiling to his friend.

Nevin sees that Rio is on her way out, and nods to her as well.

Rio inclines her head in return to Duke Nevin's nod as she slowly makes her way toward the entry hall.

Turail returns Alwyne's polite smile, and then turns a slightly more mischevious one back on Duchess Rennar, "Come out then, Lady Rennar, if you fear not my wiles. I merely asked because you seem to know a lot about my charms.." He grins at Demonder, whom she hides behind.

Kae stands quietly, waiting. As Elyse addresses her once more, she nods slowly. After a moment, it occurs to her that the Princess cannot see her nod and blinks slightly. "Er, yes your Highness..." She draws a slow breath in an attempt at soothing her frayed nerves. Perhaps it would have been better to leave without getting paid...

Sev says "Aye, it is. Let's greet my kinswoman, he says, and bows to Rezna. "But until then, Ambassador. Do take care, and the Light be ever upon you.'""

Sev bows to Rio as she exits if his player didn't pose too late.

Finally Draz turns from studying the painting, eyes searching the room. He accepts a new glass of wine from one of the passing servers. He slowly starts to make his way over to where Eglantine stands, casting a quick glance at the departing Aes Sedai. Ashame... he missed meeting her.

Rio goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Rio has left.

Eglantine smiles at Draz, at his approach. "Hello. Hello, good evening."

Tigare watches the lady that's leaving, curious.

"It is not your charms that I fear, Lord Turail, but my own." Rennar counters, amusement clearly in her voice as she continues her light teasing. "You see, you are a married man as well, and with my feelings so steadfast to my husband, I'd be afraid of stealing your heart away from your wife with no recompense for you...." She continues to hide behind Demonder; a safe place to be. She gently squeezes her husband's hand in reassurance of her teasing.

Kataline finishes sketching one cluster of nobles and goes on to the next, losin herself in the soothing, familiar rhythm and sounds of charcoal scratching over paper.

Mouse steps forward to stand beside Kae, reaching up to touch her elbow. Okay, so she isn't much, but she's still here. She keeps her impassive grey gaze on the royalty at the table.

Sev smiles to Eglantine. "I do hope the entertainment has been sufficient, Excellency. I fear I find myself too easily absorbed by a rare old book."

Draz bows as he approaches Eglantine, fighting back the urge to smile, but failing, perhaps sharing a secret joke. "Lady Eglantine, it do be a pleasure. How do ye be faring?"

Maricca turns to her husband She mutters to Rezna, "... much... will... be here darling?... you think you will ever... anyone to..." she again sips at her wine.

Maricca shrugs "tis up to you darling I can survive."

Nevin separates himself and Tigare courteously from the other High Seats, and stops, for a moment at least, to greet Alwyne. "I trust that you are enjoying the party; have you met my niece, Lady Tigare?"

Eglantine smiles at Sev, awkwardly. "Yes, of course, it's been fascinating, if a little disconcerting..." She flushes at Draz' greeting, and nods. "Very well, I'm very well, thank you. How are you?" She ought to introduce everyone in the remaining little circle to him and him to them, but the very thought of it - titles, extra names, who to present to who - overwhelms her.

It is rare that Demonder's eyes would hold this much amusement, bulging with the need to laugh, he tries to hold back the chuckles that want to appear. It likely more because he knows both Rennar and Turail, and their interestingly different sense of humors from his own. "I could only indanger myself with a comment on these matters..." he concludes, twisting to look to Rennar with that showing surprise. "You are being delightful, my love. A second Blademaster in House Hune, this one following in hopes of winning you over, would be an excellent addition."

Kellian continues to stand near Countess Eglantine as she talks to other guests.

Tigare smiles at Alwyne. And she curtsies again, with care.

Theowyn pulls away from the leaned in position used to speak quietly with Elyse. He takes this opportunity to seek out the note placed earlier in his pocket. One would think the Prince would read it sooner considering the circumstances it was brought to him by. As he unfolds the note, he watches Kae with a note of curiousity.

Kae's attention is distracted momentairly from the Royals by Mouse's touch upon her elbow. She turns her gaze down tot he girl and smiles, moving one hand to rest it lightly upon Mouse's shoulder.

Rezna nods to his wife. "Allow me to find the host of this...event and thank him for his hospitality and then we shall be on our way."

Alwyne returns the girl's smile and inclines her head in response to her curtsey.

Maricca smiles "yes I would like to do that darling it has been a nice affair."

"Oh I see." Turail's remark to Rennar is indulgently laughing, though his mouth merely grins. He chuckles at Demonder's expression, marvelling at just how much of a rascal his married cousin remains, even in marriage. "And yet you avoid the question of how my supposed charms have come to your attention.." A teasing accusation, "Although, I must warn you, Jan will not give me up easily. She is.. sly and determined, as well as beautiful."

Draz shrugs to Eglantine, only his shoulders moving in the gesture. "I be doing well milady, House Barydar be praised for such a fine showing." He looks from Eglantine to the others gathered around her and offers each one a nod, even offering a slight bow to Sev when he notices the other man's clothing.

Nevin stands not far from Rezna, paying courtesies to Alwyne. "Have you seen our new Ravan?" He inquires?

Rezna makes some discrete inquiries among the servants present as to who might be the host. he is pretty much clueless afterall

Mouse glances up at Kae as she rests her hand on her shoulder, then turns back to watch the Royals. Twitch yawns and goes to cleaning his whiskers, ignoring everyone, since no one's feeding him, or scratching his ears. Humans are so inconsiderate.

"Indeed, so I have heard." Rennar admits, "Though, I have not actually met her myself, to my knowledge." She glances at Demonder, his turn now, "Do not all men, once they are married, gather an entourage of women who just wished they were married to them instead of the person they are with?" She winks at her husband, then glances back to Turail speculatively, "You, especially, now that you've inherited the House."

Eglantine smiles at Draz. "I've never seen so many people in this room." She looks at them all, and openly asks, "Please, I am sorry, do introduce yourselves?"

One of the servants, a handsome lad, indicates Lord Nevin.

Tigare looks up at Nevin. Rav...oh. Yes. She looks toward the painting.

Sev nods, and says to Draz, "Sev Hune of the House Hune, who should catch the next glass of claret that wheels by," he says, referencing his empty glass as though he would raise it.

Demonder shakes his head, chuckling lightly and in hopes it won't get worse, before his next comment. "I believe the entourage of women is well hidden from the one we wish to marry, and simply left unthreatened once we have won the hand of the one we wished to take as ours," Demonder comments with a certain amusement.

Kellian remains quiet for the moment. Uncertain of the protocol. He is not openly know to be of the nobility. And is certainly regarded with less standing as a Captain in the Queen's Guard. So he keeps his own council for now.

Draz smiles widely at the ease of Sev's response and inclines his head again, "Drazen Duran of Altara. It do be a pleasure meetin' ye Lord Hune." At ease, he somewhat forgets to keep his pronunciation clear, the Illianer accent shining through.

Elyse tilts her head backwards a bit, towards where she last heard Alianthe, a plaintive expression appears, seeking assistance, not truly certain where to begin, then turns back to Kae, "Forgive me, Mistress Kae, you seem so young to have accomplished such talent--" talent which Elyse herself shares at merely 19 years of age, "How old are you?"

"See your wife's perceptions Demonder?" Turail inquires in feigned shock. "I assure you lady Rennar, if there is such an entourage gathering to the carcass of the old married man, they have been stealthy in keeping themselves from even the notice of myself." He laughs wryly, "And especially my wife. I'd have felt the hotness of her displeasure already, were such a body to exist, I am sure."

Eglantine smiles, relaxing, though she looks at Kellian with some mild puzzlement. She just asks, however, "Have you been enjoying the music?" Well, when there was music.

Sev smiles again, "Brilliant. I take it you know the Countess Eglantine?"

Kae wonders how the Princess could know whether she is young by not looking at her... could she tell just by the voice? "I am twenty six summers old, your Highness." she replies, politely.

Kellian looks at her. "I was. Unfortunately she stopped playing shortly after I arrived. I hope I was not the cause of that." He seems to be jesting.

Rezna is no judge of looks...especially in men. he thanks the servant for said indication anyway though and heads toward Nevin, holding back a respectable distance until the man is free to talk. Would hate to be rude during such a splendid event afterall...

Speculatively, Rennar nods, "Perhaps... perhaps... though I suppose you are not privy to the whisperings of those stroll in the Arboretum rather than the Queen's Gardens either." Rennar tsks in a teasing manner, shaking her head from side to side. It may be known that Rennar stopped going to the Palace for any reason, except for High Court meetings as required.

Sev obtains a glass of wine as a servant wheels by with aplomb and a minor flourish.

Draz coughs on his wine at Sev's question, recovering his composure quickly enough, "Countess... aye, I do be knowin' the Countess Eglantine from long ago." He casts an incredulous glance at Eglantine with a smile not quite formed on his lips.

Theowyn's travel between Kae and Elyse, before they focus on the paper ahead. As he reads, the expression tightens on his features. Theowyn feels the need to crumple the paper, but holds back by straining his fingers, and setting it back to his pocket.

Eglantine pushes her hair back, face coloring. "Yes." Awkwardly, embarassed. "We met... some time ago, yes."

Alwyne looks over at Nevin, apparently realizing he had been speaking to her. "I find it a very interesting work, truth be told."

Sev raises his glass to Eglantine before taking a sip and looking visibly refreshed. "I do hope it's been entertaining as promised, Excellency. Surely Cairhein has done us a justice at least in this respect,"

Nevin turns a bit toward the painting, stepping back a bit as he speaks to Alwyne about it, not realizing tha as he does so, he is stepping rather closely to where Kae is talking to Elyse and Theowyn.

Eglantine smiles. "Yes, very much." Awkwardly. "I don't fully understand all of the issues, of course."

"Perhaps you will enlighten me, then sometime, Lady Rennar." Turail chuckles and shakes his head, his sleekly black straight ponytail shifting positions on the collar of his coat in the motion.

"My wife is all too perceptive when she has a need for it," Demonder comments lightly, setting to the lesser tone of the conversation. "I am certain the Duke is a man of experience, not many would have survived marriage with a Domani thus long. Lady Janeva is very..." he searches for the appropriate word. "Charming." Not charming in the Andoran sense.

Tigare is comfortable enough to release Nevin's hand, even. She steps around for a better look at the painting.

Alwyne moves over to stand near Nevin, drifting somewhat away from her previous conversation companions.

Sev grins, "In this, you are perhaps pointedly not alone, m'lady. But can I leave you to good Drazlan's attentions? I should greet my cousin."

Eglantine nods quickly to Sev, mildly apologetic. "Yes, of course, I didn't mean to keep you. It has been very nice to see you again."

Sev says "It's been brilliant, m'lady, Perhaps you might favor me with a dance, should minstrels appear.""

Eglantine's smile brightens. "That would be very nice."

Elyse takes a deep breath herslf, nodding, "Would you mind too terribly coming to the palace on occasion and playing for me?" A disarming smile, "Despite the fact that Kandori coin is not quite as heavy as Andoran, I can promise your time will be fairly compensated."

Smiling with one corner of his mouth, Drazen nods to Sev, "Good eve to ye." Turning back to Eglantine, he starts to speak and then shakes his head. Considering, he opens his mouth again and once again closes it. Finally he smiles and leans over towards her, speaking quietly.

Nevin says to Alwyne, "I still can't believe that I acquired the painting so inexpensively. It's worth a fortune. I am hoping to get it authenticated soon."

Sev bows and slides back toward where Rennar is.

Alwyne glances at Nevin. "Wherever did you get it?"

Eglantine's face turns redder, as she answers Draz.

Maricca looks to the painting as she stands by her husbands side waiting for Nevin to acknowledge them "the painting is lovely isn't it Rezna."

Draz's face carries a look of amazement and amusment as he regards Eglantine.

Sev smiiles to Rennar and raises his glass, staying outside the zone of intrusion upon her conversation..

Kahlil has arrived.

Kellian looks between Draz and Eglantine. Not certain if he should intervene or is he intruding. "Countess?" He says softly.

Tigare asks, looking up to Nevin, "Who'd we get it from?"

Rezna shrugs and has never had an appreciation for fine art. "Yes it's lovely dear." His eyes do seem to lock in on it though

Eglantine smiles at Kellian, apologetically. "I'm sorry, I'm being very rude. I... we were just discussing the... change in title."

Nevin hasn't noticed Rezna and Maricca, having turned away at the wrong moment. In fact, he's stepping backward again, rather in their direction. "The perspective is one of the most interesting parts of the painting," he says to Alwyne, glancing down at Tigare.

Alwyne's glance flickers from Nevin, to Tigare, to Rezna, then back, waiting.

Rennar chuckles further and pinches her husband's arm a bit - a light pinch, nothing hard. "I must admit that marriage seems to suit you." She speaks this to Turail, though it could be meant for Demonder as well. "I am afraid, however, I must part company. The hour is growing late, and there's a meeting in the morning I must attend with the decorators." Her eyes dance and light up when she speaks this. Items have been coming and going out of House Hune over the last few weeks or so.

Draz grins at Eglantine's response and straightens, shaking his head slightly. He glances down at Kellian and salutes the man with a silent toast before draining the contents of his glass.

Kae flashes a smile, seeming to relax a little bit. "Ah, yes... of course, your Highness. It would be an honor." She begins searching through her cloak for something, and apparently doesn't find it as easily as she'd expected. Drawing one half more foreward, the other half slips off her shoulder to hang down her back. As it does so, it reveals part of what looks to be a birthmark peeking out above the oddly cut neckline of her dress.

Turail smiles back at Demonder and Rennar as this particular joke seems to be finally dying down, and then remarks. "I am afraid my time for socilization this evening is expired as well. Lady Rennar, Lord Demonder. It was a pleasure to see you again."

Demonder looks between Turail and Rennar as though they were conspirators, deciding to leave about the same time. "I will be joining you, of course, my love," he mentiosn to Rennar with a teasing grin.

Rezna is on the look out for large bodies on an intercept course this time, and promptly steps out of Nevin's way eyes slowly moving away from the painting.

Mouse just stands quietly, her cat on her shoulder, and watches.

Rennar nods her head to Turail, and the others, "A pleasure, aye." She smiles at Sev as he makes his way closer, but from the looks of things, she's preparing to leave herself. "Cousin Sev, Cousin Alwyne, a good evening to you both as well." She takes a step forward and hooks her own arm with Demonder's as he announces he'll be escorting her home.

Nevin responds to Alwyne belatedly, somewhat distracted by the art. "I bought it from a dispossessed Murandian noble of minor standing. It's the small details which make me think that it's the actual Ravan, rather than a good copy. But since the authentication papers that the Murandian had had were lost when they fled the country, he couldn't prove it was real."

Alianthe squints slightly, trying to unobtrusively peer closer and make out the birthmark. A slight sucking of her breath indicates her success, just before she leans down and whispers to Elyse.

Alwyne turns slightly back towards the couple at the sound of Rennar's voice, and smiles. "Good evening, cousins."

Sev smiles, and bows to his cousin. "Ah, my cousin, it were the better for your coming, however brief. I will doubtless see you on the morrow."

Sev nods to DEmonder again, and offers a bow t Turail. "Your Grace."

Theowyn's mind drifts to other matters, no doubt whatever had be written on the note is tugging at his conciousness. He does faintly watch the exchange between Elyse and Kae. And after another pause, he settles something in his mind, his attentions going further to them.

Rennar chuckles faintly, "Aye, doubtless Sev." Rennar answers, nodding her head to her cousin again. With that, she allows Demonder to lead her out of the room, pinching him lightly again for his 'suspicions'.

Alwyne's attention shifts back to Nevin as he begins speaking again. "Interesting."

Tigare moves closer to Nevin, as more people approach, and reches for his hand.

Sev glances to Alwyne.

Nevin turns with Alwyne to wave farewell to Rennar, and sees Rezna out of the corner of his eye. "Ah, you must be the Ambassador? Have you met my niece, Tigare?" Prompted in the last somewhat by Tigare's hand, which he takes.

Eglantine takes a breath, and asks Draz, "Had you been back in Caemlyn long, when we met again?"

"Lord Sev, until next we meet," Demonder responds, taking his wife and beginning their escort through the arrangement of people toward the door. "You were delightfully interesting this evening, my love. It was good to see you in good humor."

Turail departs right after Rennar and Demonder, after casting a glance about to note that Lord Nevin is occupied. He will simply send a note of thank to Nevin on the morrow, rather than disturb him now, and possibly get hooked into further conversations. He bows to Sev briefly on his way past, "Light Shine.", his bearing still casual, though his movements reflect a bit more purpose now than earlier. It does not take long for his angular form to disappear through the doors of the hall out into the evening air.

Sev holds up a glass of wine as if toask if she would like one.

Turail goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Turail has left.

Tigare curtsies to the Ambassador, wearing a smile. It all seems easier now. But she still forgets what to say.

Alwyne briefly glances at Nevin, who has apparently become engrossed with the ambassador, then back to Sev. She shakes her head slightly.

Rezna has met...no one really. He shakes his head as he finally gets to look down at someone. "I am afraid I have not had the pleasure." he offers the young child a pleasant smile. "You must be our gracious host. A splendid event you have put together here...almost reminds me of home."

Rennar goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Rennar has left.

Kahlil asks a man in livery to fetch some wine for him, and upon receiving it, approaches Eglantine and the two men next to her.

Rezna remembers his wife! "And this of course...is my wife Maricca."

Now part of a group, Draz finds it easier to look about the room without attracting much attention. He looks back down to Eglantine and considers his response before saying, "Aye... I was fer bein' here a good month or two before we ran into each other. When... our friend went away, I did travel back home for a bit before coming here."

Demonder goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Demonder has left.

Kataline decides it's time for her to depart and packs up, depositing charcoal in pouch, tucking sketchbook beneath arm, and simply holding the puzzle box in one hand. Making her way through the slowly-dispersing crowd, she dodges a slightly inebriated noble, making a grimace as she disappears through the doors.

Maricca smiles "I am pleased to meet you." she is proud of her husband for remembering.

Kataline goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Kataline has left.

Eglantine nods to Draz. "So you're quite familiar with the city again?" She smiles warmly when she catches sight of Kahlil, and nods to him. "Hello, good evening, I did fear that we might not see you."

Nevin bows to Maricca. "A pleasure, Mistress Maricca. Have you both met Alwyne?"

Sohai, who still stands behind and slightly to the side of Kae, registers surprise on his usually stoic features as he takes in the Royal birthmark on Kae's shoulder blade. But that is for a mere moment as he bends, knuckling the floor and facing not Elyse, but Kae. There is no doubt in his deeply rumbling voice as he intones formally, "All Hail, Her Royal Highness, Princess Etania Coralie Kamikatsu!! All Hail The Princess has returned to us!!" To which every Kandori guardsman in the room knuckles the floor in a similar manner, wherever they currently stand.

Neither smile nor fornw appears on ELyse's features as eralizations seems to strike her a moment after the others, and after Alianthe's whisper. Hands trembling, she rises awkwardly, but quickly, perhaps knocking the chair over in the process, depending on how heavy it is. One of the younger Kandori guardsmen, less reserved, begins to issue forth the Kanori national anthem in a strong tenor, and is soon accompanied by his comrades, one by one, until all of the Honor Guard are singing the Kandori march in exaltation of this wonderful revelation!

Nevin turns from Maricca and the others, as the chair clatters, and the Kandori take up singing.

Sev looks around at all the movement.

Alwyne smiles politely and steps closer to the group. "Alwyne Marathelle...House Hune," she murmurs, then turns to see what the singing is.

Rezna does look in that direction as well

Maricca dips her head to Nevin and smiles "I believe we...." her words cut off as she turns to the singing.

Deleamar looks up from his musing at the announcment. "Well, burn me," he mutters.

Mouse blinks, and looks up at Kae, a quizzical expression on her face. Time for something familiar, she reaches up and plucks her cat off her shoulder and cradles him close, scratching behind her ears, her eyes on the gleewoman.

Kahlil smiles at Eglantine. "I did be tied up elsewhere, I do fear..." He stops to listen to the Kandori and to try to find what's going on.

Rezna is distracted. He favors Alwyne with the best little nod/bow type thing he can imagine given the circumstances. "A pleasure to meet you."

Eglantine blinks over to the Princess' seat. What?

Draz mutters to Eglantine, "The wine do be good I imagine. The soldiers be hailing a gleeman."

Kae's hands, which had been searching through her cloak, still at the sudden announcement Sohai makes. The gleewoman wears a look of complete shock as she turns in a slow circle, taking in that which is going on around her. Surely this must be some kind of mistake.. or a joke of some sort.. right?

Alianthe sweeps a deep, profoundly respectful curtsy to the newly-rediscovered Princess, though curiously there is somewhat less surprise on her face than on most of the Kandori there. Perhaps she'd been expecting this; perhaps it was just that she'd had a bit more time to accustom herself to the idea.

Tigare asks Nevin softly, "What's that?"

Theowyn sees no reason for the sudden announcement of a Princess, not realizing the birthmark would have announced her as vocally to the Kandoran as the Kandoran did just to the room. He stands when Elyse does, offering his support of her. For once, The Prince is surprised, and attempts to deal with it as best he could. Not like he knows the anthem. It's all very strange, though he watches Elyse and Kae, seeing similarities.

Sev 's eyes dart to the balconies, briefly.

Nevin murmurs to Tigare, "I'm not entirely sure, Tigare."

Eglantine blinks at Draz, and smiles, then strains to see over there.

Alwyne turns her attention back to Rezna at the sound of his voice. "A pleasure," she says smoothly, then glances back over at the commotion.

Sev glances to Theowyn, as if he might have some idea what might have precipitated this...

Rezna suddenly remembers why he really hates nobles. he sighs and looks back to Alwyne with his odd little smile. "I simply wanted to thank you all for your hospitality before my wife and I retired."

Maricca turns to Nevin "Yes thank you so much for inviting us, it has been a lovely affair."

Eglantine collects herself a glass of wine, face still puzzled.

Elyse grips Theowyn's hand, once she finds it, tighty, trying to keep her trembling to a minimum and tryin to maintani the elegance and dignity of a Princess while succumbing to the emotions of a young woman discovering a lon-lost sister, "Lead me 'round to her, My Prince?" she asks softly, waiting for the Kandori anthem to cease before she begins to breech the quiet with a much stronger trained soprano voice, offering to those within ear, "A score and six years ago . . . an infant girl was stolen away from the Aesdaishar Palace . . . " The Kandori Honor Guard remain kneeling as Elyse shares the tale.

Deleamar always keeps in mind why he hates nobles. "New royalty," he laughs to himself. "Light, even if she was a nice girl, it will all go to her head." He says that to no one in particular, but loud enough to be heard.

Nevin turns back to Rezna with a smile, still rather confused; but then this is a confusing situation. "Thank you for coming, Ambassador, Lady Maricca. We were glad to have you."

Draz nudges Eglantine, with the hand in which he holds the green stone, "What be happenin' here milady?" He looks at her, "Yer lookin' as lost as me."

Eglantine jumps, and smiles at Draz. "I have no idea; it does sound like some sort of discovery."

Kahlil turns to Eglantine, Kellian, and the other man, who sounds Illianer. "I do believe they have discovered something, my Lady... royalty."

Rezna nods his head to nevin one last time and leads his wife away. It seems the 2 of them mean to take their leave of the party

Draz nods to Eglantine and turns back to where it seems Elyse is about to shed light on the situation.

Alianthe has left.

Theowyn's brilliant blue eyes take on a more serious expression, his manner somehow becoming more royal-like where as previous he was simply being noble. Theowyn has always disliked formal ceremonies, but this one is different. With the hand taking a firm hold of hers when she searches for him, Theowyn leads her toward the newly pronounced Princess. He stays quiet, for the tale to continue.

Alwyne inclines her head at the Cairhienin couple. "Hopefully we have the opportunity to meet again."

Mouse steps closer to Kae, frowning. Just what is going on here, and why's everyone staring at Kae? Princess? What is all this nonsense?! She cradles the cat close, looking up at Kae, then back at the Kandori guards and the Royalty.

Kae moves a hand to rest once more on Mouse's shoulder, looking somewhat stunned. In fact, it is only her stubborness that has kept her here this long. "I think... I should be going." She draws Mouse a little closer to her, "..._we_ should be going..." her voice is quiet, the protest somewhat feeble. So far.

Durnik has left.

Eglantine blinks. Royalty? She clasps her hands round her glass, watching.

Maricca remains close to her husband so as not to get separated among the big people there.

Rezna makes his way through the crowd almost getting stepped on once or twice before finally...escaping. he snags one more glass of wine from a passing servant and quickly drinks it down...something to wet his whistle before departing

Alwyne turns her attention to Nevin as the couple moves off. "If I do not have the opportunity to thank you later, I would like to say that it was a truly well-done gathering. The painting was most...fascinting." She glances at the slowly-increasing numbers of people surrounding the girl, then says, "If I might ask you briefly, though, the name of the Murandian from whom you obtained it?"

Deleamar stands, and walks over to the gathering crowd. "Make way, make way," he says, though heated glances and a threatening fists are doing a better job then words in dispersing people.

Tigare changes her stance, looking up at Nevin.

Kellian blinks as he begins to see what is happening here. Frowning faintly. He says softly,"How amazing.." staring at the Prince with a smiling now dawning on his features.

A hint of a frown enters Elyse's features at over-hearing Kae's sentiment to wish to go, and she lifts her chin, just as her voice lifts as well, toward Kae who is now before her with Theowyn's guiding arm, " . . . and though a tremendous effort was made to find her, Princess Etania Coralie Kamikatsu, was never found, and presumed a traic loss . . . " her voice melancholy, then lifts again, as Elyse smiles, "Until now . . . my sister," her cornflower blue eyes fill with silent tears and she moves a step more forward, intending to take Kae into her arms for a long-overdue and warm embrace--if the blind Princess can find her, of course.

Nevin replies to Alwyne, "His name is Dienes. One Lord Ressan Dienes. He was headed north, for relatives in Tar Valon, he said."

Mouse puts herself protectively in between Kae and the Princess and whispers, "She said she wants to go. We're going." She glares at Theowny, then at the Kandori guards, daring them to do something about it, as if a scrawny 10 year old could stop them.

Theowyn leads Elyse a few steps further until they are within arm's reach of Kae, and assuming she does not run, he does guide her toward Kae into the embrace. If she does run, she might not get very far, Theowyn already setting his body between the two Princess' his free arm motioning toward Kae. Or, er, Etania.

Alwyne ahs, then replies, "Well, I thank you. If I ever am in need of a painting of quality..." She smiles politely, then turns her full attention to the scene at hand.

Eglantine quietly moves to a bench, with a slightly apologetic glance at the men she stands with.

Kellian nods his head to Eglantine, "If you will excuse me." And makes his way toward Elyse, Kae and his br..er..The Prince.

As Deleamar gets to a better view, for after all he is not that tall, he frowns at the unfolding scene. "Get out of here while you still can, Kae," he warns, Light burn who is listening. "They will eat you alive."

As Eglantine leaves, Kahlil uses the opportunity to go over to the painting and greet Lord Nevin.

Rezna heads out along with his wife

Rezna goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Rezna has left.

Maricca leaves with Rezna.

Maricca has left.

Kae speaks quietly but firmly, "My name is Kae..." she insists, edging backward a bit as she draws the halves of her cloak securely over her shoulders self-consciously. "I.. I don't understand this, I only came to perform.." she says, glancing in the direction of the commotion raised by Deleamar's carving his way through the gathered crowd. At his words, she swallows and moves a hand to Mouse's shoulder. "Come, little sister... we must away. The Princess is obviously faitigued..." . o O ( And the guards are all crazy. )

As everyone leaves, Draz just leans back against the wall, sipping his wine thoughtfully while watching the goings on with quite a bit of amusement.

Nevin stands between Tigare and Alwyne, watching the difficult scene play out.

Mouse steps back with Kay, walking backwards and keeping her grey eyes on Princess, Prince, and guards alike, though that means shifting her gaze. She's used to that. She nods, in response to Kae, whispering. "Yes. Let's go."

Kellian steps up behind Kae and Mouse then,"Might I be of some help?" He seems to be talking to the Prince, but including the two in front of him in the question.

Tigare watches, eyes curious when she catches sight of Mouse.

Kahlil bows formally to Nevin, Tigare, and Alwyne as he comes closer. "My Lord, my Ladies." At the same time as bowing though, he watches the unfolding situation out of the corner of his eye.

"The only help you can offer, Captain, is to get out of there way." Deleamar seems quite firm in this.

Alwyne turns at the sound of Kahlil's voice and inclines her head politely, still quite aware of the scene occuring nearby.

Nevin inclines his head to Kahlil. "Master Kahlil, welcome." He frowns, though, at Deleamar's words.

Tigare nods seriously to Kahlil. "Good evening." Polite.

Kellian seems firm as well. "Sir, I will escort them out myself, but first they should listen to what the Princess has to say. The truth about one's parentage can be painful. But it is still truth. Is it not my Prince?" He looks to Theowyn then. Awaiting his word to either stop them or let them go it seems.

Eglantine looks toward Kellian, with a slight frown, standing.

Sev sees the tense moment unfold, and promptly breaks it, with a cheerful "Hurrah! The patch-ed cloak hath hidden a veritable princess at the harp! What a tale this be, indeed!"

Deleamar retorts right back at Kellian. "Listen to me, 'sir.' Light burn whose parents are whose. If the Ladies want to go, then they shall. Don't match me in wills, Captain."

Draz grins slightly and looks about for Eglantine. Spotting her, he walks over and seems thoroughly amused, "Unbelievable... if ye was to tell me that me own parents were really kings an' queens, Eglantine, I'd not be considerin' it painful."

Sev raises his glass, no doubt drawing more than a few bystanders into the same gesture, and, seemingly, fades back into the thinning throng.

Kellian looks up into Deleamar's face and (pauses)

Nevin inclines his head to Kahlil. "Master Kahlil, welcome." He frowns, though, at Deleamar's words.

Tigare nods seriously to Kahlil. "Good evening." Polite.

Kellian seems firm as well. "Sir, I will escort them out myself, but first they should listen to what the Princess has to say. The truth about one's parentage can be painful. But it is still truth. Is it not my Prince?" He looks to Theowyn then. Awaiting his word to either stop them or let them go it seems.

Eglantine looks toward Kellian, with a slight frown, standing.

Sev sees the tense moment unfold, and promptly breaks it, with a cheerful "Hurrah! The patch-ed cloak hath hidden a veritable princess at the harp! What a tale this be, indeed!"

Deleamar retorts right back at Kellian. "Listen to me, 'sir.' Light burn whose parents are whose. If the Ladies want to go, then they shall. Don't match me in wills, Captain."

Draz grins slightly and looks about for Eglantine. Spotting her, he walks over and seems thoroughly amused, "Unbelievable... if ye was to tell me that me own parents were really kings an' queens, Eglantine, I'd not be considerin' it painful."

Sev raises his glass, no doubt drawing more than a few bystanders into the same gesture, and, seemingly, fades back into the thinning throng.

Kellian looks up into Deleamar's face and (pauses)

Elyse blinks, tears streaming silently down her cheeks, as Mouse interrupts her embrace with her sister, and then the voice of Deleamar which she ercognizes after a moment, and her voice goes cold as she states through gritted teeth in the direction of Deleamar's voice, "You . . . wound . . me, Sir . . ." then turns her head towards Kae, her vacant tearful gaze falling past her sister's shoulders, "Please," she says with obvious pain in her voice, "I know . . . I'm sure this is difficult for you, but you must understand, the Royal birthmark," she states, moving to pull the off-the-shoulder hem down further, too much further for propriety's sake, but a pox on propriety, she must make her sister see . . . ironic that. With her own Royal mark of a five pointed star revealed on Elyse's shoulder blade, Elyse turns slightly, hoping she is offering a good vantage point to her sister, "Do you not mark it? Please, Kae . . . Etania . . . come to the palace and we can . . . discover the truth more . . . don't run from your blood, my dear sister," nearly to fall to weeping at the prospect. Sohai rises at this, and the other Kandori follow, prepared to try and stop the rediscovered Princess from fleeing.

Eglantine nods to Draz, face still concerned.

Theowyn watches Elyse's tears, the pain and joy that she's managed to produce in just a matter of moments. To Kellian, he simply nods in thanks, likely only catching have the Captain's words, but realizing the sentament. "Indeed, one should not run from their true blood. Tai'shar Kamikatsu." Those of the Old Tongue would note Tai'shar means 'true blood' or 'true blood of' when in that context. Theowyn finally breaks his sights on Elyse to look to Kellian. "The Kandori will handle the matter of the newly pronounced Princess," he looks down at Mouse. "And her friend." The Prince has not noticed Deleamar, not by sight, but he certainly has heard the words. "Insure the moment is not broken for the sisters, Captain." That is all the instructions he gives to Kellian. And the moment, well, it is sort of half of one considering the retreat of the older Princess.

Deleamar shakes his head, unmoved. "Sorry Princess. I know about family, more then a girl your age. And what seems better for the whole is often times not good for the indivisual. If Kae wants to go, let her. You would keep her from her own life?" Harsh words, but Deleamar is a harsh man.

Mouse glares up at Theowyn, whispering, "Her -sister-. By her own words, not those of some stranger!" She steps a little closer to Kae, going on with, "Can't make us stay. Ain't broke no laws!"

Kyleigh has arrived.

Eglantine moves toward Nevin, suddenly decisive, though with an apologetic glance to Draz as she steps away.

Sev comes forward again, this time much closer to the tableau.

Kellian turns to face Deleamer,"Sometimes one runs from that which they fear. But in doing so they deny themselves. I must insist sir, that while you are welcome to express your views, that you do not intervene in this matter."

Painful? Not really. Daft? Yes, that's a good word for what Kae is finding it at this particular moment. She swallows again, finding her mouth very dry. Most especially as she sees the younger woman's own mark. Aye, she recognizes it to be identical to her own. After a moment, she clears her throat and offers, "I... would welcome the chance to speak further with you on this, your Highness... but I do not think that now is a very good time. I am... overwhelmed, and would not have this.. event overshadow the reason for this.. remarkable gathering." for a gleewoman, she's sure having a hard time figuring out what to say. As she speaks she continues to edge backwards until she bumps Sohin, and glances over her shoulder to cast the a tiny glare in the guardsman's direction.

Deleamar looks back to Kellian, face turning darker as the man addresses him. "Do not talk to me as if I know nothing, boy!" He tries to shoulder his way towards Kellian. "I will speak my opinion wherever, and whenever I please! Do you understand me?"

Alwyne's gaze wanders across the tableau, from the young gleewoman to the guards to the princess to the crowd, to the loud Deleamar.

Draz glances aside, "I do not be thinkin' it'd be a good idea to be lettin' 'er leave alone with this revelation an' the events in an' out of the city of late, eh Countess?" He blinks, "Cou..." And then he sees Eglantine has moved, so he turns back to watch what the nobility do.

Alwyne tucks a wisp of hair behind her ear, touching her temple as she does so.

Sev looks to Kae. "Your Highness, some roads take us to where there is no going back therefrom. This, I know. Allow your good self this moment, for momentous it is Let your sense of the tale lead you this night... "

Kellian clasps his hands behind his back. "No. I do not understand. I do hope you do not intend to proceed on this path you are taking sir." He stares up at Deleamar, unmoved. "If you wish to engage in heated discussion we should move this outside so as not to disregard the pleasure and presence of the other guests.

Sev says "And the Light illume you.""

A scream preceeds an entrance into the Great Hall, muffled but still audible. "No! Don't hurt me!" The doors burst open and a frantic Kyleigh stumbles in, nearly tripping on her skirts. A servant is not quick enough and she crashes into him, sending the both of them tumbling to the ground in a crash of metal platter and shattering glass.

Sev bows again, nobility to foreign royalty...

Elyse lets her hands fall back to her sides, squeezing her eyes shut and clenching her hands to fists. Her balance waivers a bit, not having a an arm or a piece of furniture to lean on now. Tears continue to fall, "Her Highness Princess Etania," she announces with a shakey voice, "is of course free to go where she pleases." Her head bent as she weeps silently, continuing, "With proper Honor Guard escort, of course." And with that, Sohai bows deeply, to both Princess' then gesturing to the other Kandori Honor Guard to split up, and directing who will accompany Elyse and who will accompany Kae. Then all the guards turn to Kyleigh's commotion.

Alwyne turns with remarkable calm to see what the spectacle is.

Sev is upright in a moment, and turns tothe door, either to catch the stumbling lady or guard against what may come through the door.

Deleamar nods, and when he speaks again, it is deathly cold. "Burn the guests, Captain. I will teach you manners right no.." as the sudden entrence of Kyleigh is heard, Deleamar turns towards the door. "Light!" Giving another look back to Kellian, he pokes the man in the chest. "We are not done yet." He then moves towards the fumbling Kyleigh.

Tigare turns toward the door, blinking, and takes a step or two that way.

At the sound of the scream, Draz's attention turns towards Kyleigh, his eyes seeming to search out other things in her general direction before falling on her. Subtely, he shift the stone he holds in his hand, sharp edge presented. Obviously a buffoon to think it offers any protection.

Sev looks to whomever is first to the door. "Go it!" he says, and bends to help the lady up.

Alwyne quickly walks over to the young woman.

Kahlil looks to Nevin to see if he knows what is happening.

Theowyn's both arms come around Elyse, the Warder moving swiftly enough to stand slightly behind her now. He helps steady her, and once satisfied he has her firmly within his grasp, his eyes settle on Kae. "Princess Etania, welcome to Andor. Though it is likely you have been here for some time, The First Prince of the Sword welcomes you in your newly pronounced title." Theowyn moves to the side of Elyse then, enough to bow formally to the Princess of Kae's level.

Wild eyes search for... something. Kyleigh seems surprised to sudden be on the floor, entangled with a just as confused servant. "Oh, don't concern yourself over m-" Suddenly the reason she was running returns to her memory again and she leaps up, or, tries to anyone, ignoring all offers of help. Her heel accidentally catches an only half smashed glass and that sends her tumbling back down with another shriek. Highly undignified for someone who otherwise appears to be a noble lady.

Kellian frowns faintly at that finger poking. He nods his head at two of the Queen's Guard that are in the room. They move toward him.

Sev catches Kyleigh before she hits the ground, and guides her aside from the doors as though something huge might come bursting through them.

Deleamar glares at Sev, but seeing the man is helping Kyleigh, it softens a little. "I will take her now, sir."

Tigare speaks very softly to Nevin. "They seem very near making a prisoner of her."

Sev hands Kyleigh over to Deleamar's care, managing a nod, as he reaches to do the same for the servant-girl.

The fear melts away as Kyleigh's soft brown eyes alight on Deleamar. Her lips curl upward in a smile. Her previous saviour all but forgotten she giggles and glides over to her betrothed. "There you are... I've been looking for you..." She idly adjusts the garland which is no longer there, instead lying smashed on the floor, but she hardly notices.

Eglantine glances at Tigare, flickering a quick smile, but she looks up to Nevin and nods.

Draz's lips quiver and he grabs a glass of wine to hide the laughter that threatens to bubble forth. Now he knows what goes on at these parties.

Nevin nods to Tigare, uncomfortably. "It's the Prince's decision -- and a difficult one," he says quietly, but his voice carries. "I'd better see what this is at the door. Stay with Eglantine." He walks quietly over to where Kyleigh has entered.

Sev takes the servant by the wrist and plucks her out of the way of a small rush of guards toward the doors...

Kellian speaks quietly to the guards, watching Deleamar, his own look softens as he watches the exchange. He and his guards stay were they are for now. Interfering with neither the Prince and Princess and Princess or with Delamar, Sev and Kyleigh.

Barydar guards do indeed hurry to the door, in the face of whatever may have been pursuing Kyleigh.

"Were you now?" Deleamar escorts Kyleigh towards the group around the Princesses, and he doesn't even look at Kellian. "Whatever for? Last I saw, you were still attending to the flowers in the garden."

Kae frowns as she watches Elyse, her "sister's" display of weakness not impressing her much. Still, she manages to restrict her reaction to a frown of disapproval rather than a look of complete contempt. Such would not do. She glances to Alwyne as the woman speaks, nodding faintly before jumping and turning at the sound of Kyleigh's entrance. Too much going on at once... she turns once more as the Prince begins speaking, managing a curtsey. "I thank you for your welcome, your Highness." she tells him, before she looks again to Sohi while the guard are split. No, she doesn't like this one bit. Not one bit. "My name is _Kae_." she speaks, correcting Elyse once more with a somewhat exasperated sigh. "And I did not need a guard to accompany me here, nor do I need one to escort me out." . o O ( Light, I'm never going to get paid. )

Seeing that Kyleigh is being taken care of and is apparently unharmed, Alwyne steps to the side and turns her attention back to the tableau on the other side of the room.

Eglantine bends over Tigare, speaking softly, pushing her hair back. Nodding.

Sev sets the flustered girl on her feet with a little smile, and turns again to the door, between the lady and what may pursue her.

Tigare protests, softly, but after a whisper or two she heads for the stairs.

One of the Barydar Guard officers comes back in, his men filing in behind him and returning to their places, most of them to the barracks. The officer approaches Lord Nevin, and speaks to him in a low voice for a moment.

Tigare ascends the Grand Staircase, arriving at the balcony above.

Tigare has left.

From the balcony above, Tigare descends from the balcony.

From the balcony above, Tigare has arrived.

From the balcony above, Tigare enters the Family Corridor.

From the balcony above, Tigare has left.

Oblivious to the commotion she seems to have caused, Kyleigh glides along beside Deleamar, smiling at him adoringly. "Yes, well, I decided to take the day off, and I was looking all over for you and then I saw this horrible man with the most enormous axe I've ever seen and I thought for sure he'd be the death of me, but it seems I'm alright now." She flutters her eyelashes happily.

Deleamar tries to remember if Demonder had his axe on tonight. Light burn that cousin of his. "Yes, well, he seems to be gone now. As long as you are here, though, I would like you to meet some," he smiles wryly, "friends of mine."

Sevupon hearing no further commotion, turns back to see how the young lady is doing, and pauses. He looks to where he dropped his wineglass, and retrieves another one, breathing once, as though to relax.

Eglantine follows Tigare to the stairs, watching until she's vanished, then moves back into the Hall. She looks from Nevin and the guards, to the crowd around the princess, not happy about either. And she smiles, apologetically, to Draz.

Elyse is indeed comforted by the Prince and says to Etania, "As you wish, Princess Kae," not willing to drop the title no matter what name she wants to go by, "Lt. Commander you will see to matters?" meaning the escort for Kae whether she likes it or not. Sohai nods, "Yes, Your Highness," to Elyse, turning away after a bow to both Princesses and moving to address his subordinates, discussing their new orders in hushed tones. Elyse seems to little by little calming, at least her tears do not flow so much at the rejection from her long-lost sister. She dabs at them with the pads of her fingers, not having a hankerchief and apparently not having been offered one by any of the gentleman about, "But I do hope, Princess Kae, that you will come and visit us at the palace tomorrow, when you have had a chance to think matters over?" hope in her voice, "We've much to discuss . . ."

There is a slight crooking of a delicate, brown eyebrow as Kyleigh catched that wry grin. What to make of it though she is uncertain so she just smiles pleasantly, "I suppose that is only fair." Perhaps she is referring to introducing him to some of her own 'friends.' She looks around expectantly as though the people of whome Deleamar speaks will have friend written on their forhead.

Nevin turns from the guardsman, seemingly unworried for the moment about anything outside.

Sev sips his wine. The serving girl, stunned, straightens her dress and hair as best she can, moving to clean up the minor catastrophe of the tray she had been carrying.

Alwyne glides through the crowd until she is almost on top of the small group of people.

Eglantine moves toward Nevin, a bit tentative, face concerned.

Theowyn would not be his princely self if he did not offer Elyse a hankerchief, and as she begins to tab at her moist cheeks, Theowyn does produce the cloth. With his own hand, he wipes a few tears away, and offers the cloth to Elyse. Whatever else is occurring within the room seems to escape his attentions.

Draz walks over to Eglantine, having handed his wineglass to one of the servers. He mutters to Eglantine, "... Countess,... do not be thinkin'... remain... like... madman. I do... look... from..."

Nevin murmurs a reassurance to the unnerved servant girl before going to meet Eglantine.

Deleamar points to Kellian first. "That man is not a friend." That said, he then shoves his way through the crowd once again. "That is the First Prince, though you have met him. There is Princess Elyse from Kandori, and that is Kae." The omission of princess is obviously intentional. "I think that little one's name is Mouse..the rest I don't know, I'm afraid. The usual noble fools, as you can see."

Eglantine slows and nods to Draz, wincing and smiling at something that he says. "Oh, don't do that." Softly. "It was good of you to come, and I will tell him."

Draz doesn't hover near Eglantine long, seeing her otherwise occupied. He casts another glance at the two princesses, the prince and the poor serving girl who got knocked down before heading to the forecourt.

Sev sidles next to his cousin. He offers a bemused look and trys to catch up on the royal scene.

Draz goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Draz has left.

Mouse watches these developments closely, glaring at everyone except Kae. In fact, she goes so far as to bare her teeth at Sohai. Guard or not, and no matter how much larger he is than her, she obviously plans to stay between Kae and him. The cat in her arms, picking up on his human's emotions, flattens his ears and looks around, trying to decide who to hiss at first.

Eglantine asks Nevin, quietly, "No trouble out there?" Glancing for a moment at the trouble in here.

Nevin shakes his head to Eglantine. "No. We have plenty in here, I'd say. Thanks for sending Tigare upstairs."

Kellian marches out with his men then. Since everything seems in order here.

Kellian goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Kellian has left.

Alwyne turns, finally hearing Deleamar's phrase for the rest of the noble contingent. She gives him an icy look. "You would call me a fool?"

Kyleigh nods, listening intently to everything he says. Kellian, not a friend, Theowyn, he looks familiar, ah yes, the one who had the guards put her at sword point, well not exactly but her memories do get a little twisted in that head of hers. A Kandori Princess, she nods and nods again. Noble fools, yes. She smiles, and then blinks. "Did you say one of your friends was a Mouse?" Not that that should seem strange to a woman who talks to plants, but it does.

Kae's hands are tense as they rest upon Mouse's shoulders, she barely managing not to grip the girl tightly in frustration. "Aye, Princess, I will come. But do not think you can pawn your guard off on me. I have no intention of being guarded." She's getting bolder, apparently. "I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself, and will gladly prove it to any who would put a hand on me or my sister." The way she keeps Mouse close to her might indicate to those who can see them that it is the little girl she speaks of... but Elyse may interpret it differently.

Eglantine nods. "It was too difficult for her to watch." Softly. Quieter, "I don't like it, myself."

"That is her name, love." Deleamar points to the small girl again. "At least, that is what I was told." He then goes on to explain the situation. "It seems that Miss Kae there is the long lost sister of the Princess Elyse."

Sev 's eyes drift to Deleamar again.

Deleamar then turns to finnaly address the blond haired woman. "Yes, I am. You are a noble, after all." He smiles thinly.

Nevin offers his arm to Eglantine. "I should speak to Kahlil; we were interrupted." Best for the moment to leave matters among the Kandori to themselves and the First Prince.

Sev looks to Deleamar, "Then you must be as well, to speak so. You call yourself a fool as well."

Kyleigh ahs as the situation becomes clear to her. She looks sympathetically to Kae, as she knows a bit about being a long lost sister herself. Fortunately before she can start remembering, and subsequently ranting, a glass of wine floating by, well actually it's the tray it's resting on that's floating... er... no someone's carrying it. Oh well, either way the glass gets plucked off the tray and lifted to Kyleigh's lips. "Aren't we a long way from Kandor though? They haven't come to usurp the throne have they?" She looks shocked, but not at Del's sudden turning away. She peers at the woman he addresses curiously.

Elyse takes the hankerchief with amurmurs thanks and a small smile, nodding in the direction of Kae's voice, "As you say, Your Highness," she intones gently, accepting her wishes reluctantly, and calling out, "Lt. Commander? I trust you apperciate the situation?" she asks vaguely. Princess Etania/Kae will be without obvious escort, but there will be escort, Sohai will make sure, "Yes, Your Highness," he replies to Elyse to that, turning back to his subordinates to murmur further instructions. "Then, in the morrow, Princess," Elyse tilts her head back to Kae, "I look forward to meeting with you again then," her hand on Theowyn's supporting arms tightens, "Forgive me, I feel I should retire," she says tiredly.

Eglantine nods to Nevin, rather reluctantly; she's not entirely willing to leave those matters along. Uncharacteristically close to, well, obedient, she nods. "Of course..."

Alwyne raises her eyebrow and continues in an icy voice, "I would take care to whom I was addressing myself, and not leap to conclusions."

Kae turns smoothly, her multicolored cloak swirling in her wake as she stalks toward the door in a rather unladylike manner, almost tripping over her skirts along the way. Trusting that Mouse will follow, she proceeds to ignore just about everyone on her way out aside from Deleamar (whom she nods to).

Kahlil glances around, having heard his name in a conversation somewhere.

Theowyn provides another appropriate bow to Kae, insuring that she begins to get used to it. One would think such a bow would have some affect considering it is coming from The First Prince. That thought amuses him a touch. "Your Highness..." Theowyn turns to Elyse, and then is again distracted by Kae heading away. He shrugs slightly, and begins to escort the Princess out as well.

Mouse does, indeed, follow, hissing at Sohai as she passes him. Twitch, hearing that, hisses, too. He'd hate to miss out on the fun. Mouse catches up to Kae as she steps through the door, whispering something up to her.

Without waiting for a reply, she turns to deal with the situation at hand, namely Kae's exit.

Deleamar raises an eyebrow. "Have you done anything to prove to me otherwise?" He shakes his head. "No." Nodding to the passing Kae, he smiles. "Heed my words, Kae. Run. Run like the wind." Putting all thoughts out of his head except for Kyleigh, he nods again. "Indeed, Kandor is a ways away. And from the look of things between the First-Prince and the Princess Elyse, maybe they are trying to usurp the throne."

Nevin arrives at Kahlil's side, only to apologize again. "It appears that my Guest of Honor is departing; I should speak to her. I will be back shortly."

Kahlil nods and smiles. "Quite a gathering," he says, allowing for interpretation.

Sev looks to Deleamar. "My cousin need prove nothing to you. You exemplify what you most decry.

Eglantine watches Kae's departure, relaxing somewhat. That much is all right, then.

Kae nods to Mouse as she holds the door open for her, sparing a glance back toward the guardsmen as if to ensure that they aren't forming up to make a mad dash after her as soon as her back is turned.

Alwyne is apparently distracted, and does not seem to hear Deleamar's final words. She makes her way towards the exit.

Sev turns to Alwyne as if there were no more to be said to the man. To Alwyne, he says. "Such the pity." He sips from his glass.

Deleamar blinks as suddenly another man talks to him. "Exuse me sir, but I am talking to my betrothed. Please move along." He turns back to Kyleigh.

Mouse goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Mouse has left.

Twitch leaves with Mouse.

Twitch has left.

Kae goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Kae has left.

Eglantine had not yet completed following Nevin to Kahlil, so she meets him on the way back, and will fall into step with him if he fails to object.

Sev laughs and does so. "Aye, the night's merriment is spent, without frugality, I observe."

Elyse nods, starting to follow Theowyn's guidance, then then flinches, visibly stricken by Deleamar's comments. She looks like the entire evening was too much for her, her balance waivering and she puts a hand to her head.

Alwyne goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Alwyne has left.

Kyleigh nods sadly, as if she dealt with things like this a hundred times a day. "I know nothing good could come from that one." She blinks at Sev and frowns, his words a bit of a muddle to her but the tone is clearly recognizable. That all vanishes as Deleamar calls her his betrothed though, and she is all happy giddiness again, the glass in her hand remembered and sipped from. Nobles, fools. Light if Deleamar said the sky was green she would probably agree. She glances around again and frowns softly, "It seems most of your friends are leaving though beloved."

Nevin walks briskly over to where Theowyn stands with Elyse, shortening his stride only slightly as Eglantine falls in beside him. "Your Highness, my most sincere apologies for the way that all of this has turned out."

Sev bows deeply to the nobility present, and trots to catch up with Alwyne. "Though never was frugality in merriment paid with interest... though when spent, one hopes it was in fact well-disbursed..."

Sev goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Sev has left.

Eglantine follows Nevin, ending very near him when he reaches the Princess, but not quite so close as he is. Her eyes have a slightly startled look for a moment.

"They do seem to be, at that. Too much excitement for one night, I guess." Holding out his arm for Kyleigh to take, he gestures towards the door. "But I hate to be the last to leave."

Theowyn's icy blue eyes settle on Deleamar as he begins his escort of Elyse. They are much like his sister's, and seem to promise as much as his royal blood is worth in Andor. He sets to comment, and then shakes his head lightly in returning his attentions to the woman he has been escorting all evening. The members of the Queen's Guard follow, four of them, appearing from all sides of the room. At Nevin's approach he does nod in a light gesture.

Elyse manages a weak smile, "No need to apologize Duke Nevin," her head tilted respectfully in the direction of Nevin's voice, though her features seem to still be listening to Deleamar's voice, "For your event tonight has given Kandor the greatest gift a Kingdom could ever hope for: Reunion." bittersweet as it was, it was still a step. She will be sure to have a missive sent to Chachin before the evening fully draws to a close, "Please extend my aplogies to your guests for the disruption," spoken as she leans a bit more heavily on Theowyn's offered arm.

Kahlil leaves the painting and, circling around the center of the room, refills his wine glass.

Could not page Delanthear

Nevin bows gracefully to the Princess. "Then please accept my wishes that the reunion becomes one which will result in amity and affection on all sides, Your Highness. Thank you again for gracing our home." He nods to Theown as well, and steps back, clearing the way for their departure.

Kyleigh slides her arm in her betrothed's, seemingly unaware that she is about to wander out with one of their glasses, but she has such little concern for the eatery in general that that should come as no susprise. "And as luck would have it I have something to show you." She smiles a small, secretive smile. She's not paint covered for once, so it couldn't be that... a mystery it seems.

Eglantine steps back as well, with a momentary smile.

Theowyn nods lightly to Nevin. "Thank-you, Duke Nevin." He watches Elyse carefully, hoping she is well before he continues their escort out from the Manor.

"You do?" Deleamar begins to escort Kyleigh towards the door, his eyes curious. "Whatever could that be? Oh, just a moment, love." He stops their progress to look at the not-too-happy Prince and teary eyed Princess. "Please, Prince Theowyn, don't give me that look. I know the mannerisms of a man head-over-heels for a woman." He gives a fond look to Kyleigh. "And I won't state the obvious, Prince Theowyn, but you know as well as I do who I mean. And Princess, I mean no offense to you. My comments tonight were for the best interests of Kae. It would be best for her not to become the Princess you so hope she will be. A sister, yes, but no princess. The intrigues of the court and politics are no realm for a girl such as she. However, if you choose to pursue your course, remember what I said when Kae is taken away from you, in ways I won't even mention."

Nevin turns, then, to let Theowyn and Elyse depart somewhat less conspicuously than they arrived, and walks more lightly back over to Kahlil, still escorting Eglantine if she comes along.

Eglantine will indeed come along, keeping step with Nevin in this direction.

"Your Grace, my Lady," Kahlil says quietly as the two approach. "You do have a certain flair for interesting gatherings, do you not?"

If he hears what Deleamar has said, Nevin does not react to it. Instead, he replies to the Illianer, "It seems that I do, Master Kahlil. Sometime, the three of us," he gestures to Eglantine with his free hand, "must have an uninterupted conversation."

Kahlil smiles. "There do no seem to be time for that. I did mean to speak with several people tonight, but I did no speak with any. Events did be disruptive for talk, although wonderful for gossip."

Eglantine smiles, her face relaxing. "Yes, we must." She nods to Kahlil. "It is difficult, with so many people, to say more than word or two."

Nevin suggests to Kahlil, "Come over again, sometime soon, on a more purely social call, if you would?"

Elyse pauses long enough to steady herself, then continues further as Theowyn begins to escort her towards the escort. Her lingering escort of Kandori Guardsmen, including Sohai, fall into positions around her and Theowyn. She stops abruptly at Deleamar's address, her features, no longer so teary now with Theowyn's hankerchief, harden considerably at Deleamar's words. The borderlander grits her teeth and offers a reply, indignation evident on her features as her sightless eyes fall in the direction of Deleamar's voice, "Forgive me, Lord Deleamar, I find it difficult for you to know what is good for anyone equal to or above your station. Wagging your tongue so rudely at me, Lord Deleamar, gives me pause to wonder at your own legitamate heritage--and were I not without the gift of sight I would make you feel the wounds you have caused my heart tonight. I shall not engage in any associations with you, Lord Deleamar, and you will be so kind as to remove yourself from any associations with any of House Kamikatsu. You *will* remove yourself from my presense at once! Good evening, Sir!" She is bristling mightily, something that until now, has never ever ever been seen by Princess Elyse, who usually has a pleasant and patient disposition, and would never suggest a noble was a bastard.

Kahlil nods thoughtfully and smiles. "I do plan to come again, Your Grace, but I do also need to speak to others, although no as urgently now that I have seen Queen Aislynn. A purely social call does sound nice; I rarely do be able to have them."

Deleamar shrugs, but doesn't respond back to the Princess. If she wants to think him a bastard, so be it. He just doesn't like nobles, even being one himself "Let us be off, Kyleigh. They will find the truthfulness of my words soon enough."

Nevin offers, "Well, at least now you've had a chance to see Lord Turail and Lady Rennar, if those are the people you had in mind."

Kahlil gives a slight shrug. "'See' does be the appropriate word there, I do believe."

Eglantine asks, "You were unable to reach them?"

Kahlil laughs, "So to speak. I did enter and the Kandori did begin."

Nevin notes, "For what it's worth, Kahlil, I think that I overheard Lady Rennar saying something to the effect that she needed to make more social visits. So you might well have another chance soon."

Kahlil raises his eyebrows at the prospect. "That does bear looking in to."

Theowyn takes a steadied breath as he listens to Elyse's words, and for that matter, that gives another pair of royal eyes that watch Deleamar. Not that it seems to matter to the Roesone Lord, though certainly a cool anger sets itself to the Lord. "Lord Deleamar, a recently appointed Lord of the High Court," he speaks in that well trained voice. "You will not be welcomed in the High Court. Such a tongue twists only a path of convenient truth to set in the hurt of others has no place to speak before the honorable nobles of Andor within the High Court. Your career has been a short one." Theowyn disregards Deleamar, his eyes settling on Elyse with a slightly lowered tone he continues, "My apologies, Princess."

Eglantine nods. "She did seem to be in very fine spirits, tonight."

"For the most part, she was," Nevin agrees. "There was some rather more somber discussion about Fal Moran, though, that I didn't understand?"

Deleamar pauses just as soon as he is about to exit, and looks back to Theowyn. "No! You can't! My Prince, I have done nothing wrong tonight!"

"That do be strange," Kahlil notes. "Did there be any Shienarans here tonight? I did no mark any."

Nevin shakes his head. "No, although amid all the crowd, I might have missed someone."

Kahlil asks, "What did the news be? About Fal Moran."

Nevin nods to Kahlil. "It seemed to make Duke Turail especially sad. Did you catch any of that, Eglantine?"

Eglantine shakes her head apologetically. "I didn't hear it - I only saw the Lady, and she seemed to be laughing and joking, when I saw her."

Kahlil sets his shoulders decisively. "I do suppose I will look into it then. Bad news in Shienar does too often mean bad news for all."

Elyse takes a deep steadying breath, warmed and supported by Theowyn's words, though she idly wonders if Kamikatsu has made an enemy tonight. She nods to Theowyn's apology, "Thank you, Prince Theowyn." She remains tightly on his arm, her head tilted to teh attention of Theowyn.

Theowyn watches Deleamar's sudden outburst. Well, not so sudden. "A Lord of the High Court must possess opinion, courage, and compromise. The High Court gatheres for the benefit of the Queen's Rule, Lord Deleamar. It is not a place where you can wag your tongue at will." He pauses then. "And here, this is not a place where you may fling insults at the guests of Queen Aislynn herself. Royal Guests at that, Deleamar. From the Nation of Kandor. Is this the sort of nonsense that I am to have before Queen Aislynn? To have before Princess Elyse and Princess? As a Lord of the High Court you are deemed qualities that you have not displayed this evening."

Nevin replies, "Well, while you have been here but a short time, Master Kahlil, you proved to have your ear to the ground this week. You knew of the fall of Lugard before I did. Perhaps you are well suited to ferret out the story about Fal Moran."

Eglantine asks, "Have there been any recent hints, of trouble there?"

"I do fear Fal Moran will be somewhat harder," Kahlil says, sipping his wine. "Rumors do be far less likely to travel here from Shienar than from Murandy. But no, I have no heard of troubles in Shienar. But then, I have been in Caemlyn for several weeks and before that in Altara. Neither would receive that sort of news."

Deleamar inclines his head, and for a brief moment, regret does touch his eyes. "I do apologize, Prince. Admittadly, I do tend to speak my mind, sometimes to the hurt of others. For any insult I gave you or the Princess, I am sorry for, and I will hold my tongue in future meetings." He takes a deep breath. "However, I don't think that the fact I am blunt is a bad trait, Prince. I find it refreshing when one speaks their mind instead of glossing it over with falsaties and lies. My removal from the court, though I see your reason for it, would be to Andor's loss I think. That said, I do apologize again for my words." He bows at that, carefully hiding a grimace. No matter how much it hurts him to apologize to anyone, the High Court is one of his obsessions.

Eglantine nods to Kahlil. "It does seem as if trouble is spreading everywhere..."

Nevin sighs. "You are probably right, Kahlil. In any event, I think that I had best get upstairs and see about Tigare -- from what Eglantine tells me, she was somewhat upset by a good deal of this, so I hope that you'll forgive me?"

Elyse bows her head slightly, cheeksflushed, mind spinning at all events that have occured on this single night. She merely awaits quietly for her Prince's guide forward ad to the carriages, where she looks forward to having his comforting arms around her. She remains silent during Theowyn and Deleamar's exchange. Sohai and the others watch quietly as well, merely waiting for their departure.

Kahlil nods to Nevin. "Of course. The night does grow late anyway." To Eglantine: "It does be heartless of me to say so, but while I do no like trouble, it does keep me in my job. If everyone did get along, I would no be needed, would I?" He smiles and sips again.

Eglantine nods to Nevin, seriously. "Good night." Reaching, briefly, to touch his arm. She smiles to Kahlil. "You don't cause it, so there's no blame in making your living about it.'

Nevin chuckles at Kahlil's comments, and briefly kisses Eglantine on the cheek. "I'll see you later, darling."

Eglantine brightens, face flushing and suddenly no longer tired. Another "Good night" to Nevin, her voice warmer.

Theowyn watches Deleamar rather soundly, a mask beyond a mask, those icy blue eyes watching. The Prince shows no hint of contemplation. "Duke Turail will receive the decision." The Queen's Guard set around the pair, and the Kandori Guard, as Theowyn escorts the Princess out from the manor where he to is eager to offer her comfort from the strains of the evening.

Nevin smiles to Eglantine, and heads up the stairs.

Nevin ascends the Grand Staircase, arriving at the balcony above.

Nevin has left.

From the balcony above, Nevin descends from the balcony.

From the balcony above, Nevin has arrived.

From the balcony above, Nevin enters the Family Corridor.

From the balcony above, Nevin has left.

Kahlil laughs. "I do no cause it intentionally, at any rate, although many would and do say so."

Deleamar bows again. "Very well, Prince." He leaves as well with a worried Kyleigh at his arm, not giving a look back.

Deleamar goes through the large oaken double doors leading to the Forecourt.

Deleamar has left.

Elyse is easily lead away by the Prince, no resistance."

Eglantine smiles at him. "I can't believe that you do."

You go back outside, into the Forecourt.

Forecourt: Barydar Manor, Caemlyn

This broad courtyard is mostly covered by carefully manicured lawns, ringed by elegant flowerbeds and gardens. At the far sides on both east and west there are slender dogwoods, and behind them far larger shadetrees. Flagstones provide a walkway to the manor house.

Torches to either side of the entrance to the Great Hall fill the courtyard with light amid the darkness. The boughs of the great elm trees are verdant, the smaller dogwoods brilliant with their blossoms. Gates open from the high hedges on the north, leading back to Crown of Roses Avenue. Facing the gates on the south are the doors to the Great Hall, and nearby to the southwest is the entrance to the Barracks. Around the Manor House to the southeast, a walkway leads to the back courtyard.

Obvious exits:

Walkway Great Hall Bronze Gates

Elyse has arrived.

Elyse arrives with Theowyn.

Reynard arrives with Theowyn.