#Adelise De'bayle

[jancisstuff]

Menphina’s Moon Dinner

Raw Log Attached

https://pastebin.com/Wr2rqsJ5

Denz De'bayle places a oven mitt on the front of the cart. "... I hope I wrote down the right location." Denz De'bayle gazes upon you in deep reflection.

Hikari Inamoto performs an eastern greeting towards Aoki Miyamatsu. Carina De'bayle begins her steady climb up the stairs. Within her arms is a deep crimson bundle with a bubbly baby. Peering around with curious azure eyes, Aegisan donned a red knitted cap, resting just over his pointed little ears. "Good evening!" She beamed out. Killian Waltz: "Am I late?" Killian stage-whispers to Adelise. Jancis Milburga purses her lips, studying Denz for a minute to see if he ends up grinning. Adelise De'bayle: "No, I believe it is just beginning," she turns a sharp gaze over toward the man, her lips tugging upward slightly. "I like your shirt." Denz De'bayle didn't flash a grin, but the hyur's approach seemed to invalidate his worries. "Carina! You're here!" Jancis Milburga: "Carina! Good eve! A little Aegisan, too. Did Denz write down the right directions here? He is so worried about it." Lawrence Wallace fusses with the collar on his coat, lips pressed in a thin line as he tried to figure out of he even had the thing on right. Jancis Milburga walks over to wrap both mother and son into a hug. Killian Waltz: "You do?" Killian pats at his shirt automatically with his free hand. Tetebino Hihibino rubs the back of his neck as he glances about, shrugging his shoulders, "Well, at least I won't get lost wondering where everyone's at." Carina De'bayle: "Of course I am? Why would I not be? I finally get to come out and actually do something after all this time," she snorts out. "I didn't get lost? As far as I know everyone got here fine. I've been here before?" She asks curiously. "How have you been fairing? I caught wind you have been unwell." Hikari Inamoto takes in a deep breath and smooths out the delicate, faded material of her suikan. She carefully pulls down on the sleeves, which seem just a little too high on her forearms. "..." Astrelle De'bayle turned an eye to Aoki, a soft smile painting across her lips. She motioned towards the various people littered about. "You'll be meeting quite a few of the House this eve." She blinked, then leaned passed Aoki to spy Tetebino. "And I will be meeting another, it seems." Adelise De'bayle: "I do. It is lovely colour," she nods, glancing behind her, "Law, I am glad you could make it." Lawrence Wallace: "This isn't mine." he states quickly, looking up with some alarm, as if he'd been called out on the fancy gear. "Ah, right I mean. Yes I'm glad to be part of the group when we're not all armed to the teeth."

Denz De'bayle smiles as he gazes over the bannister and watches the rest of the congregation gather. Moving before the stairs, he waved a hand out. "Come in, my friends! No need to wait!" Jancis Milburga bows her head a moment, "I have prepared best I can for everyone to visit and stop by. Though close to everyone has had a hard time of late. It is a start tonight, hopefully." She looks down at the happy bright-eyed bundle. "Though you will continue to be a great task of endurance, growing so much already." Killian Waltz: "What's not yours?" Jancis Milburga: "Let us head inside. There are drinks and Denz has been baking, baking, and I think he did some more baking." Adelise De'bayle: "What is wrong with it being yours?" She asks out, before turning toward Denz with a someone strained expression. "Mm, let us go inside." Aoki Miyamatsu gave a quick and playful curtsy in greeting to the Elezen woman and flicked her tail in her direction. "Exciting," she kept a smile on her lips as she spoke, and shifted her attention to follow Astrelle's, "Hmm? A friend of yours?" Killian Waltz: "Ahh..." Lawrence Wallace: "My coat. It's a bit too fancy for my liking, but I wanted to fit the theme of the evening." Adelise De'bayle: "Good evening Jancis." You smile at Adelise De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto fidgets with her jewelry, untangling some strands of hair from her earrings. "Nn..." Jancis Milburga: "Good eve, my sweet zinnia." Killian Waltz: "Oh. We're supposed to dress up?" Hikari Inamoto: "H--" Killian Waltz carefully guides his way up the stairs with his cane. Denz De'bayle: Sir... Tetebino? Tetebino Hihibino: "Heya!" Denz De'bayle: 'Tis been some time. Good to see you. Denz De'bayle offers Tetebino Hihibino a humble greeting. Hikari Inamoto: "...You mean you just wore normal...hmm. Well. I guess Killian and Adelise both dress well to begin with..." Killian Waltz: "Hello, Mister Tetebino...Lord Denz." Tetebino Hihibino: "You too! Sorry I haven't been around too much." Carina De'bayle: "Aegisan has been so excitable lately. I am sure he has looked forward to this event," she beams, as though the child even knew where he was. "Things have been quite stressful as of late. Hopefully things will go well tonight. Hydaelyn knows we need it." Adelise De'bayle thins her lips, nodding her head toward Jancis before silently heading inside. Denz De'bayle: Killian. How are you tonight? Astrelle De'bayle watches the lalafell move before offering Aoki a shrug. "I suppose he must know one of us." An appreciative glance was taken of Aoki's attire and Astrelle flashed her an approving grin. "I don't believe I've seen you in anything that wasn't eastern in look—I like your dress." Jancis Milburga nods and leads Carina along, following Adelise's wake. "Verily." Killian Waltz: "Um...I'm...alright, thank you. I think I lost Adelise..." Jancis Milburga: "Pray make yourself comfortable I will get some drinks shortly. You smile at Tetebino Hihibino. Carina De'bayle: "Mister Tetebino! I do not think we have ever met, have we?" Carina smiles down toward the Lalafell, and equally satisfied baby in her arms. Jancis Milburga asks Tetebino, "Would you like me to take that for you?" Tetebino Hihibino blinks and looks about as he steps in, nodding to Jancis as he realizes he's talking to her, "Err, yes, thank you." He pulls the axe from his back, as well as a sidebag that seems to be full of rocks. Tetebino Hihibino: "I think we met briefly, ma'am, but my memory's a bit scrambled, I think."

Jancis Milburga does her best to heft the ore-ladened bag, surprised at first, making a tidy pile at the table. "Please, come in, come in, have a seat." Killian Waltz: "H-hello..." Jancis Milburga: "Lord Killian!" Killian Waltz: "I'm not a lord," Killian says automatically. Carina De'bayle: "Ah, forgive me. Mine has been just a rough lately, having recently had a baby, these pat few moons past by like no other." Jancis Milburga waves at Killian, regardless. "Then no one is. You look so festive." Carina De'bayle: "I hope you enjoy the festivites!" Killian Waltz: "I do?" Jancis Milburga: "Oh yes. Your shirt is a lovely lavender." Killian Waltz: "I like lavender." Lawrence Wallace: "Ah, pardon me." Tetebino Hihibino: "No worries! I remember you had a bit of a tummy when we met, I'm glad to see that everything went alright." Jancis Milburga agrees, "It suits you. Pray do come in." You smile at Lawrence Wallace. Jancis Milburga: "Good eve, Lord." Killian Waltz smiles a little and steps further inside with his cane guiding his way. "Do you mind if I take a moment to familiarize myself with the room?" Carina De'bayle: "Quite so," she reaches up to adjust Aegisan's knit cap. "I should see to taking a seat still, I still find myself getting rather fatigued from standing too long. Goodness," she shakes her head, "I will need to adjust to actually being active more again." Lawrence Wallace dips his head, "Thank you for having us, Miss. Lady? Apologies, I'm not sure of how exactly to address you." Tetebino Hihibino continues to look about the room, rubbing his neck. More homely than he was used too, still. Jancis Milburga: "Oh! Forgive me! My name is Jancis! Jancis Milburga! I do not know your name either. I know you have a greatsword, though. And you deal quite well with wounds." Jancis Milburga: "How silly, no? You have been part of the house for some time." You smile at Hikari Inamoto. Lawrence Wallace can't help but give a rueful grin to that statement. "Ah, a reputation I seem to carry. Well Lady Jancis, I am Lawrence Wallace, but I would prefer to just be called Law, if that's alright with you." Adelise De'bayle seemed to simply stare into the fire for the time being, remaining mostly silent in her space. Jancis Milburga: "Hikari. You look lovely. Such embroidery. Welcome." Lawrence Wallace: "Pleased to meet you." Killian Waltz: "Um, I'm just going to..." Killian wanders off in a seemingly random direction, using a combination of his cane and an outstretched hand to identify anything he comes in contact with. Much touching of things is involved. You bow courteously to Lawrence Wallace. Carina De'bayle adjusted herself onto the couch, baby Aegisan reaching to tug at the womans fur collar. Smiling down at the baby, Carina peered over toward Adelise momentarily, before returning her attention toward the rest of the group. Jancis Milburga repeats slowly, "Lord Law. I can do that. It is nice to finally talk to you. Please please come inside more." Tetebino Hihibino took a moment looking at the railing, then to the surroundings before shrugging and taking a sit on the floor, humming a small tune as his eyes wander.

Hikari Inamoto: "A--ah--" Hikari's cheeks go a shade of pink to match her suikan. She straightens out the fabric carefully. "Th...thank you. It. Uh. It was one of my mother's things, so it's...it's kind of old. I only...uh. Only wear things like this if it's very special, so it's stayed in nice condition." The Doman smiles sheepishly, tucking a strand of hair behind her head. With a vague gesture towards Jancis, she adds, "I like your...uhm. Your dress. It's very cute." Lawrence Wallace: "Ah, of course. Yes I am glad to meet more of the house in a less stressful environment than the one we usually inhabit. Your house here is wonderful, by the way." Jancis Milburga softens immediately at the mention of Hikari's mother. "What a treasure. That makes tonight extra special! Everyone, did you hear that?" She turns around to the fireplace motioning to Hikari, then looks around for Killian for a moment. Hikari Inamoto goes rigid as a board. "..." Jancis Milburga nods in vivid agreement with Lawrence. "That is so true. And there has been so much of that of late with the war and, and Guillemont." She takes a slow breath, "It will be a good change to learn more about eachother when we are not relying on one another to stay alive." Carina De'bayle looks down toward Aegisan again, eventually standing to make way up the stairs herself. Killian Waltz is in the process of touching /everything/ as he examines the room. Jancis Milburga: "You do not have to show it so, Hikari. Please, go make yourself comfortable I will get drinks anon." Carina De'bayle: "Killian, how have you been?" She speaks out, perhaps unexpectantly toward the blind man. You smile at Astrelle De'bayle. You bow courteously to Aoki Miyamatsu. Astrelle De'bayle offers Jancis a smile. Astrelle De'bayle: "You wear it far better than my brother—but only just." Jancis Milburga: "Welcome! Good eve! Pray come in and be welcome. Menphina's joy this sun." Killian Waltz lifts his head up, blinking as he's addressed unexpectedly. "Uh, h-hello, Countess," he says awkwardly, straightening and brushing his free hand against his pants. "I was just--I was just trying to learn the room." Lawrence Wallace slips past the congregation at the doorway and makes his way to the snack bar. Hikari Inamoto blows out a breath in relief. She seems to have been holding it. Lifting up her lips in a weak smile, she gives a bow, then makes her way near to the fireplace. She places a hand on Jancis' shoulder as she passes. Carina De'bayle: "I can tell," she steps on over, the heels of her boots clicking to the woot beneath her with more intention of giving away her location. "But I mean to ask how you have been overall. This past sennight has been, a bit tiresome." Hikari Inamoto: "...D..." Jancis Milburga ||An small assortment of wines are lined up by trays of fruit and pastries, in typical De'bayle fashion. Many of them have the same red theme to them, cranberries and rolanberries decorating in and outside of the sweet breads. There is also tea, water, and other basic fair of cheese and meats. Hikari Inamoto: "...did they re-wallpaper the entire house just for the dinner...?" Killian Waltz: "Uh, I...I'm...I should be asking you that. How are you and Master Aegisan?" Jancis Milburga: "Master Valeriaux likes to have the boarding house stay inviting and refreshed throughout the Turn." Astrelle De'bayle: "Well. Food; drink?" Adelise De'bayle side-glances toward Hikari as she hears the woman speak. Shifting on her heels slightly, she cleared her throat. "I am sure Jancis is dedicated to her fesitivities..." annnnd she's gone. Shutting her mouth tightly, Adelise simply turns her hard stare back toward the fire. Aoki Miyamatsu leaned in a little closer to Astrelle and whispered. Or at least, spoke in a low volume, "I like how they've decorated." Then went back to normal tone. "Yes! Well, a drink, I think. Might as well start with that?"

Jancis Milburga: "May I get you something to drink? Eat? A pillow to sit on? I like the floor as well. Can always tell when people are walking close this way." Hikari Inamoto: Adelise could practically see the question on Hikari's face before she even opened her mouth to speak it. "...Are you doing alright?" She lowered her voice significantly to talk to her. Carina De'bayle: "We've been doing wonderfully. He is quite the obediant little boy, much to my own relief. Not nearly as huffy as Hestia," she laughs some, eventually stopping as she cleared her throat awkwardly. "Ah. But, we've been healthy. Thank you. That is in part thanks to your attention," she raises a hand to pat the mans arm. Lawrence Wallace was stuck debating between one set of snacks and another, truly a war inside his own mind. Tetebino Hihibino blinks and stops humming as he notices Jancis approach, giving her a warm smile, "Hello, miss. Uh, just water will be fine, I won't need a pillow, but thank you." You smile at Tetebino Hihibino. Astrelle De'bayle offers her agreement to both statements, moving to the bar to peer over the wine. Slender fingers brushed over several necks of different wine bottles before she grasped one, looking it over testing eye. She nodded her approval and made for where ever the glasses may be. "Pray feel free to mingle as well, Aoki - you needn't follow me all eve." Jancis Milburga: "That is Denz's favorite!" Adelise De'bayle turns her head slightly to look toward the woman, "I am. I am leaving tomorrow for Dravania. Quite exciting," she notes neutrally, not much excitement laced there. "And yourself? Your outfit is very colourful." Killian Waltz smiles a little at this. "I'm glad. I'm glad you're well. But it all went so smoothly, I don't think you even really needed me." Jancis Milburga asks loudly, "Anyone else care for water or something else?" She brings a cool glass of water back to Tetebino. "Once Denz comes inside after welcoming others we can have some more dinner and start stories." You smile at Alleria Surlaint. You hand over something to Tetebino Hihibino. Jancis Milburga: "Lady Alleria! Good eve! Come in!" Tetebino Hihibino takes the water in hand, taking a sip and holding it carefully in his hands, "Thank you!" Carina De'bayle: "Of course I did, having someone there that knew what they were doing, helped to make everything a lot less scary. Believe me." Jancis Milburga: "You are welcome." Alleria Surlaint: "Jancis it's so nice to see you!" Alleria Surlaint bows courteously to you. Alleria Surlaint smiles at you. Aoki Miyamatsu: "And here I was, excited to spend the evening with you." She teased, and flicked her tail in Astrelle's direction, then turned to look at the wines. "Any recommendations? I can barely tell them apart." Lawrence Wallace eventually settled on a napkin with one red-frosting covered tart, a single cracker with a slice of meat and cheese, and a chocolate cupcake. Truly a splendorous haul. He made his way over to the fireplace to hover awkwardly munching his selection. Jancis Milburga: "And you. You look so lovely. Oh Thaliak, I have been saying that to everyone tonight, but it is true. Everyone was so excited." Killian Waltz: "Well, I'm glad for that, then, even if it wasn't necessary. I would have done everything in my power to make sure you and the little lord pulled through hale and whole." Alleria Surlaint: "You look lovely as well." she peered around for a moment. "Everything looks fantastic in here as well!"

Alleria Surlaint motions joyfully to you. Hikari Inamoto blinks in surprise. "...Oh. Uhm. Dravania, really? You're...uhm." She clears her throat quietly. "...You'll have to tell me about it. When you get back." One hand lifts to fidget with one of her earrings, but she pauses, lowering her hand to her side again. "...Busy. There's still a lot to...uh. Take care of. Y...y'know. Uhm. Thank you. I don't usually wear pink, but, uh. I think it's nice." Jancis Milburga: "Thank you! So much! Can I get something for you?" Carina De'bayle: "Thank you for that," she smiles comfortingly, the expression lost on the blind man. "I am glad to have you here, Astrelle De'bayle made an amused noise, something between a laugh and a snort. "This one," she offered out the one she'd taken. "Coerthas knows naught but chill and wine—and zealotry but I don't speak of that, myself." She'd already poured herself some as Aoki had spoken, the glass now cradled between her fingers before her gaze flit up, catching movement. "Ser Lawrence!" Carina De'bayle: with Adelise. I feel she needs some company with  her family especially. After everything and all," she sighs, "but enough of that. I'm going to return downstairs and join everyone. Be seeing you!" Alleria Surlaint: "A water if you wouldn't mind. I can also find it myself as I'm sure you're busy entertaining everyone this eve." Alleria Surlaint smiles at you. Killian Waltz: "O-okay," Killian says uncertainly, returning back to his examination. Lawrence Wallace starts, nearly dropping his napkin. "Ah, yes. Hello Lady Astrelle." he turns to give a stiff-backed bow. "Glad to see you well." Adelise De'bayle: "Indeed. There is a lot to be done," she notes with a tight jaw. "I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening," she adds on the end, not seeming to respond to anything regarding her leaving. Jancis Milburga beams, "Coming right up! No no it is no trouble! I am busy, but that is the point." Aoki Miyamatsu chuckled as she took the offered bottle, "Well what ever happens from here on out, I'm blaming it entirely on you," and poured herself a glass. Her attention then shifted Lawrence, and she offered a smile and a wave with her free hand. "Hi!" Jancis Milburga: "Besides I have plenty of water. I think it is a favorite." Carina De'bayle: "Is it alright to sit over here, Jancis?" Carina prods out curiously. Jancis Milburga: "Yes! Yes of course!" You hand over something to Alleria Surlaint. Astrelle De'bayle tipped her hat to Lawrence. "Yes, hello. This is Aoki." She motioned to the Au Ra who had chimed in. "Aoki, this is Lawrence. I am surprised to see someone in armor and Denz /not/." Alleria Surlaint bows her head taking the glass with both hands. "Thank you." Lawrence Wallace offers Aoki a similar nod. "Hello. Pleased to meet you Miss Aoki." he held his arm out to the side and glanced down. "It's not exactly armor. More decorative than anything. There's a family I am friends with who insisted I wear this when I mentioned the festivities today." Jancis Milburga: "You are welcome. Hopefully we can catch up, soon. We thought with some dinner we could tell stories or sing songs. And talk. An-Denz!" Aoki Miyamatsu: "Nice to meet you too, Ser." Denz De'bayle comes in, holding the door for the entering roegadyn behind him. His head swivels to the woman. "Yes, love?" Jancis Milburga looks very excited, "Everyone looks so pretty." Tetebino Hihibino: ((Back from ninja afk))

Hikari Inamoto draws in a breath to say something more. She pauses, seeming to be stuck on what to tell her. "...Thank you for..." She falters partway though. "...Uh." Drawing her lips into her mouth, she goes silent. With a soft sigh, she puts one hand on Adelise's shoulder, then leans in to press a kiss at the top of her hat. Without futher explanation, she turns away, leaving Adelise to brood by the fire. Astrelle De'bayle cants her head in deference. "It is fetching on you." Her glass was brought to her lips and tilted so she could take a small sip. "Partaking in wine this eve, or merriment of any kind?" Adelise De'bayle knits her brows some at this display, her lips tightening together as her eyes return back toward the flames. Killian Waltz || A faint plucking of harp strings can be heard from the floor below. Tetebino Hihibino: "Hello, miss." Cinnabar Prentice 's first order of business upon crossing the threshold is to discreetly reach up and remove her beret; rolling neatly to tuck into a pocket with eyes panning about the decorations. She nearly forgets herself, looking to Denz and shining a lipped smile. "M-my, thanks." Tetebino Hihibino smiles at Hikari Inamoto. Hikari Inamoto starts as she realizes that Tetebino is seated right behind the planter. "OH. I...H-hi. I didn't even see you down there." Denz De'bayle smiles at Jancis. "They do. I must say you are no less beautiful, though." He looks back to the flustered roegadyn, holding up a silly mittened hand. "'Tis quite alright, my lady." Cinnabar Prentice: beam Lawrence Wallace: "Ah, well thank you. I fear the chest was a bit too small for me. It took no small amount of effort to close the clasps." he pat his chest with his free hand before looking between the pair. "Ah, well I had this..." he glanced to his only remaining treat. The cupcake. And offered it out to them. "I might drink a bit later, though. I'm not a particular fan of wine, though." Cinnabar Prentice: (Bah) Aoki Miyamatsu gave Astrelle a nudge and muttered a quick "Excuse me, gonna' go say hi," before offering Lawrence a polite nod as she excused herself. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. Tetebino Hihibino: "Oh, sorry I startled you, then. I thought you were looking at my way, but it must have been the flowers. They're pretty, though." Astrelle De'bayle held a hand up to decline the offer, looking to Aoki with a small nod. She smiled. "Have fun!" Killian Waltz makes a pleased exclamation, muffled from the floor below. "Ah!" Jancis Milburga rubs her cheek a moment, blurring the sight of a blush on her face, before greeting Cinnabar, "Good eve, lady! Welcome!" Astrelle De'bayle: "Nor am I a fan of sweets, in truth. Beyond banana bread and the occasional cake, I suppose." You bow courteously to Cinnabar Prentice. Lawrence Wallace let his shoulders dip just a touch. Relief? The morsel was his! "Ah, banana bread is perhaps my favorite of pastries. Nana made it for me often when I was growing up." Aoki Miyamatsu extended a hand to tap Hikari's shoulder while wearing the usual wide smile on her lips. "Hi!" Then looked over at the sitting Lalafell and offered him a polite nod in greeting. Lawrence Wallace: "As far as alcohol goes, I prefer a simple mug of ale or mead to something expensive such as wine or champagne." Jancis Milburga: "I am Jancis. Jancis Milburga. Can I get you anything to drink? Now that Denz is here, dinner should be out shortly." Cinnabar Prentice blinks to the festively garbed woman then- effecting a polite little bow in return! "Ah... Good eve." Hikari Inamoto: "Th...they are." Hikari nods, crouching down on one knee to speak. "They make the whole room smell nice, too. Uh..." She clears her throat, glancing around. "Is...is that why you're on the ground? You don't have to be, you kn--" She paused suddenly as she felt the tap on her shoulder. Ah--"

Denz De'bayle walks into the house further, taking his place beside Jancis and planting a kiss on top of her head. Hikari Inamoto: "Oh, you're...we made the cake together. You taught me how to get the yolks out from eggs." Hikari Inamoto: "H--Hi!" Denz De'bayle: Dinner, yes? Shall I move the food to the table? Tetebino Hihibino shakes his head, "I didn't want to take anyone's seat." Astrelle De'bayle hummed in acknowledgement. "I find there is little left in wanting when I partake in a glass of rolanberry juice and rum, but I did not drink it as oft as I did in the past." Her lips thinned. "Interesting memories." She paused then motioned vaguely in a circle around Lawrence. "No company?" Jancis Milburga blinks, smiling warmly up at Denz. "That would be wonderful." Aoki Miyamatsu covered her mouth with her free hand as she laughed. "Well, I'm glad you remember! This would've been awkward otherwise. How've you been? I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" Killian Waltz: "Oh, uh...sorry...excuse me..." Killian murmurs, trying to scoot around Alleria and wind his way through the various gathered people. Carina De'bayle: "Is that Miss Cinnabar I hear?" Carina calls out, "hello Cinnabar!" Hikari Inamoto: "Uhm, of--of course n--KILLIAN!" Killian Waltz accidentally taps Tetebino with his cane. "Ahh--" Lawrence Wallace blinked once, a look of worry passing over him. "Were we supposed to? I'm afraid I don't have many contacts outside of work. Let alone a plus one for a party as -"

Tetebino Hihibino: "Hi Killian." He doesn't sound at all annoyed or startled by that. Killian Waltz shies away from the sudden yelling. "Ahh..." Denz De'bayle nods duitfully to Jancis, swivelling around her to begin moving the various prepared foods they had onto the dining table.

Lawrence Wallace: "A party as nice as this one is." Cinnabar Prentice 's eyes had come to the blind man making his way around- searching for her outdoor voice to hail him before she's hailed herself! A startled flinch and she's peering about, seeking the voice. Hikari Inamoto lets out a sigh of relief. "S...Sorry. I was worried you were going to step on him." Denz De'bayle looks to Carina as he is setting the table. "How have you and Aegisan fared since Ishgard, sisteR?"

Killian Waltz nearly knocks the hat rack over into Alleria in the process of stepping back. "Nnh--" Cinnabar Prentice: "Ah- L-Lady, De'bayle... Good evening." Aoki Miyamatsu wrinkled her nose a little and tipped her head as she turned her attention to Killian, "Is he okay?" Hikari Inamoto's eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Killian Waltz. Astrelle De'bayle looks to the outburst with some concern, though it quickly fades as she realizes what's happened. Her gaze returns to Lawrence. "Ah. There is no shame in coming alone, of course—I find it makes it easier to slip away should things become dull." Carina De'bayle: "Cinnabar! Hello," Carina smile, waving Aegisan's hand toward her as the baby blue spit bubbles out of his mouth. Turning toward Denz she smiled some. "About as well as we can be, considering the atmosphere, he has been keeping me in high-spirits though," she nods, "and how have you been faring?" Killian Waltz: "I-I-I was just looking for...for Adelise..." Hikari Inamoto 's cheeks burn with embarrassment. "I should--I should go. Uhm. I...Sorry. Excuse me." Lawrence Wallace: "I've no real sense of what a dull party would amount to. We've friends, good food and drinks, generous hosts. A simple conversation would be more than enough to keep me here."

Tetebino Hihibino: "You're fine, Killian. She's uh....forward and to my left, by the fireplace." Adelise De'bayle: "I am right here Killian," Adelise says just loud enough for the group to hear.

Cinnabar Prentice couldn't help but shrug her dour disposition, if for a moment, at the sight of the babe's antics; smiling with a soft exhaled 'heh.' Ere her composure is returned.

Aoki Miyamatsu watched the woman flee the scene. "Oh, well, uhh... Was uh... right." She shifted a little awkwardly in her spot before offering both Killian and Tetebino a bow of her head as she excused herself. Killian Waltz: "I...I'm really sorry, Mister Tetebino. I didn't mean to hit you. Um..." Killian's face is red with embarrassment. "I'll just...um, excuse me..." He tries to carefully scoot his way around Tete and Aoki, hopefully managing to avoid running into either. Tetebino Hihibino: "You're okay, you know where I am now." Tetebino Hihibino smiles at Killian Waltz. Astrelle De'bayle tilts her brows upward. "You've never drank with pirates, I presume." Finally her hat was removed, tucked into a sash on her blouse. "Regardless, it is good to see you again. I should see to mine compan- oh." Killian Waltz practically latches onto Adelise when he gets to her. Hikari Inamoto leans against the banister on the landing, taking slow breaths to try to compose herself. Denz De'bayle looks between Carina and Cinnabar with some interest. "I am surviving, my lady. Once this hurdle is overcome, 'tis onto the next. I pray that those hurdles will be as rewarding as this one, though." Lawrence Wallace: "I've never had much time to spend in merriment at all. Work has always come first for me." Denz De'bayle: You two know each other? Adelise De'bayle turns her head toward the man as he takes a hold of her arm. "Hello."

Tetebino Hihibino scooches back and leans through the railing spots, looking towards Hikari, giving her a thumbsup and quietly calling, "You okay, miss?" Carina De'bayle: "We shall certainly see, won't we?" She asks out, in almost a skeptical tone, "quite so! I personally inducted her into the House about a sun or so ago. Lovely woman." Aoki Miyamatsu wore a confused and somewhat embarassed expression as she scratched her head. "That was..." She muttered quietly for herself, then brought her glass to her lips and downed it all in one go. Killian Waltz scoots closer to hug Adelise. "Why are you here instead of talking to your family?" Astrelle De'bayle 's brows raised in surprise. "Ah..." she blinks dumbly. "Is aught well?" Adelise De'bayle: "I am sure he will make face eventually," she murmurs, "it is best I keep to myself. I wish to avoid more trouble." Hikari Inamoto sniffs softly. "I-I'm alright. I just. Uhm. I didn't mean to...to be that loud..." Killian Waltz: "Who?" Cinnabar Prentice inches this way and that- making room and allowing anyone to pass with comfort. To the question, she wears her smile once more at Denz with a nod; hands remaining together before her lap. "A-aye... Just so." Adelise De'bayle leans into the man, whispering into his ear.

Denz De'bayle turns his interested gaze on Carina, looking for her to elaborate more. Tetebino Hihibino nods towards her, "You'll be fine." He smiles before pulling himself forward, humming softly again. Aoki Miyamatsu 's grimace took a moment to fade. The woman wasn't much for drinking, even wine. "Everything's fine! Just a little.. awkward. And perhaps not a great first impression." She waved a hand dismissively in front of her. Alleria Surlaint: anddd gotta brb again) Killian Waltz 's expression falters. Carina De'bayle blinks toward Denz, tilting her head akin to a dog, as Aegisan continued to coo out. "That is about it? She was brought in mostly by Adelise as far as I know, or at least one of her friends. I am unsure." Astrelle De'bayle mirrored the wave with her own. "A staple of this House, I'm sure you'll find." Her tone carried a slight tease to it but it was hardly discernable from her usual stoic alto voice. She shot Lawrence a slight smile. "Regardless—a pleasure, Lawrence. I should seek out my family." Hikari Inamoto nods solemnly in silent response. Taking another slow breath, she swallows, then creeps back up the stairs again. Lucius Guiscareaux entered the house, allowing Gaelle to step forward first. He adjusted his color and offered a smile, and a tired wave. "Hello everyone." Denz De'bayle nods his head. "I see. Well, welcome to the fold. I'm sure you'll get a good glimpse into how things operate within the House. Lawrence Wallace had been busying himself with the cupcake. "Ah-" he gave a short nod. "Of course, a pleasure as always. Please, don't dwell on my account." Jancis Milburga beams at Lucius and Gaelle, "Welcome! Good eve! You are just in time!" You bow courteously to Gaelle Favagenieur. Adelise De'bayle can only huff out a breath toward this, turning toward the fire once more with a furrow of her brow. Denz De'bayle: Lord Lucius, Lady Favegenieur. Welcome. Denz De'bayle welcomes Gaelle Favagenieur. Hikari Inamoto: "Ah...Gaelle. Lucius. Wow, uhm...There are a lot of...lot of people here now..."

Killian Waltz steps back some to take Adelise's hand, tugging her gently back from the fireplace. Astrelle De'bayle tips her head politely and looks over to the fire. She considers for a long moment before turning on her heel to spy the newcomers before moving behind Jancis and Denz to greet Carina with a wordless nod. Carina De'bayle: "Astrelle, sister. How are you faring today? I notice you brought a date," she grinned cheekily.

Lawrence Wallace: "Ah...would you like one? There's plenty." he held up his half-finished cupcake with a slight grin. Lucius Guiscareaux blinked towards Denz for a moment. "An Apron, Denz? It fits you!" He grinned. Offering a nod to him and Jancis. "Please, I am no lord. Just Lucius is fine." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Miss Hikari." Hikari Inamoto performs an eastern greeting towards Lucius Guiscareaux.

Gaelle Favagenieur would dip her head politely to the evenings hosts. "Good evening. Thank you for having us," she'd chirp, smile stretched across her lips, body language  hinting at slight embarassment. Cinnabar Prentice responds with only a soft, polite nod ere Denz is strolling back to his greater gaggle of guests... Her perception sdeeming a bit off to not realize just who the man was, until that moment. Damned bangs. "A-ah..." With a drop of the head she regains herself with a deep, practiced breath; eyes turning then to Astrelle. Astrelle De'bayle: "So everyone has said so far," the Elezen replies easily. Her eyes scan for Aegisan and a soft smile curls at her lips. "And I see you've brought yours too." Denz De'bayle: 'Tis my best dress, Lucius. I wear naught better. Denz De'bayle motions to himself. Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at Lucius Guiscareaux. Jancis Milburga: "Right! Lucius! Do make yourself comfortable. Denz just put dinner out." Aoki Miyamatsu: "I--" She paused, and watched Astrelle leave, then turned back to Lawrene. "Might as well, I guess!" Lucius Guiscareaux: "I wore a bib for today's proceedings, myself." Killian Waltz 's hand tightens around Adelise's, but he doesn't stop his gentle tugging. Lawrence Wallace dipped his head in a nod. "Come, they're over here." Lawrence Wallace: "Ah- pardon." Carina De'bayle: "Oh quite so! I am so lucky aren't I?" she smiles down happily toward the baby. "I'd wager he is the most handsome man in the room, aren't you my sweet boy," she presses a kiss to the baby's head, the baby turned toward the Astrelle with wide bright blue eyes. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Hikari Inamoto. Gaelle Favagenieur: "Miss Hikari. Good evening." Denz De'bayle chuckles to the man. "Pray, get comfortable, we are all gathering around the table for dining." Lawrence Wallace: "They're all quite lovely. I suppose it's a matter of what you prefer." Hikari Inamoto: "You both, uhm..." A nervous smile pulls at the corners of her lips. "You both look very nice. Everyone...everyone really dressed up nicely for this...Uhm..." Adelise De'bayle turns her head slightly, staring toward the door before tearing back toward the fire. "Mm." Jancis Milburga counts and counts some more. "I might have to get some more chairs." Astrelle De'bayle offers the infant a slight wiggle of her fingers in a wave. "Hello, Aegisan." A softness touched her expression that was rare, mostly unseen by many of Hydaelyn. "He is most handsome, indeed. Faring well since?" Seisyll Haerviu steps into the room - letting out a quiet "oh" in surprise at seeing how many people were in the room. Aoki Miyamatsu tipped her head as she looked over all the different sweets. She cupped her chin and seemed to give it some serious thought, if her expression was anything to go by. "Hmm... What would you suggest?" Killian Waltz tugs a bit more firmly at Adelise's hand. Jancis Milburga: "Worry not I can gather more chairs!" Gaelle Favagenieur: "You look quite lovely yourself, Hikari." Jancis Milburga: "Family dinner... Matron's Bounty...." Lucius Guiscareaux: "It is a nice print.." Denz De'bayle blinked at the newest entry, silently sliding around to the door and placing a hand on the man's shoulder. "Guilemont." Lawrence Wallace swept a wrist towards the table. "I am somewhat neutral in my tastes. The crackers and meat and cheese is nice. All of the baked goods were nicely prepared. Perhaps a tart if you don't enjoy sweets?" Jancis Milburga: "Pardon. Sorry. There you can sit, Lady!" Seisyll Haerviu: "Shh. There are people we don't know here. Seisyll."

Hikari Inamoto 's eyebrows lift in surprise at seeing the silver haired Elezen make his way inside. "Ah--you came." As Gaelle speaks her name, she blinks, her head snapping back to the pair. "O-Oh. Uhm. Uh. Th...thank you. It...used to be my mother's. Uh. Mostly it's just...just sat in storage. But, uhm...since this is a special dinner, I thought...you know..." Carina De'bayle: "I would say so. It is nice to get out again. Some suns it can feel hard to get out of bed... for more reasons than one. But I am glad I could come out today. Aegisan is so curious to see the world. I am excited to experience it with him." Gaelle Favagenieur: "Well, no matter. It suits you quite well." Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Hikari Inamoto. Denz De'bayle smacks the back of his head with his mitten hand, lacking any strength behind it. Moreso tossing his hair. "I -invited- these people, you dolt. We know them all." Jancis Milburga: "Are those enough?" You seem lost in thought. Denz De'bayle: I'm going to forget halfway through the night, anyhow. Denz De'bayle fails to understand Seisyll Haerviu. Aoki Miyamatsu: "I do enjoy sweets! In fact, I think something sweet would do..." Choices were difficult, it seemed. So, she did what seemed most logical: Pointed her attention at the sweets, and reached out to grab the first random thing she could get her hands on. Adelise De'bayle exhales out a breath toward this, turning toward the others as she walked away from Killian and toward Carina and Astrelle. "Good evening, cousin. Countess," she dipped her head toward them. Jancis Milburga counts. "Nine.... ten... " Seisyll Haerviu: "I did uh... I did indeed. Come here, that is." He looks to Denz then, pausing for a moment. "Well, I uh... I suppose. But - there are at least a few I uh... I don't recognize." Jancis Milburga: "Fourteen..." Killian Waltz stumbles somewhat more awkwardly after Adelise, one hand outstretched before him. Adelise De'bayle: "And Cinnabar as well." You panic! Astrelle De'bayle nods fervently at the Countess. "He is lucky to experience it with you. His family will welcome him in due time." Astrelle turns her head to Adelise, nodding politely. "Evening." Hikari Inamoto smiles sheepishly in response, smoothing out the fabric. "You, uh...You think so? I...don't usually wear a lot of pink..." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Quite a large crowd tonight.." Lawrence Wallace: "Something to be said for rolling the dice. Especially when all the outcomes are good hm?" Denz De'bayle: We can all personally vouch for one another. Adelise De'bayle: "Do not mind me. I intend to not interrupt any conversation," she gestures up a hand, stepping around to stand by Carina. Jancis Milburga looks upa t Alleria, laughing. "It is a good problem to have." Cinnabar Prentice 's attentions turn from Carina and Aegisan to Adelise in her approach; dipping toward her with a polite bow. "Ah- good eve, Lady A-... Adelise." Hikari Inamoto hovers awkwardly near the two brothers. Carina De'bayle keeps her gaze down onto her baby a moment, turning toward Adelise as the young woman stood beside her, "good evening Adelise I hope you are enjoying yourself," she raises a hand to rub at the girls arm.

Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Alleria, her bright white dress having caught her eye. "Good evening, Knight Captain. No Lyriah this evening?" Lucius Guiscareaux: "I really need to get a house around here.."

Denz De'bayle points a heart-filled mitten at Hikari, then to the white-haired man. "You're in charge of him. Now take a seat at the table, you two."

Killian Waltz stands in the middle of nowhere, shuffling awkwardly. Denz De'bayle points at Hikari Inamoto. Aoki Miyamatsu ended up with a colourful cupcake, and she seemed rather pleased with it. "My thoughts exactly," she chuckled. Cinnabar Prentice then blinks to her left; her lips tugging upward just a bit more- effecting another bow, even if it's naught to whom it's addressed. "And- h-hello, Ian." Astrelle De'bayle offers a faint smile to Carina and Adelise, turning on her heel to go greet the newest Elezen in the room. Her fingers brush gingerly against Aoki's shoulder as she passes, acknowledging her presence as she moved to stand beside Denz. Killian Waltz: "Hello, Miss Prentice," Killian murmurs in reply. Alleria Surlaint: "Everyone seems rather lively tonight Jancis." she quickly looked to Gaelle. "Ahh Gaelle! Please just call me Alleria." she offered a quick bow to the woman. "I'm afraid not she's rather busy tonight." Alleria Surlaint bows courteously to Gaelle Favagenieur. Jancis Milburga: "There!" Jancis Milburga pants after moving around every spare chair and bench she could find. Gaelle Favagenieur: "Alleria it is, then. That's no matter, there are plenty of faces to converse with." Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Alleria Surlaint. Hikari Inamoto opens her mouth to speak, an uncertainly rising "U--uhhh...?" escaping her throat. "...Well. Uhm. I was going--going to say something to, uh. That...degree. Uhm..." She scratches at the exposed burn scar on her right forearm, then peers up to Guillemont. "How are you feeling today?" Lawrence Wallace: "So you are Astrelle's friend yes? Mind if I ask what it is you do for a living? Most everyone else here I can guess." Denz De'bayle turns around to see Jancis moving furniture. "Jancis, do you need help?!" Jancis Milburga: "I. I think I found enough." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Alleria. How are you?" Killian Waltz stumbles aside as Denz rushes past. "Ah--"

Adelise De'bayle: "Mm. Of course, my Lady," she replies flatly. Eyes falling onto Aegisan, a smile spread over her gently. "Good evening, my Lord," she reaches a hand to pat softly at the baby's knit hat.

Seisyll Haerviu: "Hello, Astrelle. Have you uh... Have you gone on that date? The uh... With uh... That particularly wealthy gentleman?" He looks to Hikari. "I uh... I am feeling well. A bit anxious, in truth. I uh... I've never been good in crowds, and uh... I am afraid the air has yet to be cleared between me and Adelise." Cinnabar Prentice 's head bobs with a nod, wearing the smile a time longer yet... Eyes dipping, then meandering. Ere she returns to her own little bubble with eyes grazing on the occupants. Jancis Milburga looks up at Denz, "Mayhaps you can tell the first story while I catch my breath." Alleria Surlaint: "Indeed there are! Such as you two. Lucius I'm quite alright these eve and yourself?" Alleria Surlaint bows courteously to Lucius Guiscareaux. Aoki Miyamatsu: "I am! She's the one who invited me here." She took a smile bite out of the cupcake, and made sure to chew and swallow before she continued. Manners and all. "I work at an eastern themed bar. Not nearly as exciting as most here, I'd imagine, but..." She chuckled. Denz De'bayle nods to Jancis, turning back to Killian and placing a hand on his shoulder. "My apologies, Killian. Pray, take a seat." Hikari Inamoto: "...Wealthy gentleman?" Lucius Guiscareaux: "Quite hungry, I might say, but beyond that, I am doing well. New coat, and a nice event for it."

Astrelle De'bayle slowly shakes her head. "Not yet. Soon, I imagine." She brushes strand of hair from her forehead, nodding a polite greeting to both Seisyll and Hikari. "Mm. Four million point five gil." Hikari Inamoto glances to Aoki. Killian Waltz: "Um, I want to...sit by Adelise..." Killian clicks his tongue. "But I don't want to interrupt everyone." Denz De'bayle: Shall I carry you to her side? Killian Waltz: "Wh-what?!" Hikari Inamoto looks at Astrelle De'bayle in shock! Jancis Milburga suggests, "They can take the loveseat, Denz." Lawrence Wallace: "At a bar hm? I've not learned much of anything in regards to Doma, so i'm left curious as to whether they are ran the same way Eorzean bars are." Hikari Inamoto: "F...Four point...what?!" Denz De'bayle: Whatever you're comfortable with. Astrelle De'bayle: "Point five million." Killian Waltz: "Uhh--I just...I want to sit by Adelise. And the Countess." Denz De'bayle: Sir Wallace! Lady Aoki! Pray move aside for Killian! Denz De'bayle disagrees vehemently with Lawrence Wallace. Killian Waltz: "I--" Hikari Inamoto: "That's...wow, uhm...that's a lot." Killian Waltz 's face turns nearly as red as Denz's shirt. Lawrence Wallace: "Ah. Very well, then. Pardon me." Killian Waltz: "I...I'm sorry..." Killian says in a small voice. Aoki Miyamatsu: "It's not too different! The food and drinks are, but... otherwise, it's basically the same. I mean, it's a bar-- Oh, I'm sorry!" She quickly moved out of the way and offered both an apologetic smile. Astrelle De'bayle rolls a shoulder casually. She reaches out to grasp Seisyll's arm gingerly, giving it a soft squeeze. "We must needs talk soon, brother." Carina De'bayle: "Ah here Killian, allow me to scoot in." Jancis Milburga: "Please, everyone come have a seat. It is family style dinner platters to pass and share." Killian Waltz: "No, that--that's alright. I can...sit on this side of you. Is there somewhere I can put my cane?" Alleria Surlaint: "And a rather nice coat it is indeed. I'm sure food will be available shortly" Adelise De'bayle: "Over this way Killian." Alleria Surlaint nods to Lucius Guiscareaux. Seisyll Haerviu: "It is indeed a lot - but uh... Not quite the value of my sister, I think. Not uh... Not many could afford that, I think." He looks back to Astrelle. "Talk? Yes, we uh... We do need to." Lawrence Wallace: "Fair enough. A bar is a bar, after all. I believe there are plans in the works for me and a few friends to visit Doma before long. Perhaps I could get a list of places to visit before I leave?" Denz De'bayle begins parading around the house, clapping his mittens together. "Gather, my friends! Sir Tetebino, you are not exempt from this!!" Astrelle De'bayle offers him a firm nod, releasing her hold on his arm. "Good." With that, she smiled to both and turned to rejoin the others. Hikari Inamoto: "Uhm..." Hikari clears her throat quietly, then reaches for Guillemont's hand to give it a reassuring squeeze. "I'll be here, okay? If, uhm. If something happens and you get upset, I'll do my best to help things." Tetebino Hihibino blinks back into reality, looking over at Denz, "Huh? Oh, sorry!" He stands up, taking another sip of his water before making his way over. Gaelle Favagenieur: "Alleria, Lucius, please pardon me but a moment." Aoki Miyamatsu chuckled, "Well, there isn't much of the city left. Yanxia is a beautiful place though, very peaceful. Especially now since the war is over." Denz De'bayle blinks at Cinnabar. "Is aught amiss?"

Adelise De'bayle reaches a hand to take a hold of Killian's arm, sitting there silently, "do you want to say hello to Aegisan?" Cinnabar Prentice looks to the most familiar of immediate company, ere scuffling aside just enough to qualify as 'gathering.' The question causes her to blink wide. "Ah, I-I..." Lawrence Wallace: "I would imagine so. Any who have visited tell stories of the views." Hikari Inamoto: ((oops.)) Killian Waltz: "M-me?" Seisyll Haerviu squeezes her hand in turn. "I uh... I am not particularly afraid of uh... Of that happening. So long as uh... As the boy refrains from having any uh... Any outbursts, then uh... Then I won't need to." Lucius Guiscareaux: (( KATANA DEPLOYED GET DOWN! )) Alleria Surlaint: "Perhaps we should find seating for the meal?" Adelise De'bayle: "Yes you." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Perhaps, aye." Jancis Milburga: "Denz and I have stories prepared, however if anyone has one to share during dinner, that will be wonderful. Or a song. Poem. It is the spirit of the festival." Tetebino Hihibino sets his glass of water on the table, leaning forward slighty to reach the table, looking over the table. Gaelle Favagenieur approaches Carina, removing her hat and offering a humble, polite bow. "Lady De'Bayle, I beg your pardon for the interruption. We have not yet been introduced. My name is Gaelle Favagenieur; I am most pleased to finally meet you." Gaelle Favagenieur bows courteously to Carina De'bayle. Cinnabar Prentice: "N-no- no, just... M-many, unfamiliar... faces. Is, all... P-pray, pardon my, forwardness, but... Y-you are, Ser Denz?" Denz De'bayle nods without Cinnabar's clear answer. "Good. If are in need of the facilities, they're in the sec- Oh." Denz De'bayle tries to comfort Cinnabar Prentice. Denz De'bayle: Ahem, yes, forgive me. 'Tis busy at the moment. Denz De'bayle at your service. Lucius Guiscareaux: 'Please, Lady Alleria. After you." Carina De'bayle: "Miss Gaelle Favagenieur, a pleasure to meet you finally! I heard you are acquainted with Ser Lucius?" Alleria Surlaint: "No no My Lord after you." Alleria Surlaint bows courteously to Lucius Guiscareaux. Killian Waltz: "It...it's alright. He's all the way on your other side. It would be...awkward." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Mhm! Other than that, hmm... Well, I'd avoid the Ruby Sea, unless you want to deal with pirates. Though if you don't mind that, there's plenty to see there too. Especially if you can get your hands on some diving gear." Lucius Guiscareaux: "No, My Lady, I insist. Tis not polite for someone of my title to go before you." Cinnabar Prentice: "Ah... M-my, apologies... The, photograph, scarce... carries semblance. A, pleasure." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Don't upset the natives though!" You smile at Denz De'bayle. Alleria Surlaint: "But you must find the best seat first." She would move behind the man and begin pushing him towards the numerous seats. Adelise De'bayle: "No it would not be," she remarks curtly, turning toward Carina, "my Lady, may I see our smaller Lord for a moments time?" Lawrence Wallace: "Well, I may have to just take a trip to the Sea because of the pirates. I might be able to help keep the peace a bit given time to work. Ah...and who are the natives, exactly? In the Sea?" Gaelle Favagenieur nods. "Yes, Countess. He was well acquainted with my work prior to our meeting, it seems. I suppose it's fair to say we've become fast friends." Lucius Guiscareaux blinked, attempting to push back, perhaps jokingly, or perhaps defensively. "My Lady Alleria, please."

Hikari Inamoto: "...Killian. Uh. Gets...upset easily. So he...I can't guarantee he won't. Uhm..." She bites her lower lip. "...I know it's hard. But. If...uhm. If anyone says something, just...just try to...uhm. Let it go. For now. Okay? Everything is still...you know. Just happened. So...Uhm. We should just try to...enjoy the dinner." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Very well...I shall sit.."

Carina De'bayle: "I see, and you are an engineer? It would be in our best interest to get more of those, I am sure Astrelle could use some more minds like your own," she beams, turning toward Adelise, "hmm? Of course dear," unwrapping Aegisan slightly as the baby was revealed to be wearing a cute little love-oriented outfit with booties, she offered the baby over to Adelise.

Jancis Milburga looks over her storybook, preparing. Denz De'bayle comes up to Jancis, a mitt on her leg. "This group is not known for their speed. 'Tis like a slow moving ram approaching a gate, 'ere it penetrates the defenses and we can START EATING!" He rises his voice slightly to encourage people to their seats. Killian Waltz: "Ahh, I...alright..." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Gaelle, where would you like to sit?" Astrelle De'bayle moves to the familiar but nameless face, wine stem between her fingers. She opens her mouth to speak but Denz calls out first, garnering her attention. "Mm." She'd offer the Roegadyn a nod and return to the table to find a seat. Jancis Milburga jumps a bit under Denz's steadying mitt as his voice raises in a commanding manner. Seisyll Haerviu: "I will. But I uh... The boy needs to uh... To show some self control, if uh... If I am to be patient with him." He shrugs. "They've shown no tollerance for me, so uh... Why should I?" Adelise De'bayle takes Aegisan into her hands carefully, being cautious of the flailing baby's legs. Turning toward Killian, Adelise lowered the infant into Killian's arms. Lawrence Wallace casts a glance to Denz and chuckles, a hand gesturing for Aoki to take a seat. "If you wish to remain by Astrelle's side I won't blame you that. We can continue our discussion later?" Gaelle Favagenieur: "Yes, Countess. I am an engineer by trade, one formerly employeed within Skysteele Manufactory." Aoki Miyamatsu: "The Kojin, and a Raen village. The Kojin are friendly though, most of them at least." Tetebino Hihibino jumps in alert, quickly grabbing nearby utensils, before looking up and down the table and setting them down. Killian Waltz takes the squirming child in his arms, his expression easing almost instantly as he cradles Aegisan. A faint smile tugs at his features. "Hello, my little lord," he murmurs softly. Carina De'bayle: "Is that so? I am sure you must be lacking in business as it currently stands. Are you looking for new employment?" Gaelle Favagenieur blinks in Lucius direction, her narrowed eyed suggesting slight displeasure with the interruption of her conversation . "That bench there is just fine," she'd remark, getsuring towards the bench at his left. Adelise De'bayle smiles gently toward Killian as he held the wiggling baby, the little boy seemingly calm in the Hyur's arms. Jancis Milburga: "Come and sit! It will be cozy." Carina De'bayle: "Please, feel free to sit beside me if you wish." Hikari Inamoto: "...B...because he doesn't..." Hikari furrows her brow, scratching at her scalp. "...J...just for tonight. If he says anything. Please try to keep your...your anger restrained. When was the last time everyone was together like this? It can--we can talk about it later, alright? But, uh... Here. Look. Let's--go sit while there are still--" She pauses as the door creaks open. Lucius Guiscareaux nodded, realizing what he had done. He resigned himself to being quiet and slowly sitting down.

Killian Waltz wiggles a finger against little Aegisan's face, tickling a chubby cheek. Astrelle De'bayle: "...I am still getting used to this sight of you, brother. Forgive me if I'm staring." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Oh, seems she's done going around. Think I will. We could always continue it later, yes. Was nice talking to you." She offered a friendly smile. "And good luck on your trip, if you end up going, yes?" Gaelle Favagenieur: "Indeed, yes. Pray, if you have a moment following the dinner, I'd like to discuss something with you." Lawrence Wallace: "Thank you. Take care, as well." Lawrence Wallace: "Pardon, excuse me." Seisyll Haerviu lets out a quiet sigh. "Alright. I uh... I will find a spot to sit - hopefully." Akito Saejima peers into the room, then enters through the door, though he suddenly stops upon crossing past the threshold to see Hikari and Seisyll. You smile at Seisyll Haerviu. Seisyll Haerviu: "Hello, Jancis." Jancis Milburga reaches out for Guillemont's hand with both of hers, squeezing it. "Hello." Lucius Guiscareaux took his real seat. He pouted for a moment. Hikari Inamoto: "Ah--Akito's here now, too! Akito, this is..." She bustles over to the man to take his hand, turning to introduce him to the silver haired Elezen. But he had already left to find a seat. Hikari Inamoto: "...A...oh." Denz De'bayle was staring at Astrelle staring at him, blinking. "What?" Killian Waltz bounces Aegisan a little in his arms. "Are you a happy little lord?" he asks gently, his voice nearly lost in the crowd. "Hmm?" Jancis Milburga: "Here. Come sit. You have wonderful timing." Seisyll Haerviu gives her hands a gentle squeeze in turn. "It uh... It is good to see you again, my friend." Akito Saejima cleared his throat, looking Hikari up and down. "...You--... I do not think I dressed fancifully enough. This is the most formal wear I have, besides my ceremonial cyclas." Astrelle De'bayle shakes her head with a snicker. Her hand found Aoki's shoulder gently as she turned to look at the remaining seats. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles, happily accepting the offering of a seat. "It would be my pleasure, thank you." Jancis Milburga smiles softly, "You as well." Astrelle De'bayle: "Well. It seems our choices are slim." Tetebino Hihibino glances down the table, towards the remaining guests who haven't been seated, and hums for a moment, grabbing his water and making his way to the toadstool he could just barely make out. Cinnabar Prentice took her time to find a seat- waitng 'til near everyone else had claimed theirs to pick one of her own. Eyes flicking to and fro along the others- ere turning to Jancis and Seisyll. Appearing all too ready to spring up and move about if so much as hinted. Aoki Miyamatsu: "Are we going to take a seat, then?" Tetebino Hihibino: ((Uuunless I totally missed something...)) Hikari Inamoto: "It. Uhm. It's one of Kaa-san's old...uhm. You know. Y...you look nice. Uhm..." Hikari Inamoto: "C...come on. Everyone was just sitting down to eat." Carina De'bayle: "So then, now that we are all situated," she smiles, resting her hand over her lap. Jancis Milburga: "There is a free seat here. Jancis Milburga: "Um... The loveseat is open." You smile at Hikari Inamoto. Seisyll Haerviu casts a glance to the Roegadyn on his left. "Uh... Hello." Astrelle De'bayle slowly nods, though her eyes continue to scan the offered seating. "I feel we may be short a few seats, regardless. Would you be opposed to... the loveseat, or eating here to allow the others their seats?" Hikari Inamoto stares at the literal loveseat.

Cinnabar Prentice looks to Lucius a time- seeming to wait the opportunity to catch him with a little greeting smile- though the fellow so close to her right was soon the absolute focus of her attentions. "Ah... U-uhm." Jancis Milburga: "Astrelle! Mayhaps we can scoot someone to have two seats together." Hikari Inamoto: "Where do you want to...Uh..." Astrelle De'bayle: "If that shan't pose a problem. I don't wish to be a burden." Aoki Miyamatsu shifted her attention towards the 'love seat' and made a grimace, then shifted a little awkwardly in her spot. "I'm... not opposed to anything. You lead the way, yes?" Cinnabar Prentice: "H-hello," she replies, dipping her head in a nod with that polite smile. Tetebino Hihibino: "I can squeeze in somewhere, I'm sure, if someone wants this seat."

Adelise De'bayle looks down toward Aegisan, wiggling a finger toward him. Looking up toward Killian with a gentle bob of his large head, Aegisan turned his head to attempt to put the mans fingers into his mouth.

Akito Saejima scratched at his temple, looking back to Hikari. "I will sit wherever there is space." Astrelle De'bayle clicks her tongue. "Ah-- swive it." She moves boldly forward, sidling by others to take a spot on the love seat. The literal one. It's pink. Aoki Miyamatsu wasn't nearly as bold, but she followed anyways. Better than to be left alone standing. Seisyll Haerviu nods as well. "Are you uh... New? I've been... Away, so uh... I'm afraid I do not recognize many faces here." Hikari Inamoto: "Do you want to...uhm. You can sit next to Guillemont, and I can stand...?" You clap. Denz De'bayle: Cinnabar, move down next to Lucius here, Guillemont scoot over for Akito and Hikari. Denz De'bayle points at Cinnabar Prentice.

Akito Saejima shrugs his shoulders, then moves to take a seat on the nearby bench. "Ah-- You shouldn't stand." Hikari Inamoto: "Ah--" Hikari Inamoto: "Oh--or--if they're moving. Uhm. I can sit between you two." Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Astrelle De'bayle. You smile at Cinnabar Prentice. Cinnabar Prentice opens her mouth to speak- eyelids fluttering with a swift glance to Denz. "A-aye!" She promptly lifts her rump to scoot on down- coat collected between her knees to make extra room yet. Akito Saejima: It hardly matters. Lawrence Wallace: "Hello again Astrelle and Aoki." Lucius Guiscareaux: ".." Jancis Milburga beams at Denz's leadership capabilities. Hikari Inamoto shrugs at Akito Saejima. Aoki Miyamatsu: "Maybe another drink would've been good," she muttered quietely for herself. "At least the seat's comfortable, yeah?" Akito Saejima simply plops down on the bench, scooting to make room. Aoki Miyamatsu: "Hello!" Denz De'bayle sucks in a breath. "Good! We're situated! Now...!" He stands over the head over the table, behind the bench.

Killian Waltz: "Ahh, it would seem we have a hungry little lord, hmm?" Killian murmurs as Aegisan latches onto his finger. "Do you want your mummy to feed you? You're a nice and healthy baby, aren't you?" He leans forward to press a kiss to Aegisan's forehead. "Countess?" he asks, still bouncing Aegisan gently as he turns his attention to the women beside him. Seisyll Haerviu nods to Akito Saejima. Denz De'bayle: 'Ere we begin, Jancis and I want to thank you all for coming. I know many of you do not know one another that well... Astrelle De'bayle: "Lawrence." She nods gingerly, looking to Aoki with a huff through her nose. "Quite comfortable. It should be rather nice to eat upon." Akito Saejima makes a straight face at Seisyll Haerviu. Akito Saejima makes a straight face at Denz De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto makes a straight face at Akito Saejima. Denz De'bayle gestures at Cinnabar, Aoki, and Akito. "But I think you for joining this family for this dinner." Denz De'bayle: As well, I know that these times have been difficult for many. Seisyll Haerviu clears his throat uncomfortably, staring down to the table. Gaelle Favagenieur leans forward, gazing past Lucius at Cinnabar. "Miss Pretice. Good evening." Denz De'bayle 's eyes skirt between the top of Guillemont's head and Adelise. Hikari Inamoto picks at her fingernails. Denz De'bayle: -But-, we are all here, in a season of love and forgiveness, and seeing new faces and greeting old friends. Opening our arms to new adventures and closing the door on our dark chapters. Carina De'bayle: "Yes Killian?" She smiles toward him. Akito Saejima tucks his hands into the opposite sleeves, looking over his shoulder at Denz. His eyes dart from Guillemont to HIkari, then between the others at the table in turn. Killian Waltz: "I think Master Aegisan is hungry...would you like to take him back?" Hikari Inamoto quietly puts a hand on Akito's arm, giving a quick glance between him and Guillemont, then peers back up to Denz. Carina De'bayle: "Oh, of course of course. He is a growing boy," she notes out amusingly, "would you help him, sweetheart?" She says out toward Adelise. Seisyll Haerviu looks towards his nephew, a slight smile tugging at his lips. Denz De'bayle: Right, well! Grab a plate for food, and I shall keep your conversations muted for -just- a few minutes longer while I spin you tale rather fitting for this season. Killian Waltz offers Aegisan carefully over to Adelise. Denz De'bayle pats Guillemont's shoulder. "You should know this one." Seisyll Haerviu: "I should?" Denz De'bayle: You should.

Jancis Milburga ||As Denz speaks, the layout of the dinner is clear. Stacks of plates, platters of hot sides, slices of meats, roasted veggies, the aroma wafting up from each variety of platter. On each, is bread. Rolls or slices to compliment each for either fluffy, chewy, crusty, sweet, or very savory. Seisyll Haerviu hums in thought. What stories did he know? Adelise De'bayle reaches toward Aegisan, taking the baby into her hands. Holding him in front of her, Aegisan looked up toward Adelise with a wided-eye expression, blinking innocently. Squishing her lips together, Adelise hugged him to some, "hello..." she says softly, patting the baby to her for a moment longer before reluctantly returning him back into Carina's embrace. Denz De'bayle clears his throat, moving over to the stage and deciding to clambour onto it, apron catching and causing him to struggle for a few moments. "Hurgh! Ur... There we are..." Jancis Milburga walks around the table, refilling glasses with water or wine, quietly asking each what they prefer and finding ways to squeeze around the very crowded table. Astrelle De'bayle perks a brow at her youngest sibling. A faint smirk touches upon her lips as she peers up at him, biting into her lip to stifle the laugh threatening to bubble up from her throat at his efforts. Idly she takes a plate, offering one to Aoki before taking one for herself to begin scooping food onto. Cinnabar Prentice peers between the blonde fellow and Denz in the moment of conversation- ere twisting as best she can without cramping poor Lucius to keep sight of Denz. Head cocked with inquiry. Lucius Guiscareaux took to his wine before he took to his dinner plate. Denz De'bayle holds out his hands. "'Tis before the times of the Calamity, when the snows had yet to touch Ishgard out of season, and the Dragonsong War continued it's plight upon the city. Lords and Ladies amongst the Pillars speak with one another in hushed tones about the -strange- family who keeps to themselves... Adelise De'bayle turns her body slightly to look toward Denz, her brow quirked as she was made to listen to the mans struggle beforehand. Hikari Inamoto: "...Oh...oh wow. That's a lot of food. It all looks...uhm...wow..." Hikari clears her throat, bending forward for a nearby basket of bread. Gaelle Favagenieur sips from her own glass, shifting in her seat to catch a better glimpse of Denz as he spoke. Carina De'bayle wraps Aegisan back up to rest against her, openin her coat and raising the blanket discreetly before turning slightly toward Denz as the baby was now hid away. Aoki Miyamatsu narrowed her eyes a little, then leaned in to whisper to the woman beside her. "Your brother's a preformer? I would never have guessed." She nodded in thanks as she took the offered plate, and proceeded to fill it up. Astrelle De'bayle snickers at Aoki's question. "Nor would have I," she replies with a smirk. Denz De'bayle -- ... And brands tattoos to their foreheads. A trio of boys from this family were caught in a rare escapade outside the walls of their manor, travelling down the ornate streets of the Last Vigil, when one of them stops. The middle brother stopped, hands halting his brothers as they came upon a group of Ladies." Denz mimics the wide outstretch of his arms for a moment. Aoki Miyamatsu looked back at the woman with a raised eyebrow, then it seemed to click, "Oh," followed by a soft laugh. Denz De'bayle: "Brothers, look upon Halone herself!" He says, pointing to a woman dressed in a gilded blue dress. He spoke loud enough for the woman to hear, and she merely brushed aside the compliment. Adelise De'bayle: "Halone?" Adelise narrows her eyes. Denz De'bayle: But the middle brother did not relent, showering her with all the silver-tongued words he could. When that failed, his brothers dragged him away, for he was meant to join the Temple Knights in their training. Hikari Inamoto 's eyes flit from Denz down to Guillemont. He couldn't have possibly been the middle brother in this story. Denz De'bayle: He could not even gather a name from her before they parted. And this nameless lady wracked his mind and weapons wacked his sides.

Akito Saejima held a hand to the bench to reach out over to grab a couple pieces of bread and put them onto a plate. He craned his head, looking to the boiling pot of soup. "Mm... Is that chanko...? Mm, couldn't be..." Still, he scoops up a few spoonfuls of the pot's contents onto a plate, though is quickly halted when he drops the spoon into the mixture and it disappears entirely. "..." He opts not to say anything. Seisyll Haerviu looks somewhat confused. Tetebino Hihibino glances over the table in thought, some hesitation in his eyes. He takes a little piece of everything as its passed around - bread, veggies, meat, a scoop of each side. He glances towards the other plates as they're filled, wondering what a polite amount would be before simply settling on just one of each. For now. Jancis Milburga pauses more and more often as she checks in on the table, missing the lost spoon, as she listens to Denz. Adelise De'bayle went about getting herself a bowl of soup, huffing out as she began to sip at it from a spoon. Denz De'bayle: He would find her once more the next day, nursing his bruises and attempting to hide his shame. When she saw this, it garnered a smile, and he believed he had a chance to learn her name. Akito Saejima sits bolt-upright as he takes a bite of a slice of bread, eyes darting suspiciously to the layout of spoons. Hikari Inamoto: "..." Hikari stares at the place where the spoon vanished. Carefully, she takes up her butter knife to try to fish it out of the bowl. Unsurprisingly, she doesn't seem to be having much success with it. "......" Denz De'bayle: The next day he brought her jeweled earrings, and her face failed to show a genuine smile. "Thank you, but I must refuse this gift, my lord." And she gave him back the earrings. The next day, he brought her a dress from the finest Ishgardian tailor, and this failed to bring back that smile. "I'm sorry my lord, but I must reject this gift." Cinnabar Prentice 's attention went near undivided to Denz- eyes occasionally taking in each in the collective and the traffic at the dinner table. She didn't seem discouraged for supper, when she had a story to hold her captive. Alleria Surlaint sat softly tapping her fingers atop her dress covered knees as she listened to Denz. She cracked a small smile her eyes glancing down at Hikari's attempt to recover the lost Silverware. Denz De'bayle: On the third day, he brought a chocobo. Instead of a rejection, she just looked dumbfounded. "You... De'bayles -are- as strange as they say, aren't you?" and he groaned, leading the gift chocobo back to its stalls. Tetebino Hihibino scooches his chair forward a touch, picking up a fork and knife and taking rather small bites of his food, his attention primarily on Denz. Jancis Milburga: "..." Astrelle De'bayle was already eating—manners be damned, she was hungry—as a piece of bread was bitten into. Various meats and warm veggies were laid upon her plate neatly, a knife and fork on each side as she finished the slice of bread and took up her utensils, though her eyes never left Denz. Lucius Guiscareaux took the first sip of wine, ever so slowly. Not bad! Jancis Milburga encourages everyone to eat while Denz tells the story, nearly bumping some people as she continues to listen with utmost curiousity. Gaelle Favagenieur would have, under normal circumstances, elected to start with soup. Instead, she'd blink at Hikari's attempt at fishing the utensil from the pot, a small frown splayed across her lips. She'd settle for a small plate of vegetables, carefully spooning them out, offering the same to Lucius. She would not touch her food until the Lady of the house had done so. Hikari Inamoto nearly has the spoon free, slowly scraping it up the side of the pot. But she pauses. "...I want a chocobo," she mumbles, distracted just long enough for the spoon to slide off of her knife and back into the stew. "......" Hikari Inamoto looks stumped.

Aoki Miyamatsu kept her plate infront of her, waiting to dig in. But not yet, the food would have to wait til she had heard the whole story first. Akito Saejima blinked. "I thought you /had/ a..." He trailed off, quieting himself and looking back towards Denz. Seisyll Haerviu casts a glance in Hikari's direction, making a note of that statement. Hikari Inamoto disagrees with Akito Saejima. Akito Saejima gazes upon Hikari Inamoto in deep reflection. Denz De'bayle: On the last day, he brought no gift, did not even stop to speak to her, so late for his training that he sprinted by half-garbed in gear. As he rushed by, he heard the sweetest noise he could, the lady's laughter.... Whether at his expense or otherwise did not concern him. When the training finished, and he made his way home, she was still where she stood before. Killian Waltz clearly doesn't intend to test his ability to serve himself with the spread of various food on the table, so he just sits there staring disconcertingly toward Law and Astrelle as Denz speaks. Hikari Inamoto: "N...no." Hikari lowers her voice. "That's Muffin." She gestures towards the silver haired Elezen. "That's, uh...that's Guillemont's chocobo. I was just taking care of her for him while he was...uhm. Away." Adelise De'bayle: "Would you like something to eat, Killian?" Adelise whispers to him some. Akito Saejima nods. "Mm. I remember, now..." Denz De'bayle: Approaching, he threw up his hands, tired, beaten, and defeated by more than just Knight-Trainees. "I give up! Why will you not accept any of my gifts?" She looked over this downtrodden young man, and then the mark on his forehead. "Any lord can bring gifts, no matter how expensive or... living they may be. What would you offer me that no one else could?" She asked. Killian Waltz: "Ahh, it...it's alright. I'm fine." Tetebino Hihibino tilts his head some in thought at the idea of being surprised by the gift of a pet amongst nobility. Cinnabar Prentice 'cants her head, contemplative of the question in tale. Adelise De'bayle: "Are you sure?" She asks out gently, raising her bowl to press  her spoon up to his lips some, "it tastes delicous." Denz De'bayle: "Honestly, I've no bloody idea." He breathed out, certain he would be scorned from this woman's favor regardless. Instead, she laughed. "That is something that is discovered in time." She took a step back, pressing a hand against a door the young man didn't even know was there. "Would you like to come in?" Denz De'bayle: -Apparently-, he'd been sprinting by her house the entire time. You smile at Denz De'bayle. Cinnabar Prentice smiles weakly at Denz De'bayle. Killian Waltz starts a little at the unexpectedness of Adelise's spoon against his lips before opening his mouth to accept the bite, lifting one hand to steady the spoon himself. Swallowing, he says, "It--it's good, but I'm...it's a lot of trouble...I don't know what's here, or...where anything is." Denz De'bayle dismissively waves a hand, clearing his throat. "He was stunned, to say the least. 'I do not know your name, my lady.' He claimed. She smiled at him. 'Elliana, my lord.' He bowed the best his body would allow. 'Aegisan De'bayle, at your service, my lady.'" Denz halts for a moment, looking down at Carina, and the child in her arms. Adelise De'bayle: "That is fine, I can make you a plate. There is meat and vegetables, and soup. You like soup, yes?" Jancis Milburga stands close to Tetebino, refilling his water. Tetebino Hihibino: "Oh, thank you." Tetebino Hihibino smiles at you. Carina De'bayle lightens at this, having just unbundled Aegisan from his feeding session and burping the little baby. "Aha!" Killian Waltz: "I...yes, I do," Killian says with some resignation.

Hikari Inamoto: "...Ohhhhh..." Hikari nods slowly. "...That makes more sense..." Akito Saejima: ...Wait, so the man was a baby the entire time? Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Carina De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto: "...K--Kito..." Adelise De'bayle: "It is no trouble Killian," she laughs lightly, "what would you like?" Cinnabar Prentice blinks over to Carina and the so-named babe, head canting the opposite direction now. A genuinely amused smile oozing onto her face. Seisyll Haerviu: "It uh... It has been a long time since uh... Since I've heard this story." He clears his throat, and looks to Akito. "No, the man was that baby's namesake. My father." Jancis Milburga checks in on Killian, then notices she forgot to get a soup ladel! Apologizes quietly, she goes and fetches one! A gravy one, at least, which is close and better than a normal spoon. Denz De'bayle: Aegisan went on to earn many titles within the Temple Knights. When he learned that he could be a father, those titles and glory meant little to him, returning to his wife and son that he may impart his wisdom on him as soon as he was able. Akito Saejima scratched at his chin. "...Ah. That makes far more sense than my initial thought." Astrelle De'bayle smiles mid-chew. Her gaze dips to the baby in Carina's arms, finishing the food in her mouth before washing it down with a swig of wine. "That is a good story, Denz." She looks to Aoki. "Our parents... if you've need of clarification." Her eyes flit to Akito. Killian Waltz: "Uh, I...I'll have some soup. And vegetables...thank you," Killian says softly. Denz De'bayle: And then two more children blessed the family, and then a fourth. Aoki Miyamatsu tipped her head as she looked at Astrelle. "Is that supposed to be a relative of yours?" Seisyll Haerviu nods, and then looks to Denz once more. Denz De'bayle: But yes... that is the story of how our parents met. Denz De'bayle looks stumped. Astrelle De'bayle: "Aegisan? He was our father." She nods at Denz's words. Denz De'bayle stood there awkwardly. He wasn't very good at -ending- his stories properly. Cinnabar Prentice claps for Denz De'bayle. Jancis Milburga: "Denz. That is so sweet. When did you learn that story?" Gaelle Favagenieur claps for Denz De'bayle. Aoki Miyamatsu: "Oh," she chuckled, "That's... very romantic." Aoki Miyamatsu claps for Denz De'bayle. You clap for Denz De'bayle. Carina De'bayle hugged Aegisan close to her to clap, then having Aegisan clap himself and waving his arms up, "wooo! Go grandpa!"

Lawrence Wallace gave a small smile, having been paying patient attention while the story was told. "A very nice story, yes. "

Astrelle De'bayle: "Appropriate for the season, I suppose." She cuts into her meat, spearing it on her fork. "I meant to ask how your other friends are celebrating, Aoki. I know most of them are quite  fond of the idea of romance." Adelise De'bayle reaches to pour Killian a bowl of soup, along with fetch him a plate of vegetables. Setting them before him, she offered him his utensils. "There is also some bread, of course. It is on the plate with your vegetables." Denz De'bayle: Mother used to tell me that story. I think it was supposed to reinforce that I'd have a chance of finding someone to be with one day, under unlikely circumstances. Denz De'bayle: They certainly were. Denz De'bayle nods to you. Denz De'bayle smiles at you.

Cinnabar Prentice: "Mmh... Heh~" The roegadyn curtails her glee to look about those present again- perhaps for chastising glares. Though hearing clapping and conversation, takes her cue to begin serving herself with the near vacant spread. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto smiles warmly up to Denz on the stage. "...That's...that's a nice story." Jancis Milburga smiles gently up at Denz before bowing her head, rubbing at her cheek absently, "She was beyond wise in such." Lucius Guiscareaux turned his attention to his plate, finally filling it with food now that he had discreetly finished off his first glass of wine. He mostly took meat, not much vegetables.. Denz De'bayle smiles at everyone. "Thank you for your kind words. Now! You are no longer hostages to my tongue! Speak amongst yourselves" Hikari Inamoto: "..." Carina De'bayle glances down toward Aegisan, her smile wavering some. "Your Papa loves you very much Aegisan," she whispers to the baby, "and he loves your Mommy as well." Hikari Inamoto raises her hand. Killian Waltz smiles a little toward Adelise as he takes the cutlery from her. "Thank you, my light," he murmurs quietly, identifying his food carefully with his fork and knife. Lucius Guiscareaux: "Miss Hikari, have you managed to scoop that spoon out?" Gaelle Favagenieur blinks at the spoon-less soup pot. Hikari Inamoto: "Uhm....Uh, no. Actually. I was gonna ask if...if we can have another spoon." Lawrence Wallace turned to his plate, piling it rather high with food to begin digging in. He was a slow and careful eater, not spilling even a single piece. Aoki Miyamatsu finally decided to poke at her food now that the story was finished, and paid extra attention to her manners as she ate. Even to the way she sat, making sure her back was straight. "Hmm... I'm not too sure, to be honest! I think Kyuusei was having a dinner with his partner. He didn't seem too excited. Something about not seeing the point in celebrating." Denz De'bayle hops down from his pedestal, smoothing out his apron. Jancis Milburga stands up as tall as she can and kisses Denz's cheek, "Thank you for sharing that. It is perfect." Seisyll Haerviu turns his attention away from Denz now, reaching to serve himself some food now - getting a healthy amount of meat and bread, and just enough vegetables to say that he ate some. Adelise De'bayle smiles to Killian, bringing a hand to rub at his back. Denz De'bayle blinked at the kiss, smiling down at Jancis. "Was it? I am glad. There are more stories, but we'll need more parties to share those." Denz De'bayle gazes upon you in deep reflection. Tetebino Hihibino continues to eat his meal, quietly and carefully, smiling some with each bite. Jancis Milburga: "Yes. Much as I want to ask you to stay up there and keep telling stories..." Jancis Milburga perks up, "I can tell one. I can tell one about Menphina." Hikari Inamoto perks up slightly. Denz De'bayle: The 'Love Goddess'? Denz De'bayle fails to understand you. Astrelle De'bayle raises a hand to cover the soft chuckle that leaves her mouth. "I can sympathise with both sides of that," she nods, taking a bite of food. She chews methodically, rearranging her food upon the plate to keep everything apart from itself. "And you? Minus this, of course. And your brother?" Jancis Milburga: "The Lover, yes." Cinnabar Prentice quietly noshes on her portions; eyes and ears now drawn from her little bubble to at least spy and eavesdrop on the others. Hikari Inamoto: "...Now that I...think of it. I don't really know the exact story behind..." Lucius Guiscareaux picked at his food, slowlyt. He was content. with the meat, and had no need for any food that was actually good for him. "Love Goddess? Isn't that more of an after dinner sort of story? Dessert, even?"

Hikari Inamoto: "...Akito, how did your parents meet?" Denz De'bayle places his hand on Jancis shoulder, nodding before he looked at Lucius. "Is it?" Jancis Milburga: "Oh. I can wait." You smile at Denz De'bayle. Denz De'bayle nods. "Very well. Should I start taking out the dessert?" Jancis Milburga looks across at Hikari, "I am curious how other people met, now, too." Aoki Miyamatsu: "It's how he is," she chuckled, "Can't recall the last time I saw him actually look /excited/. Even when we were kids." She shook her head. "Other than this, well.. I didn't have anything else! I made chocolate together with a few from my company. The ones I sent you!" Jancis Milburga nods, "Yes please. I will help. You worked so hard on it." Lucius Guiscareaux: "I was merely making a joke...but..nevermind it. This food is delicious." Akito Saejima: Mm? Well, they were an arranged marriage. Arranged by our mother's parents, that is. At the time, father's parents had already passed, leaving him the head of his household. Killian Waltz eats carefully and patiently, apparently content to just listen, following his usual strange ritual of using his cutlery for everything - even the bread set aside on his plate. Denz De'bayle gestures for Jancis to lead the way to the kitchen. "After you, my love." Seisyll Haerviu quietly chews on a chunk of meat. Jancis Milburga smiles and gathers up little dessert plates and cups for tea and coffee. Denz De'bayle >> *Denz takes a moment as they are grabbing the dessert's to cling to Jancis' arm, turning her towards him to place a kiss on her lips.* Gaelle Favagenieur would, having finished her small plate of vegetables, serve herself a small portion of meat, digging in to the new addition eagerly. Akito Saejima: Though, according to her, even after they'd arranged the match, mother's parents were incredibly stringent towards possible suitors, and even after they'd chosen him, Sendo had to jump through countless hoops to finally convince mother's parents to give him her hand. Tetebino Hihibino finishes off the last of his meal, pushing the plate away slightly, despite looking at the servings again. Astrelle De'bayle smiles through another bite of food. She makes sure to swallow before speaking. "Thank you, again. I hope the wine is treating you well? I procured it from my brother's cupboard. Not Denz," she adds gently as her gaze flits upward to seek out the youngest De'bayle brother. "Armont. You have not met him, but he is Carina's husband and Count of House De'bayle." She motions vaguely in front of her to the blonde Hyur. "That is Carina and Aegisan, her baby." Jancis Milburga: "Arranged marriage? That does sound amazing. To know early on who you will be with. Plan with and work together." Cinnabar Prentice clears her throat softly after finishing a bite, musing quietly to those immediately flanking her: "A... A dish, best served warm, n-no less." Then the next bite to squelch her, eyes on her plate as she toils a moment- segragating the tiny piles of food. Carina De'bayle peers up toward Astrelle and her friend, waving Aegisan's hand with a somewhat sad smile. >> Denz De'bayle: Jancis pauses, hands half-moving to the task she was ready to fill them with, eyes locked on Denz after returning partially the surprising kiss. "Denz Love?" She asks quietly. Hikari Inamoto: "I remember they, uh. Akito's parents used to...set up meetings with, uh. With potential suitors for him and his siblings. When we were children. Though they never...never seemed to go well." Aoki Miyamatsu took small bites of her food inbetween sentences. "I've been enjoying it! Slowly. Thank you." Her attention turned to the blonde Hyur and the baby, and she offered them both a friendly smile and a wave. Hikari Inamoto: "What sort of things, uh. Did he have to do? Your father, I mean." Denz De'bayle >> *Denz simply stares down at her, a small smile on his lips. After a few silent moments, he whispers lightly.* "I love you."

Denz De'bayle reaches around Jancis, grabbing the desserts to move to the serving table, a grin on his face. Jancis Milburga slowly follows with one of the smaller desserts, smiling happily down at it. Astrelle De'bayle offers both warm smiles reserved for them alone, returning to her plate of food. She'd pick a few more pieces from her plate, swallowing them easily as she further kept everything separate from each other, finishing one section before moving onto the next. "Oh, regarding..." Astrelle pauses and lowers her voice considerably, leaning over a bit to whisper to Aoki. Lawrence Wallace was similarly eating his meal, but was mishmashing it all together. Each forkfull held parts from three sides, and yet he managed to not spill it. Magical. Akito Saejima filled up his bowl with soup from the center bowl oncemore, carefully manuevering his spoon around where the serving spoon had fallen. He glanced over to Guillemont, then over towards Jancis, then back to Hikari. "Oh? Well, ah... Sendo Saejima and Goro Nakamura were birds of a feather. When they first told father that he wasn't suitable to take our mother's hand in marriage, he uprooted one of the metal signposts from outside Nakamura Manor in anger." Gaelle Favagenieur clears her throat quietly, dabbing her mouth with her napkin and setting her utensils to the right of her cleared plate. Akito Saejima took a careful spoonful of soup from the bowl, lifting it to his mouth. "Then, he went back home and melted down the signpost, forging it into a sword. Then, he went back and cut down the gates of Nakamura Manor with a single stroke. Or so mother said. She talked about it rather dreamily... I'm sure it was at least partially embellished." Jancis Milburga helps make finished plates and other platters vanish from the table. "I think it is a lovely embellishment. There is always a spark of truth in them." Hikari Inamoto practically chokes on a cut of meat. Akito Saejima blinked. "Are... Are you alright?" Gaelle Favagenieur: "Lucius, would you please pass the wine?" Lucius Guiscareaux handed the bottle ever so carefully to Gaelle. "As you wish." Jancis Milburga: "Should we have a toast before dessert?" You smile at Denz De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto: "...Y...Yeah. Uhm. Just. Hearing that story. You really are like your father. I feel like if someone ever told you that you couldn't do something, you'd react the same sort of way." Seisyll Haerviu: "Toast? With cinnamon?" He pauses. "Sorry, that uh... That was lame." Denz De'bayle: We certainly could! Is there any here who'd wish to lead in a toast? Denz De'bayle makes a straight face at Seisyll Haerviu. Denz De'bayle sees Seisyll Haerviu and buries his face in disbelief. Hikari Inamoto: "...C...Cinnamon toast sounds really good though..." Denz De'bayle: It made her laugh. Jancis Milburga laughs happily, "That was great. I mean with drinks and words!" Jancis Milburga: "I think there is a cinnamon bread..." Jancis Milburga turns her head over to look over at Denz, the bread expert. Gaelle Favagenieur fills a her glass with a healthy portion of wine, offering the bottle to the Countess. "Lady De'bayle, would you care for more wine?" Aoki Miyamatsu: "I don't! Nothing important, at least. Just to let Kyuusei know how long I'll be gone." Denz De'bayle: Thanks for volunteering, Guillemont! You can lead the toast! Denz De'bayle points at Seisyll Haerviu. Adelise De'bayle: "How is your food Killian?" You beam at Seisyll Haerviu. Carina De'bayle: "Mm? Oh no thank you, honey. I am afraid I cannot drink just yet," she smiles lightly, "imagine Aegisan after a few too many drinks!" Killian Waltz still slowly works on what's left of his food, swallowing his last bite before lifting his head some. "Hm?"

Astrelle De'bayle blinks at the sudden raise of volume. "Ah, good. Okay." She nods her understanding while righting herself. "I suppose we can discuss that soon then, aye?" She offers Aoki a weak smile. Seisyll Haerviu gestures to himself. "M-me? Uh... I uh... I d-don't think that uh..." He sighs. "Fine." He rises from his seat. "What to toast to... Uh..." Gaelle Favagenieur blinks, cheeks turning the slightest shade of pink. She very clearly knew nothing about children, let alone raising one. "Forgive me, I had not considered that." Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Carina De'bayle. Carina De'bayle: "It is no worries," she gestures up a hand. Adelise De'bayle: "Your food? Did you enjoy it? There is dessert as well." Killian Waltz: "Oh...yes, it's good." Aoki Miyamatsu realized her voice had been a little louder than intended, and covered her mouth as she muttered a quiet apology, then nodded. "Yes." Seisyll Haerviu: "To uh... To..." He hesitantly raises his glass. "T-to... G-good food and uh... And good friends?" He seems a little unsure of himself. Jancis Milburga smiles, "Two things that are best enjoyed together. Hear hear." Hikari Inamoto: "T...To good food and good friends," Hikari nods, lifting up her water glass. Akito Saejima went to raise his cup, only to realize he didn't actually know where his cup was. Pausing for a moment, he silently held up his large bowl of soup. Adelise De'bayle: "I liked it as well. Were you going to eat any dessert?" Denz De'bayle snorts a bit, holding up a glass of water he collected. "Good, Guillemont. Hear hear." Astrelle De'bayle offers Aoki a soft smile and wrinkle of her nose before turning her attention to Guillemont. "Aye. Hear hear." She raises her wine glass in toast, taking a brief sip immediately afterwards. Tetebino Hihibino raises his glass of water up towards Seisyll, before taking a sip. Gaelle Favagenieur lifts her glass gently infront of her. Killian Waltz: "N-no, I...I'm alright. Thanks though..." Killian murmurs, oblivious to the toast going on around him. Seisyll Haerviu sits back down. "That uh... That was awful. Never uh... Never make me do that again, Denz." Lawrence Wallace raised his glass in a silent cheers. Denz De'bayle: Practice, mine brother. Lucius Guiscareaux blinked slowly at Guillemont. "To friends." He raised his glass slowly. Alleria Surlaint held a glass high  herself. "Hear hear." she called out before lowering the glass of water to take a drink. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Lucius Guiscareaux. Denz De'bayle: Right, I will pass out the dessert, and Jancis shall be the one next to weave a tale for youi. Jancis Milburga: "That is a lie. Simple is quite good." Jancis reaches over to hug Guillemont's shoulders. "And it means a lot coming from you." Jancis Milburga: "Well it is a little tale. About the Moonless Moon." Hikari Inamoto: "...G...Guillemont, you know that you're going to say 'never again', and that just...that's just going to make him make you do it again sometime." Seisyll Haerviu offers Jancis a nervous smile, then looks to Hikari. "Well, I uh... I will just have to make him uh... Make him do something he is uncomfortable with in return." Astrelle De'bayle: "Like play the piano," she offers. Akito Saejima: That is rather foreboding. Seisyll Haerviu: "How does that sound, Denz? Playing the uh... Playing the piano?" Jancis Milburga laughs a bit, "That is a-" She pauses at Astrelle's comment, immediately looking thoughtful. Hikari Inamoto: "Ah--ah, right! I forgot that you said you...you play piano. And you tried violin once, too, didn't you, Denz...?" Tetebino Hihibino: "I mean, there -is- a piano just over the way...."

Denz De'bayle began cutting up slices of pies, cakes, and other tasteful desserts, going from person to person and setting down their preference of dessert. "Aye. Though the violin was a lossed cause, I can still wave a tune on the piano. Seisyll Haerviu: "I uh... I have been told that I am quite adept at uh... At the triangle." You beckon to Quarcy Questant. Adelise De'bayle: "We are playing music?" Adelise asks out confusingly, clearly coming in late on the conversation. Jancis Milburga smiles up at Quarcy, "Good eve, Lord. You are in time for dessert. I can get you something else if you like?" Quarcy Questant: " I'm afraid I didn't bring a date ? " Tetebino Hihibino opts to pass on the dessert, but thinks Denz nontheless. Quarcy Questant: " Desert is fine " Tetebino Hihibino: ((thanks*)) Akito Saejima: I do not know how to play any instruments. Killian Waltz closes his eyes and rubs his forehead as if staving off a headache. Akito Saejima: Well, besides the steel drum. Jancis Milburga: "That is quite all right, Lord. I have no need of a date." You smile at Quarcy Questant. Seisyll Haerviu: "Steel drum?" Quarcy Questant stifles a chuckle Akito Saejima: Yes. It is a drum. Made of steel. Lucius Guiscareaux: "Please....no more steel drums.." Gaelle Favagenieur: "Would you care for dessert, Lucius?" Quarcy Questant: " Very well, I'm in your care " Akito Saejima stares, blank-faced. Seisyll Haerviu: "Fascinating." Jancis Milburga: "I will do it to the best of mine ability! Let me get you a chair to join the others. Your shirt and book are so handsome. I am Jancis." Hikari Inamoto seems lost in thought. Quarcy Questant: " Quarcy, Quarcy Questant " Hikari Inamoto: "...Kaa-san used to play ehru, but, uh..." Hikari Inamoto: "..." Hikari Inamoto: "I can whistle. Kind of." Quarcy Questant: " And your dress is equally energetic " Quarcy Questant wonders if that is how complilments work. Akito Saejima stares. "...Is it? Well, I suppose Sensei always described the steel drum as the gentle hummings of angels... Though he was especially passionate regarding the art." Jancis Milburga repeats, "Lord Quarcy" Before dragging over the biggest wooden chair, really announcing Quarcy's arrival. Aoki Miyamatsu put aside her now empty plate and leaned back somewhat in her seat. "I enjoyed this a lot. Thank you for inviting me." Seisyll Haerviu: "You can whistle? I uh... I cannot, actually. Well, I uh... I can make a uh... Like, a kettle whistle sound, but not a tune." He looks back to Akito. "Drums hum?" Jancis Milburga: "It is quite a squeeze. This is so nice. Far more people came than I hoped." Hikari Inamoto: "I guess when you think about it, it's like a giant bell that you ring with your hands. Instead of a clapper." Hikari Inamoto: "...s...sort of." Hikari Inamoto seems lost in thought. Denz De'bayle continues passing out desserts. Gaelle Favagenieur politely, if not a bit eagerly, stabs into her cake with her fork.

Jancis Milburga: "Thank you. It has hearts on it. Everyone dressed up. It is nice to do something a little different now and then and enjoy all we work so hard for." Cinnabar Prentice looks to Quarcy as he arrives! Dipping her head with a nod should he happen upon her- quietly piecing supper into her fa-- oh- accepting her dessert, actually! Well then. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Quarcy Questant. Akito Saejima: Well... metaphorical hum. But the steel drum produces a rather low humming, in a way. Quarcy Questant: " Indeed ? I got a memo but the handwriting seemed to hint at a delicious trap " Denz De'bayle offers Hikari Inamoto a humble greeting. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Quarcy Questant. Jancis Milburga: "Denz did mention he wrote a note..." Astrelle De'bayle seems to have been lost in her own meal. "Hm?" She turns to Aoki, a soft smile etching across her features. "Of course. Wonderful company is hard to come by." She nods, finishing off her own plate and placing it aside. Quarcy Questant would wink at Gaelle. If he could wink. Hikari Inamoto sucks in a breath through pursed lips. A whistling sound does occur, but it's inconsistent and wavering. Lucius Guiscareaux stared right back at Quarcy. Cinnabar Prentice 's ears probably perked several times at the mention of cinnamon this or that, looking around to each who'd spoken the word... Jancis Milburga glances over, smiling warmly at Denz a moment, "He is complicated and trickey like that. I was just about to tell a story." Squeezing Quarcy's arm happily, she leaves him to warm up to everyone else. Seisyll Haerviu: "Yeah, that's uh... That's about as whistly of a sounds as I can make." Denz De'bayle: Any desserts for you, sir...? Quarcy Questant: " Pay it no mind, I find every social function to be an adventure " Jancis Milburga: "Right! Where was I? Yes! The Moonless Moon!" Quarcy Questant: " What is there to have ? " Denz De'bayle: Forgive me, we have not met. Quarcy Questant: " Quarcy, Quarcy Questant " Quarcy Questant would offer a hand. Quarcy Questant: " For now a librarian in your ranks " Aoki Miyamatsu nodded in agreement, "And the food was great too. Think I ended up eating a little too much. Let's hope it doesn't stick," she chuckled. Akito Saejima moved to shovel down the remainder of the soup in his bowl, placing the empty bowl back on the table. "I never learned to whistle, either." Jancis Milburga climbs up on the stage. "Now Menphina is as mysterious as Her moon. Sometimes full, sometimes new, waning and waxing... but there was one time where the moon vanished entirely." Denz De'bayle ravels the hand in his own mitten, leaving some flour or sprinkles, some manner of food particles on Quarcy's hand. "Denz De'bayle. Pleasure." He turned up to Jancis, listening to her story. Jancis Milburga: "It was during Menphina's Moon. There was a beautiful woman that all came from across the land to see, claiming she was the beautiful Lover Herself. She was the youngest daughter of a rich merchant and was use to finery. However, with the gifts would be suitors came with to her like those of divine offerings, she soon became more entranced by the idea of more riches and being worshipped." Gaelle Favagenieur sets her fork down to best give Jancis her polite attention. Hikari Inamoto stares up at Jancis with her cheeks shoved full of cinnamon bread. Denz De'bayle silently returns to handing out desserts. Quarcy Questant turned to a story immediately. STORIES ! Jancis Milburga smiles, "This of course reached the ears of the goddess, and each night it seemed for awhile like the moon was brightest over the house where the vain woman lived and was fawned over. And each night the woman got more vainful, and more prideful, believing she was loved above all else and grew to demand it."

Astrelle De'bayle gestures back towards the bar with a chuckle. "Forget not that there is more wine as well. I may partake in another serving," she muses, her eyes flitting over before she turns her attention to Jancis. Jancis Milburga: "Poems were ignored, songs were scoffed at, gifts were scrutinized as the woman desired something more lavish and extravagant. Appearance was also belittled, how could someone be loved if they were not worthy of her?" Jancis Milburga frowns, shaking her head slowly in some light acting, "Then. On the first sun of the first umbral moon, a person of incredible beauty joined the line of other suitors. Now, you see, the line to see this woman was so long it took the entire month to finally get an audience with her. So this amazing person that left all the other suitors staring." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Think I've had enough wine. You know I can't handle much of it, and I'd like to get home tonight," she let out another chuckle before turning her attention to Jancis. Quarcy Questant would let the powder dust his book. He didn't mind it because the story was interesting. Seisyll Haerviu takes a bite of cake, chewing it slowly as he listens to Jancis speak. Jancis Milburga pauses, hands up. Jancis Milburga: "And that night, there was no moon. A clear perfect night... without a moon. And that night no one paid it no mind. But then the next did not. And the next. And after. All the while, the most beautiful person waited in line each day getting closer and closer to the mysterious lady fabled to be Menphina." Jancis Milburga: "As the month continued on, everyone watched the mysterious stranger in the line as the vain woman started to panic. Why was the moon gone? Was she not the moon? Had she really believed she could be it? At last, on the last day of Menphina's Moon, the beautiful person made it to the front and everyone had stayed to follow, still speechless, still in awe at the quiet person in line." Tetebino Hihibino gazes upon you in deep reflection. Denz De'bayle stares at Jancis while blindly sliding desserts towards Astrelle and Aoki, whether or not they requested them. Jancis Milburga smiles at everyone at the table, "This person looked different to everyone who looked. Some saw them look motherly. Some fatherly. Some handsome. Some feminine. All enchanting. And it took some time for people to realize that what they saw was...." Jancis Milburga: "Unique and personal to them and them alone." You smile at Denz De'bayle. Hikari Inamoto: "...Ah..." Astrelle De'bayle blinks down at the dessert as it arrives. "You are always welcome to stay with us, of course," Astrelle offers, shaken from her idle listening. Her eyes return to Aoki for a brief moment, "Though I wouldn't wish to keep you from your home." Jancis Milburga: "Some saw the person look like Denz. I mean not that. I was not in line there." Akito Saejima: So it's a shapechanging creature of some kind.

Hikari Inamoto: "...N...No, Akito. The stranger was actually Menphina."

You beam at Hikari Inamoto. Akito Saejima: Oh. Jancis Milburga: "Yes! Precisely! The Lover came down to join the line." Denz De'bayle blinks, realizing the compliment and blushing silently. Hikari Inamoto: "I knew that...uh. That there would be know way that Menphina's love would be. Uhm...what's the...the word. C...Conditional. Like that. Asking for expensive gifts. That's not...not really love." Quarcy Questant: " Robbed of moonlight for a month, So then what happened ? " Quarcy Questant: "No .. not robbed.. Bereft ? " Quarcy Questant: " Phrasing... "

Jancis Milburga smiles and continues at Quarcy's urging, "And at the front of the line, the true Menphina came to the front to the beautiful woman and all went dark and cold, a chill breeze that made everyone shiver. Take a deep breath of the cool air and feel the crisp snow that came down on the courtyard. Her gift to the woman." Jancis Milburga: "She said nothing, which is good for Her voice would cause all to be lost to other love." Aoki Miyamatsu grimaced at the desert. Not because there was anything wrong with it, but because the thought of eating desert on top of what she had already eaten was a little too much for the Raen. "I appreciate that. But your family's been generous enough. Besides.. You've seen what happens when I drink too much. I'd rather not embarass myself on top of overstaying my welcome." Cinnabar Prentice nurses her sweets; relishing the rich flavor as much as the story at hand- eyes fixed upon Jancis. Akito Saejima stares at Jancis, unblinking and either completely enthralled or completely lost at the story. Jancis Milburga: "But in the snow there was a song, a hum, and the chill made so she had to not stand alone, or be cold. The meaning was becoming clear, love takes work. To stay warm in anotherwise cold dark life." Quarcy Questant turned the page. Subconciously, perhaps. Hikari Inamoto smiles a slow, warm smile at that. Hikari Inamoto: "...snrf..." Astrelle De'bayle breathes a playful air. "Aye, though I much doubt any would judge you." Her smile faltered into a thoughtful line. "The invitation is always open, of course, but I don't wish to press upon it." She brought her lips up into a soft smile. Jancis Milburga: "It was not free. And came in many forms. She then looked to her family, who had waited for her to fall to help her come back and redeem herself. She saw friends, and she sank down into the snow and bowed to Menphina, thanking her just as the night reached its height." Jancis Milburga raises her hands up, "And Menphina then, in the last moments of Her Moon, gifted them with the most beautiful blushing moonshine, fading from view back into the sky." Jancis Milburga: "And that was the Moonless Moon." Gaelle Favagenieur gazes upon you in deep reflection. Denz De'bayle claps for you. Denz De'bayle congratulates you. Jancis Milburga looks about, bouncing and smiling, then bows her head. Hikari Inamoto claps for you. Jancis Milburga: "It is a mystery what happened to the beautiful woman. I like to think she found real love." Aoki Miyamatsu chuckled, "Thank you." Cinnabar Prentice had waxed thoughtful with a furrowed brow in the tale's progression; taking a moment to linger with an empty mouth. Applauding with a thin smile ere she would take the next bite. Jancis Milburga looks about in the quiet dessert eating, "I could be wrong, though." Hikari Inamoto lifts up a knuckle to rub at the corner of her eye. Astrelle De'bayle admittedly hadn't paid as much attention to that story as the last. She made to clap when she realized others were, but remembered the glass of wine still in her hand. So instead she took a final sip of it, draining the liquid within and placing it carefully upon the table. She glanced then to the dessert with a defeated sigh. "Are you eating yours?" she asked gently of Aoki. Cinnabar Prentice gazes upon you in deep reflection. Carina De'bayle: "That was lovely, wasn't it Aegisan," she pressed a finger to her baby's nose. You smile at Carina De'bayle. Lucius Guiscareaux picked up at his own cake, smiling all the while. "Gaelle, are you eating?" Lawrence Wallace: "A very nice story." he'd nod, giving Jancis a smile once his dessert was finished. Jancis Milburga: "Thank you! It might be true! Or at least part of it." Cinnabar Prentice >> (I HAVE NO GOOD SCREENIES OF JANCIS! Quick, get somewhere close and cozy! Possibly with the Denz!)

Denz De'bayle swivels around the mass of people, moving around to walk towards Jancis. Gaelle Favagenieur jabs at the half-eaten cake in front of her. "Oh course! I'm surprised you took dessert, trutfully. I admit I may have the slightest sweet tooth myself..." Akito Saejima reluctantly reached over to grab a piece of cake, then cut that piece of cake into an even smaller piece, then a smaller piece, until what was on his plate was basically a cake-fragment. Jancis Milburga nearly walks into Denz, smiling. "It made it easy to understand that Menphina looks like love." Aoki Miyamatsu: "All yours if you want it," she picked up the plate and held it out for Astrelle, "I thought you weren't fond of sweets?" Her voice carried a playful tone. Lucius Guiscareaux: "I love cake, admittingly.." Astrelle De'bayle turns her head to Aoki. "I'm not," she mutters as her eyes fall to the woman's dessert. "I was about to ask if you wanted /mine/." Gaelle Favagenieur smirks, "Something more we've in common." Hikari Inamoto: "..." Hikari leans over to stare at the way Akito cut his cake. "...baby cake..." Lucius Guiscareaux: "Something more indeed.." Akito Saejima: ...Baby-whatnow? Quarcy Questant sank back in his chair and opened his book. This warmth of company was nice. Jancis Milburga: "Did everyone want to play music? I can carry a harp up from downstairs... um... there is the piano.... or singing?" Hikari Inamoto: "It's so little." Denz De'bayle grins back. "A simple statement to hear, but one not so easily understood." He carefully grabs her hand in his flour-y mitten. "I pity those than do not." Akito Saejima looked back to the cake. "Oh." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Oh," she chuckled, "I misunderstood. No, I've had more than enough to eat tonight." Her attention shifted towards the rest of the table, in search of the person who she heard mentioning their love for cake. Jancis Milburga laughs, beaming at that grin, "As I. That reminds me. This loveseat." Hikari Inamoto: "G--wait, music? All of us? Together? At the same time?" Hikari's face goes pale. Denz De'bayle clears his throat, turning back to the congregation of people. "Hm... I fear people's energy is all but spent after food and stories." Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at Hikari Inamoto. Killian Waltz: "There's a fountain downstairs..." Killian mumbles to no one in particular. Jancis Milburga squeezes Denz's hand and backs up to free him. "Then we can sit here and talk." Jancis Milburga: "Though I think Lady Astrelle and her friend are the special seat of honor this night." Denz De'bayle looks at you in shock! Gaelle Favagenieur blinks in Killian's direction, the mention of the oddity capturing her attention. "A fountain?" Astrelle De'bayle pushes her plate of dessert forward to the middle of the table and 'conveniently' forgets to pick it back up, instead reclining back into her seat-- until she overhears her name. She blinks in confusion. Denz De'bayle: I... I didn't know that did that. Denz De'bayle tries to comfort Astrelle De'bayle. Astrelle De'bayle: "...wh-" Killian Waltz: "Yes. A big fountain. Lots of water. But the sound is smooth, not rough or choppy. Like...a sheet of water, all falling smoothly in a curtain." Adelise De'bayle: "Hmm? Ah, I believe I remember that. Did you want to go touch it?" Hikari Inamoto looks quietly relieved at the fact that she doesn't have to sing anything. Cinnabar Prentice >>  :thumbs_up: Got a couples.) Killian Waltz: "Uh, I--I did already..." Killian says, his face turning pink at this admission. >> Cinnabar Prentice: :D Aww thank you!))

Adelise De'bayle smiles lightly, "do you not want to touch it more?" Seisyll Haerviu casts a glance to the Roegadyn again, offering a small wave as he chews a bite of cake. Akito Saejima simply picked up the small fragment of cake from his plate and tossed it into his mouth. "Mm..." Jancis Milburga tries to peek around the wings. Aoki Miyamatsu gave up her search and turned towards Jancis, "Um.." then shifted a little awkwardly in her seat as her pale cheeks turned pink. "This seat is... quite something, isn't it? It even has wings.." she muttered. Jancis Milburga: "It truly is! All in good fun!" You smile at Aoki Miyamatsu. Astrelle De'bayle stares blankly. Her gaze turns to Denz and she blinks a few times before collecting herself, holding out her empty wine glass. "Would you, Denz?" Denz De'bayle nods, taking the difficult route by practically smothering Jancis against the wall as he passes her, then struggles to reach under a wing and over Aoki for the wine glass. Jancis Milburga squeezes around Denz, mushing to the stairs a moment. Killian Waltz: "Um, n-no...I just...if we were going downstairs, but...if everyone's staying here, then...we should stay." Astrelle De'bayle screws her mouth as she leans further to help her youngest brother, practically forcing the glass into his mitten. "Thank you," she murmurs. Cinnabar Prentice had lost herself in an inflected moment, attention focused upon her cake if anywhere outside herself. Eventually her eyes blink up- and soon to Guillemont. Her chewing paused, clearing her throat a touch- forcing a swallow, all just to return an awkward, little smile... A visible moment of thought for why she had to swallow in order to smile following after. Lawrence Wallace: "It makes me glad I chose to sat in this chair, rather than that one." Denz De'bayle grunts as he grasps the glass, pulling his way out and catching one the wing. He mutters to himself as he fluffs his way out from the wing, struggling momentarily next to Aoki before freeing himself. Hikari Inamoto lifts a hand to cover her mouth in a yawn. "...Is. Uhm. Is the cake good, Akito?" Seisyll Haerviu almost laughs at this - nearly choking on his cake as a result. He clears his throat, shakings his head slightly as he does so. "I uh..." He clears his throat again. "I do not think uh... I did not catch your name." Aoki Miyamatsu leaned back to try to make room for Denz, not wanting an accidental elbow or something in her face. Thankfully, everything seemed to go well. Akito Saejima: Ah, it-- it was, yes. Though, I only ate a small amount... I try not to... eat too many sweets, these days... While I was studying in Hinashi, I'd... Astrelle De'bayle briefly turns to Aoki. "I think even /I/ may need more wine to continue sitting here," she half-jests with a glance to the wings of the chair, confusion written on her face. Akito Saejima frowned. "I'd often... eat far too much mochi, if it were offered to me." Akito Saejima: Though, that is-- That's mochi. It's different. Akito Saejima: Somehow. Aoki Miyamatsu covered her mouth as she laughed, "Well, it was /your/ idea." Jancis Milburga "joins" the table, keeping an eye out if anyone needs anything. "That is a nice chair. How did you come to join, Lord Law?" Denz De'bayle takes the empty glass, pouring wine from the open bottle and carefully holding it out for Aoki to take, instead of struggling through her this time. Hikari Inamoto gazes upon Seisyll Haerviu in deep reflection. Hikari Inamoto gazes upon Akito Saejima in deep reflection. Lawrence Wallace: "Join the house? I met Adelise on a job I had taken to cull the local Morbol population out by...where was it..." Aoki Miyamatsu took the glass and smiled, then forwarded it to Astrelle. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at Alleria Surlaint.

Astrelle De'bayle accepts the wine with a grateful dip to conveyer belt of passing. "Thanks," she says before taking a much needed swig. Denz De'bayle: Everything alright, my lady? Hikari Inamoto: "...I remember, uh. When we were little, one of the neighbor boys made fun of you for liking sweets so much and said it was...uh. Wasn't manly. Or...s...something like that." Lawrence Wallace: "I can't remember the place exactly, but we had a bit of a butting heads for our first conversation. Neither of us are very flexible with our beliefs, but we managed to strike up a friendship through it." Lawrence Wallace: "After time of speaking she offered to introduce me, and suggested I offer my services. So I did." Quarcy Questant turns the page whilst sipping from a hip flask smelling of a concoction of drinks. Akito Saejima frowned. "Ah..." He looked back to his plate. "I remember. Well, I mostly remember the punishment from father that came shortly after that." Cinnabar Prentice blinks, sinking into her collar with a spreading rouge upon freckled cheeks. "Ah... Pardon," the roegirl begins, clearing her throat a touch more to return her voice. "Cinnabar... Prentice. A-and, you are... Guillemont? I-if, I heard, correct?" Jancis Milburga widens her eyes, "Morbols. Those are most vicious. Not something to be around alone, either. Very glad you both ran into one another. Do you have other family?" Gaelle Favagenieur finishes both cake and the remaining wine in her glass. She'd push the glass forward hoping it would catch the eye of those passing around the bottle. Hikari Inamoto: "You broke his tooth, uh...didn't y--" Hikari pauses and IMMEDIATELY cricks her neck towards Jancis at the mention of morbols. Hikari Inamoto: "Morbols?" Akito Saejima: ... Lucius Guiscareaux: "..." Lawrence Wallace: "I do not, no. My only relation is the woman who raised me. A kindly Hyuran woman that took me in as a child." Gaelle Favagenieur: "Is... something the matter, Lucius?" Alleria Surlaint waved her hand dismissively "I'm quite alright." she let out a soft yawn raising a hand to cover her mouth. "Simply tired and enjoying the wonderful company present here." Alleria Surlaint smiles at Denz De'bayle. Quarcy Questant 's eyebrow raised at Lawrence's story. Seisyll Haerviu nods. "Yes, but uh... Only in trusted company. In uh... In public, it is best that I do not use my real name." He pauses. "What uh... What connection do you have to uh..." He makes a vague gesture to the table. "Everyone. One of uh... Of Jancis' friends?" Jancis Milburga nods at Hikari as she listens to Lawrence. "Yes. We were talking how Law came to be with us here." Astrelle De'bayle idly looks between those gathered before she turns her attention back to Aoki. She doesn't speak right away, instead tilting her glass back for another pull of wine. "Mm. I did receive a gift from a friend just the other sun, Aoki. I should check on him, else I fear he'd destroy my bookshelf." Jancis Milburga: "I think she would count, Law. Very much so." Lawrence Wallace: "I would think so, too. Nanna's...stubborn. But a genuinely kind woman. Devout, patient, and terrifying to any who cross her." Akito Saejima 's eyes are drawn over towards Guillemont at the mention of his real name. "Mrm..." Hikari Inamoto: "I, uhm. I know a morbol. I mean, I tamed one. Guillemont and Akito both, uh. Both have seen her before. Hana." Aoki Miyamatsu tipped her head, "Check on your friend? Or your.. gift?" Akito Saejima: I do not think Hana likes me. Denz De'bayle smiles at the blue-haired woman. "That is good to hear. I apologize Lady Lyriah could not make it. Would you like some cake to bring back to her?

Denz De'bayle: Bread? Quarcy Questant | WIthout thinking about it, Quarcy has poured himself more than half a glass of wine. He then took a quiet sip. Lucius Guiscareaux rose to his feet, offering a hand for Gaelle. "I do aprpeciate the dinner, Denz, Lady Jancis. But I best believe it is time we were off. I have a long trip I need to prepare for, and I am quite stuffed. If I stay any longer I dare say I'd end up sleeping on the floor again.." Jancis Milburga: "It is little wonder you got along with Adelise so quickly. I have Denz and his family that I can. Can say is mine." Astrelle De'bayle smiles gently. "Gift. Would you wish to accompany? He is simply /adorable/." The normally reserved woman shifts excitedly in her seat. You smile at Lucius Guiscareaux. Hikari Inamoto frowns and tilts her head slightly to the side. "W...well. Hana doesn't like--doesn't like anyone who isn't me. Mostly. But you did--did make her choke. So I'm sure she would be...uh..." Jancis Milburga: "The floor would be very happy to have guests, Lord Lucius! Oh! I mean Lucius! But thank you both for joining us." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Oh, of course! For a moment, I thought you meant to check on your friend. Which is understandable, of course. I did not quite understand why he'd destroy your bookshelf though," she laughed. You smile at Lucius Guiscareaux. Cinnabar Prentice 's head lulled to the side a moment, clearly finding the expounding curious. She nods, nonetheless, in understanding. "Ah... N-no. I, am a recent... inductee, to, House De'bayle... M-most recent if, I am not m... mistaken." Jancis Milburga brightens and tries to wrap up some bread for Gaelle and Lucius to take with! Lawrence Wallace smiled, a gentle and subtle emotion. "Good. They are fiercely loyal to one another. You are in safe hands, and greatly cared for, I am sure." with that he stands, and shimmies behind the LOVE seat. "On that note, though, I've work to be getting ready for. There's a rather powerful dullahan giving trouble to the Adders that I promised my help to." Astrelle De'bayle laughs softly to herself. Draining her glass with a swift swig, standing just /after/ Lawrence manages by. She glances around. "We are not the only ones, it seems." Cinnabar Prentice looks up with Law's announcement, shining the solitary fellow a quirked smile and dipping her head. Gaelle Favagenieur rises with Lucius, accepting his hand. She'd smile politely at their hosts, "Viscount, Lady Jancis, thank you kindly for having us. I admit I have not often participated in such social graces, but this was quite lovely. Thank you." Jancis Milburga: "Pray do be safe and return unscathed!" Akito Saejima pursed his lips. "That... That is true. I was... unaware of how to properly feed a morbol." You smile at Gaelle Favagenieur. Gaelle Favagenieur smiles at you. Lawrence Wallace: "Thank you Lady Jancis, Ser Denz. It was a very nice evening. You have my thanks for the invitation." Carina De'bayle: "You have a good evening Miss Gaelle!" Cinnabar Prentice repeats the motion for Lucius- and Gaelle! Quarcy Questant glipped the glass as the half orb swished around his hand. Noticing the others getting up, he resolved to drink even faster. Jancis Milburga: "You are welcome. There will be leftovers to bring to Dawn Vigil surely. We can talk more then." Akito Saejima: Then again, I don't imagine the... necessary procedure is quite well-known, I've never heard of a tamed morbol before yours. Adelise De'bayle: "Enjoy your night, Miss Favagenieur."

Alleria Surlaint: "Hmmm I'm sure she would love some bread. I should probably get going otherwise I'll pass out on the way back to the estate." Alleria Surlaint laughs at Denz De'bayle. Lawrence Wallace: "I would like that. Farewell." Killian Waltz: "Have a good evening, Law and Lady Favagenieur. And Ser Guiscareaux." Lucius Guiscareaux: "I'm sure I'll break my arm or something. Knowing my luck. Good night, friends, and I do suppose, Family." Quarcy Questant: " Ah and I did enjoy what time I had here, thank you " Gaelle Favagenieur: "Thank you, Countess. I wish you a plesant evening. Pray we might speak soon." Tetebino Hihibino smiles softly to himself after observing the table so much, before finish up his water and getting off the stool, shuffling behind Jancis and wandering about. Aoki Miyamatsu tried to sneak past Denz without accidentally bumping into him. Though it proved to be a little harder than she anticipated, even with how small she was. Hikari Inamoto: "Morbols, uh...they don't really actually...swallow. Uhm. They kind of hold food in their mouths and digest it in there. I...I mean, if you look at them, they don't really...have stomachs. Just a mouth and then vines under that." Gaelle Favagenieur nods to Killian and Adelise, smiling. "Viscountess, Killian. Good evening." Astrelle De'bayle gingerly pulls her hat from the sash its tucked into, beating it against her thigh before placing it back over her head. "Denz, we are also taking our leave. Thank you for the effort," she says even as she moves by, her hands placed on his shoulders as she scoots around him. "Jancis," she says, looking for the woman, "thank you as well. This was lovely." Killian Waltz: "Good evening, Lady Astrelle." Hikari Inamoto: "So when you just...threw it in...and you throw really hard, too." Carina De'bayle: "Have a good night sister!" Seisyll Haerviu: "Ah, I uh... I see. A squire, then?" He nods slowly. "I uh... I do not think we uh... Have any other Roegadyn in our employ." A pause, and he sets the fork he was eating his cake with down. "Or uh... Are you employed for uh... Some other reason? I uh... I don't mean to assume." Akito Saejima: I... I always assumed that the food, it went... Jancis Milburga waves around the other side of the table. "You are welcome, always! Pray travel safe and rest well." Akito Saejima pursed his lips, looking down to the floor. "..." Hikari Inamoto: "...Ah. That was the night when..." Gaelle Favagenieur: "Good evening, everyone." Carina De'bayle: "Jancis?" Akito Saejima: Ah--! It--... Astrelle De'bayle hums lightly, tipping her hat before moving for the door. Jancis Milburga leans down to Carina, "Yes?" Akito Saejima cleared his throat. "It was, wasn't it?" Aoki Miyamatsu gave a polite half bow to Denz, "Thank you for having me." Denz De'bayle nods at Alleria, rushing to the other counter and beginning to gather up and wrap up bread for Alleria to take with her, going back to Alleria and holding out the bread to her. Hikari Inamoto nods to Akito Saejima. Carina De'bayle: "How are you feeling right now? You have been bustling around all night working, but you have been unwell?" Quarcy Questant turned the page. Perhaps there was merit to lingering a while longer. Jancis Milburga asks softly, "Is it that obvious? Forgive me, I was trying to not let it interrupt our dinner together." Quarcy Questant: " This green chair for example " >> Denz De'bayle: That went pretty well? Denz De'bayle >> I think so! :D

Carina De'bayle: "Oh sweet Jancis, worry not on that. How about they all help out with cleaning. Have you been to see a doctor yet?" She asks, adjusting Aegisan in her arms. Jancis Milburga looks over at Guillemont thoughtfully for a moment before answering Carina. Killian Waltz: "Yes?" Killian says in response to someone mentioning 'doctor,' clearly not paying attention to the conversation around him. Seisyll Haerviu casts a glance to Jancis for a moment. Cinnabar Prentice 's attention returns to Guill, shaking her head softly after listening to the man's piece; attentive and patient. "N-no, you are... correct in, I am a... a, squire. And, mayhap for, being the... only of my, cut, also." Denz De'bayle: Not true, we've hired a handful of other roegadyn before. Jancis Milburga: "I have not. I can now. Now that everyone is home." Denz De'bayle: One was one hell of an improvised battering ram. Denz De'bayle nods to Cinnabar Prentice. Hikari Inamoto: "A...a battering ram?" Seisyll Haerviu: "A... A what now?" Carina De'bayle: "With Killian and I here, I would feel much better if you allowed us to take a look at you before we took our leave. I would rather you be treated for whatever is making you sick." Adelise De'bayle: "I can assist in cleaning." Cinnabar Prentice blinks, looking back to Denz. "Ah... I... I, stand corrected." Jancis Milburga looks about at Carina's offer, glancing back at Denz. Denz De'bayle: Aye, a battering ram. Lowered his head and shoulder and broke through numerous defenses, shield walls, even a stone door once. Akito Saejima cleared his throat, reaching over to idly rest a hand on Hikari's leg. Having finished his food, he leaned back against the back of the bench. "Often people can serve as far more effective battering rams than actual battering rams."

Seisyll Haerviu: "That uh... I think I would have remembered that. It must have been uh..." He pauses. "After my injury." Quarcy Questant hiccuped. Jancis Milburga: "I am glad you could move closer Quarcy. The love seat is free if you want." Hikari Inamoto blinks as she feels Akito's hand on her leg. She quietly rests her hand over his, then clears her throat. "...That was. Uhm. I mean I guess I fight like that a lot. Sometimes. Like a...a battering ram. Just...just charging on ahead. I need to get...get better with parrying. Just going full force into things is a good way to...uhm. Corner myself." Jancis Milburga looks back to Carina. "I. And Killian will not mind?" Akito Saejima: You put your shield to good use during our spar, but that... What was it, that... barrier, it-- Akito Saejima glanced around. "Ah... Well, it was something." Seisyll Haerviu: "I uh... I will be teaching you a more..." He makes a vague gesture with his hand. "Orthodox sort of fighting style, Hikari."

Carina De'bayle: "Of course not, right Killian," she looks over toward the man with a wide smile, expectantly.

Cinnabar Prentice: "Mh... Injury..." Cinnabar dwells on the remark a time, looking to Hikari... In the end, she's looking at Guillemont again with eyes widened a touch more.

Killian Waltz: "Why would I mind? I've been trying to get you to agree to an examination for quite some time now." Quarcy Questant: " I am fine where I am " he gives a soft reply, cake in hand. Wine in another. And a nod to make a page turn on his lap.

Carina De'bayle: "I suppose that is true! Well, have you a room where we might go?" Seisyll Haerviu looks somewhat puzzled at Cinnabar's expression. "Hm?" Hikari Inamoto: "Ah--!" Hikari perks up, shitting up straighter. "Mm! I...I'll do the best I can do to, uh...to grow out of that. Uhm. If it weren't...if it weren't you when...at the thing, I would've been in...uhm..." She trails off, swallowing. Jancis Milburga nods, looking at Killian guiltily. "Forgive me. If. If Lord Tetebino and Lord Quarcy are having fun I do have a room that would work for it." Denz De'bayle: A room for what? Tetebino Hihibino blinks back from wherever his mind was wandering, looking towards Jancis, "Sorry, what now?" Cinnabar Prentice: "No- nothing." She shakes her head subtly; pushing a smile right back onto her lips. "Just... I'm, recalling the, name... V-vaguely, mind." Carina De'bayle: "I simply figured it would not be appropriate to conduct a medical check-up in the middle of a party," she smiles to the woman. Jancis Milburga: "Are you doing well? You are so sweet and quiet. Have you met Lord Quarcy?" She continues to introduce everyone across the other side of the table. Hikari Inamoto: "The. Uhm. That...it uses a lot of my strength. The barrier. I mean, it--it sort of. Uhm. When I get that way, it just burns through my aether. I mean, you..."  She gestures with her other hand. "...You know. You saw it." Denz De'bayle: 'Tis hardly the middle anymore, Carina. Tetebino Hihibino: "Yeah, I'm fine." He smiles before looks over towards Quarcy, "Don't think we've met, no." Akito Saejima coughed, glancing between them. "Ah... If you're in need of more training, we could always train more. Infact, ah... When we find Gotou, I'm sure he'd be happy to teach you as well. Though... Have you through of using a... katana?" Cinnabar Prentice further attempts to dismiss the specific thread of conversation with another shake of the head. "I, I do hope you are, faring... well? A-all, considered, for... your injuries?" Her eyes attempt to draw conversation to... wherever, on the man's person. Arm? Stomach? Knee? Ehh. Seisyll Haerviu: "The name? Vague Mind? Is that a uh... Another Hellsguard?" He pauses. "Or uh... Did you forget my name? It uh... I am Guillemont, but uh... Seisyll in public." Jancis Milburga looks up at Denz and nods to Carina, "That is true." Cinnabar Prentice: "I... wha..." Carina De'bayle: "Well even still Denz," she scoffs, "there are still people enjoying the fesitivities! The after party is just as fun as the actual party!" Jancis Milburga: "I only just met him, as well. He has the most beautiful book, though. I thought since he was new and you have been around maybe you can help him warm up to others if I step away for a short while. I made a promise to Killian and I have not done well keeping it." Quarcy Questant perked up at the mention of his name. " Ah- s-sorry did anyone need for anything ? " Quarcy Questant hiccups. Seisyll Haerviu: "You said you were recalling the name." He pauses. "Uh... My injuries have... Recovered. Without a trace, as it were." Adelise De'bayle: "I will be here still," Adelise notes quickly. "Worry not Jancis, I will keep Mister Tetebino company."

Seisyll Haerviu: "But the uh... The one I was referring to was to uh... To my left shoulder." He wiggles his left arm like a chicken wing. Tetebino Hihibino: "I haven't been around too much, if I'm honest." He rubs the back of his neck somewhat guiltilly, before looking over at Quarcy and giving a wave, "We were just talkin'. You're a bit new, apparently?" You smile at Tetebino Hihibino. Hikari Inamoto: "I've--uhm. I've thought about it. Though katana techniques are more...most styles are based around slashing, and that's not really my--" She pauses. "...Well. Neither is a...a zweihander, I guess. That's why I do...closer range techniques with it all the time." She purses her lips, tilting her head to the side. Finally, she gives a decisive nod. "I think. Learning to use a different kind of blade would be useful. And, uhm. From Doma, too. It would be appropriate." Quarcy Questant: " I am. I'm afraid we haven't met" Cinnabar Prentice shakes her head a third time- this one to rid herself of the paired words that were sinking into her cerebrum. "N-no, not, another... S-Seisyll, then." She nods- looking then to the man's shoulder; a thin smile grown once more. "That is... Very fortunate. Mhm." Jancis Milburga looks between the two and then steps over to... turn off the loveseat. Denz De'bayle laughs at you. Quarcy Questant would reach out his hand after avoiding the backwings of the loveseat. " Quarcy , Quarcy Questant " You smile at Denz De'bayle. Akito Saejima: Mrm... Perhaps a nodachi, instead... Akito Saejima gazes upon Hikari Inamoto in deep reflection. Tetebino Hihibino: "Nope, don't think so either! I'm Tetebino Hihibino. Been around for a little bit, but haven't been....well, around too much. Nice to meet ya Mister Quarcy." He reaches over and gives the elezen's hand a shake. Jancis Milburga: "All right. Ah. I think our room will work best, then? Akito Saejima: Something that takes advantage of your strength. Carina De'bayle moves to stand, carefully scooting off the bench with Aegisan wrapped tightly around her in his soft little blanket. Seemed the baby was dozing now. Killian Waltz: "Is there somewhere I can wash my hands?"

Denz De'bayle: For a medical examination? I could think of no place better. Lest we plan to leave the house.

Denz De'bayle fails to understand you. Seisyll Haerviu: "Another Seisyll? I uh... Hm... I uh... I haven't met one before, in truth. Just uh... I know of one." Jancis Milburga: "Yes, yes there is a place in the other room." Killian Waltz leans over, searching beneath Adelise's hat to press a kiss to her cheek. "I'll be back." Jancis Milburga leads Carina and Killian over, "First door, please." Hikari Inamoto: "...A nodachi..." Hikari hums, closing her eyes. "...Well, we...We need to find Gotou first." Jancis Milburga pulls the curtain open and describes the bath area for Killian to wash up. Killian Waltz steps past with a word of thanks, unwinding the bandages around his hands as he does so. Denz De'bayle steps past everyone, taking off his mittens and tossing them on the counter, beginning to pull of his apron and cooking wear. Carina De'bayle: "I imagine Killian will be doing more touching than I, considering I cannot sense aether. I can provide salves, oils, and medication. Of the natural variety, of course." Jancis Milburga: "I think those will help out. I had an injury from Ala Mhigo that re-opened twice and I think that is the cause." Denz De'bayle: Infection?

Denz De'bayle walks over to the stool, plopping down and knowing he wouldn't be able to aid much in this endeavor. Killian Waltz frowns faintly. "An untended infection would have taken her long before now, I would think. It's been so long since you first mentioned your illness." Jancis Milburga purses her lips, "Possibly. Something foreign that got into the wound and I missed removing." Carina De'bayle: "Goodness, that is not good," Carina 'tsks'. "Hopefully it has not gotten too much more serious. I will not chide you though," she sighs, "you're comfortable with removing your clothes?" Jancis Milburga: "It is too behind me to tend properly. I am sorry." Jancis Milburga drops her head and nods, untying the apron and pulling at the dress obediently. Carina De'bayle: "You should have told me sooner... though I suppose with my current responsibilities..." she peers down toward a sleeping Aegisan. "Forgive me Jancis, for not being able to provide you more assistance." Jancis Milburga: "Not to be sorry for. It is triage. There were other important matters." Denz De'bayle instinctively lowers his gaze at first, only to remember the situation as it was now. She -was- his wife, technically. And the other two were either blind or close enough for such. Snaking his head to dismiss the pointlessly elaborate thoughts. Carina De'bayle: "Have a seat, I can offer Killian a visual inspection before he checks you further." Killian Waltz: "There was nothing keeping me from being able to examine it..." Killian mumbles. Carina De'bayle: "Killian," Carina remarks out a in happy but stern voice, "let us begin." Carina De'bayle >> What sort of things would Carina see while inspecting Jancis, if anything? Jancis Milburga smiles lightly up at Carina, murmuring a soft 'thank you' before sitting. >> Carina De'bayle: The spot on Jancis' back is real, like a red welt where there's something underneath the skin. Killian Waltz steps forward automatically, falling silent. "What symptoms have you been experiencing?" Carina De'bayle places a careful hand to the flat of Jancis' chest, pressing her forward some to inspect her front, viewing her eyes and face closely before bringing another gloved hand to her back to push her forward slowly, looking down her back. "Ah, there is a mark here. Looks like a welt of the sorts, as though there might be something within the skin. Shrapnel from then, perhaps?" Jancis Milburga: "I had no appetite for food. Even looking at it made me feel ill. It got worse for awhile and has improved, or perhaps I have simply gotten more use to it. Dizzy at times. A headache that is all over. And I have slept late far more than I ever have. At least without reason." Carina De'bayle: "How long have these symptoms persisted?" Jancis Milburga tries to answer Carina, "The wound was cleaned at first in Ala Mhigo then stitches because a couple weapons got me there. But then there were the bandits with the poisons in the Shroud. And then I was sparring with Hikari and she is very strong. I am not sure which time something got inside." Jancis Milburga ponders, "I. Before Starlight... so..." Jancis Milburga: "Over two moons." Killian Waltz: "Nausea, fatigue, headaches...anything else?" Carina De'bayle: "Two moons..." Carina hums, "an infection certainly would not have persisted /that/ long. Aside from feeling ill, have you experienced any frequent vomiting?" Killian Waltz: "I would certainly be able to smell a festering wound in a matter of suns, let alone moons." Carina De'bayle peers over toward the man with a furrow of her brow and a squish of her lips, perhaps slightly digusted by that fact. Jancis Milburga: "I feel tender and sore, but that has subsided." Killian Waltz: "Where?" Jancis Milburga shakes her head at Carina, "No. I have not done so in Turns." Carina De'bayle: "Mm. I see," she turns toward Killian, "I can provide salves to help with the injury on her back, but I will leave you to check on if there is anything wrong with her aetherically."

Jancis Milburga: "My chest and back. Abdomen for awhile, but that happens time to time from my old wound." Carina De'bayle: "Has your wound effected your moon cycles? Do you still have them normally? Or have you not since obtaining it?" Jancis Milburga looks thoughtful. "I have not had one in moons, but that is not uncommon for me." Killian Waltz: "It's not?" Carina De'bayle: "Some women can have irregular cycles. Depends on their hormonal balances," Carina notes out in a matter-of-fact tone. "Or injuries in that particular area can cause for poor fertility. Killian Waltz: "Hm. Have you felt warmer or cooler than usual? Using the washroom regularly? Feeling like your heart is beating quickly?" Jancis Milburga: "No, no. We have been in war and fighting often. I train daily. I had an injury there Turns ago that did not heal well. It does make sense to me." Carina De'bayle: "Constant activity can do that as well." Carina De'bayle: "Or at least make them lighter." Jancis Milburga nods, "Yes. Yes. My heart... soemtimes. There has been much to have my heart beating over of late." Jancis Milburga: "Besides Denz. He says things. He always causes it. And then there was Guillemont and those horrid cultists." Killian Waltz approaches to sit beside Jancis, though he turns his attention to Denz as he asks his next question. "Have you noticed any changes in mood or demeanor?" Denz De'bayle 's eyes followed the conversation silently, eyebrows furrowing in concern of Jancis at how much trauma her body had gone through. She wasn't improperly treating herself, but he heard what sounded like compromises. Carina De'bayle also moves to sit next to Jancis, Aegisan's calm sleeping face in view to provide some comfort. Jancis Milburga smushes her face, seemingly just as puzzled on her face for what she thought she could answer, looking down at softening her eyes and little Aegisan. Denz De'bayle: Myself? I... Not truly. As she said, she's been sleeping in more, and while I'd like to credit that to my negative influence, she has often still been up and about. Denz De'bayle fails to understand Killian Waltz. Jancis Milburga: "You are not a negative influence." Denz De'bayle: We've been so busy with this whole Guillemont business, I haven't had time to scruntize her "mood." Carina De'bayle: "It is true, this situation has been rather upsetting on all account..." she notes, "so it more than likely will not offer much help."

Jancis Milburga nods in agreement. "I have felt upset. Not sure how to not be. That cult." Jancis Milburga: "I heard of them before. An old friend. I have not seen him in Turns. He lost his mother to it. And father. To think Guillemont would vanish as he had." Killian Waltz: "What about bloating or weight gain? You said you've been training every day, so I suppose that wouldn't be immediately noticeable. Heartburn?" Carina De'bayle sighs, "amongst other things..." she shakes her head, "let us not stress about that right now though. This is about your current condition."

Jancis Milburga squeezes her knees. "He was really sweet, too." She quiets and nods, focusing on the questions. "I. Yes? It is the winter time. At least some?" Killian Waltz: "But you've been avoiding food," Killian notes, a slight lilt to his tone to indicate an inquiry.

Jancis Milburga: "I. A little. Nothing too. Too." She struggles to even describe what she finds nausating. "Bread has been easy to eat."

Killian Waltz: "Ginger tea can help. Cold meals or nuts. You should eat a little at a time, but often, more than three times a day. Try keeping some nuts by your bed so you can eat a bit before you get up. That can help. Do you mind if I touch you? My hands are cold."

Jancis Milburga repeats Killian's instructions quietly to herself. "I do not mind, Killian. You can touch me."

Killian Waltz: "I'm going to touch your face first," Killian warns, turning somewhat on the bed so that he's facing Jancis more fully and lifting his hands. As promised, his fingers are quite chilly, and rough to the touch where burns have scarred his fingers and palms.

Jancis Milburga says, "Okay" quietly and stays still, eyes watching Killian's face as she focuses on the hands. "I have earrings. I am sorry." Killian Waltz traces his fingers over Jancis's features, smiling after a moment as he identifies the shape of her face. "There's no need to apologize. You're very pretty, Lady Milburga." Killian Waltz >> (Are there any blemishes on her face?) >> Killian Waltz: There is a decorative scar on her right cheek that feels a lot like Rhalgr's symbol but a little different that was clearly carved there long ago.)) Jancis Milburga smiles under Killian's hands lightly, "Thank you. I feel a bit selfish. I have seen you long before you have seen me." Denz De'bayle clears his throat, an eyebrow raised at Killian's comment. Curious what his frame of reference or judging would be? He remains silently, calmly watching the interaction between the two of them. Killian Waltz: "I'm not sure why that makes you selfish. I think that's usually the case," Killian says with some mild amusement. "I'm going to touch your stomach now and examine you aetherically. Is that alright?" Jancis Milburga nods, still smiling, and then tries to sit up and move her arms to press at the bed by her sides. "Yes." Jancis Milburga: "But if it starts to hurt you. I do not want that." Killian Waltz lowers his hands away from Jancis's face to instead touch her stomach, the motion clinical and professional. His hand is still frigid, although it's warmed some thanks to the transfer from her face. "It won't hurt me. My condition is most problematic when I teleport," he explains as his hand begins to glow with blue-white light. Killian Waltz >> (Anything Killian should sense?) >> Killian Waltz: Is it for her entire torso or just her beign in general?)) >> Denz De'bayle: ♥♥♥ Killian Waltz >> (Some of both; he can usually latently sense weird abnormalities with aether, but he's deliberately checking around her stomach since the major problem seems to be nausea, and to a lesser extent checking the rest of her)

>> Killian Waltz: The unnatural item in her back under the skin is a broken string stitch that got torn when the wound re-opened and left in there once it healed so that would be an abnormality. )) >> Killian Waltz: Part of her womb and one ovary and kidney are missing)) Killian Waltz >> o .o;; anything else?) >> Killian Waltz: And she is about... 12 weeks pregnant) >> Killian Waltz: Sorry. I know this took forever. -_-)) Jancis Milburga: "You have been working so hard lately and there have been enough bad energies around the Vigil. It is hard not to think about how you are doing through it." Denz De'bayle lets out a breath through his nose. "We could use a vacation... If it is not too much to ask for a second one so soon." Jancis Milburga: "I thought eating elsewhere was a small start. Though Denz, that was a lot of work you went through to make it happen." Killian Waltz: "It--I'm alright," Killian murmurs, his easygoing demeanor faltering some in the face of Jancis's words. It's hard to tell if that's because of his distraction with examining her or because of the words themselves. A long pause follows before he speaks again. "If your back pains you, I think I can get what's caught in it out, although that isn't something I would want to do tonight...you...what happened to you?" Killian Waltz: "Uh, begging your pardon, my lady." Carina De'bayle: "I think before a vacation is in order, some mending needs to be done within in the House on a personal level," Carina side-glances toward Denz. "I fear it is not my place as of yet though, to step into."

Denz De'bayle: Perhaps. If we are lucky, 'tis already happening in the other room. Denz De'bayle: I sense no immediate want of violence from Adelise from here. Denz De'bayle gazes upon Carina De'bayle in deep reflection. Killian Waltz 's mouth presses briefly into a line, but he says nothing in response to the conversation between Denz and Carina. Carina De'bayle: "You presume quite a bit, but even then, I am not quite as hopeful as you are." Jancis Milburga looks over Killian's face, watching it for reactions as much as out of habit. "Your hands are cold, but it is not bad." She then realizes after her error. "There was an ambush. A masked arcanist of curious power I. I got impaled and there was no other healer. When I-" Jancis Milburga: "I did what I could when I was conscious." Killian Waltz: "You took out your own organs?" Denz De'bayle 's eyebrows furrow. "What?!" Carina De'bayle can only shrug her shoulders, seemingly not /too/ surprised by this. Jancis Milburga saddens, "I could not save them. They were left behind. I managed to close the wounds. Keep it clean." She looks back over at Denz. "I am sorry." Denz De'bayle blinks. "What organs are you missing, Jancis? Don't you... need all of them?" Killian Waltz: "Lady Milburga...you should...this is...uh, I think this is going to be more complicated than...um, Countess De'bayle," Killian says awkwardly, withdrawing his hands. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Killian Waltz. Carina De'bayle: "I would imagine if she was alive she must be missing a kidney..." Carina raises her brows toward Killian, "hmmm?" Jancis Milburga: "Complicated?" Jancis Milburga actually seems worried about that. "But. But Denz is the complicated one." Denz De'bayle: -What- is complicated, Killian? Killian Waltz: "Yes. A kidney, an ovary, and part of the womb. I don't know how, but...you're pregnant. You've been pregnant for some time." Killian holds a hand out, his index finger and thumb spaced to indicate a size. "Close to your second trimester, I think." Jancis Milburga tries to explain, "I still have a kidney. One is more than enough. I-"

Carina De'bayle: "Oh my," Carina presses a hand to her chest, "that is wonderful news! If not also somewhat troubling. That would explain the two moons..." Carina De'bayle: "Women can give birth with a single ovary though, how fortunate we are to have two. Oh congratulations Denz!" Jancis Milburga watches Killian, still going over his words and looking at his hand quietly. Denz De'bayle listens closely to Killian's words, furrowing his eyebrows. When he dropped that bomb, he was left stunned, eyes widened and glancing slowly back to Jancis. Whatever Carina said didn't appear to register in his mind. Killian Waltz: "You should...uh, you should have a doctor ready to tend to you, Lady Milburga. I think it's likely that you'll have some trouble along the way with your internal damage." Carina De'bayle looks down to Aegisan, "do you hear that my sweet boy, you are to have a cousin!" She beams, eventually turning toward Jancis. "Oh most certainly, but worry not Jancis. I will stop at nothing to ensure you have the smoothest of pregnancies, regardless of your troubles." Jancis Milburga touches her stomach where Killian's fairly cold hand had been. "That is what is complicated. Thaliak's Grace, it seems all so much more simple after being confused why I could not fix this. Was. Was nothing to fix." Killian Waltz smiles a little. "No, there's nothing to fix. And fortunately, you'll see the end of your nausea soon. Even as soon as next week, it can abate." Carina De'bayle: "Quite the miracle, on the contrary." Carina De'bayle: "You had best take it easy from here on out." Jancis Milburga looks over at Carina, finally relaxing her arms back to her front fully. She smiles softly at her, "Yes. Quite the miracle." She looks at the quiet Aegisan a moment. "I will need the help." Jancis Milburga reaches over to Killian's arm, squeezing it. "Thank you." Carina De'bayle: "I will be here to help, as will Aegisan. Perhaps you two might wish to babysit him some nights? Prepare for your own?" Killian Waltz: "If you notice abnormal bleeding or discharge, or cramps that are worse than usual, you should seek someone out immediately," Killian says more seriously by way of response to Jancis. "Don't try to just power through it. Given how long it's taken to be able to find this out for you...it's imperative that you act immediately if you feel like something's off." Jancis Milburga: "I will do that for you regardless, Carina. Children take a village, no?" Carina De'bayle: "Killian speaks true. As do you, my friend. We can both offer one another our help. We are a family, after all," she reached a hand to rest over the womans leg comfortingly. Jancis Milburga starts noting Killian's words more, nodding and repeating the key points. "If something is off." Killian Waltz: "That means not waiting moons to be examined like you did when you just felt nauseated," Killian says pointedly. "Now that there's more than just your health to think about - although I feel like your health should be more important to you than it seems to be." Killian Waltz: "I'll prepare some ginger tea to be sent to you when I go home. It's good to settle the stomach." Denz De'bayle was stuck in his silence, continuing to stare at Jancis at a loss for words. After several minutes of mentally processing the news, he could only speak out calmly. "Could you both leave us?" Jancis Milburga turns back to Carina, trying to keep up with her excitement and Killian's matter-of-fact care. "We. We are. I." She finally looks over at Denz, staying quiet as Killian continues. Carina De'bayle also takes a moment to look over toward Denz, her expression curious. Killian Waltz seems to be done speaking for the moment, although he also seems to have missed Denz's request. Carina De'bayle: "By all means. Killian?" Carina stands to her feet, "we are to leave the couple to themselves for the time being. Call on us if you need anything and worry not as well, we will leave it to you two to announce this to others. That is not our place."

Killian Waltz: "O-oh, uh..." Killian rises to his feet, stretching out his hands as he steps uncertainly forward. "Yes, alright." Denz De'bayle >> Sleep now, finish this later? Denz De'bayle >> Tomorrow? >> Denz De'bayle: Yes please. My hero. Carina De'bayle reaches to take a hold of the mans arm, "think you might escort me out?" She smiles, leading them toward the door. Jancis Milburga: Thank you guys so much for bonus RP tonight.)) Carina De'bayle: ((No problem!)) Jancis Milburga: I still owe you both lots.)) Killian Waltz: ( ^^ ) Carina De'bayle: ((No such thing! You have a great night~))

Denz De'bayle Carina De'bayle Killian Waltz Hikari Inamoto Adelise De'bayle Lawrence Wallace Tetebino Hihibino Astrelle De'bayle Aoki Miyamatsu Guillemont De'bayle Cinnabar Prentice Lucius Guiscareaux Jancis Milburga

Feb 16 2018

[pom-friend]

My half of an art trade with @khmariexii , which started as a simple chibi of her character Adelise and her boy Killian, but it ended up here.

[progeny-of-the-fury]

“And here is where I might leave my adventures to slumber. Perhaps only the gods might ever read of them.”

Welcome to Adelise De’bayles IC-blog! Here you’ll find aesthetic posts relating to her, along with logs in the form of journal entries! Do be mindful of the content posted here, as it is all for the enjoyment of visitors, but more importantly that of the player. If you’re ever interested in RPing with this character ever, feel free to drop me a message and perhaps we can set something up in-game!

[jancisstuff]

De’bayle Delivery - Carina and Aegisan

[jancisstuff]

Finding Guillemont - Breaching the Black Mantle

[jancisstuff]

Losing Guillemont

Amazing screenie and edit by @progeny-of-the-fury

[jancisstuff]

Visiting Carina & the Engagement Dinner

Jancis Milburga trots across the stonework, looking about and calling. "Good eve!" She lifts up her hand, waving as she catches up. "Lord Killian! Sweet Zinnia." She smiles, breath hot and making a cloud at the hasty exhale to catch her breath. Killian Waltz: "I'm really not..." Killian says automatically. Adelise De'bayle: "La-" Adelise nearly bites her tongue off, stopping to clear her throat. It seemed the duo had just arrived themselves, "Jancis," she corrects herself, "are you alright? You seem out of breath?" She squeezes Killian's hand tightly at this remark, narrowing her gaze toward his blind one. Jancis Milburga smiles at Killian, even looking fond at the response, regardless. Jancis Milburga lets the smile fade at the error, tucking her hands together into her sleeves. "I am about the same as before. I was asking about for you both. Someone mentioned hearing you both come this way. They were quite taken by a man with red hair in a striking silver coat with the lady De'bayle so I thought for sure." Jancis Milburga: "Forgive me. I wanted to see how you were both doing here. Are you going to see Carina?" Killian Waltz looks confused by the description until he realizes that Jancis was talking about him. He pats his coat awkwardly with his right hand, occupied by his cane. "Silver?" Adelise De'bayle: "That is thoughtful of you, my Lady," her gaze softens, "we were returning back to the lodgings, though our next step was to check on the Countess. Goodness... I hope we did not make too much of a scene with our arguing..." she brings a hand to her cheek in some embarrassment, turning toward Killian, "ah, yes, your coat is quite lovely. Another of the outfits our Lady purchased for you I imagine?" Jancis Milburga gives Killian a closer look. "Yes. And black. With just a detail of gold. It is nice. You like gilded snow here." Killian Waltz: "Oh...um...thank you. Uh, yes. I was...yes. It's easier to put on than the other one." Adelise De'bayle reaches around to tug at the cloth some, "it looks Eastern in design. The Ishgardians are quite fond of Eastern wares, so I have come to learn. There is a beast on the back, perhaps that is why she was drawn to it," Adelise notes with some light amusement. "It looks good on you," she pats at his back, turning back to Jancis, "are you cold, my Lady? Or hungry? We could prepare you dinner?" Jancis Milburga was clearly cold, red on her ears and where her hands shown. "I thought I might be able to do that for you both. Especially if you are checking on Carina. Did not get a chance to show some celebration for your engagement."

Adelise De'bayle might have had the slightest tints of pink gracing her cheeks from the cold, but her face seemed to redden further at mention of her engagement. "Ah... right... ah," she cleared her throat, suddenly taken in bashfulness. "Y-You remembered..." Killian Waltz: "You want to make us dinner?" Killian asks with some confusion. Jancis Milburga: "Yes. I did. Forgive me I do not have anything more festive. To be honest I am not sure if there are customs for it. They really like dhalmel here." She reaches for her satchel half-tucked under the fancy fluff her tunic bore. "So we can have a bit of a party. Some songs and- would you like that Killian?" Adelise De'bayle smiles somewhat girlishly at this, the blush almost seeming to spread over her face. "I... I had not expected any festivities. In fact... you are probably the first to celebrate it. Though my... father did not seem against the engagement, thankfully," Adelise peers over toward Killian some, "so long as there is no egg or fish in it, I am sure he would enjoy it?" Killian Waltz 's eyes crinkle at the corners with a soft smile. "I like music. I can - uh, yes..." Killian says as Adelise mentions something of his eating habits. "I can be...um, a bit picky with my food..." Jancis Milburga repeats quietly with some confusion, "No egg or fish." She bobs her head once, "I can do that. Worry not, Killian. I do not think it is only your food. I shall tell you what I want to do and you can guide me from there?" Adelise De'bayle: "Not too picky though. Eggs and fish are the two things I know he dislikes. He quite enjoys cooking, he says he likes the complex flavours. He makes me such wonderful dishes, ones I might have never even ever dreamed of." Jancis Milburga smiles at Killian. "I fear it will not be a treat, then, if I do." Killian Waltz 's expression flickers with some confusion in response to Jancis's words. "Eggs, fish, jam, sausage...mostly things that are squishy or messy to eat...and I don't like eating with my fingers. But I'm...not sure I understand what you mean, Lady Milburga." Adelise De'bayle shakes her head, "no, no that is not it all. We both enjoy dishes, I am quite excited to see what you might create... though I am not much of a cook myself..." she laughs lightly, rubbing a hand to the back of her neck. "To eat something made by someone like you Jancis, would be an honour. Love tastes of many different forms." Jancis Milburga: "Very well. Shall give it a try!"

Jancis Milburga laughs, "And if I do not make something you like surely we can make amends for it. Lead on, yes?" Adelise De'bayle nods, "worry not, I am not very picky. The only thing I do not really enjoy is gravy," she says this with some pride. "Right of course," Adelise motions the woman inside, turning to enter the building as well.

(Jancis Milburga) Jancis follows suit, looking about the entryway and lobby. "I slept here once." (Killian Waltz) "Only once?" Killian asks as he follows alongside Adelise. (Adelise De'bayle) Leading the two Hyur inside the lavish interior of the Poitrine d'Halone, the polite Elezen concierge offering them a short bow, Adelise peered over toward Jancis as they began into hallway, "it is quite the lovely place. I have been quite happy here so far and the Countess seems content. The lodgings are very much so like living in a small home. Far different from other inns I have been in, but perhaps that is why it is smaller..." (Jancis Milburga) Jancis bowed back to the concierge, saying  "Good eve" and "Thank you" as they went to nearly everyone they passed. Even some "Lord"s and "Lady"s much to the annoyance and confusion of the staff. "It is truly unique. Forgive me I do not recall much beyond the entrance. It was a bit more utility that night. Extra cots and couches about. Denz paid for the bed. I was asleep nearly immediately. It looks far nicer like this." (Adelise De'bayle) "Oh? That makes sense, the Count saw to it that we were placed in the longer term suits. Perhaps others are not quite so decorated with appliances," she nods, leading them down a hall before reaching a lift. She too offered each of the staff a polite bow of her head, mostly keeping her words to herself. Allowing for the two inside, Adelise registered for it to move, it lurching them up slowly to the second floor of the establishment. "You are planning to stay the night here, yes?" (Jancis Milburga) "It was after the battle on the Arc, so it was just a different night. Not triage, though." She laughs as the lift starts, a short one that is familiar and not surprised, but clearly still marvelled at machinery. "Here with you?" (Adelise De'bayle) "You can stay with us if you wish to?" Adelise smiles lightly, eventually stepping out of the lift once it opened after the short ride. Entering into the hall, the young woman broke right, beginning down toward the end toward two doors. "I am sure the Countess might also enjoy company, we spend nights with her when Armont cannot come and be with her, but a lot of times she wishes to... be alone. I imagine her mood has not been too high, the more uncomfortable she becomes..." Adelise sighs. (Jancis Milburga) "Rhalgr's Sake, that all the papers in this stone city burn it would become a bonfire." Jancis comments at the mention of Armont's duties. "I would like to stay. I have been in the lower level when I have been within the city, it would be nice to stay awhile with Carina. It is not easy. Nothing important is." (Adelise De'bayle) "I think perhaps it is the Matron's way of helping us through it..." Adelise murmurs, eventually tensing and motioning a hand, "I-I mean women as a whole. Pregnancy tends to scare many women, in some sense... the discomfort and pain toward the end makes them forget that fear and helps to strengthen them for the birth. A blessing and a curse, per se. I am sure the Countess will be overjoyed to see you. These past few suns she has seemed especially down." (Killian Waltz) Killian seems content to simply listen as the two women speak. (Jancis Milburga) The conjurer furrows her brow in concern and guilt, "Thaliak, I am far too neglectful. I imagine it can be quite scary. Exciting fear, though. Usually." Her eyes gaze back to Adelise and smiles a bit woefully. "Twelve do what They can. Has she been snappy with Killian?" She looks back and then asks the man himself. "Does she sound agitated when you speak to her?" (Killian Waltz) "Um...I don't...think so...?" Killian replies uncertainly. (Adelise De'bayle) Adelise upturns her brows with a small crease of a smile. "She has been a bit agitated with him, I think Killian is far too concerned with her wellcare to truly notice," she laughs softly. Once reaching the end of the hall, Adelise knocked once, "mm... mother?" She called out quietly, taking the doorknob to open it and lead them inside Carina's room without waiting. (Killian Waltz) Killian frowns a little. "I'm not so concerned to the exclusion of everything else..." he mumbles as Adelise knocks. (Carina De'bayle) As the door is opened, Carina was clearly seen laying over her bed. Although somewhat awkwardly. Back reclined up by multiple pillows, the scarred woman glanced down from her staring toward the ceiling. "Mnn? Adelise... Killian. Good evening," she remarks, little to no enthusiasm in her voice, "how has your tw- oh!" Face immediately brightening some as Jancis comes in with them, Carina shifts up from her position, grimacing painfully as she held a hand to her belly. "Eyyhh..." she whined,- (Carina De'bayle) exhaling some as she instead slowly moved off, Joseph offering her a strained stare from his position beside her on the sheets. "Jancis! You are here," Carina says with a weak smile, "I am so happy to see you..."

(Killian Waltz) Killian immediately steps forward, his frown shifting into a gentle smile. He extends a hand out to offer Carina assistance. "Hello, Countess De'bayle. How are you feeling?" (Carina De'bayle) Reaching to take Killian's hand, her other holding to her engorged stomach, the woman grit her teeth. "Terrible," she says flatly, her answer seemingly being that most days. (Killian Waltz) Killian doesn't seem to mind Carina's tone and easily transitions into his usual questions - inquiries Carina has probably already heard at least a half-dozen times. Despite the personal nature of his words, he keeps a clinical, professional demeanor. "Any bloody show or thin discharge? Loose stool? Faster or more painful contractions?" (Jancis Milburga) "Carina! Yes. I have not gone back south yet." She followed afterwards, not getting in Killian's way to tend to his patient. "Forgive me, I tried to go and check on the manor out west, but the snow was too thick and I simply ended up waiting it out. Denz's coat was not enough, much to my surprise. I thought I would make dinner and have a bit of a celebration. Enjoy ourselves as much as we can. If you are willing to try. Talking and some food. Some fanfare for these two." She motions to Adelise. (Carina De'bayle) Carina seemed to purse her lips, the emotion a mix of sadness and hopefulness. "I would like to eat and talk..." she says pathetically, standing up. From under the nightgown that draped over her larger form, the womans swollen ankles and feet were quiete apparent to anyone who might look their way. "Bl-yes there have been... blood, discharge..." she remarks, seemingly unconcerned by the information being laid before her friend. "The contractions feel more painful as well... well more frequent,- (Carina De'bayle) though I would not say they are minute apart by any means. Just... more than last week..." she sighs, her attention being drawn again. "Fanfare, I would like that. To eat and celebrate. This is a happy time," she says, clearly not too convinced. (Adelise De'bayle) Looking toward her mother, Adelise could not help but frown sadly at the womans state, despite knowing better. "We can all eat dinner together mother, with Jancis as well. And we will save some for father too. I am sure Aegisan must have grown such an appetite from all these dishes you feed him." (Killian Waltz) Killian squeezes Carina's hand, helping her move. "Ahh! Are the contractions eased by changing your position?" he questions. (Jancis Milburga) Jancis watches with interest, listening to the answers and only waiting until afterwards to look about the temporary home. "It is a happy time, despite a stubborn little one. There will be more practice for him later on." She moves about to figure out the kitchen area. "More than last? May I ask how long it has been?" Her question was a bit quieter and directed at Adelise. (Jancis Milburga) "Forgive me. I lost count." (Carina De'bayle) Carina shakes her messy hair some, "I am being troublesome, I came all this way and..." she inhales deeply. "No, no... I am sorry, I am trying to remain in high-spirits. It is just difficult. I am in a lot of... pain," she tenses some, managing to straighten up with a dep breath. "Since the last contraction... I would say it has been about forty minutes? Perhaps a bell or so actually. I have been trying to keep my mind off the pain, I really should be paying attention," she grumbles, looking- (Carina De'bayle) to Killian, "sitting like I was helped. Reclined up. When I walk it feels... like a shock through me." (Killian Waltz) "You're very close, my lady," Killian says with an eager smile. "Bloody show means that you're dilating. Your body is preparing for labor. You're very close!" (Carina De'bayle) "Oh, wonderful..." she remarks dryly, it difficult to tell if she is excited or mostly just exhausted. "I suppose I am to just wait then, until they draw closer... I would like to eat..." she says simply. (Killian Waltz) "Let me help you to a chair here..." Killian murmurs. "Um, where are they again?" (Jancis Milburga) Jancis continues to set up, pulling more things from her satchel before raiding the kitchenette for pots and pans. "I can chop up some carrots quickly for a snack. Eating is a wonderful idea. Then I will cook." (Killian Waltz) "She likes pickles," Killian chirps up. (Carina De'bayle) "I do like pickles..." Carina says with a small smile, "carrots are good too. Aegisan needs more than just pickles..." (Adelise De'bayle) Moving to help lead Killian and Carina into the kitchen area where a small table of four chairs resided, Adelise situated Carina down slowly. "There you are..." she says out toward her mother soothingly, before standing straight to turn toward Jancis, "my-" she stops herself again, "Jancis, would you like help at all? I am not much of a cook... put I could probably use improving..."

(Killian Waltz) As Killian helps to ease Carina into a chair, he also reaches to pull another chair up, kneeling to lift her legs up to rest on the seat. "Here we are, then," he says softly. (Jancis Milburga) Jancis repeats "pickles" and hunts for them immediately, fully confident the trio can find a chair. "Try sitting forward or backwards on the chair. Sometimes it is nice to lean forward and rest upon it if that position gets tiresome." Turning back at Adelise's voice, Jancis smiles slowly and touched. "I would like that very much." (Carina De'bayle) "I am sorry..." Carina says quietly, "I am taking up two chairs. I am sorry..." she droops her head down. "Thank you, Killian," she reaches a hand up slowly to pat at the mans cheek. "You have been so patient with me these past suns..." she sighs, attempting to lean forward as Jancis stated, hoping to find some mild relief. (Adelise De'bayle) "Do not apologize," Adelise practically scolds the woman, "you are not a burden," she insists, turning to enter into the kitchen beside Jancis. "Simply show me to what I might do for you, my Lady. I am at your call." (Killian Waltz) Killian smiles kindly at Carina. "There's no need to apologize, Countess," he says, agreeing with Adelise. "I want to be here. I want to help you." (Jancis Milburga) "I was thinking we could sautee these dhalmel steaks and then make some rice to go with it. If you would help with the chopping. Ah right," She glanced back over and listed all the things she was putting on the counter, "There is garlic and butter, some sherry wine, rice, cheese, onion, and this." She states at the end holding up a chunk of wrinkled black mass like a gem. "A truffle." (Adelise De'bayle) Peering over the item Jancis held with some awe, Adelise smiled widely, "she will love that! Hopefully... her tastes can be a bit all over the place, but I tried such a thing... a truffle in Limsa some time ago. It was fantastic!" Adelise beamed, surprisingly emotional compared to her typically dour persona. "Cutting though, understood. I will get to that immediately. Would you have I put the cut pieces into a bowl?" (Jancis Milburga) "Right into the pan will work. They can cook down a bit first." She set the onion and garlic for Adelise, giving the onion a stern warning to not make her zinnia cry, before fetching the pickles and making some quick sticks out of the carrots to join Killian and Carina. "I am sure he has all he needs, Carina. You are doing well. You can have two chairs." (Carina De'bayle) Carina seems to grow emotional at this, despite hardly anything being said. "R-Right... he needs to sit as well..." she insists to herself. (Killian Waltz) "Would you like me to massage your feet and ankles? My hands are cold. It might feel nice. Or I can get you something to drink, or clean up the room?" (Adelise De'bayle) Moving to set up a cutting board and pull out a knife from one of the drawers holding numerous utensils, Adelise pulled out a sharpened knife as she took hold of the onion and garlic offered to her from Jancis. Setting the onion up first, she worked to peel off its outer layer of dried skin, before slowly beginning to chop away. Perhaps a sniffle or two escaping her. (Jancis Milburga) "That sounds like a nice idea." Jancis encourages, "He has strong hands. Also his coat is quite striking. I heard you picked it out Carina." (Carina De'bayle) "Mmmm... my feet hurt," she grumbles, Joseph having moved down from the bed to sit beside Carina's chair and poke his nose at her. "I actually... I am sorry, I know you just sat me down... I need to use the bathroom," she says out embarrassingly, "oh goodness... I need to clean as well, this place is a mess!" She cried out, seemingly growing more anxious by the second. Turning her head toward Jancis, she squints her eyes a moment in though before looking back to Killian, "oh, you are wearing the (Carina De'bayle) coat. It looks good on you..." she says out wearily, calming down some as she is distracted. (Killian Waltz) Killian eases down some and extends an arm to offer Carina. "That's alright, I can take you to the washroom," he says kindly. "Anything you need, Countess. It's no trouble at all. That's what I'm here for." (Jancis Milburga) Jancis sets down the plate on the nearby table, coming over to aid in shifting the extra foot-chair and offering Carina her arms opposite of Killian. (Carina De'bayle) "He will be here so soon... and I have done hardly any cleaning, nor does he have a crib here yet... oh gods," she whimpers out, slowly wrapping her arms to both Killian and Jancis. "He will be here so soon, then I will not be so troublesome... forgive me," she murmurs, standing up with a grimace. (Killian Waltz) "If you'll help her, Lady Milburga, I can see about cleaning the room some. And I can have the staff appropriate a crib for the baby, Countess De'bayle."

(Adelise De'bayle) Peering from within the kitchen, Adelise's expression tenses, "mother... please do not be so hard on yourself. You are caring a life within you, that is not easy. You are a treasure, not a burden. Truly," the young woman exhales deeply, "I can assist with that as well Killian. Though, I will focus on this food first." (Jancis Milburga) "All right." Jancis hefts and follows along with helpful arms taking some of the weight. "It is a nice kind of troublesome. You are doing all that needs to be done. It is different than Hestia's and that is okay." She keeps her voice soft and gentle. (Carina De'bayle) "It is... it is different," she breathes in and out slowly, managing to walk fine some on her own, though still leaning on Jancis some when certain steps cause more pain than others. Reaching the bathroom, she eventually releases Jancis to waddle inside, "I-I should be okay from here..." she says out in some shame, move to lift her nightgown up and ready herself.

(Killian Waltz) Killian smiles as Jancise leads Carina, then turns off to work slowly and methodically on tidying the room as best as he can. At the bed, he cleans up and swaps out the bedclothes for heavy sheets that seem to be made of a material closer to leather than cloth. He covers this up with a more common sort of sheet; apparently the material underneath is meant as a protector for the mattress. (Jancis Milburga) "Okay from here." Giving her a gentle squeeze she stayed put and waited. "This place is pretty. I like it. I was telling Hestia how I slept here once. Denz got the room for me. It was the day we met. Not in this room. I do not remember which I was so tired after the battle." She continues on with the same story she told the others on their way up. "The lift is fun. It is like the one in Limsa. I use to go up and down on it when no one needed to use it." (Carina De'bayle) Carina sat there with a tired stare, nothing seemingly happening for some long moments as she seemed to struggle. At any glance, the garments that rested around her knees could be notably crimson. "I like this place too..." she finally manages out. "it smells nice. The lift is fun... I feel a bit sick going up and down it now... I try not to leave too much," she says quietly, eventually finishing what short business she had there before attempting to clean herself and fit her clothes back onto- (Carina De'bayle) her round form properly. Turning to wash her scarred hands throughly after flushing, Carina moved back toward Jancis, "did you... back during Starlight... did you ever manage to see a doctor about how you were feeling?" (Jancis Milburga) "Forgive me. I have not. And it has not really improved as I hoped. I do not feel endangered and we are so close to Guillemont that I can manage. Beyond being tired and the soreness, I function well. Lingers far long than any venom or poison I have taken." She reaches out for Carina, "Did you want to keep wearing those smallclothes?" (Killian Waltz) Killian finishes up with his work after some few minutes, a collection of supplies now neatly gathered on the table by the bed, as well as old, weighted sheets acting as rugs over the floor. Apparently he wasn't kidding when he said he thought Carina was close to birth; he seems to be making his preparations now for her labor. Once he's done, he moves back toward the kitchen, pausing as he passes the bathroom. "I'd like to talk a bit more about that with you, Lady Milburga," he says loudly > (Killian Waltz) < enough to be heard. (Jancis Milburga) "About the small clothes?" (Carina De'bayle) "Mm," she considers Jancis' words thoughtfully, about to comment when Killian perked up instead. Smiling faintly, Carina nodded some, "he will be very persistent you know. He cares very deeply," Carina adds, waddling over to Jancis, "they get dirty quickly... it is embarrassing, but I cannot do much to keep them clean. Perhaps I should change, though it will not make a large difference some bells from now..." (Killian Waltz) "Not the smallclothes. Your illness." He passes the bathroom to approach Adelise, wrapping his arms around her waist as she works. (Adelise De'bayle) Having finished cutting both the onions and garlic, adding them to the pan as Jancis directed, Adelise peered over her shoulder toward Killian as she embraces her. "Is she doing alright? She seems so troubled... I fear there is not much I know to say that might help her feel better..." (Jancis Milburga) "You can keep wearing them if you like. They wash and dry quickly. There is no wrong answer, Carina." She held her arms out, giving the woman a hug, a strong squeezing the sides hug, before leading her out into the main area. "As you like, Killian. When we return south. He is, it is a good annoyance to have yes? He bears that burden very well." (Jancis Milburga) "Someone has to be keeping track of all the particulars." (Carina De'bayle) "It is. It can be pestering at times, but... I might not consider my own health without him," she nods toward Jancis, "indeed. I never fault him for his hard-work, even if it tires me at times. I know it is what must be done," Carina returns Jancis' hug with a sincere one of her own, seeming to linger there for some long moments before eventually releasing her. (Killian Waltz) "She's very close to giving birth to your baby brother," Killian murmurs, pressing a kiss to Adelise's ear. "Within a sun or two, perhaps three, but..." He trails off as Jancis speaks. "What burden? How can annoyance be good?" Giving Adelise a gentle pat against her hair, Killian withdraws to turn back toward Carina and Jancis. (Adelise De'bayle) Turning immediately to latch a hold of Killian's arm, Adelise tugged him back toward her. "Being pestered over ones health can be tiring at times, Killian. It is important though, regardless. And your concern is not misplaced." (Killian Waltz) "Wh--aahh--" Killian is latched onto and tugged back toward Adelise. "Uh, did--did you want help with something?" he asks with confusion.

(Jancis Milburga) Jancis nearly melts if she wasn't helping a super pregnant Carina waddle back to her chair. "The burden of care-giving." Her voice was full of the smile she shined over at Killian. "Thaliak knows it is." (Adelise De'bayle) Adelise smiles some, "I think I am alright, they might be returning back to the table though so I had best continue helping with dinner while I can. I imagine she must be tired. Know Killian your work is appreciated," she leans in to press a small kiss to his cheek, turning toward Jancis' other ingredients to simply look them over as she wait for the woman to return. (Carina De'bayle) Getting situated once more, Carina seemed far more pleased after having used the restroom and gotten hugs. Turning her head, she spotted the pickles and carrots with some small spark of glee, "ah!" she chirps out for the first time that night, reaching to take a pickle first and chomp away. (Killian Waltz) "I don't think it's a burden," Killian says as Adelise returns to her work. "I like helping people. And if you're still sick, I'd like to see if we could figure out the reason sooner rather than later. There's no reason we can't go over it some more while we eat. It's been quite some time. You should be over most standard illnesses by now, and if it's something chronic, then waiting could make it more difficult to cure." (Jancis Milburga) Stretching her arm a moment, Jancis quickly returns to the kitchen. "Oh. Well done. And Keeper's grace they are just sweated, yes?" She points to the clear onions melting in the pan. "Now then," she sides up to Adelise and hands her the rice and broth. "All the rice goes in and gets warm. Pour in just a bit of the broth and stir it until the rice soaks it all up. Then again. Then again. And again. A few more agains. Each time until the rice soaks it up it will puff up and get creamy." (Carina De'bayle) "Killian," Carina calls out toward the man, "come here would you?" she says through munching. (Jancis Milburga) Jancis moved over to the other pan, tossing in the mashed garlic and wine, medallions of meat soon rubbed with spices before adding it to the wine brew. Everything was stove top. "You look more worried than usual." (Killian Waltz) Killian quickly steps toward Carina sitting at the table when she calls for him. "I'm here, Countess," he says needlessly. "Are you putting your feet up?" (Adelise De'bayle) Following Jancis' orders as she adds in the rice, following it up with a slow pour of broth, she picked up a wooden spoon to begin shifting through it at a steady pace. "There is just... a lot happening. With Aegisan being born during such a high-tense situation... I want to make this easier for her, but I am not sure I really can," Adelise sighs, watching the rice. (Carina De'bayle) "Ohh, I am not," she says out tiredly, reaching for a carrot as she gingerly raises her legs up to situate them onto the chair. Chomping into the carrot to finish it off, she gestured him closer, as though to whisper to him. (Killian Waltz) "Do you need anything? I decided it would be best to set up your bed in case you go into labor tonight, but I can prepare the bathroom if you'd prefer a water birth." (Carina De'bayle) "Mmm. I am not sure about that. I think I would prefer to be on my bed, I have not looked into water birthing much," she notes, "come here though," she gestures him closer again, trying to get him within ears range. (Killian Waltz) Killian steps a bit closer to Carina, until the distance between them is somewhat awkwardly scant. "Um, alright...?" (Carina De'bayle) Leaning against him some, she presses a hand up to whisper to him. (Jancis Milburga) "It is a lot. It is exhausting." Jancis agrees. "It must be a difficult place to be in as a daughter to take on a more caring role in her stead. Little things and tasks will still add up. And simply do them. If she does not like it, she will say so and you can stop. You taking it easier will help her." She looks over. "That has not changed since we last stood by a stove together." (Killian Waltz) Killian frowns at this. (Jancis Milburga) "It is something mothers innately do." (Adelise De'bayle) "She needs me now more than ever, and I--" Adelise pauses at Jancis' final remark, "you... ah, I often forget that time passed slower for you and many others than it did for me. That seems like so long ago... I could almost not believe you remembered...I remembered..." Adelise says with a forlorn expression. "Things are different now, and perhaps the stakes are a bit higher... but. I have the capacity, to protect what I care about. And that is what I will do." (Jancis Milburga) Jancis furrows her brow, looking thoughtful. "You can be both? How. How long has it been?" (Jancis Milburga) "How old are you?"

(Adelise De'bayle) Peering over toward Jancis, Adelise frowned, "eighteen summers. It has been seventeen turns for me..." she says quietly, watching the rice still as she stirred. "So many memories, were lost to the wind. Time seems to erode on the mind like the crashing of waves. To return to such sorrowful faces at what I had become... I tried desperately to recount those memories." (Killian Waltz) Killian makes an uncertain sound, loud enough for the others to hear. (Carina De'bayle) A somewhat frustrated sigh leave Carina, her offering perhaps a somewhat annoyed stare toward Killian. (Jancis Milburga) Jancis leans in, shaving some slices off the truffle into the rice, following with the cheese as it neared being done. The steaks were barely touched as they cooked, left to sear and rest most of the time, the ladeling of wine over them nearly constant. "It was not sorrow at you directly. Moreso the strings the Spinner could provide. I missed you, too." Her hands go over her tunic a moment, pressing to a pocket. "They were little memories for us to keep, I am not sad you do not recall them." (Jancis Milburga) "Really. It is all right. I cannot recall mine own outside of brief whispers in dreams. Thaliak's true strength is in the feelings left behind when memories fade. To be happy as possible was what we strive to do." (Adelise De'bayle) "All of them, " Adelise corrects. "I cannot recall all of them. Some of them were important to me. Far too important for me to forget. Like when I came to visit you... I do remember... in pieces, but I remember. Crying to you about weakness," Adelise smiles faintly, "I do not intend to cry over it much anymore. I have learned in my time leaving that... to pain over the loss of time, is to miss on the beauty of creating new memories. I wish to do that now. Create new memories." (Killian Waltz) Killian makes another uncertain humming sound, then straightens and turns to pace a small section further into the room toward the bed. (Carina De'bayle) "Killian, perhaps you could help me see to having a crib set up in here?" Carina called out as the man walked away from her. (Jancis Milburga) "Create new memories." Jancis quietly repeats. "I can do that. Oh. Dare say we are doing that right now." She takes the pan off the heat, covering up the meat. "I think that should do it. It looks nice. Takes a lot of attention, but that is what makes it extra special. Now we just need some plates." She starts hunting in more cabinets. (Killian Waltz) "I can't see," Killian mumbles in response to Carina. "I'll go." He turns again to stride past the women and toward the door. (Carina De'bayle) Carina tosses her hands up in some resignation, but says nothing else in regards to this, simply returning to snacking on her pickles and carrots. (Adelise De'bayle) Nodding firmly to this, Adelise moved about the perhaps Elezen built kitchen to help pry open cabinet doors too far out of reach for the smaller woman to pull down some plates and cups. Quickly moving toward the dining table to set it, Adelise returned back into the kitchen to fill each of the cups with water and bring them to the table as well, along with silverware. (Killian Waltz) Killian slips outside without another word, the door closing gently behind him. His cane still rests at the door frame, however, perhaps indicative of an eventual return. (Jancis Milburga) "It is exciting. A nice request. Has the hotel been excited about the news as well? Does the staff come in and check?" (Carina De'bayle) "No, Armont requested that we be left to privacy unless specifically asked. The only time they came and checked up on me was when Killand and Adelise left the city a sun or so ago for an errand," Carina notes, reaching immediately to take her glass of water and drink it down. (Jancis Milburga) Jancis nods, bringing the plates over and leaving one covered by the warm stove for the time being. "Would it be all right if I stayed the night?" (Carina De'bayle) "Yes of course," Carina smiles, "my bed is rather large," she motions toward the Elezen-sized king behind her, practically behemothing her in size. "If you do mind sleeping beside me? I might need to get up a lot to use the washroom..." (Killian Waltz) Quite some time passes before a strange sound comes from the other side of the door. It opens briefly, though no one steps through; instead Killian can be heard struggling with something rather large judging by the sliding, scraping sound along the floor. Killian backs into the room dragging along a simple, fully-built crib of dark wood and piles of soft-looking bedclothes bundled inside.

(Adelise De'bayle) "Oh my..." Adelise moves over to help Killian some, eventually closing the door as she helps lead him to a more open part of the room to situate it. "Ah... we can worry about this more after dinner Killian. Shall we enjoy the food while it is hot?" Adelise smile lightly to the man, moving back over toward the table to gather up her plate. (Killian Waltz) "'Kay," Killian mumbles rather informally, just loud enough for Adelise to hear. (Jancis Milburga) "I do not mind!" Jancis exclaimed happily. "It will be nice. It is the largest bed I have seen. Even the one Nuarmac kept half in tact was not that large. It'll be nice to be here for it. Take advantage of the waiting." Her head turns, standing back up after sitting down to fetch the covered plate and set it.

(Adelise De'bayle) Sitting herself down contentedly, Adelise allowed for Jancis to serve the plated dish of rice and steak out before them, awaiting Killian to sit before moving to help serve it onto dishes. (Killian Waltz) "I can stand," Killian murmurs as he approaches the table. "So Lady De'bayle can keep her feet up." (Carina De'bayle) "I will have to see to getting more chairs in here... though it will probably not be too much longer," Carina says out, far more cheerily than she was at the beginning of that evening. Looking toward the food with some anticipation, she waited with some strong patience for Adelise to serve them.

Carina De'bayle Killian Waltz Adelise De'bayle Jancis Milburga

January 23 2018

[jancisstuff]

Twelve Days of Snowflake Screenies

Also with ones I stole from tumblr kin: aethersent, andarion, confused adventurer, garlean stalker, elibraddock

[jancisstuff]

Finding Guillemont - Teleporting

[jancisstuff]

De’bayle Debacle - Escorting Carina

The family escorts a very pregnant Carina to Foundation so she can be near Armont and the De’bayle family homeland.

Jancis doesn’t bring a coat and ends up draped in Denz’s.

[jancisstuff]

Meeting with Claire and Verus

“'Tis a busy time for us all, my love. I-”

"I can buy one here mayhaps! Or something like a cake. Pie? Pie is so very nice."

"For me?" "Thank you, my love."

I see. Valentione's Day was a good reminder of the hard doors our family kept closed, as the De'bayles were rather... separated. Certainly not the case now, but I remember a time when celebrating love was only as far as family. I suppose that is still the case now, though."

"That's a rather adorable way of going about it, actually. Well, I'd rather not take that away from you two. If there's anything you require in needs of a goldsmith, whether repair of something or creation of something new, do feel free to come to me. I'll do it free of charge as a gift for you two."

Claire invites Denz and Jancis to sweets and the pair meet Verus, a hired hand that is clearly more.

Hikari Inamoto: "Uhm...Uh. Well, if we're...going to be handling food..." Hikari takes a few steps back, beginning to undo the straps on her vambraces. "Uhm. What are we--what is the cake for? Is it someone's birthday coming up?" Denz De'bayle continues the whisking, eyebrows raising as if he wasn't whisking at all. "Oh? I pray you haven't taken Astrelle and I's punishment to heart... Then again, it might be for the best." He tilts his head in thought, before looking between the three. Aoki Miyamatsu chuckled, "Surely there's something you'd like? Fruit? Berries? Chocolate? Or perhaps you'd like it plain? Or.. Hmm.. What else could you put.. Anything, I guess!" Astrelle De'bayle: "Heavensturn," she replied to Hikari in the shortest explanation she could offer, eyes still trained on Aoki. "Rolanberry might be nice." Denz De'bayle furrows his eyebrows in thought. "You're a vanilla kind of woman, yes Astrelle?" Hikari Inamoto: "...Punish--N...no. I told you that I like to run, remember?" Hikari's response comes with a completely straight face. "It's a good way to..." Hikari Inamoto: "...oh, I like...I like vanilla." Astrelle De'bayle: "Ah- I suppose vanilla is a safe bet as well." Astrelle De'bayle: "Is vanilla alright with you, Aoki? I know not your tastes in the matter. How wild does it stretch?" Aoki Miyamatsu chuckled, "Okay! Hmm..." There was a brief pause, then she seemed light up. As if she was struck by an amazing idea. "How about... We split the cake in four. Each of us gets a quarter of it, and we can put what ever we want on that quarter! That'll be fun, yes?" Aoki Miyamatsu performs an eastern greeting towards Hikari Inamoto. Aoki Miyamatsu DID NOT DO THAT. Hikari Inamoto's eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Aoki Miyamatsu. Denz De'bayle looks down at the bowl. "It's not going to be a particularly big cake, I don't know if four ways will be enough." Hikari Inamoto: "...Can...can you do that? Wouldn't you need...4 pans that all stand up like...big wedges?" Astrelle De'bayle: "We may separate it into halves, perhaps? Each of us partner with another to choose a side?" Aoki Miyamatsu: "Make it a little bigger then!"

Hikari Inamoto: "How do you make it bigger? Do you put yeast in it?"

Hikari Inamoto: "I don't really, uh...don't really bake. So..."

Denz De'bayle tilts his head in thought. "I suppose I could always make two and stack them... I pray one of them is strong enough to be a bottom..." Clearing his throat, he looked to Hikari, then past her to the woman on the stairs. "Oh, Jancis!" He waves a flour-covered hand to her, before looking back to Hikari. "If you want, you can help me with the second cake." Jancis Milburga smiles from the stairs, eyes squinting happily at Denz in his baking state. She raises her hand and waves back. Jancis Milburga: "Good eve!" You smile at Hikari Inamoto. You bow courteously to Aoki Miyamatsu. Hikari Inamoto: "J--Jancis! Hello!" She smiles back, giving a cheerful little wave. "It's, uh. It's good to see you." Hikari Inamoto: "..." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Not quite what I had in mind, but that sounds even better!" She smiled at Denz, then turned to the newly arrived woman. "Hello, Miss!"

Jancis Milburga nods, "It is good to see you, too. You sound like Guillemont as if he is second guessing if it is good or not." You gaze upon Hikari Inamoto in deep reflection. Hikari Inamoto: "Wait, you want me to--with the second cake? I can...uh. Sure! I can do that. Let me just..." Jancis Milburga: "Good eve, Lady. Forgive me watching from the stairs." Astrelle De'bayle offers a polite wave to the woman, a smile flashing across her lips. Her attention returned to Denz. "You seem to have it properly handled, brother." Hikari Inamoto: "H...What do...of, uh...of course it's good. Why wouldn't it be good?" Hikari Inamoto: "...I guess we do...uh. Have a similar...when we talk...hmm..." Hikari Inamoto: "...I n...never noticed that before." Denz De'bayle looked between everyone, before looking to Astrelle. "You mentioned rolanberries to top them with? You can grab some and cut them, or make the icing, or..." He stopped, looking at the mixture he was whisking fervently, before placing it on the table, grabbing a jar of milk and measuring it into the bowl, and carefully pouring it into the bowl while his other hand kept mixing the pasty contents. Jancis Milburga comments, "All that time you spoke about together." She looks over at Denz and smushes her face up, trying to notice if she was talking more like the elezen nowadays. Denz De'bayle is pretty sure he's started talking like Jancis more often. Astrelle De'bayle scowls at the options presented to her. The Baroness' drops her gaze to her side, a hand hovering over it tentatively. "I must needs wash my bandages and cloth, lest my wound become infected. I should tend to that, since it seems this cake shall be tended to quite expertly without me." She turns to Aoki and offers a faint smile. "Would you excuse me? Pray feel free to hang about if you wish." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Your.. wounds?" She tipped her head. "Ah, well.. once the cake is done, I'll let you know, yes?" Denz De'bayle: The wound from the wedding? Denz De'bayle: Killian told me. Hikari Inamoto crinkles her brow in thought. "...M...maybe? I thought I was just--I've always been, uh. Bad at talking. I think." Hikari looks down at herself, then takes the zweihander from off of her back, carefully laying it down on the nearest unoccupied table. She stops short when she overhears. Hikari Inamoto: "...Wound? You got hurt? Astrelle?" Astrelle De'bayle swivels her wrist in a vague motion. "Aye, from the wedding." She turns back to Aoki, lips taut in a feigned grim expression. "Glad am I to have missed mine own." Astrelle De'bayle: "I did, though it has been tended to. Thankfully." Jancis Milburga squeezes her hands awkwardly and looks about. "Keeper forgive me for not being here more often." Denz De'bayle snorts. "It seems even our matrimony is deemed to be filled with conflict and war." He grins at Aoki. "This is why we don't go out much." Jancis Milburga: "Are suppose to be out now." Denz De'bayle: 'Tis a busy time for us all, my love. I- Denz De'bayle blinks, looking at Jancis. "... Oh gods. I forgot." Hikari Inamoto: "...Wh...what kinds of...Armont and Carina's wedding wasn't violent..." Aoki Miyamatsu narrowed her eyes as she tried to piece together how wedding equaled injury, with absolutely no success. "Well, I'm glad you're okay. Should've told me, though!" She shook her head. Jancis Milburga: "It is all right. I will tell them."

Denz De'bayle looks down at himself, then back to Jancis, before pushing the bowl away. "No, no. Allow me a few moments to clean up and we may still attend." Astrelle De'bayle dips her head apologetically. "I would not wish to further delay our meetings. However! I must tend to this. Pray let me know when the cake has been finished," her eyes drifted to gaze between Jancis and Denz, brow furrowing some, "if it is finished. Hopefully I should not fall asleep whilst bathing as before."

Hikari Inamoto glances between Jancis and Denz, hustling to put the zweihander aside, then starts undoing the straps on her armor. "I can--I can take over for you. If you need to go. Uhm. Or try to. You wanted me to help, anyway." Aoki Miyamatsu: "Will do!" Jancis Milburga drops her shoulders and looks extremely apologetic. "I am sorry to interrupt so terribly."

Astrelle De'bayle raises a hand to quell Jancis. "Fret not. My brother was overzealous in his approach, but... it was a welcome sight to see him in an apron, as opposed to armor." She shot Denz a teasing grin. Jancis Milburga: "He does look very endearing in an apron and flour." Denz De'bayle looks between everyone, before his eyes fell to Hikari. "I can leave you instructions on what to do next." Taking off his apron and revealing his adamantite breastplate, he tosses it back to the bakery assistant before finding a towel to rub his hands with. "Aye, aprons look good on me." He returns the grin with his own.

Jancis Milburga rubs her cheek, "Fetching, truly." Astrelle De'bayle huffs an amused breath, waving a hand loftily at her sibling.

Hikari Inamoto shoves the mess of chain links off over her head, pausing with a cringe as she had to take her time to untangle her hair from it. "A...alright. I'll wash my hands and uh...I'll do my best with it."

Astrelle De'bayle: "Again, you are free to stay if you wish, Aoki. Hikari is a friendly sort. I should imagine her and you to get along. If you've need of me, my room is down the hallway. Fourth door on the left." With that, she offered a gentle bow and finally turned to leave. Aoki Miyamatsu: "Well, I'll at least finish up the cake! And if something comes up, I'll let you know." She gave the woman a polite nod and a bright smile. Astrelle De'bayle was now LEAVING. She moved to ascend the steps, fixing Hikari with a pointed look before turning her head forward, moving up the stairs with a slow, careful gait. Denz De'bayle moves to grab a parchment and quill, leaning into the counter to began scribbling cooking instructions on it haphazardly. Hopefully Hikari was fluent in chicken-scratch, as the knight flew across the room to place the paper next to the cake bowls, grabbing his overcoat and slipping it back on(with magical shoulderpads and all). Jancis Milburga looks up the stairs following Astrelle's bath, still looking at guilty as can be as her gaze comes back. Hikari Inamoto rejoins the cluster of people, watching as Astrelle departed. "Ah--" She glances down at Aoki. "...Do you know how to bake?" Dalmar Ferrera: "Hope your folks don't mind me bein' here.  I ain't exactly Ul'dah nobility." Denz De'bayle moved towards Jancis, eyes catching Astrelle leave, before turning to the two women and nodding his head. "If you need anything, simply call upon me." Aoki Miyamatsu: "I do," she nodded at the woman, then turned to Denz. "Will do. It was nice meeting you," she offered him a bow of her head, "And you too, Miss." Then waved at them both. Adelise De'bayle approaches Gaspard, offering him Summer and Mercy's leads almost immediately. "Could you please see they are cleaned and dried off. They played around in the puddles," she says out to him, "I would not want them getting the floors muddy after all your hard work." The man nods to her, taking the dogs leashes. It hadn't been uncommon practice as of late, for him to care for them when she needed someone to. Turning back to Dalmar, she waved a dismissive hand. "Worry not of that, this way." Jancis Milburga: "I am sure it will be wonderful, Lady Hikari. I am so sorry." She also apologizes to Denz. "Forgive me." Dalmar Ferrera: "Uh, alright.  If y'say so!" Jancis Milburga bows to Aoki, "I would have liked to make more of your acquaintance. Be well." Hikari Inamoto: "Y--you don't have to apologize. We'll, uhm. I'm sure it'll turn out nicely."

Denz De'bayle looks back to Jancis, smiling. "'Tis my fault for forgetting so." He places a hand on her arm carefully, squeezing it. "Should I change?" His free hand swipes at the flour on his coat's front. Aoki Miyamatsu: "I would like that," the smile remained on her lips as she spoke, "Good bye you two." Adelise De'bayle: "Oh. Quite the crowd," Adelise blinks, "you two are leaving?" Dalmar Ferrera: "Looks like it's th'place to be!" Aoki Miyamatsu shifted her attention to Hikari. "Shall we continue then?" Hikari Inamoto perks up at the sound of puppy paws up above. Jancis Milburga shakes her head. "Need not to."

Jancis Milburga: "Yes. Yes I made a promise elsewhere. I am sorry. Denz was baking, too."

Denz De'bayle looks up the stairs towards the younger kin, nodding.

Hikari Inamoto: "Uhm. Right! It's time to bake! Dogs later. Uhm. Let me just...take a look at..." Hikari lightly jogs towards the table where Denz wrote down instructions, her face pales when she sees his notes. Hikari Inamoto: "..." Jancis Milburga: "I am sorry.

Jancis Milburga looks about the house's sign before past the gate. "Lady Claire." She looks at the pair on the bench with soft eyes. "Good eve. Forgive me I am horribly belated."

Claire Nyhmidu looks up from the little black book she had open, scanning over things she had written down the last week about work; her eyes looking over the frames of her glasses, "Oh, Jancis. Where's Denzel?"

Verus Inanis glanced up, offering a small, half smile in a way of greeting to the Hyur before glancing to the elezen beside him, not introducing but listening to the conversation for now for the time being, as it was clear the two were aquainted with one another.

Claire Nyhmidu: (( Oh pffft there he is. Long time no see Denz. ))

Denz De'bayle walks briskly into the yard, breath partially heavy as he stopped next to Jancis. "P-pray forgive my tardiness. I got side-tracked helping mine sister with a cake and then..." His breath runs out, catching and trying to regain it several times and clearing his throat. "I insisted I clean up the flour on my coat. I'm sorry, my lady." He looks down at Jancis. "Forgive me for causing our tardiness." Jancis Milburga blinks at the apology before turning back to Claire and Verus. "Yes. Pray forgive us. And the cake is not even done baking so we could not bring you both a slice for such waiting." Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh? Astrelle was baking?" Claire asked, raising an eyebrow at that, "I never took her as the baking type." Jancis Milburga: "I can buy one here mayhaps! Or something like a cake. Pie? Pie is so very nice." Verus Inanis: "I wouldn't fret about it. I understand how one can get caught up in baking and enjoying it." He laughed, the slight smile turning into a full one. "More than fine, truly." You bow courteously to Verus Inanis. Jancis Milburga: "You are so understanding, Lord." Verus Inanis: "No, not understanding.. I've done the exact same thing. I've been in your shoes many a time." He grinned. Jancis Milburga widens her eyes, "Oh, Builder's Sake. I cannot believe such a joke. You are grinning and I am keen to those. Your feet are far bigger and I am standing all the way over here." Denz De'bayle lets out a breath-y chuckle, looking to Claire. "She's, ah... she's not. She looked like she was fishing for a wrench in a bucket more than whisking." His eyes went to the man, bowing his head once more. "Thank you, my lord. I... I try not to make a habit of being late. Efforts only go so far." He shakes his head, looking up to the building they stood before. "Where is this?" Verus Inanis: "It's an expression, miss." He said with a small shake of his head. "I've been in your position before,  is what it means. Being the one late due to cooking and all." He then glanced to Claire. He'd only been here once and it hadn't been open then, so he was curious as well. Claire Nyhmidu: "I'll have to ask her about that some day soon..." She said with a chuckle, putting the small book away as she held a hand out to the man next to her, "This is Verus. Verus, this is Jancis and Denzel. He goes by Denz, usually. Denzel is Astrelle's brother." Jancis Milburga lets out a small sound of realization before bobbing her head in a nod. "It is nice to meet you Lord Verus." Verus Inanis rose to his feet as he took Claire's hand in his own before nodding to Jancis and then Denz. "The pleasure is mine, and I'm no lord. Verus is more than fine." Jancis Milburga regards Verus a moment, "I will strive to remember." Denz De'bayle 's hand came up to place lightly on Jancis back, guiding them forward to the other pair, closing the distance to look closely at the elezen. "Glad to meet you as well, Verus." He looked sidelong at Claire, giving her a small smile in greeting. Denz De'bayle: ((Good thing I went with armor. Verus' shirt was my next choice. XD)) Claire Nyhmidu: "How has things with the family been?" Claire asked, "Though I suppose that question is best suited to when we've been seated. Shall we?"

Claire Nyhmidu: (( Well, one of us has to go home and change. )) Denz De'bayle gestures a hand to the door. "After you two." Claire Nyhmidu: (( It's not your fault men dont have many choices LOL )) Verus Inanis: ((I could have switched easily then, I was tempted to use my leonhart jacket lol)) Verus Inanis nodded to the pair before following Claire inside. You bury your face in disbelief.

Jancis Milburga thanks Denz and goes through the door, "They do have cake. Not as good as yours, but surely close."

Claire Nyhmidu: "Well at least they're open this time..." Claire said, nodding to the person behind the counter as she looked to the others-- not a moment longer did she start following the employee downstairs, "And Denz bakes? I had no clue." Jancis Milburga: "Oh. It is a date. I got this for you." She looks through her satchel as she follows suit. Jancis Milburga looks about the booth as she sits down. "Like making a hanging garden, yes?" Denz De'bayle blinks in surprise at Jancis' words. "I think that's not being fair to their cake. I wouldn't claim to be the best!" He rubs his cheek in embarrassment, before following the pair down. "You never picked that up, between my fitful episodes regarding bread?" Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at Claire Nyhmidu. Claire Nyhmidu: "Well I do remember you speaking of it, but I hadn't a clue the family actually knew how to bake themselves! Despite however long I lived with the family... I must have spent too much time in my room." She said, looking thoughtful as the menus were set on the table for the four of them. Jancis Milburga holds out some small white flowers to Denz, tied in a bit of white ribbon. They're quite tiny considering she could hide them in her bag. "For you." Jancis Milburga: "Scholar's Sake, Lady Claire. It is one of Denz's favorites. He makes it all himself. And all different types. Different grains and some are soft and fluffy and rise and some are flat and the one he carries with him will survive most anything and still taste good." Verus Inanis picked up one menu, looking through it with a thoughtful expression on his face. He stared at the different items offered, considering the menu and what might be different from what he's had before.. or if he could cook it himself based on the descriptions they gave, as that'd be a cheaper option. Denz De'bayle turned back to Jancis. "For me?" He chuckled, carefully picking them up in the thin cloth of his gloves, eyeing them over carefully. "Thank you, my love." He moves the flowers down to place on the table, pausing, moving them to his pouch, paused again, before placing them in his hair and turning back to Claire. "Indeed. 'Twas always a dream of mine to own a bakery. The one we've in the basement of our house now... works, for now." Denz De'bayle: ((Ignoring the blue for white. ;>.>)) Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh do you? Hm, I must have left before it was finished. I remember some sort of construction going on... I had been considering dropping by, but I wasn't terribly sure." Denz De'bayle tilts his head sympathetically. "You did not leave under poor circumstances, Claire. I can't imagine why you'd hesitate." He looks to Verus, a small grin on his face. "I doubt you met him on a battlefield though, yes?" Jancis Milburga smiles at the start contrast of white on Denz's raven hair. She doesn't make a move for the menu, instead quoting fondly, “All sorrows are less with bread. ” Claire Nyhmidu: "Yes I know, but... mm." She paused, looking to Verus, letting him speak for this one. Verus Inanis: "Hm?" He looked up from the menu. "No, I actually was out of work when we met." He chuckled awkwardly. "War, battle, and protecting important persons is work, but the free company I had worked with at the time had been going through a rather long lull in offers for jobs, so I was without any source of pay back then. It was happy coincidences that led us to meet, and fortune I probably don't deserve to have." Jancis Milburga: "You are a thief?" Claire Nyhmidu chuckles, "No, he's not. At least I would hope not." Verus Inanis: "Mercenary, sword for hire, sellsword. Nothing else. I don't steal, I don't act like a common crook. If I fight, it's for coin, but I choose whose coin I take." Jancis Milburga smiles lightly, "Then clearly Nymeia thinks differently of all you have now. May you come to deserve your fortune in your eyes." Jancis Milburga: "I still strive to do that for mine own." Claire Nyhmidu: "You have a job as security now, so it's not like you have to worry much about that anymore."

Denz De'bayle sets his mouth, trying subtly to pin his accent, before shrugging his arms. "Mercenary work is never in short need in Eorzea. Sometimes the jobs and work we do in the House feels similarly." He looked at Jancis, placing his hand over her's silently, squeezing the hand. Verus Inanis: "This is true.. And so far it's left me a lot of time to work on my own recipes and maintenance." He nodded in agreement before turning to Jancis. "May you as well, and may you gain further." He said with a small nod. "And it's unfortunate that it is always needed, but it assures those without any other skills like myself have a place and a way to eat without stooping to criminal activities." He said as he turned to Denz. "I prefer it when I don't need to be hired, personally." Verus Inanis: "But that causes issues in itself. For me, at least." He laughed. Claire Nyhmidu takes a moment to pick up one of the menus, adjusting her glasses to sit higher on the bridge of her nose before looking at it properly. You smile at Verus Inanis. Jancis Milburga: "Then you work for Lady Claire?" Denz De'bayle nods his head. "Though a peaceful world is a noble goal, there are some things that can't be controlled." He picks up one of the menus he neglected until now, scanning over it with a grin. "Like a rampaging morbol." Jancis Milburga looks over the table, hand squeezing back her thumb finding knuckle to graze over, "He fought a morbol? They are vicious. Did you save any of it? Their venom are actually quite useful despite how. How." She seems lost for the word. Jancis Milburga: "How mortally potent they are in their raw form." Verus Inanis: "I do." He nodded. "I'm security for her, now. And that is true, but those occasions, well.. If they happened frequently enough, we wouldn't ever be for want of combat and work. But in comparison to the volume of those of us with little else but a blade and spirit, the occasions are not frequent enough to provide steady work for all who focus on combat." Claire Nyhmidu glances up at Verus a moment, looking back to the menu after, "Well, he technically works for the little company a business associate and i run. Though it's more my business associate's than mine." Denz De'bayle frowned with some thought. "To be alongside those you contracted for protection... Is that wise? Any complications to being with the one you hired?" He was lost in thought, before bringing the menu back up to continue looking. Jancis Milburga: "Technically? As you say. Have you been well, then? And safe? You look happy and well." Jancis looks at the two more closely for wounds or discomfort to be sure she wasn't talking out of turn. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. Claire Nyhmidu: "My business associate seems to have no issue with it. Nor are we up and running yet, so I've not really seen any issues... mm." She frowned faintly, "I certainly hope it won't become an issue anyway..." Claire looked fine when it came to anything visible wound wise. She had fading bruises, but they weren't visible. Verus Inanis 's only visible wound is the old scar across his cheek. He shrugged at Denz before picking his menu back up as well. "It's not something the inexperienced can do with ease, but.. if one can properly temper their emotions and know when to quiet them to ensure safety of their important person, it shouldn't prove a threat to that person. In fact, it helps as it ensures that we are close and can tell quickly when something is wrong with each other." His free hand reached over to Claire's, to + Verus Inanis + rest atop her own as he held the menu with one hand. Jancis Milburga relaxed that her words were true, looking back up at Denz. "I never did hire you for all the aid you gave me when we met. Does that make it less complicated?" Claire Nyhmidu: "He has been re-training me how to use a blade, but so far it has just been hand to hand combat." Claire said with a chuckle, "Thankfully he keeps away from my face or I'm sure that gaze you gave me would have been a lot more than just a gaze, Jancis. Rest assured, I'm fine." Denz De'bayle raised an eyebrow towards Jancis, an epitomous grin look towards her. "Would you call such less complicated?" He turned back to the man, nodding. "A... relatable situation, aye. Save the fact I am not paid." Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at you. Denz De'bayle fails to understand Verus Inanis.

Jancis Milburga blinks and looks back to Claire, smiling bashfully. "Very glad for that. Though your hands are equally important. You clearly take care of them to wear such lovely feathers on your dress by them." Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. Jancis Milburga cannot help smiling and laughing a bit at Denz's statement. Verus Inanis: "Mostly it's been grappling, at least on my end, since I don't want to injure." He chuckled and nodded at the two across the table. "And we're doing so. To wield a blade, strength and endurance must be built up first, so we're taking it one step at a time." Claire Nyhmidu: "Of course. If I had any injury to my hands I wouldn't be able to work." She said with a sigh, "That and I still can't seem to actually pick a blade up yet... damned war." She muttered after, hiding her face behind the menu once more as her fingers wrapped around the hand of his atop hers. Denz De'bayle lets out a breath, nodding his head. "Aye, sir Verus. Did Claire ever mention her tour of service in Ala Mhigo?"

Jancis Milburga looked between all three, still not touching the menu. "You are the Aspiring. Althyk will give you all the time you need. When it is important, you surely will again. And I am sure it will be sooner than that." Claire Nyhmidu 's body stiffens at that, taking in a deep breath before sighing, "I officially gave up the title and medal. I am just Claire." Jancis Milburga: "I do not understand. You are Claire." Claire Nyhmidu: "I mean.. I don't have a title attached to my name. I'm not the aspiring. I'm Claire." Verus Inanis nodded. "She has spoken of it, and of what has happened." He nodded. "I've not heard all details, I'm sure, but I don't need to know more than what she is comfortable telling me, as she's been through much." Denz De'bayle looks sidelong at Jancis. "I shall have to rectify the annals." He looked back Claire. "I understand it being a touchy subject. My apologies, I should've known since you left the House." Jancis Milburga looks thoughtful, “What is in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” "Forgive me, cannot lessen what your name holds." Claire Nyhmidu: "Just... know it's not an official thing anymore, I suppose." She said with a faint frown, the same employee from earlier arriving at the table to see if they were ready to order. Claire Nyhmidu: "And ah... it's fine, Denz. I... mm. Am also sorry for how I had acted when I spoke to you in Armont's office that one day in regards to what happened on the first part of the campaign. I lost my temper a little." Jancis Milburga: "As you like. To whomever is official." She waits for everyone else to order, first, looking around curiously.

Denz De'bayle 's eyebrows rose in surprise, before lowering alongside a faint smile. "It's alright, my lady. We are not all made for such. Ishgardians..." He tilted his head in an unsaid sentence, looking to the worker. He narrowed his eyes curiously. "Ah, I'll take 3 Dalamud Dangos, and water." He looked at Jancis. "Tea, of any kind?"

Claire Nyhmidu glanced to the employee, "Ah... a cup of Silver Needle and the Cake de Chocobo, please." Jancis Milburga: "Thank you I would like some tea. A flower or fruit type mayhaps?" She looks at Denz, then the attendant. "You must know everything here, yes? I trust your judgement."

Verus Inanis checked the menu, before nodding and speaking up. "I'll take water as well, and one Red Moon."

Claire Nyhmidu || The employee nods, noting it all down and excusing herself with the slight bow of her head. Jancis Milburga: "Thank you, Lady!" Jancis Milburga: "Then this business has not started? You have been working on projects in the mean time? It was Starlight and you had commissions perhaps?" Claire Nyhmidu: "But ah... yes. We were all given medals and titles after the war had been over and I had mine written off as no longer existing by the officials who gave it so..." Claire said, shrugging slightly at Verus, "That's all there is to that." Jancis Milburga quiets. Denz De'bayle: Ah, well then. That saves me the effort of doing that then. Denz De'bayle shrugs his arms. "Best way to move on from such, I suppose." Jancis Milburga looks torn about Denz's shrug. Claire Nyhmidu looks to Jancis after, "Oh, yes of course. I still was working on my own things. I just wasn't working under the banner of the business I work for. My Starlight was rather busy... and I already have Valentines orders as well... so early." Denz De'bayle: Halone, should I already be worrying about Valentione's Day? Verus Inanis: "Ah.." He rolled his shoulders before smiling on hearing Claire mention orders already lined up. Jancis Milburga: "That is well thought of, though. Menphina's moon is close. You can talk of one with us?" Claire Nyhmidu: "Perhaps..." Claire said, giving a thoughtful look that lead to no other words to say, for the time. Jancis Milburga raises an eyebrow at Denz. "What is there to worry about?" Denz De'bayle: Decorations, gifts, are we bringing people together for something? What to wear? What to eat? Who's getting these gifts? Denz De'bayle tilts his head. "Though you take care most of these worries, though there are certainly more things I must needs do to help you with such." Jancis Milburga smiles with a bit of awe at Denz, "You make it sound so complicated. I would be very happy to have your help for it. Yes. We should eat and dress in warm colors and ah. I am not sure what kind of gifts. Sweet bread?" Verus Inanis looked between the pair across the table, then to Claire on the mention of dressing in warm colors. "...Is that tradition, to dress in certain colors?" Claire Nyhmidu watches the two for a moment, finally setting the menu aside as she had still been holding onto it. "For the holiday? I don't think so." Claire Nyhmidu: "I haven't celebrated it in the couples sense before. My mother enjoys all holidays, so she'd make sure we have chocolates." Denz De'bayle smiles, before looking back across the table. "Why merely keep the dress code to stuffy balls and uniform gatherings? It can fun, if it's not too complex of a code." He nods his head. "Chocolates are a good touch." Verus Inanis glanced away on the mention of a code for dress, then busied himself staring at the menu. Claire Nyhmidu: "Mm, I see. I mean I do wear almost all the same colour going out usually... if that counts." Claire said, looking thoughtful, "And they're chocolates the head chef would usually make. As children she usually got us to help, but... helping usually just meant making a mess."

Jancis Milburga: "Dare say it sounds like a very tasty mess." Claire Nyhmidu: "I will admit, washing chocolate off of children isn't terribly easy." Claire said with a pause, "I often had to help with cleaning my youngest sisters after that... I was old enough to do as such then." Denz De'bayle: I see. Valentione's Day was a good reminder of the hard doors our family kept closed, as the De'bayles were rather... separated. Certainly not the case now, but I remember a time when celebrating love was only as far as family." He looked back at Jancis. "I suppose that is still the case now, though." Claire Nyhmidu || Coming back with their orders, each person had the respective order placed in front of them; the Peach Blossom tea placed in front of Jancis after her request for a tea of fruit and floral hints. Nodding to the four of them, the employee left as soon as she came, not wanting to disturb conversation. Jancis Milburga looks up at Denz, eyes shining, and smiles softly. "Forgive me for not breaking such tradition." Jancis Milburga fails to thank the lady server, half standing to do so... but she's too slow. Denz De'bayle chuckles, before nodding his thanks to the waiter, looking to Claire. "So, beyond work, is there aught else you have done since last we spoke?" Claire Nyhmidu: "Uh..." She said, picking up the teacup as she got a thoughtful look on her face, "... Work?" She laughed after, "Really, I've worked... and that's about it." Denz De'bayle raises his eyebrows in surprise. "Truly? Even myself and Jancis took some time to move away from the troubles of Eorzea." Denz De'bayle: And we practically breathe these problems every day. Breathe them for others!

Claire Nyhmidu frowns faintly, "We're in the midst of working on a vacation plan... I mean I purchased an apartment in Shirogane thanks to a company there that bought it for me... but it's still just in the process of planning. This trip."

Denz De'bayle: Shirogane... Is that city or the place where everyone was breaking the Eastern frontier? Jancis Milburga: "Pray do not overplan. There is so much there. Denz and I have seen the colorful banners and cliffsides ourselves."

Claire Nyhmidu: "It's the housing district of Kugane, to my recollection." Verus Inanis: "We're getting close to being able to go though, once a few things are covered, we'll be able to take a long trip overseas. I've got a bit of an itenerary ready, and a few places in mind to visit again and show Claire, but only when we are able to take that trip." He responded before digging into the ice cream he had, collapsing part of the dome over it before scooping a small bite of it out with the small pieces, before bringing it to his mouth and taking a bite.

Claire Nyhmidu looks to Jancis afterward, "Is there a lot to see? I do look forward to it then. I'd been wanting to go to the east for... a long time now." Verus Inanis: "There's much, Claire. Even our trip will only scratch the barest surface of what there is there." Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh, mm. I see. I suppose that gives reason to return then." Denz De'bayle: That depends on where you plan to go. Ours took us to the city, to the housing district, and to the mainland itself. We saw ruins and castles, ruined castles, farmsteads and pastures, I even heard tell of the Steppes where the Xaela tribes roam, though we didn't get to see them. Denz De'bayle: ... Probably for the best.

Verus Inanis: "Definitely for the best. Some of them are a violent lot, and you may have been surprised by the sharpened end of a spear as a way of greeting, with how some of the tribes act. But they also are quite skilled in the ways of combat." He chuckled.

Claire Nyhmidu: "Do they not accept people there? While I ah..." She gets a skewed look on her face, "Am still rather uncomfortable with them, the call of their little trade outpost is hard to resist."

Verus Inanis: "The trade outpost is neutral ground, Claire. But they are rather protective of themselves and of their areas, for good reason. For one to steal from the land is to possibly deny them food for their own."

Denz De'bayle: I have heard it is quite a tumultuous land, as much as it is beautiful. We had our own, ah... Au Ra headaches anyhow. Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh, I see. Perhaps... worth skipping for now regardless. I'm supposed to be going on vacation...not working." Jancis Milburga closes her eyes a moment, "He use to be a desperate man who lost a great deal and was misled most of his life. It was better we had such aches and pains." Jancis Milburga: "In a way I am glad for it. A different land without the same trials and burdens here? That would not make sense. They are simply different in little ways."

Denz De'bayle: Aye. We were supposed to be there to explore with a friend, and found ourselves in more than one troubling situation. Fortunately, we only had to draw our weapons against some walking suits of armor... And some thieving kojin, those turtle-like beastmen." Claire Nyhmidu sets her teacup down for now, lifting the parfait and dipping the spoon in, offering the first bite to Verus, "I see. I look forward to seeing those differences... and hopefully not getting into too much trouble. I don't think I could confidently pick up a weapon and I'd rather not have Verus have to do all the work for that..." Jancis Milburga: "And for as much of those, it is good to see all the new answers and wonders that exist. Opens so many ideas and inspirations. And... oh... that we had armor or weapons against those kojin." She flinches at the thought, losing her optimistic words.

Claire Nyhmidu chuckles, "I will be bringing a sketchbook or two. I do hope that doesn't count as work, as you are right Jancis. I'm sure I'll end up with many ideas and inspirations for my work." You smile at Claire Nyhmidu. Claire Nyhmidu: "How have things been with you two, by the by? It has been some time since we last spoke." Denz De'bayle sets his mouth in thought, looking to Jancis. Verus Inanis: "Armor and weapons against the Kojin?" He raised a brow, before shaking his head and returning to eating. "Must've been reds.." He muttered between bites. Jancis Milburga keeps her smile, "I do not regret going. Not at all. I am better for it. We are healing. I still do work in Gyr Abania. A lot of venom and poisons to work with and helping people to rebuild. Really it is much like the work I already do with the Maelstrom for the settling sailors. And Denz." She looks up at his thoughtful expression for a moment, "We have never been closer. I would be remiss to say things are easy right now, but we find moments of happiness." Claire Nyhmidu: "Ah... yes. Astrelle has told me of what's going on at the manor with your brother missing, Denz." Claire said, taking the spoon and digging into the parfait again, "He did seem rather obsessive with his research when we were close. He spent more time at his desk than with myself. But. I'm glad to hear that. I often wonder to myself when you two may end up marrying... with how long I've known you two it has been with you both together. But it was just a mere curiosity. I would never really > Claire Nyhmidu: want to hint someone into doing that. It'd be rude." Jancis Milburga sets down her tea, reaching her hand into her pocket for a moment, her face looking more comforted in the motion.

>> Valeriaux Marquaile: 2:31]Jancis Milburga sets down her tea, reaching her hand into her pocket for a moment, her face looking more comforted in the motion.

Denz De'bayle: We, ah... took a more unorthodox approach to our bonding. 'Tis no secret, though something I feel our family would wish rectified. Denz De'bayle nods to Claire. "But as you said, there are more important issues to attend to then planning an unneeded wedding."

Claire Nyhmidu stops the spoon half way up to her mouth, "Wait, you two are actually officially bonded?"

Jancis Milburga: "Forgive me, there has been no fanfare for it." Claire Nyhmidu chuckles, "It's fine. Congratulations! If I had known I would have gotten or made you two a gift." Jancis Milburga laughs bashfully, "I dare think you are one of the few people happy about it and not upset." Claire Nyhmidu: "I'm not sure why I'd be upset. After knowing you two so long I was rather looking forward to a bonding ceremony some day, to be honest." Verus Inanis glanced at Claire as he downed a few more bites of his dessert, before speaking up to the pair. "Congratulations, you two. I hope for you both to have long lives and happiness together. Don't let anyone other than yourselves decide what is right for you two." Denz De'bayle smiles lightly, bowing his head in humility. "Thank you. There are plans, ideas... but all must be put on hold until everyone is brought back safely." He tilted his head at Claire. "When did you speak with Astrelle last?" Claire Nyhmidu: "Mm, about half a moon ago?" Claire said in thought, "She looked exhausted." Denz De'bayle nods his head. "She has Guillemont's habit of undersleeping, and failing to hide it well." Claire Nyhmidu: "Yes, I did notice that. Where have you looked? He did mention sometime before we seperated that his research was leading him to ah... the warmer part of Ishgard? What was it called... it was where the dragons reside." Claire Nyhmidu: "Or the area anyway." You seem lost in thought. Jancis Milburga: "What little we have been able to trace has taken us the other direction, but that does not mean it might not lead us there." Denz De'bayle blinks. "Warmer parts? I hadn't thought to look in Dravania for such." He clears his throat. "Ah... I fear the subject delves into topics not fit for discussion over a date." Denz De'bayle: Plus, 'tis nothing more than worry and stress on your mind. We'll find him, Claire. You can trust in that. Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh. Hm." She said, the spoon from earlier still hovering instead of finally taking that bite, "Well. I ah. Do hope you find him and in good health. While him and I may no longer speak really, I do hope he's safe." She finally took the bite of parfait, taking a moment to eat it and swallow, "But I'm sure you're right, Denz." Jancis Milburga apologizes, "Right. Date." She shifts closer to the armored elezen regardless of clanking and knee bonking. She looks at his dessert of sweet-glazed dumplings. "That is so much like the little stick treats when we were in the colorful walls of Kugane." >> Denz De'bayle: Jancis references for dating: https://www.wikihow.com/Date-a-Guy ... or not. She probably found something else. Jancis Milburga: "They really like soups there, too. They push carts around with all kinds of food for people working about. I mean I have seen the same here, but never soup. I think that is a wonderful idea." Claire Nyhmidu: "Verus had spent numerous cycles in the east, so he's very knowledgeable. I'm glad we're not going in blind, but I'm sure there was a sense of fun doing that too." Denz De'bayle >> HAH! That first picture has a bit of resemblance to Jancis! >> Denz De'bayle: Oh wow it actually does. Denz De'bayle: One of Jancis' friends was born there, but it was all a learning experience as he left rather young. Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh I see. At least he got a chance to go back to his place of birth. What did he think of it?" Jancis Milburga nods, "It was really touching that he asked us to come with him. I dare think he needed the support as much as wanting to share it. He had a lot of feelings. What he had there is gone. Was nervous to see what war had done to it, but in a way it is like visiting a grave it is calming and gives solace." Denz De'bayle smiles slightly, picking up one of the dango to eat, his mouth closing around one of the balls on the stick to swallow whole.

Jancis Milburga: “Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.” You smile weakly at Claire Nyhmidu. Jancis Milburga glances at Denz. "Are those balls good? Forgive me, what are they called again?" Claire Nyhmidu nods slowly, "Well, it's good that he took away good things from it. I'm sure there was not so good things as well... but it sounds like it went well enough despite the bumps." Claire said, setting her half eaten parfait aside for now to pick the cup of tea back up, "And you're quite correct, Jancis." Jancis Milburga: "I think so. I should check in on him. He is kind of like you. Works with his hands a lot. Bigger, though. He is very skilled at making armor."

Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh! Is it a Lalafell?" Claire asked, looking curious. Jancis Milburga: "Why yes he is." Verus Inanis finished off his dessert, before setting the spoon upon his plate. He nodded at Jancis's words regarding saying farewell. He raised a brow on the mention of the man being a skilled armorer, and then at Claire's response. Claire Nyhmidu: "I've spoken with him before then! I frankly cannot recall his name though... I should really speak business with him again some day. We ended up speaking of my ah... issues with needing corrective lenses and needing to wear a helmet at the same time..."

Claire Nyhmidu: "After what happened in the war." Claire said with an awkward chuckle. Denz De'bayle nods to Jancis, thinking for a moment. "Dalamud Dango. Its sweet. Perhaps I shouldn't have gotten three of them..." He thinks to himself, before shaking his head, eating another. Jancis Milburga offers helpfully, "Sir Chachanji?" She nods. "It did not go badly. Not that time."

Claire Nyhmidu: "Yes! That's it, thank you Jancis."

Jancis Milburga: "His forge has grown well in the Goblet." Claire Nyhmidu: "That's good to hear. I'll have to give him a visit. I'm sure Verus here would be interested in meeting him as well." She said, smiling to the man, "I saw the glance you gave me." Jancis Milburga looks at Denz's plate and picks up the stick, moving the last dango to the end before offering it to Denz with a good humored smile.

Verus Inanis nodded. "I'm quite curious now as to the works he makes, with the discussion had and your mention of how he's adjusted a helmet to account for vision." Claire Nyhmidu: "Well, we spoke of it at least. I'm not sure if he attempted. But that does give me a good reason to visit."

Verus Inanis nodded. "I look forward to meeting him." Denz De'bayle blinked, taking up the last dango to keep eating it, the food having long since sat for too long because of their talking. Claire Nyhmidu nods, looking to the other two, "Is there anything I can make for you two in celebration of your bonding? Rings, perhaps?" Claire Nyhmidu: "If you don't have any, that is." Denz De'bayle swallowed down the food, clearing his throat, but looking to Jancis. Jancis Milburga squints happily, laughing and looking at the stick before setting it down. "This being on a date is fun." Claire Nyhmidu: "I'll take that as a no, then." Jancis Milburga looks over at Claire. "That is very generous. Very much so. Forgive me, Denz had the idea when we were in Kugane. We found a cart. When people come to you for rings, do they have to ask for special ones in particular that you hide behind the counter?"

Claire Nyhmidu: "I tend to make those special ones by order, but I have heard of people doing that, yes." Claire Nyhmidu: "Otherwise, I keep all my stock out in the open." Denz De'bayle finally composes himself from his mad dash of eating, nodding his head. "'Twas a street vendor. I must imagine she kept the nicer rings away from the public lest they be stolen. A hopeful gambit that paid off, asking for wedding bands at such a jeweler." You smile at Denz De'bayle. Claire Nyhmidu smiles, "That's a rather adorable way of going about it, actually. Well, I'd rather not take that away from you two. If there's anything you require in needs of a goldsmith, whether repair of something or creation of something new, do feel free to come to me. I'll do it free of charge as a gift for you two." Jancis Milburga: "Lady Claire that is immensely generous." Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Claire Nyhmidu. Denz De'bayle 's eyebrows rose in surprise. "I... Truly, that is kind of you to offer, Claire." Claire Nyhmidu continues to smile, "You've saved me numerous times, Jancis. It's the absolute least I could do for you." Claire Nyhmidu: "If anything, I wish I could do more. But I know when people aren't comfortable to accepting such things." Jancis Milburga absently rubs her cheek, smiling back. "Thank you. I will not forget it."

Claire Nyhmidu nods, finishing off her tea and setting the cup down.

Jancis Milburga: "Do you both have far to travel this night?" Denz De'bayle >> Knowing Denz and Jancis, they might ask her to make something that could be given to someone as a  gift.)) Claire Nyhmidu: "To either Limsa or Ul'dah, we have no residence or place to stay around here. Though I'm sure we could find an inn if we didn't wish to travel." >> Denz De'bayle: That's a pretty good idea. Sounds like them.)) Denz De'bayle: I would offer board and room at the Dawn Vigil, but sadly all we can offer is a barracks bed. Many of the rooms were remade into training facilities or the infirmary... Denz De'bayle: Though there -is- a bathroom being made... Denz De'bayle seems lost in thought. You sense something amiss with Denz De'bayle. Claire Nyhmidu chuckles, "Good to hear my room is being put to good use. It's quite alright though. I'm not terribly tired so it's up to Verus." Verus Inanis: "The offer is kind and appreciated, but we'll be quite fine. We have plenty of time to head back to Limsa, as it is." He smiled before turning to Claire. "Well, if not tired, we could head back and finish up that training?" He asked with a small grin. "We did cut it a little short earlier." Claire Nyhmidu purses her lips, "Maybe." Denz De'bayle chuckles. "That reminds me, when was the last time we worked on your knightly training?" Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at you. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. Jancis Milburga: "Althyk's Grace! I. Well I have been. Been working on it a bit." Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh, so Jancis is taking up a blade as well?" Jancis Milburga flusters as she struggles to recall the last time, her sad admittance. "Moons." Jancis Milburga: "It is a trade. Denz is to learn the ways of the land and healing aethers and that is what he offered as payment. He even got me armor." Denz De'bayle places a soothing hand on her back. "We've been busy." He admits. Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh? Interesting. I do hope he's a good student." Claire said with a chuckle. Jancis Milburga: "Verily!" Claire Nyhmidu: "Hm, I wonder what I could teach Verus in return for what he's teaching me... I feel like teaching him to get me ores would just be free manual labour..." Denz De'bayle laughs at Claire Nyhmidu. Jancis Milburga answers quickly, "I have never had someone I have taught before be as committed and work as intensely. He is not very good at it, but that will change." Verus Inanis: "It's not like everything's an exchange, Claire. I'm happy to teach what I know without asking for anything in return. You give me much simply by being patient with me and trying your all." Claire Nyhmidu lifts a hand to fidget with the frames of her glasses and how they're positioned on the bridge of her nose, a faint blush gracing her cheeks, "Well still..." Jancis Milburga smiles at the pair across the table unabashed. Denz De'bayle: There is no price on knowledge... Or some other quote about learning Jancis will say. Denz De'bayle grins tauntingly at you. Your eyes grow wide with awe upon seeing Denz De'bayle. You beam at Denz De'bayle. Claire Nyhmidu chuckles, "Well, that's good to know. I also do hope we haven't kept you two too long." Jancis Milburga bows her head, "You said it far better than anything I have read could, love." Jancis Milburga: "After us keeping you? That is a silly thing to hope you have not done, if I can be so bold to say that. We should not tarry too long. There is news to be ready for. Cake to try and see how well it came out." Claire Nyhmidu: "Well, I do hope this news is good and that the cake has turned out. I'll have to ask Astrelle to make me one... though I still find it strange she was the one to make it." Denz De'bayle: A Heavensturn cake she was making with a friend of hers in celebration. Denz De'bayle: That friend also mentioned something related to the lanterns we lit last year.

Claire Nyhmidu: "Oh I see. Well, it's good to hear she had someone over too. I worry for her sometimes..." Claire said, a small frown on her face. "I also insist on paying for this, so worry not for sitting any gil on the table." Denz De'bayle: Are you sure? I bought an excessive amount of food. Denz De'bayle fails to understand Claire Nyhmidu. Claire Nyhmidu: "Perfectly fine." Verus Inanis: "I don't advise arguing. I've tried and lost." He laughed softly. Claire Nyhmidu: "Numerous times." Jancis Milburga looks back and forth, clearly outmatched. Denz De'bayle sighes, rubbing a hand to his tattoo'd forehead. "As you say, my lady." He gets up slowly, stretching out his limbs and looking to Jancis as she left her seat. Claire Nyhmidu: "I do appreciate you two taking some time out to talk. It's been a while. Let's try not to make it that long again." Claire said with a laugh. You bow courteously to Claire Nyhmidu. Denz De'bayle: Indeed. I can't say I'm sorry enough for that. The season has been as harsh as it has been kind. Claire Nyhmidu: "It's understandable, you've more important things on your mind and I'm at as much fault for not visiting." Jancis Milburga: "That I could make such a promise, as well. Regardless of when. I hope you both are happy and safe and you find new things together that ease your heart of the old." Verus Inanis pulled himself out of his seat, rising to his feet with a small nod. "It's been a real pleasure to get to know you both." He said with a small smile before offering Claire his hand to help her up if she wanted. Jancis Milburga smiles up at Verus, "As you, Lo-  ... Verus." Claire Nyhmidu takes the helping hand, standing and moving next to Verus, "Of course. Stay safe you two with wherever your brother may lead you toward." Denz De'bayle: Aye, sir Verus. You as well. Denz De'bayle looks to Claire. "Thank you, my lady. If Astrelle does not do it first, I'll send word to you once all has been remedied." Claire Nyhmidu: "I appreciate it, thank you." Jancis Milburga goes for Denz's hand. "May I walk you home?" Denz De'bayle looks to Jancis with a slightly surprised face. "... Of course, my lady. I do believe we are going in the same direction anyhow." Looking back up at the pair, he waved in a farewell before heading out from the restaurant. Jancis Milburga: "Good night!" Claire Nyhmidu: "Goodnight, you two."

Denz De'bayle Claire Nyhmidu Verus Inanis Jancis Milburga Hikari Inamoto Aoki Miyamatsu Astrelle De'bayle Dalmar Ferrera Adelise De'bayle

Jan 9 2018

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Rhalgr’s Beacon - Betrayal in Ala Mhigo

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De’bayle Debacle - Heavensturn Snow Brawl!

Hikari showed us the finer arts of plummeting people with snowballs.

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Finding Guillemont: The Black Mantle

The family follows a lead out into Gyr Abania, where they witness a voidsent ritual to possess the lost De’bayle brother.

After fighting through waves of apparently impenetrable cultists, the Finger of the Black Mantle escapes with their quarry.

Wounded and disheartened, the group returns to the Dawn Vigil.

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Starlight Get-together

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House De’bayle - The Tension

Aiding House De’bayle seek out a poisonous bandit, the group gets split up after a hard battle and tension in the air.