In the Great Hall of Sewark Keep bedecked with the livery and colours of Katorheim, Carnasse and Beltayne the Great Table was set upon a dais, it was surrounded by no less than eight other tables and set about the walls were smaller minor tables, a group of minstrels played in the eastern corner upon clarsach and flutes. A veritable flock of young servants flitted about getting things ready then forming up aeound the entry as Duke Carnasse and his family made their entrance, Baron Aldred and his retinue watched on.
Duke Carnasse led the way in his dress a grey and black affair of hose, charcoal léine and high boots paird with a brat of dark plaid about the shoulders, his beard was oiled and hair combed back, behind him came Duchess Carnasse a much younger woman not much older than Famh with an emerald and black earasaid with matching plaid with her husbands about her shoulders....her eyes were always moving and her feet moved lightly over the stone, behind her came Carnasses son Michael almost a picture of his father and older by a decade or so than his step-mother, Carnasses three daughters followed the Lady Alisa being one of them....all stood behind their chairs at the High Table.
They were followed by two knights, Sir Moluag of Argyll and Sir Mary of Dunnfirm, both dressed in tabards of Carnasse livery they took up position at the first of the lesser tables.
Baron Aldred was announced by the herald as ' Guest, Most Esteemed and Honoured' and led to the High Table along with Sir Almeric once the two took up position to the right and next right of Duke Carnasse the High Table was seated and the retinue led by Seargeant Ori was allowed in and led to the table occupied by the two household knights.
To the other lesser tables were led various merchant families, two priests ( The Cardinal of St Marys being extremely frail and not often seen in public), Baron Aldreds staff and some minor Carnasse family members. Seated at the outer tables were heads of the household staff, sergeants and chief guardsmen and the like....something not often seen in more southern courts.
As the music played and folks chatted or people watched many eyes were on the retinue....
Music played on mostly mellow almost rustic tunes as servants brought out bowls of boiled water and rose petals for hand washing and other servants distributed silverware and knives and spoons. Pitchers of elderberry wine and flasks of ale were set out and the first course was brought out.
Carvers to the household served the High Table with all the serving, spooning, boning of fish and carving of the foods on the main table done by these skilled professionals, in what seemed a very exacting method and system, and the food was placed on the trencher for the guest to eat.
Food was, as in the south, served in ‘messes’, quantities to be shared between two, three, or four people. Pottage and stew were eaten from bowls with spoons, but slices of roast meat and other dishes were cut with a knife and placed on ‘trenchers’ – thick slices of bread – to be eaten with fingers. The trencher, soaked with meat juices was then eaten, collected for later distribution to the poor, or thrown to the dogs and was replaced when required.
First set out was mustard and brawn, plain pottage, beef, stewed mutton, pheasant, swan, capon, pig, baked venison, custard, leach and Lombard, meat fritters, two spiced pottages, blanche manger and jelly.
Later came the main course of roast venison, kid, fawn and coney, capercaillie, woodcock, partridge, plover, rabbit, goose, larkes, doucettes, painpuff, white leach, amber jelly, cream of almonds, curlew, brewe, snipe, quail, sparrow, martins, perch in jelly, petty peruys, baked quinces, leach dewgarde, sage fritters, white apples with caraway in comfits, wafers and hippocras.
There was a break in feasting then and entertainers, jugglers and others moved amongst the tables as sherry, mulled wine and mead and honeyed fruits were served.
At the high table Carnasse and Aldred were deep in discussion of their arrangement and Almeric found himself slightly trapped with two of the Carnasse daughters opposite and Michael beside him bombarding him with queries about Outremer.
At the lower table the companions were regarded in a friendly manner by the two knights but they did not initiate conversations. On the stones Salt was being taught about banquet etiquette by three older ladies....deerhounds......and a smattering of terriers, sighthounds and others of less certain heritage.
The sight of Cainneach in his new cotun and plaid is all it takes to restore Famh's spirits; and while she isn't quite at the right angle to make out both words he silently whispers, she knows the final word to fly to his lips at the moment he saw her was "...bhreagha!" ("beautiful") (INV in log: 11) For that moment alone she would be willing to amuse a thousand Lady Ailsas. In fact, it gives her the perspective to remember that this really isn't the world either of them belongs or is likely to remain in beyond this mission, and so it doesn't really matter whether Ailsa thinks her amusing or not. She catches his eye as he stoops to pet Salt, and tenderly mouths back, "Mo dhuine eireachdail ... "
At least, for the moment she doesn't care what Lady Ailsa thinks of her. It's a bit of a shock when she finds it is actually one of the Duke's daughters who has been told off to wait upon the crazy changeling girl and her rough-hewn forester lover. But after a moment she recalls the scene in Sewark's kitchen, and finds herself having to stifle a chuckle of relief. With such a father, Famh imagines she is not completely unaccustomed to plain manners and speaking after all, at least in the privacy of her own family circle. She nudges Cainneach as he walks by her in the procession behind Ori and murmurs in his ear, "I think we'll be all right ... ," with a discreet nod at Ailsa standing behind her chair in the row of daughters stretching left from her mother's chair, in the same way his son sat upon the Duke's right. "Somehow I suspect she might have seen rougher."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Once she is seated, Famh neatly washes her hands in the proffered bowl of rosewater. She waits to be given a bowl for the pottage, meantime using her dearg to slice trenchers from the loaf provided. Well aware by now of the importance of behaving with the best manners she is humanly capable of ... if a little uncertain what that may entail ... she chooses the longer blade as being less likely to mangle the loaf for those who come after (Sleight of Hand 20). She offers the first slice to Cainneach before turning to the Beltayn knights with a polite smile. "Would ye like me to slice for the table, Sers?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Almeric dutifully sat at the head table, on the Baron's right, rising when the Duke and his family entered and only sitting once the rest of the head table had done so. Sitting with the adult children of the Duke, he recognised his tactical position at the banquette table, 'holding' the right flank to both observe and amuse the ascending lord and ladies of the Duchy. Almeric is tall, dark and handsome and could be charming too if called upon. The tongue can be just as powerful as the sword in this environment and diplomacy was the order of the day. Almeric would need to dance too!
Washing his hands in the rose water, Almeric uses polite ettiquette when eating. He will use a cloth to protect his brocade from grease and spills, serving Michael's sister opposite from their 'mess' before serving himself small portions, using cutlery where possible. When finger eating is unavoidable, Almeric will clean his hands between each serving and between each remove. He will not drink too much ale, to keep his wits about him, especially as he will need to dance later!
The welcome, food, atmosphere and entertainment were beyond measure, and comparable to any high court Almeric had visited in his life. Anyone of any import in the city was here, and the Duke had spared no expense in this banquette, making the best impression possible on his 'Most Esteemed and Honoured Guest'. Almeric surveyed the room carefully. Looked at Fahm, he sensed her nervousness. He glanced at Ori, raising his goblet in salute to his serjeant. He could see the man was struggling. Everyone needed to push themselves out of their comfort zones in order to grow. His eye moved to Fergus, checking the man's visage for threats. Finally he eyes met Lady Ailsa, raising his goblet and grinning from ear to ear!
"The Lady hath played a joke upon me, bravo!" He never imagined that the Duke's daughter would attend, when he requested a Lady-in-waiting to assist his Sorceress. "Lady Ailsa, it would be a great pleasure if you would do me the honour of a dance later." Beams Almeric in good humour. Almeric was also aware of the piercing eyes of the young Duchess. Michael was Carnasse's only son and it was quite common for nobles to take a young wife to continue their blood line. Almeric did not know the fate of the first Duchess and was not going to ask!
Michael was slightly older than Almeric, and seemed less experienced by the look of him, bred to ascend to his father's role from birth and spared the trials and exploits of younger sons like Almeric. Almeric obliged Michael with his war stories, keeping them short, light and violence free. When chatting, Almeric focussed on the positive cultural differences in Outremer, like silk, spices, art and medicine. The silk in his brocade tunic, and the steel in his sword, were both gained from Crescentium, a wealthy city state build on trade and commerce. Almeric can talk about Crescentium Steel at great length, explaining how it makes the strongest weapons known.
Almeric was thinking of ways to 'seal the deal' for Aldred. Ways to demonstrate the 'hidden' value of the Revenue and impress the Duke beyond measure. Perhaps some awkward problem, an unsolved mystery, or clear and present threat that the Duke is unwilling or unable to tackle at the current time. Almeric will see what Michael knows. It occurs to him that Ailsa may be equally informed, which he may be able to investigate during or after the dancing. Almeric had not yet taken his vows of chastity, which seemed uniquely relevant at the moment.
Blasted woman! Ori fought at almost every stich this apparent seamstress measured him for. He had just fixed the arms of this and now she has puffs and extra cloth, he felt he could put his leg in sleeve now. It was becoming more and more apparent to Ori that he still hadn't shock the effects of sea on him quiet yet. He decided to hide back in his internal shell like on the boat, he wouldn't be able to fake cheery yet but at least he wouldn't be irritable either. He let the lot of them finish preparing him, glaring at any mention of the garb, mostly directed at Cainneach for he brought the woman and garb. Not accustomed to wearing swords it kept hitting everything around him, he decided to leave it behind. But the baggness this new attire gives did give him space for a handaxe strapped on his back underneath. If they weren't worried about him with a sword what harm could an axe be.
Making his way through the hall with Almeric up ahead and the rest behind him, he had to be shown wear to go and still wore his sea worthy scowl on his face. He refused food and drink while at the feast afraid that if was more then his mood he still hadn't shaken from the boat ride. The fish alone was almost enough to make him excuse himself. He couldn't help but keep watching the Duke's young bride, something about her seemed... off? He couldn't quite put his finger on it but the ways her eyes darted around, she look more like a scared creature caught in a trap. That look bothered him, but he know to stay away in his current state. Maybe inquire a bit when he's more like the pre-boatride Ori.
Cainneach is heartened by the compliment and remark from Famh. Safe in the knowledge that she was okay, he could more easily just revel in her beauty. Thatch and Tana seemed to be holding up well enough. Fergus, inscrutable as usual. Almeric was fully in his element, doing aspirationally noble things and ... making eyes at Lady Ailsa, the Duke's daughter?! I guess he really is a shrewd operator. And thank the gods that he hadn't done anything too preposterous in front of her. Right? Sigh. Now Cainneach just had to worry about Ori being peeved at him for the whole clothing situation. He'd done his best, in both acquiring the garb and blade and in finding someone to make quick repairs. The barbarian was clearly displeased with the results, but Ori must realize they're all in the same situation, just trying to get through this evening without any major incident, uncomfortable though they may be.
The procession to their table nearly overwhelms the young forester. The limited exposure to the "civilized" towns and nobility of Albion was nothing compared to this over-the-top assemblage of people and food. Despite their collectively dashing appearance, it was apparent that the retinue was unprepared for the ceremony of dining before a Duke. Washing hands in rosewater? Check. Washing them again before you're done? Well, Almeric did it, so I guess that's right. Famh's carving and serving? To him first?! Best to politely accept, can't make it seem odd. "Oh, how kind my dear, a choice cut to be certain!" Oof, what the hell am I saying? What do these knights think of adventurers anyway? Most townsfolk were either incredibly impressed or outright derisive, but these two were canny and difficult to read. Cainneach tried to keep an eye on the pair, mimicking their actions as closely as possible. That, combined with their lack of questions for the retinue, made for a tense and awkward dinner. This was nearly as exhausting as their forced march some weeks back.
Oh, and so much food! So much food that Cainneach had never seen before. And so rich... Cainneach could barely make it through the first serving. Years of living simply off the land had left him unable to stomach most of the indulgences presented before them. Cainneach took small helpings of each item that he thought he could manage, trying to leave enough room to make it through the endless parade of dishes. He imagined his physical condition was probably starting to align with Ori's, post-boat ride. And the mere thought of how many poor animals had died to create this gluttonous feast was depressing. Between keeping an eye on everyone and continuing to shovel food into his mouth at a slow and steady pace, the forester at least found it mercifully easy to avoid getting into conversations.
Speaking of animals, the only member of the retinue that seemed more comfortable in this circus than Almeric was Salt. The hound was revelling in the opportunity to tangle with the other deerhounds (maybe they're my COUSINS!), doing his best to show off how smart he was, certainly moreso than the ridiculous little terriers (Salt's words, not mine). Cainneach found Salt to be endlessly entertaining and it seemed like the ladies attending to the congregation of canines admired him as well. In spite of the difficult travel, Salt still appeared to be even finer a hound in all aspects than the Duke's (he's such a GOOD BOY!)
As Famh offers Cainneach the thick and crusty slice, she happens to glance over at Lady Alais sitting at her place at the ...
Good heavens,. had she really just called the Duke's daughter by her friend the BARON's daughter's name? ... But of course, now she comes to think, the two names are practically the same. In fact they are exact anagrams when the two last letters are transposed to other locations. The last of her trepidation about Lady Ailsa vanishes; and she promptly registers an internal vow to get to know the Duke's young daughter better as circumstances permit. In fact she is beginning to feel a little sorry for her: the slight wince on her face whenever her father belches a little too loudly is skillfully hidden, but Famh has now had enough chances to observe the two of them to remember similar twitches of the nose, or little 'bones stuck in the throat' on other occasions.
In fact, the Duke's daughter appears to be displaying a whole series of changes in facial expression now, but her eyes are not turned towards her father but Sir ...
Famh's attention suddenly becomes exceedingly busy elsewhere as she quickly realizes how impolitic it would be to continue gazing in that direction any longer. And the possible number of choices for "elsewhere" being limited to one ;-), she has an opportunity to note how moderately Cainneach is dining. The sight brings back a sudden fragment of memory, when one of the "Manuals of Manners" that village gossip said even the boumen's children were raised by down south in Albion, had made its way to her childhood village outside of Brymstone. ... Well, at least a fragment of it had. But that fragment had then been so well chewed over by the village gossips that even she had heard some of it. And she remembered with a sudden declension of high spirits that ladies were supposed to behave modestly and do such things as appear disinterested in the food (OOC; at least, that's the consensus of all the googlesearch I was able to find)
Suddenly, she fears she may have been a little forward in slicing off the trencher for Cainneach; and she promptly registers another internal vow to follow his lead in future. There is still the matter of her remark to the knights, and she turns to them with a small gulp. "Excuse me, Sers, for being so forward. I've ... had a deal on my mind, and I forgot my manners a moment."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Thatch was clearly out of his element at the feast, although he did his best to fit in, watching Fergus, who he considered more traveled and following his lead. He of course had attended some meals with the Dayne household, but only on special feast occasions and never like this. Even then, he was usually relegated to the far corners with the other servants and never to a table this close. He dug into his food with gusto, not afraid to sample some of the more exotic delicacies he was not used to. He was not about to let this opportunity pass him by without taking advantage of it, and while sharing a few choice cuts with Salt and his new friends. While he eats, he takes the measure of the room, looking closely to see what groups were talking with or avoiding others, and looking for threats or anyone acting suspicious. Although he does spare a glance or two at the entertainers and the serving girls.
Seeing the silent expressions on the knights at the table, Thatch tries to start up a conversation with his youthful exuberance and questions. “It was quite the trip up the coast, the wind and waves were brutal for someone unaccustomed to sea voyages. Have you traveled outside the Duke’s holdings? Say, have you ever seen a sea lyon? Interesting creatures. Is it always so cold up here in the north?” Thatch continues on, mostly with a mix of nonsense, trying to draw them into conversation and trying to follow up on any stories and rumors he may have heard from the stables.
At least, for the moment she doesn't care what Lady Ailsa thinks of her. It's a bit of a shock when she finds it is actually one of the Duke's daughters who has been told off to wait upon the crazy changeling girl and her rough-hewn forester lover. But after a moment she recalls the scene in Sewark's kitchen, and finds herself having to stifle a chuckle of relief. With such a father, Famh imagines she is not completely unaccustomed to plain manners and speaking after all, at least in the privacy of her own family circle. She nudges Cainneach as he walks by her in the procession behind Ori and murmurs in his ear, "I think we'll be all right ... ," with a discreet nod at Ailsa standing behind her chair in the row of daughters stretching left from her mother's chair, in the same way his son sat upon the Duke's right. "Somehow I suspect she might have seen rougher."
Once she is seated, Famh neatly washes her hands in the proffered bowl of rosewater. She waits to be given a bowl for the pottage, meantime using her dearg to slice trenchers from the loaf provided. Well aware by now of the importance of behaving with the best manners she is humanly capable of ... if a little uncertain what that may entail ... she chooses the longer blade as being less likely to mangle the loaf for those who come after (Sleight of Hand 11). She offers the first slice to Cainneach before turning to the Beltayn knights with a polite smile. "Would ye like me to slice for the table, Sers?"
The woman knight nods her head with a slight smile while the man keeps a neutral expression and Famh sets to work with enough skill that food is well shared about the table...
Almeric dutifully sat at the head table, on the Baron's right, rising when the Duke and his family entered and only sitting once the rest of the head table had done so. Sitting with the adult children of the Duke, he recognised his tactical position at the banquette table, 'holding' the right flank to both observe and amuse the ascending lord and ladies of the Duchy. Almeric is tall, dark and handsome and could be charming too if called upon. The tongue can be just as powerful as the sword in this environment and diplomacy was the order of the day. Almeric would need to dance too!
Washing his hands in the rose water, Almeric uses polite ettiquette when eating. He will use a cloth to protect his brocade from grease and spills, serving Michael's sister opposite from their 'mess' before serving himself small portions, using cutlery where possible. When finger eating is unavoidable, Almeric will clean his hands between each serving and between each remove. He will not drink too much ale, to keep his wits about him, especially as he will need to dance later!
The welcome, food, atmosphere and entertainment were beyond measure, and comparable to any high court Almeric had visited in his life. Anyone of any import in the city was here, and the Duke had spared no expense in this banquette, making the best impression possible on his 'Most Esteemed and Honoured Guest'. Almeric surveyed the room carefully. Looked at Fahm, he sensed her nervousness. He glanced at Ori, raising his goblet in salute to his serjeant. He could see the man was struggling. Everyone needed to push themselves out of their comfort zones in order to grow. His eye moved to Fergus, checking the man's visage for threats. Finally he eyes met Lady Ailsa, raising his goblet and grinning from ear to ear!
"The Lady hath played a joke upon me, bravo!" He never imagined that the Duke's daughter would attend, when he requested a Lady-in-waiting to assist his Sorceress. "Lady Ailsa, it would be a great pleasure if you would do me the honour of a dance later." Beams Almeric in good humour. Almeric was also aware of the piercing eyes of the young Duchess. Michael was Carnasse's only son and it was quite common for nobles to take a young wife to continue their blood line. Almeric did not know the fate of the first Duchess and was not going to ask!
Michael was slightly older than Almeric, and seemed less experienced by the look of him, bred to ascend to his father's role from birth and spared the trials and exploits of younger sons like Almeric. Almeric obliged Michael with his war stories, keeping them short, light and violence free. When chatting, Almeric focussed on the positive cultural differences in Outremer, like silk, spices, art and medicine. The silk in his brocade tunic, and the steel in his sword, were both gained from Crescentium, a wealthy city state build on trade and commerce. Almeric can talk about Crescentium Steel at great length, explaining how it makes the strongest weapons known.
Almeric was thinking of ways to 'seal the deal' for Aldred. Ways to demonstrate the 'hidden' value of the Revenue and impress the Duke beyond measure. Perhaps some awkward problem, an unsolved mystery, or clear and present threat that the Duke is unwilling or unable to tackle at the current time. Almeric will see what Michael knows. It occurs to him that Ailsa may be equally informed, which he may be able to investigate during or after the dancing. Almeric had not yet taken his vows of chastity, which seemed uniquely relevant at the moment.
= EDITED =
Checking over the retinue all seemed to be conducting themselves well, Fergus was not even trying to conceal a broad smile at the goings on and though both Ori and Thatch looked uncomfortable they seemed to be bearing up under the pressure....and Cainneach and Famh were being Cainneach and Famh, Tana was quiet and reserved and seemed quite withdrawn but that was not unexpected it being probably her first time amongst such a crowd.
His remark about a joke left a slight mark he could tell as Lady Ailsas eyes flicked to her father for the briefest of moments and her lip curled ever so slightly before returning to a warm smile as she declined her head at the offer of a later dance. His observations of the Duchess were matched, he noted, by Ori but Almeric fancied that she seemed to be looking for someone amongst the crowd.
As he spoke Michael was enraptured by his tales of Outremer and hung on his every word, he did mention a couple of things that Almeric picked up on:- cattle raids in the north-western pastures seemed to be a minor ongoing annoyance, the matter of the Cardinals replacement and who Katorheims bishop would send and a curious statement about ' corbies in the docks'.
Duke Carnasse and Baron Aldred seemed to be hitting it off quite well with light talk of hunts, weather and property management currently underway....
Blasted woman! Ori fought at almost every stich this apparent seamstress measured him for. He had just fixed the arms of this and now she has puffs and extra cloth, he felt he could put his leg in sleeve now. It was becoming more and more apparent to Ori that he still hadn't shock the effects of sea on him quiet yet. He decided to hide back in his internal shell like on the boat, he wouldn't be able to fake cheery yet but at least he wouldn't be irritable either. He let the lot of them finish preparing him, glaring at any mention of the garb, mostly directed at Cainneach for he brought the woman and garb. Not accustomed to wearing swords it kept hitting everything around him, he decided to leave it behind. But the baggness this new attire gives did give him space for a handaxe strapped on his back underneath. If they weren't worried about him with a sword what harm could an axe be.
Making his way through the hall with Almeric up ahead and the rest behind him, he had to be shown wear to go and still wore his sea worthy scowl on his face. He refused food and drink while at the feast afraid that if was more then his mood he still hadn't shaken from the boat ride. The fish alone was almost enough to make him excuse himself. He couldn't help but keep watching the Duke's young bride, something about her seemed... off? He couldn't quite put his finger on it but the ways her eyes darted around, she look more like a scared creature caught in a trap. That look bothered him, but he know to stay away in his current state. Maybe inquire a bit when he's more like the pre-boatride Ori.
Later in the meal when honeyed fruits and sweeter delicacies were proferred may have tempted Ori more but as he averted his eyes from the Duchess he took in someone seated at one of the nearby surrounding tables against the walls, she...for it was a she.. was huge. Her shoulders almost as broad as his and dressed in the grey-black of Carnasse, he couldn't make out much as she was seated looking away from him...
Returning his gaze to the Duchess he reached the same conclusion as Almeric.
Cainneach is heartened by the compliment and remark from Famh. Safe in the knowledge that she was okay, he could more easily just revel in her beauty. Thatch and Tana seemed to be holding up well enough. Fergus, inscrutable as usual. Almeric was fully in his element, doing aspirationally noble things and ... making eyes at Lady Ailsa, the Duke's daughter?! I guess he really is a shrewd operator. And thank the gods that he hadn't done anything too preposterous in front of her. Right? Sigh. Now Cainneach just had to worry about Ori being peeved at him for the whole clothing situation. He'd done his best, in both acquiring the garb and blade and in finding someone to make quick repairs. The barbarian was clearly displeased with the results, but Ori must realize they're all in the same situation, just trying to get through this evening without any major incident, uncomfortable though they may be.
The procession to their table nearly overwhelms the young forester. The limited exposure to the "civilized" towns and nobility of Albion was nothing compared to this over-the-top assemblage of people and food. Despite their collectively dashing appearance, it was apparent that the retinue was unprepared for the ceremony of dining before a Duke. Washing hands in rosewater? Check. Washing them again before you're done? Well, Almeric did it, so I guess that's right. Famh's carving and serving? To him first?! Best to politely accept, can't make it seem odd. "Oh, how kind my dear, a choice cut to be certain!" Oof, what the hell am I saying? What do these knights think of adventurers anyway? Most townsfolk were either incredibly impressed or outright derisive, but these two were canny and difficult to read. Cainneach tried to keep an eye on the pair, mimicking their actions as closely as possible. That, combined with their lack of questions for the retinue, made for a tense and awkward dinner. This was nearly as exhausting as their forced march some weeks back.
Oh, and so much food! So much food that Cainneach had never seen before. And so rich... Cainneach could barely make it through the first serving. Years of living simply off the land had left him unable to stomach most of the indulgences presented before them. Cainneach took small helpings of each item that he thought he could manage, trying to leave enough room to make it through the endless parade of dishes. He imagined his physical condition was probably starting to align with Ori's, post-boat ride. And the mere thought of how many poor animals had died to create this gluttonous feast was depressing. Between keeping an eye on everyone and continuing to shovel food into his mouth at a slow and steady pace, the forester at least found it mercifully easy to avoid getting into conversations.
Speaking of animals, the only member of the retinue that seemed more comfortable in this circus than Almeric was Salt. The hound was revelling in the opportunity to tangle with the other deerhounds (maybe they're my COUSINS!), doing his best to show off how smart he was, certainly moreso than the ridiculous little terriers (Salt's words, not mine). Cainneach found Salt to be endlessly entertaining and it seemed like the ladies attending to the congregation of canines admired him as well. In spite of the difficult travel, Salt still appeared to be even finer a hound in all aspects than the Duke's (he's such a GOOD BOY!)
Cainneach was concentrating hard but his keen hearing did pick up some conversations at nearby tables and amongst passing servants:-
- Lord Michael has been seen near The Sands in recent times.
- Lady Margie nearly scared her chambermaid to death appearing out of nowhere as her room was being turned down.
- Two of the irregular guardsmen were beaten near half to death last week when they tried to break up a fight between rival merchant crews.
As Famh offers Cainneach the thick and crusty slice, she happens to glance over at Lady Alais sitting at her place at the ...
Good heavens,. had she really just called the Duke's daughter by her friend the BARON's daughter's name? ... But of course, now she comes to think, the two names are practically the same. In fact they are exact anagrams when the two last letters are transposed to other locations. The last of her trepidation about Lady Ailsa vanishes; and she promptly registers an internal vow to get to know the Duke's young daughter better as circumstances permit. In fact she is beginning to feel a little sorry for her: the slight wince on her face whenever her father belches a little too loudly is skillfully hidden, but Famh has now had enough chances to observe the two of them to remember similar twitches of the nose, or little 'bones stuck in the throat' on other occasions.
In fact, the Duke's daughter appears to be displaying a whole series of changes in facial expression now, but her eyes are not turned towards her father but Sir ...
Famh's attention suddenly becomes exceedingly busy elsewhere as she quickly realizes how impolitic it would be to continue gazing in that direction any longer. And the possible number of choices for "elsewhere" being limited to one ;-), she has an opportunity to note how moderately Cainneach is dining. The sight brings back a sudden fragment of memory, when one of the "Manuals of Manners" that village gossip said even the boumen's children were raised by down south in Albion, had made its way to her childhood village outside of Brymstone. ... Well, at least a fragment of it had. But that fragment had then been so well chewed over by the village gossips that even she had heard some of it. And she remembered with a sudden declension of high spirits that ladies were supposed to behave modestly and do such things as appear disinterested in the food (OOC; at least, that's the consensus of all the googlesearch I was able to find)
Suddenly, she fears she may have been a little forward in slicing off the trencher for Cainneach; and she promptly registers another internal vow to follow his lead in future. There is still the matter of her remark to the knights, and she turns to them with a small gulp. "Excuse me, Sers, for being so forward. I've ... had a deal on my mind, and I forgot my manners a moment."
Sir Mary smiled at Famh, " Nonsense yer doing great, I ken we're all to be speaking Albish in deference to Your Lordship but if you've a fancy to use yer birth tongue I won't complain. My Albish is decent but lughead here", she elbows Sir Moluag forcefully. " Speaks it like he was dropped on his head as a child."
Thatch was clearly out of his element at the feast, although he did his best to fit in, watching Fergus, who he considered more traveled and following his lead. He of course had attended some meals with the Dayne household, but only on special feast occasions and never like this. Even then, he was usually relegated to the far corners with the other servants and never to a table this close. He dug into his food with gusto, not afraid to sample some of the more exotic delicacies he was not used to. He was not about to let this opportunity pass him by without taking advantage of it, and while sharing a few choice cuts with Salt and his new friends. While he eats, he takes the measure of the room, looking closely to see what groups were talking with or avoiding others, and looking for threats or anyone acting suspicious. Although he does spare a glance or two at the entertainers and the serving girls.
Seeing the silent expressions on the knights at the table, Thatch tries to start up a conversation with his youthful exuberance and questions. “It was quite the trip up the coast, the wind and waves were brutal for someone unaccustomed to sea voyages. Have you traveled outside the Duke’s holdings? Say, have you ever seen a sea lyon? Interesting creatures. Is it always so cold up here in the north?” Thatch continues on, mostly with a mix of nonsense, trying to draw them into conversation and trying to follow up on any stories and rumors he may have heard from the stables.
Sir Mary turned from Famh towards Thatch, " Aye, we've travelled a fair way. A tourney near Ongus was the farthest, but Katorheim, Glissom amongst others. A sealion? From a boat and ashore on the rocks from time to time, loud beasties the bulls are in season."
" Cold? Aye, but this winter is pretty mild. last winter we were shovelling snow off the streets on the daily. Katorheims near buried in the stuff at times."
The feast moved on, drink was drank and soon it came time to clear the tables and move them away so dancing and other entertainments could take place.....whilst jugglers and fools capered about the edge of the room the harpists and flautists picked up a highland tune to begin the dancing.....
As the servants arrive to clear tables and move furniture for the evenings entertainment to take place, Almeric excuses himself from Lord Michael and his sisters to move across to the Retinue at the 1st Table. Nodding respectfully to Sirs Mary and Moluag as he approaches, Almeric casually stands beside Fergus. Pretending to adjust his baldrick, he whispers in the Scribe's ear. "Find out about 'Corbies in the docks' , cattle rustlers in the northwest pastures and 'The Sands'. The Duchess is looking to someone here. Find out who is it."
Almeric begins to sway slightly and raising his voice, "I hope you all brought your dancing shoes? Pair off and cut a swathe across the hall everyone!" Almeric winks at Fahm and slaps Cainneach on the back. "There may be some friendly contests later; wrestling and even poetry!" laughs the knight, as he turns back to Mary and Moluag. "You know, I once talked down a band of brigands using poetry! Do you have any 'wrestlers' here? None that could match the Sergeant, I'll be bound!" Almeric grins at Ori and grips his bicep in appreciation. "He is so serious, he scares me sometimes!" Laughing at his own impression of being tipsy to the Duke's knights, Almeric sashay's across the hall Performance (Drunk) = 10.
Returning to the high table, Almeric bows to the Duke and Baron, then stands by Lady Ailsa. Bowing deeply, he holds out his hand to the lady in supplication and invitation to dance. Almeric is intrigued by the Ailsa, maybe attracted too. He had aimed to establish trust with a senior member of the court, maybe gain an ally, but this was something very different and unfamiliar. He does not have Cainneach or Thatch to scout ahead, Ori to hold the right flank, Fergus to guard the rear, Tana to minister to his wounds or Fahm to provide the critical insight. He was alone on this mission, he laughed. He who dares, wins! He thought and threw himself to the task! Let the dancing commence! Performance (Dance) = 15, Persuasion = 18.
As Famh offers Cainneach the thick and crusty slice, she happens to glance over at Lady Alais sitting at her place at the ...
Good heavens,. had she really just called the Duke's daughter by her friend the BARON's daughter's name? ... But of course, now she comes to think, the two names are practically the same. In fact they are exact anagrams when the two last letters are transposed to other locations. The last of her trepidation about Lady Ailsa vanishes; and she promptly registers an internal vow to get to know the Duke's young daughter better as circumstances permit. In fact she is beginning to feel a little sorry for her: the slight wince on her face whenever her father belches a little too loudly is skillfully hidden, but Famh has now had enough chances to observe the two of them to remember similar twitches of the nose, or little 'bones stuck in the throat' on other occasions.
In fact, the Duke's daughter appears to be displaying a whole series of changes in facial expression now, but her eyes are not turned towards her father but Sir ...
Famh's attention suddenly becomes exceedingly busy elsewhere as she quickly realizes how impolitic it would be to continue gazing in that direction any longer. And the possible number of choices for "elsewhere" being limited to one ;-), she has an opportunity to note how moderately Cainneach is dining. The sight brings back a sudden fragment of memory, when one of the "Manuals of Manners" that village gossip said even the boumen's children were raised by down south in Albion, had made its way to her childhood village outside of Brymstone. ... Well, at least a fragment of it had. But that fragment had then been so well chewed over by the village gossips that even she had heard some of it. And she remembered with a sudden declension of high spirits that ladies were supposed to behave modestly and do such things as appear disinterested in the food (OOC; at least, that's the consensus of all the googlesearch I was able to find)
Suddenly, she fears she may have been a little forward in slicing off the trencher for Cainneach; and she promptly registers another internal vow to follow his lead in future. There is still the matter of her remark to the knights, and she turns to them with a small gulp. "Excuse me, Sers, for being so forward. I've ... had a deal on my mind, and I forgot my manners a moment."
Sir Mary smiled at Famh, " Nonsense yer doing great, I ken we're all to be speaking Albish in deference to Your Lordship but if you've a fancy to use yer birth tongue I won't complain. My Albish is decent but lughead here", she elbows Sir Moluag forcefully. " Speaks it like he was dropped on his head as a child."
" Fran the south then, fram yer accent."
Famh puffs out her cheeks with a little *whoof* of relief and grins at Sir Mary. "Aye, frae Laird Erek's lands jist sooth o' here. And this braw laddie is a brae lad fra inland. He's quite the forester, but he's foond himself new-keppit (caught) but a little agone. I trust he finds the experience refreshin' fer a change." She blushes in Cainneach's direction a moment and then laughs. "He's a wee bit shy-like, but I'm not at all, it seems, so it's a greet relief not to ha' to play the lady mair." She casts a curious eye at Lady Ailsa once more, then sighs. "And I was but playing. I hae nae way of kenning the burthen o't."
The feast moved on, drink was drank and soon it came time to clear the tables and move them away so dancing and other entertainments could take place.....whilst jugglers and fools capered about the edge of the room the harpists and flautists picked up a highland tune to begin the dancing.....
*EDITED*
Her sharp faerie ears pricking up as she hears whispering (PER in log: 18), Famh manages to pick up most of what Sir Almeric asked his scribe. She plucks at his sleeve as he turns away and lowers her own voice to a matching whisper. "I overheard what ye asked of Fergus, Sir. I dinna ken the most of it, but a "corbie"'s naught ... or less... than a Thulish hoodie-crow. A raven."
"But a raven's the form the Morrigu loves to take in the old stories. The Old Thulish goddess of war."
+++@@@+++
As the music for dancing begins, Famh's eyes fly to Cainneach and she smiles shyly. "We've neither of us had much practice, dearest, but I think we'd both regret it forever if we didn't at least try. And I've just remembered a little ... juggler's trick I saw at a country play (fair) along the way. I'd like to ask Sir Almeric if he thinks the Duke would appreciate an offer to contribute to the entertainment. And I think ... I'm sure I don't know why I say this but I somehow THINK ... that Sir Almeric will shortly be to be found on the dance floor." She gives an odd look to the retinue's wayward knight, half concerned, half amused and ... Cainneach would almost be willing to swear to Morkaan ... half secretly cheering the Capellar on with the curious, delighted and mischievous gleam of Aengus, the Old Faith's god of love, twinkling merrily in her eye. With that look only brightening as she refocuses her attention back to him, she carefully pushes out her chair and holds out her hand invitingly. "Shall we?"
===========================
(for the "curious" part of the 'Aengus-look' ...)
Perception16
Insight4
(for the dancing, should Cainneach be amenable ...)
Thatch slowly became more comfortable during the feast, thanks in large part to the conversation with the knights and his companions at the table. As the music picked up, Thatch loosened up and moved to pair up with dance partners, focusing on young ladies from the tables holding minor Carnesse family members and the merchant families. As he laughed, danced and told stories, he listened sharply and dropped some questions around the Sands and Corbies in light of Almeric’s orders that Fergus had quietly shared with them, all while listening for other rumors or stories as well.
Spirits high, Thatch was even bold enough to steal a dance with Famh away from Cainneach as he rotated between dance partners. But just one. “Famh, was your home close to here? Is this what the rest of the country is like?”
A sly look crosses Famh's face. "Nay, my home wasna. And I don't remember it being what the rest of the country is like." She grins and winks mischievously at Thatch. "Was there aught else ye wanted to ask me, ere Cainneach murders ye in a duel? Or do you think that will be enough information for our Capellar?" She clucks her tongue. "Sic' a pity too. A young lad like ye must ha' at least ane starry-eyed milkmaid waiting ye wi' bated breath at the Dayne manor, now. 'Twould be tragic if ye didn't make it back to her safe and whole ..."" Allowing just enough time for the full implications of that last innuendo to sink in, she caps the whole with a merry laugh.
Then, catching her breath, "Seriously, though, if you get the chance to talk with Sir Almeric ere I do, ask if he thinks Their Lordships would appreciate a little juggling trick I've just recalled, as our contribution to the evening's entertainment. Or perhaps you or Fergus have picked up something along the way that would suit better?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Even with his attention being held elsewhere, Cainneach's keen ears pick up a few useful snippets that he'll make sure to relay to Almeric. Once the usually calculating Capellar had ceased his gallivanting on the dance floor, that is. As for Cainneach, he had consumed a glass of mead and his head was now feeling a bit warm and fuzzy. Nothing too debilitating, but it was rare that the forester consumed alcohol, and he was finally able to relax a bit. Listening to the knights and Famh carry on in Visic was interesting. Cainneach could understand the conversation, but certain terms and phrases were unfamiliar to him. He mostly remained quiet, nodding when appropriate, answering questions about his background when asked, and paying close attention throughout.
When it comes time to dance, he winces in anticipation of what Lady Ailsa and the others of the court might think of his and Famh's attempt to replicate the elaborate movements taking place on the dance floor. His best hope was that it would be crowded enough that no one could take much notice of them. Maybe a tune might be played that would resemble a reel from his home, but even still, any dancing he had done had been years ago and with the abandon of youth, not with the self-consciousness of young adulthood. But, he can see no way to politely decline his beloved's invitation to dance, and besides, he might have an opportunity to steal a kiss while she was in his arms. Discreetly, of course! He nods, smiles, and takes her hand, leading her to the dance floor. He will, however, be happy to allow her to lead if she seems to know the style any more than he.
When Thatch comes through the line and moves to take a round with Famh on the dance floor, Cainneach thinks there is no one he could trust more. And plus, it gives him a chance to relax for a moment and take in his surroundings. He looks for any unusual pairings and to see how the rest of the retinue is faring.
Famh lets out a little startled squeak when Cainneach turns his head suddenly and kisses her in the midst of trying to guide him with little pressures of her arms while making it look like he was the one leading. Then she grins. "We can work out the fine points later. So you kiss me with that same fire always, I'd not care if your two feet were made o' stone But they're not, it's just, you're so strong, that ... mmmmm ... " She gets lost in his eyes and forgets what she was saying, before trying to steal a kiss of her own. She is, however, just a little less fervent about hiding it. In fact, she seems a little conflicted about that ...
=========
Stealth (disadv.) 7
(typo edit, bc. I think Cainneach would prefer to not even appear to be the one leaVing at this point in the timeline LOL)
Tana takes her leisure and keeps Fergus company while the others dance and wheel about, they both manage to collect a fair degree of information for Sir Almeric as instructed through casual conversation and listening in to others.
( Once we get a post from Ori I'll round up the entertainment portion of the evening with responses to everyone.)
Ori finds his unenthusiastic mood to stay through the evens events. As tempting as the food looks and smells, Ori dare not eat it for he didn't know if he coukd keep it in, but he held his cup like he was drinking it and tried sneaking a few pieces of grub he though could survive his pockets to try in their rooms later. He tried to keep rhythm with his foot under the table but found he just couldn't get the feeling tonight. What a night for an off night. He would have had a blast making his way through the crowds and spinning about. He wasn't a bad dancer, not particularly good either, but good enough his personality could make up the rest. He must have been off his game, nobody even attempted to ask him to dance, well he was still at the table, and his scowl wasn't doing him any favors. So he made his way to a pillar he could lean against and hold on to his cup. Watching the others dance and mingling felt right. They were having fun and living life, even Thatch is getting a bit more confidence around the high and mighties. He found he kept the coin from Almeric in his hand, fidgeting with it constantly as the night went on. Ori kept quiet and mostly to himself, making mental notes of those around them as best he could without partaking.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(um, actually with a Stealth roll that bad, Famh at least thinks she's already contributed to the entertainment anyway and might as well ... LOL)
She had meant to only steal a discreet kiss like Cainneach had so sweetly done only moments before ... she thought. But as she turns her head just a bit too soon, before the concealing shadows had caught up with their faces, and the resounding buss which results rolls out from their joining lips to echo through a large portion of the great hall of Carnasse, Famh is able to look back over a growing list of similar well intentioned near misses at not embarrassing Cainneach with too open a display of her affection for him and draw her own conclusions. She keeps dancing with him, for now; slowly pirouetting like a dragonfly's wing, or a maple seed, around in the courtly swoop of the dance towards the spot at the first honor table they arose from.
"Oh, dear, I didn't mean to embarrass you quite like that, Cainneach! I suppose it's all come of so much time wandering the open heather, instead of a shadow-dappled wood. I never quite learnt to get to cover quick enough." She giggles; oddly enough, it is a freer and happier ring of joy that he hears in her voice and that sets his heart soaring than ... well, at least since the scene on the beach where she told him in plain Albish that she loved him for all their world at that time to understand. "But I don't know if ye can ever forgive me for this, but I've just realized I don't care. Ye are MINE, Cainneach,and I love ye with a love as holy and true as any of the Faiths holds up for mortal woman and man to strive towards. I am proud of you, Cainneach, and I am proud of our love. Not ashamed. It's only in the world's eyes we're embarrassed. So we might as well get all the embarrassment in that regard out of the way all at once." She raises her head and cries out in a voice that echoes throughout the hall (minor illusion to subtly amplify her words by a slightly louder repetition similar to a normal echo), "Your pardon, my Lairds and Lasses, for this seemingly unseemly interruption. But are we not all called by Gatanades to follow the voice above all of that Love he calls us to? And when that Love burns forth in your heart I believe He calls us to sing it out, in our lives with each other as much as in our praise of Him. It seems my love for this man hath oe'rset my reason quite. Sin' I came here I can't think of a time I haven't brought a blush to his cheeks, and it seems I'm like to continue as long as my last fading, sighing gaze has his handsome face in its view to bring blushes to. So then, let's get the greatest of them all over and done with so it's no hanging over his head wondering when I'll be coming out with it: I mean to wed this Cainneach of mine, though I'll not rush him as to the timing beyond that, and I trothplight him this here, now." She just happens to be beside her place at table as she says this last ;-D, and she reaches down to pluck up her cup and salute Cainneach with a ladylike sip of the wine it ...
A quizzical look crosses Famh's brows as she inspects the polished wood of her goblet. She could have sworn that cup was full when they arose to dance. Oh well, perhaps Orior someone had gotten thirsty and slipped back while they were gone ... ?
After a moment she concludes, "And so this memory will always be doubly special for us; for this, and for the welcome we all have received here for no greater merit than being in the service of a noble household knight in the service of your most esteemed, honoured, and noble guest Baron Aldred, which welcome I may say without veil has so far exceeded all our expectations in its courtesy that it can almost be said to have confounded them!" (Performance [for the whole thing]20; Tides of Chaos to gain advantage) She twinkles a glance at Duke Carnasse sitting at the high table, and discreetly (she hopes!) winks to Lady Ailsa as if to say, "I leave it to you if you want the public credit, but we both know what courtesy I'm talking about!" She's chosen her position well; Lady Ailsa is nearly in a direct line between her and the Duke her father.
But ... well ... it's Famh LOL ... (Stealth 6)
She does hope she manages to get her message across to the Lady before the wine hits, though ROFLOL.
=======================\ "The Lady of Fortune needs you to admit, as the first and essential step in Her service, that you repeat to yourself each new time that you begin the path that is each new morn you rise, that the joke could as well be upon you as with you, as well with you as upon you." =======================\
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(Wow, that's a helluva record scratch moment! I hope this is some typical Thulish gusto that the Duke and his people find endearing, otherwise I think our forester and his 'enthusiastic' lass are about to hit the unemployment rolls. Not great timing if she's looking for a fancy wedding! ;-)
Insight19 (to see if Cainneach noticed Famh was getting a wee bit tipsy)
In the Great Hall of Sewark Keep bedecked with the livery and colours of Katorheim, Carnasse and Beltayne the Great Table was set upon a dais, it was surrounded by no less than eight other tables and set about the walls were smaller minor tables, a group of minstrels played in the eastern corner upon clarsach and flutes. A veritable flock of young servants flitted about getting things ready then forming up aeound the entry as Duke Carnasse and his family made their entrance, Baron Aldred and his retinue watched on.
Duke Carnasse led the way in his dress a grey and black affair of hose, charcoal léine and high boots paird with a brat of dark plaid about the shoulders, his beard was oiled and hair combed back, behind him came Duchess Carnasse a much younger woman not much older than Famh with an emerald and black earasaid with matching plaid with her husbands about her shoulders....her eyes were always moving and her feet moved lightly over the stone, behind her came Carnasses son Michael almost a picture of his father and older by a decade or so than his step-mother, Carnasses three daughters followed the Lady Alisa being one of them....all stood behind their chairs at the High Table.
They were followed by two knights, Sir Moluag of Argyll and Sir Mary of Dunnfirm, both dressed in tabards of Carnasse livery they took up position at the first of the lesser tables.
Baron Aldred was announced by the herald as ' Guest, Most Esteemed and Honoured' and led to the High Table along with Sir Almeric once the two took up position to the right and next right of Duke Carnasse the High Table was seated and the retinue led by Seargeant Ori was allowed in and led to the table occupied by the two household knights.
To the other lesser tables were led various merchant families, two priests ( The Cardinal of St Marys being extremely frail and not often seen in public), Baron Aldreds staff and some minor Carnasse family members. Seated at the outer tables were heads of the household staff, sergeants and chief guardsmen and the like....something not often seen in more southern courts.
As the music played and folks chatted or people watched many eyes were on the retinue....
Music played on mostly mellow almost rustic tunes as servants brought out bowls of boiled water and rose petals for hand washing and other servants distributed silverware and knives and spoons. Pitchers of elderberry wine and flasks of ale were set out and the first course was brought out.
Carvers to the household served the High Table with all the serving, spooning, boning of fish and carving of the foods on the main table done by these skilled professionals, in what seemed a very exacting method and system, and the food was placed on the trencher for the guest to eat.
Food was, as in the south, served in ‘messes’, quantities to be shared between two, three, or four people. Pottage and stew were eaten from bowls with spoons, but slices of roast meat and other dishes were cut with a knife and placed on ‘trenchers’ – thick slices of bread – to be eaten with fingers. The trencher, soaked with meat juices was then eaten, collected for later distribution to the poor, or thrown to the dogs and was replaced when required.
First set out was mustard and brawn, plain pottage, beef, stewed mutton, pheasant, swan, capon, pig, baked venison, custard, leach and Lombard, meat fritters, two spiced pottages, blanche manger and jelly.
Later came the main course of roast venison, kid, fawn and coney, capercaillie, woodcock, partridge, plover, rabbit, goose, larkes, doucettes, painpuff, white leach, amber jelly, cream of almonds, curlew, brewe, snipe, quail, sparrow, martins, perch in jelly, petty peruys, baked quinces, leach dewgarde, sage fritters, white apples with caraway in comfits, wafers and hippocras.
There was a break in feasting then and entertainers, jugglers and others moved amongst the tables as sherry, mulled wine and mead and honeyed fruits were served.
At the high table Carnasse and Aldred were deep in discussion of their arrangement and Almeric found himself slightly trapped with two of the Carnasse daughters opposite and Michael beside him bombarding him with queries about Outremer.
At the lower table the companions were regarded in a friendly manner by the two knights but they did not initiate conversations. On the stones Salt was being taught about banquet etiquette by three older ladies....deerhounds......and a smattering of terriers, sighthounds and others of less certain heritage.
The sight of Cainneach in his new cotun and plaid is all it takes to restore Famh's spirits; and while she isn't quite at the right angle to make out both words he silently whispers, she knows the final word to fly to his lips at the moment he saw her was "...bhreagha!" ("beautiful") (INV in log: 11) For that moment alone she would be willing to amuse a thousand Lady Ailsas. In fact, it gives her the perspective to remember that this really isn't the world either of them belongs or is likely to remain in beyond this mission, and so it doesn't really matter whether Ailsa thinks her amusing or not. She catches his eye as he stoops to pet Salt, and tenderly mouths back, "Mo dhuine eireachdail ... "
At least, for the moment she doesn't care what Lady Ailsa thinks of her. It's a bit of a shock when she finds it is actually one of the Duke's daughters who has been told off to wait upon the crazy changeling girl and her rough-hewn forester lover. But after a moment she recalls the scene in Sewark's kitchen, and finds herself having to stifle a chuckle of relief. With such a father, Famh imagines she is not completely unaccustomed to plain manners and speaking after all, at least in the privacy of her own family circle. She nudges Cainneach as he walks by her in the procession behind Ori and murmurs in his ear, "I think we'll be all right ... ," with a discreet nod at Ailsa standing behind her chair in the row of daughters stretching left from her mother's chair, in the same way his son sat upon the Duke's right. "Somehow I suspect she might have seen rougher."
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Once she is seated, Famh neatly washes her hands in the proffered bowl of rosewater. She waits to be given a bowl for the pottage, meantime using her dearg to slice trenchers from the loaf provided. Well aware by now of the importance of behaving with the best manners she is humanly capable of ... if a little uncertain what that may entail ... she chooses the longer blade as being less likely to mangle the loaf for those who come after (Sleight of Hand 20). She offers the first slice to Cainneach before turning to the Beltayn knights with a polite smile. "Would ye like me to slice for the table, Sers?"
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
=EDITED=
Almeric dutifully sat at the head table, on the Baron's right, rising when the Duke and his family entered and only sitting once the rest of the head table had done so. Sitting with the adult children of the Duke, he recognised his tactical position at the banquette table, 'holding' the right flank to both observe and amuse the ascending lord and ladies of the Duchy. Almeric is tall, dark and handsome and could be charming too if called upon. The tongue can be just as powerful as the sword in this environment and diplomacy was the order of the day. Almeric would need to dance too!
Washing his hands in the rose water, Almeric uses polite ettiquette when eating. He will use a cloth to protect his brocade from grease and spills, serving Michael's sister opposite from their 'mess' before serving himself small portions, using cutlery where possible. When finger eating is unavoidable, Almeric will clean his hands between each serving and between each remove. He will not drink too much ale, to keep his wits about him, especially as he will need to dance later!
The welcome, food, atmosphere and entertainment were beyond measure, and comparable to any high court Almeric had visited in his life. Anyone of any import in the city was here, and the Duke had spared no expense in this banquette, making the best impression possible on his 'Most Esteemed and Honoured Guest'. Almeric surveyed the room carefully. Looked at Fahm, he sensed her nervousness. He glanced at Ori, raising his goblet in salute to his serjeant. He could see the man was struggling. Everyone needed to push themselves out of their comfort zones in order to grow. His eye moved to Fergus, checking the man's visage for threats. Finally he eyes met Lady Ailsa, raising his goblet and grinning from ear to ear!
"The Lady hath played a joke upon me, bravo!" He never imagined that the Duke's daughter would attend, when he requested a Lady-in-waiting to assist his Sorceress. "Lady Ailsa, it would be a great pleasure if you would do me the honour of a dance later." Beams Almeric in good humour. Almeric was also aware of the piercing eyes of the young Duchess. Michael was Carnasse's only son and it was quite common for nobles to take a young wife to continue their blood line. Almeric did not know the fate of the first Duchess and was not going to ask!
Michael was slightly older than Almeric, and seemed less experienced by the look of him, bred to ascend to his father's role from birth and spared the trials and exploits of younger sons like Almeric. Almeric obliged Michael with his war stories, keeping them short, light and violence free. When chatting, Almeric focussed on the positive cultural differences in Outremer, like silk, spices, art and medicine. The silk in his brocade tunic, and the steel in his sword, were both gained from Crescentium, a wealthy city state build on trade and commerce. Almeric can talk about Crescentium Steel at great length, explaining how it makes the strongest weapons known.
Almeric was thinking of ways to 'seal the deal' for Aldred. Ways to demonstrate the 'hidden' value of the Revenue and impress the Duke beyond measure. Perhaps some awkward problem, an unsolved mystery, or clear and present threat that the Duke is unwilling or unable to tackle at the current time. Almeric will see what Michael knows. It occurs to him that Ailsa may be equally informed, which he may be able to investigate during or after the dancing. Almeric had not yet taken his vows of chastity, which seemed uniquely relevant at the moment.
= EDITED =
Blasted woman! Ori fought at almost every stich this apparent seamstress measured him for. He had just fixed the arms of this and now she has puffs and extra cloth, he felt he could put his leg in sleeve now. It was becoming more and more apparent to Ori that he still hadn't shock the effects of sea on him quiet yet. He decided to hide back in his internal shell like on the boat, he wouldn't be able to fake cheery yet but at least he wouldn't be irritable either. He let the lot of them finish preparing him, glaring at any mention of the garb, mostly directed at Cainneach for he brought the woman and garb. Not accustomed to wearing swords it kept hitting everything around him, he decided to leave it behind. But the baggness this new attire gives did give him space for a handaxe strapped on his back underneath. If they weren't worried about him with a sword what harm could an axe be.
Making his way through the hall with Almeric up ahead and the rest behind him, he had to be shown wear to go and still wore his sea worthy scowl on his face. He refused food and drink while at the feast afraid that if was more then his mood he still hadn't shaken from the boat ride. The fish alone was almost enough to make him excuse himself. He couldn't help but keep watching the Duke's young bride, something about her seemed... off? He couldn't quite put his finger on it but the ways her eyes darted around, she look more like a scared creature caught in a trap. That look bothered him, but he know to stay away in his current state. Maybe inquire a bit when he's more like the pre-boatride Ori.
Cainneach is heartened by the compliment and remark from Famh. Safe in the knowledge that she was okay, he could more easily just revel in her beauty. Thatch and Tana seemed to be holding up well enough. Fergus, inscrutable as usual. Almeric was fully in his element, doing aspirationally noble things and ... making eyes at Lady Ailsa, the Duke's daughter?! I guess he really is a shrewd operator. And thank the gods that he hadn't done anything too preposterous in front of her. Right? Sigh. Now Cainneach just had to worry about Ori being peeved at him for the whole clothing situation. He'd done his best, in both acquiring the garb and blade and in finding someone to make quick repairs. The barbarian was clearly displeased with the results, but Ori must realize they're all in the same situation, just trying to get through this evening without any major incident, uncomfortable though they may be.
The procession to their table nearly overwhelms the young forester. The limited exposure to the "civilized" towns and nobility of Albion was nothing compared to this over-the-top assemblage of people and food. Despite their collectively dashing appearance, it was apparent that the retinue was unprepared for the ceremony of dining before a Duke. Washing hands in rosewater? Check. Washing them again before you're done? Well, Almeric did it, so I guess that's right. Famh's carving and serving? To him first?! Best to politely accept, can't make it seem odd. "Oh, how kind my dear, a choice cut to be certain!" Oof, what the hell am I saying? What do these knights think of adventurers anyway? Most townsfolk were either incredibly impressed or outright derisive, but these two were canny and difficult to read. Cainneach tried to keep an eye on the pair, mimicking their actions as closely as possible. That, combined with their lack of questions for the retinue, made for a tense and awkward dinner. This was nearly as exhausting as their forced march some weeks back.
Oh, and so much food! So much food that Cainneach had never seen before. And so rich... Cainneach could barely make it through the first serving. Years of living simply off the land had left him unable to stomach most of the indulgences presented before them. Cainneach took small helpings of each item that he thought he could manage, trying to leave enough room to make it through the endless parade of dishes. He imagined his physical condition was probably starting to align with Ori's, post-boat ride. And the mere thought of how many poor animals had died to create this gluttonous feast was depressing. Between keeping an eye on everyone and continuing to shovel food into his mouth at a slow and steady pace, the forester at least found it mercifully easy to avoid getting into conversations.
Speaking of animals, the only member of the retinue that seemed more comfortable in this circus than Almeric was Salt. The hound was revelling in the opportunity to tangle with the other deerhounds (maybe they're my COUSINS!), doing his best to show off how smart he was, certainly moreso than the ridiculous little terriers (Salt's words, not mine). Cainneach found Salt to be endlessly entertaining and it seemed like the ladies attending to the congregation of canines admired him as well. In spite of the difficult travel, Salt still appeared to be even finer a hound in all aspects than the Duke's (he's such a GOOD BOY!)
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As Famh offers Cainneach the thick and crusty slice, she happens to glance over at Lady Alais sitting at her place at the ...
Good heavens,. had she really just called the Duke's daughter by her friend the BARON's daughter's name? ... But of course, now she comes to think, the two names are practically the same. In fact they are exact anagrams when the two last letters are transposed to other locations. The last of her trepidation about Lady Ailsa vanishes; and she promptly registers an internal vow to get to know the Duke's young daughter better as circumstances permit. In fact she is beginning to feel a little sorry for her: the slight wince on her face whenever her father belches a little too loudly is skillfully hidden, but Famh has now had enough chances to observe the two of them to remember similar twitches of the nose, or little 'bones stuck in the throat' on other occasions.
In fact, the Duke's daughter appears to be displaying a whole series of changes in facial expression now, but her eyes are not turned towards her father but Sir ...
Famh's attention suddenly becomes exceedingly busy elsewhere as she quickly realizes how impolitic it would be to continue gazing in that direction any longer. And the possible number of choices for "elsewhere" being limited to one ;-), she has an opportunity to note how moderately Cainneach is dining. The sight brings back a sudden fragment of memory, when one of the "Manuals of Manners" that village gossip said even the boumen's children were raised by down south in Albion, had made its way to her childhood village outside of Brymstone. ... Well, at least a fragment of it had. But that fragment had then been so well chewed over by the village gossips that even she had heard some of it. And she remembered with a sudden declension of high spirits that ladies were supposed to behave modestly and do such things as appear disinterested in the food (OOC; at least, that's the consensus of all the googlesearch I was able to find)
Suddenly, she fears she may have been a little forward in slicing off the trencher for Cainneach; and she promptly registers another internal vow to follow his lead in future. There is still the matter of her remark to the knights, and she turns to them with a small gulp. "Excuse me, Sers, for being so forward. I've ... had a deal on my mind, and I forgot my manners a moment."
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Thatch was clearly out of his element at the feast, although he did his best to fit in, watching Fergus, who he considered more traveled and following his lead. He of course had attended some meals with the Dayne household, but only on special feast occasions and never like this. Even then, he was usually relegated to the far corners with the other servants and never to a table this close. He dug into his food with gusto, not afraid to sample some of the more exotic delicacies he was not used to. He was not about to let this opportunity pass him by without taking advantage of it, and while sharing a few choice cuts with Salt and his new friends. While he eats, he takes the measure of the room, looking closely to see what groups were talking with or avoiding others, and looking for threats or anyone acting suspicious. Although he does spare a glance or two at the entertainers and the serving girls.
Seeing the silent expressions on the knights at the table, Thatch tries to start up a conversation with his youthful exuberance and questions. “It was quite the trip up the coast, the wind and waves were brutal for someone unaccustomed to sea voyages. Have you traveled outside the Duke’s holdings? Say, have you ever seen a sea lyon? Interesting creatures. Is it always so cold up here in the north?” Thatch continues on, mostly with a mix of nonsense, trying to draw them into conversation and trying to follow up on any stories and rumors he may have heard from the stables.
The woman knight nods her head with a slight smile while the man keeps a neutral expression and Famh sets to work with enough skill that food is well shared about the table...
Checking over the retinue all seemed to be conducting themselves well, Fergus was not even trying to conceal a broad smile at the goings on and though both Ori and Thatch looked uncomfortable they seemed to be bearing up under the pressure....and Cainneach and Famh were being Cainneach and Famh, Tana was quiet and reserved and seemed quite withdrawn but that was not unexpected it being probably her first time amongst such a crowd.
His remark about a joke left a slight mark he could tell as Lady Ailsas eyes flicked to her father for the briefest of moments and her lip curled ever so slightly before returning to a warm smile as she declined her head at the offer of a later dance. His observations of the Duchess were matched, he noted, by Ori but Almeric fancied that she seemed to be looking for someone amongst the crowd.
As he spoke Michael was enraptured by his tales of Outremer and hung on his every word, he did mention a couple of things that Almeric picked up on:- cattle raids in the north-western pastures seemed to be a minor ongoing annoyance, the matter of the Cardinals replacement and who Katorheims bishop would send and a curious statement about ' corbies in the docks'.
Duke Carnasse and Baron Aldred seemed to be hitting it off quite well with light talk of hunts, weather and property management currently underway....
Later in the meal when honeyed fruits and sweeter delicacies were proferred may have tempted Ori more but as he averted his eyes from the Duchess he took in someone seated at one of the nearby surrounding tables against the walls, she...for it was a she.. was huge. Her shoulders almost as broad as his and dressed in the grey-black of Carnasse, he couldn't make out much as she was seated looking away from him...
Returning his gaze to the Duchess he reached the same conclusion as Almeric.
Cainneach was concentrating hard but his keen hearing did pick up some conversations at nearby tables and amongst passing servants:-
- Lord Michael has been seen near The Sands in recent times.
- Lady Margie nearly scared her chambermaid to death appearing out of nowhere as her room was being turned down.
- Two of the irregular guardsmen were beaten near half to death last week when they tried to break up a fight between rival merchant crews.
Sir Mary smiled at Famh, " Nonsense yer doing great, I ken we're all to be speaking Albish in deference to Your Lordship but if you've a fancy to use yer birth tongue I won't complain. My Albish is decent but lughead here", she elbows Sir Moluag forcefully. " Speaks it like he was dropped on his head as a child."
" Fran the south then, fram yer accent."
Sir Mary turned from Famh towards Thatch, " Aye, we've travelled a fair way. A tourney near Ongus was the farthest, but Katorheim, Glissom amongst others. A sealion? From a boat and ashore on the rocks from time to time, loud beasties the bulls are in season."
" Cold? Aye, but this winter is pretty mild. last winter we were shovelling snow off the streets on the daily. Katorheims near buried in the stuff at times."
.........................................................................
The feast moved on, drink was drank and soon it came time to clear the tables and move them away so dancing and other entertainments could take place.....whilst jugglers and fools capered about the edge of the room the harpists and flautists picked up a highland tune to begin the dancing.....
= EDITED =
As the servants arrive to clear tables and move furniture for the evenings entertainment to take place, Almeric excuses himself from Lord Michael and his sisters to move across to the Retinue at the 1st Table. Nodding respectfully to Sirs Mary and Moluag as he approaches, Almeric casually stands beside Fergus. Pretending to adjust his baldrick, he whispers in the Scribe's ear. "Find out about 'Corbies in the docks' , cattle rustlers in the northwest pastures and 'The Sands'. The Duchess is looking to someone here. Find out who is it."
Almeric begins to sway slightly and raising his voice, "I hope you all brought your dancing shoes? Pair off and cut a swathe across the hall everyone!" Almeric winks at Fahm and slaps Cainneach on the back. "There may be some friendly contests later; wrestling and even poetry!" laughs the knight, as he turns back to Mary and Moluag. "You know, I once talked down a band of brigands using poetry! Do you have any 'wrestlers' here? None that could match the Sergeant, I'll be bound!" Almeric grins at Ori and grips his bicep in appreciation. "He is so serious, he scares me sometimes!" Laughing at his own impression of being tipsy to the Duke's knights, Almeric sashay's across the hall Performance (Drunk) = 10.
Returning to the high table, Almeric bows to the Duke and Baron, then stands by Lady Ailsa. Bowing deeply, he holds out his hand to the lady in supplication and invitation to dance. Almeric is intrigued by the Ailsa, maybe attracted too. He had aimed to establish trust with a senior member of the court, maybe gain an ally, but this was something very different and unfamiliar. He does not have Cainneach or Thatch to scout ahead, Ori to hold the right flank, Fergus to guard the rear, Tana to minister to his wounds or Fahm to provide the critical insight. He was alone on this mission, he laughed. He who dares, wins! He thought and threw himself to the task! Let the dancing commence! Performance (Dance) = 15, Persuasion = 18.
Famh puffs out her cheeks with a little *whoof* of relief and grins at Sir Mary. "Aye, frae Laird Erek's lands jist sooth o' here. And this braw laddie is a brae lad fra inland. He's quite the forester, but he's foond himself new-keppit (caught) but a little agone. I trust he finds the experience refreshin' fer a change." She blushes in Cainneach's direction a moment and then laughs. "He's a wee bit shy-like, but I'm not at all, it seems, so it's a greet relief not to ha' to play the lady mair." She casts a curious eye at Lady Ailsa once more, then sighs. "And I was but playing. I hae nae way of kenning the burthen o't."
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Thatch slowly became more comfortable during the feast, thanks in large part to the conversation with the knights and his companions at the table. As the music picked up, Thatch loosened up and moved to pair up with dance partners, focusing on young ladies from the tables holding minor Carnesse family members and the merchant families. As he laughed, danced and told stories, he listened sharply and dropped some questions around the Sands and Corbies in light of Almeric’s orders that Fergus had quietly shared with them, all while listening for other rumors or stories as well.
Spirits high, Thatch was even bold enough to steal a dance with Famh away from Cainneach as he rotated between dance partners. But just one. “Famh, was your home close to here? Is this what the rest of the country is like?”
A sly look crosses Famh's face. "Nay, my home wasna. And I don't remember it being what the rest of the country is like." She grins and winks mischievously at Thatch. "Was there aught else ye wanted to ask me, ere Cainneach murders ye in a duel? Or do you think that will be enough information for our Capellar?" She clucks her tongue. "Sic' a pity too. A young lad like ye must ha' at least ane starry-eyed milkmaid waiting ye wi' bated breath at the Dayne manor, now. 'Twould be tragic if ye didn't make it back to her safe and whole ..."" Allowing just enough time for the full implications of that last innuendo to sink in, she caps the whole with a merry laugh.
Then, catching her breath, "Seriously, though, if you get the chance to talk with Sir Almeric ere I do, ask if he thinks Their Lordships would appreciate a little juggling trick I've just recalled, as our contribution to the evening's entertainment. Or perhaps you or Fergus have picked up something along the way that would suit better?"
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Even with his attention being held elsewhere, Cainneach's keen ears pick up a few useful snippets that he'll make sure to relay to Almeric. Once the usually calculating Capellar had ceased his gallivanting on the dance floor, that is. As for Cainneach, he had consumed a glass of mead and his head was now feeling a bit warm and fuzzy. Nothing too debilitating, but it was rare that the forester consumed alcohol, and he was finally able to relax a bit. Listening to the knights and Famh carry on in Visic was interesting. Cainneach could understand the conversation, but certain terms and phrases were unfamiliar to him. He mostly remained quiet, nodding when appropriate, answering questions about his background when asked, and paying close attention throughout.
When it comes time to dance, he winces in anticipation of what Lady Ailsa and the others of the court might think of his and Famh's attempt to replicate the elaborate movements taking place on the dance floor. His best hope was that it would be crowded enough that no one could take much notice of them. Maybe a tune might be played that would resemble a reel from his home, but even still, any dancing he had done had been years ago and with the abandon of youth, not with the self-consciousness of young adulthood. But, he can see no way to politely decline his beloved's invitation to dance, and besides, he might have an opportunity to steal a kiss while she was in his arms. Discreetly, of course! He nods, smiles, and takes her hand, leading her to the dance floor. He will, however, be happy to allow her to lead if she seems to know the style any more than he.
Acrobatics 20 (mirroring Famh's rolls for dancing)
Athletics 7
Stealth 23 (sneaking a kiss)
When Thatch comes through the line and moves to take a round with Famh on the dance floor, Cainneach thinks there is no one he could trust more. And plus, it gives him a chance to relax for a moment and take in his surroundings. He looks for any unusual pairings and to see how the rest of the retinue is faring.
Perception 21
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(typo edit, bc. I think Cainneach would prefer to not even appear to be the one leaVing at this point in the timeline LOL)
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
Tana takes her leisure and keeps Fergus company while the others dance and wheel about, they both manage to collect a fair degree of information for Sir Almeric as instructed through casual conversation and listening in to others.
( Once we get a post from Ori I'll round up the entertainment portion of the evening with responses to everyone.)
Ori finds his unenthusiastic mood to stay through the evens events. As tempting as the food looks and smells, Ori dare not eat it for he didn't know if he coukd keep it in, but he held his cup like he was drinking it and tried sneaking a few pieces of grub he though could survive his pockets to try in their rooms later. He tried to keep rhythm with his foot under the table but found he just couldn't get the feeling tonight. What a night for an off night. He would have had a blast making his way through the crowds and spinning about. He wasn't a bad dancer, not particularly good either, but good enough his personality could make up the rest. He must have been off his game, nobody even attempted to ask him to dance, well he was still at the table, and his scowl wasn't doing him any favors. So he made his way to a pillar he could lean against and hold on to his cup. Watching the others dance and mingling felt right. They were having fun and living life, even Thatch is getting a bit more confidence around the high and mighties. He found he kept the coin from Almeric in his hand, fidgeting with it constantly as the night went on. Ori kept quiet and mostly to himself, making mental notes of those around them as best he could without partaking.
(um, actually with a Stealth roll that bad, Famh at least thinks she's already contributed to the entertainment anyway and might as well ... LOL)
She had meant to only steal a discreet kiss like Cainneach had so sweetly done only moments before ... she thought. But as she turns her head just a bit too soon, before the concealing shadows had caught up with their faces, and the resounding buss which results rolls out from their joining lips to echo through a large portion of the great hall of Carnasse, Famh is able to look back over a growing list of similar well intentioned near misses at not embarrassing Cainneach with too open a display of her affection for him and draw her own conclusions. She keeps dancing with him, for now; slowly pirouetting like a dragonfly's wing, or a maple seed, around in the courtly swoop of the dance towards the spot at the first honor table they arose from.
"Oh, dear, I didn't mean to embarrass you quite like that, Cainneach! I suppose it's all come of so much time wandering the open heather, instead of a shadow-dappled wood. I never quite learnt to get to cover quick enough." She giggles; oddly enough, it is a freer and happier ring of joy that he hears in her voice and that sets his heart soaring than ... well, at least since the scene on the beach where she told him in plain Albish that she loved him for all their world at that time to understand. "But I don't know if ye can ever forgive me for this, but I've just realized I don't care. Ye are MINE, Cainneach,and I love ye with a love as holy and true as any of the Faiths holds up for mortal woman and man to strive towards. I am proud of you, Cainneach, and I am proud of our love. Not ashamed. It's only in the world's eyes we're embarrassed. So we might as well get all the embarrassment in that regard out of the way all at once." She raises her head and cries out in a voice that echoes throughout the hall (minor illusion to subtly amplify her words by a slightly louder repetition similar to a normal echo), "Your pardon, my Lairds and Lasses, for this seemingly unseemly interruption. But are we not all called by Gatanades to follow the voice above all of that Love he calls us to? And when that Love burns forth in your heart I believe He calls us to sing it out, in our lives with each other as much as in our praise of Him. It seems my love for this man hath oe'rset my reason quite. Sin' I came here I can't think of a time I haven't brought a blush to his cheeks, and it seems I'm like to continue as long as my last fading, sighing gaze has his handsome face in its view to bring blushes to. So then, let's get the greatest of them all over and done with so it's no hanging over his head wondering when I'll be coming out with it: I mean to wed this Cainneach of mine, though I'll not rush him as to the timing beyond that, and I trothplight him this here, now." She just happens to be beside her place at table as she says this last ;-D, and she reaches down to pluck up her cup and salute Cainneach with a ladylike sip of the wine it ...
A quizzical look crosses Famh's brows as she inspects the polished wood of her goblet. She could have sworn that cup was full when they arose to dance. Oh well, perhaps Ori or someone had gotten thirsty and slipped back while they were gone ... ?
After a moment she concludes, "And so this memory will always be doubly special for us; for this, and for the welcome we all have received here for no greater merit than being in the service of a noble household knight in the service of your most esteemed, honoured, and noble guest Baron Aldred, which welcome I may say without veil has so far exceeded all our expectations in its courtesy that it can almost be said to have confounded them!" (Performance [for the whole thing]20; Tides of Chaos to gain advantage) She twinkles a glance at Duke Carnasse sitting at the high table, and discreetly (she hopes!) winks to Lady Ailsa as if to say, "I leave it to you if you want the public credit, but we both know what courtesy I'm talking about!" She's chosen her position well; Lady Ailsa is nearly in a direct line between her and the Duke her father.
But ... well ... it's Famh LOL ... (Stealth 6)
She does hope she manages to get her message across to the Lady before the wine hits, though ROFLOL.
=======================\
"The Lady of Fortune needs you to admit, as the first and essential step in Her service, that you repeat to yourself each new time that you begin the path that is each new morn you rise, that the joke could as well be upon you as with you, as well with you as upon you."
=======================\
Famh Thrawn Fiadhaich - 'half elven' sorcerer (wild magic) 2, Sleeping Gods - A Dragon Warriors campaign in the Lands of Legend
Quspira Inirali - tiefling cleric (Life domain) 4, Painted's "He'll be the father of my child"
---RETIRED HEROES' REST HOME---
Sae Ivui Nailo - wood elf rogue (inquisitive) 5 , Sea of Death: Captain Hailstorm's Lost Treasure
Ryshraxea "Shra" Naranthi - tabaxi artificer 1, Nyx's Tomb of Annihilation - Group 1
(Wow, that's a helluva record scratch moment! I hope this is some typical Thulish gusto that the Duke and his people find endearing, otherwise I think our forester and his 'enthusiastic' lass are about to hit the unemployment rolls. Not great timing if she's looking for a fancy wedding! ;-)
Insight 19 (to see if Cainneach noticed Famh was getting a wee bit tipsy)
Active - Player: Sleeping Gods ---- Complete - Player: Masquerade, Teleportation Machine ---- Complete - DM: Extradimensional Spaces
Come join the Worlds of Pphost, a new and growing PbP community! Adventures are currently running in the world of Haven or do some role-playing!
It never hurts to help! ---- PbP: [Rolling Dice] [Tooltips] ---- DDB Content: [Free Adventures] [Encounter of the Week]