| Logs |
2001-06-03
| Starfall |
| Realms |
Retired
| Reality Fault |
General Info
 |
The Family Reunited at Last
Blue Room
The Blue Room is aptly named. A dark blue wool
carpet matches the draperies at the windows, while the furniture is a
lighter blue, almost turquoise. The walls are covered with tapestries
depicting underwater scenes. The cloth-covered walls and floor give the
room a hushed ambience.
The queen has requested the presence of the St. Genevieve siblings once again, and the trip to the palace is as routine as it ever is. Matthew leads them down the hallways toward the Blue Room, but this time the sound of voices raised in anger from inside stops Matthew in his tracks before he can knock. Alex raises an eyebrow, hearing in spite of herself, then glances at Carroll to see what he thinks the right thing to do would be. Carroll asks softly, "Are you aware of any sort of problem today, Matthew?" Sten glances at his half-sibs, a little nervous but trying not to show it. Yelling royalty is bad... what am I doing here? I'm a simple mercenary...
One of the voices is Baroness Morgana's, and it's her comment that comes through clearly, "-make your decision as the Queen, then, and not as some silly soft-hearted girl! Honestly!" Alex blinks... then nods firmly in spite of herself. A fraction of a second later she realizes she was eavesdropping, and her ears tilt back in faint embarrassment at herself.
Matthew looks appalled as he realizes his own mother is shouting at the queen. "I'm not sure... she wanted to ask Sir Alex about something, but..."
Carroll considers for but a moment, then says calmly, "Why don't you announce us, Matthew? I presume they're expecting us."
The queen's voice responds, but too faintly to be heard easily through the heavy door. The deeper rumble of Ludmilla's voice answers her. Matthew nods a bit nervously at Carroll's suggestion, then screws his courage up and knocks.
The voices cut off, and the tigress opens the door a moment later. "They're here, your Excellency." Ludmilla nods and invites the foxes in. "Delegates have started arrivink for Council." Alex steps in with her brothers, her ears up with interest. Wonder what the queen's waffling about this time? I'll guess it's certainly not the Council.
Carroll smiles quietly and seems completely at ease at the prospect of coming into a shouting match between the Queen and her advisers. Hopefully, he thinks, an outsider in the room will help make things a bit more formal and let tempers cool, even if we aren't directly able to help resolve the tension. With this in mind Carroll steps in to the room and says, "Good morning, your Majesty, Baroness Kerensky, Baroness DuPrei. It is a pleasure to see you all again." Alex nods politely to the appropriate person as Carroll names them. At the news about the Council members, Carroll smiles cheerfully and asks, "Ah. Has everyone been well-behaved?"
Morganna chuckles. "So far, they have been. Although I'm sure that will change when they're all here."
Sten wonders a bit uneasily if slipping quietly in made him unobtrusive enough to avoid Getting Involved with yelling royalty. Carroll seems perfectly able to help Sten in his goal, by moving directly in and speaking to the people in the room, carefully making polite conversation and letting them give him the information he needs to work with. As he would let Sten lead the way in a fight, he seems perfectly willing to lead the way in conversation.
Queen Arianna still looks a bit nervous and ill at ease, but nods to the four. "I..." She pauses, then continues at a glare from Morgana. "Sir Alex, I... think that we need to talk about the duel. Westmark has wronged both of us, and shown himself to be scum with no honor of his own by his use of assassins and thugs. By the Code, he has forfeited his rights to an honorable settlement... but while I have the option of executing him, you do not. I will let you decide... do you want to kill him in an honorable duel, or would you prefer I order his execution, and we will have his attacks against your family be prominent on the list of crimes for which he is to be executed?"
Alex looks slightly surprised. She pauses and considers for a moment. Finally she asks carefully, "What is the Code, please? Is this a Maidstone thing?"
Arianna smiles. "Well, not originally, but we still use it. The Coda Duello. The rules of honor -- what constitutes an insult, what constitutes a provocation, what is beyond the pale and dishonors someone." Alex nods thoughtfully. The queen continues. "And employing assassins is definitely out of bounds. One may have a champion in certain circumstances, but not hired thugs."
Alex nods to herself again, then glances at Carroll for his reaction. At his slight ear-flick of agreement, she turns to the queen and bows politely, "Your majesty, that would be quite acceptable to House St. Genevieve. Thank you for your concern for our family's honor -- we appreciate that deeply." Carroll smiles at his sister's words, wordlessly agreeing with her and reinforcing her acceptance for the family.
Arianna sighs and sits back. "Thank you. Your family's honor is something we all must defend -- and by defending yours, I defend my own as well." Morgana nods, satisfied by the outcome.
Ludmilla growls, just a bit gruff. "Now you are thinkink like qveen, Arianna."
Carroll gives Ludmilla an odd look, then says to the Queen, "I think you are making a wise decision."
Alex glances at the tigress in faint amusement, then looks curious, "May I ask a question, your majesty?"
Arianna nods. "Certainly, Sir Alex."
Alex says, "Why don't you just give Lucrezia a truth potion, to be sure she's not involved with her father's activities? I'd think she'd understand the need for you to know that, considering all her father's done... and if she refuses, even knowing that, well... I'd say that sends a fairly clear message as to whether she's trustworthy or no."
Arianna looks startled, then looks at Morgana, who flashes a grin at Alex. Ludmilla just nods. Arianna asks, "You don't think it would be a problem with the Dukes?"
Carroll asks, in reply, "Why would the Dukes object to knowing that the replacement for someone who was quite definitely inappropriate was not involved in his plans? They too would be able to better trust her." Alex looks startled herself -- did the queen not think of that?! -then re-startled at the thought that the queen might actually worry that the dukes might not approve. Finally she just flicks her ears back in rueful amusement. Methinks Arianna needs to either marry Carroll and get the benefit of his learning on how to run things smoothly and well... or marry Iago, and be forced to learn. That, or knuckle under to the mad prince. Er... maybe I better not ever mention this aloud either... She grins faintly.
Morganna nods. "That's what we've been telling her. Your Majesty, we've found the guilty party we've been looking for, for so long, and the Dukes are not going to blame you at all for making sure we've got all of them. Besides, you're the queen, and you have to start acting like it around them."
Alex's already raised eyebrow goes even higher at Morgana's comment. A little faintly she murmurs, "...you've... been telling her?" She glances at the queen, and asks in honest confusion, "You're not seriously worried the dukes might be upset that you execute a treasonous assassin?!"
Carroll frowns a bit at this last statement from Morgana, but doesn't say anything. He suggests, "Anything which the Crown does in its own interest which does not damage any one of the Duchies is also in the best interest of the Duchies themselves." He smiles and adds, "My admittedly limited experience with each of the Dukes suggests that they are definitely aware of this, and support having a stronger Crown. The state of the Crown under the regency was not strong, and each of the Dukes learned that it was definitely to their disadvantage to be in this situation. They gain strength from your strength."
Alex nods to Carroll, "Yes, exactly!"
Arianna nods, unconsciously straightening up as she thinks about that. "All right. We'll do it that way, then. If she doesn't pass, she loses the estates. Maybe..." Ludmilla rumbles again. "All right. No maybes." She looks a little embarrassed at Alex's question. "I've been tiptoeing around all four of the Great Houses for so long, I just have trouble thinking I can get rid of one that easily."
Alex looks even more confused, "But... you're not getting rid of one Great House! You're getting rid of one bad apple!" She looks bemusedly at the queen again -- surely Arianna can see that?
Sten watches and listens quietly to his noble half-sibs instructing their Queen on how to run her kingdom. What have I gotten myself into? This looks to be an interesting ride... if I survive knowing these people. Straightforward fighting was simpler. What do these people want of me? I don't belong in this gathering... should I be hearing this? What if the Queen grows up into someone who decides to have all witnesses to anything she considers humiliating removed?
Arianna twitches an ear. "And if Lucrezia is guilty, too? At that point there is no clear heir and the County will be broken up. Or, well, I could always promote someone loyal..." She smiles at this thought. "Yes. Let's find out."
Carroll smiles and says, "Very good, your Majesty."
Alex also smiles, looking relieved that the queen has finally made a decision. Then she coughs softly, adding quietly, "Um... would it be too forward to ask if we could hear the results of that?" She grins a little sheepishly, "I'm um... kinda curious, by now... just the final outcome, that is."
Arianna smiles a bit archly. "If she was involved you'll definitely hear about it. But yes, certainly. We'll let you know what happens."
Alex beams cheerfully, "Oh, thank you!"
Carroll chuckles a bit, "Thank you, your Majesty," shaking his head gently at his sister's exuberance.
- The delegates to the League Conference begin arriving, a few
before the execution of the rebellious Westmark. His daughter passes
her own examination and is confirmed as the Viscountess, though about a
tenth of her estate is confiscated by the Crown by way of a penalty to
her father, technically before her inheritance. Finally, the ship from
Starfall arrives.
Alex bouncies excitedly on her toes, hanging from the rigging and watching the Starfall ship come in. She can see the St. Genevieve flag, along with those of the other Starfall attendees. She waves down to her siblings, happily calling, "There it is! That's Father's ship -- I can see the house banner!" Seconds later she scrambles lithely down to the deck, so she can be with her brothers to welcome their father.
Count Timothy is on deck with a spyglass, and waves to the dockside crowd. He grins as he catches his daughter's exuberance, and it seems a long time of anticipation before the new Thunderchild docks, though it is really not that long. Alex beams excitedly, her tail swishing behind her as she leans over the railing and waves gleefully back!
Carroll smiles, "Good! We'll be able to take him up to the new residence the Queen has so graciously gifted us. It will be much more comfortable than the ships, and I'm sure he'll need a little extra room to work and perhaps entertain as one of the Council delegates."
Alex whirls around, her eyes dancing with mischief, "Captain! Sten! Do we want to surprise Daddy maybe?"
Carroll smiles, "I think so, yes. As soon as we're off the ships, I think I'll ask him about Joiselle Rivard." He grins, "And then introduce Sten." He asks Sten, "That sound okay? That way, you'll be able to have a moment or three to form an opinion of your own about Father, Sten." Alex giggles delightedly again -- she's obviously looking forward to this!
Sten smiles at Carroll. "I like that idea. Go for it; I'll be wherever you see fit to put me -- your setup sounds fun."
Carroll smiles, "Escort us as a guard, then. We'll meet him at the dock, and then take a carriage to the house. Stay in earshot."
Sten nods smartly, grinning slightly. "Yes, sir." Alex grins, making sure that Mac has a guard detail assigned, so Sten won't stand out, and holds still (barely) while Pablito hastily makes sure she's tidy -- then whisks over to stand properly next to Carroll. Sten's eyes sparkle wickedly, with a glint of something else... he follows Carroll's orders, every inch calm but for the eyes.
Carroll has taken extra care with his appearance, although it's hard to tell. Gathering at the dock and waiting for their father to disembark, with a carriage at their backs, Carroll smiles a little, exuding a quiet air of self-confidence which is only a little bit faked. First a trip back to the unexpected estate, and then an unexpected relative. His whiskers twitch with quiet amusement. Alex is standing perfectly correctly, flanking her captain... but she's got a big grin on her face, and her tail is fluffy with excitement!
Count Timothy comes down the ramp with his own entourage, as befits the conference delegate from Starfall, but smiles as he sees that the welcoming committee includes his kits. He grins at them, then stands through the usual speeches -- which mercifully are only a few minutes long this time -- before breaking away and joining them. "You're looking well, all of you. How have things been going here?"
Count St. Genevieve is a fox, now in later middle age. He is
still in good shape, his physique wiry rather than muscular, but with
little excess fat. His head fur is streaked with gray, but his green eyes
are still incisive and clear in a sharp-muzzled face. He is dressed in
his usual impeccable best, dark green breeches and black boots, with a
ruffed white shirt trimmed in pale green. His coat and cloak were left
in the entrance hall with the exuberantly feathered hat.
Carroll smiles and correctly greets his father, as do Alex and Horatio. He pauses happily and gets out of Alex's way afterwards, having a strong hunch what will come next. Alex bows correctly with her captain -- and then, when the formal greeting is over with, gleefully flings herself on her father in a huge and exuberant hug! "Daddy! We missed you how've you been how're things at home is Nanna okay Bryn's fine of course we've got so much to tell you and I have someone I want to introduce you to it's so good to see you again!" She pauses mostly for lack of air, rather than lack of questions.
Carroll smiles and also gives his father a hug, although less exuberantly, adding, "It is good to see you. There are several things we should talk about." He gestures to the waiting coach, adding, "I have arranged a place for you to stay while you are here."
The Count grins, expecting pretty much the same thing as Carroll did from Alex, and is not at all disappointed. "Everyone's fine, and you've got to tell me what happened with this kidnapping business. I assume that's been dealt with now?" He nearly misses the promise of an introduction, but nods at Carroll's invitation. "Oh, good. I was afraid we'd all be stuck in the Embassy."
Carroll smiles and says, "No, Father. You will stay at the estate the Queen has just granted the family, as befits the head of the household."
Alex beams, bouncing slightly on her tiptoes so she can continue to cheerfully hug her father around the neck, even as she's happily urging him towards the carriage, "Oh, foo, that was just silliness and all taken care of Daddy I have something important to tell you now, no really, Daddy, are you listening? I'm actually being courted, can you imagine?!"
The Count looks surprised, then smug. "That the Queen granted you? My, my... I assume you're going to tell me how that happened?" At Alex's announcement he looks simultaneously alarmed and pleased. "You are? Who?" He glances at Carroll, hoping for some indication of whether or not this is a good thing...
Alex beams and bounces excitedly a few more times, "Guess, Daddy!"
Carroll smiles reassuringly at his father, then laughs at Alex, and says, "Give him a hint, Alex."
Timothy grins, echoing his daughter's impishness. "Considering how excited she is, I'd bet either a horse or a stablehand..."
Alex giggles, sticking her tongue out at Carroll, then bounds lightly into the carriage, cheerfully tugging her father along, "He's the Costa Yerm- oh, DADdeeeee!" Carroll ushers everyone aboard the carriage, where the talking will continue. A second carriage carries the baggage and the rest of the staff.
Carroll laughs and says, "No, but he does ride, and he can dance."
Alex sighs in exasperation, then reaches out and cheerfully pokes her father, "You are so silly." She grins at Carroll, "Yeppers!" then adds to her father, "He's the Costa Yermo ambassador, Don Carlos! Wanna meet him?"
The count's ears twitch at that. "The Ambassador? How old is he? Of course I want to meet him! I probably will, won't I... regardless."
Alex grins cheerfully, "Well, yes... um, let's see. I think he's... 27 -- a little bit older than Carroll." She beams at Carroll, "We could invite him over for dinner tonight or tomorrow night maybe, before the meetings?"
Carroll smiles and says, "I am certain he would be pleased to meet you too, Father." He gives the elder fox a serious look, and adds, "I expect Duchess White Haven will be pleased to see you too," watching for a response. Alex blinks! -then carefully does not giggle at that one!
Timothy looks vaguely relieved. "That seems quite young for an ambassador, but much better as a suitor..." He gets a rather curious look on his face at the idea of the Duchess wanting to see him... partly apprehension and partly interest.
Alex hmfs at her father, "Foo, it's whether you do the job well, not how old you are!"
Carroll reassures his father, "The Don has been a gentleman. He very correctly asked permission of me, as you were not available, to court my sister. I would have said no had he been too old. Not only that, she'd have given an older man a heart attack..." He dodges his sister's cheerful whap even before she begins it.
Alex folds her arms in mock-injured dignity, "That's all right, Carroll..." she glares at him in fierce amusement, "I know where you sleep!"
Carroll smiles pleasantly at Alex, then turns to his Father and says, "We're almost there."
"Don't get too carried away, Alexandra," her father cautions. "I might just have to make you the heir apparent."
Alex snorts amusedly at her father, "Oh, right..." and looks completely relaxed and disbelieving at that potential threat.
- The carriage turns in at the gatehouse. The 'small country
estate' that the Queen offhandedly granted them had turned out to be
nearly a square kilometer of horse ranch. It takes a few minutes to
reach the house from there, but the arrival is without incident.
Once the carriages have arrived at the house and everyone is settled, rooms found, baggage in the hands of staff, and the tour completed, Carroll makes sure his father is comfortable in a quiet upstairs study. When Alex and Horatio have joined them he says, "Now that we're settled, perhaps you'd like to hear all the news?" Alex grins, settling herself in comfortably next to her father -- she's very happy to get to see him again after so long! She's also quietly made sure that Sten can be listening in the next room, so he won't miss anything about his mother.
The Count nods. "Yes. Let's all catch up, shall we?"
Carroll gives his father the public story of the kidnapping, and then the real story. He explains the problems with Westmark, and all of the events which have led to the gift of the lovely estate. He also makes a point to talk about Don Carlos and his opinions of him, and how he seems to be genuinely trying to be someone Alex would associate with. The count looks shocked at the danger the queen was in. "No wonder she's called a conference about Costa Yermo. But... how do you feel about things, Alex? This could mean war with your, umm, intended's country."
Alex raises an amused eyebrow at her father, "He's not my intended yet, Daddy... he's still just courting."
Timothy brushes this distinction aside with a gesture. "You must be taking him seriously, Alex, or you wouldn't have mentioned him to me. How do you feel about the possibility?"
Alex grins, "Well, if we understand what's happening there correctly, he's not just being blackmailed through the mad prince keeping his children hostage... but apparently there are a lot of dissatisfied noble families there. The main thing keeping them in line is the Inquisition, if we understand correctly."
The count looks enlightened. "Ah. This is different. Maybe... hmm. Something to think about. War is an unpleasant business at the best of times."
Alex nods a bit gravely, "Yes. If the noble families rise up against Iago, though, there's the issue of who gets to rule next... and none of the noble families are that um... well-behaved towards their own people, from what I can tell." She frowns slightly, "I know that folks have said that the people might rise up... but I'm unconvinced that's at all wise. We should not expect the people we're supposed to be responsible for to do all our dirty work, after all."
"Another interesting thing came up, apparently out of the blue, regarding someone called," says Carroll, watching his father's face intently, "Joiselle Rivard."
The count's face goes through an interesting series of changes in a very brief time. Surprise first, then pleasure, followed by curiosity and settling into suspicion. "Joiselle Rivard. I knew a wolf by that name quite a few years back. Is Bryn telling stories again?"
Alex grins quietly to herself. She also is watching her father closely, and can feel the subconscious ripple of fur and muscle, due to leaning against him. She giggles softly, "Does Bryn ever not tell stories?"
Carroll continues explaining, "Apparently she was a well-respected mercenary who has relatively recently passed on, due to a sudden disease." Carroll produces Sten's charm, in the shape of the family crest, and says, "She willed this to her next-of-kin."
Alex adds, partly for herself and partly for Sten, "What was she like, Daddy?"
Carroll smiles, "I must say, we're terribly curious. Bryn gave us a tiny hint, but didn't want to go on. What happened?"
The count looks upset when he hears that Rivard is dead. "It's been a long time... what was she like? A warrior. Exuberant. Willful... stubborn, in fact. She'd decided that an arranged marriage in the Empire was not what she wanted to do with her life and had managed to get as far as Alburtis, where she was dodging her father's armsmen. I got mixed up in it one evening when they finally caught up with her, and added her to my crew -- well, officially -- before we sailed the next day." He sighs wistfully. "It had been a long voyage -- that was the time I'd taken the Lightning as far as Ilrayel -- and she was very grateful for the rescue. I gave her that as a token before I sponsored her to the Mercenaries Guild in Skaergard. I can't picture her dead... she had too much life in her." He sighs.
Alex smiles slowly, listening... then, a little reluctantly, asks the question that's been bothering her, "Daddy... did Mother know?"
Timothy looks fondly at his daughter. "Of course. I told her when I got home. We didn't keep secrets from each other... and those trips were too long for either of us to remain celibate."
Alex sighs, looking relieved, and cheerfully hugs her father, "Okay! So... are you going to give that back?" Her grin is a little mischievous as she nods at the pendant he's still holding.
Timothy nods. "I was going to ask where you got it from. Her next of kin were all in the Empire, as far as I know, and none of them would have been too happy to see that. Did she find someone of her own eventually?"
Alex grins at her eldest brother, "Sort of..."
Carroll chuckles, "Someone of her own, yes. I'd be happy to introduce you to him." He turns and calls, "Sten, would you come in please?" Alex giggles softly.
Sten's ears perk, as he hears the moment come... he straightens slightly from his eager lean toward the door, and breathes in. Lets it out. Runs his fingers over his face-fur... and walks very calmly and properly in, fighting to keep his ears from twitching and tail from wagging. Carroll introduces, "Father, I'd like to introduce you to Sten Rivard. Sten, I'm pleased to finally be able to introduce you to Count Timothy St. Genevieve." Carroll keeps a straight face too, smiling just a little at his father, and curious what the reaction will be. Alex watches her father and half-brother happily.
You see a six-foot-tall russet wolf with a distinctly
vulpine cast to his features and fur. He seems a fairly sure call for a
half-breed, with a muscular but lighter-than-pure-lupine frame. The red
canid is not possessed of a handsome face... it's fairly unremarkable,
but for warm golden eyes outlined in darker, near-black fur. He wears
plain but clean attire; good black calf-boots that have seen a lot
of walking and loose trousers a few shades darker than his fur. Even
darker russet than his trousers is a tabard covering chain armor and a
cream shirt that probably used to be white. His chest is crossed by a
leather strap holding a heavy crossbow at his back, and two sword belts
are slung in a low X across his hips; a short sword at his left side,
a broadsword at his right. Plain black leather gloves and a pouch or two
are tucked into the wide black belt at his waist. Despite the arsenal,
the tall canid moves with an easy grace.
Sten bows very correctly to his unknowing father, and says, "Pleased to finally meet you, sir." He watches to see if the Count assumes Sten is Joiselle's son, or widower.
The count was expecting a mercenary, but that's the only thing that doesn't surprise him. "Pleased to meet you..." his voice trails off as he takes in Sten's youth, and then the species cross. He looks puzzled, then shocked, and then once again suspicious as his gaze travels around the rest of the room. "Sten.." He clears his throat. "How old are you, Sten?" Carroll hides his huge grin with a quiet sip from his water glass, letting Sten speak for himself. Alex giggles again! her eyes dancing with mischief as her father's suspicious gaze crosses her.
Sten's eyes dance. "Twenty-two, my lord."
The fox clears his throat. "I... see. And you're Joiselle's oldest son?" Alex laughs aloud at that.
Sten says quietly, "I am Joiselle's only son. I'm half fox." Carroll looks cheerfully at Sten, nodding a little, then back at his father.
The count turns a very suspicious look on Alex as she laughs, but only for a moment as his attention is drawn back to Sten. He turns to stare at Carroll, then starts to walk around the big mercenary, glancing at his profile, then at Horatio, then back to Sten, then to Carroll again... Alex can't hold her glee in any longer -- she giggles again, "Oh, go on, Daddy -- can't you see it too? Even Bryn could tell!"
Carroll says quietly, "He is Joiselle's only son, Father, and your second-oldest son." Alex bouncies slightly in her seat, still beaming, at Carroll's announcement. Sten nods assent to Carroll's words, face quiet. He watches Timothy for a reaction, standing still as the fox looks him over.
The count nods, his eyes starting to tear up. "I can see... she never told me!" He opens his arms to hug the half-wolf. "Welcome home, son." Alex beams happily again, terribly pleased at how things turned out. Sten blinks, blank-face crumbling at the rather unexpected welcome. He moves to accept and return the hug, looking stunned. Alex's tail wags cheerfully a few times, watching... then she sniffles herself a little, still beaming, and bounces up to trot over and happily add to the hug welcoming Sten officially into the family.
Carroll smiles at his father and half-brother, and is a little relieved by his Father's reaction. He lets them embrace as long as they both like. "Sten trained with his mother, and became a mercenary working with her team. He earned his own good reputation, and comes well-recommended from the Guild. He has also been honest with us, despite a potentially upsetting meeting, and we have brought him on staff as a guard. So far, we are quite pleased with his service and with what we know of him."
Sten chuckles, and speaks for himself despite the noble family gathering, looking at his siblings. "I like you too, so far. I'm glad we met." Alex beams again, her eyes very bright.
The count nods. "Well, of course. Joiselle wouldn't have raised a cub any other way. I still wish she would've told me... but... no. I think I know why. She would have wanted to do this on her own, too."
The new estate, it is decided, should have a house-warming
party of some sort. After some consultations, Carroll invites the Queen,
the Dukes, the new Viscountess, and some of the more important lesser
nobility from the area and from the government. The party is scheduled
for the evening of Count Timothy's arrival, to allow him to meet with
the local VIPs.
The staff at the estate is competent and the preparations go smoothly. Carroll decides to invite the ambassadors as well, so that there is an excuse to have the Count meet Don Carlos. Alex is cheerfully exuberant, which is hard to handle in small rooms, but fortunately the central ballroom is large enough for many dancing couples. The Count is well enough rested, not having had any major responsibilities on his sea voyage, and soon enough is dressed and waiting with his children for the guests to arrive.
Carroll is ready early, and seems to be everywhere, getting to know the new staff and finding out how they will best do things, making a significant effort not to attend too closely to the staff. When guests begin arriving he stops his fretting and moves to greet them, joining his family. Alex stands with her brothers and father, taking her customary position next to her father of the lady of the house. Usually she looks like she's resigned to facing a fate worse than death when she has to do this... but her enthusiasm at her father's presence, coupled with the promise of later dancing, means that tonight she's glowingly happy.
The first arrivals are the advance security party for the Queen, but soon enough real guests begin to show up. Duchess White Haven is one of the earliest, looking around for the Count... for once, she doesn't show up with a handsome young male on her arm. Carroll smiles and cheerfully introduces the two nobles, mostly as a formality. Alex grins, watching the duchess and the count meeting, and curtseying when proper. Carroll doesn't say anything about the Duchess' lack of a companion, and also introduces Sten to her, as a newly discovered half-brother.
White Haven grins at the introduction. "Really? Congratulations, Lord Sten. You've found a good family to be related to." She smiles at him, then winks at the Count. "When does the music start?" Alex brightens at the duchess' question -- now that's a lady who's got her priorities straight!
Sten bows correctly to the Duchess, unwontedly resplendent in deep browns and goldens, with an elegant touch of black piping and lace here and there for emphasis. He tries to feel comfortable standing with his noble family, velvet-clad and with less of an arsenal than usual. Timothy deadpans, "Soon, your Grace. When more of the guests have arrived. In the meantime, the buffet is over that way..." The mink grins and heads off for the food. "I'll be back!"
Alex covers a giggle as she glances up at her father, then whispers between the arrival of guests to her newest brother, "Hey, Sten! You look great!"
An attractive young girl with proud carriage, her joie du vivre
causes her to practically glow with enthusiasm. Her flowing dancing dress
is lovely: a rich and glowing emerald with gold-trimmed embroidery, that
complements her bright eyes well. Full skirts trail the floor, matched
by the long, flowing sleeves lined with antique-gold silk, carefully
tucked up so as to not get in the way while dancing. Tasteful hints of
the fine chambray under-dress are revealed where the outer sleeves are
laced to the snug, embroidered bodice, which rises, artfully cut, into a
high collar of white lace framing her small face. The golden sparkle of
the lovely old St. Genevieve family jewelry glitters in her beautifully
coifed hair... and distractingly just above her bodice. Two rings shine
bright golden in her left ear.
Sten's eartips flush a little. "Thanks, Alex... you're fit to stun the hapless young men yourself. I'm just trying to take Carroll's advice and not stun the hapless ladies with my own fashion sense..."
Carroll comments shamelessly, "Why, when you can use mine?" and looks back to the greetings. Alex laughs softly, giving both her dear and silly brothers quick hugs -- then stepping lightly back to her position. Sten grins at Carroll, then looks quietly pleased at the hug.
Before you stands Carroll Waynewright St. Genevieve, heir
to the St. Genevieve legacy. His clothes, a jacket of soft rust brown
velvet, over a slightly lighter russet vest, with a tan silk shirt, and
soft suede breeches slightly lighter and slightly redder than his jacket,
which are tucked in to calf high leather boots, are both practical for a
ship captain, yet quietly perfect in their elegance and simplicity. His
russet fur seems to glow with life, the white under his muzzle, and the
flash at the end of his full tail standing out against the red-brown of
his jacket and breeches, which blend well with his own fur. He wears the
family seal at his breast, of sparkling gold and a few tiny diamonds,
the pentacle and sword of the family's crest, clear and bright for all
to see. Gold cufflinks and watch-chain also sparkle from his sleeves
and vest. He smiles graciously and nods at your glance.
The guests start arriving more quickly after the Duchess has entered, the local nobility mostly polite, though a few seem suspicious of the foreigners who have received such favors from their Queen. The ambassadors are more readily identified, mostly in the formal dress of their homes. Alex will greet them all courteously as they're introduced to the St. Genevieves. Her pleasure and pride in her family obvious. Sten stands and looks decorative, carefully greeting the guests alongside Carroll as per his siblings' instructions earlier. He's not entirely confident he's doing a good job at it -- but at the very least he knows he's a standing testament to Carroll's good taste in tailors.
Matthew arrives before his mother, a bit shy as he is announced with a young lady-mouse on his arm... Lord Matthew and Lady Talia. Carroll smiles and introduces Matthew and his guest to his family, as pleased to see him as he has been to see anyone, neither insulting or patronizing him. He smiles and leaves ample time for Matthew to introduce his guest, but doesn't press the issue if the mouse is uncomfortable.
Matthew smiles at the greetings. "Thank you for inviting us. I hardly ever get to be at a party without having to help organize it." He introduces his friend. "This is Lady Talia... her parents are vassals of the Duchess."
Alex grins at Matthew, "Then this should be fun, I hope, for you!" She smiles and greets the young lady graciously.
Monsignor Jean-Claude Duvalier, the ambassador from the Karadan Empire, is a rabbit with medium-brown fur and elaborately ringletted head fur. His formal dress is white breeches with brown boots, a cloth-of-gold waistcoat with paisley embroidery and a wine-red sash, and a wide-brimmed floppy hat. He bows to the St. Genevieves, then kisses Alex's hand. "Enchanté, mademoiselle."
Alex curtseys to the rabbit, smiling, "Likewise, Ambassador." Sten eyes the Karadan ambassador discreetly. Is that what I'd have to wear if I were at a fancy party in the Empire? I wonder if I could do curls. Hmm.
Carroll smiles and greets the Ambassador, saying, "We are pleased you have come, Ambassador." Alex wonders idly, as she smiles at the Karadan ambassador, if her father is still 'wanted' there... cheerfully she thinks, Nuts to them if so!
Duvalier straightens up and smiles at Carroll. "I am honored by the invitation, m'sieur. Pairrhaps your father the Count will have a few moments to talk about thees conference later?"
Alex chuckles quietly... sounds like Duvalier hasn't ever met the Count, if he's not recognized him. Timothy also chuckles. "Perhaps, Ambassador, but I really don't know that much about it yet myself." He adds, "You'd do better to ask the folks from Maidstone. They'll be the ones presenting a proposal and evidence at the meetings."
Carroll looks curious at this, but decides now is not the time to ask. Instead he lets his father answer and takes a moment of pause to give Sten a little quiet reassurance that he is doing well and looks quite nice, and to offer any useful suggestions he can think of, of which there are probably few. One important one is, "Dance with Alex. Or she'll be unhappy," which is delivered very softly and with a gentle smile.
Alex's ears flick back and she grins... but doesn't comment. Instead she shifts slightly, between guests, wondering when Don Carlos will arrive... then her eyes widen at a horrible thought. What if he doesn't come?! Her ears tilt back sternly at that thought -- if he doesn't turn up she's going to whack him so hard at practice tomorrow!
Msana Rishala, the Hasheeran ambassador, is the next to arrive -- a stocky caribou with broad antlers. She is dressed in a short tunic with garishly splotched colors, medium blue trousers, and black boots, liberally embellished with jewelry. The tunic is apparently supposed to represent something, but it's difficult to tell what. There are several shapes, each an isosceles triangle with a spike on the narrow angle and red and yellow flames and smoke at the middle of the opposite side.
Carroll smiles and says, "Ambassador Rishala, it is a pleasure to see you here tonight. I am delighted to have been able to invite you, and that you have joined us." He introduces his family -- Sten included, of course.
Rishali smiles. "I hope the entertainment isn't going to be as exciting as the last party I was at, though."
Alex laughs softly! Carroll says, "I certainly hope for that, too, Ambassador. I don't know how many parties like that I want to attend."
Alex grins cheerfully at her eldest brother, "Aw, c'mon, it was exciting!"
Sten leans obediently over to whisper to Alex, "My lady sister, wouldst thou care to dance with thy humble brother shortly? I'm afraid I'm not a skilled partner, but your advice would be appreciated."
Carroll easily replies, "I learned several important things at it, Alex, including that I don't like sewers much."
Don Carlos comes up behind Rishali at that point and coughs. "Eet was a beet painful for some of us."
Alex laughs again at that! -then grins at the poor coyote, "So it was. Hi, Don Carlos! We're glad you could make it."
Carroll chuckles and says, "That too." He performs the introductions once again, making sure the two Ambassadors are introduced and the newfound Sten is formally introduced to Don Carlos, as well as their Father, the Count.
Alex takes the opportunity, while Carroll's introducing the don to the man he supposedly hopes to make his father-in-law... to lean and whisper back to Sten, "That would be fine, Sten, but you don't need to talk formally to me!" Sten winks cheerfully at Alex.
Don Carlos Chavez e Altamira is a coyote dressed in an elaborately frogged, dark brown short vest and breeches, knee length riding boots, and a ruffled white shirt with a string tie. "I would not have meessed eet for anytheeng, Sir Alexandra. You were quite eenseestent that I owed you some more dances, and you already are a terror on the practice fields."
Alex blinks -- then giggles in spite of herself, "Oh dear -- I guess I'm a bit transparent there, eh?" Carroll quietly wonders what his father will make of that from the Don. Alex watches her father and the don with openly bright-eyed curiosity as they size each other up.
Don Carlos bows politely to Sten, and very formally to the Count. "Sir. I trust that the Capitán has eenformed you of my suit for your daughter's hand, and that eet meets weeth your approval?"
Alex smiles quietly... Nicely put! she thinks. Sten watches with interest. Carroll smiles quietly and lets his father answer the question, realizing the Don seems happy enough to let Alex beat up on him in weapons practice. Wonder what he'll make of that? The Count smiles, acknowledging the formality with a bow of his own. "He has, and insofar as it matters, I do. She will have to make that decision herself, you realize." Alex grins cheerfully up at her father, pleased.
Don Carlos bows again. "Of course. She ees quite, how ees eet said... capable of takeeng care of herself, si?" Alex covers another grin at that, her ears flicking back in self-conscious amusement. The coyote gets enthusiastic in his description. "And an avengeeng veexen when I was struck down by a foul assasseen! She ees a true knight, your excellency."
Alex curiously scans the don as he speaks with her father, checking to see if he's still got that slightly increased magical aura -- she'll scan the other guests later -- then she blinks at the don's enthusiasm, her inner ears turning slightly pink, "Well, um... thank you so much, don Carlos! -but Carroll helped too, after all." She looks embarrassedly pleased. Sten grins proudly down at his feisty little sister.
Carroll smiles, "It certainly was an exciting party, which I doubt any of us will forget quickly. I am quite pleased we were able to prevent the Don's assassin from succeeding."
The coyote smiles at Alex and bows to kiss her hand as well. "I shall return when you are done weeth thees duty, si?"
Alex grins, "Thank you, Don Carlos, that would be lovely." Her grin broadens mischievously, "There are several dances I'd like to be sure I have a partner for, after all... if you don't mind!"
Duke Erenos Redtail is a huge and imposing bull elk, 250 centimeters tall including the antlers -- even bigger than Ludmilla. He is dressed in his usual immaculate pale blue and white; a simple tunic and trousers -- bulky clothing would not be a good idea on this fur. His wife is also present, looking small next to him but actually still a good 210 cm. The Duke nods to the siblings, then concentrates on the Count. "Welcome to Maidstone, your excellency." Carroll greets the Duke and his wife, making sure to introduce everyone. It doesn't surprise him in the least that the Duke has no problem identifying the Count, and he doesn't interrupt them.
Alex smiles, her head tilting back as she graciously greets the ducal couple. I wonder if he's embarrassed I had a crush on him for a while? Her ears flatten slightly... then she grins quietly to herself, Then again, I don't think I'll worry about it... not only did his wife not seem to mind, but it was because I had a crush on him that I started nosing around as to whether it was really he that was responsible for the death of the old king. He may not know it, but it was a good thing I did have that crush for a while!
The count nods. "Thank you, your Grace. It's been very interesting so far." The elk gives him an odd look, since he knows that the Count has only been here since the afternoon, but apparently decides not to ask for the moment and moves on to let the receiving line continue. Sten hides a tiny smile at his father's comment.
Lucrezia Octavian, the new Viscountess Westmark, looks wary as she steps up to greet her hosts. She is a young cougar, not much older than Carroll, and unlike her father she is dressed in the latest fashions. Her dress is green silk with gold highlights and dagged sleeves.
Carroll smiles and greets the Viscountess, welcoming her to the party and introducing his family, hopefully in a laid back way to alleviate some of her nervousness. Alex also smiles at the young lady and welcomes her in as gracious and friendly a manner as she has every other guest. She hopes the poor thing relaxes a bit... although she doubts it will happen, since now the Viscountess is a 'catch' -- she'll be busy fending off the opportunists, probably. The young Viscountess still looks nervous, but then plunges ahead. "I had no idea what my father was up to. I apologize for my family."
Alex smiles and quietly takes one of the Viscountess' paws, "Of course not. Don't feel bad... how could you know? Please, feel welcome."
Lucrezia sighs. "Thank you... but I should have known. I knew he had some odd visitors, but this..."
Carroll smiles, "Your father's dishonorable actions are behind you now, and you can build your own reputation and let your actions speak for you. You are welcome here."
Alex suddenly grins, "Actually, your excellency, I quite understand what you mean about not knowing, and odd visitors!" She giggles softly, glancing mischievously at her father, then shakes a mock-stern finger at him, "You have so many stories we want you to tell us!"
Carroll chuckles, and says, "Hindsight is always perfect, Viscountess. Do not be too hard on yourself. Learn from his mistakes and move forward with your life." Sten smiles reassuringly at the nice lady cougar, understanding the feeling of uncertainty of one's welcome, with the empathy of recently being in a similar position. Perhaps I should ask her to dance later, if she's still feeling unsteady.
The Viscountess Westmark nods again, missing the hidden message. "Thank you. All of you."
Arianna Elizabeth Margareta Dunbarton, Queen of Maidstone, is dressed tonight in her usual pale green/dark green combination, but the outfit is quite elaborate and nearly as fashionable as Lucrezia's. The two greens are set off by gold jewelry and a cloak lined with yellow. Ribbons of various colors are used for decoration and the dagged sleeves show flashes of golden-yellow as well. She is wearing the informal coronet instead of an elaborate crown, and the dark-phase vixen's head fur is braided in an elaborate looped pattern.
Alex brightens in pleasure when the queen arrives -- Carroll will be so pleased! Carroll smiles and greets the Queen formally, "Good evening, your Majesty. Thank you for coming to our humble gathering, for you do us great honor." Bowing low and elaborately, he continues with introductions, "This is my father, Count Timothy St. Genevieve. You have already met my other siblings; Alexandra, Horatio, and Sten."
Alex curtseys properly when mentioned. The count bows as well. "Your majesty. It is a pleasure to finally meet you. I apologize for not calling on you during my last trip through your realm."
Carroll smiles and comments easily, "He escaped this time; there was nothing I could do about it!" Alex giggles!
Sten is enough into the swing of things that even the Queen's arrival doesn't faze his feeling of competency at this greeting business. He bows and greets the royal vixen with a genuine smile. "Good evening, your Majesty."
Ludmilla and Morgana follow the queen in, the tigress in her usual leather-and-tabard, and the mouse in a nice, if somewhat old fashioned, gown of dark red and gold. Alex smiles and nods politely to the two baronesses as well. Arianna smiles. "Thank you, my friends. It's nice to get away from the palace for once. And I understand completely, your excellency. You had more important things on your mind at the time than socializing."
Carroll says, "I would like to thank you specifically for your generosity in the gift of this fine estate. It is more than I would have ever expected or asked. It was quite a pleasant surprise, for which I can do nothing but thank you."
Sten bows to the tiger and mouse too, while idly measuring up Ludmilla... I wonder how I'd do in a fair fight against her... Alex grins cheerfully at Carroll, lightly teasing, "Our insidious plot is working, Cara -- she's out having fun!"
Carroll smiles, answering, "I hope to be able to further this plan by dancing with her repeatedly." He grins cheerfully.
Arianna looks sly. "Oh, it wasn't all just generosity. Now that you have a nice place to stay, I'm hoping you won't be running off to sea quite so often." Her eyes twinkle. "I'm not going to hold my breath, though."
Alex laughs softly again. Carroll seems to consider, saying, "Hmm. Staying here in a beautiful place surrounded by interesting people, to tend to a challenging business market, or spending time in a cramped ship's cabin in the middle of nowhere..." He looks back at the Queen, and says with a self-mocking grin, "Yes, I wouldn't hold your breath, either." Alex grins wickedly at Carroll, carefully not commenting about how she could cover for him on the ship... Carroll smiles, and says, "Enjoy the party, your Majesty. I will make a point to ask you for the pleasure of a dance later."
The queen smiles at Carroll, her eyes twinkling. "I feel sure that I would certainly agree to a petition by a member of family who has been of such service to the Crown."