Winter has passed and it is getting  close to Firstbloom and Planting Week, when many country folk celebrate the coming of spring and start to prepare for the following years.  Days are getting longer and warmer, nights are getting shorter and spring is almost here.

Settlers are starting to brave the roads again, and it will soon be time to restart the exploration of Midmarch again.  However, you have received an invitation to attend a celebration in honour of the next generation.

The leading ladies of Midmarch (Lady Bai Kao-leMaistre, Lady Valoria Lebeda-Ondari and Dame Viktoria D’Lodkova) have all recently given birth and wish to introduce their offspring to the great and good of Midmarch.  The event will happen on the Vernal Equinox in a specially erected marquee in Central District.  The event will be combines with a fundraising event to encourage donations towards a free school that the ladies intend to found.

In honour of the event, the ladies are also making donations to the various bars, taverns, inns and hotels across Midmarch, so the general population can drink to the health of the young ones.

The three main guests of honour are ...

Amelie Suchin de leMaistre  (Girl)
Leo Azar Donovan Lebeda-Ondari (Boy)
Marie Sylvius D'Lodovka  (Girl)


OOC:  This includes all PCs (whether you think you deserve it or not)  You should be prepared to wear your best bib and tucker :)

Please Note:  This was planned well before Dara and Sara arrived  :P
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:57, Fri 22 Mar 2019.

Adoven is the first to toast his beloved and their newborn girl.

Domitius arrived at the naming ceremony dressed in a military style courtiers outfit with the black jacket of the Restov Guards, at the entrance he stopped and took off his sword and handed it to Barbatius.  "Hold this for me my friend and I will call if I need you.  His next few steps he felt naked without a blade at his side but he was determined to enjoy the day.

He moved amongst the crowd chatting with a glass of wine in hand.

OOC: I was going to say, that's pretty convenient.

Dara stood amid the crowd with her trusty companion Lydia at her side.  Baby Sara was in a backpack carrier on Dara's shoulders trying to catch flies in her wide open mouth while taking in the sites and sounds of the celebration.  Dara was dressed in a rather festive outfit, a long and flowing dress with a rainbow of colors cinched by her family's Kapenia at the waist.  Her hair was tied back in pigtails with ribbons and tassels of blue to signify her wishes of health for the newborns, at least the ribbons and tassels that had eluded Sara's grasping hands.  She'd left all but a dagger at home and also sported her satchel of medical supplies because at places like this, there was bound to be something happening that required such things.  She and Lydia both carried a beverage though she only sipped at it from time to time.  This was a celebration but she did not want to let it get the better of her!

A small, but imperious looking woman dressed in a black formal gown  stomps into the marquee, and everyone seems to just move aside to let her past.  While well cut, her gown  appears to be barely decorated, unntil you realise that is almost completely covered in small black gem stones, although they barely even glitter in the light.  Her black cane is beautifully carved, with a highly decorated silver head.  ” Where is my great grand son?” she demands loudly, before making a beeline for Valoria.

A younger woman follows, dressed almost as richly but in shades of blue.  ”Valoria is over there, mother. I am sure Leo will be with her …“ she says pointing to the Lady of Ringbridge.  Another couple, the man dressed as a senior Sword-Lord of Restov, and the woman in a plainer courtier’s gown, follow them across the room.

Almost imediately a buzz passes around the room identifying them as Lady Luna Cartan, head of one of the most influential magical families in Restov, her daughter Lady Victoria de’lebeda, Senior Sword Lord Horatio Lebeda-Berain and his wife Cordelia.  He is leader of the Northen Sword Schools on Restov and a city councillor, while his wife is a Lebeda cousin.

Alisa D'Medvyed was another of many in attendance.

She too was attired in a way that wasn't typical of her, but which she had really enjoyed putting together.   What it had cost notwithstanding.    She did, of course, anticipate she might see Domitius here, and wasn't about to present anything under her best.   She was satisfied with the lavender, white-trim gown she wore. It was a nice change from her priestess raiment, or most especially studded leather armor, even if it did feel unfamiliar.  (something along these lines >>)   

Her pure white hair was stripped of its usual formal braid, and instead worn loose about her shoulders, like a fall of new winter snow.  Not absent, however, was Acavna's crossed-spears sigil.    No, even here she was enough priestess not to go without it.   As well, in the unlikely event of trouble, it insured she still had access to the Defender's divine magic.

She waved briefly to Dara and her small entourage, and spotted Domitius, whom she approached, somewhat from behind.

"Guess who?  I was hoping I might see you here. The gods continue to be kind, it would seem." 

At the sound of Alisa's voice Domitius began to turn towards her, he paused for the barest moment his eyes widening slightly as he took Alisa's ensemble in.  He took her hand and bowed to kiss it "My lady, it is if the heavens have blessed me this day." as he stood he captured his eyes with his own and it felt as if the room had emptied around them.

An irreverent thought popped into his head, so this is what it feels like to be smitten.  He reluctantly let go of Alisa's hand "You look beautiful my lady truly I am blessed.

Pipre appears in her finest dress, which is quite fine indeed. A luxurious, figure hugging black, backless, with a waterfall of glittering silver necklaces running down the smooth, slim lines of her back. Tall gloves nearly reach to her bare shoulders.

She congratulates all involved but stops to speak with Lady Bai Ko-leMaistre, whom she has a more personal connection with from days of exploration.

"I wasn't aware childbirth gave such a lovely glow," she tells Bai Ko with a warm smile, "and Amelie is perfect as far as I can tell." She does wonder if her own mother glowed green after Pipre was born, but doesn't voice this thought.

"In regards to the planned school-- I was thinking of having a college built. I would love it if we could make it a sister school to the one being developed. Perhaps we could arrange a reduced tuition to alumni of your school and it would be an honor to commemorate today by naming it.. hmm, the Three Ladies of Virtue Academic College?" She gestures vaguely to Bai Ko herself as well as the two other ladies of the hour.

"Thank you." Bai smiles in response to the complement, "And I think we can all agree that coming to an arrangement between schools and colleges can only be a good thing.  However, she stifles another smile at  Pipre's suggested name for the college.  <aqua>"Well, Valoria maybe." she comments, as her mind  wanders back to a particular night with the fey of the Narlemarch.

"Why not Pipre's College?  And leave your own name as a legacy in the city's annals?"

Seeing Alisa's gesture, Dara turned and gave her a wave in return.  That outfit... Dara made sure they were in eye contact before mouthing the word "Wow" to her before using her hand to gesture over her own form as a compliment to Alisa's chosen attire.  Dara had thought she'd done a good job selecting her own raiment but seeing Alisa made her feel terribly underdressed.

She started moving towards Alisa but watched as Alisa reached Domitius before her.  Watching the two of them together warmed her heart.  Perhaps this time next year they might be celebrating their own naming day?  Young love at it's finest, except that they were both half-elves which meant they were likely older than she was.  Did that make them young, still?  Dara chuckled privately at the thought.  She kept to within a few meters of the pair but did not come closer.  Let them have their time together.

Andalon was dressed in the dark blue academic robe that he kept for special occasions. Dark blue with two broad white stripes where the robe fastened at the front, with the golden key
symbol of Abadar repeated down the length of both white stripes. His white shirt, dark blue trousers and buckled shoes peeked out from the neck, sleeves and hem of the robe. Of course, the silver and topaz holy symbol pinned over his heart stood out beautifully against the dark blue robe, as well.

He circulated among the guests with practiced ease and confidence, greeting old friends and new acquaintances alike. He congratulated Bai and Henry on their beautiful little daughter, every bit as sweet as her mother already. He joined Adoven in toasting Vik and their gorgeous little daughter, too.

Then he joined the Lebeda family gathering to congratulate his cousin Valoria and her husband Cyrus, a former comrade-in-arms from the early days of Midmarch. Young Leo looked like he was already growing as a fine, strong little boy and obviously a great joy to both of them. Andalon could hardly wait to give Val a big hug for being such a wonderful mother to his newest cousin and a hearty handshake with Cyrus. He greeted those of the small group of lords and ladies that he had previously met at Cyrus and Valoria's wedding and was introduced to those he had not had the honour of meeting before.

As he turned and looked around the room he looked very pleased with the way everyone had presented themselves and proud of the strength and enthusiasm of their rapidly growing community.

"I think I may have overdone it a little with this number," she confessed to Domitius, concerning her gown, as he released her hand, and she remembered to breathe again.

"But, I am pleased with it, anyway."  And even more pleased by the result!   

"I've not done anything such as this in a while.   And I feel blessed as well.  So, a day for blessings, then." She touched his arm, briefly.  "Sometimes, things are just very right."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:38, Thu 21 Mar 2019.

"Well, I think that I scandalize poor Brother Bart often enough as it is. Not everyone understands the breadth of my interests and some might call into question the others when viewed adjacently. I'll be happy enough with an educated populace.

"I was also thinking of turning my very fine alchemist workshop into the pillar of an alchemy guild before realizing there aren't any alchemists to recruit."

She leans in, "And the good will of providing the college should allow me breathing space to attach a hotel to my brothel."

Kendrick Winters entered the hall for the naming ceremony. He was dressed in military dress but not in the recognizable colors associated with the Restov Guard or its Sword Schools. Instead, Kendrick was dressed in white shirt and jacket with black trousers and sash. The short-waisted military jacket was trimmed with gold thread on the cuffs, sleeves and collar. A wolf head was embroidered over his left chest and right shoulder. He seemed very much at ease with only a dagger at his belt.

He stopped at the entrance to scan the crowd. Domitius was on one side of the room. Several notable council members from Tusk were dotted throughout the room. Finally he was able to spot the guests of honor because of the women that surrounded them. Kendrick made his way to the noble ladies.

Kendrick smiled as he stepped closer. He offered congratulatory messages and blessings, "May Iomedae watch over your households." After a brief exchange of pleasantries, he moved away from the circle.

"It is indeed a day for blessings" Domitius said beaming, and perhaps we should offer our own blessings upon the little ones. Have you met any of the ladies? he said offering Alisa his arm.

Safiya makes an appearance at the event as well, mostly because she feels it's expected of her. For the occasion she dresses in her new courtier garb, a midnight blue outfit of elven cut, shirt, jacket and trousers. She offers brief congratulations to the new parents before moving to the edge of the party to prop up a wall for a while, trying not to look too uncomfortable. Social gatherings were never her forte.

Sporting a rather tame green dress, Kiera makes a rather quiet appearance- and after wishing some even quieter congratulations to the new parents, tried to go and find herself a bit of a drink to maybe not look so out of place.

Zelona came to the Naming day festivities a bit uncomfortable in a bit of finery that is obviously new to her. She smiled as she approached the three new mothers and saw their healthy children. "May the storms of Gozreh be gentle upon your lives until you are rooted enough to withstand them," she murmured over each of the children before leaning in to kiss their foreheads once each.



She gave a curtsy that seemed far more natural to her than the clothing she wore currently, and then started to mingle among the other guests. She smiled and made small talk with her previous adventuring companions from the gnomish mines. "Safiya, how are you faring these last few months? I am glad that winter is passing and we have the renewal of spring on us finally. Do you have any businesses in Midmarch you are part of? It seems so many of everyone is busy building new things all the time around here. I heard Piper say she is building a college for goodness sake!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Fri 22 Mar 2019.

Kendrick picked up a drink and made his way to Safiya and Zelona. He smiled, "Ladies. You both look wonderful." He finished his drink. "Care for a drink?" He asked the two while he set down his empty glass.

She took the offered arm, saying "No, Domitius I have not.  You know, I've spent the majority of my life within the Medvyed lands, preoccupied in recent years with completing my rather unusual form of training.  Many people and places are not well known to me.  But yes, please, let us go and offer our blessings."   

Within the crowd, Alisa's eyes happened to catch on Kiera, and she did her best to wave to her, though she was not close.

"A road companion of mine," she told Domitius. "And quite a fun person to have at a party."     

Marik arrived, alone unfortunately, to the Naming Day ceremony shortly after it began. He looked strikingly handsome as always, dressed in light grey trousers topped with a matching waisted jacket. His shirt was the color of sky on a cloudless day, while his brightly colored yellow jabot evoked the idea of a stray bolt of lightning cutting across the sky.

He didn't know the three mothers well, only seeing them at city council meeting and other events held by Lord Henry, but he still made his way to the receiving line to congratulate each of them and wish the newborns good health. Not seeing Cass yet in attendance, he strolled across the room, making pleasantries with those he came across.

In reply to Zelona (msg # 18):

"Ah, Lady Zelona." Safiya gives Zelona a courteous nod. "I am glad to see you well. Yes, I have been helping to settle a group of settlers in their new homes up north. It's on the Shrike waterfall itself, quite a picturesque location. Dreadfully pastoral place right now, but I hope to be able to change that some day. And what of you? How have you been keeping busy these months?"

She greets Kendrick when he approaches them. "Ser Kendrick. A drink... perhaps later. I have yet to congratulate you on your post, Marshal."

Zelona makes her way to the bar area, and encourages Kendrick and Safiya to join her there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:36, Sat 23 Mar 2019.

"I look forward to meeting her and this is a party."  Domitius  said as he summoned a servant over with a wave.  "One moment my dear before we meet the guests of honour." he turns to the esrvant and says "My dear fellow, if you would be so good as to just pop outside the marquee you will find my man Barbatius with three packages.  If you would bring them back to me I have a Name Day gift."

As the servant hurries off Domitius returns his attention to Alisa "It's traditional in my family to give a gift to a child on their Name day, something for them when they are a little older usually."  the servant returned shortly with three ornately carved wooden cases the lid of which had the heraldric charge entitled to each of the three children.

Why thank my good man, now if you would follow me.  he guided Alisa through the crowd to the three ladies and their charges Domitius bowed "My ladies, may I introduce my Lady Alisa D'Medvyed, we bring blessing to you on this joyous occasion and gifts for each of the young ones. he indicated the servant foward and each of the ladies recieved their relevant case.

Opening the case revealed red velvet inlay and carved wooden blocks of a variety of bright colours, each one individually carved to have the symbols of the houses active in Midmarch a quick glance revealed D'Medvyed, Solanus, Winters, Vallani as well as leMaistre, Sylvius D'Lodovka, de Lebeda-Ondari as well as many others.

While his adventures now tend towards the cut and thrust of balancing the books and managing paperwork at the V&A Shipping Offices (or performing other, undisclosed taks for the Lord Warden), and though not generally known as one to attend social gatherings, Percy could not let the opportunity to greet the newborns of three women he knows well, from their first days together in Middlemarch.

Even in his finery, the young noble seems still rather dishevelled, as though the clothes he wears are neither comfortable nor particularly well fitting, despite the tailor's best efforts, but with a glass of wine in his hand, Percy seems happy enough and pleased to renew acquaintances with not only the three ladies in question, but also many other of his old friends.

Bigjob, the half-orc,  stands quietly in a corner  watching the crowds as they mingle.  Almost like he is back at work - as security (and muscle) at  The Bottled Nymph.  Occasionally he nods discreetly at members of the good and great, as they walk past, and  has already paid his respects to the newborns and their parents.

He wears a yellow trimmed, purple dress suit in the old-fashioned formal style - and while it looks a bit battered it has been tailored so that it fits his impressive body perfectly.

Seeing the procession of people approaching the proud parents, Dara found her way to the line and soon stood before them.  Holy symbol in hand Dara prayed, "May Sarenrae bless you, your children and your houses with Her divine goodness and health and hay Her dawn's light shine on your families and grant you long, happy lives together."  And then the profession came out of her. "How did everything go?  Any issues with the pregnancy or delivery?  They look perfectly happy and healthy as do their mothers."

With her blessing complete, Dara departed as the others before her.

Kiera gives a small wave to Alisa- and a small grin, watching as she seems to be... with someone.  However, she remains where she is, for the time being, content to just peoplewatch and play the wallflower.

As they chat, people circulate around between the various areas.


OOC:  I think I have caught everything.  If you are still waiting for a response from me -  nudge me.

"Yes...it is traditional," Alisa concurred with Domitius, suddenly feeling a little badly she'd not thought of that.   She'd been so wrapped up in presenting well for him, she hadn't thought as much of the ones who were the true focus of this gathering.    She made a short mental note that just because someone was making your heart beat do funny things, it was not an excuse to not think of others.

As she was introduced, she made a proper curtsy, which even as only very minor nobility she'd been educated to do as a girl.   "My ladies, it is an honor."

Once she glimpsed what Domititus had prepared for them, she smiled, nodded admiringly.   It was splendid, classy, very fitting.

When there was an appropriate opening, Alisa stepped nearer to the little ones, raised her open right hand, and spoke softly but audibly-  "Arleia toreth hal somal, porei ess berete mor kardiven al-treyis havistra."     

Those words where Azlanti.   She did not speak Azlanti -- yet, she'd heard it whispered enough by Her, that she knew it by heart, as well as intuitively understood what it meant.  Which she then repeated in the common tongue:

"May the moon's light shine always to ward and light your way, and ever guide you safely back home."     As she gazed on their sweet, innocent faces, she felt for a moment that she would cry - though managed not to do so.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:12, Sun 24 Mar 2019.

Kiera seems content to people watch, and ends up moving to try to avoid just looking like a lump.

Moving to the Nursery thread.

As his daughter speaks with Lord Henry, Ferdinand gets  himself a drink and mingles.

The younger knight smiles and approaches Sir Ferdinand, taking a sip of his wine. "Hello there, Sir Ferdinand!" he says happily, smiling at him.

"Ah.  Hello there.  Have you got a drink yet?  They are handing out a fruit punch ..." he says snagging a new glass from a passing waiter.

In reply to Sir Ferdinand Ledkno (msg # 34):

"I have gotten to have some of the punch, yes. It is quite good."

Adoven had been spending time with his new daughter, Marie. He then spends time circulating, renewing acquaintances and meeting newcomers from other cities. He wears a new naval blue outfit in the military style, with dress arms at his sides. Eventually he makes his way over and introduces himself to Sir Ledkno. "Good day, sir. I do not recognize you, but you still look familiar. Are you perhaps related to one of our citizens?"

"How did you find the ride down here from Restov?  Did you encounter any problems on the way?" Ferdinand asks before taking a sip of hispunch.

"The ride was certainly not bad. We encountered some goblins, but nothing too incredibly dangerous."

"I should hope not.  The roads are all patrolled,  and since  Lord Henry and his people cleared out the bandits down here, everything is a lot quieter." Ferdinand says with a sense of satisfaction, as if he had cleared the roads himself.

In reply to Sir Ferdinand Ledkno (msg # 39):

Gwair chuckles. "I certainly am glad that everything was cleared by Lord Henry."

"Indeed." Ferdinand agrees, as he finishes his drink.  "Good to see you, young man.  I how everything works out for you down here.  But I need to go and find my daughter now.  Have a good day." and with that he makes his way back towards the nursery corner.

Moved down the thread.

Sir Ferdinand  stops as Adoven approaches him.  "Hello there. I think you must have seen me when I was congratulating the mothers and saying hello to the newborn.  Or maybe back at the big parties in Restov, but I don't think I am related to anyone who lives down here." Ferdinand replies cheerfully.  "Oh, and I spent a few days at Oleg's in the early days of the settlement.  However, I am Ferdinand Ledkno, from Restov."


OOC: I was looking in the wrong place.

Adoven nods. "perhaps I'm remembering you from those days. Is yours a Merchant family, or more a military one?"

"Horses, m'boy.  Horses.  We run the best stud in Restov.  The best trained horses in the region, chosen by all the best people.  Although young Zorah might be able to give us a run for her money when she is set up." Then he relents slightly, "Cavalry.  We all do our time in the cavalry.  What about you?" he says leaning forwards slightly.

Adoven shrugs. "Scout, mostly. i and others have been exploring the outlying areas, dealing with threats and forging alliances. I'm Adoven,  co-owner of V&A shipping. Just opened up a Sword School in the Modern tradition. I am looking to add local offices in Mivon and Restov, so perhaps I might visit your ranch."

"if you wish to, although we are a few miles outside Restov." the knight responds.

Adoven asks "do you also sell draft horses for Heavy loads?"

"Yes.  The best are trained for war, but every animal that we raise is trained for work in the area they are best suited.  So donkeys, mules, draft horse, riding horses, fine palfreys, warhorses -  we have them all."  Sir Ferdinand seems very proud of his family stud.

Sir Ferdinand leaves to join his daughter in the Nursery area, and the crowds start to thin as the party draws to a close.  A slight altercation breaks out between Lex and tansy, two ex-adventures turned traders, and a corpulent man dress in courtiers finery.  However, he smiles, apologizes to smooth things over – and then moves away to chat to someone else.

A group of newcomers, dressed neatly in greens and browns, and looking uncomfortable in the company, kook up – but then return to their quiet conversation as the noise dies down

Andalon is still circulating through the gathering, greeting people he knows and introducing himself to those he doesn't recognise. It is not long before he comes to the group of newcomers who favour the woodland colours of green and brown.

"I don't think we have met before. My name is Andalon de Lebeda. I am a priest of Abadar and Chancellor on the Tusk Town Council. Greetings and welcome to this happy gathering."

"Err.  Hello Sir.  This is a very nice party." One of the men says, stepping forward and making a small bow.  However, it looks somewhat awkward, as if he isn't particularly practice in the art of bowing to nobles.  The others  nod enthusiastically and sketch similarly uncomfortable bows.

"Yes, this is to celebrate the naming day for our three youngest and newest arrivals," he explains. "But perhaps you are even newer arrivals in town. I am sure we can make you welcome. Tell me a little about yourselves, your names, where you are from, what you do for a living, that sort of thing."

Still smiling.

The spokesman twists his hat in his hands, "Duma sent us to build a new village, and Lord Henry has said we should go west from Ironkeep and find somewhere to build out there."

"Well in that case you are certainly very welcome here today," Andalon responds warmly. "Come with me and I will introduce you to some of the folk here and I will see whether there is anyone still here from Iron Keep today. It would be a wonderful opportunity to introduce you to them if you are going to be neighbours."

He will guide them towards the biggest group of friendly faces and start making introductions, hopefully learning the names of the newcomers in the process. He also quietly beckons over one of the people serving as drinks-waiters at the party and arranges for liquid refreshments to be provided.

After a time, Adoven shows up with a warning for Andalon."Amongst the visitors we had today was a corpulent nobleman who apparently is from Pitax.  He claims all these lands belong justly to Pitax.  And he is a Hanspur worshipper as well. He was well-nigh behaved, but there was a small altercation with Tansy before I spoke with him. I do not know if his being here portends anything, but I thought it best brought to your attention."

"The fat man you were talking with? Thank you, I will remember him in case we see him again. Perhaps we should ask someone to keep an eye on him in case he is up to mischief?" Andalon suggests.

"Anyway, while you are here I would like to introduce you to some of our new friends who have joined us here today. Adoven, these are some of Duma's people, who will be starting a new settlement in the Narlemarch Forest west of Iron Keep."

Andalon then takes advantage of the opportunity offered by their unwelcome visitor, by explaining to Duma's people about the laws set out in the Midmarch Charter, that the River Freedoms have no place here, worship of Hanspur is banned because one of his rituals involves drowning an innocent travelling companion, and to guard against potential future attack from the River Kingdoms south of Midmarch. Any contact from the River Kingdoms or Hanspur worshipers should be reported to Midmarch authorities as soon as possible.

The spokesman twists his hat again as he speaks, "No sir!  We are all goodly followers of Old Deadeye.  We are waiting here for Loy, who will be our leader and his good lady Laticia.   She, is a priestess of the Stag God herself, and Loy knows the ways of the forest as well as many.  That is why they were chosen to lead us.  Duma said he made that promise when he spoke to your Lord Henry."

PM

PM

Andalon smiles again.

"Excellent. I shall look forward to meeting Loy and Laticia when they arrive. Please tell them they are welcome to come and introduce themselves to the Tusk Town Council whenever it is convenient for them. We have a number of priests and followers of Erastil already in the smaller settlements around the Narlmarches, so I am sure you will find a warm welcome there too."