Dinner Honoring Nydiam During His Last Days as Clan Leader

From FiranMUX

The Heralds run though the city announcing that the 'Dinner Honoring Clan Leader Nydiam' will be starting in 5 minutes at 'IstaNydiam Palace Dining Room'. For details check out event #5752.

Rislan enters from the hallway outside. Rislan has arrived. Rislan is followed by Savaren. Savaren has arrived. Rislan enters followed by 9 republic guards. Savaren enters followed by 9 republic guards.

Diamia is with her assistants, pointing them here and pointing them there. "No, please place the floral arrangements on the side tables. That's right, good," she tells one fidgety looking servant. The steward announces the princes and the young lady turns, smiling a dimpled smile. "Prince Savaren! Prince Rislan! How nice it is to see you. So glad you could come." *Firan*

Savaren walks in with his brother. Looking a bit tired but happy as it seems the two Brothers actually get to hang out together. HE then looks around the room and hands his helmet off to one of his guards. "Dont cause any problems." He teases them a bit but his guards all salute at once and move off. HE then looks to Diamia and bows his head. "Do you think we could miss it, Lady Proxy. Or should i say soon to be Your Honor." he nods. "I do hope all is well for you?" *Firan*

Yvette enters from the hallway outside. Yvette has arrived. Yvette enters followed by 9 clan guards.

Diamia laughs lightly and shakes her head, the curls that have been left loose going all bouncy. "No 'proxy', no 'you Honor'. I am just my father's daughter tonight," she replies. "This evening is for him after all. And I am sure he would be most amused if you two decided to brawl for tonight entertainment but I will have to ask you to restrain yourselves." Wink, giggle, teehee. "Lady Yvette!" *Firan*

Rislan enters the Dinring room with his brother and bows low to Diamia, "Thank you for opening your home to us Lady Proxy Diamia." he smiles and his nostrils flair, "Whatever is on the menu for tonight smells /wonderful./ I want to tell you how much I have been enjoying these coronation games... I wish now I had planned something like this for Clan Leader Ania...." He turns then to Savaren and considers something, rubbing his chin. *Firan*

Ketria enters from the hallway outside. Ketria has arrived. Ketria enters followed by 2 clan guards.

Savaren elbows his brother. "We may get the rematch tonight after all." He teases a bit and winks back to Diamia. "As you wish Mi'Lady." He then turns to nod to Yvette when she comes in. He looks to Rislan and whispers something. *Firan*

Rislan corrects himself, "Lady Diamia." *Firan*

Nydiam enters from the hallway outside. Nydiam has arrived. Nydiam enters followed by 20 clan guards.

Yvette follows the directions of the cheerful servants and makes her way into the dining room. While still in navy, she seems in good spirits and offers a bright smile for the soon-to-be Clan Leader. Dipping a quick curtsy - she seems a touch excited - both for Diamia and the Princes, she then focuses on the former. "Lady Proxy Diamia...oh by the heavens you look absolutely stunning!" She clasps her hands together and regards the other woman for a moment. "Truly. I can imagine this will be an absolutely wonderful event. Thank you for inviting us all." Quirking a brow, she can't help but laugh. "Heavens, brawling again? You should let yourselves heal a bit, hmm?" *Firan*

Yaffros enters from the hallway outside. Yaffros has arrived. Yaffros is followed by Marsalos. Marsalos has arrived. Yaffros enters followed by 4 body guards. Marsalos enters followed by 4 clan guards. Adan enters from the hallway outside. Adan has arrived. Adan is followed by Arika. Arika has arrived. Adan enters followed by 2 clan guards. Arika enters followed by 2 clan guards.

"I had been planning to have them all along but when the people started to get grumpy about the lack of ceremony of late, I knew I had to step it up a little bit," Diamia answers Rislan as she reaches for Yvette's hand, squeezing it as she pulls her good friend closer. "I am pleased that everyone seems to be enjoying themselves." But wait! Compliments! Dia beams as her cheeks grow a bit pink. "Thank you! It's difficult to live up to your beauty and poise but I feel I must try. Please, everyone take a seat and have some wine." She flutters off to greet some more guests but beelines to Nydiam when she notices his arrival.

Ketria walks inside at a slightly faster pace than is usual for her, smiling in quiet amusement at some private joke. She slows as she enters, though, and glances around. Hearing Yvette, she makes her way toward her cousin, stopping on the way to curtsey politely to Diamia and Nydiam, then again to the Princes as she reaches Yvette.

Savaren chuckles to Yvette. "Mi'Lady, My brother and I strive on fighting with the odds against us." HE smiles. "But tonight is His..." HE then stops and bows to Nydiam when Diamia heads for him. "It is His Honor's night." He then bows to Ketria's curtsey. *Firan*

Nydiam enters with a little smile on his lips. The old man looks paler than usual, and he seems to get winded quickly. Nydiam sneeze loudly and then waves, "Welcome. Weclome, everyone..." He sneezes again, "I am glad to see so many young faces." He looks around for his daughter, and perhaps his place to sit. *Firan*

Rislan turns to Yvette and bows to her, offering her a look of forfending heavens, "I'll have you know that Prince Savaren and I have been well behaved for almost the /entire/ day today." He tucks his helmet beneath his arm and turns then to bow those that enter. An especially low bow for Nydiam as he enters. "Good day Your Honor." *Firan*

Arika steps in with Adan, her hand resting softly on his arm. She looks around slowly and starts to curtsey to all the right people - Nydiam, Diamia, Savaren, Rislan and slight bows are given to the others and a smile is gifted to Ketria and Yvette.

Yvette's smiles only broadens watching her friend in such good spirits. As Diamia bounds off to join up with her father, the Didoron offers the Clan Leader and curtsy. She then turns and catches sight of Ketria...who bounds off and returns. "Lady Cousin, I am glad you came as well. I dashed out of the estate in a bit of a hurry, thinking I might be late. I have a rather interesting law case, actually," is noted cheerfully. Savaren's words make her grin. "Indeed, Your Highness. While I do not mind a good brawl, perhaps they are best held where antique dishes and glassware aren't so present." A wink follows and she then turns to Rislan, laughing. "I know you would never lie to me, dear friend, so I will take your word for it." Arika and Adan are offered a kind smile as well. Whew! Did she get everyone? The expression seems to betray such thoughts. *Firan*

Yaffros precedes Marsalos into the dining room. His toes make their click-click as he enters, his cape flaps, exposing the magenta underside to its black overside. His bodyguards flank him in a goose-like V. Yaffros must always make an entrance. And once it is made, he allots a series of necessary bows of varying depth, depending on the rank of the person, before proceeding toward the table. His bows do deep and pause particularly when made to Diamia and Nydiam.

"Lady Proxy. Your Honor." Adan greets the two guests of honor of the night though he has smiles for all the rest, especially Lady Yvette and the two brothers Elianik. "Shall we find a place to sit, Lady Arika?"

Where is his daughter? Why, right by his side of course! Diamia makes her way to Nydiam and gently takes his arm, nodding toward the head of the table. "Let me get you a glass of wine, father. What would you like?" the young woman asks as she helps him get settled. Despite the smile on her lips and the cheer in her expression, there is no lack of worry in her eyes. Once the clan leader is comfortable though, she dances off to see to the guests. "Lord Iberik, Lord Marsalos, thank you for coming! Lady Ketria, you look lovely. And Lord Adan and Lady Arika! What a wonderful couple you make."

Nydiam smiles and nods to Lady Yvette and Lord Yaffros, "Good to see you, both." Not trying to overlook the vast number of nobles gather he smiles to Adan, Arika and Marsalos. *Firan*

Savaren does smile to Adan when he enters. 'Lord Commander. Is ee you have a lovely Lady upon your arm." He bows his head to Arika. "Mi'Lady." he then looks to his Brother. "I guess we should find a seat." *Firan*

With everyone bobbing and dipping, Marsalos is obliged to do so as well, careful to give each proper courtesy. Like a duck, a fuzzy little duck, he bobs after his father and his guards. Unlike a fuzzy little duck, he frowns slightly as he makes his bows, but he clears the expression for Nydiam, who gets a slightly bemused expression.

Empyrean enters from the hallway outside. Empyrean has arrived. Empyrean enters followed by 2 clan guards and 1 republic guards.

Nydiam follows Diamia, "Oh, I think a glass of wine might be in order." He coughs again, "Hang the healers...well not literally." He looks around to make certain no one is acting capriciously. *Firan*

Arika nods her head to Adan, "Of course." She says to the young noble at her side and follows him towards a table. She motions towards a table, "Is that one suitable?" She asks and then looks to Diamia and smiles softly, "Thank you Lady Proxy." She says with another curtsey and then looks to Savaren and she smiles, giving him a curtsey. Her knees, thank goodness she is young and doesn't have snapping knees. "My Prince." She says *Firan*

Ketria turns toward Yvette as she returns to the dining room, raising an eyebrow as Yvette mentions a case. "Well, I'm glad you made time to attend this event, despite the distraction, Lady Cousin. I would be curious to hear of your case later, if you are willing." Diamia's voice catches her attention and she turns to beam at the soon-to-be-clan-leader. "Lady Proxy Diamia, you are too kind. It is a pleasure to see you again. Lady Proxy, Your Honor, thank you so much for hosting this night," she adds with a smile for Nydiam as well, curtseying once more just for good measure. *Firan*

Rislan nods to Savaren, "Of course brother..." Rislan says, but of course he waits for Diamia to help Nydiam get seat first. The prince make sure to offer a fe wmore bows of Greeting to to Adan and his lovely company, and to Ketria and of course Yaffros and Marsalos. Good turn out. *Firan*

"And I am glad to see you, Clan Leader. Lady Proxy Diamia." With a final, lesser pair of nods, Yaffros takes a chair.

Empyrean comes in late of course. Is being late fashionable? The young Teranzik Lord seems to be escorted inside, or whatever sort of servant to noble system they have for this evening. "I am terribly sorry I am late," he says. "I hope that it is not terribly rude of me," he looks to the Head of the table and then towards Diamia. *Firan*

"Prince Rislan," Yvette remarks kindly. "It seems we both seem to be without our spouses this evening. It is hard being married to such busy people, hmm? Would you mind if I joined you and your brother where ever you might decide to sit," she then wonders. "Unless you are being placed at the head table, of course. How is Her Honor? I've not spoken to her in too long." Nodding a few times to Ketria, her smile remains wide. "It is still in the beginning stages, this case, but I would love to discuss it with you of course." Now she notices the Iberiks, a polite nod offered to both Yaffros and Marsalos - as well as Empyrean when he enters.

Savaren stops and looks as well at the tables and placings. He looks to Rislan.

Rislan smiles to Yvette, "Of course Lady Yvette. It is always my greatest pleasure to share your company." Rislan says as he moves to the Guest Table alongside Yaffros and pulls out a chair for Yvette and his brother. "Will these arrangements do?" *Firan*

Servants are busy, very, very busy. Pulling out chairs, laying napkins across laps, pouring drinks and whatnot. Nydiam gets a tsk from Diamia when he talks about committing violence against healers. "They only do what is best for you. Did they say no wine?" she asks but brings him a glass anyway. Turning to their guests, the Clan Leader's daughter smiles graciously. "Thank you all for coming tonight and joining me in honoring my father. A greater man I do not know." Does Elianos steal ferries and knock out Jalil in one punch? I THINK NOT. Peeking over at Empyrean, she blinks as if slightly surprised and then pats his arm briefly. "You are not late at all."

Ketria follows Yvette's various social cues for the moment, smiling when she smiles and acknowledging newcomers as she does. She, too, nods politely to the Iberiks and to Empyrean, though her eyes rest on the door for a moment or two as if curious to see if anyone else is on their way in. When no one follows Empyrean through the door, her attention returns to the princes and Yvette. "I look forward to it, Lady Cousin," she replies with a smile. As seats are taken, Ketria glances first to the table where Yvette and the Princes will sit, then to the other tables. "I believe I will take a seat with Lady Arika and Lord Adan," she murmurs to Yvette, smiling politely at the small group before she moves away toward the table of her choice. *Firan*

Savaren holds up finger. "I will be right back." He walks over to Diamia and whispers to her. *Firan*

Savaren whispers "Mi'Lady, my brother and I, where would you like us to sit?" *Firan*

Yvette glances at the chair Rislan pulls out and then back at the head table. "How about I sit and you see if perhaps you are placed at the head table, Your Highness," is suggested to Rislan. "I will be alright if your presence is required there." And, it seems, Savaren moves off even as she mentions it. "Oh, of course Lady Cousin," is replied kindly to Ketria, her head bobbing a few times and then finally sitting. *Firan*

Marsalos inclines his head in Yvette's direction when he catches her eye, and then helps his aging and infirm father to a seat. Or maybe he just sits down near him.

Adan takes a seat with his intended at one of the guest tables, nodding towards the head table when he does. "Please, do come join us, Lady Ketria," he remarks. "Have you heard of the beginnings of the military restructuring?" He makes small-talk. *Firan*

You whisper "You and Prince Rislan are more than welcome to sit at the head table with my father and I. But, please, choose a spot wherever you most desire." to Savaren. *Firan*

Empyrean finds himself a table, though not before offering a respectful bow to the Head Table, full of the people whom own this place. This is a different dinner and he finds himself a seat at a table away from the Eagles and everyone else, since he believes himself to have unproper etiquette in showing up a little late. The young Lord even clears his throat and smooths out his own silks before looking at the table and seeing what is going to be served for the evening. Turning his eyes to the head of the table he takes in Nydiam, or rather, the man that Diamia is speaking about when she speaks about great men in the history of this city and this people. Turning his attention back to his own table he offers a weak smile to Yvette, "Lady Didoron, it is lovely to see you tonight. This looks like a wonderful dinner. What are we having?" *Firan*

Savaren nods to Diamia and motions for his brother to come to the Head Table. HE then waits for Rislan before he sits. "Well i guess, i need to be less of a soldier sometimes and learn manners and placings." he teases abit. He then chuckles lightly when he catch's what Adan says.

• Firan*

Yaffros dips his head, acknowleding, toward the princes and toward Yvette after them. But as Savaren does not linger, he slides a subdued, thoughtful smile at Rislan. "Might I echo Lady Yvette. Please feel free to sit at the Head Table, although I am honored you sat by me, however briefly." Oh, and there's his son. Very good. *Firan*

Nydiam chuckles and continues to watch the people pour into the room, "Oh, no, dear. Just ignore the healers. Wine is certainly good for you."

• Firan*

Ketria smiles her thanks to Adan as she takes a seat near him and Arika, her voice growing softer as she joins the conversation taking place at their table. "I have heard only a little, Lord Adan," is audible to the room, the rest is not. *Firan*

Rikon enters from the hallway outside. Rikon has arrived. Rikon enters followed by 2 clan guards.

Yvette leans a bit on the back of her chair and regards both of the Iberiks. "Lord Iberik, Lord Marsalos, perhaps sometime in the coming week we might meet to speak, if that fits either of your schedules," is wondered quietly, delicate brows arching a touch while posing the question. Empyrean's voice tugs her glance and she gives him an equally cheerful smile. "It is wonderful to see you as well, my Lord. We are having..." There's a pause as she again shifts her focus, this time apparently to the tables a food. "Lobster bisque, which smells divine even from here, fish steaks in dill and there also appear to be raspberry glazed cakes," she informs her and glances back. "Quite a spread, as they often say. You are well, I hope? Will you father be attending a bit later? Or do the affairs of the Republic keep him busy, as usual?" *Firan*

Diamia continues to go on and on about how fab and wonderous and totally awesome Nydiam is. And what starts out formal and well-spoken turns a bit more excited and breathless as the young lady enters a little bit into the 'My Dad Could Totally Kick Your Dad's Ass' territory (but not that rude, of course). "And, oh! Oh! Yeah. This one time, he stole a ferry because .. um..." She pauses in her speech and turns to her father, brow furrowed slightly. "Hey, why /did/ you steal that ferry?" All these young'uns, they might not remember the tale. And, by the way, the servants bring out the soup course. Bisque! Mmmmn. *Firan*

At your table, Savaren sits down and relaxs a bit. "Thank you fgor the honor of sitting here with you both." He nods. "I was speaking earlier with Lord Commander Adan and Lord Tarnot, of how the coronation games and Honoring of his Honor Nydiam has been good for the Republic." he chuckles. "Well that and gave my brother and I a chance to fight in front of the crowds." *Firan*

Yaffros turns a fraction in his seat, his expression open and interested and that subdued smile still on his face. "Of course, Lady Yvette. I do not see why that would not be possible. Indeed, I look forward to it already." Yaffros's look toward Marsalos is more automatically confirming than strictly inquisitive and then it is quite distracted. There is bisque. *Firan*

At your table, Rislan instictively rubs the healing cut over his eye at the mention of the fist fight.

At your table, luckily enough, Savarens wound is hidden.

Marsalos puts on a smile for Yvette, dimpling a quick grin at her. "Naturally," he says, not meeting Yaffros' glance at all. "As my Lord Father says--" And he smirks, just a touch, the light brush of irony impossible to resist, "--I look forward to it already." *Firan*

At your table, Diamia giggles at that and pokes Nydiam's shoulder. "It is a shame that you couldn't attend the Battle Royale the other night, father." Catching him up tp speed on the gossip it seems. "Princes Savaren and Rislan were the last two men standing and they took it to fists! Everyone got so excited; the people always enjoy a brawl." *Firan*

Admitted into the Dining Room by the guards, Rikon is polite enough to remove both mask and helmet for the sake of appearances. It seems that he opts to keep his armor on for the occasion, though nobody would ever harm him here. Would they? Dark and wordless, he nonetheless sports a small smile as he surveys each of the tables in turn. Oh look, there is a table all by its lonesome. The Lord Istabannos sits there.

Empyrean likes the selection from the menu already and Diamia of course speaking so wonderfully of her father. The young Lord keeps an ear out for this story, but when there is talk of his own father, he briefly replies to Yvette, "No, my father will likely not be attending tonight. It is hard for him to even attend his own family's dinner." Which is the truth of course. "I never knew the Ferry had been stolen for real, I thought that was a clever little game." Proper and the what not as he speaks. Everything delivered with a calm expression on his hardly changing face. The Teranzik turns that fantastic gaze towards the front. "Your Honour, why did you steal a Ferry?!" He wants to hear this part of the oldster's story. *Firan*

Ketria smiles politely to the servers as they come around with dishes and drinks. She splits her attention neatly between the conversation at her table and the fascinating stories being told at the head table, occasionally glancing over toward the door, as if she expected to see someone who is has not yet arrived.

At your table, Diamia hrms as she sees Rikon sits with some no-name neos from goodness knows where. Leaning in, she whispers quickly to Nydiam.

You whisper "Father, may I ask Lord Rikon to come sit with us? He has been so helpful to me and I hate seeing him off with .. who is that? I don't even know. What a large nose that woman has." to Nydiam. *Firan*

At your table, Rislan nods to Diamia and then to Nydiam, "I hope that we did you proud your Honor.. I've heard stories from my sponsoree Mes Dianora, that you are one of the republic's rowdiest brawlers yourself and that you left the Glassworks a shambles on more than one occasion."

• Firan*

Adan smiles as the stories go on, speaking quietly at his table, but trailing off when the speech goes in full swing. He notes his brother's entrance, and attempts to make eye contact and gesture him over. He fails in that as Rikon goes Emo Table.

Yvette can't help but smile at both Yaffros and Marsalos' words. "Lovely, lovely indeed. I rather look forward to it as well," she murmurs in a genuine tone and then leaves the Eagle noblemen to have their meal. She watches Rikon make his entrance and take a seat at a nearby table, though doesn't stare or anything impolite. Instead, she takes her napkin and places it on her lap while listening to Empyrean. "Of course," seems a reply to the absence of Taleo. "I can only imagine his schedule." Her eyes then widen and she bobs her head again. "It is a true story indeed," she half-whispers. "Though the details of it I'm not familiar," is admitted and she turns to glance back at the head table again, expression curious. *Firan*

Nydiam turns to the crowds, "Well, it seemed like the thing to do at the time, Diamia." He pauses and then goes on, "It was a warm evening, and I was deftly navigating the streets of Sarkaran with my keen sense of wine filled direction. I arrived to the dock where the ferry was attached. It was at that time, that I decided that I wanted to go to Lurashar to meet up with an old friend. One thing lead to another...Next thing I know, I am shoving the ferryman off into the river and throwing off the ropes. I was drifting away down the river. After about half-hour or so, the entire city seemed to be trying to rescue me. Luckily for me, I found a bottle of wine on the ferry - some of the ferryman's special vintage...I watched amused as various people were attempting to land a griffon on the ferry to 'rescue' me. Really, though, I have never seen so much trouble. Well, it was clear that I was never going to make it to Lurashar with all that bother; so, I climbed on the griffon...When I touched the ground again, Lady Ibania pretty much made me a "guest" of Sarkaran. *Firan*

At your table, Nydiam smiles to Diamia, "Brawling between Elianiks is a very natural thing. I have knocked heads with all of them." He begins to cough and then takes a drink. *Firan*

At your table, Nydiam grins, "I am very proud of you." *Firan*

Savaren looks as people call fro the story from Nydiam. He nods to rikon as he goes to the table off to the side. HE then waves off the wine and points to the whiskey and enjoys it as he looks to Nydiam.

"Wonderful," Yaffros says, and it apparently must serve a dual purpose. For the first appears to be in relation to Yvette, but then he must immediately repeat himself. "Wonderful. Perfect." This toward the bisque, which Yaffros is making a point of savoring. But then, although the ferry story is not new to him, he must listen to Nydiam's retelling with a faint reminescing smile. Old days.

At your table, Rislan nods to Diamia then and smiles, "Hear that Lady Diamia... I guess that means next time Savaren and I start a brawl it'd be traditional for you to attempt to jump in and waylay us." *Firan*

At your table, Savaren watch's Nydiam a bit. "I wish i would of known, i would of asked to hear about it, or asked to train with you, your Honor." He then glances to Diamia as Nydiam coughs. HE then smiles a bit. "There is also another thing the Cockatrice clan should be proud of. Two of your clan have been chosen to be the Executive officers in the new Divisions headed by myself and Prince Zaridos." He then laughs a bit. "Well i always worried she had a vicious uppercut." *Firan*

Empyrean listens to the tale of the stealing of the Ferry. "Luckily there was wine aboard." Landing a griffon on the Ferry? That would be laughable. He does chuckle at the funnier parts of the story as he enjoys a glass of wine. Out of the corner of his vision he sees Lord Rikon sitting alone. Empyrean says, "Lord Rikon, come join me and Lady Didoron," he invites him over with a small wave. There will be plenty of drinks served at this table and he will fill his chatter up quietly to said table. His eyes dart to the door when he sees another noble arrive, and then looks towards Ketria for a moment. Perhaps something to do with a recent announcement. "Do you think Lady Diamia will have tales of getting so drunk she stole a Ferry? Those are the real stories behind Anarinuell." *Firan*

At your table, Diamia snorts slightly but has a decided grin upon her face as she reaches for her wine. "I make a habit of not jumping in anywhere where fists are flying, Your Highness," she replies and then sits up a bit straighter when Nydiam relays how proud he is of her. Beam! The news of military appointments catch her attention though and she leans forward slightly. "Oh? Who has been chosen?" *Firan*

Galadra enters from the hallway outside. Galadra has arrived.

Ketria listens to Nydiam's story with a mix of fascination, amusement and disbelief, laughing softly. Movement at the door catches her attention as well, and she smiles warmly at Rodiste and Galadra as the two enter within minutes of each other. She turns in her seat to face the door more squarely, trying to catch Rodiste's attention subtly without interrupting the story-telling at the head table as she beckons the young man over to the table she shares with Adan and Arika.

A smirk of a decidedly mischievous curls up a corner of Yvette's mouth, though she schools it quickly enough. "Amazing. Irresponsible, but also quite a wonderful tale," is said simply, but it may be apparent she is more amused than she might wish to admit. Turning to Empyrean, she grins. "If that is not recorded in the library...and I will be checking tomorrow, I believe...it should be added, don't you think," is wondered of the young lord. When he invited Rikon, Yvette turns to look at the Istabannos again while bobbing her head. "Yes, do please join us," she echoes kindly. Rodiste's entrance is met with affectionate smile and she immediately glances toward Ketria, grinning. Focus back to Empyrean, her lips wrinkle. "I do not think the Lady Proxy will get drunk and steal a Ferry," she replies with a shake of her head. "Were she to do something extraordinary, it would be unique. Perhaps an Eagle navy ship. Or the city of Lurashar for a day instead."

Actually, despite all unspoken references to 'emo,' Rikon simply doesn't barge over and sit at occupied tables without an invitation. It is a manner deeply ingrained from childhood, and a trait that he will not give up easily. Thus, upon Lord Empyrean's greeting and invitation he readily obliges. The lone table is left behind gladly and the new one is joined. To Nydiam's tale of daring he comments not at all to those present, instead murmuring softly upon seating himself next to Empyrean and Yvette.

Arika laughs softly at the story, having enjoyed it and claps lightly.

Adan chuckles softly and nods his head at the tale. He shakes his head, as if in disbelief, but he remarks quietly to those at his table instead.

At your table, Savaren smiles and nods. "Lord Rikon was chosen by Prince General Zaridos." HE seems not all to happy by this. "I then, cause he has been served by my side in the infantry,chose Lord Adan." He nods.

• Firan*

Galadra finally emerges from her hole, and makes an appearance at Nydiam's dinner, finding that it would be very appropriate to do so. She comes without any little ladies or lordlings, carrying only herself today. The newly-ordained Gold Dragon woman curtsies to the Head Table and then goes to find a seat not really taking much preference as to which party she joins.

Diamia, catching something that Empyrean has said, pauses in her conversation to look over at him. "I will certainly /not/ be getting drunk and stealing ferries," she retorts with a laugh. Tilting her head, she considers her father a moment and then announces: "After all, that has been done already and much more handily than I could ever hope to do. I will just have to come up with something else, I suppose!" She lifts her glass and then takes a sip. *Firan*

With his usual WHOOSH of energy; Lord Centurion Rodiste N'Gato is shown through the IstaNydiam Palace and into the dining room to whose occupants he his patented half-cocked grin. "The First." is his explanation for being rather late and with that the eldest N'Gato of Rodellos and Yolette glances around the dining room with his dark eyes in a slow calculated manner before coming to rest on Diamia and Nydiam; to whom he offers a low and gracious bow. "My Lord and Lady." Rodiste then stands up straight and takes a breath of air through his nose... perhaps smelling the some food somewhere, no?

At your table, Diamia's eyebrows lift a little bit. "Lord Adan? Really?" She looks over at her cousin and then back to Savaren. "A surprising choice, I would think. But I am sure he will serve you well." The young lady doesn't seem eeeeentirely confident on this point but she smiles encouragingly all the same. *Firan*

Nydiam smiles and begins to enjoy himself a little, "A little larceny is healthy for the soul." He looks around, "But nothing from my house. Who here has a tell of great larceny to share with us?!" *Firan*

Empyrean offers a slight chuckle, just a little one as he retorts to Diamia. "Something can be arranged, given time." Empyrean is all about plans that have horrible consequences and usually end up rather fun. He picked up a little something with the Ticanee. "Something can always be arranged." When Rodiste offers his entrance, Empyrean finds it a good time to listen to the table and then raise his glass a little in a small toast. *Firan*

Adan chuckles softly and tilts his head upwards, when a tale of larceny is asked for. "Your Honor, if I may?" asks the younger IstaBannos, coming to his feet. *Firan*

Nydiam gestures to Adan, "You have the floor, Lord Adan." *Firan*

Savaren goes quiet from his little conversation at the table and turns to hear what Adan has to say with as bit of curiosity.

Oh yes! Lots of food, yummy food! Everyone is being served the first course -- lobster bisque, it seems -- and the servants immediately bring Rodiste some wine to sip while he ponders where to sit. Diamia smiles to him and offers a little wave; such a casual gesture for an honorary dinner but the Trice do things a bit differently. When Adan speaks up to offer a story, her attention immediately goes to him. Curious.

Ketria watches Rodiste make his entrance, glancing away for just long enough to return Yvette's grin with a happy smile. She turns her head from side to side as she attempts to keep track of both the conversation at her table and the blossoming story-telling session taking place as well. As Adan takes the floor she watches him politely, curious to hear his story.

Rodiste smiles and doesn't seem alarmed at all and instead turns on a heel and starts heading towards the table that Ketria is sitting at; already having picked that one out upon entering the room. His warm yet strangely dark blue eyes pass across the following tables in front of him with well met nods of greeting going to those he makes eye-contact with and soon he is pulling out the chair at guest table 3 and seating himself in a chair.

Adan takes his glass and glances around. "Well," he says. "When I was a boy in Shamibel, I was occasionally given leave to go about unattended. And, in the course of my wanderings, I managed to -- enter, let us say, a house in the city." He clears his throat with a sip of wine. "While there, I uncovered a small gold medal. As it turned out, it was the foot grace gold medal for the /19/ A.U Olympics. Now, don't ask me how it got there, but I hung onto it ever since that day. When I had returned to the city, I sought to find out just whose it was. With the help of the good Lady Yvette." And here, the Lady Didoron is indicated. "I discovered it belonged to no other than His Honor Belik IstaBelik." He smiles. "I'm pleased to say it has been reunited with its family. I returned to to his Honor Amenik IstaBelik at Open Throne Hours some months ago." *Firan*

Savaren nods when he hears the story. "Ah i remember that. I was there when he returned it." he nods. *Firan*

Yvette, too, lifts her glass and then sips from it before murmuring something quiet. Her attention flicks to Adan as he tells his tale, a smile on her lips.

Marsalos' approval of the story comes on a soft laugh, and a single word lifted louder over the quiet conversation between himself and his father (a conversation which nicely pauses as Adan tells his tale): "Resourceful." *Firan* Empyrean listens to Adan's tale and offers a polite clap. "Wonderful Lord Istabannos. What a charming coincidence and what an honour to be able to present that." There are Hydrans present, or his words would be a little different. *Firan*

Diamia listens to Adan's story with interest, sipping at her wine as he tells a tale of Shamibel and and returned medals. When the story concludes, she puts down her glass and applauds him lightly. "Well, it wasn't a ferry," she says with a smile. "But I am sure the Hydra were delighted with your find. How nice of you to return it." *Firan*

Nydiam pats Diamia's arm and then asks Adan, "Oh. Splendid! Larceny! It should be a theme for an annual ball." He laughs, "Who else? A tale of larceny or other mischief?" *Firan*

Ketria smiles at Adan, nodding approval. "What a coincidence, finding something so important to our city so far away," she notes. "And I can't say I'm the least bit surprised to hear that Lady Yvette helped track down the owner," she adds with a smile for her cousin. *Firan*

Rodiste grins as he looks from Ketria to Adan and listens as the the man tells his tale. He chuckles at the ending and nods with approval to Adan. "And I know they appreciate it back in their rightful hands, Lord Adan. Well met." Rodiste then turns to a servant to whisper something quietly to her. The Hydran looks into the servants eyes and nods when she furrows a brow slightly and he then makes a motion with his right hand that would suggest he was looking for a larger glass. The girl nods obediantly and fetches his order of wolfsbend whiskey in a cup; delivering it a couple of moments later with a quick curtsie and says, "Just as you ordered m'lord." *Firan*

"Nothing, I assure you, Lady Proxy, is the ferry. But we strive to meet your father's high standards, the best we can." Adan then retakes his seat, to see if anyone else has a story.

Diamia leans close to her father and points across the room at Empyrean. It's impolite to point! Well, she doesn't care! Whee! "He has a mischievious look about him," she says. "I bet he has many tales to tell." *Firan*

Yvette can't help but laugh a little and perhaps even blush slightly at Ketria's words. "You are too kind, Lady Cousin," she replies and returns the smile. She then hesitates a bit, biting her lower lip before noticing Diamia pointing toward their table. Empyrean, specifically. "If he has no tale, which I am sure he does, I might have one. Though it is from childhood and perhaps not terribly mischievous." Really? From the one who spent most days in the library and out of the sunshine. Shocking. *Firan*

At your table, Rislan rubs his chin, "I'm sorry your Honor.. I'm afraid I don't have any good larcenry stories... I'm afraid I've not been living life to it's fullest *Firan*

At your table, Nydiam looks at Rislan, "Well, son, you will have to get started." He slaps the table, "I am certain one of your cousins could help." *Firan*

At your table, Diamia is a good girl and doesn't steal things. However, she does admit -- now that there is a room full of people to keep Nydiam from spanking her: "When I was younger, I stole some of your best wine and drank it all." *Firan*

At your table, Nydiam looks at Diamia a bit shocked, "That was you?!"

• Firan*

At your table, Savaren chuckles. "Unfortunately I do not have the time for mischief anymore." He says simply. "I guess you and I brother will need to come up with something." He then chuckles. "You did, Mi'Lady?"

• Firan*

Yaffros makes a noise half back in his throat, a near laugh. "After Lady Yvette Didoron has given hers, I may have a slight one to share. Although it will not be new to Clan Leader Nydiam." *Firan*

At your table, Diamia coughs and blushes and scooches down in her seat a wee bit. "I think Banian took some as well!" she quickly adds. That Banian. Always good for throwing under the bus. *Firan*

Nydiam gestures to Lady Yvette, "Please. Share with us all." He begins to cough. *Firan*

Empyrean glances upwards as Diamia points right at him and then exclaims to the room that he must have good tales because he has a mischevious look about him. "Tales? Me? Well, hardly. I have not been in adulthood too long. And who would want to hear of my childhood?" Yvette to the rescue and Nydiam tells her to proceed. Wonderful. He drinks more wine.

• Firan*

Rodiste stands up a bit at his table and leans across it to give Adan a good hearty shake of the mans hands with both of his. There are some warm words from the Hydran before he sits back down and starts talking to them all at their table. When he finishes talking, Rodiste lifts up a drink in toast to everyone at his table and takes a good hearty drink.

Yvette stands and inclines her head to Nydiam. "Thank you, Your Honor," is offered respectfully first. "Prince Zaridos..." There's a pause and she glances to Diamia with a slight grin. "Well, even as a child he was known for trouble. Though he never pulled me into such capers. Once, though, he asked me to meet him and bring my paint supplies," is explained as she rolls her eyes and grins at the memory. "Of course I thought nothing of it. What harm could be done with paint? We then met Lady Juneva, still before her Ceremony as well. She lead us to the Corinala barn and we spent the afternoon painting all of the royal cows. Mine, of course, had a set of gold jewelry with sapphires, though the blue and yellow ran so terribly together." She even follows this with a small sigh, head shaking. "Lady Luna nearly caught us all, but we ran and managed to allude the guards. To this day...to this moment, in fact, no one knew who had done it." She makes a little curtsy, tale finished, and retakes her seat. *Firan*

Ketria looks rather pleased to hear Yvette tell this story, and a little proud as she finishes. She, it seems, has heard the story before. Still, knowing the story already does not keep her from giggling at the retelling, and she raises a glass in acknowledgment of Yvette's storytelling. "Perhaps this entire night's stories should be put to scroll," she suggests with a chuckle. *Firan*

Diamia facepalms. Ooh, that Zaridos! Corruptor of good young ladies! One can almost imagine Diamia shaking her fist and stamping her foot. But she does giggle a little bit. Come on, painted cows? That's funny. Adan chuckles softly and nods his head to Yvette, in appreciation of her tale.

Empyrean claps at Yvette's tale, grinning near the end at them actually managing to escape the guards.

Yaffros laughs. "Very daring! Not only a storytelling, but an outright admission! Stories are always best told for the first time." *Firan*

Marsalos somehow has no trouble seeing Zaridos getting people into near-trouble. /Somehow/. He shakes his head with a very slight smile.

Yvette speaks quietly a moment and then takes a bit more wine before glancing up. "Truly, Prince Zaridos isn't completely to blame," she begins. Ever the champion of the prince often called 'Little Nydiam' no less. Her cheeks betray color and she inclines her head again. "Just...please no one mention that to Her Honor Luna. I imagine she would have more sway and a harsher punishment these days." Chuckling a little, her eyes widen at Ketria's words. "What a lovely idea, Lady Cousin! A recording of the dinner as a whole, perhaps. Unless anyone would mind?" *Firan*

Diamia leans back in her chair as the second course is served -- mmmn, fish steaks in dill sauce -- and nods to Ketria and Yvette. "I think that is a wonderful idea," she replies, laying her hand over Nydiam's wrinkly, liver-spotted one. Pat-pat. "Lord Iberik!" the young lady calls. "You said you had a story, yes?" *Firan* Wrinkles appear around Rodiste's button nose and at the corners of his dark blue eyes as he looks up from his table and starts to laugh a bit at Lady Yvette's tale. Rodiste is grinning mischievously when he raises up his cup of whiskey in salute of the story. He looks back to Ketria and takes a gulp from his drink. Nydiam laughs, "Painted the Royal Cows? Excellent. Well played! I have a feeling that there might be a bit of a sport in the coming days." He laughs even harder. *Firan*

Savaren leans back and places a finger to his lips as he listens to the stories.

Looking pleased at the approval of her idea, Ketria offers a second suggestion to Yvette. "Perhaps it could be given in the form of a puzzle? No true names given, or perhaps just a first initial? That way no one need fear the consequences of a story told, and future generations could read the scroll and wonder who it was who painted all the cows, or performed any other daring acts we may hear of tonight?" She turns to smile at Rodiste, then looks back toward the Iberik lord, curious to hear his tale of larceny as well.

Rodiste says "I certainly don't. I think it's a great idea." *Firan*

"Never, Lady Yvette. Who could dream of mentioning?" At this, Yaffros straightens into mock-stiff oration, while his hand fiddles with the base of glass. "And I did, Lady Proxy. Now, I shall tell. If you have ever been to the Temple of Zin, you may have seen a certain surprisingly life-like statue. That is Lord Banik. A little strange in the head -- we might say completely mad. Before he was a statue, he was one of Zin's initiates, but the kind of initiate that suddenly converts to his own crazed kind of monotheism and challenges Zutiv. Needless to say, Zutiv didn't take well to the slight and transformed Banik into that gold statue you see in Zin's temple. But it wasn't always there. Originally, it stood in the temple of Zutiv. As a young man, I stole it and, shall we say, dropped it in Zin's pool." Yaffros lifts his glass to take a sip of wine. "Mmmn. Stayed there a while, too. Until then Lord Nydiam and Lady Zeysani and Prince Solgarik fished it out. Alas."

Ildria enters from the hallway outside. Ildria has arrived.

Ketria shivers a little at the mention of Zin's pool, remembering the unnerving feeling of being sucked down into it and reappearing in parts unknown. Still, she regains her composure quickly and smiles. "A brave exploit indeed, Lord Iberik. Though why was the statue not returned to Lord Zutiv's temple?" she asks, curious. *Firan*

Ahhh. Uncle Banik. Ol' crazy Uncle Banik. Diamia turns to her tablemates and quietly adds: "He was statued twice, you know." Such a splendid pedigree she has!

"Yes. Future generations could wonder just who dropped the statue--" Marsalos can't bring himself to quite echo Ketria's words in any serious manner after Yaffros' tale. He just looks generally pinched of expression, sandaled feet shuffling beneath the table. "Alas," he says weakly, and finally snorts a laugh. "Twice?" he asks Diamia, all disingenuous curiosity.

Empyrean listens to Yaffros' tale with most of his attention. He is focused on this statue, the challenge of the gods, then Yaffrosof stealing it. "Lord Nydiam had to fish it out?" Now that's something new. There's a character in the tale that is right here. "Well done though, and were you drunk too Lord Yaffros?" There has to be a common theme to all these tales, and in the first one, Nydiam was pretty hammered. *Firan*

Rikon lets out a breath, shaking his head at mention of Banik.

Nydiam shakes his head, "Ah. Banik Istabannos. I wonder what he would say if he were not statue. I remember that well." He looks to Ketria, "I think Zin negotiated with Zutiv to keep him in his temple. The Gods are interesting. I have met most of them." *Firan*

As some blood rushes to his face from the alcohol; Rodiste glances from Ketria to Yaffros and quietly listens for the answer.

Yvette taps at the center of her lips and nearly beams a smile back at Ketria. "A brilliant idea, Lady Cousin," she notes to the younger Didoron and seems to commit the idea to memory. Oh. Lady Ildria. That charming smile remains and settles on her older cousin for a moment. But! Yaffros' tale takes her attention and she places a hand over the 'O' shape her mouth makes. "By the heavens," is murmured, she apparently both shocked and yet humored by the tale. *Firan*

"I don't recall being drunk, but it's such second nature to us Eagles." Yaffros lifts his glass high and nods to Nydiam, briskly. "And Banik was an odd situation in many ways. He returned to flesh for a short time and -- back to statue he goes."

Ketria's eyes go wide at Nydiam's answer and she nods, apparently impressed into silence. Her manners reassert themselves, though, and she replies after a moment, "Thank you for the answer, Your Honor." She turns to smile at Yvette, pleased to have her suggestions so well received. Yvette's greeting of Ildria catches her attention and she turns to smile at her sister. "Lady Sister, it is good to see you," she calls softly. *Firan*

Laytania enters from the hallway outside. Laytania has arrived. Laytania enters followed by 10 clan guards and 5 republic guards.

Adan smiles slightly as Ildria enters, greeting with her with a nod. But he then falls into an interested listening pose at the various conversations swirling about him.

Taleo enters from the hallway outside. Taleo has arrived. Taleo enters followed by 15 republic guards.

Laytania is quite late, but hey, better late than never. Giving an apologetic smile - especially to those at the head table - she searches for a place to sit.

Diamia pauses, a forkful of fish half-way to her mouth. "I know you had met some, daddy," -- pause, blush, um -- "I mean, father. But almost all? Goodness. What.. what was that like?" Despite reportedly having a God for a great-grandfather, Dia seems not to have met one yet. *Firan*

Empyrean looks up a little from his table with Yvette and Rikon. "Now see? If you want to hear a tale, there is a man to tell one." At Nydiam's little dinner. He looks to Taleo as he arrives and then looks at his table companions, "So far we have heard of stealing the ferry, and the statue theft by Lord Iberik, with cow paintings and Lord Adan's rescuing of a gold medal." A small summary perhaps. *Firan*

It is hard to not notice the Princess, nevermind the Lord Viceroy. Tilting her head to the side a bit, Yvette's smile remains wide and cheerful. Grinning at Empyrean, she says, "It seems he made room in his schedule after all," kindly. "Princess Laytania, you may join us if you'd like, though I suspect you might be placed at the head table with the princes," is remarked. "It is good to see you!" That said, her focus returns to Taleo. "Indeed, Lord Viceroy. Perhaps you can get caught up and share a tale of mischief?" Nothing like jumping the man upon his entrance.

Nydiam smirks to Diamia, "Well, most of the time, it is was under dire circumstances. On a few occassions it was pleasant. I must admit that they did talking. I highly encourage meeting one sometime. Perhaps, your grandfather will look in on your ceremony tomorrow." *Firan*

Wearing the Ranivor's medallion, Taleo makes his way through the doors of the palace's dining room. By the look of it he has not been here before, his glances come around the room before he picks out the familiar faces among the crowd. As Empyrean speaks, a brief smile spreads over Taleo's dark features and he heads toward Empyrean and his table-guests. "We are telling stories?" he asks more quietly, not to interrupt the event.

Diamia motions for Laytania and Taleo to join them at the head table. If they wanna. If they don't, they don't have to. Like ... hey, some wine! Sip!

Savaren snaps out of his thought for a momment to bow his head to Laytania and Taleo. "Princees, Lord Viceroy." He greets and then gets another drink and moves to get a bit more relaxed. *Firan*

Galadra has mischief in her description. But, she isn't going to share any since most of them have to do with things that probably shouldn't be repeated. So the new Gold Dragon woman sits back instead and enjoys listening to the others.

Nydiam offers a brief wave to Taleo, "Finally someone here older than I am. Good evening, Viceroy. Have a seat and a drink. We are just reflecting on the days of yore." *Firan*

Ketria bows her head in a graceful greeting as Laytania and Taleo enter the room, glancing around to see who might tell the next story.

Laytania grins at Yvette, waving excitedly and appreciatively. "It's good to see you too! We need to meet again for tea very soon." At Diamia's offer, she smiles gratefully and settles into a seat. "I apologize for not arriving sooner, Lady Diamia. It's good to see you again, your Honor," she greets Nydiam. *Firan*

Rislan bows his head to Taleo as he arrives. Point of fact Rislan is more listening to stories than telling them. The problem with being the relatively well behaved prince.. you don't have good stories for dinners like this.

Rodiste listens to the tales around the room and takes a small portion of the fish in dill sauce. He nods in approval as inhales deeply over the dish. "I'll tell you what..." he comments loudly to those at his table after taking his first bite, "This is so perfectly warrior friendly; I need to eat it more." and with that continues eating with a pleased look on his face. *Firan*

Marsalos tells no stories either, perhaaaps for the same reason as Galadra. Instead, he gives Laytania and Taleo proper greetings, head lowering as others do. Totally almost the same thing.

"I hope so," Diamia replies to Nydiam, sitting up even straighter than straight. "I have been praying to him quite a bit and told him that we was invited if he wanted to come. Do you think that is presumptuous? To invite a God?" Redirecting her attention to Taleo, her smile brightens and her dimples deepen. "Thank you so much for coming, Lord Viceroy. I know you must have a story or two to share?" When Laytania sits down, the Cockatrice woman crinkles her nose cutely at her friend, doing that finger wave thing. Yo!

Yvette bobs her head to Taleo a few times. "We are, Lord Viceroy. Ones of mischief or more," she replies simply. "His Honor told of stealing the ferry and Lord Iberik shared his tale of stealing the statue of Lord Banik." She conveniently does not mention her own little dip into the area of bad deeds. "Would you honor us with one as well, perhaps," is wondered, echoing Diamia, and she glances around the room, brows arched. "I'm sure we are not the only ones curious as to what sort of mischief you may have had in your day. Or even recently!" *Firan*

"My apologies for being late," Taleo regards as he gives Empyrean's chair a tap. "Matters of state security, too be sure." At the invitation to the head of the table, he bows, "I would be glad to sit. And tell a story. A tale of the past?" Taleo heads toward Nydiam's table, but he doesn't yet sit down. As Yvette further encourages, he chuckles, "Mischief. Well... I gather many of my stories.. if people were to believe gossip.. are not to be shared before polite company and especially not before noble women... however! I am sure there's a story that can be shared." Erm. The player thinks!

Like a few others, Ildria is late. She offers smiles here and there, in return to the looks tossed her way, and moves to take a seat. Ink-stained hands smooth over the silk of her stola as she nears Ketria's table. "Lady Sister," she offers quietly, before settling down to listen, having missed much already.

Savaren raises an eyebrow at the statement of state security. HE then smiles a bit as he waits for Taleo to tell a story, and listens to one of his guards as he whispers something to him.

Nydiam smiles to Diamia, "It is always polite to invite your family to such occassions, dear. It might be an insult not to...Why do you think the Kraken came to visit?" *Firan*

Adan glances among those as they discuss meeting the gods, idly interested, perhaps.

Nydiam nods to Taleo and shrugs. He slides over a glass of wine to the man and takes another drink, "Now, where were we?" *Firan*

Kael enters from the hallway outside. Kael has arrived. Kael enters followed by 2 clan guards.

"Ah, Krakens!" Taleo remarks. "This is not a long story. Many years ago I had a thought. A particular Kraken had taken an interest in Clan Leader Nydiam's marriage to Lady Lucretia, and in fact it ... well.. showed displeasure when uninvited? Clan Leader Nydiam can tell that story. However. I heard of how large and capable this creature of Zutiv was, and how it could easily swim down the river. What thought had I? The military, of course. I created the Kraken Intelligence Agency, the KIA... I believe that's what we called them. They themselves were responsible for trying to get the Kraken to come out from hiding and help us out in war! The Kraken would have made a mighty ally, and so these soldiers undertook their task. The K.I.A. They learned that the Kraken enjoyed a pie... cherry pie perhaps? And so they hired all these children to collect ingredients and had hired all these cooks to make pie! And they did. They made ten-thousand pies to start, and thousands more, and they placed the pies by the river. The attempt proved rather unsuccessful, and after a while we concluded that it was probably not going to work... however! Many years later I met one of the cooks that baked the pie, and she nearly went green when she saw me, for she knew I was indirectly responsible for her hatred of pie." A pause. "The end."

Galadra looks up as a messenger calls for her, and after excusing herself from her table, she leaves the dinner party so she doesn't interrupt.

Laytania returns Diama's little nose-wrinkle, smoothing out the fabric of her clothing as she sits. Her lips twitch into an amused little smile at Taleo's story. "Goodness, I imagine that would make me despise cherry pie too. As a messenger peeks inside for her, her brow furrows in annoyance, and she promptly waves him off temporarily with a flick of her wrist. *Firan*

Kael enters and leaves his javelin with a guard. The little lordling tosses some of his long curly hair over a shoulder and goes to join his brother Rodiste, trying to contain excitement.

Yvette listens and the smirk that tugs the corner of her mouth only inches up more and more as the story unfolds. The mention of the cook, however, bring a true laugh from her lips and she shakes her head. "I have heard and read many tales of the Kraken, though not that one, I don't believe," she says, tone still as cheerful as ever. "Well told, Lord Viceroy! Thank you for sharing it." She makes another small mental note, one of many during the evening. *Firan*

Ketria laughs softly, nodding agreement to Diamia's comment. "I'd imagine simply /being/ a cook could make me tired of the more common delicacies...it must be even worse, being hired to make so many," she exclaims with a smile. *Firan*

Nydiam chuckles to Taleo and points out to Diamia, "You should really invite your family to important ceremonies." *Firan*

Rodiste has just stood up to greet Ildria and once he takes his seat; looks towards the head table to listen to Taleo's story. He spies his little brother enter when Galadra leaves and with a nod towards him; motions for Kael to come sit next to him before looking back to Taleo and listening with a smile.

Taleo does then take a seat at the table. Hearing silence, as it is loud, he goes on a little longer, "There are many great men in the Republic. Clan Leader Nydiam is among those. Him and I have been allies, have fought wars against one another, have yelled insults at Clan Council tables. We've confided in matters of grave importance. We share a friendship. I don't think I have any relationship as dynamic, or as unchanging." To Nydiam he does lift a glass, "May you have many years to go still, and may your daughter do well in your place." *Firan*

Diamia nods to her father, all dutiful and stuff. "Well, like I said, I have been praying to him quite a bit. Hopefully he heard them and will bless the ceremony with his presence. Oh," The cakes are being served. YAY! "Cake!" Careful not to speak with her mouth full, she asks: "Anyone else have a story? Please share!" *Firan*

A guard tugs Yvette's attention and she leans over to hear whatever was apparently important enough to disturb her with. Offering him a simple nod, she finishes her wine and offers a quiet apology to Empyrean and Rikon, her table mates. Standing then, she makes her way to the head table and dips her head. "Please do forgive me and know that I regret this, but I must go see to something back at the estate," is remarked, her tone genuinely regretful. "This evening has been...wonderful. One of the most enlightening and fun that I've ever been honored to attend. Thank you, Lady Proxy, Your Honor, for the kind hospitality. If you will please pardon me."

Savaren looks to the doors and nods. 'If you will excuse me for a second." He stands up an goes to take a few messengers. *Firan*

Kael goes up to the third guest table and slides into a chair next to his brother, grinning now. He mumbles something to the older N'Gato.

Savaren walks back in and sits. "Sorry about that." he then relaxs and see's where the conversation is. *Firan*

Diamia pulls in a breath and listens to Taleo's kind words for her father. The young lady's eyes even grow a bit moist and, without a word, lifts her glass as well. Even though she doesn't speak, what she does do is lean over and give Nydiam a little kiss on the cheek.

Nydiam raises his glass, "Ooooh." He smiles and drinks, "Thank you, Taleo. It has been a honor to have share the battlefield with and against you. I hope soon will be having this same celebration for your retirement. The Republic is at a turning point. All of the disarray caused by the departure of our beloved heroes is slowly being brought to order. Thank you, Taleo, for helping us get there." *Firan*

Rodiste listens to Taleo speak and once he finishes; lifts his own glass towards the head table and calls out. "Here, here." in referance to his praise of both Nydiam and Diamia.

Adan smiles as the old leaders toast one another, nodding his head slightly. "Here, here," he says, perhaps a bit softer, but present nonetheless. *Firan*

Ketria smiles at the discourse between Taleo and Nydiam, raising her glass as well. "Here, here," she echoes softly. *Firan*

Laytania will certainly drink to that. She lifts her glass as well, looking from Diamia to Nydiam - awww. She sniffles a little, but only the tiniest itty bitty bit.

Far be it from Marsalos to follow the trends set by a Hydra Lord. Rather than add his own 'here, here' he lifts his wine glass to the head table in careful silence.

Yaffros has refilled his glass and lifts it in silent appreciation -- simultaneous with his son. Bother.

"As to you Nydiam." Taleo bows his head in respect, and has the glass of wine. "I look forward to the day where the Republic is ruled once more by a Ranivor, and not an honorary caretaker. The Republic will rise beyond potential with the right Ranivor."

Torianos enters from the hallway outside. Torianos has arrived. Torianos enters followed by 9 clan guards.

Nydiam smiles to his daughter, "And you, young lady..." He kisses her cheek. His misty eyes turn back to Taleo and begins to cough, "Excuse me. I am afraid that I am going to have to retire for the evening. All of these festivities have worn me out. I thank each of you for coming to see me this evening. Please enjoy the palace." The old Clan Leader begins to rise. *Firan*

Savaren gets a drink and well toasts, unfortunately he missed it. But the words after that he catch's from Taleo and looks at him and downs the drink. HE then looks to Nydiam as he is ready to depart and stand and bows to Nydiam. "Thank you for having us, your Honor." *Firan*

Diamia takes a sip of wine and a bite of her cake but, alas, bites her tongue in the process. So her 'here, here' sounds more like 'there, there'. HA! But, in all seriousness, after taking another sip of wine, she breaks her personal rules of 'Physical Contact: Bad' and 'Displays of Emotion: Worse' to give her dad a hug. "I hope I am half the leader you have been," she says quietly and then grins up at Taleo. "And the Ranivor will lead us well because you have guided the princes so strongly all these years and provided an example to live up to." Loosing her arms from Nydiam, she rises as he does to see if he needs any assistance. *Firan*

Rislan stands up from his chair and bows to Nydiam, "Thank you for your hospitality Your Honor." *Firan*

Ketria stands up as well, curtseying gracefully. "Thank you for welcoming us into your home and sharing stories with us, Your Honor."

• Firan*

Rikon also stands up, but is silent.

Ildria stands, offers an elegant curtsey to Nydiam, but remains silent, having missed much of the festivities of the evening.

Rodiste stands up; clasping his hands behind his back as he turns to face the head table. His dark eyes quietly watch the Clan Leader depart with a faint smile. It was a good time indeed!

Torianos quietly enters and takes his seat, trying not to disrupt everything but he's just in time for Nydiam to leave. Every time, he gives Nydiam a smile and a bow as he departs. He leans over to speak quietly with Savaren as he reaches the head table.

Marsalos will follow this trend; courtesy dictates it. With Nydiam rising, and everyone else, he follows with a bow. His murmured thanks are just that -- murmurs.

Yaffros sets his glass down (now half-empty) and rises to his feet. His chin raises sharply. "Good health to you, Your Honor, and thank you. I am glad to have been here." *Firan*

Taleo rises as Nydiam does to see him off.

Diamia cheers Nydiam!

Nydiam waves one last wave to the guests, "I will see you all at the coronation tomorrow. Good evening to you all." Nydiam slowly disappears from the dining hall. *Firan* Nydiam heads toward the IstaNydiam Palace -- Downstairs Hallway. Nydiam has left.

Savaren whispers back to Torianos and claps his shoulder. He then looks around and smiles to Diamia. 'Shall we continue to drink, or has the night come to an end Mi'Lady?" *Firan*

...and they continued to drink and drink and drink until the sun rose!

THE END