Party Near the Summit - RPLOG
Participants
Date
30/8/478
Log
It might've been raining in Firmament tonight, but this far out rain was not even a slight concern. At least yet. For now, the sun was only starting to set, painting the canvas on the sky with the little sparkly bits of moon remnants. The party had only just begun out in the estate's garden, with buffet tables set up under the roofing along the sides.
The guests that had already arrived were mingling, many of them Solacious ilk by the looks of things, and a few nobles from other families there to make an appearance. And because they had the time to run off to the mountain for a party. They weren't the only ones, though, as a number of most-likely-not nobles were milling about, as well. A band was playing on the top of the steps leading into the castle, providing a low, ambient tune for the mellow evening.
Natska smiles happily as she sips on a glass of chilled cider, the jaguar staying close to Cassidy. She is wearing a light, blue sundress over her swimwear, and seeing to her duties as hostess, cheerfully greeting people as they arrive and making sure everyone has what they need to be happy and enjoy the night.
Zuri steps up, the jovial salamander tailwagging happily as he stands in line waiting to be admitted. He's dressed smartly tonight, a well tailored tailcoat, pinstripe pattern, dark grey to complement his exotic coloration. He peers around, hoping to see some of his friends.
Rokarion follows after Zuri, the plant being is dressed in his courtier garb as he stands next to Zuri, gaze more stern and gait more prim and proper, "I hope you will have fun here." the plant being idly comments, now a noticeable Cliffside accent in his voice.
The mute nurse shark arrives, wearing a black shirt with silver embroidery sized for a larger being. She has it belted about her waist, so it instead looks quite like a dress on her. She is wearing a simple bandeau and swim shorts underneath. She smiles as she looks around, walking over to the hosts and waving a bit. <A pleasure to make it out. I am myself sad that the rain does not come out this far, but it is better for the swimming.> She signs. Her ears perk a bit as she hears the Cliffside accent, curious.
Bazalt Blinks as he walks in looking around slowly. He was dressed normally! weapons and all! And THERE WAS A POOL! HE notes to keep as far away from it as possible as he looks around nervously, no doubt he's stick out if not for his clothing then for his weapons.. and to amke it worse he was a shadow..He just gulps. "oh.... why did I come?" He mumbles to himself as he just looks around..
Selena yawns quietly, the canine making her way onto the premises in an outit clearly not suited to swimming - unless getting her usual attire wet was on the agenda for the day. "Quite the crowd here today..." She muses, making her way around the periphery, noting the number of unfamiliar faces around the area.
Hartford stumps his way into the hall wearing a rather stunning pair of tight red swimming trunks (In the Creator style, he is told). The effect is rather remarkable against his blue and white, skunk striped fur. The reindeer guard takes a quick scan of the room, then steps to one side. "All clear Mister Brutus, Sir," he announces.
Party? Nobility? Free food and drink? It'd be a bigger surprise to not see Brutus here. Not to mention, at six and a half feet and 400 pounds he was pretty hard to miss, between the routine thumping of his cane and the large silk robe and light, baggy trousers he had purchased during the Longtech sojourn to Shralesta--while these loose, breathable garments had kept him cool during a damnably hot summer, they failed to make him appear any less...voluminous.
"I do appreciate your circumspection, dear Hartford, but I sincerely doubt any harm would befall me. The threat of scandal at her doorstep should be enough for Lady Solacious to keep this party safe," the large nobleskunk gently reprimands Hartford. Honestly, he was worried this big show of keeping him safe would only draw further attention. Tucking the cane beneath his arm and hoisting the pant-legs up by the hips so as not to tread on the hem, Brutus wades into the crowd, ready and willing to mingle, carouse, and partake of some free delicacies.
Jera makes his way into the hallway. He wears an unusual swim suit for a male with a thick-cut covering around his chest. Too much time spent as a female influencing his wardrobe, perhaps. The dull white stands out against his fur rather well, matching his color scheme. He's surprised by how crowded the occasion is, but waves to all his friends nontheless.
Cassidy leans against Natska, grinning happily as the guests make their way in. "Goodness, this is more than I was expecting! I hope I've got enough food!" she says, before nodding at Cirra's approach. "And I did not expect to see you, Cirra! Thank you for coming, I am pleased to see that you were able to make it! And the rain comes out here -sometimes- but usually just when it blows in from Firmament. No, today the water has had time to bake in the sun, and is only just now starting to cool again with the evening! It should be a fantastic temperature."
Rokarion and Zuri are premitted through without any fuss, the tailcoat and tophat clad butler at the gate complementing the salamander on his own coat as he waves them through. Cirra isn't the only one to have noticed to have noticed the Cliffside accent, it seems, when the jasmine gets a nod of greeting from a dapperly dressed wolf sipping on a glass of wine. Too well dressed to be a commoner, but definitely no Solacious fox.
"To have a reason to break routine and enjoy the summer evenings while we have them?" Comes a feminine voice directed at Bazalt, the source of which is a serpenting woman leaning against one of the pillars apart from the crowd. "I imagine that is why most of us are here."
Cassidy gives a happy wave towards Selena and Jera, grinning again. "And hello, you two! Nice to see you out here! Our 'little' party here is all the greater for your presence! And Brutus, Hartford! You two, too? Great! Please, enjoy what is provided! I am sure there will be something, or someone, here to interest -almost- everyone. Except maybe Sven. It might be a little -too- low key for him," she says with a gentle laugh. "But I assure you that everything is safe here!"
Natska grins happily, her ears perked as she gets to greet her friends. "Some crowd, certainly," she comments. "I like the outfit, Jera, it looks great. How are you doing? It has been far too long since we saw you. Since we saw a lot of people; things have been so quiet lately."
Zuri briefly detaches from Rokarion to go explore, the salamander moving toards the center of the open area to check out the premises, and keeping an eye out for any beings he might recognize. The salamander slowly circles around, trying to mingle with the crowd.
Rokarion stepped inside, the plant being was dressed in a white, frilly shirt with a white cravat around his neck topped with a light grey waistcoat, and finally a dark green frock coat as the outermost layer. It was a stark contrast to his usual humble outfit. Rokarion nods his head at Cassidy and Natska, "Grettings, ladies Solacious. A pleasure coming here." After greeting his associates, Rokarion turns around and nods at the wolf in turn before turning around back to Cassidy, "A friend of yours?" he asks.
Hartford falls into step just. behind Brutus, his almost-skunk tail flipping idly. "Just doing my job, Mister Brutus," he says, "And thank you for the swimming suit. I did not have anything for a fancy swimming party." The big blue reindeer does his best to be inconspicuous to allow his noble employer to hob nob appropriately.
Cirra smiles, grinning as she signs to her hosts. <Don't mind if I take advantage of it. I enjoy being in the water, and it's rare that I can do so without worry of injury.> She walks over to the pool, taking off the shirt and revealing the swimsuit underneath, slinking into the waters.
Jera watches Cirra undress...and then coughs as he doesn't quite find what he's looking for. The fennec deciding to join the shark, even if he's not likely to be able to keep up!
Cassidy leans to the side, glancing over towards the wolf before looking towards Rokarion and flashing a smile. "Ah... A friend... Not exactly. That is Horatio Wirefur. He was visiting the family for business purposes, and my father insisted he come he come here with him. So I am just trying not to make a poor impression." She is stopped, then, to exchange a few quiet words with another fennec that looks rather like a younger Cassidy before the new fox zips off again. "Ah, feel free, Cirra! The food and pool are here for everyone to enjoy!"
Bazalt Blinks and nods to theone to spoke to him "Y..yeah exactly!" HE gulps and wanders off, eyes darting about ...so many.. people... this was a bad idea. He skaes slightly and gulps before headding to a serving table. Yes food and drink-well needed distractions...
Selena chuckles quietly and shakes her head at the greeting she's given by Cassidy. "I'm not sure I'm improving that much by being here." She replies. "You certainly have some odd holidays - celebrating the end of summer. Is that a Sweetwater thing, or..?" Jera's given a nod in acknowledgement, then clicking her tongue for a moment. "Wirefurs." She mutters under her breath. "I'll avoid souring that, then. You already know I don't have the best opinion of that house."
Zuri steps up to the pool, peering inside and around at all the other beings enjoying it, or preparing to. The salamander continues to circle around, wiggling his snout curiously. He circles around completely and returns to Rokarion's side.
Natska takes Cassidy's hand and gives it a small squeeze, then kisses the back of it. She turns her smile over to Selena then, her tail swishing back and forth, then shrugs her shoulders. "Every day is worth celebrating, Selena. It doesn't have to be a holiday or a special occaison; just feeling happy is worth it too."
Cirra swims gracefully through the water before noticing Jera joining her. She smiles at the vulpine being, signing to him with a smile. <What brings you out here, my lord?> She does remember his ancestry, after all.
Zuri, meanwhile, is confronted with another salamander- Wait, no, that's a gecko. A leopard gecko, even, who offers a polite wave as she helps herself to a tall mug of ale. "Hello there. I think I have seen you around the Freesword's inn from time to time. Both of you," she says, looking towards Rokarion next. "I am Sil, nice to meet you!"
The serpent that had been speaking to Bazalt folds an arm around her chest to cup her elbow, drawing another sip from her wine. "Well, try not to let yourself get too stressed out," she says, offering a wave to the departing wolf.
Cassidy turns to smile at Zuri after the gecko's greeting. "And hello to you, too! Nice to see you out here. And no, it's not really a Sweetwater thing, Selena. More of a... Me thing! Natska and I wanted to throw a party this summer, so... We're doing it!"
Hartford procures a whole tray of goodies from a circulsting servant, shooing him off and holding the tray in place for Brutus. The blue reindeer looks as happy as a child on his birthday as he follows the plus size skunk around, though he does give a longing glance or two toward the pool.
Brutus looks a bit miffed at Cass's greeting--what'd she mean, 'you two too!' Talking about them like they were an uninvited couple. Erm. Because they weren't a couple. He couldn't do that to poor Hartford, the boy looked up to him like an older brother. Ahem.
He clears his throat and puts on his blandest smile, replying with a perfectly well-mannered 'thank you' and putting an arm around his man-at-arms as he leads the 'deer towards the pool. "Now, you have worked long and hard enough lately. I want you to enjoy yourself too, tonight. Relax--that's an order!" the Skunk says, putting on a terrible drill-sergeant voice to command him around. "Oh! But do wait for a minute, these look delectable..." he calls, plucking a dainty or two from Hartford's 'borrowed' tray.
Zuri smiles at the friendly gecko and pads over, greeting her with a smile and and an outstretched hand. "Hi Sil, it's nice to meet you." He grins. "My name's Zuri, and the jasmine here next to me is Rokarion." He eyes the gecko up and down, trying to recognize her. "So you're with the Freeswords, Sil? Or just a patron of the inn in general?"
Rokarion nods his head at Cassidy, "A member of house Wirefur, I see." he says before Zuri comes back to his side. The plant being eyes the gecko nearby and smiles back at her before kneeling down a bit and whispering something to Zuri. Rokarion then looks up at Selena and gives her a respectful nod, "Ah, Miss Selena. Pleasure meeting you here." he says as he hears her comment about the wirefurs, "Speaking about political opinions, have you been following the political situation in Cliffside?"
"Well, if that's what you want to do." Selena replies. Brutus is given a level glance as she takes a longer look around, the wolfess apparently having not forgotten the rotund noble. Rokarion's comments are met with a quirked eyebrow. "Am I that recognizable?" She quips, offering a hand. "Still it's good to see you again as well. I have been keeping tabs on the situation, but not actively. I couldn't care less what becomes of it, frankly. Cliffside politics is particularly dirty business, even when it appears clean-cut."
Bazalt Grabs some food and Chew one it gulping it down heartily. "Relax.. damn-just.. relax.." HE takes a deep breath and truns around, eyes those he knew.. and ok..alot of.. Stranger figures.. a Blue... thing a fat.. thing.. He sighs and heads over-not Realizing there close to the pool untill to late HE spots the body of Water and Freezes-Staring dead at it.
"Nice to meet you, too, Rokarion!" Sil says with a smile, giving a little curtsy. "I am a Freesword, yes. A bard by trade. And thaaaat..." She trails off, looking amongst the crowd before pointing off towards a blue-tailed skink of a being busy laughing with a small group of waterclan individuals. "Is Wilford, my bondmate. He does the fighting of the two of us, I just follow along and makes sure he's in a good enough shape to keep doing so!"
Cassidy, meanwhile, gives Brutus an odd look. Was her greeting poor? Did he swallow a bug? She shrugs and looks back towards Rokarion and Selena, tail flicking behind her. "Your presence is a boon! Friends make parties all the better."
While in the midst of delectable morsel of sweet cheese melted over fruit on rusk--the sweet juicy fruit like a canteen of cool water amid the desert of the dry, twice-baked bread--word of Cliffside politics reaches Brutus's ears, and tail twitches and begins to stand up, seeming to come to a life of its own.
"Oh, really now. This is meant to be a celebration! Must we bring up such...distasteful gossip here?" he grumbles aloud. "Politics spoils my appetite," he mopes, plucking another pastry or two from the tray and cradling them in an arm rested against his generous bosom.
Hartford grins happily. "Are you sure, Mister Brutus?" he asks, "I am happy to stay and help you if you want." He keeps the tray level for his hungry employer.
Zuri throws Rokarion a smirk as he whispers to him, then turns his attention back to Sil, nodding at her words. He looks over at the skink, then back at her, smiling brightly. "That's great to hear! I find that adventure and common adversity is a great way to form lasting bonds, to really bring two beings together." He looks around, then back at the gecko. "I myself don't spend as much time at the Freeswords' as I used to.. what with the constant stream of work coming from Cliffside, and travels to Braevales..."
Bazalt Stares the the pool and truns around only for his exit to be Blocked by a Group of People. The wolf shakesslightly and takes a step backward, closer to the pool as he frowns "Oh... I'm regretting this..." He says out loud, Glacing around quickly for another way out.
Selena rolls her eyes slightly. "You flatter me." She replies with a half-smile, looking back over her shoulder at the noble. "Brutus, you're under no obligation to join in the conversation - and we're being perfectly civil. I trust you can behave maturely and simply ignore us?" the canine deadpans, turning back to Rokarion. "Pardon, you were saying?"
Natska slips Cassidy a quick hug, then disappears through a doorway into the estate proper. She comes back out in a minute in her black one piece swim suit, and then lets herself into the pool, sighing happily as she relaxes near the edge of the water.
Rokarion nods his head at Sil smiling as he looks down on Zuri, nodding at Sil before looking back at the two ladies in front of him, "A pleasure being here as well Lady Cassidy." he comments. Rokarion grabs some fresh juice from one of the butlers, making sure to get a glass of some sweet juice and giving it to Zuri as well, "So you have no 'favourites' with the current candidate line up?" he asks with a smile before his attention is grabbed by Brutus, the plant being raises a brow before nodding his head again, "My apologies Lord Brutus. I did not meant to quench your endless appetite."
Jera gently pokes Cirra's side with her tail. "Who signs when swimming?" He laughs, rolling around to float on his back. All the fluff on his form helping to keep him afloat as he paddled leisurely, quite enjoying the quiet moment.
Cirra mock pouts at her friend, smiling as she rubs against him. <I do. Especially when under water. Because that's easier than chalk, and I can swim with just my tail.> She splashes him playfully, then waves to Natska at the edge of the pool.
"Oh, I agree!" Sil says, fixing a plate of food to go with her drink. "That's how we met, actually! He and I ended up on the same group assignment a few times, and we started to hang out more. And... Well! We still make a hobby of it. Adventuring is great fun, don't you think?"
Cassidy tugs off her own dress and folds it up by the edge of the pool. She was already in her own one-piece bathing suit under it, so by the time Natska is back out, she's able to slip into the water with her, nodding at Cirra and Jera. "Are you alright there?" She asks, turning a concerned look up towards Bazalt. "You are not ill, are you?"
Hartford hands off the food tray with a smile and jogs heavily toward the pool, tail swaying happily. "Make way!" he cheers, then throws himself Snowmark style into the pool! "CANNON BALL!"
Zuri grins widely at the gecko, nodding quickly. "Absolutely! I honestly don't know how I lived before the Freeswords. My first contract was lifechanging, like I had found a new purpose." He peers around, then leans in. "And... I found my special being at the Freeswords' as well." He leans back again, smirking. "We should go out on an adventure sometime." He pauses, then asks. "I don't suppose you approached me because you have a request? If so I'm in, I love helping." He smiles.
Jera gasps. "Water magic!" He chuckles, and splashes back at Cirra with a giggle. He waves at Cassidy and Natska, patting the surface of the water as if to invite them! A...at least until he is drenched thoroughly by Hartford!
It wouldn't be so bad for Hartford if Brutus would be a decent glutton and just scarf down the damn hors-d'ouveres. But no, the Skunk was a proper gourmand, delicately picking at each one, savoring the brilliant contrasts and sublime complements of each morsel, experiencing each one in a moment of epicurean ecstasy, and generally taking forever to do what took most beings two bites.
Putting on his smuggest grin, he swallows and replies. "My dear Selena, if you wish to engage in this sort of talk, perhaps you should be more present in your courtly duties." Rejoinder delivered, he turns around to find his steadfast companion has disappeared, replaced by an estate servant who was already walking off to serve other guests besides him--how rude! His fuzzy round face sags a bit as he frowns at his newfound loneliness, though it brings a bit of a smile back to his face to hear Hartford's adolescent glee in leaping into the pool.
"You say duties as if my presence was mandated. I'm flattered." Selena replies over her shoulder, in the same deadpan tone she'd used before, turning around as Cassidy makes her way over to the edge of the pool and laughing to herself for a moment, aparrently more content to remain around the edges of the area as opposed to the pool.
If it wouldn't have been seen as potentially threatening, Cirra would use actual water magic silliness on the fox. She rolls over in the water, waiting to see what her hostesses are going to do. She is enjoying the chance to properly swim, though.
Natska laughs cheerfully. She leans her shoulder against Cassidy and enjoys the contact for a moment, then pushes off from the wall, swimming out closer to Jera and Cirra, shaking her head. "Be careful, Hartford, the pool isn't -that- deep. And we would like to keep the water -in- the pool."
"Oh, did you? Yes, I suspected as much!" Sil says, glancing towards Rokarion and offering a little grin. "I've seen you two around, like I said. You two seemed close. Good on you for that! Everyone deserves to find someone special. Makes life so much better, doesn't it?" She giggles quietly, nibbling on her meal. "And no, no requests! Just wanted to say hello! Parties are great for mingling and making new friends, and since you were familiar, I figured why not!"
Cassidy glances back towards Brutus and Selena for a moment, starting to say something before she's interrupted by Hartford's dive. There's a squeak and she's briefly pulled under by the ripples, but she's soon surfacing back up, laughing merrily. "Yes, it's -hard- to get water out here for this, you know!"
"Selenaaaa! Come join us!" The kit fox seems intent to get everyone wet! Paddling to the edge of the pool to flick water with his fingers at the wolf's feet. He lets himself chill at the edge for a while after getting a faceful from Hartford!
Zuri smiles at Sil. "Consider it a standing offer then. Your friend Zuri is here to help with anything you need! And the offer extends to Wilford as well, of course!" He pauses as the loud -SPLASH- catches his attention, the amphibian turning over and giggling. "Oh wow, someone's having fun!"
Bazalt Blinks and frowsn he takes anotehr step back andd anotehr and- he turns to look down the the pool and the one who spoke to him, his slit eyes staring at the water mroe than her. "i-i-i'm o-ok t..t-hank you.." He glups and Blinks. before frownsing was the.. water getting closer? oh. no... He lets out a brife "EEEK!" before SPLOOSH! the black wolf is submirders and.. flailing under the water-wait It appears he cannot swim! and if anything that fact jsut makes him flail more.
Cirra is quite enjoying herself when she notices the wolf fall into the water. She quickly makes her way over to Bazalt, attempting to use her superior skills at swimming and other aquatic activities to help him back to where he can stand.
Selena raises a hand in polite denial to Jera's request. "No, thank you." The cenine shifts back slightly, evaporating what water was flicked her way after it splatters harmlessly to the ground.
Rokarion takes a sip from his drink before looking at Sil, then back at Zuri, "Indeed, you could say that." he comments as Hartford splashes into the water, "Hmmm, you could join them if you wish, Zuri. In fact...." he trails off as he notices Bazalt falling into the water, "Hmmm, well good thing there are a lot of people to help him in the pool." the plant adds as he looks down at Zuri, "Hmm, I know this sounds silly but you do know how to swim, yes?"
Hartford shakes the water from his thick fur, laughing. He blinks around as he stands, the water only coming up to his shaggy shoulders. "Come in, Mister Brutus!" he calls out, "The water is great!" He blinks and looks around hearing calls for help. The big reindeer slogs through the water and picks up the flailing wolf. "You okay, friend?" he asks.
Zuri looks up at Rokarion, quirking an eyebrow at him. "Of course I do! What do you take me for? A great adventurer has to be ready for all elements, especially the dangerous ones!" He giggles. "I think I'll pass, however, rather hang out with my new friend Sil and all the other gentlebeings out here."
Natska quietly chuckles, smiling as she begins working her way around the courtyard pool at a leisurely pace. Her motions are smooth and graceful, an evening in the water a normal occurance for her out here.
Bazalt Blinks and GAsps as he's RAises above the water-he remains in teh ppol however and he looks around suprised. "I.. -ah" cough" S..sorry.. I.. didnt mean to make.. a scene.." He gulps and blushes under his wet-black fur. "S..sorry.." He just stammers over and over.
Cirra pats Bazalt, checking to make sure he didn't injure himself while falling in. Satisfied that the reindeer has the wolf in good hands, she decides that now is the time for her to indulge in the sweet treats and other delectables that the Solacious make. It's nice, being a gourmet in fancy company.
"Cirra! Mind if you take some food to the poolside? I kinda don't want to drip anywhere..." The fox tried to mask laziness.
Brutus seems poised to continue his bickerfest with the resident magic wolf--there's so many options, like talking about a seat on the council is not a gift given lightly to commoners like her, or how a Cliffside interloper shouldn't even have a say in Sweetwater politics! But without his companion and enabler, he seems a bit defeated, milling around the farther reaches edges of the courtyard and watching helplessly as servants dart about--it's almost like they're avoiding him!
The large Skunk looks up at the sound of Hartford inviting him in, offering only a pained smile and a shake of the head. If pressed, he could find an excuse, but most of all he was self-conscious around this crowd, almost to a one young, slender, and generally pleasant to the eyes...
And then--the shouts of distress! As if without thinking--in fact, almost certainly without thinking, Brutus shucks his robe and hikes up his trouser-legs as he rumbles towards the pool as fast as his thick legs will thunder. With a relative grace for someone of his bulk, the giant skunk pitches himself into the water with a sizable sploosh, bobbing up to find...that Hartford already saved the poor Being and he is now stuck, half-naked, in public. His face burns with shame as he tries to sink and skulk off discreetly, but his...bouyancy makes that rather impossible.
Cassidy isn't a bad swimmer, by any means, but... She's no expert. And while Bazalt's issue has her concerned, she's happy to stay back and let Cirra handle it, trying to keep up her relaxed appearance as she floats along lazily in the water. "You okay there?" she asks idly, keeping her voice level.
Sil looks between Rokarion and Zuri as the jasmine speaks. "It's true! An adventurer that doesn't know how to swim is asking for trouble! Would you like to come join our conversation?" She asks, flashing a kind smile.
"Finding the food to your liking, cousin-" Comes a voice from behind Brutus just as her tears off towards the pool. Another skunk, dressed in a two piece bathing suit. She was very much his opposite, though, in figure, and she stands there looking kind of dumbstruck. "And here I was about to suggest you try the pool! I guess I don't need to, now," she says, nearly doubling over with laughter.
Cassidy is once again pulled under the water by the diving skunk, sputtering for a moment as she resurfaces. Well... No pool party would be complete with out cannonballs. She wipes the water from her face, taking up a spot next to Natska again.
Cirra pretends not to hear Jera, instead nibbling the food and wincing as she watch Brutus make a fool of himself. She eats a full plateful before going back to two more, taking them to the side of the pool and sitting there, wondering if she could make a splash guard with water magic.
Bazalt BLinks and Stares at hartford. "I. s..sorry.. to.. to have-OH... I'm still in teh water.." and with that he CLINGS to the reindeer and holds on for dear life-probaly going pale.. if he could.
Selena watches Brutus leap into 'action', the canine sighing audibly as she evaporates the water sent flying towards her by the skunk. "... Good grief..." She mutters to herself, watching the spectacle unfold. "Well, if nothing else praise the intent." She sighs, rolling her eyes slightly. "I'm surprised to see anyone else here from Thera'dor. What brings you to Sweetwater, then..?" the canine asks, question obviously directed at Brutus's apparent cousin.
Hartford holds the clinging little wolf up. "You're okay, little friend," he says, then flinches as the wave produced by Brutus' heroic belly flop washes over him. He turns a sunny smile on Brutus. "Welcome, Mister Brutus!" he says, "I knew you would like the water!"
The other skunk looks towards Selena after regaining her composure and placing a hand to her chest. "Me? Ah, no, no! I am not from Thera'dor. I am Melody Blackback." She looks a little puzzled for a moment. "What made you think I was from Thera'dor?" She looks questioningly at Brutus. Was he adopted?
Bazalt Smiles the the man "c-could.. you..get.. get my out of the.. water.. please..." He shakes crazily as he Clings to the reindeer, looking utterly utterly terrifyed.
Natska swims her way back around to the side of the pool, near Cassidy; she puts an arm around her wife's shoulders, then stands in the water, her head just above the water line. "Are you alright, hun?" she asks quietly. "I saw you go under a couple of times there."
Selena rubs the bridge of her nose. "Pardon. Brutus at times reminds me of another entirely separate being." She comments, coughing. "No doubt they'd get along if they met, but regardless. It's been a long day, and frankly I'm not entirely sure what gave me that idea." The canine sighs, shaking her head. "Well, regardless. It's certainly become quite the scene here."
As if to add further insult to injury, a stream of bubbles erupts from the air trapped in his now-sodden trousers escaping out the tail slit, burbling unsubtly behind him. Oh, creators...why did this have to happen to HIM? He was trying to be a good Being, willing to sacrifice himself to save others! (Well, kind of. Not that he could sink and drown if he ate a cannonball before diving in.) And all he got out of it was a roar of laughter from his cousin and others, and everyone staring at him.
Water pours from his fur, laying it flat against him and highlighting his...physique: the convex chest and sagging belly, the sodden pants look like sausage-casing around his legs...
He scoots himself towards the shallow end, trying to hide within himself and avoiding eye contact with everyone except sweet, cheery, and practically unavoidable Hartford.
"I am fine," Cassidy says, rubbing at her ears. "Just, ah... It's kind of easy to pull me under! Doesn't take much to send water splashing over someone my size. But I am fine, thank you!"
Melody regards Selena for a moment, starting to reply before she interrupts herself to bite back another laugh as she fans herself with a hand. "Goodness gracious. Are you alright, Brutus? Do you need a hand?" She asks, not one to just watch her family members in such a state. Even if it was terribly amusing. "And yes, it has been a long day, hasn't it? I don't make the trip out here terribly often, but I figured it would be remiss of me if I didn't show up! And it was getting rather dull around home."
Cirra sets down a plate for Jera while she watches the scene unfold before her, staring absently at the others. She doesn't want to get involved in noble politeness, since she's at best the daughter of two scholars. NOthing more, nothing less.
"Sure thing, pal," Hartford chuckles, carrying the wolf to the edge of the pool and setting him down carefully before turning back to help Brutus. "Can I get you anything, Mister Brutus?" he asks with a smile, "That bathing suit looks good on you, Sir!" There is no hint of patronization or mocking in his voice.
"I wouldn't know." Selena replies with a slight shrug, "I live alone and work at the academy, but I wouldn't call it dull." She comments; "It's not as hard to get out here as it could be, but this after the work I've had at the academy is... Taxing, to say the least. I had a student try to copy something they'd heard I did once, and now I have a stack of paperwork about this high to fill out because of it." She mutters holding two hands a sizable distance apart - it's a clear hyperbole, but nonetheless. "They'll recover, at least."
Rokarion nods his head at Sil as he looks down on Zuri, "I would enjoy that, yes." the jasmine plant answers back as he takes a sip from his drink, "So, when did you get bonded, you and your partner?"
Zuri peers over at the commotion that's taking place by the pool, silently thanking his stars that he did not opt to join the other beings in there. He nods at Sil, smilling, waiting to hear her answer.
Jera smilles at Cirra and signals the simple thanks. Picking up a macaron and devouring the delectable treat.
Bazalt Sigh and pants as he lays on the edge-doing nothing for now..just.. trying not to manic.
Finally making his way out of the depths, Brutus is a sorry sight: his damp fur sagging against his body, tail dragging limply behind him. Somehow, the sad smile he gives to Hartford only makes him look more pathetic.
"...thank you, Hartford," is all he can manage to reply with a pained politeness. He had no change of clothes--he initially had no intent of swimming tonight--and his thoughts turn to the trip back. Soaking wet, in those cold winds, at that altitude--it certainly wouldn't be pleasant. Why were the Fates so truly aligned against him?
Sil looks up at Rokarion, lowering her drink for a moment. "It will be three years, in two months. Minus a few days. So yes! About three years ago, now. We met in Silvervein Pass, when we and a few others got hired to clear out a group of shale spiders that had halted some mining progress."
Melody tilts her head to the side, pondering Selena for a moment. "Mmm... With paperwork like that, I do hope no one was -harmed-. I don't think I could handle teaching at the academy. I'm much happier just going there to read."
Unfortunately, perhaps, for Cirra, it seems like the nobles weren't content to leave Cirra alone! Soon enough, the small fennec from earlier slips up next to the shark to join in the watching. "Hello! You're a good swimmer, for being able to go down there after him like that!"
Natska perks her ears as she listens to some of the pieces of conversation around the courtyard, relaxing against the edge of the pool again. Her legs idly kick at the water, although her arm supports most of her weight and keeps her from driting off.
Cirra continues eating, absentmindedly petting Jera before the fennec joins her. She smiles, blushing a bit. <I can't talk, but would be happy to carry a conversation if you can understand this.>
Zuri wiggles his snout. "So much trouble out of Silvervein, from wildlife to bandits. Someone should figure out an alternate passage or two around the mountain." He looks at Rokarion, offering him a sly grin. "Perhaps some intrepid explorers and surveyors, huh?"
Jera decides to pick himself out of the water, pulling a little wind magic trick to try to speak in Cirra's stead. Using the female voice he had practiced...
Selena laughs quietly. "Which is why I no longer teach fire or air magic at all. Yes, the student hurt themselves, damaged some equipment and put their peers at risk. They're very lucky; some of the magic I've worked with in past carry some very high risks if you cannot cast them properly." The canine looks back over to the pair and produces a bottle of cider from her bag.
Hartford hurries after Brutus, water dripping from his enormous, muscled form. "Wait for me, Mister Brutus!" he calls clomping along. He does not second guess his master, but he can't understand what the problem might be.
Rokarion nods his head at Sil as she answers his question, the plant took another sip from his glass before he spent a moment to adjust his aromatic blossom. Looking at Zuri, Rokarion smiled, "Hmm, we still don't have enough money to run our own expeditions, but I will certainly put that on the agenda." he answered Zuri.
Bazalt Leans up and sigsh "ugggghhhh What did I do.." He rubs his head and frowns-soaking wet, his gear, his Clothes...He sigsh and glance to the.. shark that was talking in.. sign? Curious..He debates heading over nad frowns. it was by the pool..But.. away from people, so he crawls round the the edlge of the pool slowly untill he reaches them. "H-hello" he says softly still glancing at the water.
The young fox looks at Cirra's strange gestures, then at Jera's windy noise, then back up at Cirra. She watches for a moment, offering a sheepish grin as her ears start to wilt as she realizes she has no clue what's going on.
"She can't speak, Lori," Cassidy explains, leaning against Natska. The other fennec gives an uncertain nod before looking back towards the shark. "Ah, well, sorry, then...! I'm not really good at talking with my hands." Or at all.
Melody gives a soft, ponderous noise before a shrug. "There are drink here, you know! Cider among them, I think! But yes, I am sure that your work would be dangerous to try to replicate without the experience needed to do it. But, I suppose that is what happens! People look up to you."
Sil taps a finger against her chin, listening to the two speak. "Money? For expeditions? I can't say that I have much to offer you to get that going, buuuut. Have you thought about trying to do it yourselves? Get things started, I mean. I am not sure what all you would need, but I am sure you could manage to make much of it yourselves with a bit of practice!:
Cirra blinks, pouting a bit as the young fox isn't able to talk to her. She goes over to where her dress is stashed and grabs her chalkboard, grinning. She writes upon the slate. /My name is Cirra. You are Lori?/ The phrasing is short because of the space available.
Cara walks into the party with a small smile on her face. Sadly, her hair is still untidy as usual but she just got up from one of her many outings. She enters the courtyard in her usual outfit. Along her back is a small bag which appears to have part of a swimsuit hanging out of it. She cautiously walks around, looking for Cassidy when she spots a rather large skunk currently soaking wet. She walks closer to him and eyes him for a moment before asking, "Do you know where I can change into something more suitable? I had to hurry to get here since I missed the initial airship."
Selena sighs quietly and nods. taking a sip of her drink. "I'm aware; Cassidy's hospitality is quite good;" quickly rolling the bottle in her hand to show a label, she continues: "I just have a personal preference. This particular brewery was local to where I studied, and I'm quite fond of it now. It's a small group, so they don't usually make exports."
The comment of being looked up to is met with a quiet laugh and a shake of her head. "They don't look up to me, they look up to who they think I am - and those are two very separate things, more often than not."
"Ah! That I understand fully," Melody says with a nod, eyeing the label. "They didn't happen to have my particular favourite wine, but... It happens. She has quite a selection of whites, which would be wonderful if I were that kind of woman. I prefer my reds, though." She pauses for a moment, considering the second part carefully. "Perhaps. I can't say I know you well enough to say either way, but I know they -do-, at least, admire your deeds! Lots of young, aspiring magicians, within and without, of the family aspire to make discoveries like you have."
Lori grins happily at the chalk board. Now -reading- was something she knew how to do! Perks of being a noble child. "Yes! I am Lori Solacious. Nice to meet you, miss Cirra," she says, dipping into a practice curtsy. "You are a friend of Cassidy? I saw you go over there when you came in!"
Cassidy waves over towards Cara from the pool, before pointing off towards the curtain. "Yeah, you can change over there. Nice to see you could make it!"
Brutus cycles through a gamut of expressions at Cara's question, from indignity that some commoner could just run up and speak to him without preface or apology, to embarrassment that one of the riffraff had managed to see him in this state, to seething outrage at the entire situation, to resignation at his apparent lot in life. He finishes his facial calesthenics and, with a sigh and a flabby arm dripping with poolwater, wordlessly gestrues towards some curtains erected beyond the poolside.
Cirra smiles broadly, glad she's able to communicate with Lori. /I am a friend of Cassidy. Not sure how met, though. Remember a seige, at least./ She looks for a place to sit and talk with the fennec.
Bazalt pats the Shakr Sofly on teh shoulder. "you.. ahh. Saved.. me.. or help.ed.. right?.." He gulps and glances at teh water. "T-thanks. " he says softly as his eyes Dart to the one she was communicating with.
Rokarion nods his head at Sil and smiles, "It is not that simple, madam." the plant being says as he glances the commotions in the pool, shaking his head at the silliness before looking back at Sil, "To properly explore certain locations you need beings as well as equipment. There is only so much a being can do by himself."
Selena shakes her head. "Then I hope they've strongly considered the implications of their work and the impact it will have." She replies with a sigh. "Thankfully, those people that respect my research tend to be more mature than those that have thumbed through old freeswords reports and heard of some of the things I've done in past. At times, I've considered having them destroyed or redacted."
Hartford hurries up to Brutus with a newly acquired towel. A large one. And a whole tray of goodies. "What is wrong, Mister Brutus?" he asks.
Zuri grins. "Indeed! Even the two of us, how much could we accomplish just on our own? No, what we need is a group of others like us. Explorers, discoveres, adventurers. Beings of all stripes, from those that go out and range the land with their own two feet, to those that stay at home, studying books and maps, looking for clues as to where to go. And.. of course... crown, lots of crown to pay for all this."
Cara smiles politely and almost gives the hefty skunk one of her spare towels, but frowns upon seeing the bulky reindeer hand one over anyway. "I was going to give you one of my towels, but I guess this works too. Thanks for showing me where to change though. I'll be right back." At that point, she turns and walks over to Cassidy, smiles, and answers, "Thanks again for inviting me to the party." At that point, she walks over to the curtains and begins changing into a grey one piece swimsuit away from public view.
Cirra quickly scrawls a reply to Bazalt. /My pleasure. Come see me at Silver Lining Shipwrights. Can talk more freely there./
Bazalt smiels to her and then Signs back <I can understand things you know> He chuckles soft and sighs. "I.. just... dislike water.. and.. cannot swim.. and hugs Crowds set me off.." he shudders and sighs "Makes me wonder why I came here Like a disaster waiting to happen...."
With the sullen moue on Brutus's face as he looks up to Hartford, he looks more like a giant child than a nobleman approaching thirty. Placing Cara's towel on the seat of a nearby chair, he throws himself down on it with a creak, using the other one to work at his vast expanse of a pelt.
"You believe me to be a good being, right?" Without waiting for Hartford's answer, he places his chin(s) in a hand and continues as he stares off at nothing in particular on the ground. "So what do I do wrong to deserve such disrespect and disgrace?"
Natska sighs happily as she relaxes in the pool, smiling and watching the crowd. After a moment she glances around, then rubs her nose against Cassidy's cheek before she goes back to watching the various beings. "It is a good night tonight, love. And I am glad to share it with so many others."
Lori's attention is quite fully on Cirra, ready to follow her anywhere. "A siege! How exciting! Uhm. I'm glad neither of you were hurt though. That sounds dangerous."
"No problem," Cassidy says with a little smile, even as Melody shifts her hip to the side, resting her hands upon them. "Some do, some don't. Within the family, most of the youth just want to find a way to make a name for themselves in a family of researchers."
Sil shakes her head, snickering. "You don't have to go quite that far, I think... There are beings like you, and me, more than happy to explore at the drop of a hat. Beings that aren't in it for the money, but maybe for the thought of treasures found! Or just to see and do things. Tools might be an issue, buuut... You can probably find some beings that will have their own to bring, too!"
Cassidy wraps her arm tighter around Natska, giving her a squeeze. "It is, Natska. And I am glad, too. So many friends we hadn't seen in a while all came out! It's been fantastic. This went above and beyond my hopes."
"You acted without thinking." Selena replies to Brutus - blunt. "That is what you did, and what lead to your embarassment here." She canine takes a slightly pointed tone, though it's clear she's not just sniping at the skunk's misfortune. "If you are more mature - if you spend a moment to think about what you are doing - you'll have a far better time if you are so concerned about your status."
Cirra nods. /It is enjoyable to work along such a fine mage./ She wipes the board before continuing. /She's probably my superior in all things except water magic. And that's close./
Cara finishes changing her clothes and walks on over to the hefty pair. Her ears twitch as she listens to the conversation and she sighs. Then, she crouches down for a moment to make eye contact with the skunk, "What's all this I hear about status? Are you some kind of member of nobility or something?"
Hartford seems confused. "Embarassed?" he asks, "I thought you were very heroic, Mister Brutus," he says, "And dashing." He holds out the plate of goodies while he stands dripping. "Nothing to be ashamed of," he says in his low, slow voice, "Everyone else is just jealous."
Cirra turns to Basalt. <My apologies. I just do not assume everyone understands sign, since, well, I got this poor girl over here lost trying to talk like this.>
Rokarion lets out a soft chuckle and shakes his head, "That is exactly what we are doing, Sil." the plant being responds, "We have started the Pathfinder's Society exactly for that. We have gotten ourselves a good number of recruits already. And we have done our first expedition in Braevales, but with support from the Freeswords." Rokarion says as he eyes the group at the pool as the conversation diverts into magic and wine, "If you want to join then check at the Freeswords they should still have some of our fliers hanging around."
Bazalt smiles to her and nods. "I get that.. "he sighs. "and.. again. thanks for.. ah SAving me..." he nods. "I.. Wouldve hated to have drowned at a social gathering.."he shakes his ehad "what a way to go."
Lori gives Cirra an incredulous look, glancing at Cassidy out of the corner of her eye. "I don't knoooow. I know she's good at air magic, but I never really thought of her much as a mage. Aren't mages usually all tall and wearing big flowing robes? She's anything but tall! And the only robe I see her wear is the bed robe, and that is hardly fancy enough for a mage."
Cassidy's ears flick as she glances over her shoulder, peering at the other fennec for a moment. She gives a quiet snort and lays her head on Natska's shoulder, while Melody turns to look at Brutus. "Now, now, cousin. You should relax. This is a party, after all. You did a good thing, or tried to, but the only one really making a scene is you. Grab a glass of wine, relaaax. Take in the clean, mountain air and enjoy the fact it's not so humid up here."
Sil hums softly as she considers the offer, tail curling and flexing behind her. "Maybe! Maybe. I'll talk to my bondmate about it and see what he thinks! We don't have much money to contribute, like I said, but we have our own tools!"
Rokarion snickers and shakes his head, "Members do not need to pour in money, they join to get paid on expeditions. It is the job of the society's officers to secure the funding, but anyway you can consider it and contact me. It should be easy in the Freeswords." the plant being says before giving her a bow, "Now excuse me, I need to do something." he says as he lets Zuri there to continue chatting with the gecko.
Finally, some adulation! Attempting to look as proud as an obese waterlogged skunk can, Brutus straightens his posture and sits tall, head tilted up to look a bit down at Cara. "Indeed. I am Brutus Blackback--scion of the noble Blackback family, scholar, magus, liasion for LongTech, and veteran of combat to preserve this fine nation." An indulgently benevolent grin creases his round cheeks.
Head still lifted, long white hair still wild and dripping, he casts his glance down onto Selena as well. "Mortal danger waits for no being, and I was not going to sit around and hope to calculate a proper solution to save the life of our dear guest here," he replies, gesturing vaguely into whatever direction Bazalt might be. Goes to show how much he was interested in the poor Wolf's welfare.
Cirra chuckles. /I may not look like much, but I'm quite the mage myself./ She attempts to use a little freeform water magic to pull a puddle closer to herself, away from the pool.
Cara moves back up to maintain eye level with Brutus. She turns her head to the side and leans in the direction from where he is pointing, "Err, I don't see anyone there." She proceeds to shift her gaze back to the rather corpulent noble, "I didn't mean to disrespect you. I just didn't know earlier because I'm not really from Sweetwater."
Natska smiles brightly and then leans her head against Cass', ear flicking as she listens a little more. She quietly chuckles, then waggles her fingers in Cirra and Lori's direction. "Being a mage is about understanding how something works, not being fancy."
Selena chuckles quietly at skunk's extolling of his virtues. "Consider also the situation - there were already a number of beings in and around the pool at the time. If you genuinely believe you were doing the right thing, then why would you feel shame? As your cousin said, let the others laugh, but you know you did it for the right reason, don't you?" She replies, taking another sip of her cider and moving around the pool to the others. "As I said before, I would praise the intent."
Bazalt Smiles and WAtches the Shark before. GEtting up "Thanks.. but I need to go.." He smiles to her and heads out-having had enought of hte.. party and the Water for the night.
Melody gives Brutus a soft round of applause for his introduction. Top notch, truly. Lori watches Cirra pull the puddle closer, ears flicking as she leans forward, hands on her knees. "Cool!" She stops, then, looking mortified and glancing around. "I mean... Ah... Very nice," she says, much more professionally. Then, she looks towards Natska at her words. "I thought that was just being smart? I thought being a mage was being -fancy- with your smartness."
And speaking of magic... As the night falls, the torches around the cloister have ignited! Some magic at play, of course, but by who is anyone's guess. Keeping both light and warmth within the cloister.
Cirra girns and smiles. /It's also about knowing how the world works./ She waves to the wolf. <You take care now. And definitely try to keep in touch!>
"Then praise me and be done with it--there lies a wisdom in knowing when to stop," Brutus replies tartly to Selena. Who did this woman think she was, intruding on his wallowing in self-pity? He would be polite enough to leave her alone if he saw her moping about.
With an offhand gesture, Brutus indicates to Hartford to leave the tray on the nearby table and dismisses him to splash around in the pool once more. "'tis merely the abridged version, dear cousin--I did not wish to bore our new guest here...," he turns to Cara, a quizzical look on his face, "What would your name happen to be, miss?"
Selena scoffs, shaking her head. "And you asked quite pointedly why such 'horrible things' befell you, Brutus. If you don't want an answer to that question, do not ask it." She replies with a roll of her eyes.
Cassidy gives a quiet laugh, nuzzling at Natska's cheek in return, leaning half against her, half against the edge of the pool. Lori, meanwhile, listens to Cirra for a moment before glancing around once more. "Caaass. Can you teach me how to be a mage? I want to do magic, too!" The older fox gives a non-committal noise and a little hand wiggle. "I don't know about that. I'm not a very good teacher."
Melody points towards Selena and nods. "She's got a point, though. Maybe these things happen to remind you that there is a world below the clouds!" She teases, tail swaying behind her.
Cara raises an eyebrow for a moment, "Didn't you hear Cassidy earlier when she called out to me? I happen to go by the name of Cara." She begins to blush for a moment as she lowers her head, "My last name is a little embarrassing though since it has a bit of an unfortunate naming to it." She looks directly at Brutus and immediately asks, "Is something wrong?"
Natska smiles at Lori, then gives Cass' shoulders a small squeeze. "I'm not terribly great at teach either, but perhaps between the two of us we could manage it. Or at least enough to get her started," she offers cheerfully.
Cirra blinks a bit, then looks to the two friends of hers. She signs. <I might be willing to teach her, if you two are not against her learning such.>
"That isn't my choice to make," Cassidy says with a shrug, looking over towards Lori, who is in turn looking quite excitable that it was at least being considered. "We'd have to check with our parents. See what they think. But I am sure if she really wants to, and they're okay with it, we could all find -some- way to contribute to it. You are certainly better at water magic than I am."
Brutus sighs, his saggy pectorals rising and falling with the deep breath he takes. "Ah, I have never been the...favored child of the House, and it has always been difficult to earn their respect. They do enjoy their...jests at my expense, it seems." He shifts his bulk about in the chair, looking down to Cara once more. "A pleasure to meet you, Miss Cara. If you would be so kind as to grab my robe," he continues, smiling unctuously as he gestures towards what looks like a full-size tapestry discarded by the poolside, "I would be most grateful."
Cirra nods, gathering up her stuff. <If a decision gets made, you know where to find me. So you late, Natska, Cassidy, Lori." She starts to head home.
Cara nods and walks over to the poolside for a moment and picks up the rather large robe. She looks at it for a moment, "Huh, this could fit a lot of people under it. Maybe I should make a blanket as large as this at some point." She begins taking the large robe over to Brutus after she drapes it over her shoulders, "Err, sorry about curling it up, "I'm trying to keep it from getting wet." She hands it over to him and smiles, "Don't let your weight get to you. It doesn't make you any less of a person." She rolls her eyes for a moment and continues, "I know it sounds cliche, but it's what's inside that counts."
Cassidy offers a little wave to Cirra, smiling. "Thank you for coming, Cirra! We'll see you around, I hope!" she says, nodding. And the shark isn't the only one to go! As the time grows later, others start to finally make their own way out and back for the camp in hopes of making the ship to pick them up, though others still remain, nibbling on the remains of food and drinks, or enjoying their conversations in and around the water.
"I don't think he's worried about his weight," Melody says, before pausing. "Are you?" She slips into her own dress again, setting an empty wine glass down on a table. "Brutus is a valued member of the family, even if he doesn't feel like it," she says, winking at the other skunk.
Natska raises a hand to wave. "Take care, Cirra! And feel free to visit any time you're in the area." She smiles,then stiffles a small yawn; after a moment she slips out of the water, sitting down at the edge of the pool.
Brutus's brows knit quite nastily as Cara tries to console him over his weight. It was a sensitive point and it did get to him--but what got to him even more is that she saw fit to bring it up unsolicited. She DID save him the trouble of standing up to get the robe himself. They canceled each other out, and he settles for an aloof "hm, yes, thank you," murmured to the tigress.
"Indeed," he replies with wounded dignity. "I feel as if I am ever working to win back their favor." Another hefty sigh. "I know perhaps I took advantage of the family name and prestige--but I have reformed! I am a new being! What more do they wish of me?"
Cassidy climbs up after Natska, sprawling out on the edge of the pool next to her with a yawn of her own. "Mmmf. I think it miiight be just about time to bring this to a close and get back inside," she murmurs, rubbing her eyes.
Melody passes by Brutus, giving him a gentle pat on the shoulder. "I don't know, but you sound like you lost their favour in the first place. That is certainly nothing I have heard. I think you're just struggling to get up a hill that doesn't actually exist. Anyway, I am going to make my way home now. See you later, cousin," she says, offering a gentle wave as she saunters off towards the gates.
Cara notices his slightly sour expression and she quickly begins to think for a moment, "It's not like you did anything wrong, right? Maybe they just want you to be around more often and listen to their feelings." She almost gives him a friendly pat on the back, but she stops. "Just try to take it easy and relax in front of others. Just relax and you'll probably figure it out on your own or they'll feel more open to talk to you about it."
Brutus heaves a mighty grunt as he makes his way back onto his feet, sliding the sleeves of the great tent-sized robe over his arms and trying to suck his gut in as he cinches the robe around his middle.
Offering a platonic hug to the hostesses, he gives his thanks--"you DO throw the finest parties, my dear Solaciouses, though I would keep a closer eye on the guest list were I you"--and with an arm around the still-dripping Hartford, the waddling nobleskunk heads off for the night, eager to rest up for the trip back to Sweetwater.
Cassidy reaches out to politely return the hug after pushing herself up to her feet. "Ahh, these parties are for everyone to enjoy Brutus. But the guest list usually remains tight just by virtue of who can make it out here. I hope you liked it, despite the... Earlier commotion. It was nice having you! Farewell, mister Blackback! I am sure we will be seeing you around the city!" She calls, waving after him before offering a hand down to Natska and a nod to Cara. "Thank you for coming, as well! Sorry to hear you missed the ship."
Natska bows her head to the departing guests, taking Cass' hand and getting back up. She waves and bids everyone a safe and pleasant evening, then leans against Cassidy and gently nuzzles her ear. "Mmm. Yes, it is late, but it was a good time."
Cassidy pauses to give each of her immediate family a hug, Lori moving to seek one from Natska just after her sister's, before they, too, make for the gate. "I'll see you in a day or two, I am sure," Cassidy calls after them with a smile before leaning against Natska in return. "Yes. This was a great night! And a successful party, if you ask me. I certainly have nooo complaints about how today turned out, overall!"
