You Are Formally Invited (Closed)

[Stefan Dornkirk]

The Ladies Sylana Dornkirk and Friederike Angevin had outdone themselves, or, rather, they had done their utmost to outdo each other in both austerity and sharp-toothed politeness, throughout the planning and execution of the rather sudden wedding of Sylana's eldest son to Friederike's youngest daughter.

The town, or at least the well-to-do families within it, was abuzz with the news of the upcoming nuptials of one of the most eligible bachelors to remain on the market for so long, as well as one of the most sought after young women to have also remained on said market. There were a few impolite rumors that, after having tried everyone else the two had been forced on each other. These were quelled quite quickly by anyone with a memory longer than the current season. It was a well-known fact that Stefan Dornkirk had been trothed to Delia Angevin since they had been children. The official engagement had never been announced and each of them had, from time to time, been rumored to be about to be engaged to this man or that woman, but nothing had ever come of it.

Now the engagement announcement came quite suddenly, with no time to throw any celebrations of the event and barely enough time to have proper outfits tailored for the wedding itself. The tailors to the rich and powerful were strained to their limits trying to create exquisite gowns and suits to show off those still looking for spouses, for everyone knew there was no better place to settle your own future than at someone else's wedding reception.

Who would, or wouldn't be invited was enough of a debate to keep the Ton in conversation for the week between the official announcement and the arrival of the invitation. No official list was posted, of course, but it quickly became known that there were some surprising additions, as well as some seemingly intentional snubs. Despite the gossip, every notable family was invited, even ones who would not be expected to attend. Each invitation was hand delivered by a liveried messenger to the person (or their Butler) it was intended for, timed to arrive at roughly the same time on the same day, so no one could say they had received theirs before or after anyone else.

Those who received an invitation was more than willing to show it off to any lesser relatives who wanted a peek but had not been considered worthy of their own. The ink was real gold, the paper the sort with a weight to it, thick and creamy. The lettering was stamped into the paper before it was inked raising it up in crisp, distinct, lines that would survive even after the gold had flaked off with great age.

The food was being created by a combination of no less than two famous chefs and the baker to the High Marshel himself had been lent to Admiral Angevin for the occasion. The decor was a combination of modern and classical styles that spoke to the taste and refinement of the couple (although they had very little to do with any of the choices), and their families. Angevin Manor was chosen to host the event, as it was the bride's home and therefore highly traditional.

When the day came, dawning bright and clear with just a hint of crispness to the early Ash air, all was in readiness. As the hour approached seemingly countless footmen and maids lined the gravel drive and entrance hall to greet the guests, all bedecked in new livery uniforms to match the colors of the occasion. Flowers were on every surface and many of the walls, tall, white taper candles were lit in every possible space, everything sparkled, gleamed, or radiated wealth and beauty.

It would be the Event of the Season.

Stefan will be responding to each person who comes to greet him, vaguely in order. Please read The Wedding for the order of events. Feel free to have your character arrive whenever you want them to, just please don't take any actions that would disrupt what has already been written. You can skip through the timeline in your post, reacting to different events and make drama with npcs or other characters (assuming they agree to it) so long as it wouldn't be enough to break up the events. Feel free to make drama with Stefan/Delia so long as it isn't big enough to be disruptive; be snarky as you like, the newlyweds have to be polite to everyone.

Any of the people invited to the thread can post whenever they would like to, I will be posting one response per person with Stefan. If you want to respond to things other people have written in the thread before you, also feel free, just remember that with this many writers you might not get a second post in the thread. Thanks!

[Tobias]

♅ 2nd Ash, 121, A.O.S ♅
Company: ???| Thoughts: ???| Mood: ???

---

It had been five days after the traumatic incident that Richard and Tobias had suffered, although it was problematic for them. Richard didn't want to be rude or anything as he insisted he bring his son to a wedding. It wasn't just any old wedding, but a fellow student's and a very dear friend to his. He was so proud of what he had achieved in his life, from coming from a poor background to now owning a highly profiteering business empire at the Windworks. It's clear that he wanted Tobias to meet him. A man who had gone through the same struggles throughout his life, from being orphaned to finding his way into the Order of Reconciliation.

Richard wanted to meet the man that made ends meet, for him to know that there are obstacles in life that must be encountered. He needed him to meet the epitome of the man that sat in his classroom. He knew he didn't have an easy life "Why are we here, father... Clearly you didn't tell me that this is someone elses wedding and I must be on my best behaviour..." He said with a chuckle, before Richard stopped for a second, noticing that he was to be seated along with all the other wedding guests.

Tobias sat beside Richard for a moment as he frowned, with a sudden flare of guilt in his eyes. He looked over at Richard as he leant into him, giving him a hug "I'm truely sorry, father..." Richard snapped as he looked over at Tobias "I told you, don't bring it up... Lets pretend we're happy and we can discuss it another time, but for now... I just wanna celebrate my student's wedding" He said as Tobias looked at him confused for a moment.

"What's so special about him? He seems like a pompous git by the looks of the way his venue is"

"You and him share something in common, Tobias..." He uttered. "You two are somewhat alike, believe me he knows what it's like to be poor, you'd learn alot from him... Believe me." He added curiously as the wedding music started, as Richard smiled over at Stefan, nodding and saluting to him as Richard, Tobias and the other wedding guests wait for the bride.

After the vows had been completed, all the wedding guests were invited to join them in the ballroom where the guests would greet, comment and congratulate the couple, whilst dousing into the hedonistic pleasures of confectionary, wedding cake and the sweet taste of alcohol. Tobias was often nervous at parties, he usually liked to keep his mouth shut and would often speak when he was spoken to. Richard smiled at Tobias as he nodded "Well, isn't it my star pupil..." He teased with a hearty laughter as he approached Stefan and his wife. Tobias stood behind for a moment as he vanished, only to find himself at the buffet.

He eventually grabbed food items to stuff his face with. He had a voracious appetite, despite his slender yet lithe figure. He has always engaged in gluttonous acts to consume food as well as feeling guilty afterwards. It wasn't like he would bulk up anyway as he took a strawberry and bit into it as Richard caused him across. "Tobias! And off you go vanishing to the buffet, don't be so rude..." He said in a playful manner as Tobias sighed yet again "Sorry, I couldnt help my self, I was worried the buffet would vanish into thin air..." Richard laughed yet again as he pats Tobias on the back "No wonder, the nannies use to complain about missing cupcakes, I'm surprised you use to eat them all" He nodded at Stefan.

"I've seen you've done well for yourself" He said with a chuckle as he took a moment to revel in his own sadness. He remembered his wedding day with his wife, Alice. It was the happiest time of his life. He frowned for a moment, although a fake smile rose from his face "Do forgive, I do miss Alice, but... Lets not let that dwindle the moment... We're here to celebrate the union of happiness" He nodded at them both. He wasn't himself as he was wrought with emotion. His trauma from losing Alice had resurfaced that night Tobias came back to him. Yet, he couldn't disown him. He loved him the same way he loved his own son, Alabaster; although he regretted the way he treated him, almost as similar to the way Stefan was treated by his father. He dwindled off for a moment "If you'll excuse me one moment" He said leaving Tobias with both Delia and Stefan.

Tobias nodded at them both as he took a moment to realise that it appeared Richard was gonna breakdown. He placed his hand on his father's back for a moment before he politely nods at Stefan "Sorry, he hasnt been well these past couple of days... Do forgive me for such swift demeanor, for I must go pick up the pieces..." He said as he followed Richard out for a moment, wondering if he had been crying again. It was thoughtful for him to come, but Richard didn't want to spoil the mood for the happy couple.

He found Richard sobbing outside as Tobias frowned, knowing the exact reason on why he was emotionally distraught. From then on, he grabbed him and shook his head "I think we should go home; talk about it... I'm sorry it's just... Lets go" He added, already as he escorted Richard towards a carriage home.

---

"Tobias Speech"
"Richard Speech"

[Stefan Dornkirk]

The line had begun with mostly relations, but was now a rather chaotic mix of people Stefan knew, people Delia knew, and people their parents had invited that neither of them had a clue about. So, it was a relief for him to look up at the next people in the line and see a face that he was not only familiar with but whose company he had enjoyed on numerous occasions.

Reaching out his hand for a warm shake he clapped his other hand over the elven man's,

"Richard! It is good to see you, thank you for coming." He sounded genuinely grateful, and his grasp on their hands was strong. Remembering his social duties he apologized,

"Oh, I am sorry. Lord Richard Zorrathy, this is my wife," He flushed a little at the use of the term, "Lady Delia An, Uhm, Dornkirk."

Delia smiled up at his slip, sweetly amused rather than offended, then turned her smile on Lord Zorrathy, greeting him politely and offering him her hand.

"Lord Zorrathy gave some of the best lectures at the University, and was always willing to answer the questions of an over-enthusiastic student afterward." He said by way of explaining the relationship to his new spouse. She nodded once she understood, offering polite words in gratitude to the man who had helped education her husband.

"And this must by your son?" Stefan nodded his head to the quiet young man behind Richard, leaning over to briefly shake his hand before the pair of men were pushed along by the next people in line waiting their turn to speak to the newlyweds.

Later in the evening, Stefan was speaking with Delia near the snacks and drinks laid out on the buffet table, when Richard again appeared, this time stepping away almost immediately, leaving his son with the couple. The younger man made an apology that caused Stefan to frown in sympathy, nodding and waving a hand to let him know that, of course, he understood and there was no need for apologies. When he went to follow his father Stefan leaned down and quietly informed Delia of the situation, the loss of Richard's wife and first child in horrific circumstances. He didn't give the details not sure if Delia would want to know such things, but enough that she wouldn't think the two men were rude.

[Anton]

Anton had never attended a wedding before and he did not particularly expect that to change, so it was with some surprise that when his parents had received their invitations to the union of Dornkirk and Angevin he received one as well. He certainly liked Stefan and considered the man one of his few friends, but the thought of someone consciously desiring his attendance at such a function was entirely foreign. It was not however an unpleasant surprise, and he eagerly attended to his mother when she reviewed etiquette for such occasions with himself and his sister. Their brother Karl was considered far too young to attend, but bright Amelia was just at the appropriate age to avoid the worst improprieties of youth while still receiving forbearance for any inadvertent errors.

Despite himself and his genuine love for his sister, it nonetheless stung that a girl nearly a decade his junior was experiencing such a public outing that he needed to wait so long for. Anton was not so churlish to blame his parents however, for he well knew that when he was Amelia's age he spent most of his days upon the brink of death. His ill-starred birth had robbed more from him than he had realized, both great and small, and every time it became clear that he had missed out on something ordinary or expected could not help but hurt. Guilt, too, plagued his thoughts as he attended to the myriad tasks for such an august occasion, for he well knew that his parents had also elected to avoid such outings while his life hung in the balance. Indeed, this would be their first social event unrelated to Franz's duties that either of them had attended since Anton's birth.

So it was that the main branch of House Michaelis adorned themselves in as refined of raiment as could be acquired upon such short notice - the family patriarch simply electing to wear his dress uniform. His Gelerian wife was shockingly well prepared for the surprise, selecting a gown in Imperial style from her closet within hours of receiving the fine invitations, Maria Theresa having clearly anticipated - or at least hoped for - a return to the social scene after her eldest son's debut. Anton and Amelia proved the trickiest, the children almost dressed in archaic court robes before a tailor living outside of the city proper was suggested by Franz's brother, Josef. The tailor worked almost exclusively upon the uniforms of military officers posted in or near his village, Josef's division having performed exercises in the area, the younger General Michaelis swearing by the tailor's skills.

For Anton the work was simplicity itself, the provincial clothier swiftly preparing a fine ensemble complete with vest and jacket with tails, though it was military cut. Amelia was another matter. Such a man rarely worked on and had little experience with dresses, let alone one for someone so young, but Maria Theresa was insistent that her only daughter would wear something bespoke for her first social event. An odd compromise was eventually struck, the girl provided what was essentially a military uniform in miniature, dyed a far more feminine blue. Franz in particular was delighted at the sight of his 'little soldier', and though the costume of course bore no rank insignia - the griffin head crest of House Michaelis embroidered in its place - father and daughter played at mock military courtesy as they made way their way to the carriage that would take them to the Angevin estate.

The wedding itself was lovely, though Maria Theresa seemed more intent upon taking notes on how to best Sylana's preparations when the time eventually came for her children's own weddings than on the bride and groom. Franz for his part seemed to pay more attention to Leir than the Admiral's daughter or soon-to-be son-in-law, which may have very well been Angevin's entire idea. Anton and Amelia however had no such complications, the siblings focused on the bride - which in reality meant that the blind man followed his sister's lead throughout the duration of the ceremony, playing the part of the indulgent older brother trailing behind his overly excited sibling. Activating Semblance here would almost certainly be a death sentence, leaving the mage well and truly without any guide save for scent, sound, and his family members also in attendance.

Contrary to some of the guests, the lengthy receiving line was one of the high points of the entire day for Anton, second only to the ceremony where he could just sit until told otherwise. Holding his sister's hand, all that was required of him was not letting her rush too far ahead as the pair trailed in their parents' wake, until at last they reached the newlyweds. Franz and Maria Theresa gave the proper bow and curtsy expected of them, husband and wife moving in sync with one another, performing the motions while still holding hands. The pair broke apart only to usher their children forward, Anton mimicking his father with a bow of his own while Amelia gave an all too serious salute to Lieutenant Dornkirk and his wife. The fact that Stefan had been retired for years meant as much to the girl as the fact that her uniform was not real. The line stretching behind them was far too long for Anton to feel comfortable having an actual conversation with the man, settling instead for giving his sincere congratulations to Stefan and Delia before leaving the couple to the next group of well wishers.

Once again contrary to some of the guests, Anton was not at all looking forward to the dancing at the wedding. He dutifully permitted his sister to drag him upon the floor and did his best to follow her lead while their parents enjoyed themselves, luxuriating in their first public dance in nearly twenty years. In due course, Maria Theresa fetched Amelia to introduce her daughter to the other ladies in attendance, Franz doing the same with Anton with the other officers invited. The conversation of the military men took a dark tone rather quickly however, and the general's son took his leave almost as soon as he was introduced as his father whispered matters of state security.

Making his way slowly and unsteadily upon the floor with only the sound of footsteps - and on that day he truly appreciated the hard [i[clack[/i] of fine shoes - Anton set himself down upon the first seat he could locate, bringing himself down directly next to Lady Perpetua, Eitan's grandmother examining all with a scathing eye. Courteously introducing himself, he found himself liking her acerbic temperament, her wit and honesty a refreshing change of pace from the guarded whispers and uncertain intentions of most of the city's upper class. The lordling swiftly joined her in the fine art of gossip until at last his mother came to introduce him to some of the eligible women in attendance.

Dinner was a welcome relief from the torrent of socializing and introductions, Anton thanking the Empty Throne that he managed to avoid any further dances before the meal was called. At last able to relax with his family in something approaching quiet, though their table was of course shared, he was able to fill in the gaps of his knowledge at the attendance list by listening to his family speak. Stefan seemed an accepting sort of man considering the unexpected guests in attendance, and Anton could not help but wonder how much of a fight the parents had given at some of the inclusions. Perhaps he would ask him next they met.

Toasts were given in an unofficial hierarchy, the social status of each man in attendance known and understood following the unspoken rules of prestige and convention. Relatives, of course, went first, but then rank and title became key. Franz was expected to speak relatively early, but when the time came, he simply placed a hand atop his son's, Anton giving him a short nod. Rising from his seat with a champagne flute in hand, he wrestled down his nerves as he made to speak. "I have not had the privilege of knowing Stefan overly long, but in that short period I have come to know him as an intelligent engineer, a kind man, and a true friend. I consider myself quite lucky to be able to call him such, and I will treasure the days we spent pouring over designs and formulae for the rest of my life. I know that you shall make the finest of husbands for Delia, and I wish the both of you all the happiness in the world."

And with the toast given he was finally free of any obligation, Anton finally permitted to do nothing more than converse and eat to his heart's content until it was time to go. Though he was physically present at the cake cutting for politeness' sake, he did find it funny for reasons he knew he was quite unable to share at the moment. The lordling enjoyed his dessert with a surprisingly large amount of coffee, his parents raising a brow but asking him no questions. His night was double booked, but he had seen no reason to concern them with that.

The four Michaelis in attendance remained until the very end of the night, present to watch the bride and groom depart the estate and make for their beds at last. Congratulations were again given, Amelia was unable to catch the bouquet despite her best efforts, and as soon as the doors to newlyweds' carriage was shut those who had remained decamped to their own vehicles. Anton closed his eyes the moment that he and his family were secure in their own, willing himself to get what sleep he may in the moment. He would need it for what was to come, for after seeing off his first friend's wedding he needed to make ready for his second friend's birthday.

[Stefan Dornkirk]

Looking up and seeing General Michaelis, his wife, and their two eldest children, was somewhat of a relief for Stefan, although he still felt the need to remain formal with the General and his spouse, at least. A moment of panic came into his head as he remembered her maiden name, but not her first name.

Glancing down at Delia, perhaps the whites of his eyes had been showing despite the placid smile that he had pasted onto his face as soon as they'd entered the ballroom and kept there almost entirely by will alone, for she took seemed to instantly understand his dilemma. Placing a gentle hand on his arm she leaned close and whispered;

"Lord General Franz, and Lady Maria Theresa Michaelis." Sweetly into his ear, quietly enough that it wouldn't be heard and with a teasing expression on her face so that anyone near at hand would think she was only flirting with her new husband. When she had pulled back enough that they could see each other once again Stefan gave her a real smile, briefly, in gratitude. She gave his arm a little squeeze and they turned together, reaching out their hands to be shaken or kissed, and then switching.

"My Lord Michaelis, Lady Maria Theresa, how very kind of you to attend, I was truly hoping to see you both here." It wasn't untrue, Stefan thought as Delia made her own pleasantries, though Stefan was fairly sure he had never met Anton's mother before, it was nice to have now done so. The woman's coloring and something indefinable about the way she gestured did remind him of his own mother. The association wasn't entirely pleasant, but he wasn't about to judge someone for the actions of another, entirely unconnected person.

When Anton was brought forward Stefan took his hand to shake it and then brought it to place on his wife's so her hand could be kissed without any oddities that might otherwise have been noticed by her, or anyone else.

"Anton," He said, warmly, "This is my wife, Delia, I hope that you might come and have tea with us some afternoon when you're free. We could discuss how your studies are going, your entrance project." Delia was nodding, adding her own words of invitation. She was beginning to take note of the way in which Stefan revived and became more alive when people he actually knew and liked came through the line. It was a subtle thing, for the eldest of the Dornkirk brothers had been exceptionally well trained, but there was a difference. It was her duty to understand him, as well as he would allow her, and particularly in social settings it seemed as though she might arrange things for his enjoyment, or at least lack of discomfort, in the future.

When the little girl, oddly dressed in uniform stepped forward and saluted Stefan, using his military title, he almost snapped to and saluted her back. He wanted to, but lacked the social grace to feel comfortable playing along in the situation. Instead, he bent down until he could take her hand and kiss it with the same level of formality he had given her mother. If he could not play her games with so many people watching, he could at least try and make her feel grown-up and special. Following his lead, Delia curtsied as to an equal and greeted her by name, which, of course, was the first time Stefan was hearing it.

The Michaelis' seemed to be quite a private family, which Stefan understood, thinking he would allow his own family such privacy to grow into their own persons if at all possible. It was something he would have to discuss with Delia in the coming months. They were of the same, or a similar mind on most things, he very much this was one such subject.

The line moved along, but Stefan did make a note to try and remember to actually send the invitation. He hadn't mentioned what he knew of Anton to anyone, not even his brother or his fiancee, now wife, and held no intention to do so in the future unless Anton himself asked him to. Stefan was invested in the success, academically, of his mostly-former student, and his success personally as one of the few genuine people Stefan had encountered of his own rank and standing.

Hopes that he might find the time to have a small conversation with Anton before the formal supper were dashed as he was led around by the proverbial nose ring throughout the celebration. It was not until midway through the dinner that Stefan was even aware of where the Michaelises had been seated. As Anton stood Stef stopped trying to drown out the majority of the noise circling around him and actually listened. The little speech was quite informal, and, though such personal sentiments being spoken in public were a bit embarrassing, he was still grateful for them. Delia looked at him, her eyes sparkling in what he thought might be a combination of surprise and happiness, and he gave her hand a brief squeeze.

Others, mostly men, also seemed to be taking note of the unexpected closeness that the heir's to two of the most influential families in the city appeared to have fostered. Even Malchior leaned forward to give his son a considering look. Lady Sylana would probably chastise him later for not having informed her of the connection, but he would weather that. In fact, he might be able to avoid it altogether since he would be living away from Dornkirk Manor and would be absent from the city for at least a month's time. The luxury of avoiding his mother when she had unpleasant things to discuss with him had never, heretofore, been an option.

The last time he saw Anton was at the send-off, though he was sure he had been present during the dessert hours, it made sense that he would have sequestered himself somewhere relatively out of the way. Stefan managed to clap his friend briefly on the shoulder as he shook hands and such whilst making his way toward the exit. It would be months before he might be able to make good on his promised invitation, but he had mentioned it to his body-servant, so it would get done, eventually.

[Dreyfus]

Company: Stefan & his wife| Thoughts: How Interesting| Mood: Calm

---

♅ Social gatherings were never going to be his forte, Dreyfus was well aware of this, painfully so. His name had circulated enough that many could recognize him by face, and the looks of disdain on them were enough to make him not wish to go out to things like this again. This gathering however came as a shock to the wolf as he wasn't truly expecting it. The invitation to Stefan's wedding of all things. He thought it was good in the long road, as he was trying to build relations between the families of Zaichaer and strengthen the ties of the ones the Monteliyets already had.

The ride to the venue was a long one, well at least it felt that way to Dreyfus. He found his nerves were causing him to begin to sweat, and for the life of him he couldn't figure out why. Realizing it was just another gather like any other he calmed himself and found the usual stoic expressing falling onto his features. He would play the part as heir to his family. As he approached the venue he prepared himself for what may come ahead. Crossing the threshold of the building, he immediately got the type of reaction he was most expecting.

His presence within the hall shifted the atmosphere drastically, as many had not known he was coming. It was a surprise he had become accustomed to from the socialites of the city. Seeing their hidden dismay, feeling their curious gossip, for the first time it truly put a wicked smirk on his face as he took in the sights. His eyes moved across the many faces that adorned the room. He could see many of the familiar faces he had seen at parties such as this here already.

Fixing his tie, he flowed through the venue towards Stefan and his new bride. If memory served him, she was Eitan's sister. It didn't surprise him at all the Dornkirks and Anvegin families were close. By the looks of the two they seemed happy, but part of Dreyfus couldn't help but this was more so a marriage of convenience rather than love. But he didn't know that and it would rude of him to assume how such a bond was formed.

"Congratulations on your wedding, I hope you have many years of happiness together and are prosperous." he spoke, reaching into the breast pocket of his long dress coat retrieving a box, opening it he revealed a necklace, a beautiful piece of fine jewelry, and presented it to Stefan and Delia.

"You'll have to forgive me as I had no clue what to give you as a wedding present, my aunts, however, said the best thing to do was to gift the bride something special. This necklace has been in our family for some time but as a way to build a friendship between the Dornkirks & Monteliyets, we feel it was the best we could offer. Plus it looks like it would be far more beautiful on you my lady than in some display case." he explained, allowing the box to pass to the hands of an attendant of the celebration.

Now that he was standing in front of Stefan he truly seemed happy, that this was more than just some obligation he had to fulfill for being born the eldest of his siblings. In a way, Dreyfus envied him a bit, but he found that no sane woman would want him, and only the craziest of Zaichaers bachelorettes would pursue him. Smiling the thought away he raised a glass that was brought to him."My this union bring more glory to Zaichaer and all of its endeavors, I truly wish you both nothing but the best. You both deserve it." with his toast he chuckled as it was truly not like him to be so festive, but it was a part he had to play. ♅

---

"Common Speech"
"Silandris Speech"
"Self-Thoughts"

[Stefan Dornkirk]

The arrival of the scion of Monteliyet caused enough of a stir that Stefan became aware of it. What, or whom, had caused the stir was not immediately obvious, but as Dreyfus made his way down the line to greet the newlyweds.

Stefan drew his breath in steadily, giving Delia a tiny, reassuring smile when a look of concern flowed onto her face. It made perfect sense that one of their mothers would have thought to extend an invitation to the noble house of Monteliyet, and perfect sense that it would have been Dreyfus who accepted it. The relationship, if such it could be called, that had been oddly forming between the two men wasn't something Stefan spent much time thinking about. Neither of them had intended to get to know the other, they had simply fallen into several, seemingly disconnected, situations where one type of connection or another had been required. Boxing at the gym, acting as an honorable witness at a duel, and the awful, loud, and ungrateful confrontation at the Windworks would have been things to feel odd about and then forget if each had been the only one. All three together felt like a pattern, one that he didn't understand. He was fairly sure Dreyfus was not manufacturing the incidents, or even could have, and yet, they kept running into each other.

At parties, such as the current one, it made sense. They could nod to each other across a room, but otherwise go about their business, sure in the knowledge that neither man was sorry for the loss of the other's company. Now, well, now it felt like that wasn't possible, though what should happen instead Stefan had not the first clue.

Realizing he had sort of fudged his way through the past two guests he was supposed to be greeting he snapped back to attention as the man himself came to shake their hands. Unexpectedly, a gift was pulled out and offered. There was a place to put gifts, but, as he had arrived after the ceremony, perhaps he had no intention of staying beyond the delivery of his, which would give him an excuse to make his exit immediately after doing so. When the small, velvet-lined box was opened Stefan could only blink in surprise. It was no secret that the Monteliyet family had significant old wealth, which included a good many jewels. The giving away of any of them seemed... uncharacteristic of the noble house. Perhaps Dreyfus intended to run it differently when he took over.

Delia stepped into the gap of Stefan's silence and exclaimed that the gift was exquisite, thanking Dreyfus with her charming smile that somehow managed to be sincere even while it maintained all the social mask required for perfect behavior. She was a marvel. The gift was a marvel too, but a much more confusing one.

"Yes, thank you Lord Monteliyet, I really wasn't expecting anything." He was being honest, a wedding gift from the man who he couldn't call friend, but couldn't call his enemy either wasn't what he had been expecting. When glasses were passed Stefan took one and complimented the well wishes with a simple "Hail Zaichaer."

Then the line was moving on again, a sea of faces he barely knew. Oddly, however strange and congested his thoughts on Dreyfus were, Stefan almost wished he were still there.

[Eitan Angevin]

For Eitan, this day had been a long time coming. He couldn't remember a day when Stefan Dornkirk hadn't been a possible husband for his elder half-sister, the youngest of the lot, and the closest to him in more than just age. Though he had only grown into a friendship with the man more recently, he had always felt a kinship with the Dornkirks through his friendship with Brenner. Their joint birthdays had been social events like this even when they were runny-nosed babes in arms. This was not an intimate affair, but few were in their lives.

He had been active in enacting this deal, this partnership in life, whether he was chaperoning the couple as they wooed or nudging them when they needed encouragement. As such, he felt responsible for the success of the day and for their future happiness together. Well aware there was only so much it was possible or correct for him to do in that regard, he knew he wanted to do it. And so he moved about in the background making sure things ran smoothly, seamlessly merging back into the flow of blue blood through the hallways and open spaces. He ate, he drank, and he was merry, dancing here, speaking there, but always alert.

Of course, one always had to be alert when swimming with the sharks. He should know, being a shark himself.

His teeth flashed at his grandmother, who was clearly sharing pointed opinions with Anton Michaelis. That made sense; she had encouraged him to befriend the young man, and he was trying to, schedules permitting.

Eventually, the time came for toasts, and of course, he deferred to fathers and mothers, to Brenner who had pride of place as his brother's best man.

"To be born an Angevin or a Dornkirk comes with privileges and responsibilities," he began, glass in hand, eyes on him. Public speaking unnerved some people; to have that many eyes on a person reminded them of things in their primitive brains, when all those eyes might very well be predators who sought to rend one's flesh and devour one. But he was a shark among sharks, and the attention didn't faze him.

"We all do what we must in order to deserve those privileges birth has afforded us. A part of me has always seen the Dornkirks as brothers, future in-laws if not men of the same blood. As children, we learned many of the same lessons, often side by side. Delia—my sister—has always been an exemplar for me, the happily dutiful child, understanding one's place, making the world better for everyone around her. Stefan—my brother—taking what his father gave him and building upon it, standing upon the shoulders of giants, and rising high as his airships. Tonight is an ending for many things, but a beginning for more exciting things to come.

"I look forward to seeing what this new union brings forth. It has been my privilege to play some small role in this. Please forgive my lack of eloquence tonight; for some things, no words will suffice.

"Please join me in one more toast and raise your glass to my sister and my new brother, to my friends, Delia and Stefan Dornkirk!"

[Jane Farraway]

Ash 2nd, 121. The Angevin Estate, Zaichaer

Jane felt a strange sense of closure as Stefan and Delia kissed, the feeling twisting in her gut as she joined the delicate applause that followed. She was not exactly sure why. Their friends and families surely felt the same, having been a much awaited union, but there was a note of bitterness to her own relief that was difficult to place. Whatever the feeling, it was unwise to unravel it at this moment and Jane instead focused the bright and joyuous atmosphere that enveloped the crowd. She glanced over to Carmen, who also seemed to hold a similar expression of mixed feelings. Jane could likely guess the thoughts behind it, but like her own it was best to be grateful for the invitation and to enjoy the reception as the joyous celebration as it was meant to be.

Clutching a small, white cardboard box, waxed and decorated with a golden floral filagree, she and her mother joined the line to offer their gifts and well wishes to the newly wedded couple. She tapped the box, pensive as she chose her words, while Carmen causally spoke to the others in line. Finally, they both approached Stefan and Delia, practically shining in all their splendor. Jane smiled first at Stefan and then Delia, givng her a gentle nod of recognition. In their youth, before Jane was sent away to Haqs, the Angevins had been common guests at the Farraway estate. Though Delia was somewhat older than her, she still humored her games during their visits. Aside from that, and especially after all those many years out of Zaichaer, they did not socialize deeply beyond the brief and rare occassions that they crossed the other's path. Jane recalled the Riverland Gala and how she and Stefan had spent the evening busying themselves with the exhibits, wondering, and dreading, if the now Mrs. Dornkirk knew or even minded. The warm glittering of Delia's eyes lacked a single ounce of resentment towards her which proved to be more frustrating than comforting. Regardless, Jane smiled, and was about to speak before Carmen swept in.

"Delia Dornkirk!", Lady Farraway said breathlessly, "Congratulations! I must say that you are, without a doubt, the most beautiful bride that Zaichaer has produced all year. It is so strange to think that you were once a little girl playing with my dear Camilla. There is no question that you will be a marvelous wife--and mother."

She then turned to Stefan, a wiry smirk barely concealed within a smile, "And congratulations to you as well, Sir Stefan Dornkirk. Your mother must be exceedingly proud. On that note, I believe I shall congratulate both Lady Silvana and Friederike while they are in a good mood"

Carmen laughed at her own joke and said her goodbyes, leaving Jane to speak with Stefan and his bride. She looked between the two, her eyes glistening, and held out the gift.

"Congratulations to you both! I'm so happy for you, Stefan--and Delia, I hope we can perhaps become more well aquainted. You may remember this from your visits to our estate."

Within the box was a handcrafted candy dish, topped with a delicate lid that radiated into a complex pattern of looping fractals that flowed down the bowl. It was crafted in Zeraphesh, made from their renowned glass that glimmered with exotic opalscence. It had once been in one of the drawing rooms of the Farraway estate and snagging one or two hard caramels was something of a routine for Delia and Jane during those visits. While the two young girls did not always agree on games, they could both appreciate candy.

"You were always so fond of this when we were children. I thought you might like to have it for your own drawing room."

Jane offered her parting thanks and excused herself to the powder room, though most would hesitate to call such that due to its sheer size. A long mirror, currently lined by a row of ladies as they fussed with their hair and make-up, covered the wall of a lounging area filled with plush sofas and tables containing tissues and minor toiletries for guests' use.

Weddings for all their glory were a time of grieving for some. Tearful ladies sat on the couches, dabbing their eyes with complementary tissues, lamenting the lost of Stefan Dornkirk from the roster of eligible bachelors. One in particular, Lady Annabella Striker, was especially shameless in her wailing as her older sisters attempted to console her.

"Why?! Oh, why?! I thought he liked me! We all went to that play, he kissed my hand! Oh, the letters I wrote! He just--he just--You thought he liked me too, right, Bethany?"

"Yes, Anna, yes, we thought so too", her sister flatly replied, her patience clearly thin.

More wailing followed. Jane grit her teeth and finally reached the ornate door of the small stall. Thankfully it was empty and she then found herself in dim solitude. That was when the tears that she had denied herself for so long came rushing out. She made no sound, forcing her sobs into strained breaths and letting her tears fall onto the floor.

Even now she was not sure why she cried. She was not in love with Stefan. There was never even a pretense of romance between them, and yet, there had been some hope, deep within thoughts that were too wild to humor, that perhaps a man like him could be with her. She then thought of Brenner, the wonderful visit they had shared during that day in Searing. The tears came harder now. What hope could there be with him, what hope could there be with anyone? And greater still, did she even want that hope? The posturing, the politics, the absolute banality of high society at large would be her prison while the promises of the Greater Institute would forever remain a forgotten dream. And yet even that was far out of reach, the Farraway's defunct pedigree forever haunting her. It was a game she had no chance of winning from the start, but was forever be forced to play. The cruelty of it all was unbearable.

A loud knock on the door startled her and she quickly composed herself. She avoided eye contact with the other woman as she passed her by, but she did not go noticed. Jane saw her reflection from across the lounge and it was clear why she had received the numerous stares. Her rosy skin was inflamed, her eyes red and watery with any trace of the makeup her mother had coaxed her to apply now cried away or smudged. She focused in on herself, ignoring everyone around her as she made her way to the mirror to at least make herself somewhat presentable. As she tucked away some stray hairs that had escaped her updo, Annabella snorted incredulously, her attention now on the creature she considered more pathetic than herself.

"Really?", she slurred, "As if YOU ever had a chance."

"I had more than some vapid play," Jane snapped. Annabella was instantly indignant for the sudden curtness, something that surprised Jane herself. She decided it was time to go.

The fresh air outside the powder room was welcoming and Jane hoped it would take some of the blush out of her cheeks. This hope was dashed as she abruptly crossed paths with Brenner Dornkirk of all people. Jane knew she had to have looked a mess and decided her best and only course of action was to pretend like nothing was the matter in the slightest.

"Oh, hello, Brenner. Congratulations, I'm sure you must be proud. The ceremony was truly marvelous.", They spoke briefly, but Jane was far too anxious to enjoy his usually charming persence.

"I know you must be busy, being the best man and all, so I won't keep you. My mother is also expecting me so I must be off--perhaps we can share a dance later."

Jane hurried off, somewhat guilty for cutting Brenner off so abruptly. Eventually she found her mother in the reception area talking with another widow, an elderly woman from a nigh extinct house. They both seemed to be mulling over a rather sizable family. Her mother brightened as she saw Jane, but instantly grew concerned. She placed a hand around her shoulder and gave her a warm squeeze.

"Oh dear, I've been exactly where you are right now. Such are the trials of a young lady...", she said with an affection that was still too condescending for Jane's tastes, "The best remedy for that is to look beyond. For instance, do you see that fair haired gentlemen?"

Carmen pointed to a lithe young man who Jane would have mistaken for a svelte lady had it not been for his garb. "That's the heir of the Michaelis house, Anton, I believe, "She turned to the widow she had been speaking with earlier, "Poor thing, I thought he was dead."

Jane overheard her and wondered if between his ghostly complexion and glazed eyes he really was dead. How fitting it would be that not even death could relieve a young heir of his obligations.

"Mother, I truly have no interest--", She began wearily as the old widow tucked a bony arm around hers and lead her to Anton. Apparently the woman was mutual friend with his family and introduced him to Jane. They grimly accepted each other as dance partners. His movements were well practiced but Jane found herself needing to guide them both away from waltzing into other pairs. Apathy was fashionable with young men, she reasoned, even at the expense of stepping on toes. As the conversation shifted to their interests, it was a great surprise to find that he was a student at the Greater Institute. They both touched briefly on their classes and while Jane did not know much about chemistry, Anton's musings had made her curious. Just as her interest was piqued, the song ended and they both parted ways to take other partners, as was expected, but not without promising to continue their conversation at a later date.

Brenner and she had found each other for the next dance. It was a slow song, much like the first dance they shared, something Jane could not help but remember. Time seemed to pass so quickly from the 15th of Searing to now. The expedition that he had mentioned during their visit loomed over her head; She knew that both he and his brother would be departing soon. As he held her hand aloft while they danced, she lowered her eyes and laced her fingers between his.

"I wish you the best of luck for your expedition. I trust that you will keep your men safe, but please take care of yourself. It would be a great loss to Zaichaer if you did not return...", Soon the dance was over. Jane excused herself from the floor and went back to Carmen, who chastised her for not giving more attention to the Michaelis heir.

Dinner was a bitter affair, though the food itself was excellent. She had found herself assigned to a table of strangers, though Carmen seemed to know most of them. They were guests who were not associated with any great house of Zaichaer, or like she and her mother, the few remaining survivors of houses long past their glory. The widow from earlier was one of this bunch and she talked and laughed far too loudly, spitting fine bits of lobster on the edge of Jane's plate. Jane wistfully gazed at everyone else she knew sitting with their families, wishing she could join them instead.

Eitan's toast caught the attention of the room and Jane listened as he sang the praises of Stefan and his sister, his usually stoic demeanor jubilant. That more than anything made an impression beyond his words, but they too struck her as he continued:

"Tonight is an ending for many things, but a beginning for more exciting things to come."

Jane reflected on this quitely and found herself able to smile, if not for herself, then for the friends she had made throughout the months. She raised her glass and drank, both for them and the hope she had for her future.

[Brenner Dornkirk]

Even for the wedding party... Even for the Best Man this all came in a rush. While Brenner, of course, understood the reasoning he was concerned it might look like a shotgun wedding. He'd have been loath to attend his only sibling's wedding in a costume he'd recycled from some other affair- Surely he'd have been caught out by someone else who'd attended. The attendees were of eclectic enough backgrounds that there would doubtless have been overlap with every function to which he'd worn finery in recent years. Fortunately, Brenner had a habit of collecting suits. He'd go to the tailor at least before every tour of duty or major mission and order something bespoke. There were several that had never been premiered, and one even fit the colour palette for this wedding! It had perforce become his look for this very evening.

He'd spent much of the day with Stefan and congratulated him almost as soon as he'd kissed the bride, so he was in no rush to push his way into his orbit just now. It still felt odd for him, all of this going down as it had... Part of him felt that he was losing Stefan to Eitan as much as Delia. As if he'd been supplanted by both of the closest people in his life who'd replaced him with each other. He would drink more copiously on such futile notions, but not before he gave his toast. He needed all his wits about him to deliver the edgy jokes he'd conjured without giving offence. This reverie was interrupt by the sudden appearance of Jane Farraway. He smiled,

"It was, wasn't it? I couldn't be prouder." He inclined his head, and bit his lip. "Oh! Yes, a dance would be lovely." He blinked as she rushed off, bemused, but content to reconnect later. Soon it would be the time for speeches, and later for more intimate encounters.