Hear Me Out!

[Hilana Chenzira]

The Vastiana didn't know how much further along the discussion it would go regarding Khyan's connection to Finn, but the Empyreal Lord had certainly made his point quite clear to her. A line had been drawn, and disrespect taken, along with complete and utter disapproval. But it was at least defused, and with the other Senators moving onto other topics. She grinned into her glass at the mention of Arvaelyn being a jealous lover. That was, quite possibly, the understatement of the century. She'd heard him loud and clear when he had been a baseborn Re'hyaean, and now that he was the Dragonborn Heir of the Draconic Dynasty? Hilana was not so inclined to even think that way. Not to mention the fact that he had been able to burst into the hospital wing when Finn had been treated...

'Jealous' was definitely minimizing that very real danger that was the Crown Prince of the Umbrium. Maybe there was less danger for one of these lofty politicians, but for everyone else...

At Janus' talk of gambits, Hilana kept her mouth shut. She could see how Æros came by some of his obfuscating linguistic skills. She had heard her father make remarks about how such was a learned skill, and she'd heard it in action often enough. Others were less polite: If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with camelshit, or so the saying went in the merchant lords of Tertium. "Oh, the villa in the Aurecine?" Hilana perked up at the mention of it. She still remembered those gardens and the enjoyable dinner and evening she had spent with Arvaelyn and Finn there. "The rooftop gardens," she beamed up at Finn before she remembered herself. "Did the Dragon's Blood plant come with you to the Umbrium, or is it still there?"

She was also rather glad that the silver Senator had made an appearance here, and the fact that he had spoken to her still surprised the Vastiana a bit... but she was delighted to have made his acquaintance all the same.

[Talisman]

"Isn't She, though?" Caellia smiled. "Secrecy was always the name of the game with Her Argent Luminescence. But far be it for us mere mortals to attempt to understand the way our holy Founders choose to make Their wills known. What is clear is that what is to come will be interesting indeed." There was no knowing and no telling just how the Founders would choose to address what had been going on, though the fact that Avaerys had marked the Amatus of the Crown Prince of the Lower City was not lost on her. If that wasn't a show of favour, then the glowing Sunborn didn't know what was.

If any such Emblems had been gifted to the members of the Luxian court, there was no doubt Thayla would have had them publicly announced to shore up faith in House of Sol'Avaerys, what with the way their Senate had hemorrhaged members as others had gone to the Curia below. "The Founders always did get on well with the Zalkyrian Dynasty. It does not surprise me that one of the first signs of favour to make itself known is associated with the Draconic crown."

"I am indeed, Senator," the Moonborn inclined her head to Janus. "I was saying that to Scipio earlier, that your House has done a beautiful job with this party, even considering the rather depressing reason for having it. I understand your firstborn is the one responsible for the lighting above with the Spirits... a marvelous touch, that."

"What nonsense," Rhoenna smiled at him. "I'm sure your own affair will be delightful, and I look forward to receiving the invitation, Master Finn." Success followed experience, after all... and considering the Kalzasern bard clearly knew everyone worth knowing, the guest list was certain to be impressive. And oddly, the girl who had spoken up had clearly been there before, which made the Moonborn Senatrix eye her thoughtfully. If she was acquainted with Finn, and had been in that villa... she may also have known the Crown Prince. "I don't believe we've met, Miss---?"

"--Chenzira, Domina. Hilana Chenzira," Hilana bowed to her, sweeping out the glittering fabric of her lehenga neatly before she straightened.

[Finn]

"Acta non verba," he murmured in agreement to Hilana. Of course, politicians were known for verba non acta, but Finn was glad that he only had to deal with it at parties where wine was always on hand. "Oh, I brought the Dragon's Blood myself!" When he hadn't been certain the servi would bring it, he had been prepared to carry it himself, which had scandalized them. In the end, a servus had taken it from him and promised to take great care with it in the journey underground the the draconic palace.

Finn beamed at Rhoenna, happy to know that his first foray into hosting a high society party would likely not be a bust, even if people were only coming to earn favor with Arvaelyn.

He noted Janus turning away, attempting to alter the flow of the conversation. Finn didn't fight it. The elf's relationship to Avaerys' was his own. The bard would be only too happy to be elsewhere, or at least wearing Sentinel blacks and keeping an eye on things without participating, but here he was. It didn't seem to matter to the hoi aristoi that he and Hilana had been handpicked by the Founders; they were still seen as satellites of luminaries rather than casting their own light. Well, so be it. The both of them were young, scrappy, and hungry, and they weren't going to give up their shots to make a difference in the world.

The young human wondered what the elves here present would say if Avaerys arrived and told them how little he cared for elven supremacy anymore. He almost laughed - almost.

This was how things were done in Solunarium, and Avaerys was also happy to delegate the particulars if not the imperium. A part of him did hope Arvaelyn would show up, but then his presence would make people think certain things were true.

[Aeros]

TIMESTAMP: -
NOTES: -

- - -

- - -

The night’s purpose was meant to be split between levity and gathering information; perhaps the spread of it, too, but Finn’s invocation of the Void Lord’s name– Shæoth– had greatly thrown Janus off. Æros had told him nothing of the sort, and even those with a mastery of Semblance saw no trace of His involvement; the boy had only mentioned their Founders, and about Them, he had been vague, but insistent, emphatic. The elder Sælyan’s immediate reaction was to change the subject, but it did make him wonder: if Shæoth was involved, and if Æros was to be believed, what deal had the Founders made with Shæoth? Was that where the wayward slave had gone? Hm.

But still, were his suppositions to be correct, Janus was even harder pressed to understand Finn’s vexation about the loss of his thrall– because really, what value was there in the life of somebody so…replaceable? And then, such a deal brokered through the hands of the divine was beyond the purview of mortals uninvolved, was it not? Regardless, it was a headache the subject was broached at all; it made him wonder why Æros had invited somebody with a bone to pick that was, to him, so pointlessly petty. He’d chide him on that choice later.

Nevertheless, the politician made no further outward expression of distaste; he was, if anything, cordially dismissive as the conversation moved along. And when Rhoenna addressed him, he gave her his full attention.

He smiled, something genuine, appreciative, at her words. “Such high praise, Senatrix; I’m glad you think so.” he’d nod.

“And yes, the spirits are managed almost entirely by Palæmon; he and Æros came up with the idea together. They wanted something a bit more novel, interactive, even, to light up the night. Palæmon claims the spirits he summoned are playful little things, creating their own revelry alongside us. I’m a fan of the result, too,” he continued, appearing perfectly pleased to praise his kin.

And he spoke the truth– with each one of them emitting an innate luminosity, they set the obsidian interior of the manse aglow in an array of colors, soft and gentle like moonlight, yet possessing of jovial, impish energy. Sometimes, the spirits would float down and interact with guests, should they appear willing, and more often than not, they’d encourage indulgence, finding amusement in mortals slowly shedding their inhibitions.

To Hilana, he’d nod. “Hilana’s the source of some of the refreshments here tonight, actually– particularly mezcal and prickly pear mead in some of the cocktails.” the statement half directed to Rhoenna as way of explaining who she was, and half to Hilana herself. “She brought some along as a gift to Æros once, and we’re quite the fans.”

Janus didn’t know much about the girl, but he did appreciate her resourcefulness and…whatever it was about her that managed to consistently keep Æros’ spirits up. Further, she offered them many gifts of fine food and drink, and the greenhouses over which she presided allowed them to purchase, serve, and enjoy a variety of unique ingredients. Even if she wasn’t needed due to the esoteric nature of the tether she shared with Æros, he was happy to have her in attendance.

And finally, to Lyrios, he’d nod. “It was.”
-

To Fenryl’s words, Æros tilted his head, expression inquisitive, while Scipio kept his features more austere.

“She is, indeed,” Æros smiled weakly. “And perhaps it is audacious, but I do find matters divine fascinating– I struggle to stop myself from seeking understanding, even in the face of the most impossible obscurities,” he’d punctuate the sentiment with the exhale of a sigh, something that was almost a laugh, but ever so slightly too pained to be. His insatiable curiosity had gotten the better of him many times, clumsy as he could be.

“Nevertheless, I choose to believe that since They halted the process of my death, They’ve some sort of faith in me. So whether or not others believe that claim, I look forward to what the future holds, and to whatever role I am able to play in it.” And this time, his smile was more broad, hopeful.

Scipio could only hope that Æros was right. And really, he did– he believed his step-son, and it brought him some semblance of peace that the boy had been given a second chance. Æros had such potential; it would’ve been a tragedy for his life to have been snuffed out so early.

With regards to what Cællia said about the Founders and the draconic dynasty, though, Scipio appeared thoughtful.

“It is of no surprise, but I do hope for balance. Even if divided, we are still one nation, yes? Too much favor in one direction could breed civil unrest between solar and lunar, and I…fail to see the benefit of that, much as my own favor skews heavily draconic.” The pale sunborn spoke smoothly, but his words were woven with caution.

Æros sighed. “I agree with you on principle– would be a shame if we were to become mired in arguments betwixt our two halves rather than looking forward, outward. I am, however, fascinated to learn who else the Founders will favor going forward,” he did, by the end, speak with some degree of excitement.

- - -

"Vallenor Tongue/Speech"

"Vastien Tongue/Speech"

"Valasren Tongue/Speech"

"Common Tongue/Speech"

[Pharaoh]

“Well, your positive outlook is to be commended.” Fenryl replied, mildly didactic, to Æros’ suppositions about the Founders’ intentions insofar as they pertained to his particular circumstances. “I find optimism is a useful lens through which to observe the world, as long as it is tempered with due pragmatism. Though I personally find it is often better held as private as a Waning Prayer.” He wouldn’t elaborate upon nor go into any further detail with this bit of advice, punctuating it with a sip of sparkling wine and excusing himself to peruse some of the evening’s visual delights while they were still on offer.

At Janus’ affirmation, Lyrios smirked to himself with a solitary nod, and no further comment. His pale eyes turned toward the attending sentinels though his ears were perked to the discourse happening around him. He was learning much this evening and perhaps more of it lay between and under than within the words being exchanged.

“Mezcal?” Evandrys arched an eyebrow and wrinkled his nose, “Is that what this is?” He glanced to his drink, inspecting its colouring through squinting eyes. “House Sælyan continues to push the limits of conventions. I know this spirit is favoured amongst those scions of Vastium who yet meander the sands, but I’ve not known it to be often served in the Holy City.” He shrugged, “Far be it from me to begrudge a novel addition to my practised palate, but it is worth remarking upon as a matter of interest.” This last was delivered to Rhoenna before, halfway through the thought, he turned his attention to Janus. Evandrys’ attention to the ingredient, drew Lyrios’ interest toward Hilana.

“Dragon’s Blood plants, mezcal… are we to infer that Ms. Chenzira is a daughter of the desert to introduce its bounty to the capital?”

[Hilana Chenzira]

The Vastiana was quite pleased that Finn had brought the elegant little succulent with him to the Umbrium. She had always wondered if it had made the trip down, or if it had been left behind in the gardens of the Luxian villa. That answered that, and she was glad of it. Chances were it was being well-tended to, what with the resources of Finn's lover and his family, and the capabilities of Runeforgers with making lights that would do well for that particular plant. Even if Arry was as busy as anything with his new role, and Finn busy too with his... it was nice to know that her gift was in good hands. "We have some ashoka growing along nicely. I'll bring one by for you... It's native to your homeland, and it can flourish with a runeforged light down here, too," she smiled up at her friend.

She nodded in agreement when Æros' Uncle mentioned her contributions to the party. She had indeed been the source of the prickly pear syrup which went into the cocktails, considering how often she enjoyed being out in the sands and sourcing the sweet fruits. When Hilana got on a good spot for those pears, all of her friends benefited from her efforts, because even now, the girl liked to keep herself busy. And she could teach Lykos more of her nomadic culture and traditions with them... even if he and Lia had insisted on using magic to clean the pears rather than the old-school way that she had originally taught them. Still, she wouldn't complain.

"Gratias, Senator," she bowed her head to the Patriarch of House Saelyan. She'd nearly used the wrong title for him, but since he had reassumed the seat left vacant by Æros' physical departure from this coil... "It was my pleasure. There was a very fruitful patch of cacti for the pears about five hours' south of Solunarium by camel, and I was in the area to collect marigolds and check on some hives that we have up there." At Evandrys' query, Hilana glanced to his drink to confirm and nodded. "That is mezcal, yes, Senator. My father decided to start a distillery a few years ago in Tertium, keeping to the traditional ways of distilling the spirit. We use a number of family recipes that have been passed down over the generations... It is an opportunity to introduce this spirit to those who are not so used to it, but I do hope that you enjoy it," she beamed at the Sunborn. She had to stop herself from going into the details of how it was made, from the plant itself and where they grew them, to the process of its creation... that was going to go too far. But those who were observant, or knew her well like Finn did, could certainly see that Hilana was trying to keep herself in check. "If I may ask, is there a flavour profile that you prefer?" Perhaps some sort of customization could be made and a cask delivered. It never hurt to try to make a good impression.

But Lyrios' interest threatened to tip her from that balance of just enough information to too much, as the young woman could tell he had her pegged. "Yes, Senator. Or, at least, I'm trying to. I am from the nomadic tribes, though I was recalled to Tertium a few years ago and came here to the Capital last Searing to round out my education and training as a doctor and herbalist." Among other things, but those didn't need to be revealed to everyone around her. Finn knew. Janus knew some of it. But some things were better left held close to the chest... or behind the wards that Princess Cithaera had given her.

[Talisman]

Caellia's expression didn't change at all at Æros' words, though she was certainly capable of reading between the lines of what he was saying. It wasn't always what was said, after all, but how it was being said. But the young former Senator said plenty for the experienced Sunborn to pick up on, and she only sipped her drink. When the Consul took his leave, she inclined her head to him, and raised her glass. "Until later, Cousin." She would not be surprised if he made his way in the direction that their former colleagues had gone, within the orbit of the Amatus of the Exalted Highness of the Umbrian Court. There was no missing that crown upon the young Peregrinus, and it was a shining beacon to all of those present.

"Let us hope that you are right," her lips quirked at Scipio's words about equality and the importance of balance. "There will be no unrest between the Courts. Such things are not allowed here, not in Solunarium. These may be interesting times, perhaps untested and unexpected... but the more things change, the more things stay the same. Thalya may be many things... but openly challenging the Crownwyrm? No, not even she is so bold... or foolish, depending on how your view is." And she knew her well, perhaps better than most who were in attendance at this soiree.

"That being said, the Founders are apparently making their presence known slowly, with their boons and blessings, and you've met them... if They had a problem with what was going on, then They could certainly say so. They've not deigned thus far. If someone would be aware of Them, it would be His Exalted Majesty. They say that Avaerys was present at his hatching, you know. The Dynasty has chosenthis time to act, after millennia of remaining in the Thalamum Draconum. Platinum Dragons represent Order. They will not allow the chaos of unrest. Not here." The Senatrix's tone was mild.

The Moonborn Senatrix's eyes went back to the ceiling at Janus' words, and she nodded along. She could certainly understand the spirits and knew his words to be true thus far - they were indeed friendly, and this was a bit of a game to them, too, thoughtful. She might just put that trick in her back pocket for another time. "Quite clever indeed, and just as one might expect from a House of entertainers."

"There is something to be said for innovation," Rhoenna agreed with Evandrys, looking his glass over as she, instead, had wine. A glance towards a servus meant that a tray was brought over, and she took one of the crystalline glasses. "Stagnation is a terrible fate, isn't it? Something to experiment with indeed. Smoky... mixed with sweet... That does tend towards a classic combination... hm," she raised an eyebrow and sipped it, letting the flavour dance on her tongue. Definitely different than anything she was used to. "We shall see if such a thing might just take hold here." She also knew that she was uniquely situated to help usher that along. An order might be in the cards to set her mixologist to it. Among other company, she might have teased Evandrys about being the resident expert on all things alcoholic; but in front of these two humans... it was improper. Especially in front of someone so well-connected as Finn... not when both of them had impressions to make upon the Magnatus.

"Speaking of your homeland... how does it fare? Have you been back for a visit since the fell circumstances have darkened the world beyond our borders?" She wasn't about to miss the fact that Hilana had brought the subject up, and that gave them more of an opportunity with Finn.

[Finn]

"Oh, thank you," he replied warmly. While the servi grew uncomfortable when he tried to tend to his house plants himself, he at least could enjoy them, and Hilana was always thoughtful. Today, she was even being circumspect, which was probably for the best. Loose lips sank ships, they said, and he could get away with more being the prince's paramour and a peregrinus who didn't know any better.

"Ah, sadly no, Domina," he said, replying to the senator once Hilana's attention had been taken up elsewhere. "It didn't take long for Solunarium to claim my amatus and, by extension, me. Then the outer darkness made travel more dangerous and it didn't seem like the time to go. But soon... on the first of Searing, His Exalted Highness and I will be in Kalzasi for the coronation. And I shall get to see my parents and siblings again..." Though they would not be at the coronation, of course. They were merely hunkering down with relatives in the city since Kalzasi's power didn't protect their outlying villages from the Eclipse, but he wasn't going to say that.

"His Exalted Majesty bade me invite them to visit Solunarium, so I shall pass that along to them. I don't know how they will react to a draconic king inviting them to visit his desert realm across lands and seas." He paused and offered a rueful smile. "I hope I can offer them enough mesmeric support to prevent apoplexy without offering too much so they overstep." But he laughed. Families were complex things, even if his felt simple enough by comparison to his lover's.

Best they meet before a wedding took place.

"In any case, I may seek to persuade them to settle here. They raised me and I ought to support them now. And it doesn't matter who applauds my art or respects my service to the Vigilia; a part of me will always want my parents' approval more than anything." His smile softened as he offered Rhoenna something real amid the pageantry of the party.

[Talisman]

Review

Name: Aeros

XP: 20 Points, may be used for Possession
Injuries/Ailments: None
Loot: None

Name: Hilana

XP: 20 Points, no magic
Injuries/Ailments: None
Loot: None

Name: Finn

XP: 20 Points, no magic
Injuries/Ailments: None
Loot: None

Name: Pharaoh

Mod XP: 16 Points (8 Posts x 2 XP)

Name: Talisman

Mod XP: 16 Points (8 Posts x 2 XP)

Notes: The thread is old enough to close it.