Donnelly Wedding Bash
Log Info
- Title: Donnelly Wedding Bash
- Emitters: Andelena/Dolan/Zeke
- Place: Fernwood Pub
That two such earthy people might throw a wedding ceremony such as the one those present had witnessed today is - farfetched at best. Simple in construction and yet grand in presentation, after the style of Myrrish pageantry, it had been a confection of flowers, fabric, and a whole lot of ritual, not all of it in the Trade language. It had been beautiful to watch and boring to listen to, for the most part, held on the lawn before Daeus' altar in the middle of the temple.
Dolan wears a high-collared white shirt beneath a doublet dyed in a rich harvest gold, trimmed in white silk and adorned with a double row of brass buttons and finishings. His trousers are an ochre color, tucked into new-looking leather boots, and his stylized dragon pendant has been shortened on its thong for today to rest on his breastbone, just above the first closure on the doublet, and the choice of eye for today is selected to match it, in all its amber-golden glory.
Perhaps most surprising of all is that Andelena's wearing a dress to her own wedding. It's a sleeveless one like the garment she'd worn to the party that followed Auranar and Verna's wedding, and it's in colors to match her groom's, gold accented with white to break up the wall of metallic sheen. Her own amulet of Daeus hangs over her heart, the neckline of the dress low enough to allow for it. Her waves of red hair has been braided into two large braids that hang over her shoulders, easily the most she's done to her own hair in a very long time. Her steel-gray eyes are entirely on Dolan's natural and artificial eyes, smiling brightly, for this is a day that's been waiting for a very long time.
Beyond the couple stands their chosen officiant. The tall blue-scale sith-makar makes for a sight all on his own. Rather than his usual simple cleric garb the sith is fully decked out in armor and tabard bearing the gold sunburst and white cloth of Daeus's faith. Where they are resplendent in gold and white, his colors are almost purposefully reversed, giving them the sunlight they deserve to stand in. Zeke for his part looks a guardian of the ceremony. These two warriors unarmed; but not unprotected.
The vows themselves are simple enough, and heartfelt, almost lost in the ritual, but finally, the ceremony is done, and those present are directed to retire to the Fernwood Pub, which has been rented out in its entirety for the occasion. Anyone expecting the holy trappings of the wedding ceremony to spill over into the Fernwood, however, is very quickly proven to be wrong upon entering the place. The tables are decorated with plates of food for people to pick up and snack on. No lavish and overstuffed feasts here, just plain baked goods, meats, cheeses, and finger snacks such as might be found in the markets. Indeed, the crowning glory is the pile of mugs and three kegs set aside and tapped for the evening, a white wine, a red wine, and an ale, all of local brewing, and none bearing the marks of the locally popular brewer Blue Moon.
And of course, the bride and groom arrive, but Andelena's already changed out of that dress she was in. The braids are gone and her hair's let down, and the dress has been exchanged for a well tailored, but comfortable, long tunic that's belted at the waist. Dolan is less free, but has eschewed the doublet and sleeves, leaving only the high-collared shirt beneath it with its matching brass buttons, and the thong has been let back out to allow the dragon pendant to hang just a little longer.
"Okay everyone!" Andelena bellows, getting everyone's attention. There's no polite clinking of glasses to be had here. It's the Fernwood, after all. "There's only a few things to remember! First things first: Don't get handsy with my man, okay? No sudden movements, no fucky shit, nothing of the sort, either. I don't want to have to throw someone out because they decided to pull some stupid shit at my wedding."
A wide grin blooms across the mobile half of Dolan's features at that. "Same goes for my wife, yeah?"
Andelena grins at her newly-minted husband, and then she points at the kegs in the rented-out Fernwood. "Secondly, and this is really fucking important: there's a one drink minimum. We're all getting plastered and having a good time. Just don't be a fucking idiot. Don't drink more than you can handle, otherwise you're gonna have to find your own way to the Soldier's Defense to sleep it off or something."
Finally, she looks to Dolan with a wide grin. "Okay, baby, you ready?" she asks. Because there is a cake to cut. And presumably, someone's face is getting shoved into it.
It's different from his own wedding. But then again, people are different. And Telamon understands this, probably better than most. It was a mad dash to get home from his little trip, get changed (along with Lana) and ready. He still feels a trifle... ruffled. But... when there is a victory, rejoice, and this IS a victory.
And so Telamon makes a point to put out a nice big box of alchemist's kindness packets, because he knows some people will need them. Probably himself included. But once that's done, he sits back, and watches with a big grin. Because this is what matters the most.
"If I ain't, may the gods help all of us," Dolan answers with a warm chuckle, leaning in to kiss Andelena on the cheek. He gestures around at the plates of food decorating the tables. "Proper food first, though. I'm famished." He offers Andelena his arm, gesturing towards the food plates.
For a moment Zeke stays close to the couple, but they are soon to be mobbed he is certain so he makes his words quickly and rumbles quietly to the pair. "Let thissss one be the firssst to offer the congratulationssss." He says softly before duly heading toward the alcohol to stare at it intently. It's clear that he's not really sure what to drink since there is a 'rule' about 'at least one drink'.
"Me-fucking-too, babe, I'm starving. I had one bite to eat earlier, and I could stuff my cheeks full now," Andelena remarks as she takes Dolan's arm.
Then she blinks, grins, and adds, "I'll be doing that later anyway, so--"
The rest of what was surely to be a terrific dirty joke (and really, not that far off from the truth, considering it's Andelena) is clipped off when Zeke offers his congratulations. Andelena grins from ear to ear. "Thanks, Zeke. And ahh--you don't have to drink if you don't want to? I'm sure there's something nonalcoholic around here somewhere. Bartender'll probably get you something if you wanted."
This is, very likely, the first time that Rune has attended a wedding of a friend. Much of her experience with them is from required attendance within Llyranesi society, or outright avoiding her father's most recent re-marriage after her mother's death. This, however, is a happy occassion! Rune had sat through the ceremony as respectfully as possible, though the girl is an endless fidget so it is likely she got a few looks for just not quite sitting still.
The after-party at the Fernwood is far more her speed. Rune is dressed in a simple dress of blue and white, slit up the side and sleeveless, though it does cover her back entirely. She is already in the process of claiming a mug of ale when the 'rules' of the event get called, and it causes her to quirk her lips in amusement. Beneath one arm, she has something wrapped up in simple paper packaging. A gift most likely.
Mikilos is in his regular grey robes. They're magic, good for any occasion. But the magus has taken care to clean up, no lingering reagent stains or half fogotten vials in a pocket. Maybe a fully forgotten vial, maybe. The elf also carries a head sized oak cask, a wedding gift, which he peers around for a proper place to set.
Harkashan, admittedly, does not know Dolan and Andelena as well as he really wishes he did. However, there are enough shared experiences that warrant a visit here to fix that grave injustice.
Harkashan is wearing his full armor. Adorned in the usual lava stones and with his weapon peacebound at his side. His armor is his comfort. Long languid steps bring him further towards the food during the announcements and requests - a bemused chuff drawing from him as word of a one drink minimum is given.
Once the announcements are done, he steps up to Zeke first instead of the two newly wedded ones, and rumbles a sound of greeting to him. Lifting a hand, showing it first, before putting it on Zeke's shoulder. "It is good to see you again, Kin." He notes, before he proceeds to step towards Dolan and Andelena.
"Peace on your Nest, and Ancestors blessing on the eggs, your mate, and offspring." He bids the two of them. "The Dragonfather blesses you both, may you have many more years bearing their protection." Though the first part is oft said as almost a greeting, this wish comes with a firm prayer like tone.
Andelena catches Zeke by surprise as he's checking out the various casks and looking at them in utter confusion. How does one choose between such things? He offers her a low grateful nod and then is surprised when someone approaches not the couple, but himself! He shifts his tail in pleasure at Harkashan's greeting. "Peasssce on your nessst." He rumbles pleasantly in response before gratefully getting the bartender's attention for a cup of tea.
As Dolan and Andelena begin to settle in, Telamon deftly collects a glass of white wine before ambling towards them first. "And here we are," he says with a grin. "There is something to be said for tradition -- even if it occasionally feels like a drag. Congratulations, you two. I moved your wedding gift over with the others -- let me know what you think." His starry eyes twinkle merrily.
"Thanks." Dolan is still grinning like a fool as he acknowledges Harkashan, and probably will be all evening long, even the scars that cover the right side of his face curving and distorting to accommodate the joy he can't hide. There is a table off to one side that is not festooned with food, or flowers, or anything else, just a simple white and gold linen tablecloth that would seem to be appropriate for the leaving of gifts. They do not appear to have been especially fussed with fancy decorations.
More importantly, they'd forgotten something, and Dolan quickly steps away to whisper to a largely idle bartender, where other drinks are available if the kegs do not suit. Water for tea is quickly produced in a kettle in the kitchen, and shortly tea will be ready.
That done, Dolan returns to the general conversation, coming up on Andelena's left side just as Telamon speaks. "Yeah?"
"Hey, thank you," Andelena responds with a wide smile to Harkashan. "Peace on your nest as well. I think Bry here's mentioned you before--name's Andelena Donnelly." The new name is delivered with a wide, wide grin to match Dolan's. "As of a little bit ago, anyway."
Dolan slides up to her and she wraps her arm around him by the waist. "Hey hubby," she whispers gently to Dolan, before she looks at Telamon and gives him a nod of acknowledgement in addition to the grin. "And hey to you! You're not the only married man around these parts anymore, starman."
Zeke finds a comfortable place to sit, relaxing with the cup of tea that was politely seen to him and he curls his tail around the stool that he'd found. It doesn't stop the genuinely pleased flicks of his tail now and again though, or the happiness for them that shows in his green-eyed gaze. It's clear that he cares about this couple very much.
Harkashan rumbles and nods to Zeke as he bids him welcome, and answers with a; "Peace on your nest." As well. His tail swishing in further greeting.
There's something unique about the way softskins get during weddings. Those big expressive smiles of theirs. It's so easy to read their adoration and love for one-another. It's such a sweet thing.
As Andelena addresses him, he bows his head politely. "Harkashan." He answers her. "We've met a few times, but we never properly met met." He expresses - "The last time we saw was at Soldier's Defense." Shifting his position a bit so they can stand with Telamon more easily.
"Starman?" He then rumbles bemusedly. "It seems Aelwyn's behavior of nicknames is rubbing off on people."
With drink acquired, Rune follows the path of various partygoers as she adds the gift to the others. Then, after a stop by one of the tables to swipe a bit of food and neatly pop it unceremoniously into her mouth, the rogue moves to approach those gathered around the couple. She offers a warm smile to them both, "Hey Dolan, congratulations."
There is a certain shyness in Rune as she inclines her head to his lady wife as well, "I don't think we've ever properly met, but your husband has saved my ass from the fire a couple of times, and from myself." She smirks, "I'm Rune. I'm usually hanging around with this one." She pokes Harkashan in the side of his shiny armor. "I'm glad you both found each other. It's good to see Dolan smiling."
Mikilos sets the cask on the side table. Mead from his own brewing, not quite honey for a honeymoon, but a step away. Taking a glass of red wine, he heads towards the couple of the night, waiting for a break in the well wishings to offer his own. "Congratulations, may your comming days be as happy as this one."
Telamon laughs softly. "My talent, Harkashan. Plus my old night owl tendencies, and preference for stargazing." He offers Hark and Rune a happy smile, before turning back to Dolan and Andelena. "A half dozen bottles of Rosalian grappa. It's a strong drink, but I've always been fond of it -- in moderation." His eyes twinkle. "It goes best as an after dinner drink." As if remembering 'oh yeah, I have one', he takes a sip of his wine, and hmms. "That's good. It's hard to get good grapes until three generations have passed -- not of plants, but of the vintners."
"Rune and Harkashan have been companions on several of my Guild jobs when you've been stuck in the Temple, Andie," Dolan explains, turning that grin on each of them in turn. "Thanks, Rune. It's good to see you both here, glad you could come."
He hasn't moved from his hold on Andelena as the others come to congratulate them. "Thanks," he offers to Mikilos, lone flesh and blood eye blinking in puzzlement, and surprise. "Mikilos, was it? We've only met a few times, but I'm glad to see you here, nevertheless."
Telamon gets a warmer grin still. "You'd know booze better than anyone, Tel, and you're right. It just takes time to refine the process. All good things get better with time, yeah? And speaking of booze-"
He extricates himself gently from Andelena's grasp. "I'll get us both something to eat and drink, what do you want?"
"Yeah, I like giving nicknames to people I know well," Andelena replies to Harkashan. "In Telamon's case, I've had to change his nickname a few times because, well, first time I met him I thought he was just a jumped-up noble's kid, so I called him kid. Then the bastard went and got married, so I called him married man. But now, I guess he's just starman now on account of his magic."
She looks to Dolan with a smile. "Get me whatever you think looks good, baby. I'd probably gnaw the leg right off a fucking goat right now. I ain't picky. As for a drink: first keg of booze you reach, just pour me a drink."
She regards Rune too with a nod. "Well hey there. Yeah, Dolan and I actually have been a thing since we were teenagers. But now we're finally married in the eyes of the Knight, and eventually, we'll get around to having a pack of kids."
Andelena then offers a wave to Mikilos. "Hey, if it ain't the tallest fuckin' elf in all of Alexandria! Thanks for dropping by!" she says.
The party is not - quite - interrupted by the late entry of another party-goer. The man is fairly short with short brown hair and blue eyes. He's fairly fair of face, and looks a bit rumpled though he wears some of the finer fashion familiar to Selentia. He looks around the room and heads immediately for Andelena with a mixture of confusion and displeasure on his features. "Andelena!"
The moment that the man enters the room and starts heading for Andelena, Zeke is on his feet himself. It takes a moment for the large sith to get to his feet, but it doesn't take him long to get to the group surrounding the couple.
Mikilos snorts softly, but smiles, looking sidelong at Telamon. "That depends entirely on the length of your generations. But I do agree with the general accessment that good wine takes time. A single batch might get lucky, but any level of consistancy takes years of effort... and good luck with the weather."
The confused and displeased arrival, whoever he is, gets a similar confused and displeased look from the objectively tall elf.
"Hrrm, yes." Harkashan shifts his hand to touch over Rune's as she pokes at his armor, turning to look at her in a sweet way. For a Sith-makar. Tongue goes mlem, tasting the air.
Then, in looking back to Andelena, he notes; "Then may you one day have a name for me as well." He bids, showing an interesting in getting to know her better. Though perhaps right now is not a time to steal her for lengthy conversation. There are others here who no doubt will want a moment with her.
He does note; "Pack? Ah, I see. So a group of softskin children is a 'pack' - as ravens to a Murder. Very lupine." He seems to approve. Even if he misunderstands this as an official term.
Stepping aside, he nods at Mikolos, before looking aside to Zeke as he joins the gathering. "How've you been my Kin?" He inquires with Zeke. The last time they saw eachother was a rough time for him. "You know, if you would not feel awkward traveling to Am'shere, there's some matters I could really use your help on." He bids to Zeke. Leaning on a Sith-makar is easier for him than to reach out to friends sometimes.
It doesn't take Dolan but a moment to retrieve a plate of light bites for him and Andelena to share, and two mugs of ale from the keg, but Gale arrives while he has his back turned, and when he turns back, Gale has already approached the group. He wastes no time hurrying through the mingling back to Andelena's side, everything melting out of him when he recognizes the man. "Gale? Sweet and holy gods, when did you get here?" he calls, striding up to join them and handing his new wife her mug.
He hasn't completely lost his wits, though, and narrows his eyes, scanning the man.
Telamon can't quite hide the expression of surprise on his face. But he immediately rallies, and his next step takes him 'accidentally' in front of the fellow. "Here now, good sir, you need to be calm. This is a wedding celebration, after all. Deep breaths, that's a good fellow. Why don't you try the wine? I grant it's not Selentian, but some of the Alexandros vintages are coming along nicely." His dark eyes glitter with starlight. "I don't believe we've been introduced, good sir. I am called Telamon Lupecyll-Atlon. Whom am I addressing, perchance?"
"Yeah, I think we needed a bit of a break from the jungles. Brought you some things from there, though. Neither of us are crafters, so some lizard hides and rare spices will have to do, I hope." For Rune, it seems that while she is dealing with her anxiety in regards to the Makari lands, being home in Alexandros still comes as a relief, and being there to congratulate friends seems to brighten her moreso.
Blue eyes turning to Andelena, Rune smiles to the heartwarming story, "That's really sweet. Sometimes you find the right person and it just clicks, right?" Her head tilts. It just so happens that Harkashan's hand touches hers at that moment, and the half-sil gives the lava-scaled Makari a wink.
And then, between the name being called out and Zeke rising, the motion draws Rune's attention around towards the arrival. "Uh... friend of yours?" She asks, seeming uncertain, especially with everyone else seeming to react as if this may not be a pleasant surprise.
Andelena blinks a couple of times with the arrival of the man who is shorter than her. "What the--Gale?"
She takes the mug that Dolan hands her and downs a large sip of it, holding it tightly in her hands. There's a moment of confusion, like she's not sure what to do here.
"This is my older brother, Galon Calogref II--or Gale for short," Andelena announces to the crowd. "Who... Well hells, Gale. How'd you get here?"
"I am Galon Calogref the second." The man says as Telamon interposes himself neatly in the way, his eyes narrow you. "You seem familiar sir, but if you will; I would talk to my sister and find out why in the name of all that is holy I find myself in Alexandria!"
Indeed he seems a bit put out by the situation. "First that man was holding me in this tiny little room talking about having freed me from some enchantment - which I remember nothing of - and then he was shoving me out and telling me to find Andelena! I find it highly irregular!" This is mostly to Andelena; more than Telamon.
Zeke relaxes somewhat as Harkashan addresses him, offering a shift of his tail and setting aside his tea for the moment. "Sssa." He replies and then seems to think of the request. "Thisss one doesss not often go to Mictlan, but Am'Shere issss... More pleasssant." A flicker of uncertain emotion. "Thisss one would be honored to offer aid Harkasssshan. Thisss one will come."
When Rune looks at him with that wink, there's this sweet and slightly high pitched churr that comes from him. His posture lifting a bit, and a more happy look entering his entire expression. A little croon follows and he squeezes Rune's hand a bit. A more expressive manner than usual. No doubt driven a bit by being around softskins and the need to over-express around them.
Harkashan's shoulders then drop in a relaxed manner a bit when Zeke offers that he would come to him with Am'shere. He can only imagine, with what little rumors he heard, what Mictlan means to Zeke at this point. "I appreciate your assistance, Kin." Harkashan rumbles warmly at him. He will Tell him later why he needs his help. But right now, it seems a Brother has appeared.
Kin of Andelena's, he comes to understand. But why the tension and confusion?
Of course, Harkashan doesn't fully understand the situation of Andelena's family.
Mikilos relaxes a step as Gale is introduced. Likely no violence. But the tale he tells certainly catches the wizard's attention. "Doesn't sound like a Guild job, they'd follow through." he muses to no one in particular. "Too much missing information to properly speculate what's actually going on." Falling quiet, the wizard listens for additional details.
"That so?" Dolan turns his entire face to Zeke, and the look he favors the lizard with is filled with gratitude. "You magnificent b-" He stops short and wears a sheepish grin. "You magnificent shaman. You did it." He holds out the plate for Andelena, turning back to Gale. "Oh, there was an enchantment on you, all right. You stopped being a complete prick for a while there. Tell me, are you still pining for Rida?" The gaze on the short brown-haired man is unerring, skewering, even, although the words hold humor.
There's a sound of a hand hitting a face. No, it's not Gale getting slapped. It's Telamon facepalming. "Oh boy," he mumbles. "I am going to..." He cuts off his out-loud musings, and instead pastes a slightly fixed smile on his face. "Well, sir, it's clearly providence and the will of the gods that you're here to wish your sister well! After all, regardless of ambiguities and arguments, family is always family, and it's good to at least be on polite terms!"
He beckons for Gale to sit down. "Please, take a seat, sir, I'll get you something to drink and eat. You must be famished."
"Aww. Hey Gale." The voice that Andelena uses to address her (apparently older) brother as she looks down at him--as she is taller than him--is more like the voice she'd use to talk to a child. Or a small dog. Which, maybe in her eyes, he's one of those, if not both.
She just knocks back another drink of her mug before she sighs and says, "Yup, just like Bry said--you're back to your old self. Surprised you didn't grab a rapier on the way here to challenge me or some shit. Unless you did and you lost it on your way here trying to put your hand up some girl's skirt, you absolute fucking buffoon. You come here to my wedding party, and--"
Then she narrows her eyes. "Okay, yeah, I'm pissed that you decided to fuck off from whatever little hidey-hole you were in just to shit on my parade, but you said you were sent here? Why? Who sent you?"
Gale looks at Dolan and tilts his head. It's hard to tell if he even recognizes the other man. It seems unlikely, but he doesn't seem best pleased until Dolan's querry and then he all but laughs. "A woman? Come man, you know as well as I that women are hardly a distraction worth a weekend in most cases." He rolls his eyes and they land on Rune. Suddenly his swagger is in full force. "Hey there pretty lady."
As if he hadn't been insulting women only a moment before. Telamon deftly steps in and Gale looks at him gratefully. "After the ordeal I've had I'd appreciate a drink - or three! What's all this then about anyways?" He waves to Rune. "You're welcome to join us." A wink.
Andelena's venom has him stalling on the way to the table though, rounding on Andelena. "Wedding party? You went and got married? To who? You and your foul little mouth sister. Here you! Give me your weapon!" This is directed at Harkashan who has the most obvious weapon. "It's about time I taught her a lesson. Father should have taken you across his knee more often you ungrateful-".
Zeke has the grace to look embarrassed by Dolan's words and he makes a gentling motion with his hands. It wasn't really him that had done it after all but... Zeke looks at Telamon and then seems to realize something. "Thisss one..." He makes a few steps toward the door. "Thiss one jusst had a thought. Thisss one will return when thisss one can. Peasssce and happinessss." He repeats these last words a few times as he heads for the exit. Things seem to be heating up behind him, but he can't stay.
The identity of the strange individual that seems to be making a rukous of the celebration has Rune taking a step off to the side, then taking a long swig of her ale. Seems like most people have some sort of family problem, though it is hard for her to guage the exact type that this one poses.
When he starts one sentance saying women aren't even worth a weekend, and ends it on trying to flirt with her, she looks from Gale to Andelena and raises a brow, "Class act, this one."
So, she offers up this, instead, stepping in front of Harkashan, "How about we go get some food and drinks, huh? Whatever beef you have with your sister can wait for another night." Rune motions at the food and kegs, "I had intentions on a good meal, celebrations, and getting a wee bit plastered tonight. So why don't we do that, aye?"
As the situation quickly starts to turn sour, this man acting like that to Rune, and asking for his blade, Harkashan shifts his body. Raising his posture to his full height, wearing his full armor, and stares down at him similarly to how Andelena does.
Rune can protect herself. He doesn't need to speak for her. But his hand touches over his blade. "See how this one is peace-bound?" He begins, before turning his gaze back to Gale. "If I were to remove this tie, the blade would be undeterred from harming one who dishonors those who have invited us here as guests." He answers Gale calmly.
Rune steps before him, and Harkashan lays a hand on her shoulder. "Be careful with this one." He whispers to her.
Telamon steps away, but he's quietly saying something to the bartender, who looks a little... bemused. But then a bottle is procured, and a large mug is filled with it. A quick step to the table to grab an assortment of foods -- a party platter, really -- and Telamon is deftly setting it down, before placing the mug. "Glasses are all well and good, but sometimes you really want to appreciate a wine."
Gale seems to be oscillating between anger, confusion, and a desire for good food and booze, and so Tel nudges him towards the third and maybe the second. "Come now. No gentleman causes a disturbance at a wedding. It's bad luck, for starters. Have a drink."
Mikilos sighs and rolls his eyes. "Events like this really help appericate the sanity of my family. Lady Donnelly, if you'd like him turned into something that can be ignored until tomarrow, just say so." Telamon seems to have an out, but might not work, or last.
Without hesitation, Dolan steps in front of Andelena. "You'll speak respectfully to my wife or I'll beat your ass, you little goat dropping," he snarls. Mikilos' offer earns the wizard a sidelong glance, though, if a short one, and a small smirk. "You're also stupid," he informs Gale. "You've just crashed a party to which archmages are invited, and are making an ass of yourself." Some of the anger fades, replaced with humor. "Lay one finger on anyone in this room, Gale, and I'll allow the mages to do what they want."
Andelena can only smirk as Dolan steps forward. "You know what. I'm pretty fucking tempted right now to take the archmage up on his offer. If you turn my absolute fucking oaf of an older brother into the tiniest little kitten there ever was, that'll be the damned highlight of my wedding party."
She looks at Gale now. "Listen. You got options here, brother. Behave, or you've got a room full of pretty powerful people who will not hesitate to emasculate you so fucking hard that you're gonna be sitting on ice for the next ten years. Get some drinks and sit down, or get turned into a toad or some shit--and that's if my husband here doesn't sock you so hard in the gut that you're coughing up blood as red as the wine. We gotta deal?"
The Goblin arrives late, breathing heavily, the flush in her cheeks speaking to either the distance or speed she has run. Her face has a light sheen, a testament to the thickness of the mists outside. She peeks her head inside the door, and then quietly steps in. Her summer dress, a pale sky blue in colour, is adorned with cloth flowers on her shoulders, which stream sky blue ribbons that flow behind her as she moves. In each of Simony's arms is a silver-foil wrapped object, easily guessed as being large bottles.
She hovers around the periphery of the gathering, looking for familiar faces, and noting with an expression of concern the current tension in the room.
Gale blinks at Harkashan, then laughs a little. "I don't need it free of it's bonds. I just mean to teach her a lesson." He shakes his head and his blue eyes brighten as the others attempt to do their best to pacify him. Drink, food, companionship? Gale has always appreciated the easy side of life, and he seems ready to let his anger fade in the hopes of living the easy life. Dolan gets a short look then. Right up until it sinks into Gale's thick skull that Dolan is the one his sister has married. The thought leaves him utterly dumbfounded.
Finally he waves a negligent hand. "Never did have any sense sister. Marrying a man like that?" He snorts. "Don't worry little sister, I don't intend to fight your man. It wouldn't be fair."
With that he offers his arm to Rune and turns his back on the newlyweds.
Telamon looks like he wants to explode, and in fact is having some trouble getting his expression under control. Although there's a moment where Dolan remarks on archmages plural, and Tel almost reflexively looks around with a comical sense of confusion before realizing yes, Dolan also means him.
Rune can take care of herself, and Simony's arrival actually does a bit to relax Tel a little. He sighs, then, and looks at Andie and Dolan. Confession time. "...I thought they'd keep him at the temple at least one night," he says in a slightly defeated tone.
With an arm offered out to her, Rune accepts it. Those who know her would understand that she has no interest in the man in question, only in trying to keep the peace at an event that is meant to be a celebration. "Looks like my ale is running a bit low. Let's go get it topped off and grab some food." She invites warmly enough.
"Seems like you have quite a story to tell. It sounds as if you don't remember how you came to be in Alexandros?" She may just be trying to shift the man's attention, creating some topic of conversation to keep him occupied so the others can return to the festivities.
Mikilos hesitates a few moments to asure himself Gale really is walking away, and shrugs, glancing to Dolan. "I suspect he's right that it wouldn't be a fair fight, but not the way he thinks." Telamon's comment catches his attention, and the elf steps closer. "You arranged for Gale to be... 'distracted'? I don't object, just making sure there isn't a seperate player doing things."
"Yeah. Don't know why they didn't, unless they couldn't stand his snot-nosed bullshit either," Dolan answers, watching the man turn his back with a smirk. "Enh. He's a coward and a bully. He knows damned good and well I'll beat his sorry little ass to a pulp."
Still, he turns his whole face towards Mikilos. "Archmage, I'd love for Rune to be able to stay and enjoy the party. She and Harkashan deserve better. Would you mind?"
Simony's expression lights up as she finally spots Telamon, and she weaves through the crowd towards the Half-Sil. She offers an awkward wave to Rune, trying to keep the bottles from jostling about.
The Gobbo finally makes it to Telamon's side, and she stands patiently, waiting for a moment to announce herself.
"Hello Telamon!", she says cheerfully, blinking and immediately lowering her voice. "How are you doing? Errr... is there something wrong? That was quite the expression you had a moment ago." Simony huffs and shuffles the bottles so that both of them are hugged to her side with one arm. "Where.. where should I leave gifts?"
Gale smiles warmly at Rune, pointedly ignoring the others who might be talking behind his back. "Indeed I do not! In truth I do not remember much of the last months." Here his brows furrow and he finally shrugs, walking Rune to the kegs. "I must have been having a bit too much fun. Here, take this seat that this gentleman pulled for me, and I'll get you a share of food and drink."
He waves a hand to the bartender, fully expecting the other to serve him and Rune and sits down.
At this point, Auranar exits the kitchen smiling and bearing a tray of tiny little pies. "Sorry I'm late with these!" She calls out to the guests and sets them on the bar. "They're still a little warm, but come get a pie! They're all fresh fruit, and hand-made!"
Telamon runs his hand through his hair, and seems about to comment, but then Simony's there and he takes a knee so he can give her a hug. "Ah... family troubles. It'll be all right. You know how it is. You can pick your friends, but not your family."
Standing back up, he walks with her over to where the wedding gifts are neatly stacked. "Here we go. How're you doing? I went by the monastery the other day but they said you were off on a Guild job, very hush-hush." He makes a face. "Never a good sign. Can I get you something to drink?"
Mikilos nods to Dolan. "Certainly, but what works best? A statue for 24 hours? Teleportation to a distant land? Mention of Mamma Rosie's half-off half-covered ladies weekend special? I don't want to cause further troubles later on, and am not familiar enough to make the call myself."
"Don't serve him," Dolan calls over to the bartender, jerking his head in the direction of Gale and Rune, and finally taking a swig of his own ale. "Me, on the other hand - Aura, you shouldn't have!" When the pies come out, their aroma filling the air, that's got his immediate attention. "Actually, wait a moment, Mikilos. I want to know why he's here, if he was supposed to be in the temple tonight, and who in the Iron Hells let him out and why. He's not evil, and he's the Gale I remember, but -"
He trails off that thought, because pie is important. "Auranar, it's good to see you," he greets. "Thank you for all of this."
"Auranar!" Andelena yells out with a smile. "Hey, thank you, that's terrific. Come on in--"
And then she realizes something.
She's inviting Auranar into a party where her lecherous older brother is currently active.
"Oh fuck me sideways," she mutters. She stares down Gale to make sure he's not about to switch targets.
Simony giggles lightly, happily trapped in the hug. She clears her throat, her voice dropping low, "So they're a bit of an ass? That's kind of... rude, to try to spoil Dolan and Andelena's day, isn't it?"
Each wrapped bottle is carefully set next to the other wedding gifts, the Goblin making sure hers don't hog the limelight. "I am well, how are you and Cor'lana? Is she here also, or running a little behind?" A pained expression washes over her face at the mention of a secret guild job. "It was terrible.", she says hoarsely. "We're still trying to save the remaining survivors we'd been sent to check up on. I uhm... should really use a strong drink." She leans into Telamon once more.
"Too many people doing incredibly dangerous things, in the name of advancement... asking if it can be done, and never... should it be done?"
As she walks beside Gale towards the kegs, Rune spots the familiar Goblin and raises a hand to offer a greeting. There's a quick shift of her eyes towards her male companion and then she rolls them back in an expression that clearly communicates that she's stuck with not so pleasant company. Even so, she puts on a smile when she turns back to Gale.
"What was the last thing you remember before awakening here?" She asks, showing some measure of curiosity. It's hard to tell if Rune actually cares, or is just intel gathering for her friends. "I imagine someone must have told you about the festivities tonight, otherwise I wouldn't have been graced with your good company." She bites at her lower lip in a suggestive manner.
Rune gets a pleased smile even though Gale has been thwarted in his efforts to get some service. He spares a glare at Dolan; offended, and then turns his attention back on Rune. "I was getting ready to leave this morning. To be fair that's a bit fuzzy as well. I was getting ready to leave for the day and then... nothing." He sighs at his hardship. "It's been a night I tell you. After that man pushed me out I had to go wandering the streets looking for her! I'm lucky some poor soul had heard about this blasted 'party'. When mother finds out she'll be furious."
Auranar smiles at Dolan and Andelena. "It's nothing really." She says embarrassed, plating two for the newlyweds and bringing it over. "I heard a bit of commotion out here while I was pulling the pies out. Everything is okay I hope?" Luckily she doesn't seem to notice Gale or Gale her.
Mikilos nods, perfectly content to sip wine for the moment. And grab a fruit pie, because those look delicious.
Telamon winces at Simony. "That... happens. Reminds me of one of my first Guild jobs." He squeezes Simony's shoulder. "If you need to talk about it, you know I'm always happy to help." The two head over to the bar. "It's a one drink minimum, by the way, and -- oh hey, Aura!" Tel grins, seeing his sister-by-bond come out with a tray of pies. "Aura always makes excellent pies and tarts," he advises Simony.
"Lana's here, she just had to duck out for a little bit. Evidently someone from the theatre desperately needed to ask her something -- I hope she's getting tapped for another reading there." He's keeping an eye on Gale, and Aura, as he collects drinks for Simony and himself.
"Why does this remind me of something? Something about villains giving up their evil ways when confronted with fruit pies? I read it somewhere, some storybook when I was a boy..."
Andelena overhears from afar Gale's explanation and... She looks baffled. "He really doesn't have a damn clue," she murmurs to herself. "Yeah, he's a fucking idiot, but..."
She looks back to Auranar. "My asshole older brother's here," she informs her. "Apparently he's looking for me. Which is a relief, considering everything the family's been through lately, but, well. He's an asshole."
"Nobody worth mentioning." Dolan turns his head to look over at Gale and then back to Auranar, taking one of the pie plates in addition to his drink and the plate of snacks. He picks up a piece of cheese off of the plate in his hand and offers to feed it to Andelena, grinning up at her. "Never mind that. The spell's broken and I'm not picking up any evil. Zeke's friend must have gotten him out or something, although - I think Tel knew about it," he murmurs. "Maybe Tel knows what's going on. I'll ask him later."
Once Andelena has been fed, he feeds himself with a will, alternating real food and pies while it's still warm. He bites down into one of the pies, and closes his eyes. "You'd make a killing in the market, Auranar."
The albino suppresses a laugh at Rune's rolling of eyes, Simony offering the Half-Sil a jaunty salute. "Good luck!" she mouths, before following Telamon to the bar. "I would talk with you, just to inform on the ... advancements that Alexandria is working on." She blinks, peering up at Telamon. "I'm a one drink maximum.", Simony says with a snort. "After one, I revert into a gremlin, and no one's ankles are safe."
The Gobbo's eyes widen at the sight of Goblin-sized fruit pies, and she smiles to Auranar, a hand reaching out at random to take one of the little pies for herself. "Thank you very much!", she says, cheerfully. About half the pie is bitten off in one go. Chewing and swallowing, Simony grins. "Gosh, Auranar, they are delicious!" The other half is inhaled as quickly as the first.
Nodding to Telamon, "I am sure Cor'lana will get here as quickly as she can. Isn't there a saying about you arcanists? You are never late or early, you arrive precisely when you mean to?"
"There's been a fair bit of strangeness around Alexandros and beyond as of late." Rune comiserates with Gale, giving a soft shake of her head that sends her dyed hair slightly moving across her brow. "It's a shame you've somehow been caught up in it, it seems." Her brows lift, showing sympathy. "It must be very confusing to be one place and then suddenly somewhere entirely else, losing the time in between. Still, it seems good that you're back to yourself." Rune reaches out a hand to try and touch his.
"You said it was the person who freed you from the enchantment who pushed you out of the temple? That really does seem quite strange. I imagine they'd want to give you time to recover properly." Her eyes do a quick up and down then look away again, still playing into her act at the moment. "Though, I'm sure you likely didn't need it. You're clearly still hale and healthy."
"Wizards are never late, nor early. Sorcerers, however, are frequently fashionably late. Bards have great timing. Artificers don't understand the question." Mikilos clarifies. "Or such is the way I've heard it told. Others may have a different view of matters. The important thing to remember is it's okay that they're wrong."
Gale is more than happy to let Rune hold his hand, food and beverage forgotten in the face of delightful - and attentive - company. He seems quite the social sort. "I don't know why he was in such a rush to get me out of the room. Drew his sword and everything! You would think I had insulted him somehow. But that's nothing the matter now; you're quite right. I'm hale and healthy, and probably always was. The man's probably crazy." He smiles at Rune and looks into her eyes. "Perhaps while I am here I could go hunting. I've heard that the hunting here in the woods is excellent."
Auranar only looks more and more embarrassed as she amasses complements. "Oh! I just knew that Dolan likes pies and wanted to do something nice for the wedding.... Goodness Dolan! Here let me hold a plate for you?" She offers her hands.
Telamon watches Rune wheel the fertilizer wagon up and start manuring the fields. He can't help but grin at the sight, before turning back to Simony. "Er... to be honest, I've heard it but I never understood where it came from. It sure isn't true about me -- I have to work to be punctual."
Having picked up a pie from Aura with a smile and thanks, he chews on a bite contemplatively. "It doesn't surprise me that Alexandros is experimenting. We'll discuss it later though." He snorts at Mikilos. "Now see, that makes a little more sense. Well said, sir."
"Please." Dolan is more than ready to hand off a plate to Auranar, setting his own load down on the bar top and gesturing Andelena to do the same. "I'd better get some food into me. Baby, I ought to tell you -" He pauses, picking up a slice of meat. "I've got a gift for you, but it's a little big to bring here. I had to have it delivered to the flat. Hope you ain't mind." Again, his grin is huge, his good humor seemingly restored. He is now pointedly ignoring Gale.
Andelena eventually just shakes her head and smirks. "Well, hell. Okay. I didn't think he'd actually settle down and behave," she mutters to Dolan. "Although it looks like I'm gonna have to buy Rune a round of drinks later or something."
She downs her drink and then grins at Dolan. "A gift too big to bring here? Is it your dick? No, don't fucking answer that, I'll find out later, hot stuff, and I'll look forward to it." Yup. Now it's Andelena back to having fun.
The Gobbo's eyebrows go up, a wee hand lifting to wave at Mikilos. "Oh, hello Archmage Mithralla. How are you faring? I must say thank you for your assistance, in answering my questions. The information came in very useful. Many lives have been saved." Nodding, she smiles to the man, and then to Tel. "Well, my purview lies along clerical and divine lines. I'll keep it in mind in future."
Simony holds up Telamon's drink, having snagged both while Half-Sil speaks with Mikilos. Her nose wiggles as she sniffs at her drink, and after an inhale of breath, her drink is quickly drained. "That is very tasty...", she says with a smack of lips, before her face scrunches up. "Oof... really strong though."
Coming in from where people were dancing and carousing was an interesting and shiny sight. A tall and looming silverscale makari sparkles in, scales polished to a glimmer with lines of gold paint drawn across his face, arms and tail. His tunic and pants were of a slightly nicer sort, but nothing overly so. But the most obvious feature was the three sets of two maracas tied on his tail. So his gait is announced with a tempo'd shaka shaka, shaka shak.
"Friendsss!" he greets with a wide smile to the group, a giantborn sized tankard in his hand. Some frost mars his cheeks. Swaying slightly. The walking ice cube is drunk.
"He brandished a sword at you? Just out of nowhere?" Rune raises a hand to her chest in all the response one might expect of a fainting damsel, "That's dreadful!" If nothing else, the half-sil knows how to play into her appearance. Few who hadn't seen her decked out with weaponry or skulking through the forest would spot her as a potential danger. "I'd have a word with the temple. Maybe even a strongly worded letter." Because that's what a noble lady would think is the proper etiquette in such a situation.
Rune is definitely going to be owed some drinks later.
"Oh, you're a hunter of some renown then?" She asks, leaning forward with mock interest. Some part of her reaaaallly wants to suggest he go hunting in the Felwood. Then again, getting Andelena's brother murdered by monsters probably is not the wedding present she would wish for. Then again... they seem to have a strained relationship.
"It would certainly be impressive to see." You know, given that hunting in the area around Alexandros has been quite bad due to the recent Werewolf problems. "Though, I wouldn't recommend going out this evening, not unless you're truly brave and fearless. The woods are quite a challenge at night."
Mikilos nods to Simony. "Happy to be of assistance. Am well myself, and sounds like you're doing alright despite a rough time. And this all seems to be working out well enough, despite an interuption." He nods towards Gale. And then Skielstregar enters. "Another interuption, but seems the happy sort."
Telamon looks at Simony sympathetically. "Yeah, I ... was going to warn you about that. I'm probably not much more of a drinker than you, I just have a little more experience. Which is why I was drinking the lighter wine."
Whatever Tel is going to follow up with gets lost as he sees Skiel come ambling in, and he lights up. "Skiel? By the gods, it's been too long! Simony, this is Skielstregar, an old friend of mine..." The half-elf looks positively tiny compared to the walking silver wall that is Skielstregar, as he approaches with a big smile. "It's good to see you again, old friend!"
Gale grins at Rune and begins to regale her with a hunting story. One in which he hunted a wolf down because it was eating some poor farmer's sheep. In the end the farmer had given him a sheep as a gift of gratitude. "I'm afraid of no such thing. I've heard that werewolves are really just men who wear quite a lot of fur in any case. Nothing that a real man need be afraid of." He waves a hand dismissively.
Auranar stands by ready and helps Dolan with his many plates. Smiling and eyes flickering toward Rune now and again before lowering her voice to Andelena. "I recognize most people here, but not the man. Is he a friend?"
"I'm thinking I owe her more than a night of drinking for this," Dolan looks after Rune, who is keeping Gale quiet, and continues to eat with good appetite even as conversation swirls around him. It gets washed down with ale, and before long, he takes a moment to refill his and Andelena's mugs, bringing them both back from the keg himself.
It's the noise that brings his attention round to the maraca-bedecked makari. "Skielstregar!" Instead of being offended by the drunkenness, he merely lets out a good-natured laugh, and calls to him. "Brightest of days, warrior, and damn if it's not good to see you having fun for once. Be welcome, the kegs are there," he gestures to the kegs and food with his mug. "Be welcome."
"He's my older brother," Andelena says with a sigh to Auranar. "Asshole that he is. But he's... out of my mother's clutches for the moment, so I guess that's something to celebrate, too."
She looks over to Skielstregar and waves to him with a wide grin. "Hey Skiel!" she calls over. "Thanks for making it! Like Bry said, we got plenty to drink and eat."
Simony nods to Mikilos, her grin broad. Her expression turns to one of wonder, the Goblin already staring at Skielstregar with saucer-wide eyes. "So shiny.", she says quietly. Following alongside Telamon, she is practically glued to his side as they approach the towering Sith-makar. The Gobbo cants her head back to peer at the Sith hornaments, and then at the maracas. Oblivious to everything else for the moment, Simony wobbles a little, getting closer still to the Silver-scale Sith.
Looking up again, she blurts out, "Your poor mother must have been very sore after laying your egg."
Skielstregar throws a hand up as Telamon greets him. "Ssshaman Telamonsss!" he grins, ambling on over with a peppy jog. Shaka shaka shaka shaka goes his tail. He skips formalities as a burly arm wraps Telamon in a (careful!) chilly side hug. "Good to sssee you too!" He peers down to Simony, letting Telamon go as he gives them a wave. "Hello! Peassse on your nesst!" He blinks at the gobber, seeing their enrapturement with his shininess before he just barks out a laugh. "Maybe!"
More waves and smiles are given to those he knows, it getting a bit more energetic towards Harkashan and Rune. But he sways over to Dolan and Andelena. "Peassse on your nesst, brightesst of daysss! Thisss one offersss congratsss! Thisss iss quite enjoyable! Oh-! Thisss one hass giftsss! Chairsss for houssse. And... sssmaller gift!" he grins, reaching into a pocket and pulling out two gold-colored glass figurines of a twisting dragon. "They sssparkle in the sssun!"
Dolan quickly finishes his bite of food and sets aside his mug on the bar top. "Skiel, you're a marvel, those are beautiful! We'll find a place in the house to show them off for sure." He offers half a grin to Skielstregar, then, and nods to the gift table. "They'll be safest over there, I'm not planning on being safe to trust with glass by the end of the evening, yeah? Thanks."
He lets out a breath and turns more quietly to Auranar. "Like Andie says," he explains. "He's safe, and his behavior means he's his usual self, so that's something to celebrate. Damn sight better than the last time I saw him. Andie and I owe Rune one. We'll have to think of a gift for her for that."
Under normal circumstances, Rune absolutely adored stories. The problem here is that she very much has lived the story that Gale is offering, and had been among those who had killed not ordinary wolves, but Dire wolves at that. It just doesn't come across as impressive or interesting. Oh, but she puts on that look of interest at least, even as her hand starts to get a bit fidgety with her necklace. "A wolf? I've heard they are quite fearsome. You must be quite brave."
As he continues, dismissing werewolves as made up stories, it becomes that much harder for Rune to maintain her composure. "Oh? I think I may have seen one, then!" She bobs her head forward, "Big fellow, clad all in furs. That's what people are talking aobut when they speak of werewolves? I thought they were some sort of monster."
At the greeting from Skielstregar, she offers a lift of one hand, and then looks to Gale. "If we aren't to get any service, here, would you mind if we go for a walk? I am sure there are other establishments we can favor instead." And she can ditch him somewhere along the way...
Gale brightens considerably at the offer of a walk and rises to his feet, offering the woman his arm. He smiles warmly at the woman. "I think that sounds fantastic. It would be my honor to escort you." He offers this and a slight bow before moving to lead her out of the establishment.
Auranar notices the pair leaving and nods to Dolan, setting aside his plate. "I'll follow them at a distance. Just... to be sure that they don't get mugged." She flashes her teeth and gives Dolan a reassuring look before following discretely after the pair. She'll make sure Rune makes a good get-away.
"Chairs? And a glass figurine? Damn, Skiel, you're pulling out all the stops tonight!" Andelena exclaims brightly. "Thanks, big guy!"
Upon seeing Rune and Gale moving to leave the establishment, as well as Auranar moving to follow them, Andelena shakes her head and just laughs. "Damn. You know, I didn't quite have my older brother showing up to my wedding party on my list of things to see today, but... Circumstances being what they are, I'll take it."
She looks back to Dolan. "Well, what the hell are we waiting for?" she asks. "There's a wedding cake around here to be cut. Whose face is going into the first slice?"
Simony waves to Telamon as he makes his way back into the crowd, and grins up at the shiny Sith-makar. "Peace on your nest, Skielstregar. It is shiny to meet you. I am Simony Smithsdottir. I've heard a lot about you, but the stories do not do your shininess enough justice." Her ears perk up a moment, and she looks to Rune and her dance partner.
"Oh yes, werewolves are monsters. The biggest problem is that they can look like regular folk. Why, anyone in here could be one!"
After a moment she grins toothily. "The Ox-Strength will serve you. Be sure to ask for the curry chicken, if you're hungry, and Bertha's Bitter Regret ale. It's won prizes!"
No mention that the prize was "Most eye-wateringly bad".
Her attention returns to the Silvery Sith. "So, Skielstregar, is it rude to ask you what caste you are a part of? I think I would be a shaman?"
Mikilos perks up himself as Rune and Gale start to depart, but settles back when he spies others moving to follow. As amusing as a crowd following the pair might be, more productive to keep the numbers minimal.
There is the smallest motion of a thumbs up towards Dolan and Andelena as a proud chuff leaves him. "Thisss one isss glad you like it! They'll.... hic thisss one will do that...!" he rumbles warmly, looking over to the gift table and carefully wrapping the glass figurines back up and setting them with the other gifts.
Returning now, he quirks his head at Rune's company, not really picking up on any of the story as the hustle and bustle is quite loud. Walking in pairs is a good idea, it's late at night! He gives his friend a wave as she starts to go before he turns to the group, particularly that of Simony. He sits down. On the floor. Finally now at head level with everyone else sitting in chairs. His tail continues its song. "It issss not rude to asssk. Thisss one isss Warrior Cassste!" he laughs, mulling on his large mug. "Erm, what sssorts of thingsss have you heard about thisss one? Assside from being ssshiny?"
"Neither of us," Dolan's smile fades a little, and he turns his whole gaze up towards Andelena. "The Fernwood doesn't need to look like a food fight happened, yeah?" Still, he straightens up and, leaving his now-mostly-empty plates, turns towards the wedding cake. "Let's be about it."
In the end, the party gets increasingly drunken, but good-naturedly so, and much dancing, drinking games, and worsening singing is had. It's a rough good time, nothing fancy about it, and eventually the bride and groom slip up the stairs and to a room of their own.
Now sleep? That's another matter, and the party going on down below continues unabated, at least for a while.