2021-06-19 Faerie Court

Faerie Court

Participants: Hauk Neve Abbraxus Elsie Lydia Mouse Mebh

Location: Xenuhemach Stronghold, The Dreaming

Date and Time: June 19, 2021

Summary: Open Court is held in Xenuhemach by Sir Hauk Kaine ap Firenne, County Steward

Mood Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm2Tii_a454

───<Hauk>───────────────
Arriving via mechanical dragonback with Neve at his side, Hauk strides into the still empty grounds of the Court of Scale and Vine with purpose, but yet still an almost easy sort of grace - the grounds familiar. Staff are nodded to, several are spoken to in quiet tones as they approach he and Lady Neve on their way towards the dias, and then they're off again once more to carry out, or continue, duties as assigned.

It's not too far from the dias itself that Hauk pauses and looks over to Neve, quirking something that may just be the hint of a smile at her, "I'll have to leave you here, my place is up there today and we'll need to keep the space immediately around the dias here for petitioners and visitors to the court as their business is acknowledged. I'm sure there will be breaks enough I can step down and chat again, but I need to be up there as things get started." <REPOSE - For Abbraxus, Neve is posing .. >
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───<Abbraxus>───────────────

	When the chamber doors next open, the sight is something to behold. A Redcap in armor, greatword as long as a mann slung across his back, and riding a fiery Nightmare who is nearly as scary as the monster astride him. Abbraxus the Night Terror has returned. Once they have cleared the chamber doors, the warrior slides off the steed to land with a thud on the ground. He seems heavier than he looks. His armor has been recently cleaned and polished, but the bloody stream on his mail will never wash off. He casually walks in, clanking as he moves and the Nightmare's hooves clack on the floor.
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───<Neve>───────────────

Neve's fingers loop gently through Hauk's arm as the two of them move along, the sensuousness of the nearly liquid of her silver dress gliding along with every movement of her body. She smiles along with them, quiet for the most part now that they've made it down to the audience chamber. Her bright, vivid cerulean eyes find the Court's servants moments before an easy smile, but the largest of those smiles is saved for Hauk, himself, when they've both drawn to a stop.

"I know. And I'm just the County Muse," the Leanhaun side croons with mirth filling her eyes, laughter behind her lips that just failed to bubble up. "I'll be mingling and keeping an eye on you. I'm going to go check on Elsie and see if she's ready, but I know you'll be wonderful. And fair." A beat, then, as her grin turns slightly rueful. "And kind ."

The offers the man an affectionate wink, steps just close enough to place a chaste kiss against his jaw, and then dips into a respectful curtsy. "My Lord Steward," she says warmly. There's a final smile, and then she's turning to head back to the mechanical dragons they'd ridden in on.

Abbraxus doesn't go unnoticed, either. He was among the first to arrive, and more were landing behind him. There's a curious, vaguely cautious look in her eye, but she makes no move to approach him directly. Not yet. It seemed the Lady had other matters to attend to that were speeding her on her way.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
Hauk moves to stand just short of the dias as the staff works to get the last of the pieces in place for court today. He glances around and then makes a casual gesture around the area just there in front of the dias - causing a series of short three foot tall six inch on a side pillars in alternating quartz and jet to rise up from the floor in a semi-circle about twenty feet out or so from the point the steps meet the lush grass. Then, in stages, and for an area some thirty feet or so back from that demarcation point, pallets of quarts and jet raise from the floor to standing table hight, some three feet on a side, with no discernable pattern to their placement - simply to give court members places to gather around or not.. as needed.

As that happens Hauk's gaze is drawn to Abbraxus and the redcap's given a look that's entirely neutral, though the nod in greeting is easy enough and perfectly polite and appropriate for the setting.
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───<Abbraxus>───────────────

	"Mind your setting, Fred..." he mutters to the Nightmare steed, which could mean any number of things. His gaze runs over the chamber, the Redcap takes note of certain landmarks before his eyes land on Hauk. Brows furrow briefly, but when he gets a nod of greeting, Abe returns it with one of his own as if mirroring. He continues with the Nightmare horse walking along side of him, as if he belonged in court. When he feels he is a proper distance from the dias, Abe stops and stands, waiting about as patiently as a Redcap might be able, ready for Court to begin. Of course nobody has seen the warrior for a few months.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
With Abbraxus's approach to the area around the space in front of the dias that's been marked out by those short alternating quartz and jet posts, Hauk speaks in quiet tones that still manage to carry - perhaps due to some trick of the environment, or his own - easily enough to the Redcap's ears and beyond without sounding like the Steward is yelling, "I believe that we've only but crossed paths at a distance. It's been some time since you've been to Court, though, unless I'm mistaken."

Meanwhile the court is filling with various members and their entourage, mechanical dragons delivering them from above in the most part, though there's more than a small percentage that manage their own transportation to the grassy floor of the court and begin to mill about. Hauk seems to be keeping an eye on things while speaking occasionally with staff or someone that wanders close, before returning his attention to the area at large.
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───<Abbraxus>───────────────

	"You are correct, Lord Steward." he answers after a moment to consider his words. Really he isn't your typical Redcap. He is somewhat better mannered, at least right now, though one can easily witness the inner struggle as he wars against the very nature of his being to do so. "I went north to handle...business." he claims as Abe remains at semi-attention and his voice carries just as well as Hauk's but the deep bass sounds, and even feels, like two boulders grinding together. His eyes remain on Hauk while the Sidhe is preparing for court, one hand moving to settle on the neck of his Nightmare companion beside him.
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───<Neve>───────────────

Time in The Dreaming was such an amorphous thing-- or perhaps the Lady Neve simply didn't have all that far to go to collect her charge. Regardless, it seemed that, by the time court was officially starting, both the platinum-haired Leanhaun sidhe and her auburn-haired mortal companion were being carried down from the Eyrie above by mechanical dragon.

The dragon's long wings stretch out as it turns in a graceful, sloping descent through the air, catching long whisps of platinum tresses and tossing them up behind Neve as they soar towards the watery surface of the Audience Chamber sphere. By all accounts, they were going to fly right through the water, but it magically parts just as the dragon approaches, carving a hole wide enough for them to pass through without getting soaked.

And then the island is in view below-- no more than a hundred paces on any side. Not massive, but well enough space for the dragons to land, deposit their passengers, and collect those that were ready to leave in one isolated area apart from all of those that were gathering for for court and mingling.

It was sidhe, mostly, that gathered-- as these things usually went. Their beautiful visages, men and women alike, gather together in small groups that whisper, laugh, and shift eyes this way and that. There are some Pooka, too. Some Boggans. Most of the Kithain and some of the Gallain could be found in varying numbers, all vying for the opportunity to network, be seen, and sometimes even be heard.

It's into this evolving, ordered chaos that Neve descends from her dragon and then turns to check on the woman beside her, ensuring Elsie isn't too far and isn't too overwhelmed by everything happening around them. There's a soft sort of warmth on the County Muse's face as she sticks close, gesturing Elsie about half-way towards the dais that Hauk occupies-- a stump had risen out of the ground tall enough to make a makeshift pub-height table, and there was only one other occupant at it.

"We'll put you where you can see everything but be out of the way," Neve was explaining. The gown she wore moved around her like poured silver, elegant and yet revealing enough to hide very little of her figure underneath.
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───<Elsie>───────────────

You can dress a mortal up so many different ways. In Elsie's case, she's been dressed up to blend in. Or, at the very least, to not entirely stick out. Sore thumb and all that. An elegant, off the shoulder gown with semi-sheer fabric that lets the whole shape of her body through when the light hits it just right. Lavish makeup around the eyes, too. Peacock colors, thick and bold, with a two-toned lipstick. It's primarily cherry red, but a single green line parts down the very center of her bottom lip. You can dress a mortal up in so many different ways. And yet, even still, Elsie Graham is clearly and plainly exactly what she is.

Thankfully, she's been enchanted long enough that she's not recoiling in surprise, shock, and awe at every single thing she sees. Hell, she was even a trooper about riding around on the back of a fucking dragon to get here. There's really only so much stimulus a brain can take before it just sort of shuts down and goes: 'ok lol'.

"Okay," Elsie says to Neve, following her up towards the dais that Hauk currently is situated in. She sticks mostly close to Neve, either having been briefed on the fact that this land is -dangerous- or feeling a bit like a lost puppy.

Or both. Probably both.

Her eyes linger on Hauk for a moment. Her first time seeing -him- with these particular eyes. A small smile tugs on her lips. Friendly, if a bit familiar. "Do you want me to sit here?" Elsie asks, gesturing to a seat somewhere out of the way and not at the center table.

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───<Lydia>───────────────

There is another arrival in the moments after Neve. Alighting from a dragon with a faint clink and shifting of armour comes a Satyr woman, fully dressed to the nines in knightly array and bearing with her all the arms of her office. When one wants to make a striking impression, you show up looking fit to slay a dragon! Well, not one of the lovely clockwork ones carrying people to and fro, but the ones that breathe fire and carry off damsels and such like. The dismount is easily done and skilled enough that Lydia manages not to look awkward while weighed down with her kit. Wearing gleaming silver Fae maille and a tabard with her coat of arms bearing sword, shield and lance, she makes the quite the striking figure. Her helmet is removed, to allow her face to be seen, even if she thinks she looks cooler with it on. It's only polite when making yourself known! The spear itself is sheathed, the head covered in leather, though the pennant of House Fiona is unfurled. Yeah.

Knight-Errantry is so bad-ass is probably what she's thinking to herself as she politely holds herself off to one side, awaiting the beginning of court.
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───<Abbraxus>───────────────

	Right. Sidhe, Pooka, Boggen, some Satyr, all manner of Fae, an exactly one Redcap; the thing made of people's night terrors. As others filter in, he does glance at them, barely. Most do not earn his attention, considering he would not be worthy of theirs. The landing of Lydia in her armor does get a look, probably the longest thus far, studying her and likely sizing her up. Two things are important to a Redcap warrior. First understand a possible enemy (which Lydia is not), and look for the most tasty parts to eat first. Abe's eyes return to Huak on the dias.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
"I'm glad I hadn't managed to overlook seeing you about. Welcome back to the County, I trust that your busines up north went well enough. " Hauk replies to Abbraxus with a touch of a smile, though it doesn't quite reach his eyes, one of neutral welcome that doesn't bely his true feelings on the matter one way or the other.

It's right then that there seems to be a certain critical mass reached and the Steward shifts his attention to the gathering of the Fae, his bright sapphire blue eyes drifting over those in attendance for a moment before he turns, with a polite nod to Abbraxus, to take the few steps up to the top of the dias and take a stance atop it standing just a efw steps in front of the throne. The placement centers him amidst the backdrop of the spread wings that are the back of that seat of power, but he does not take the seat himself. Instead he looks out at those gathered and waits for a heartbeat or three as the staff come to a halt - acting in their own way to hint to those around them that Court is about to be opened.

That moment arrives and Hauk's voice carries across the area to reach everyone without straining, yet somehow just .. quiet enough to demand attention and focus instead of just being blaringly loud.

"All the citizens and denizens of the County of Scale and Vine - do let it be known that Court is open today to hear the petitions of those with interest in the County, Court, its members, denizens, or properties there in."

Two of the short pillars that stand in front of the dias shift in their position, coming together and melding into a checkerboard of black jet and pure white quartz shaped into the form of a short pedestal. The staff move through the crowd, talk to various members, and all generally encourage those with business with the court to go to that pedestal and wait their turn to be recognized.
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───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia is moving almost as soon as the opening of court is announced. With graceful movements, the knight passes through the crowd and places herself at the pedestal to await recognition, her back straight and head held upright.
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───<Abbraxus>───────────────

	"As well as can be expected." answers the Redcap when asked about his business in the north. Of course he didn't see the blood and grime caked on Abe when he returned last night. Today, his armor is clean and polished, greatsword 'Winter's Dread' oiled and sharpened. He looks...presentable; amazing for a 'Cap. When Lydia steps forward, there is no movement from Abe beyond head turning slightly to follow her trajectory to the front. He remains silent now, observing.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
A moment or so after Lydia approaches, managing through both speed of reaction and .. mode of dress alike, to place herself at the pedestal first. This, of course, means she's the first petitioner to gain the Stewards attention. Standing in that same spot atop the dias, Hauk's sapphire blue eyes shift from the gathering Fae and their retinue to Lydia and linger for a few long breaths worth of silence. The gaze is one that looks deep, his eyes and focus have the distinct weight of one that might be looking beyond what is simply visible on the surface, and he makes no attempt to disguise that inspection. Ultimately he nods and makes an inviting..or perhaps permissive.. gesture, "Welcome. I do not believe we've met, please make yourself known to the Court and let us know what brings you here today."
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───<Neve>───────────────

"Wherever you're comfortable," Neve responds gently to Elsie as the two of them step up to one of the tables. There had been plenty that sprung up into existence, the combination of seating and standing areas allowing for a variety of ways in which to observe the proceedings depending on one's own comfort level.

The other sidhe woman at the table Neve had approached, however, seemed to look at both the blonde Leanhaun and her red-haired companion with no small amount of disdain in her vibrant yellow eyes.

"Lady Vanya," Neve's voice croons with a sickening level of sweetness to it. She kept the volume low enough to be unobtrusive to the proceedings, much like the rest of the small gatherings along the periphery.

Vanya's lips smile, but nothing at all changes about the wickedness in her eyes. "Lady Neve. I see you brought your pet to Court. How delightful. Is it house trained?"

Bitterness touches Neve's gaze more fully, and she gestures a hand slightly towards Elsie in a polite greeting. "Elsie, this is Lady Vanya. Her husband abandoned her for a Centauresse in the Far Dreaming, and she's never been quite the same. How is that dry spell coming along, Vanya? There must be someone out there looking a bitter hag and trite banter."
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───<Lydia>───────────────

Lyida awaits the inspection with a calm, collected look, her own gaze peering back up at the Steward with bright blue eyes. When at last he addresses her, she bows her head respectfully--the shield is carefully slung back over her shoulder and she steps forward to kneel, her hands holding aloft her lance as it to offer it towards Hauk in supplication or otherwise. She takes a breath, and speaks in a clear and ringing voice, loud enough to be heard even above the faint murmur of background conversation in the midst of court.

"I present myself to you and this court as Sir Lydia Laflamme ap Fiona, a Knight-Errant of the Duchy of Many Rivers in the Kingdom of Northern Ice," her voice, though clear, carries a distinct Francophone accent. "Let it be known that I come without malice, without deception, and in good heart and faith and bear no ill-will towards this county nor any who dwell therein. I come here to offer my spear, my sword, and my honor in defense of the Dreaming and to undertake whatever duties, tasks or quests there may be suitable for such a knight."
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───<Elsie>───────────────

"Ah, wherever I'm comfortable," Elsie says with something of a self aware smile. She tips her head to the side and peers up towards the sky, the light catching off of that intricate eye makeup and giving the illusion, perhaps, that her own eyes shimmer as brilliantly as some others. They do not, of course. Rich and dark and brown, like the ocean at night. When the motion off to her left catches her attention, Elsie turns those eyes towards Lady Vanya. Elsie's face briefly twists into a look of distaste, but it never quite cracks apart into outright anger. It doesn't linger, either. Soon enough, it resets to something a touch more neutral. "Lady Vanya," Elsie says, dipping her head forward in a polite sort of curtsy. It's a curtsy performed entirely out of mimicry and not a practiced thing. Is she house trained? Yes. Is she considerably excellent at Fae court etiquette.

Likely not.

Elsie remains mostly quiet during the barbed back-and-forth banter between the two women. She's so polite, she doesn't even crack a smile at Neve's jabs at the other woman's expense. Elsie's hands drift briefly down to the hem of her gown's dress and bunch it up, but they don't linger there. Those fingers tighten up into a resolute little fist and she lifts her chin to look Lady Vanya directly in her strange, yellow eyes.

"I love your dress," she adds onto Neve's 'bitter hag and trite banter'. Polite and genuine. She does actually quite like the dress.

Lydia's voice rings out amongst the court, and it's a familiar sort of voice. Elsie squints and turns her chin over her shoulder briefly to inspect the Satyr. The form she sees is not the same as the one she met in that quaint Irish pub, but there's something in the tone and the diction that rings to Elsie as vaguely familiar. Still, her eyes turn back to Lady Vanya and Neve, and a small smile breaks across her painted lips.

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───<Hauk>───────────────
As Lydia offers up her spear for inspection Hauk takes the few steps down from the dais to do just that. One hand reaches out to grasp the spear's betwixt where her hands hold it and he lifts just slightly - an attempt to lift it free of her hands lest she work to maintain that hold. And while he lifts it from her grip, that distance is only but scant inches. There's a pause, clearly for the purpose of marking the changing of hands, before he sets the weapon back in her hands as he says. "Be welcome, Knight of Fiona, in the County of Scale and Vine. There is much that one willing to offer so much might find to do here in the Count, and County's service, either directly or otherwise. Rise, Sir Laflamme, and know that your offer and your presence are looked upon with favor. "

As he turns and starts to walk back up the steps once more he remains half turned so that he can talk, a little less formally, with the newly announced Knight, "When there's time we should chat and see what duties or tasks in specific might suit, or if there are others within the County that might have need of your service and, or, support."
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───<Lydia>───────────────

There's no hesitation nor resistance from Lydia as the steward lifts her weapon from her hands. SHe remains where she is, head bowed respectfully (because the Steward speaks for the Count, in this case) until the lance is returned. At his words, she slowly rises to her feet.

"Thank you for your kind welcome," she says with all proper deference. "I would be very happy to chat about it sometime when you're not busy with your more official duties." With that and a final bow, she takes a few steps back from the podium, then turns and heads into the crowd of onlookers and courtiers. Phew, hard stuff out of the way.
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───<Neve>───────────────

Open Court is in full swing. The island that floats at the bottom of the giant water globe of the Audience Chamber bustles with activities as fae of all kind gather into little groups at the side for quiet conversation or sit on little mossy stumps that rise out of the ground as all of the real action takes place at the dais.

It was everything that the slender, regal, sophisticated blonde sidhe, Lady Neve ni Leanhaun, Muse for the County of Scale and Vine, Seneschal of the Land's End Barony, could do not to high-five Elsie right there at the table. Instead, her eyes did it for her. Satisfaction seemed to make those vivid cerulean orbs glow.

Lady Vanya, the other sidhe at their little pub-height table on the periphery, had been scowling a lethal glare at Neve. She'd even opened her mouth to retort, but she'd been silenced by the voice of the auburn-haired enchanted mortal at the table-- and complimented .

Flame could have erupted from Vanya's eyes, but she took a breath and turned to stride away without another word. It left Neve with an adoring look that she focused on Elsie like a ray of pure sunshine. "I need to bring you to these more often," she muses, her grin quirking one corner of her lips.

But then her focus is back on the dais-- on the exchange between Lydia and Hauk. She pays close attention to the words that are spoken, and when Lydia turns to slip back into the crowd, the Lady Neve excuses herself quickly from Elsie's side to meet the Satyr on an intercept course.

As these things so often go, there's another hand rising just past Lydia, trying to flag down Neve's attention, and it brings a little sigh from the Leanhaun sidhe. Of course they were-- just when she really wanted to take her time on a proper introduction. Oh well. She would have to make due with a quick one, instead.

"Sir Laflamme," she speaks when she approaches from Lydia's front, her smile warm, her hands clasped loosely in front of her. They part, hands open, as she dips into a small curtsy. "I can't stay-- but I wanted to offer welcome to Caer Angeles. I'm Lady Neve, County Muse and Seneschal of Land's End. I'd love to have more of an opportunity to chat with you-- my Lord, Baron Thierry, is himself of House Fiona. I wonder if there's not an opportunity for us to get better acquainted before your allegiances are decided. But.. as I said. I apologize. I just wanted you to know that you're welcome at La Maison any time."

There's nothing but radiant warmth and politeness in her tone, and she offers Lydia another bow, before moving past towards the one that had been flagging her attention before.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
As he finishes welcoming Lydia and resumes his place upon the dais, his eyes caught by Neve's sidling up to Lydia and they linger there for a long moment on the pair before his attention returns to the line of petitioners, which he handles in due course. There's a a variety of them, from various disputes that need settling, to changes in lines of succession, petitions for squires, the full gamut of the business of the Court. Hauk handles each with ease, but appropriate formality and respect. Not all issues are resolved, some put aside for other days, or for other times when the Count himself is available to weigh in or accept oaths directly.
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───<Mouse>───────────────
A crow works its way up to the hovering sphere of water, the black shape rising to the mechanical dragons ascending towards the aerie and diving through that partition, weaving through the plents before finally arriving in the back of the audience chamber. Its coat is a pitch, sable black, which is not unusual of course. Its eyes are a blood, ruby red, which is.
All at once the black-feathered shape begins to rise. Mid-transformation, a sleek black feline shape slips free from under a wing, pacing and licking its paws. Black feathers continue to expand into a cloak, clothing. A shockingly pale hand emerges grasping a long, amethyst-tipped spear, and then Mouse is standing there, the relatively dimunitive shaking out the last bit of feathers, which fall to the floor. The whole sequence takes less than a second.
"Fuck it's too bright here." Bags are dark under the Sidhe's eyes, still the same ruby-red, rubbing her forehead in apparent exhaustion as she hisses to Cat, "Can you tell where the fucking line is, everyone's just milling about."
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───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia smiles, bright and cheerful, at the approach of Neve--so many beautiful ladies and lords to make introductions to. It's practically a smorgasbord of passionate delights for the discerning satyr, really. Neve is given a graceful bow, accompanied by the clinking of maille. Maybe wearing all of her armor to court was a bad plan, but it sure looks cool. She beams happily at the sidhe woman, looks at her through her lashes. "I sincerely hope that we'll have a chance to become better acquainted, Lady Neve. I shall place myself at your disposal when you next have the time, I'm sure," she finishes, then straightens as Neve's attention is called away. That leaves her peering at that familiar woman sat with the sour-faced sidhe. A mortal, most certainly--and a familiar one. She starts to make her way towards the mortal woman--time to reintroduce herself, she supposes.
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───<Elsie>───────────────

Elsie meets Lady Vanya's gaze with a certain intensity that might begin to tip towards impudence. It never quite crosses that threshold, though. That compliment was, in fact, genuine. Even if it utterly deflates and diffuses the mounting tension. As the woman's anger begins to grow, Elsie's own courage begins to deflate, giving the other changeling the satisfaction of seeing her delicately tug her bottom lip into her mouth and beneath her teeth. But she's stomping off, and Elsie's tension is bleeding out of her body with a long sigh out through her nostrils.

"I'm making friends, see?" she says over to Neve, and smiles at the woman. There's a subtle sort of swelling in her disposition when she's complimented. Is she preening? Well, she does have that peacock inspired eye makeup on. Maybe a little bit of preening. But Neve needs to do court things, and Elsie is content to be left in relative safety as her friend slips away to do what she came here for.

Another sideways glance is given to Hauk, and maybe Elsie subtly shifts a touch closer to him now. Not enough to crowd the space of his courtly duties, but certainly enough to indicate to others that Neve's 'pet' mortal might also be loosely glommed onto him.

She watches the interplay Lydia and Neve play out and, when the familiar-sounding-but-different-looking satyr makes her approach, Elsie offers her a polite little smile.

Even if her heart is beating a little bit quicker.

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───<Hauk>───────────────
One of the staff that roams through the milling throng both around the line and through the whole of the gardens overhears Mouse's question and approaches to quietly direct the Sidhe to the line that is, for the moment, short. The most urgent 'Court opening' business seems to have been concluded, now things progress in more cyclical wave like phases, leaving some bits of quiet between interactions.

At least during one of those times Hauk steps off the dias and out from the area marked off by the low pillars around it to swing by to intercept Lady Vanya not far from the table where Elsie stands. He gives the other Fae woman a look that doesn't bother to disguise his utter lack of care for the woman, the darker and far less .. kind elements of his Unseelie personality allowed out for the briefest glimpse as he says, "Speaking for myself, and not the Count or Court, Lady Vanya.. I'm quite pleased to see you being so warm, welcoming and kind to those members of the Counts Court, their retinue and their invitees. Should you wish to .. banter with words of power, I'm quite willing to discus __names__ with you at any point in time."

And then he steps away, not bothering to wait for an answer.. There 's those enough in the Court and it's members that know of his facility with Names.

On his way back towards the dias he nods once more to Lydia, pauses at Elsie's table for a moment, not quite close enough to touch but more than close enough to establish that they know each other. He doesn't stop for long, instead making his way back to the top just to turn around and gesture for the next petitioner to step forward ...
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───<Mouse>───────────────
Mouse and Cat wait duly in line, the former ruffling around in her duffelbag until she produces a scroll, sealed with a wax sigil, handing it to the latter as their turn arrives. The nightcast feline stalks forward, the scroll in his teeth, depositing it on the floor with a nudge towards the steward. "Ahem, hello. Good afternoon. I am Cat, and my companion-" One paw gesturees backwards at the elf, who is standing, arms crossed, looking vaguely like she just swallowed a fly. "Is Mouse, of House Daireann. We were given to understanding that your court had a need for a- ah." Cat pauses, squinting, glancing back, "What was it again? Fancy cop?"
"Marshal." Mouse supplies dryly.
 Cat nods, "Ah, yes, marshal. A relation made us aware of this opening and we would like to apply for the position."
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───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia's attention is mostly on Elsie at the moment, though she does turn her eyes towards Mouse and Cat as they approach the Steward. How interesting that pair is! She studies them for a moment, but then returns her attention to Elsie. Strolling up with a confident swagger reserved for professional athletes and persons-at-arms, she makes a deep bow. One arm is balancing her spear back against her shoulder like some sort of demented lacross or hockey stick and she reaches out to take Elsie's hand with her free one, leather and cool Fae silver against mortal flesh.

"Miss Elsie, I believe it was? We met the other day, in Tir na nOg, and I am quite gratified to meet you again here, and properly. I had no idea you had the favor of such a lady as Neve, but it shouldn't surprise me. I am Sir Lydia Laflamme ap Fiona, as you have heard, and it is quite the honor to meet one held in such esteem by a lady of the sidhe," she says with all her charm laid out--she is quite deliberately greeting this mortal woman, after all. Gently, if Elsie allows it, she brings the other's hand up to meet her lips for a gentle kiss against the knuckles of her hand.

"It's really a pleasure to meet you properly, my lady."
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───<Elsie>───────────────

Elsie's attention does drift over to Cat and Mouse and their introduction in front of the court. She lets her eyes flick from them to Hauk, having given the man an appreciative nod at his brief stop by the table. Lady Vanya is likely quite scowly in Elsie's general direction, but it's safe to say that she has likely (at least temporarily) been cowed. Mouse and Cat's antics get a surprised smile from the young mortal girl, but her attention is soon gathered up by Lydia entirely.

As well as her hand.

"Oh. Yes," Elsie says. She examines the other woman's facial features for a moment or two as she speaks and then, as more information is revealed to her, a look of remembrance seems to settle upon her visage. Even her perfect memory is cloudy within the dreaming. "Oh... oh! Yes. Dia," she says. She remains quiet during the greeting, piping up only once to say: "That makes one of us" in response to Lydia saying it doesn't surprise her. She does look as if she's about to speak, but her hand is being lifted and lips are being pressed against her knuckles. It's fairytale shit, and Elsie can't help but crack a smile and let out a little laugh.

Her free hand drifts to her dress, and she does her best attempt at a curtsy. It's one that's been based entirely off of princess rom-coms and various Disney movies, but she more or less gets the basics of it down.

"It is a pleasure, Sir Lydia Laflamme ap Fiona. And... please... Elsie is fine." Beat. "You know, I knew there was something special about you."

─────────────────────────
───<Hauk>───────────────
As the pair of Mouse and her cat step up to make their introduction and request, Hauk listens. He doesn't move to pick up the scroll, instead letting one of the staff that moves from the sidelines to do just that hand it to him as he takes that time to look over the intriguing pair. A moment is then spent looking at the scroll, examining the seal, and then breaking it to review the contents of the document as everyone waits. Once done he rolls it back up and hands it back to that same functionary who carries it off presumably some place it can be gone over with the Count at some future date.

"Welcome Cat, and Mouse, both to the County of Scale and Vine. A position such as you seek does remain open, at least unless the Count has filled or closed it without as of yet informing me. Given the nature of that position I cannot grant it to you just now, even if that were something I would do on first introduction. You'll need to meet with the Count himself and likely others as part of the trials of obtaining such a posting. " He pauses and glances about the court for a moment before returning his attention to the pair, "Is there anything else you'd like to bring to the Court in an open fashion on this matter? Or shall we work to arrange a meeting with the Count, and perhaps myself, to discuss your qualifications and other relevant attributes in a more private and candid fashion?"
────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
"No shit. I mean yeah, I figured it'd be a pain in the ass, no worries." Mouse answers, sighing and rubbing her temples. Despite the cliche villain coloring, the shorter elf doesn't convey much air of menace, looking a lot more like an anime cosplayer than anything else, starting to continue in that thick Boston accent, "Nah, nah, we're good. Just set up-"
 Mouse is interrupted by a rumbling clearing of throat from her feline partner, Cat stepping in, "Which is to say, thank you for taking it into consideration, we're available whenever's convenient. I'll leave our contact details, then." Mouse lets the feline resume doing the talking, squatting on her haunches and leaning on her spear with a bored, vaguely irritated expression.
─────────────────────────
───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia's smile is bright and warm and full of promise. Slowly, she releases Elsie's hand and straightens, shifting so that she can lean on her spear a little. Some of that formal stiffness has left her now and she looks sort of like a hockey player after a game, chatting with someone in the stands.

"You can just call me Sir Lydia. Or Lady Lydia. Whichever. No need for the full title," she says, grinning. "I just have that spark of something magical, I know. A lot of us do. Most of us," she says, glancing around the court, pausing to look amused at Cat and Mouse's strange antics. "So, Elsie, you caught the eye of Lady Neve? Fortunate for you. I've only just met her, but she's quite the beauty. Lucky for her too, I'd say."
─────────────────────────
───<Elsie>───────────────

Elsie's hand retreats when it's released, but she sort of does the pretty thing and keeps it elevated up above her collarbone a moment or two longer. Eventually, that hand drifts down to her front, where she clasps her hands together by lacing finger with finger. She wants to rock forward onto the tips of her toes, but the high heeled shows mostly obscured by the skirt of her gown prevent her from tipping much further forward. "Okay, Sir Lydia. But the full title was terribly fun to say," Elsie says. That Scottish accent seems to be unfurling a little more than it was at the bar. Maybe it's all the magic happening around her, or maybe it's a matter of comfort.

When the conversation takes a natural turn towards Lady Neve, Elsie nods. She unconsciously glances into the crowd in the direction the woman had disappeared to. Those fingers unlace, and she lifts a hand to sort of nip down at the knuckle of one of her fingers. "We caught each other's eyes, I suppose. A funny story that sounds so..."

Elsie pauses, and her eyes sort of narrow a little. Memories are harder here. The ones tethered to the past, at least. The Autumn, if she can remember it right. "Well, I suppose it sounds a little plain, doesn't it?"

Elsie nods and gives a dismissive wave of her hand when her own beauty is brought to the fold. "You should hear her sing. She does, sometimes. At that little bar. She has the sort of voice that makes your soul move."

Another glances is given towards Mouse and Hauk, but her eyes don't linger on official business. Mouse's rather... brusque... etiquette makes Elsie's lips quirk up into a smile. "They are quite the pair, aren't they? I wouldn't think you would need a Marshall in a place like... this."

─────────────────────────
───<Hauk>───────────────
There's a moment's pause before Hauk responds to Cat and Mouse's .. somewhat combined reply, his sapphire eyes lingering on the both of them in consideration of .. something. Finally he nods just slightly and says, "I can count on you then to make yourself available whenever the Count or I request your presence, then? Good." He seems to both answer his own question and .. wait for the pair's answer .. before continuing regardless of what it may be, "As I said, welcome to the County and we'll be speaking again soon, I'm certain."

His attention shifts to glance around the court once more as if to gauge the depth of the lines, or the potential numbers of those remaining petitioners, before he says in a voice that carries quietly to all. "And now the Court shall go into recess for a time to give all and sundry some time to catch up on the events of the day, gather refreshments, and.. or, courage to petition something on their own." Without any further ado he makes his way down the stairs again, his manner changing just slightly .. relaxing a touch as he sets the Courts duties aside for a few minutes.
────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
"We'll endeavor to keep the docket clear, for the moment." Cat purrs, tail swishing as he inclines his head in what might approximate a feline bow. Mouse just offers a finger-gun, the sleepless-looking elf hopping spritely to her feet, spear shouldered as she pivots wordlessly, going to look for whever the hell around her she can get some coffee.
─────────────────────────
───<Lydia>───────────────

"There's nothing plain about meeting someone new. It's usually quite exciting, isn't it? The patter of a speeding heart, the possibilities and wondering and what-ifs spreading out in front of you with each word? You must be kinder to yourself, dear Elsie." Lydia's attention is focused on Elsie for the moment, entirely happy to tune out the rest of court to pay attention (and compliments) to the enchanted mortal girl.

"I hope I can hear her sing someday soon. If she's amenable, perhaps my attempts at playing music can accompany her--it would be quite an honor, really," her gaze turns to follow the look towards Cat and Mouse and she miles.

"They are quite interesting, yes. And well, we have plenty of need of a marshall. There are beasts and monsters in the dreaming that might prey upon the unwary. Unwelcome visitors or attacks from the Fomorians or other factions. Or even just to deal with someone who is being unruly at court, you know? The marshall has many important duties."
─────────────────────────
───<Elsie>───────────────

"Trust me, she would love it if you did. She's the sort of flower who blooms when eyes are on her, you know?" Elsie says with a fond smile. One may get the impression that Elsie is quite the opposite. She's already wilted oh-so-slightly even under the most genteel of Lydia's compliments, after all. Still, attention and nice words are the two sorts of things that a girl can get used to. Elsie tucks a bit of that auburn hair behind her ear and turns towards Lydia once again.

"And what sort of instruments do you play?" Elsie asks. There is the mental link of the satyr and the pan-flute, but, you know. Probably best not to bring that up. One never knows when they may offend someone. "I've always liked the bongos, myself. Not that I can play anything, mind you. Unless you count the drums in Rock Band."

Does Lydia know what Rock Band is? Oh, good, we're moving on.

"So I've heard," Elsie says in response to the beasts and monsters of the dreaming. Her eyes return to Cat and Mouse -- the peculiar little pairing of brusque sheriff and cat companion. Elsie's nose wrinkles and she gives one nod, seeming to be taking to her role as a Lady in court beside a strapping Knight. When Lydia says 'you know?', Elsie can't help but laugh warmly in her direction. "Oh, I really don't. Know, I mean. I don't know anything at all. For all I know, we're in the rings of Saturn right now," Elsie says, hearkening back to the pair's previous conversation at the pub.

"I may as well be, anyway."

─────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
Mouse, having at least temporarily wrapped things up with the Seneschal, is glaring her way through the crowd, the slighter elf desperately searching for bo- coffee. Yes. Coffee is what she'll be drinking. Surely this goddamn place has a coffee bar. Cat, meanwhile, has surriptitiously just appeared at the table Lydia and Elsie are occupying, out of thin air- or so it would appear to anyone without very sharp eyes, at least, licking his paw as he considers the pair curiously, his attention specially focused on the mortal, the feline's ruby red-eyes an exact match to his partner's.
 "Ah. New to this whole business, yes? Very interesting. And how are you find it so far?" Cat's ears twitch, tone polite and charming enough, if a bit nosey. Not that he ignores Lydia, ruby eyes scanning the sigil and banner, taking note of the satyr knight's heraldry.
─────────────────────────
───<Lydia>───────────────

"A very lovely flower at that," Lydia agrees with a warm smile. "I play mandolin, mostly. A little bit of guitar and lute as well," she explains. "I sing a little, too, but I am not nearly as masterful as Lady Neve is, I'm sure." She glances down as cat leaps up to join them, murmurs: "It could indeed be the rings of Saturn for all we know--" And then her attention is on Cat fully. "I'm finding it quite lovely, really. I've only just arrived." Her own heraldry is quite obscure but her house is quite clearly Fiona, for Cat's edification. "You two made quite an entrance."
─────────────────────────
───<Mebh>───────────────

	The pod up from the lower chambers and armory passes through the waters and a rather wild- if ostentatious and bordering on garishly dressed- pooka arrives on shore of the island, stepping on delicate and dainty paws. From underneath her coat is fashioned whispy, ethereal strands of fabric as sturdy as steel that make up her faerie mail- though she caries no weaponry. Pinned to one lapel is the seal of the Count's own court, a token of a quest. The County Hunter. A few circles are made around the group as she looks for the perfect place to sit, and a stump is found beneath her after a few quick canine turns to settle into the seat. Yellow, lupine eyes finally look across the group, and her ears perk in surprise when she notice Elsie amongst the crowd. The quickly shift to Neve.

	"Neeeeeve, you're ruining the Feng Sui bringing prey in here!" Mebh mutters complaintively across the circle, and crosses one leg over the other, tail wiggling in friendly manner. "As much as I adore the little morsel you've brought, it's kind of you to bring a hungry wolf something to chase about the island when the deliberations get too irritating for my bearing." She waggles a brow, offers a dangerous smirk, and looks about the group yet again for new faces. There's a clever spark in her eye when she looks to Mouse, but she holds her tongue further for now, instead giving the occasional distracting and disruptive stare in Mouse's direction.

────────────────────────
───<Neve>───────────────

As the Open Court continued, Lady Neve had found her way into the periphery, mingling and chatting as refreshments were brought around by Brownies that carried trays balanced above their heads on scrawny arms. She took a tall, colorful glass of some liquid that frothed and smoked, laughing pleasantly at something a Boggan had said.

And then recess was called. There was no question or delay in the woman's stride. She'd excused herself from the conversation she was having, and by the time Hauk descended from the dais, she was by his side. She handed him a glass of something she'd snagged from a tray on the way past and smiled affectionately at him. After a moment, the Leanhaun sidhe leaned in to whisper something against his ear, the press of her body intimately close for the length of that conversation.

But, alas, there was a line for the Steward's attentions in a more unofficial capacity. Neve could feel the pressure without even looking-- those queuing up nearby for an opportunity to speak to the man with the ear of the Count. For a short while, she had no issue making the line wait while she claimed her time with him, but then she was touching his arm gently, those too blue eyes offering him an adoring gaze. With a final smile, she offered him a little toast of her own glass and then moved back into the throng, herself, scooping up yet another glass from a tray.

It was there that she heard her name on a familiar sounding voice. The long, drawn out sound almost a whine that carried through the crowd. It made a laugh bubble up past Neve's lips-- a soft, enchanting, almost haunting sound like the laughter of sirens. By the time that chasing Elsie about the island was mentioned, the blonde sidhe was already stepping up to Elsie's side and offering the newest of the drinks she'd fetched to the auburn-haired woman.

"Don't listen to her," she stage-whispers to Elsie, grinning a little as those too-vivid blue eyes track Mebh's movement. She didn't seem worried at all by the threat. She also didn't exactly discount the fact that Mebh might do something , either. "You're my prey. Not hers."

Playful teasing of Elsie accomplished, Neve's eyes returned to Lydia, offering a pleasant, "I apologize for my abruptness earlier. Duty calls and everything." To Cat, she offers a little smile, apparently looking between the group to take a moment to catch up on what she'd missed.
────────────────────────
───<Elsie>───────────────

Elsie can't quite contain the little jump of surprise when Cat -pops- into existence beside her. It isn't jumping and shrieking 'WAUGH' of shock when she first became enchanted, but there is a tiny (and potentially endearing) squeak that pops out of her throat. And a slight jump, to boot. She reaches over to touch her hand against her chest, heart beating a little quicker.

Adrenaline pours, pupils dilate, and it all happens before her mouth can crack into a smile and her face can shift from surprise into polite apology. "I don't know if I'm ever going to get used to that," Elsie says. She exhales through her nose and lets that hand drift away from her collarbone, working its way down her stomach towards the dress of her grown to squeeze. Cat is given a nod of acknowledgement to his question. "Very new. Like, less-than-a-day-new," she says, and then tips her head in consideration to the next question.

"I feel a bit like a fish out of water and gasping for air. Or like I'm trying to stand on rather slippery ground, but I'm... managing," Elsie admits. But just like -that-, there comes a familiar-sounding voice from across the circle. Once again, Elsie is presented with a familiar voice coming from an unfamiliar face. A familiar voice that is less-than-subtly hinting at eating her. Elsie's body language shifts to something a tad more defensive, and she, in her infinite naivity, shifts a little behind both Lydia in Cat. As if these strange, friendly new Faefolk might protect her.

But Mebh called out to Neve as well, and Elsie begins instinctively searching the crowd for the woman. And when she sees that Neve is laughing instead of defensive, Elsie lets out a long sigh through her lips and steps a little bit more forward from between both Cat and Lydia. She takes the drink that's offered to her and seems a little surprised when it shifts from a pale yellow to a rich, plum-like wine color, and then back again with the light. Elsie leans into the stage whisper with a soft bite to her bottom lip. Not one to blush, it's noteworthy then that Elsie's cheeks take on a hint of pink and she stammers her way through an introduction.

"This is... um, I mean, I think... Cat, right? Cat is Mouse's companion. Who is to be Marshall, if I'm not mistaken?" Elsie asks. Desperate to redirect the conversation.

─────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
"Cat, yes. The status of the vacancy has yet to be determined, sadly. But I don't think I've had the pleasure of either of your acquaintances, yet." Cat purrs charmingly, head tilting to one side. The feline himself seems little more than a shadow given a cat's form, except for those ruby red eyes. He licks a paw, grooming himself as Neve returns, inclining his head politely, or as polite as a can can be.
Mouse does a double-take, spilling hot coffee all over her hand as she totters to the table where her companion is harassing people for information. "Shit fuck. Goddamnit," She swears in a Boston accent, waving her scalded hand, snow-pale skin blotched pink, "No one's getting fucking eaten." Muttering further under her breath as the baggy-eyed elf pours more sugar into her coffee, quickly gulping it down, muttering to herself.
─────────────────────────
───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia looks towards Mebh as she arrives. It's hard not to, when the particular pooka is so attention grabbing. The little whine and comment about a morsel has Lydia frowning, though and she straightens her back, no longer leaning upon her spear. It's an annoyed sound that comes from her, something aggravated. This keeps happening. Mebh gets an icy look .

"It seems some people need lessons in remembering to be more gracious to our guests ," she says in a pointed, icy tone that leaves no question as to what she means. Then here's Neve, back at Elsie's side. Her smile here is warm once more--there's no hiding what it is that Lydia is thinking, it always shows plainly on her face

"Lady Neve, it's perfectly fine," she says with a dip of her head in acknowledgement. "I've been having a lovely chat with your guest, Lady Elsie. I actually met her the other day Tir na nOg. She's quite something," she says in a cheery tone, "I do look forward to more acquaintance with you, though, my Lady. Even if duty calls you away, I have been told you have a lovely voice. I play at music at times, and I'd be honored if you let me accompany you," she finishes, her tone a touch saccharine on the side of flattery.

"As for my name, I am Sir Lydia Laflamme ap Fiona," she says to Cat. "It is a pleasure to meet you," and she offers a hand, as if Cat might wish to shake.
─────────────────────────
───<Mebh>───────────────

	Mebh grins as everyone starts to question whether or not she was actually going to try. Alas, she might think herself the big, bad wolf, but a redcap she certainly wasn't. "Oh, come on, just a little game of chase? A hunter must hunt~" She teases, tail swishing along the ground behind her whilst she continues to wear a sly grin. "After all, I'm not the one bringing party favors to the meeting room." A hand is placed on her chest, fingers splayed out demurely. Getting those icy looks is only encouragement to one of her kith, "Lydia, Lydia, Lydia, how dare you accuse me of being an ungracious host! To accuse me of doing something uncouth! I'm the most gracious host. I bought my mortal three sets of voile, a whole food stand, and let her dance amongst the stars as she played music for the crowds who could truly appreciate her- a bright and brilliant star, that one. I even protected her from all the other animals who sought her hand."

────────────────────────
───<Hauk>───────────────
There's no smile, per se, that shows on Hauk's face as Neve moves to join him as he makes his way down from the dias after calling recess, but there is something in his eyes that hints at her presence being more than simply welcome. An arm slips around her to rest on her far hip as they speak quietly and for a brief time he refuses to acknowledge any of the other that might bet waiting for his ear.

Then, as one might expect, duty calls and they separate - Hauk mingling with those in attendance and stopping here and there to chat with one group or the other - noble or otherwise. Staff and functionaries find him, exchange documents and words with him, and then go off once more. Other small and brief meetings are had with just a look between the Steward and the Fae.

After an appropriate time passes, gauged as much by the feel of the room as the fact that his glass is now empty and to be set on the next tray that passes by, Hauk returns to the steps and moves up them to stand once more in front of the throne - his passage by Mebh along the way earns the pooka a nod in greeting that's polite, but .. professional.

Once more his voice carries through the garden, quiet and demanding of attention, yet somehow easy and without hint of strain to project so far. "Citizens, denizens, and those within the County , the Court of Scale and Vine resumes now. Let those with business with the Court make their way to the podium and petition it as they may."
────────────────────────
───<Neve>───────────────

"It's lovely to meet you, Cat. I'm Lady Neve, County Muse and Seneschal of Land's End," the platinum haired Leanhaun sidhe spoke in a warm, friendly tone. Unlike most of her otherwise Unseelie House, there was an aura of warmth and kindness that surrounded her-- some of which, at least, was provided by the flicker-flies that floated around her and constantly bathed her in a faint glow like that of a torchlight. Those that saw it easily felt the stirrings of hope and inspiration, a sudden sense that everything might actually be okay. Elsie was even surrounded by a similar set of her own flicker-flies so that there was a small swarm well above their heads when they stood so close together.

Neve's eyes flicker to Mebh, and the most reaction she gets out of the sidhe is the way that Neve slips her arm possessively around Elsie's waist, still smiling. "I think you had quite enough fun at the lighthouse."

But then Neve's gaze is over on Lydia and her eyes seem to glow a radiance kindled by those words. Flattery, both of Elsie and herself, it appeared would get one plenty of place where Neve was concerned. "I'm glad you were able to keep her company in my absence-- both times," the blonde said warmly. "And I you. I would love for you to accompany me. Tir na nOg is a wonderful place for it, but there are others as well. And I do hope you'll come to Land's End."

There's a bit of sheepishness that touches the the corners of Neve's eyes, however, as she lowers her voice some. Those blue orbs shift to Hauk and then back to Lydia almost conspiratorially. "If you ask the Steward, he'll tell you that there are vacancies available at both the county and the barony that need to be filled, but he won't tell you that we throw the absolute best parties in the whole of the Kingdom at Land's End."
────────────────────────
───<Elsie>───────────────

Elsie Graham is not immune to praise, even if she does seem to wilt beneath the light of it. It's such a contrast then, to Neve. Tall and light-haired, blossoming with praise. Short and dark-haired, preferring to blend into the background. Even still, Elsie does cast a brief and fleeting gaze towards Lydia, bites her lip, and gives a rather pleased smile. It seems she was right to step behind the satyr after all. For the most part, however, she lets Neve do the talking. Except, of course, when it's her greeting that's required. "Elizabeth Graham," she says to Cat, "But only my mum and dad called me Elizabeth. Elsie is just fine, though I'll admit I'm beginning to warm to 'Lady Elsie'. It sounds so dignified."

When Neve's arm slips around her waist, the mortal steps a little closer to close the distance in that half-embrace. She doesn't drape over the other woman so much as just lean into. A subtle shift of her weight to place some, but not all, upon Neve. Her hand reaches up to lay fondly over the sidhe woman's forearm, and she gives another glance about.

"I was telling her how you sing there with the band. Like, first name basis. She's kind of a big deal, you guys," Elsie says. Her dialect is purely American, even if her accent rings with that stubborn accent that pits her as born somewhere between Glasgow and Edinburgh. She also seems to be particularly blossoming with pride. And why wouldn't she be?

When Hauk calls court back into session, Elsie quiets down a little. She gives a look up and over her shoulder towards Neve, questioning if the woman needs to take her leave once more. But when the subject of conversation turns to -parties-, that seems to get a genuine flicker in the mortal's dark and stormy eyes. And it isn't a trick of the light playing off of that intricate, peacock-colored makeup. Almost opalescent.

"Do you now? You neglected to mention that," Elsie says, and glances down at the gown that, in her own words, was 'the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Aside from you, of course'.

"Is this overdressed or underdressed? I'd believe literally anything you told me at this point."

─────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
Mouse is certainly under-dressed, the elf's kit practically mortal in appearance. The threat of anyone being eaten seeming to have passed, she pulls her hood up and buries herself in her coffee, letting Cat continue his social calls at the feline's leisure.
 "Lady Neve. Sir Lydia. Elizabeth-who-is-called Elsie. And." Cat's ear twitches, glancing over at the wolf who seems to have started the present drama. There's a lingering look of recognition in the feline's own ruby eyes, but he quickly turns back to the table, quickly quieting down with a polite clearing of his throat as the court is called back to session.
─────────────────────────
───<Lydia>───────────────

"I"m certain you did, Lady Mebh. I'm more worried about Miss Elsie, of course," Lydia says with a faint 'sniff' of mild disdain. There might be more words to be said, but then court is being put back into proper session and decides to leave a dramatic argument for another day. Day one in the county is not the best time to do that--even if it might be kinda fun.

"Of course I'll come to Land's End," Lydia inists to Neve. "I've heard it's a realm of House Fiona, and I couldn't possibly stay away from visiting a kinsperson, could I? I hope to see you there, and perhaps play some music," Lydia says in her accented voice. "I admit I'm a little inclined to investigate the barony, but I don't want to make any rash decisions," she adds with a wink. Elsie leaning into Neve gets a little nod and a pleased smile at the the bitten lip from Lydia. Still got it--of course she does, she's a satyr.

"That's the question, isn't it?" She murmurs to Elsie. "It depends on whose court you're visiting," and with that she leans forward a little, hand hovering near Cat.

"Do you accept pets, dear Cat?"
─────────────────────────
───<Mebh>───────────────

	The pooka takes a step up, as she usually does, and with the grace an etiquette, for once, of someone befitting a place on the county court and an Unseelie courtier both. She stands at attention after a formal bow, and speaks when it is her turn to give voice. "I, Mebh ní Ciardha, would like to announce to his lordship the Count that a letter has been sent to House Eiluned for a restoration of my Title, whatever they see fit to give, that I might serve this land in a more official capacity. I am still waiting on reply, but on this day of the beginning of the second half of my Fledgehood, I felt it noteworthy news. It is my intention to join Dame Crow as a member of her barony- and, should you need the official capacities of one that House Eiluned might profer, then on the day of my appointment I will provide it. It is also my wish, that, as my mentor, the right of Saining my name be given to Dame Crow as well." With her news relayed, she steps back to her seat.

────────────────────────
───<Hauk>───────────────
Various pieces of business, minor disputes, a few agreements and some horse trading ( literal and otherwise ) is handled betwixt the restoration of the Court to order and Mebh taking her turn and making her desire of the Court and Count as a whole.

Hauk listens to the Pooka with the same neutral expression he's maintained for all of the proceedings of the Court today, taking a few moments of relative quiet before he responds, "Resumption of one's Title and taking back the mantle of duty associated with it are always momentous and noteworthy events. I'm certain that Dame Crow and her Barony will be enriched by your presence and the focus of your assistance to her efforts. " He pauses then, just for a moment, before continuing in those same attention demanding tones of his, "The right of Saining and the proffering of a position at this Court are both matters I can but offer opinion on as the Count's Voice, so instead I shall pass on your request and offer both to him so that he might decide on how to answer them both. "

There's another pause and a touch of a smile at the corners of his mouth as he concludes, "Let me be the first, however, to congratulate you in advance on your re-entitlement, Mebh."
────────────────────────
───<Elsie>───────────────

"Oh," Elsie says softly to Lydia's words. Here expression changes from one of curiosity to something a little more... knowing. She locks eyes with the Satyr and there is a brief exchange of nonverbalized information, and then Elsie nods. Right. There are some -freaky- parties here in Fairy land. That makes entirely too much sense. Elsie turns her body towards the court again, though her shoulder still leans up against Neve's side. She seems hesitant and reluctant (with good reason, really) to release contact with the other woman. At least this way, she is clearly marked as Neve's. And that seems to be good for a great deal of things, including her own personal safety.

She watches Mebh's title be restored to her, looking particularly at the woman's eyes as she's granted the title. They -are- the same eyes she saw in that lighthouse, after all. She knew there was something strange, didn't she? But then that motion on her right carries forward. Lydia asks if Cat accepts pets, and Elsie's eyes turn towards his companion: Mouse. As Lydia reaches down to pet Cat, it seems only natural that Elsie try to reach forward and place a few delicate pats atop the behooded woman with the coffee's head. Why? A bit of whimsy, perhaps.

─────────────────────────
───<Mouse>───────────────
The umbral cat blinks, the shadowy outlines of that chimerical form vibrating with a thrumming purr. "Since you ask," he acquiesces, magnanimously, inclining his neck and chin into scritches. Ever wonder what it's like to run your fingers through liquid night? It's sort of like that.
 Mouse is feeling less generous, and the first hint of a pat to the hooded elf's head causes a stiffening of her shoulders, the smol but angry bean sidhe glaring with baleful red eyes from under her hood, a thin, malevolent hiss in that thick Boston accent. "What. The absolute. Fuck."
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───<Lydia>───────────────

Lydia seems absolutely delighted by this sensation for her part. She carefully gives Cat a few gentle pets, pats, and well deserved scratches behind the ear. Because he is a cat and no other reason. They are very pettable creatures, cats. There's a faint snort, an amused laugh at the display from Mouse. Pets for Cat pause and she reaches out to gently catch at Elsie's free, petting hand and enfold it in both her own.

"Mind who you lay your hands upon, dear Elsie. Some might have bitten a finger or the whole hand off and not just said a few foul words," she says in gentle, fond admonishment.
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───<Hauk>───────────────
As the day winds down and the list of petitioners waiting dwindles as well, eventually the day reaches a point that Hauk decides it's time to bring the official portion of the event to a close. Once he completes the business with some matter about a Troll, and bridge to literally nowhere he pauses a moment before speaking to the audience at large.

"Thank you, one and all, fellow Fae of the Court of Scale and Vine. Your presence, discourse, creativity and investment are well and truly the core of the County. This Open Court now adjourns, the next to be announced in the usual fashion."

With no more fanfare than that Hauk steps down from the dias and with a gesture the short posts that demarced that semicircle around the foot of the dias lower back into the soft grass at their feet. He starts off towards one side of the Gardens, aiming for one of the secluded alcoves to presumably take abit of time not in the limelight and get a few moments of relative quiet.
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