503-12-25 Phaeton weds Bella
From Crossroads Wiki
It's December 25th, 503
The long awaited wedding of Baron Phaeton Forester to his bride, Annabella. It took place upon the familial lands of the Foresters, Emerald Hollow on Green Fields.
The wedding and reception is taking place outside the Barony Keep, in a field that is covered in wild flowers. The trees of the forest that ring the meadow are vibrant and fully leafed. This field has been transformed into a sparkling, colorful wonderland. The trees surrounding the field have been hung with garlands of bright flowers. The weather is magically warm, and the skies clear. There is a large pavillion in the middle of the field, made of emerald green silk, long pieces of burgundy fabric hanging from the top of the tent, and flapping in the breeze. Beneath the pavillion, are tables and chairs, and a band set up. There are huge buffet tables laden with food of the Isle, mostly roasted game, vegetables, fruits, all types of desserts, and of course, kegs and kegs of ale.
The wedding itself takes place below an arbor constructed for the occasion, and covered in flowers. Rows of chairs are placed before the arbor for the wedding guests.
Melody makes her way over to the seating area, looking around for Malachi. She takes a seat, and waits for the wedding to begin.
A glance from Phineas takes in the form of Murdock with Phailin. He arches a brow, expression not entirely pleasant, and then moves along toward the arbor. He escorts Aileana to it and turns toward her to bend in and deliver a kiss to her cheek, breathing a quiet word.
Malachi meanders his way around to the area apportioned for the wedding ceremony, peering about the place, seeming to scan those gathering for something in particular. From out of the Baronial Keep come what one might guess (or know, if they are acquainted with the new caretaker of Foxfire Cradle) to be his servants. Two of them bear armbands with a torch-wielding spectre in a black robe, set against a foggy scene, while the others possess armbands showing mountains scenery with swamps and inland lakes. They all wear heavy veils, and linger on the skirts of the place as their benefactor seems to spy his quarry. So it is he ambles his way toward Melody, using his cane for support, excitedly waving to her with his free hand. He sports a broad, dark carmine smile as he looks over the young lass, continuing to close the distance between them.
Aileana nods to Phineas as she slowly drops her hand away from her arm, "I'm aware." She smiles warmly as she takes her place under the arbor, waiting for the bride and groom to meet her there...if they both show up.
The Guardian contingent is small; indeed, it consists entirely of the Duke and Duchess. For her part, Asha looks somewhat subdued on Phaedrus' arm, observing the proceedings with polite, cautious interest. This is, after all, a strange land!
Card heads away from the archery fields and to the place where the ceremony is happening. He is alone, but nicely dressed, and he makes his way over to the groom's side of the seats to have a sit. He finds plenty to observe in looking at The various Dukes and Duchesses, the reunions and meetings of old friends, studying all with an air of detatchment.
Murdock notes the guardian Duke and Dutchess and gives them a warm smile and a crisp salute. There is one more guardian here.
Mena remains quiet and observant in her seat on the far end of one row, her two knights guarding quite attentively.
There are quite a few people in the seats already. Seems Bella's entire family has shown up. Only her father is missing, presumably escorting the bride down the aisle in a moment. But all other 53 family members are here. Mother, brothers and their wives, nieces and nephews.
Having delivered Aileana to her appointed location, Phineas turns to face the seats and takes a moment to look them over with the solid confidence of a man who clearly feels he's in his own lands and element, regardless of questions about him holding a title or him being a wanted man. He gives a courteously respectful bow of his head toward Asha and Phaedrus when he notes their contingent, then moves to claim a seat next to Philomena.
Mena looks toward Phineas as he sits down next to her, giving him a warm smile as she leans in to murmur quietly to him.
Phailin offers a curtsey to the Duke and the Duchess of Guardians. She moves to take a seat. She does look over her shoulder to see if Murdock perchance will follow. She sits wherever a woman of her station would sit. Presumbably next to Phineas or behind him, next row over.
Murdock is just waiting to see where Phailin settles. Once she claims a chair he moves over to sit with her.
Asha flickers a swift smile toward Phineas, nodding back to him before she and Phaedrus take their seat. Asha lets Phaedrus do the determining about where they're supposed to sit. Another nod goes to Murdock and Phailin.
Malachi settles down in the chair immediately to one side of Melody, lowering himself carefully down, moving to plant a chaste kiss upon one of her cheeks. He uses his free arm to try and hold her close against him, whispering into her ear as he peers about at the large group all around. He sniffles, rubbing a knuckle against the bottom of his nose as he looks down to Melody. Indubitably, the petite Baron seems, if it's at all possible, even more hyper and cheery than usual, those who know him might suppose.
The knights that sit near to the Empress hae tight expressions. One seems to habitually stroke the crossbow at his side as they guard their charge.
The Baron (this one!) comes walking out from the castle in some rather surprisingly dapper-looking togs, walking steadily towards the gathering with a comfortable smile on his lips. He approaches the others and walks up the isle, taking time to greet various individuals as he takes his appropriate place, hugs given to siblings. "I'm here! I'm not running late, am I?" He stands there barefoot as ever, and beams brightly up at his twin.
Phoebe Forester silently graces a seat, sitting and glancing around briefly.
Phineas is sitting near Mena, actually. He aims a grin toward his twin at the front.
Once the Baron has arrived, and makes his way up to his place in front of and slightly to the right of Aileana, music begins to play from somewhere nearby. There must be musicians situated in the woods. The music signalling the start of the ceremony.
Aileana just waits patiently for the bride and groom to join her, the slightest bit of shifting from one foot to the other. She does have a small pouch in hand, the tip of parchment able to be noted by the observant.
Walking with careful grace comes Bella's chosen witness, her dear friend, Eira. Silently with a faint shy smile and eyes shinning with happiness, Eira walks slowly from the back row of seats and starts down the aisle. Wearing a long dress of dark blue silk, Eira carries in her hands a small boquet of burgendy roses and tiger-lilies. In her short red hair are little silver clasps in the shape of flowers. Once she reaches the end of the isle, she takes a seat in the front left row.
Murdock folds his hands in his lap and trys his darnest to be quiet. The effort has him looking slightly bug eyed, but so far Murdock has been wonderfully silent.
Melody snuggles up against Malachi, leaning up some to give his cheek a kiss, murmuring back to him. The young girl seems quite excited and happy, by all indications, much like her companion seems to be. They watch the goings on, quietly whispering to each other every now and then, billing and cooing like the epitome of young lovers.
Bella suddenly appears at the tail end of the aisle, her arm slipped through the crook of an elderly man's arm. He can only be her father. The old man is dressed in new clothes for the occassion, a burgundy and green great coat, and green britches. His feet are bare. The bride is elegantly decked out in an extravagant gown. Upon her head, a circlet of flowers, and she also carries a bouquet. She looks rather nervous, but smiles brightly, as she makes her way down the aisle, giving those she makes eye contact with a nod of her head and a soft smile.
Aileana smiles to both the bride and the groom as they arrive before her, a deep breath taken before she speaks clear and loud enough for all to hear , "Providence has brought us together on this day to unite this couple in the contractual union of marriage between Miss Annabella Accoucheur and Baron Phaeton Caspian Harris Anthony Forester both of Green Fields. Who of the Accoucheur family presents this woman as a candidate worthy of entering into this union?"
As the bride and groom arrive, Mena smiles with warmth and a small trace of relief. This wedding really /is/ happening.
The elderly man next to Bella looks both like he's beaming with pride, and nervous at the same time. "Her father, Your Grace," he says, in a gravelly voice. He looks to Bella, and then kisses her cheek, before releasing her hand.
Isinglass is here too, no sketchpad this evening, and he smiles with his broad thin lips when Bella passes. He even looks a little glossy-eyed. Emo!
Aileana gives a small nod, speaking once again, "So let it be recorded." She then looks to Phaeton to ask, "And who of Emerald Hollow accepts this presentation?"
Holding her little boquet carefully in her lap, Eira silently watches Bella and Phaeton with a big smile, her eyes shinning with happiness for them.
Phoebe looks around slowly, glancing at the Forester siblings in turn when Aileana asks who is accepting the bride. Phoebe's lips remain neutral as she turns back. Silent.
Phineas glances around at his family for a few moments before he rises to his feet and says, firmly, "I do, and the Hollow will welcome her as the Baroness."
Phailin was just about to say something and well her big brother beats her to it and she silences once again.
Phaeton looks back around and raises an eyebrow, "Would someone please bloody well accept? Oh, thank you Finn." He chuckles and gives his twin a wide grin before winking at Bella and standing next to her, briefly squeezing the spare hand before looking back up at Aileana.
Asha is quiet, save for a few words murmured now and then to Phaedrus at her side. She just observes, though it's certainly with interest.
Mena blinks a bit as Phineas stands up to claim acceptance of Bella for the Forester family. But it is quickly followed by a quietly amused expression.
Bella looks really nervous as for several moments, none of the Foresters says anything in response to the Duchess's request. When Phineas finally speaks up, she looks a bit relieved. At Phaeton's outburst, she blushes brightly, looking even more nervous!
Aileana blinks a bit as Phineas answers though certainly doesn't object, "So let it be recorded." And then the Duchess starts to relax in her role of this wedding or maybe she is just getting excited about the next part, ""What price will be offered to the Accoucheur family in exchange for their offering?" She can't hide her smile as she waits to see this part of the show.
Eira blinks a bit at the silence preceeding Phineas' acceptance of the match, but does not look around. Then as the acceptance is made she grins at Bella and then looks to Aileana as the ceremony continues, curious to see what will come next.
Phineas inclines his head and settles in his chair once more. He says something soft to Mena as he watches the pair.
Card watches from the middle of this crowd, his rapt and attentive eyes soaking in the details of this affair in silence. He never looks to the side, he never seems bored.
Phailin nudges Phineas momentairly once he settles. Than she looks to the pair, watching.
Mena's head cants slightly to the side as she watches the ceremony, not taking her eyes from it as she replies quietly to her brother.
Phaeton clears his throat and grins softly, "If I may?" He unrolls a small scroll pulled from his coat and begins to recite, "Firstly, the Accoucheur Clinic will be funded in perpetuity, and provided all that it needs. Secondly, the bride's parents will receive one platinum per month for the rest of their lives. I also offer one herd of finest cattle, twenty trees from the Keeper's Forest, a new trap and buggy, and fifty kegs of Special Reserve ale!" The various items have been quietly gathered and are on display in the next field.
The calculation of the bride price raises an ever so slow brow upon the Baroness Forester's face, Phoebe's lips pursing. A quick, cursatory glance around at her other siblings before back to Phaeton and the ceremony. Silent.
Aileana looks to Annabella's Father and smiles, "Who accepts this presentation?"
Asha arches a brow at the total as well, looking to Phaedrus rather curiously before she turns her attention back to the ceremony.
There are 53 bright smiles from the bride's side of the aisle. Bella's father is about to bust the buttons on his great coat, he's so proud. "I accept, Your Grace," he says, in a serious tone. Bowing, he then steps back, to join his wife in the front row, next to where Eira sits.
Bella continues to stand next to Phaeton, and she looks up at him, with a warm and caring smile as he announces the bride price. She gives him a squeeze of his hand, before looking back to Aileana.
Aileana takes another deep breath, pausing in the exhale as if trying to make sure she's ordering the ceremony properly, "In so much as both parties have accepted the offerings presented before them let us petition Providence for a blessing of this union." Another pause is given as she asks, "And do you, Miss Annabella Accoucheur, agree with the acceptance of the presentation and with it take on the full responsibilities and privileges of marriage to this man? Do you give your oath to honor, protect, support, care for and cherish him? Do you vow from this day forward to faithfully serve Green Fields as a united couple ruling over the Barony of Emerald Hollow?"
Eira grins up briefly at Bella's father when the man takes a seat next to her, but then looks back over at Bella, Phaeton, and Aileana, positively beaming with happiness for Bella and Phaeton. As Bella is asked if she accepts the arrangement, Eira watches her friend expectantly with a grin.
Bella seems to stop breathing for a moment, as Aileana rattles off the questions that she must agree to, to marry Phaeton. She doesn't say anything at first. In fact, for a few long moments, it looks like she might not say anything at all, and just drop into a dead faint. Slowly, though, she turns to Phaeton, taking both of his hands in hers, and smiling warmly at him. "I accept, and promise," she says, in a trembling tone.
"Oh good!" Aileana replies as she releases a breath she didn't know she was holding. She then gains some cheerful momentum as she asks Phaeton, ""Do you, Baron Phaeton Forester, agree with the acceptance of the presentation and with it take on the full responsibilities and privileges of marriage to this woman? Do you give your oath to honor, protect, support, care for and cherish him? Do you vow from this day forward to faithfully serve Green Fields as a united couple ruling over the Barony of Emerald Hollow?"
Murdock leans in and asks of Phailin, "Is there going to be any running or fire or fights in this wedding? Seems pretty quiet"
Phaeton lets out a breath himself when she responds, squeezing her hands in return as he beams, nodding at Aileana, "Fully, totally, and without reservation, I do." He smiles brightly at Bella and tilts his head to look at her, glancing about at family with a wide smile. "I accept and promise."
Phailin listens to what Murdock has to say and shrugs some, "I am not sure what else will entail. Quiet can be good." Murmuring back to her husband.
Phailin does look relieved that the wedding is going so smoothly! Phaeton is getting mmmmmaaaaarrrriiiiieeeed!
"So let it be recorded. And now as a symbol of the exchanging of these vows spoken this day, let the wedding necklaces be presented to one another." Aileana looks down at the pouch and starts to open it, "I have those..just a second here." She pulls out Annabella's and hands it to Phaeton, and then Phaeton's goes to Annabella, "Right, so put those on each other."
Quiet looks like it might possibly kill him. Murdock sits back straight in his seat and trys to shut up again....looking slightly pained by the effort.
Phineas glances away from the scene before him to survey the crowd a moment before his eyes train back upon his twin.
Bella accepts the necklace from the Duchess, and then turns fully towards Phaeton. Smiling, she holds the necklace up for the crowd to see, and then leans forward, on her tiptoes, to try to put the necklace over Phaeton's head and around his neck.
Eira beams with smiles at her friend Bella as the necklace is show to the public. The girl's eyes are even starting to become a bit moist with happiness.
Ducking his head slightly, Phaeton lets Bella put on the necklace with a proud smile, before holding her own to display. Then he carefully puts it around her neck and lets it come to rest, displaying the crest of the Fields, his own resting just above his official crest of the Emerald Hollow, both sparkling and polished brightly.
Aileana watches the necklace exchange until it's completion, and finally speaks, "Let these necklaces be a constant reminder of the weight of the vows that were agreed to before all of the witnesses present." And one more deep breath before the Green Fields Duchess ends with, "With the power vested in Me by our Emperor Rourke Caprios, a vessel for the word of Providence, I offer my blessing on this union and pronounce you Baron Phaeton and Baroness Annabella Forester husband and wife." She steps away from the pair and then quickly adds, "Oh! And you can kiss....if you want to."
Phailin waits in anticipation to see that kiss!
Bella accepts the necklace from Phaeton with a warm smile. She then giggles a little nervously at the Duchess' last comment. She looks up at Phaeton, a bit shyly, nibbling on her lower lip. Wondering if he will kiss her or not.
Phineas watches his sibling with a steady expression, his lips moving over something soundless.
Fifty three pairs of eyes are glued to Phaeton right now, as Bella's family all leans forward a little in their seats. No pressure there.
And of course Mena is still watching raptly as well.
Phaeton grins at Aileana and gives a beam before pulling Bella to him, bringing his lips to hers in a gentle but enthusiastic kiss, the only sign of the Baron's slight nerves is the light flush on his cheeks. He releases her after a moment but leaves an arm around her waist and turns to look at the gathered people, "I think now would be a good time to party!"
Murdock has to pipe up.....he can't help it... "You can do it...I figured out how after I got married"
Mena chuckles softly and starts applauding for the newlyweds.
As a kiss is suggested, Eira's eyes widen a bit and she watches uncertainly. Then seeing the kiss, Eira's smile is brilliant and she claps with great excitement and enthusiasm. She even makes a little squeak of a cheer which is certainly probably drowned out by Bella's family.
Bella gasps a little as Phaeton suddenly pulls her forward and kisses her. She wraps her arms around his broad shoulders, her gentle form pressed against him during the length of the kiss. When it ends, she smiles brightly, a look of great relief on her face.
"Only after?" Asha calls back to Murdock with a crooked smile before she adds her own applause to the rest.
Aileana beams as the wedding ends, "I agree." She then looks to her husband and grins, clearly more relieved now that the ceremony is over, "Everyone drink ale."
There's a huge cheer from the bride's side of the aisle. Suddenly, all nine of Bella's brothers rush over to the new groom, and start to pummel him goodnaturedly. "We knew you could do it, Phae! She's not THAT ugly!" pipes up one of Bella's brothers.
Murdock flashes a bright grin at Asha. "Well...it had been awhile before that. Remembered maybe?'
Eira rises from her seat and hastens quickly to Bella's side. After murmuring something softly to her friend she places a soft kiss of congradulations to her cheek, playing the role of a sister.
Card rises after they kiss and applauds with gloved hands, which sounds like pat pat pat with a dulled edge. He forms a quiet sort of grin that shows relief.
Phineas gives a loud, huge 'Huzzah' as the kiss is given and the cheers break forth. He rises and offers an arm to the Empress. "Coming to congratulate him?"
Phoebe watches the kiss, before silently raising and giving a little applause herself. Not another word, as Phoebe tips her head and begins to try to make a quiet exit.
Phailin grins and applauds when Phaeton's marriage is sealed with a kiss as she rises from her own seat.
Bella smiles brightly at Eira, and hugs her closely! At her friend's whispered words, she beams brightly. "Thank you, dear," she says, before turning to greet the rest of the well-wishers.
Mena nods as she takes Phineas's arm without hesitation. "Of course," she answers agreeably.
Before the newlywed couple is crowded, Aileana does offer quietly, "Congratulations you two. Have plenty of babies."
Phaeton is too surrounded by people at the moment for Eira, so after hugging Bella back tightly, she discreetly steps back to let Bella greet the rest of her well wishers. The girl isn't much for large gatherings so quietly she inches more and more towards the border of the gathering.
Bella turns and gives Aileana a hug. "Thank you, Your Grace. It was a beautiful ceremony. Thank you," she says, blushing a bit at the 'have plenty of babies' comment.
Asha hangs back a bit, waiting for the rush of family and...well, Fielders, to abate somewhat. Instead, she lowers her voice for a quiet comment to Phaedrus, one that looks like a question.
Phaeton is mobbed by nine brother-in-laws and laughs with a grin, "She's stunning, particularly on her wedding day! It was fine." He grins widely, and nods his head at Aileana with a wink, "Planning on it!" He scratches at his neck slightly and nudges Bella a little, a wide grin spread across his face.
Bella's brothers finally let go of Phaeton, and make their way over to the party tent. Someone mentioned ale! Bella's parents come up, and give Phaeton a hug. "Welcome to the family," her mother says.
Aileana steps away, moving quickly to her son to scoop him up, "Sher, you were so good!"
Phineas tips his head to his youngest sister and then moves forward toward Phaeton and Bella. "Well Twin, Sister of marriage, contratulations to you both," he says warmly, but from a distance behind the mobbing brothers. "Baroness Bella, Your Excellency, I think that the two of you have some celebrating to do!"
Success. Phoebe Forester exits without reproach.
Malachi and Melody gingerly rise together, the diminutive Mistian leaning down to plant an appreciate kiss upon the little Guardians lass' head. They head for Phaeton and Bella -- or rather, as close as they can get -- patiently waiting on the outskirts before they try to move to congratulate the newlyweds.
"Yes, indeed," Mena agrees with Phineas, her knights still following behind her. "Congratulations to the both of you." Her smile is bright as she releases Phineas's arm.
Phailin is right behind Phineas. With Murdock in tow, likely. She smiles at all the merriment that goes on and calls out to Bella and Phaeton, "Congratulations! Looking forward to the babies."
Sheriden had his toy doggy to occupy him during the ceremony, which he played with quietly. Of course when mommy approaches the toy is forgotten and both arms shoot out in that universal kid 'pick me up' sign.
Bella smiles at Phaeton, and giggles a little. As the Foresters start to come up to congratulate them, she smiles brightly. "Thank you, Phineas," she says, "Yes, I think celebrating is definitely in order!" She leans forward, giving him a hug and whispering in his ear for a moment, before turning to Mena. "Your Majesty," she says, curtseying to Mena. "I'm so glad you could attend." Her gaze finds Phailin and Murdock as she gets up from her curtsey and she gives them a warm smile.
Aileana gives Sheriden a kiss on the cheek as she cuddles her boy against her chest, "Uncle Phaeton just got married. You have a new Aunt." She points out Bella to her little one.
Murdock is oh so glad to be done with the sitting part of that. He does indeed trail after Phailin, offering quiet smiles to the various family as the wander past.
Phineas is unreserved in the hug that he delivers to Bella, cupping her cheek for a moment before he leans back and nods to his sibling. He says something very quiet to her in turn, and glances toward where his wife is. He offers his arm to Mena again.
Phaeton returns the hug to Bella's mother, and beams, "And welcome to mine!" After she disengaged, he grins and heads over to his twin, laughing, "Yes yes, we'll get to that later, but first we party!" He grins and hugs Phineas tightly, "Damn good to see you, Finn. Couldn't possibly get married without you here! Come join us in the tent, I've had things organised to last a good three days. Might as well enjoy the excuse for a festival!"
Phineas gives a fierce hug to Phaeton when it's time. "I'm not one to let a little thing like legalities or misperception stand in the way of being at your wedding, Phae," he comments warmly. He gives a respectful nod to Bella's mother.
Duchess Asha stands eventually, once the crowd has thinned somewhat, and moves toward the group of people. She lingers on the outside, though, still speaking quietly with Phaedrus.
Phailin attempts to step in a little closer so she can offer her hugs to the bride and groom. Telling Bella, "Well, looks like you inherited some sisters now." A hand nudging Phaeton's shoulder tellling him, "Well, you did it!"
Bella gives her parents both a warm hug, and then says, "Come on, let's go to the tent. Can't let all that ale be drunk by my brothers, after all!
Mena gives a smile to those gathering around to give the couple congratulations as she starts to step back away from the line herself.
Bella gives her parents both a warm hug, and then says, "Come on, let's go to the tent. Can't let all that ale be drunk by my brothers, after all!" She grins at Phaeton, and giving him a quick kiss on the cheek, she weaves her way through the crowd, finding Eira and taking her hand. "Come on, my friend. I say we get drunk. It's a Green Field tradition, you know."
Card grins as he watches the family, then as they are bid into the tent for the party, the thief slips on in. WHat's awesome about parties with lots of rich people getting drunk is...that he's likely to make quite a bit of gold and no one is even going to care!
Murdock offers Bella a hug and Phae a hand shake when it comes his turn in line. "Good luck and good wishes to you guys.
Sheriden is quite happy to be hugged by his mom, looking off in the direction she points, but at wrong people, or person rather. "Daddy!" The boy hollers suddenly, mom forgotten as his arms stretch out in Phineas' direction.
Melody does return the hug from Murdock before slipping into the crowd.
Bella does return the hug from Murdock before slipping into the crowd.
Phailin steps back after offering her hugs and congratulations to the wedded couple and looks over to Murdock, "Well, one more Forester is married off. Just got to get Nix next, I gather."
From the sidelines, Eira watches Bella and Phaeton with a warm smile, but then as everyone heads off towards the ale, she, unnoticed, heads off the other way.
Aileana chuckles as Sheriden calls for his Father, "I can see you two have had a good time." She sits her boy down to let him run for his new goal.
Murdock grins at Phailin...."Then what will you all do for a hobby?"
Phailin blinks at Murdock momentairly and than chuckles, "Are you saying that I see my sibling weddings as a hobby? There are quite a few of us, after all. Oh wait there's Bee to..."
Duchess Asha moves toward the couple, offering a warm smile. "Congratulations, your excellencies," she says politely. "May your marriage be full of love. And many children," she adds with a laugh.
Phineas turns his full attention toward the call from his boy, and he goes down to a knee to meet the charge from Sheridan with a warm laugh. "Sheriden!" He holds out his hands with a warm light to his features. "Where's my big boy?"
Murdock blinks at Asha...then laughs, blushing. "Oh...children. Right. That becomes the next hobby.'
Aileana walks several paces behind her son so that she can join her husband, her smile bright for him, "They did it. They're married!"
Phailin looks back at Murdock, "Well, not nessicarly. Flowers is a good hobby and livelihood to fall back on."
Bella smiles warmly at Phailin, and then as Duchess Asha congratulates her. There's that 'lots of children' thing again. "Thank you, Your Grace. I'm so glad you could make the journey. Of course, I guess we're family now!" she says, with a warm smile.
Mena walks to an unoccupied area for a few minutes, speaking quietly with the knights that follow her.
As Bella encourages Eira to join the festivities and get good and drunk, Eira grins a bit and with a soft laugh with eyes gleaming mirthfully says, "Alright... maybe just this once... But know I only do this cause you just got married."
Phaeton watches his twin and son with a soft smile before looking up. He grins softly and then heads towards the festival tent, looking around and chattering with various people as he passes. He does stop to look at that massive dog as he grins ruffling Ivanhoe's head as scritches behind the ear, "Geeze, Finn. He's as big as a pony!"
"It seems to multiply that way," Asha chuckles ruefully to Bella. "But don't worry, the Foresters aren't too bad as in-laws. Well. Except for-" And all of a sudden, the Duchess of Guardian herself looks a bit nervous, quickly turning to scan the crowd. Surely Firenza Forester couldn't have stayed silent this long if she was around!
Bella giggles a bit at Eira's comment. "Well, you only live once, darling!" she says to her friend. As they walk to the tent with Asha and the rest of the crowd, she grins at the Duchess' comment. "I'll keep that in mind, Your Grace," she says.
Sheriden charges for Phineas full speed, ducking around legs until he can get to his father, arms out like he's going to hug him. Of course, to contradict this sweet moment, the boy doesn't slow down when he reaches his father but growls as ferociously as he can instead and tries to tackle him, "Got you!"
"He'll get as big as a horse, eventually," Phineas murmur to Paheton, a grin aimed at sibling, wife, and then his son. He laughs loudly as his son dives at him, deliberately going down with the tackle and keeping Sheriden on his chest. "You did get me, didn't you? What have we been feeding you, bricks? You weigh like a small horse yourself."
Aileana laughs at Sheriden and Phineas's antics, her smile clearly not fading any time soon, "I take it you two had a fantastic time? How does he like Ivanhoe?"
Murdock finds himself an out of the way tree and leans on it, watching people socialise.
As Bella leads Eira to the tent with the rest of the crowd, Eira quietly scans the rest of the area and notices Murdock leaning against a tree. With a faint friendly grin, she raises a hand in greeting to him.
Once the party gets started, there seem to be dozens of servers around with trays, going through the crowd outside the tent and within it. They offer drinks and food to everyone. The band starts up, a lively tune for dancing. Dozens of people already fill the tent, and it's getting rather loud already.
Murdock smiles brightly and waves back to Eira. "Having fun Sad girl?"
Phaeton laughs and watches the horse-play before standing and grinning. He wanders over towards a keg to help himself to a tankard of something strong, and watches the party for a little while.
Phailin takes an ale and notices that Murdock isn't around her and she looks about and spys him leaning against a tree. She gives a quiet smile as she sips on the ale, nodding to those she recongizes.
Sheriden beams down at his father, looking triumphant. Oh yeah, he just took down his dad! He perks up at the mention of food, looking around, "'m hungry!"
Bella takes two tankards of ale from a passing tray, and hands one to Eira. "Drink up, my friend," she says, grinning and starting to drink the ale in her tankard rather greedily. She sees Phaeton from across the room, and gives him a smile.
Duchess Asha, alas, does not partake of the alcohol available at the party, though she certainly looks longingly toward the spread. The disappointment doesn't last long, though; she finds something non-alcoholic and settles in for the party.
Murdock is watching and when he sees Phailin look hs way, he gives her a grin and becons to her.
Phineas leverages himself to his feet, hauling his son up with him so that he can finally claim his hug before putting Sheriden on the ground. "We'll get you some food, then," he advises. "We had a fantastic time indeed, and he loves Ivan. He even rode him a bit. Craziest thing ever." He laughs and herds wife and son toward the tent for food. Once there, he glances about and tips his head toward Asha, calling a cheerful, "Good to see you, Duchess Little Sister."
Eira nods at Murdock with a grin. Yes, he calls her sad girl. Then after she is given a tankard of ale, she looks a bit uncertain, seeing her friend drink up so well, she places it to her lips, tilts her head back and drinks as long as she can, draining nearly half of it. Once she lowers the tankard she blinks strongly a few times. "Wow..." Strong taste.
Phailin keeps ahold of her mug and moves over to where Murdock is. She does pass a server and asks him something quietly. In a few moments her other hand holds a glass of milk as she finally reaches, Murdock.
From her long conversation with the pair of knights, Mena steps into the shelter of the tent and the festivities within.
Murdock gives a soft surprised laugh as he takes the glass of milk. "Does this mean you would rather I not drink tonight Bossy m'girl?' he asks of Phailin, grin wide and playful.
Aileana walks with her husband and son, her joy seeming to increase with each step, "Wonderful. He'll hate going back to Gateway after all of the time here, I imagine." She reaches for Phineas's hand, the other used to raise a wave towards Asha, "Good evening, Your Grace. Is this your first time to Green Fields?"
Card approaches Phaeton and Bella once he gets some drink in him and offers his hand first to Bella. "Congratulations now, your Excellency. And my friend...congratulations, you did it. It was a lovely ceremony. Necklaces hmm? I would not have guessed that tradition."
"Mmmm. Need him for a little longer still," Phineas says quietly to his wife, almost passing. "But we can talk about that later."
Phailin looks at Murdock as she hands the glass over, "I figured you like milk better than ale. Though I don't understand how anyone cannot love ale. Its such a staple for me, after all."
"Nice to see you, too, Phin," Asha nods to Phineas, though there's a wry cast to her smile, and a curious tilt to her chin. "And yes," she adds to Aileana, reaching up to rub a hand sheepishly at the back of her neck. "Shouldn't've taken me so long, but...Well. There it is, I suppose. I'm here now."
Eira watches Card quietly as he approaches Bella and Phaeton, but then just goes and places the tankard to her lips once more and takes a long sip to nearly finish it.
Aileana gives a surprised look to her husband though only nods, "Sure, later then." She immediately smiles to Asha then, "Well, welcome! I haven't been to Guardians yet, so no harm, yes? Are you enjoying it so far? You should travel to Burgundy Terrace and visit a few wineries."
Bella smiles warmly as Card greets her. "Thank you, Card," she says, in a sincere tone. She takes another drink of her ale, and then one of her little nieces comes up, wrapping her arms around Bella's legs. "Aunt Annie! Aunt Annie! You gotta throw the circlet, so I can catch it!" the girl, looking about 4 years old, says.
Mena points herself in the direction of the food. There is nothing that compares to a Green Fields feast! And she is going to indulge in it while she is here.
Murdock takes a swig of milk and then leans over to sniff at Phailin's ale mug. "Oh i like it just fine but it makes it hard to ignore the fish."
Phailin offers up her mug to Murdock, "You can share mine than." She ignores that fish comment as she waits to see if Murdock will now sip from her mug.
After watching Bella and Card for a moment more, Eira silently drains the rest of her tankard and sets it aside. Remaining rather quiet, Eira's already starting to look a bit pink in the face.
Murdock gestures to the air above. "There are alot of flying fish around here. Nobody else is looking at them so I am fairly sure that they are not really there but then again nobody was looking at the turtle that was eating the chair in the tower and it turned out that was real." he gives a 'what can you do' shrug, then steals a sip of ale from Phailin. Milk and ale...its whats for breakfast.
Phaeton grins at Card and nods, shaking his hand firmly, "Thank you! It went quite well I thought, and we have five days until the currents shift! Plenty of time for a party." He grins at the man, then laughs as the niece suggests, "Oh, she's right. Better throw the thing, lass!" The Baron smiles and claps Card on the shoulder, before turning and filling a tankard to offer, "And partying is what Fielders do the best."
"It's a...interesting place," Asha answers Aileana as diplomatically as she can, looking a bit sheepish. "Definitely different. But nice people. Nice...place."
If that doesn't hurt Murdock's stomach who knows what will! Lin attempts to follow what Murdock is talking about. When the turtle is mentioned she says, "Is this the thing you found with Princess Anna?"
Phineas offers his elbow to Aileana. "It's likely lacking the martial air of your own isle, but it's the only place you can go barefoot in January," he comments to Asha. he glances about and beckons for a tankard. "We need to do a toast for the couple."
Murdock blinks at Phailin, "No no. I don't think that there are magical, demonic artifact turtles. The turtle was a pet one of your sisters had. About the same time as the goat that was in the family room...and those humpy bunnies."
Bella giggles at her little niece. "oh yes! I have to toss the circlet!" she says. She grins at Eira. "You have to participate in this, darling. Come with me." She makes her way up to where the band is playing, and motions for them to stop. Once the music stops, she looks over the crowd, and says, "Can we have all the unmarried ladies come up to the front, please?"
Aileana nods to Asha, her brows wrinkling a bit at her words though, "Well, I do hope you enjoy it." She takes Finn's arm, her gaze turned behind her briefly to find her son and see what he's getting into.
Card takes the tankard from Phaeton and grins. "Indeed, and so many of your family to pester. In fact I think I will follow your sister there to the food, before too many hands get all in it." He /is/ a picky one with the food! The thief parts from Phaeton and Bella and comes up behind Mena and her guards. "Its great to see you here, Your HIghness."
"Oh that!" Lin answers back to Murdock. Than she hears Phineas and gets a server's attention to get another mug of ale. One cannot have enough of that stuff! Looking to see if the toast will be made soon.
"It's definitely warm," Asha laughs, though she sobers quickly as soon as she says it. "Well. I'm just getting used to it," she assures Aileana. "It's very nice. Very comfortable. Which means it's not at all what I'm used to," she explains a bit further. "But nice."
Eira is starting to not be the steadiest on her feet, but she does follow Bella over to where the band is playing. She watches the newlywed woman with a grin and clasps her hands behind her back, waiting for all the other unmarried women to gather. Pinker and pinker does her face become as the tankard of ale quickly has an effect on her.
Murdock claims Phailin's old mug and leans back on the tree, sipping milk from the left hand and Ale from the right. Two fisted drinking...guardian style.
Mena gives Card a welcoming smile. "And it is great to see you as well, Master Card. Are you going to dance with me?"
Lin will just have to hope that Murdock has a iron stomach and doesn't plan to upchuck what he's drinking anytime soon. Looking amused when she sees all the unmarried ladies circle around Bella and Eira.
There are several young girls that come up to the front of the dance area, ranging in age from what looks like 4 years old to about 19 years old. Mostly they are Bella's nieces, and some of the women from the castle and village. Bella grins as she sees the crowd. "Are you ready?" she shouts, as she takes the circlet of flowers off her head. Turning around so her back faces the crowd she says, "One... two... three..." and then throws it behind her head!
Eira isn't the tallest of the collection, but she does make quite an effort to catch it, stretching up her hands and jumping up into the air for it with the rest. There is much laughter and smiling going on amongst the women, though one or two may be a bit too competitive for that.
Card bows rather politely and smiles to the Empress. "Absolutely, though I hope you realize that I have not had the lessons you have had."
Card extends his hand and offers it to Mena so that he can lead her off in a dance.
Phineas laughs and cannot refrain from saying, "Yes, I can see how nice and comfortable are rather the antithesis of you, Duchess."
The circlet of flowers flies over Bella's head, twirling in the air as it makes it's way to the crowd of girls, their arms all stretched upwards. Screeches and squeals are heard as the circlet of flowers gets close, and then .... many grabbing hands later, one person finally gets hold of it! Who is it?!?
Mena gives Card a grin and wink. "It doesn't matter. As long as you are enjoying yourself... that's all that counts. As soon as they start the music again, you'll see." She does take the offered hand and waits for the flower throwing to be done. "Is this your first time on the Fields?"
A glance is given toward the flower-throwing as Phineas finally gets a tankard handed to him. He takes a deep drink. "Wait until she's done and back with Phae, then do the toast," he says to nobody in particular.
Much to Eira's surprise, it's she that ends up with the circlet of flowers. She blinks, eyes rather wide with surprise, and then she bursts in to a wonderfully pleased grin. "Bella!" she calls excitedly. "I caught it! That means I'm next, doesn't it?"
Asha smirks over at Phineas. "You know what I mean. I'm used to cold, hard mountains, and vast arid plains, and endless mucky swamps, and prickly people trained to use sharp objects. I'm not sure how to deal with all this...friendliness." She winks, then slips off to another part of the crowd, apparently more at ease than she professes herself to be.
Bella grins as she turns around and sees who caught the circlet. "Yes indeed, Eira. About time, too, I'd say," she says, smiling softly, and coming over to hug her friend.
Eira's blushing bright pink! Or could that be from all the ale she drank earlier that her face is so pink. Softly she giggles as she hugs her friend back. "Yes, yes, hopefully soon... oh how wonderful, so wonderful!" Happy little one this girl is indeed.
Murdock finshes the ale and the milk both and then wanders over to rejoin his wife. "So....dance, eat....be friendly. What shall we do?'
Phailin was distracted in seeing the unmarried girls try their luck in getting the circlet and says in a loud voice towards Eira, "Congratulations!" And than she sees and hears Murdock, "What are you in the mood for? I thought there was a talk of toast?" Shrugging some, "Though you can't really miss this feast! We Fielders do know how to eat, after all."
Aileana applauds Eira's catch, staying close to her husband and an eye on her son, "You going to dance after that toast?"
Phineas draws a deep breath and gives a bellowing shout of, "HEY! Can I have everyone's attention here for a few minutes? And everyone better grab a tankard or a glass!"
Card nods once. "Yes it is, and thankfully, Baroness Phoebe was kind enough to cast a spell on me to keep me from being seasick, since I surely would have been, otherwise." He notices Eira catches the circlet. "Is there anything for the men to catch? I'm sorry, not familiar with Fielder weddings. I had no idea about the necklace exchange." When Phin starts yelling, he turns his attention that direction and grins, lifting the tankard Phaet gave him.
Murdock claims another ale...then drapes an arm over Phailin's shoulders and looks to Phin. "Food sounds good" he comments to his lady. "I am very fond of fod."
Aileana grabs a tankard and passes one to her son, certain he won't drink more than a sip or two. She then takes a second for herself.
Eira places the circlet on her head and heads over with a grin to find a tankard so that she is ready to join in with the toast.
Phailin keeps ahold of her tankard as she waits for Phineas to give the toast. She does smile at Murdock and looks comfortable next to him, his arm draped about her shoulder, "Yes, food is good."
Mena grabs a drink from a passing tray as Phineas calls for attention. "No, the men don't catch anything. And this is the only isle that exchanges the necklets during a wedding ceremony. I didn't realize how different it was until moving to Gateway, actually."
"As the twin brother of the groom, I get the pleasure of callin' for this toast of his wedding, so here you go." Phineas flashes a grin at everyone in the tent. "So let me tell you, it's a real joy to see Phaeton finally finding a woman of such good stature and good heart as he has. And one from a family that's actually bigger than ours!" He laughs and gestures with his tankard toward the brothers of Annabella. "Bella, you just be certain you keep that man on the straight and narrow, because I've seen the wild man he can do when he's a-partying. A firm hand, but a gentle touch, as only a woman can give. As for you, Phae, I don't know if you're aware of the treasure you've gotten, but you're lucky to have a woman like her, and that you could convince her to marry someone with as crazy a family as you have, so you treat her well. She's a strong woman, but she needs a man to shelter her and be her hero at times, and I know that you're going to have no problem being that. So to the two of you I say, bless that field well, get knocked up quickly, and drink a lot of ale tonight, Bella, because when you get pregnant you don't get anymore. To the newlyweds!"
Bella makes her way back to where Phaeton is standing, and looks over to Phineas as he begins the toast. She smiles warmly and blushes a little at parts of Phineas' speech, and laughs at the last comment. She raises her tankard, and grins at Phaeton, before taking a drink of her ale.
Aileana cheers and lifts her tankard in agreement, "Here here!" She then takes a small drink.
Phailin lifts her tankard and smiles giving her own 'here, here' before she takes a sip.
Mena presses her lips together, looking highly amused at the toast. A chuckle even escapes as she lifts her tankard as well. "Hear, hear!"
Murdock grins and lifts his mug as well.
Duke Phaedrus hoists his tankard, nodding and letitng his lips quirk up a bit at the timbre of the toast.
Eira needs to lean against the table, becomming more and more affected by all the ale she drank earlier. Absolutely no tolerance does this girl have. But as a dutiful friend, she awaits the toast and then afterwards cheers a "Here here!" and then takes a decent pull from the tankard.
Card tips back the tankard and drinks to their good health and babies and most everything Phin said. Then he coughs a few times. More drinking for him today than normal. "So...I guess the good news is...its so cold the bugs won't be biting when they are out in the field, but...good luck getting everything to work in this weather." He chuckles.
Murdock says, "At least he is not having to leap burning brush piles."
Phineas takes a deep drink from his ale and looks at the pair, these words quieter, as if private. "Let Love guide you and and keep you both, love for each other, for family, for the land we love." He grins at them and steps back in the crowd.
Phaeton laughs and raises his toast and grins at Bella, "We'll get to work on the heirs soon, worry not!" He takes a long drink fro his tankard and nods at Finn, "Assuredly. And thanks, Finn.. I'm glad you were here!" Then he grins and puts the tankard down and gives Finn another hug.
Phailin looks back at Murdock, "That happens during our harvest festival. And Phaeton has done plenty of those!"
Aileana reaches out to squeeze Finn's arm, "I love you." She smiles and then looks to the musicians, "Are we dancing this evening?"
"Why yes," Phineas agrees with his wife. "Yes we are. One minute just." And he drinks the rest of the tankard in a very well-practiced guzzle.
Aileana hands her ale off to a servant and grins, "Excellent. I hope you can keep up with clod hopping. It's been some time."
Bella gets pulled away from Phaeton by some of her nieces, dragging her over to a table where her parents and some of her brothers and their wives are sitting. She gives everyone warm hugs, and takes a seat, eating and drinking with them, one of the younger nieces climbing on her lap. Doesn't she look motherly?
Murdock nods to Phailin. "I know. I remember that." He considers his ale mug. "I think that was the last time i drank."
Phailin looks at Murdock and the mug that holds ale, "Oh yeah? Is there a reason why your drinking tonight? Well besides the obvious of celebration?"
Card grins over at Phineas and then nods to the man. "Good to see you, by the way. Looking very well. They have been feeding you I see."
"I guarantee I can keep up with whatever you can dish out, my love," Phineas says dryly. He pauses and glances over at Card with the greeting, his own features turning in a wry expression. "I always eat well on the Fields."
Aileana blushes just a hint at the words from her husband, probably reading more to his second statement than she should, "I'm sure you'll eat plenty tonight too. The food smells fantastic." Or something like that.
Duke Phaedrus observes quietly from his vantage point, nursing his ale, rather than devouring it.
Phaeton snickers wickedly and grins at the pair, shaking his head, "Finn, you're terrible." He takes another swig of ale and leans comfortably against a table, eyes twinkling softly, "The Fields are a good place to be."
Card pulls out a smoke from his sleeve and then grins. "I think I'll step out for some air." Which is ironic since he's going to smoke. And he gets his tankard refilled on the way out of the tent as well. He has a faintly amused and crooked grin on his face as he departs.
Murdock looks down at the ale and then gives a shrug. "Don't know? Want to try and fit in a little. Endevor to adapt to a more acceptable norm?"
Phailin ahs at Murdock and tells him quietly. Well as much as one can in a crowd, "you really don't have to do that. you should just be you and be comfortable in that."
Phineas looks after Card's departure and sets his empty tankard aside. "They are, aren't they?" he asks Phaeton with a chuckle. "It's always coming home.
Duke Phaedrus carefully drifts towards the knot of Foresters, tankard still in hand. He nods to his elder siblings(and the sole younger) before greeting Phaeton. "Congratulations."
Aileana grins to her husband, squeezing his hand, "Always. Thank you for taking Sher. He needs plenty of time romping through the fields and getting himself dirty."
Murdock gives Pahilin a quirky grin..."Well...it does taste good. I better eat though....but not any fish. They would be stareing."
Phailin nods at Murdock. She does give a nod towards Phaedrus in seeing him pass thru. Her attention back to Murdock, "Yes, a full belly will right things, after all."
Mena gives a smile to Phaedrus, lifting her tankard toward him in greeting.
Murdock says, "May as well get me in range of your brother so he can hit me and be done with it too."
Phailin shakes her head at Murdock as she makes a sidetrip to the banquet table and fills up her plate. She tells Murdock, "your a glutton for punishment. You know this, yes?" Though she'll start heading towards Phineas. Might as well as get that over with.
Murdock grins and drains the last of the second ale as he trails after her. "Not really. But beats having it loom all weekend."
Phineas reciprocates with a squeeze to Aileana's hand. "You're welcome. I think that it's been good for him. I need to keep him for a while longer. We've not had enough time yet, and there are things I want to get him used to early." He grins easily to her, before he notes the arrival of Phailin and Murdock. That grin fades slowly to leave something distant in its wake.
Aileana's gaze turns on Murdock and Phailin as they arrive, her own smile dissipating now. She does lean to whisper to her husband.
Mena keeps a bit of a distance as she watches Murdock and Phailin approach Phineas and Aileana. This should prove interesting.
Phailin did what she said she do. She does lead Murdock towards Phineas and Ana. But she has no words. She'll let Murdock do the talking. Isn't that so nice of her?
When his sister and her once-reported-dead husband draw near, Phineas gazes at the pair of them. "Lin," he says in welcome acknowledgment to his sister. He slants Aileana a look and gives her a marginal nod, a quiet word.
Aileana quiets again, her attention on the pair though it's clear her gaze is searching Lin's with curiosity.
"Good eve, Phineas." Lin says in return and looks to Ana, "Ana." A quick smile given for Sheridan to. And than she begins to eat off her plate. Avoiding eye contact, for the moment. She's either gathering her thoughts or at a loss of words.
Murdock folds his hands behind his back and settles into a easy militaty stance once he is in range of Phineas. "Good evening Sir. It has been reported that you wished to kill me. So now that the wedding is over I though you might like the chance to get that out of the way so you can have a pleasent rest of the party."
Phaedrus looks around at the party, the groom, the bride, his family, and then Murdock. His lips draw into a purse.
Mena purses her lips for a moment, then looks over her shoulder to the knights with her. "I think that I would like to go for a walk." You know, so they aren't in range anymore upon hearing 'kill' and 'Phineas' anywhere near the same sentence.
A quiet laugh comes from Phineas at the words of Murdock, but it's not a laugh that holds real humor or warmth. "Has it now? I assure you, Hunter, that any deaths which may take place will not take place at my twin's reception. I don't know how they do things on Guardian, but we're not about to interrupt this festive occasion with that sort of dirty laundry."
Phaeton raises an eyebrow and looks at Murdock, "Not just Finn, Murdock. Unless you have an amazingly good explanation." He looks at Finn and twists his lips, "That depends, really, on how badly Lin was insulted." He does look at Drus and grins softly, "Thanks, Drus. Member of the married club now, seems." Then his attention is back on the once-brother-in-law.
Phailin winces when she hears Murdock's word and Mena's reaction. She sighs from her eating. Emotional eating. Mmmmhhhmm. Taking in a breath she takes a break to give a slanted glance to Murdock and than to Phineas. She just looks caught and unsure. So she retreats in silence. That has always been a comfort zone to her, after all.
And Mena does lead the two knights right out of the tent. Though, the knights look quite bristled and ready to jump into any action. Which is exactly why Mena is making sure they aren't anywhere near the rest of the family if violence breaks out.
