RP:The Catalian Stallion

Summary: Lanara throws Tiber a surprise birthday party and it means a lot to the lycan as he’s never known his actual day of birth. In attendance are Krice, Talyara, Alvina, Loravelle, Leoxander, Shishi, and Leralynn. A certain fox hurls a brick through the window and a broken music box confuses the guests. Everyone has a fabulous time eating, drinking, and bashing the pinata, and Tiber receives some incredible presents. One of his favorite gifts is a guitar with a sunburst pattern! It’s a birthday that the man will never forget!

Part of the Waxing Crescent, Wayward Course Arc

Setting :: The Dancing Destrier, which is usually bustling with business at this hour, seems to be closed to the general public. Anyone that enters the building will be asked to leave by a handsome lycan, Greyson, the Beta of the Amber Lunation. Those that wish to disobey the male will be removed from the premises by force! The fine establishment had been rented out for a private party and only those on the invite list are permitted entrance. The spacious dining area is decorated with streamers and balloons, all of which are in tones of blue with just a hint of glitter for some additional flair. The long dining table, that seats twelve, is draped in a dark gray tablecloth with matching napkins and seat covers. Three magnificent floral displays of blue roses, white carnations, and sprigs of baby’s breath are evenly spread across the center of the table. A small scroll with the menu rests atop each plate setting and is personally signed by the finest chef in the realm, Gordyn Whamsey as he was hired to cook for the guests. The first course is salmon on a bed of leafy greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. That’s followed by filet mignon, roasted potatoes with herbs, and harvest vegetables. The final course is a fruit cup accompanied with a slice of birthday cake. Two servers have been hired to care for the guests' needs, and there’s a man stationed behind the bar to serve everyone’s alcoholic needs. The dance floor has been freshly mopped and waxed for this occasion and a few bards from the university play popular tunes and are eager to fulfill any song requests. A bright pink pinata of some strange beast hangs from the ceiling, looking both piglike and wolflike in appearance. A rainbow blindfold and a wooden bat rest on a chair in the corner. To the far right of the room there’s a square table with an exquisitely crafted three-tier birthday cake. Each tier is a different flavor; chocolate cake with raspberry filling, spiced apple cake with caramel filling, and red velvet cake with cream cheese filling. The exterior is done in an ice blue fondant and is decorated with edible pearls with a howling wolf as the cake topper. A small guest book sits on the table along with an inkwell and quill, so those that attend can give Tiberius Lowell their best wishes.

Lanara has been busy since early this morning making sure that every last detail has been completed to perfection. It’s her husband's -first- birthday party as he grew up in an orphanage and never had one, let alone know what day his actual birthday falls on! The past few weeks have been very hard on the Lowell’s and she’s hopeful that they can put their past behind them, even if only for one day. Greyson guards the front door so she doesn’t think anyone will be in any real danger and only their closest friends and family have scored an invitation. Lana is clad in a white tank-style blouse that ends two inches above her pierced navel, a white ankle-length pencil skirt, and a pair of gold platform sandals that add three inches to her height. A gold belly chain is wrapped around her slender waist with little medallions that jingle when she moves and matching gold medallions dangle from her earlobes. She wears minimal makeup on her face and her long hair is pin straight and teases the hem of her blouse. She did go through the trouble of glamouring her serious wounds that she sustained a few weeks prior, though the pain still remains and the effect will wear off by the time they head home. Lana doesn’t want anyone focusing on her burns and scars as this is Tiber’s special day! Plus, it’s been a long time since she’s felt ‘pretty’ and she hopes that her husband will appreciate her efforts. As each guest arrives they are greeted with a hug, shown where they can place their presents until after dessert is served, and told to stand behind a bamboo partition until Tiber arrives. “When he gets here we all will scream ‘Surprise’ and jump out!”

Alvina arrives early, like most people do to a surprise party, to help with anything the lovely hostess needs last minute assistance with. She arrives alone but balancing two different trays of sweets. Tiber's sweet tooth is a bonding thing, they are bonding about it. It's happening. In the madness is a gift wrapped in painstakingly painted paper. No matter how old you are, everyone deserves birthday gifts! It's snuck to Lana with the very specific instruction of NOT letting him open it at the party. Alvina stays out of the way mostly, people watching the gathering and enjoying the luxurious sensation of existence. She'll politely greet everyone she knows, listening to updates on their lives with intense interest. Her red curls are loosely hanging down her back, bangs pinned at the temple with opal clips. She's wearing a casual set of dark shorts and a deep green summer top. The Dancing Destrier is all new to her but she's enjoying it's overall vibe and a couple glasses of wine while she's at it.

Talyara arrived wearing a floral romper, perfect for the warmer weather. It wasn’t often the elf got to wear something that wasn’t heavy and warm, so she certainly jumped at the chance to wear something that showed a little skin. The fabric of the romper was made from flowy chiffon dyed a pale mint green and painted with large, bold light pink and peach bloomed roses. The top of the romper was off the shoulder and the sleeves were snug up to the elbow before flaring out to her wrist. The waist of the romper was cinched, accentuating the curve of Taly’s body before falling in a faux, ruffled skirt in which the hem stopped at her mid thigh. A pair of nude colored wedge sandals adorned her feet, giving the normally petite witch a few extra inches in height. Finally, her hair had been styled in such a way that her normally tight curls were more relaxed and secured in a half pony with a few white roses and baby’s breath weaved around the knot which held her hair back off her face. As usual, Taly’s makeup was so minimal it was nearly non-existent; the only hint would be the shine on her lips and the extra volume to her eyelashes. The only jewelry she wore was the purple stone ring on her right hand, a simple pair of crystal studs in the lobe of each tapered ear, and lastly a thin copper bangle dangled from her left wrist. In the hand that was not nestled in the crook of Krice’s elbow, Talyara held a brown gift bag with plain tissue paper sticking out of it. She’d greet her sister with a hug, of course, compliment her on her beauty, and admire all the decorations.

Krice arrived to Xalious with Talyara via Gylworliath, his wyvern, and then walked a few blocks to get to their destination. He would hold the door open and invite Talyara ahead of him, meeting up with Greyson the doorkeep. The alpha male, as described by Lita once upon a Frostmaw Tavern, was not particularly partial to the arrogance of other men, but Greyson seemed pleasant enough so no hackles were raised. Krice barely dressed up for formal events, so this party of friends saw him wearing his usual attire--black button-down with sleeves rolled to elbows and collar open, a thin black cord at times visible over his clavicle, comfortable slacks, polished boots, and his katana strapped to his hip, all of it black except the weapon which was white. With Talyara hooked on his left elbow, the thin copper bangle visible around that wrist was moreso, matching hers. He greeted those present with a nod, Alvina a slightly more friendly one, and avoided Lanara's hug like always - this one more pointedly so. He was still polite, though, just mega-introverted. Parties were not his thing. He knew he'd commiserate about it with Tiber without openly commiserating. While Talyara brought a parcel, he carried in his right a hand a bottle of the finest wine from a region not near Xalious, topped with a little bow around the tapered neck. Once gifts were given, he'd hide with the group behind the bamboo partition, even though he knew it to be likely fruitless; Tiber was a wolf, who had a good nose. This surprise would have to be sprung on him quickly.

Loravelle isn't really sure how to wrap a guitar so it looks less like a guitar without shoving it into a large box that she didn't have on hand, but at least the foiled paper the instrument is wrapped in is nice, even if it gives away just what the gift she and Leo have for Tiber is. It's blue paper, and Lora carefully tied a matching blue bow around the guitar's neck to match. A smaller gift is tucked under her arm as well, a box of spare picks and guitar strings concealed in the same blue wrapping. She may be walking ahead of Leo, but that's mostly so she can hurry into the building and find a seat to settle down in because her feet are sore from all the walking, given she left her new, unnamed mare back home in Rynvale. Her mouth goes slack when she and her fiance enter the Dancing Destrier, She definitely chose the right wrapping paper color, but that dull paper pales in comparison to all the décor. It's dazzling, and Lora casts an anxious glance at Leo. Big breath. These are people that she knew, so it'd be alright. Fun, even! She decided to put on the pretty green dress and silver heels Lanara gifted her for the occasion and threw her lengthy hair into a braid. Initially she's worried about wearing it given its shorter length (just above her knees) and it leaves her shoulders bare, but she's worn it once before and survived. It'll be fine today too. Lora hugs Lanara immediately when the witch greets her and Leo, and she waves at both Alvina, Talyara, and Krice. She can't help beaming a little. This is what having friends is like. It's...really nice, and she finds herself squeezing Leo's hand if it's within her grasp. That smile falters just a little a moment later, while her free hand holds onto the guitar's neck and she searches the room. “Where do we put gifts...?” She almost wants to duck behind Leo, not to hide, but to hide the instrument and little box from view.

Leoxander would have loved to see Mr. Handsome Bouncer try to kick the rogue out, but alas, somehow he made the list. He hadn’t really dressed up. Sorry, Lanara. At least his hygiene was managed for the affair, although his hair had dried in that usual unkempt mess of blonde. Dark, worn jeans, usual boots, but he was wearing a gray and black flannel shirt with the sleeves rolled to forearms similar to Krice’s shirt, rather than the usual hole ridden tee or white tank, likely with some encouragement or coaxing from the bookkeeper. Just as he’d been coaxed to attend, though stepping into that space with glitter and balloons, fancy settings and hanging paper… animals? It was stepping into another world, for Leo, and his brow was already knotted uneasily. He’d actually celebrated his first nameday that year, too, as it happened to fall on the days of their Enchantment getaway, but the witch had gone all out in festivities. That obvious gift in hand, he let Loravelle handle the hugging business while he inspected the scene and let his gaze drift among the guests to see who was present, attention reeled back toward Lora and Lana after his jaw raised in a silent and subtle greeting to Krice and Talyara specifically; they had done him a great service and thankfully, his fiance seemed fully recovered from that life threatening sickness. Once directed where to set down the blue wrapped instrument, he followed through to do so, taking the box from his partner so she could do that social thing. Even if it still intimidated her, she was far better at it than the pirate in this setting.

Shishi is hiding away in the back of the kitchen as his inclusion on the guest list is meant to be an additional surprise for the guest of honor. The Titan of Winter is just trying his best to stay out of Whamsey and his team’s way as they churn out the catering menu. Blue hasn’t been in many working kitchens before, but none were as loud and, seemingly by design, chaotic as this one is now. Someone has been gracious enough to bring him a stool and he sits there, watching the mayhem through his one open eye while Leralynn, her left arm still in a sling following her Vailkrin Blood Bowl injury, peeks out of the kitchen door every once in a while, checking for The Blue Demon’s cue. Chill out, Orange. He’ll come out after the salad…

Tiber (1 of 2):: Tiber was still uptight from all the stress of the past couple weeks, but at least Franz’ two men in the Dark Forest were out of the picture. If they were the ones to hold the explosives, perhaps The Amber Lunation did the right thing by killing the two men in charge of the Queen’s comatose state and Lanara’s arm. On the brighter side, Tiber felt safe enough to move back into the Lowell Estate with the Kelvarian–leaving Corrine and Nick to their own personal home again, but that did not mean everything was peaceful again, as Lunalesca was still hidden away in their four walls. No, Tiberius was still waiting, watching. Was there going to be a next move, or had Franz given up? Either way, Tiber is going out of his morning routine of drinking coffee and reading the newspaper which was still claiming the Queen of the Fae’s disappearance when a knock on the door of the large home. Instantly, the Catalian’s heart pounds with adrenaline, and he notices a note slid underneath the door. He unfolds the parchment to find… Greyson’s handwriting. The Beta’s scent is on this note, or is it faulty? Should Tiber play into the risk again? ‘Tiber, This is not a faulty note, but I do need to talk to you without the Pack about some concerns. Meet me in Xalious at the Dancing Destrier, Franz will not expect it, and we can grab a bite. See you this evening, Greyson.’ Tiber folds the note hesitantly, as it was strange Greyson would take him so opposite a direction. Was this Franz? Was this Greyson? Tiberius Lowell was paranoid.

Tiber (2 of 2):: The time came, and Lanara had still not come home, so he leaves a note behind saying that he is meeting Greyson. Was this a deja vu? Was this Tiber’s turn again to get jumped? The blonde makes sure that he is well equipped with daggers underneath his garb and tucked in his brown belt as well. Hands fiddle with the buttons on his collared shirt before pulling a brown crew-neck sweater over the top. He wears casual, slim black slacks and brown loafers. Once he is dressed, he breathes out long and slow before moving to travel to Xalious for the evening to meet his friend–if it -was- Greyson. Please be Greyson. Time ticks, and eventually Tiber manages to make it to the destination of Greyson’s choice, and thankfully, the dark haired, blue eyed man is standing there at the front entrance. A wave of relief crashes over the blonde as he sees the Beta was telling the truth. “Thank the Gods, dude,” he greets Greyson. “Have you heard from Lanara? Was she at the Pack house before you left? She left before I got up this morning.” Tiber is now headed for the entrance while looking over his shoulder. Then, he turns forward to greet a potential host, but instead, his amber gaze glaze over the party decorations, he ignores the familiar scents–especially the pirate’s as shocking as that is–and finds, instead… a hanging werepig piñata…?

Lanara compliments Alvina on her cute attire, squeezes Taly until her eyes practically pop, and she rolls her eyes when Krice dodges her hug. Dark eyes widen as Loravelle walks into the room wearing a familiar dress and shoes with her long hair in a braid. “Look at you! So pretty! I’m so happy that you could come!” She hugs the woman, so pleased that she’s coming out of her shell a little more each time they meet. “Presents go just over there.” She points to a table in the corner where Tiber won’t spy the guitar. Glancing behind Lora, she sees Leo admiring all of the decorations but she purses her lips when he eyes the hanging pinata, “It’s a were-pig. I think.” She feels the need to introduce everyone but Greyson mouths for them all to get back, so that will have to wait. Little does she know but most of them have met at one time or another. Lana holds up her hand to silence everyone that’s huddled behind the partition and she watches as Greyson briefly chats with Tiberius, and hopes that Shishi knows it’s time to make his grand entrance. The Catalian has been a diehard fan of the Blue Demon for as long as she could remember and he even named their new doberman after the hero! Lana then motions for everyone to jump out and scare the living daylights out of the Catalian. “SURPRISE!!!” She squeals at the probable confusion on Tiber’s face before she runs over to him and pulls him in for a quick kiss on the lips, “Happy Birthday, Babe!” As they’re hugging, she whispers an explanation in his ear, “I planned this a while back and I know that things are crazy in our lives right now, but I think we deserve a few hours with our friends.” She smiles, “Plus. You cannot remember your birthday and have never had a party, so it’s fitting that you now have one.” Lana gives him a squeeze as she moves out of the way so that everyone else can bombard him with wishes of happiness and she motions to the bartender and the servers to get the food and drinks prepared.

Alvina jumps out from behind the partition and yells "Surprise! Happy Birthday, Tiber!"

Krice, it could be theorized, did not remotely understand parties. Stoic as he was, hard-working warrior longer as he was, he didn’t have much experience with social gatherings that weren’t mission briefings or debriefings. He was still learning the ways of the partygoer, helped along by Talyara - and her very social sister. The Silver Enigma came to these events for his green-eyed companion, -with- his green-eyed companion, and pretty much never any other time. Naturally reserved, he ‘dodged’ contact from anyone but Talyara, though would offer a handshake to those who requested it - depending on their demeanor. Always a warrior, always wary. Standing behind the partition, Krice observed those around him for cues on what the hell they were even doing because, parties alone were new to him, let alone surprise parties. He was behind the ball when most of the others jumped out to surprise Tiber on arrival, but he lifted one hand to gesture as they did and called, “Surpriiiise,” in his best party voice - which was only a hint more expressive than his usual tone. It wasn’t his fault; he didn’t understand this stuff. Seeing Talyara happy warmed his demeanor, however, even inspired a smile a few times, so he followed her lead for the social stuff and took cues from Tiber - who he knew to be almost as stoic as he was. If Tiber was relaxed, Krice could be a bit more so. If Tiber hated it, Krice would be guarded. And anything in-between.

Talyara greeted all the other guests (after an extra long embrace for her sister!) as they arrived, Alvina first and then, loitering near the bar so as to order a glass of wine, Loravelle and Leo as they entered the Destrier not long after her and the warrior. Their gift seemed meager in comparison to the elaborate one the bookkeeper and the pirate brought, but she hoped her brother-in-law liked it all the same. Glass of wine in hand, the couple mulled around waiting for the guest of honor to arrive. The witch was looking up toward the ceiling at the peculiar pig-like creature hanging from the beams, brow furrowed as she tried to place -exactly- what it was supposed to be, when Lana came running towards the crowd, flapping her arms and alerting them that Tiber arrived. Attention back towards the partition, Talyara cried out a loud “surprise!” to join the cacophony of celebratory noise from the partygoers as the werewolf looked properly stunned. The little witch glanced at her warrior companion out of the corner of her eye and a more natural smile curved on her lips when he joined the chorus of yelling. Taly reached out and gave his elbow an affectionate squeeze, proud of him for doing the “party-goer thing” despite his naturally reserved demeanor.

Loravelle hurries with Leo to hide both guitar and the box they brought along where Lanara points out, and on the way she feels her face turn beet red at the witch's compliments. Just a teensy bit of a delayed reaction, but the praise has her grinning. After setting the gifts she and the wolf brought along, she looks a little lost. Birthday parties were something she understood well enough, given the sheer amount of sisters and nieces and nephews she had to celebrate birthdays for, but never a surprise party. It's simple enough to understand, so when Lanara shoos everyone into hiding she grabs Leo's arm and pulls him toward the partition and just waits. She's excited of course, but nervous about shouting. Doesn't stop her from joining in with the others as Tiber arrives, though. “Surprise!!!” She even whistles too. This is so exciting!

Leoxander had leaned back against the wall, hands in pockets, not a word spoken by the time Lanara motioned for quiet. He wasn’t making a huge effort to hide, either, but somehow he managed to be less noticeable since there was so much color throughout that room to catch the eye. Begrudgingly, he was soon pulled closer to the crowd in that hiding spot and complied for Lora’s lead and Lanara’s sake - it seemed she’d gone through a lot of trouble for her husband. But it was near dangerous how the two lycans and the silver enigma all seemed to have the same regard of a birthday party with that uncertainty on what to do. Leo didn’t join in for the yell of surprise but squinted his eyes against it as if that might affect his sensitive hearing, somehow. Yep. He needed a drink. Something far more potent than the wine in the witch’s possession. But he kept his place for now while watching Tiber react to the surprise and attention with a neutral expression, noticing some of those bruises a bit cleared up compared to his unexpected visit to Rynvale.

Tiber jumps as all the people yell ‘surprise’ at him–even the flat-like Silver Enigma who is showing the amount of effort the Catalian would in return (almost like a deflated balloon, but the men both normally ‘tried’, okay?). His hand sort of lifts to guard himself as he bends back a little at the enthusiasm forced his way. His expression looks dumbfounded, and if this world had cameras, it would be a sight to see. Confusion. Straight, pure, sweet confusion. The Kelvarian comes out of the crowd in her giddiness, and it had been a while to see the woman so chipper and beaming with light after what they had been going through. He grips a hand around her like he was on auto-pilot, and it is clear that he is calculating in his head what was going on–even if she is briefly kissing him. ‘Happy Birthday, Babe!’ “Uh, wow, uh…” he looked around at all the faces, and in an instant, there was a warm feeling that was spreading through his chest to that stone heart of his. His face even flooded a deep crimson which was abnormal. Tiber was thrown off-guard, that was for sure. A birthday for him. Something that he never thought he would miss, as he did not really… remember, as his memory was swiped away a long time ago. His previous life of being an experiment and stripped of humanity. He did not really understand birthday etiquette, but he was about to find out. “You did all of this for… me?” He is not even sure how old he is?! Still, he was looking around as if this was some sort of sick illusion, and once he realizes that this is, in fact, Lanara–his wife–he relaxes. Her sweet face happily gazing at his baffled face. His sister-and-law is ecstatic. Krice is trying to be which says more than words. He even sees the pirate in the crowd even if he did not even mutter a word with his little shy peep of a fiance?! Al, the red-headed, sweet-toothaholic was in the crowd, too! Perhaps the people in his world were a blip in his on-going life, which meant he did not recognize who he actually had in his corner, even if he was a very passive man. What a little moment for the hard-headed lycan.

Shishi waits a bit after the initial shouts of surprise die down and Tiber is adequately primed for the second wave that is The Titan of Winter. When the time comes, Blue stands and adjusts his tie at his neck with both hands before snatching up a gift basket from a countertop and heads towards the kitchen exit at Leralynn’s prompting. He deftly sidesteps a sous chef running with filets to be plated and lets out a light, unnecessary sigh as his left eye flickers through its accursed color change from oceanic blue to a glowing crimson. The same effect that heralds a Blue Demon Titan fight passes through the party venue now as shadows pulse and move unnaturally about the inn. He waits for a beat to let the meaning of this phenomena set in before he pushes through into the tavern area. His one good eye seeks out Lanara, who has arranged for this appearance to happen, and the champion gives the woman a subtle nod as he makes his way over to Tiber, “My biggest fan…” (Untrue. The prince of Larket is most certainly the true holder of that title), and presents the basket of swag to the birthday boy, “Happy birthday.” He’s only slightly awkward as he delivers that one, practiced line and flashes a fanged smile. Inside the basket is a number of Titan of Winter and Blue Demon branded items, most autographed by the five-time Titan, including, but not limited to, some shirts and a beer stein with Mesthak’s Strongest Brew and Shishi iconography all over it. The crown jewels, hidden deep in the basket, are the as of yet unreleased “Heartbreaker Demon” and “Dragon’s Kiss Kanna” ToW action figures…

Loravelle wonders if she's supposed to add 'Happy Birthday' to the cheering and exclamations for Tiber, so she gets very close to yelling that as well. Just as her mouth opens to do so, she's suddenly very aware of how the shadows begin to move unnaturally, and finds herself blindly reaching to clutch at Leo's arm. There are witches hosting and attending the party, so perhaps this was some sort of surprise party trick custom that Lora isn't aware of... But it's frightening. And even more frightening when the Blue Demon comes into view. If Leo will let her (she'll still try even if he doesn't), Lora moves to hide behind him, though her head peeks out a little to see just what's going on. Well, now the girl's scared speechless.

Tiber is wrapped up within all the glam as the balloons and decor set in. The glitter throws him for a whirl, and still, the hanging were-pig pinata sways. He stares at it with a squint until something else catches his view… Shadows pulse, and amber eyes shift to where the kitchen doors linger, as he knew that this was a plot all along! He pulls Lanara back with him to prepare for an attack, but instead a surprise guest pushes out the doors to reveal himself. The Blue Demon. Instantly, he lets go of Lanara and his mouth drops. He does not know how to speak, “Is that the–” his finger lifts at the Titan as he strides across the party. “The Five Time, Back-to-Back-to-Back-to-Back-to-Back, Titan of Winter?” His heart feels uneven and the duelist is approaching the man. An awkward ‘happy birthday’ is delivered, and Tiber cannot react, as he is frozen in time. The basket is handed over, and Tiber’s eyes grow big like a child. “Oh my Gods, no way!” Normally the Catalian knew how to ‘be cool’, okay? Eyes shift to Lanara in awe before looking down at the branded items. Were birthdays supposed to feel this way? “Thanks, dude.” He then looks to Lanara like a teenager before setting the basket on the table to see what was inside. “Kanna and Blue Demon figures?! We have to put these on the mantle, babe!” Tiber is officially twelve. He is not twenty-nine. No way.

Lanara looks misty eyed at Tiber’s reaction because she can sense how much this means to him and it warms her heart. Everyone’s mingling now, either getting drinks or conversing with the birthday boy, but their attention is all taken by the arrival of the one and only five time TOWT champion. The witch is a pretty big fan herself, but since imprinting with Tiber, she’s no longer in danger of fainting each time the vampire makes a public appearance. Lana returns his nod and cannot wipe the smile off of her face as smoke fills the room and Tiber has his moment with his idol. It’s the -perfect- first birthday party! Gordyn Whamsey steps into the room and rings a dinner bell. His no nonsense demeanor is tainted with mild confusion as he sees all the smoke and wonders if something is burning in the kitchen. He just left there and nothing was amiss! Blue eyes look over at Shishi and his basket of memorabilia and he sighs, “This is the dumbest event that I’ve ever catered. Glitter is everywhere, there’s some donkey hybrid thing hanging from the ceiling, and now the man of the hour is going to fight the People’s Champ?! Stupid!” Those that glance his way in confusion are met with, “What the frack are you looking at? Sit your bloody arses down! Dinner is served!” He scowls at the servers that pass by with trays of food as though he thinks they are all blithering idiots. Lanara takes a seat at the table, in the middle of Talyara and Tiber, and she folds her napkin neatly on her lap as the first course is served. A server takes everyone’s drink order and will keep them flowing, even if someone is obviously intoxicated. Lana gave strict orders that gold isn’t a problem and that whatever the guests want they are to receive. She takes a bite of salmon and eyes the favors that Greyson’s handing out to all of the guests, each with a label that reads ‘Happy Birthday, Tiber!’ with today's date. The women receive miniature bottles of apple wine, while the men receive matching bottles though theirs is filled with honeyed whiskey. “I’m so happy that you all could make it!”

Leoxander was on his best behavior. Which really wasn’t saying much. He knew it was likely only his association with the gentle Mouse that he was invited. He and Tiber only had moments few and far between where they weren’t acting like rams in rutting season toward each other. As for Shishi’s arrival, he knew he scented the demon somewhere in that room, and his daughter, too. But he hadn’t really interacted with either since his loss to the teenage witch. And lo and behold, there is the champion, himself, making an appearance for the lowly folk. No real change in the rogue’s expression; he just watched the exchange of hugs and words and as his gaze settled on Loravelle, seeing the abrupt shift in her behavior from excited to fearful, that knot etched back in between his brows. He was about to murmur some concerned question to her, when an abrupt crash screamed through the party atmosphere, the glass of an inn-front window shattering by the force of a newspaper wrapped object the size of a brick thrown through it. At once, his arms grabbed Loravelle and he stooped over her in a split second to shield her from any impending attack, but that was it, and after initial startled reactions Leo lifted his head to look toward the cause. Letters of the newspaper’s print had been individually cut out to read ‘Happy-However-Old-You-Are’ with an icon of a foxtail. Inside that wrapping if the birthday boy or whoever dared to peek was a brick, alright. Of sea salt toffee.

Krice’s expression softened when Talyara squeezed his elbow. He may not know parties, but he knew his companion; he understood completely what she was conveying with the affection and its accompanying smile. Leaning in, he brushed her shoulder with his bicep in a gentle, playful nudge and shrugged the other shoulder in a throw-away gesture to convey that he ‘was trying’. As others swarmed in to personally congratulate Tiber, Krice offered the stunned lycan a nod of understanding, thereafter glancing away from the group to take note of Leoxander’s position - and then Loravelle’s. The diminutive bookkeeper seemed quite happy to join in the festivities despite her shyness, and it was good to see that she had - at least mostly - healed from the last time he saw her. The illusory effect that fell over the party a moment later disturbed the warrior’s heartbeat - for those with sensitive ears -, quickening not from fear, but from apprehension; on the outside, he looked as composed as ever. Once the shadows were revealed to be a party trick conjured by the then-arriving Shishi, his heartbeat relaxed. The window-smashing brick didn’t do wonders for his peace of mind but it looked harmless upon a second-longer inspection (at a distance). Krice wasn’t too familiar with the Titan of Winter, but the pomp surrounding him was less than inviting so Krice remained back to observe the party, though if Talyara moved too far away, he would ease a little closer in case she needed him. The Chef’s rude complaining earned him the warrior’s attention, brief as it was, but weirdly he wasn’t offended or irritated by Whamsey. Rather, the enigma snorted and lifted a hand to casually cover the grin that curved his mouth, that elbow resting on his other arm folded across his abdomen. Casually does it. Once everyone moved to sit, he composed himself anew and pulled out Talyara’s chair for her. He would take the seat beside her - with Lanara next, and then Tiber - but also pull out a chair for Alvina to sit at his other side if she so chose. If she sat adjacent, obviously he wouldn’t be in a position to pull out her chair, but he’d acknowledge her with a small dip of his head and the slightest softening of his expression.

Leoxander said, "Well... now it's a party."

Tiber could care less if the Blue Demon was a vampire or not, as Tiber always loved a good fight. Gordyn Whamsey comes in and starts complaining about the party which has Tiber glancing his direction and Whamsey throws his rudeness at them. He squints before looking at Lana. “You couldn’t have chosen just the simple cooks here?” He settles himself down in a chair, and Tiber is pouring honeyed whiskey in a glass before mumbling, “He’s talking about the T.O.W, ba–” and he stops his complaining as glass shatters and instantly the lycan is up on his feet ready to pounce. Paranoid. Again. He moves to pick up the ‘brick’ that was… toffee? “What the heck?” And there was an icon of a foxtail… the only one he knew with… that was–wait. Was this the fox from the rogue heist? He does not say anything. “Quite the birthday message,” before he sits back down.

Talyara giggled at Krice’s nudging of her shoulder, the witch comforted by the company, the joyous atmosphere, and yes the wine as well. She was about to say something to the warrior when the shadows began to shift and the witch instinctively moved closer to Krice. Alas, it seemed as if Lana got the real life People’s Champ to join the party! She is near enough to hear that he gifted Tiber with action figures but when she caught sight of them her expression fell. Taly is not a fan of dueling and fighting. As a healer, she is the one to attend to the injuries from said fighting. She knew that her brother-in-law was a fan of the Titan of something or other. She had searched far and wide in every shop she could find for a gift but alas, there was nothing with Shishi branding. Someone had garnered Taly’s attention though, outside of one of the shops, and he beckoned her down a side alley. She followed (and would never tell Krice who would probably have a heart attack at the thought) and within his run down cart he showed the witch a limited edition, not even released yet, Titan of Whimper. “Are you sure that’s his name?” Taly asked with a narrowing of her eyes. The man was emphatic and clearly a wonderful sales person. “Oh yes, Miss! The Blue Seaman, five time Titan of Whimper!” Taly squinted at the figurine again. Not having seen Shishi before she looked down at the package to see a buff looking sailor, ripped with muscles and looking menacing with his furrowed brow and snarling lip. “And, if you act now I’ll throw in an enchanted music box that plays his arena entrance song!” This all sounded like a good deal to the witch who shrugged her shoulders and paid the man way too much gold for a black market and incorrect product. Not only was the action figure completely inaccurate, but the music box played a jaunty nautical tune instead and unfortunately for Tiber and Lana, was poorly enchanted so that it burst out its music randomly and loudly. “Damn it!” Taly muttered under her breath. She had to get that gift bag back! Thankfully, they had also gifted Tiber, and by extension Lana, a private tour of a distillery that specialized in whiskey making, but she would be quite embarrassed by the doll mishap. Unfortunately for her, Gordyn Wamsey chose that moment to ring the dinner bell and usher them all towards the table to eat. Taly had been to enough of Lana’s events to know you had to do what the chef said when he said it, so she begrudgingly took her seat, looking over her shoulder wistfully towards the gift table.

Shishi raises a brow, first at Gordyn, then at the shattering glass, “What the heck..?” He asks, echoing the guest of honor. He doesn’t feel like anyone at the party is in any particular danger, but he had meant to dismiss the red shade from his eye and return to the far less dangerous version of himself once his entrance was concluded, but he puts that on hold for the moment just in case. Meanwhile, fully aware that her father will not eat any of the food that will be set at his place, finally vacates the kitchen and goes to grab a seat. The blonde half-elf’s intention is clear; two portions of everything. She loves birthdays. On her way to a table, the teenage witch casts a glance at Loravelle cowering behind Leoxander, “What the heck..?” she mutters to herself.

Tiber took the nod from Krice with respect. He knew. There was a mutual respect and understanding there, as Tiber would be the same way in any other situation. Krice is hiding his laughs from Gordyn, and although he hates that Gordyn is bashing on the Blue Demon, Tiber is trying to hide his smirk as well for a moment. This -would- happen. Abruptly a sea shanty tune echoes through the room and instantly he is wondering what kind of enchanted music that is? Was a sailor in the room? He automatically looks at Leoxander. "What is that?" What was happening?

Shishi’s daughter puffs out her cheeks in a pout after seeing Talyara’s gift to Tiber. She’d heard of these knockoffs before, but has never had the chance to see one in person. The Orange Witch pries herself away from the food and tip toes across the party to get a glimpse at this thing. “The blue what!?” She tries to stifle a laugh, caught right in between being furious about the use of her client’s likeness without expressed written consent, and finding the inauthenticity of the thing absurdly hilarious…

Loravelle doesn't know what to do with herself. Between the shadows, the sight of the Blue Demon, the sound of glass smashing and Leo seizing her by her arms to shield her. Is this how surprise parties work?! Hopefully Leo didn't want this next time, and she better not get this for her birthday...Well, she takes that thought back. The balloons and decorations are lovely, and though she isn't quite sure what that pig suspended from the ceiling is for, it's...well, if Lora squints, it's kinda like a kite. Kind of. She can learn to appreciate it. Her wide eyes just stare at Leo's for some confirmation that this is normal for parties and that it's safe, but then she catches a glimpse of Orange nearby. If the girl seems comfortable, perhaps...Perhaps it's just fine. Shouldn't they be sitting down? A drink sounded good to settle nerves, and she just might steal a pull from Leo's whiskey whenever he's given some...

Lanara just wants to nibble on her salad but now she’s interrupted by the shattering of glass as a presumed brick flies through the window. “What the hell?!” She joins Tiber in examining the brick and she sighs, clearly not understanding the message. She wanders over to the window and hopes that she won’t be responsible for the damage. It’s not the first time she’s caused destruction when hosting a party. Lana sighs and shakes her head, momentarily interrupted by one of the servers that says that dinner will be brought out shortly. She hasn’t even finished her salad?! She retreats to the table only to find that her salad is now gone as they assumed she had finished. Lana sits down and gently nudges Taly, “I -love- your romper! Very chic.” To Tiber, she smirks, “Were you surprised, Love?” A strange nautical theme blares out from Taly’s gift and Lana looks mildly horrified, “Who is that?” Did she confuse Tiber with Leoxander? -He- was the pirate! They both have blonde hair and are lycans…

Krice glanced at Shishi’s daughter, a familiar face, a familiar aura, but one he hadn’t had the opportunity to directly converse with. Still, there was something… The Sea Shanty of Talyara’s ill-advised purchase rang out and he cringed, a subtle expression that maybe only she would see, knowing him as well as she did. Scooting his chair back, he would stand from the table and move to casually dispose of the mock-Titan to a place it would not be heard. Or maybe he’d just discreetly snap its little neck so it would shut up. If Tiber already had it, he would not rise from his seat--because damn, too late--and instead would offer, " It's just a joke gift. Meant for laughs."

Krice covers for his girl, because he is a badass.

Leoxander looked from Loravelle to Leralynn when the girl passed by with her plate. He just shook his head a bit at the witch as if to say, ‘Don’t ask’. Aware of her past with Shishi and how the old man came to be no more, he could understand why the Mouse might be skittish in the same room with the tournament champ, but tried to reassure her with a few low spoken words. “Hey. I’m righ’ here.” To reassure her nothing was going to happen to her on his watch - not that he ever expected Blue to try. Tiber’s question caught his attention briefly as he winced at the loud, off key tinks of notes from the music box and replied. “...Drunken Sailor.” Of course he knew the answer to that one. Definitely not Shishi’s fanfare intro. Maybe more aptly suited to him, though the only songs he had tied to him were written by his fiance, gifted on his own nameday months prior. Coaxing Loravelle to the table with a few words, “C’mon, le’s siddown.” He followed it up with a request to the server taking the drink orders. “Double whiskey, neat.” Going so far as to demonstrate some gentlemanly skill in helping Lora’ settle, he dropped heavily into the seat beside her, glancing briefly toward whoever happened to wind up at his other side. That alcohol couldn’t get there soon enough.

Talyara smiled weakly at Krice after she leaned in to hear his comforting whisper. Perhaps she should have shown him the gift before she wrapped it. Taly startled with the rest when the brick flew through the window but nothing mortified her as much as that nautical tune blaring from across the room. “I’ll check it out!” she said a bit too quickly in a voice which was a much higher pitch than normal. “It’s your party, enjoy it! I’ll just…kip over…there…” The witch paused only for a moment when her sister complimented her outfit to thank her before making a show of checking the other parts of the room -aside- from the gift table. Unfortunately, by the time she meadered over -very casually- she found it manned by someone else who was peeking in the bag! “Excuse me,” Taly said with a polite, tight smile, grabbing the bag by the handles and side stepping to the window. Hoping everyone’s attention was elsewhere, Taly turned her back to the partygoers and pitched the black market doll out of the window. Shuffling back to the gifts, she placed the bottle of wine Krice brought in the bag along with the card and quickly scurried back to the table. “That was weird! No idea what that was about but it seems to have stopped!”

Krice was left standing by the gift table to watch Talyara dispose of the doll she had purchased. Hilarious. The warrior's grin even showed a dimple in his left cheek, and his eyes were warm as they tracked the witch back from that window. He would move with her to the table, once again tuck her chair under her, and then take his seat at her side. There, the warrior would ensure that his hip-mounted katana was angled along the floor, sticking inward so as not to trip up passersby and servers. Given Talyara's quickness to dispatch the obnoxious singing doll, Krice had no need to explain to Tiber what it was. Well done, girl. Under the table, he reached in to pat her near thigh twice before sliding his fingers between her knees to give an affectionate, congratulatory squeeze.

Shishi’s daughter cringes when Krice looks her way. Word that she is the terrorist known as The Orange Mask is all the way out since the resurrection of The Xalious Tree and the enigma might have a bone to pick with her still about The Druid’s Eternal Tree. Leralynn is beyond thankful for the distraction of Talyara’s gift and, once she’s had her own look at the thing, the blonde teen slinks back to her seat and finishes off what’s left of those salads....

Krice may have been distracted by his delightful quick-thinking witch, but Leralynn was not remotely forgiven for her role in the event that left the Eternal Tree half-dead and him poisoned just as much. Perhaps they would have words, but now was not the time. Still, if the conversation took his attention in the direction of her seat, he would occasionally take the opportunity to glance her way, until certain that she was aware that -he- was.

Loravelle calms down with Leo's reassurances, thank goodness. Just enough to get led to her seat, where she's shocked that her fiance helps her into her seat, and grateful too. She uses the salad as an excuse to not have to talk and just shovels a forkful into her mouth, and after chewing and swallowing she drinks some of the apple wine given to her. She'll just alternate between those two things while watching everyone else in some effort to get back into happy party mode. Seeing Orange and Blue has her torn – she liked Orange a fair bit, admittedly, since she had a soft spot for kids, but her father was someone that left her torn. Terrifying but also her savior, in a major way. She eats faster than anticipated, and almost wants to look over at Leo and make a joke about him eating rabbit food if he's even touched his yet. Maybe there will be more fun (less spooky) party surprises soon.

Lanara isn’t sure what’s going on as Krice rises to do something with the gifts, followed by Talyara who hurls something out the hole in the window that the sea salt taffy brick had made. Her sneaky sister is behaving suspiciously and Lana narrows her eyes in wonder. At this rate, all of Tiber’s gifts will be in pieces! The main course is brought out and she busies herself with slicing her steak, just now realizing Orange is sitting at the table. “Hi! I’m Lana! I don’t think we’ve ever met.” Moments later, she shifts her gaze to Leo and Lora and she cannot help but ask, “Have you set a date, yet?” She better be invited to that wedding!

Tiber watches as Talyara lifts from her chair, but the Catalian is more intrigued with a drink to take his nerves off of looking over his shoulder every twenty seconds before Talyara says that the music stopped. The sailor music is in the distance and muffled in a bush out that shattered window with a ‘doo, doo–static sound’ and then nothing. He slowly watches Talyara come back. “I think Leoxander was just trying to share his new music with us, as he has a little bard by his side,” eyes stare at Loravelle. “Flattering for a birthday, I’ll say. You outdid yourself, man.” Just showing up if anything.

Talyara’s face was flushed but for all anyone knew it was from the -wine-. It had absolutely nothing to do with the black market Blue Seaman Titan of Whimper action figure she had just pitched out the window. She gave Krice an appreciative smile and if she wasn’t so embarrassed, she would have been charmed by his dimple. Back at the table, the witch realized her salad was gone before she even had a chance to enjoy it. Sighing she turned her attention back to her sister. “You did amazing with the decorations of course, although I must admit that thing hanging from the ceiling is a bit, uh, disturbing. Is that Tiber’s favorite animal?” Next, the little witch turned her attention to Loravelle who is given a kind smile. “Feeling better, yeah?”

Krice settled in to eat with Talyara enjoying conversation, slicing his steak and combined it with a forkful of whatever else was on the plate. His style was methodical for the necessity of fuel, not the enjoyment of food - though admittedly, this food was nice.

Tiber said to Talyara, "No, Lanara has nightmares about that were-pig. It'd be forbidden to be my favorite animal."

Tiber looks up in the air at this thought of owning a were-pig. He then lifts his drink, "Not that the were-pig exists. I made it up for a kid. The kid liked it, no one else didn't."

Lanara chokes on a piece of potato when Taly asks about the werepig pinata, “Uh. Yeah! Actually… Tiber and I were babysitting one day and he told me this horrific tale called ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and there was this scientist that-” Her voice trails off as Tiber interrupts and she shudders, “What he said.”

Talyara furrowed her brow at Tiber's statement and then turned to Lana. "What is with you and pigs? First the frost boars and now were-pigs?!"

Krice's brow twitched at Talyara's mention of 'Frost boars', specifically since it was spoken to Lanara. History was there. A little distressing, but it turned out well in the end. He continued to eat, relaxed and quiet beside the emerald-eyed witch.

Leoxander‘s appetite was for something less green and more liquid, though he might have picked a crouton off Loravelle’s plate with his fingers to crunch on until that cut glass of high quality whiskey was placed before the unshaven rogue. He didn’t know the agenda for gatherings like this - it was different from the galas and gownz and there seemed to be a schedule, which started with surprise celebrity appearances and food. Rabbit food. Nevermind that there was a fairly new tattoo of a rabbit on the inside of his right wrist. Doing his best not to choke on his first drink of liquor as Lanara poses that question their way, he sets it down as if he weren’t in the state of mind to chug it down and flatly answers, “...No.” But Loravelle, if she decided to speak up again, might make that response a little less uncomfortable. He managed to do his best outwardly ignoring that moment Tiber’s eyes graced over Lora’s summer dressed form and paid her a compliment, instead turning it into some dry humor with an adjustment of his flannel collar and a response toward the man of the nameday. “Thanks. I try.”

Shishi’s daughter stuffs a bite of steak into her mouth while not-so-subtly eying Krice. She’s so distracted that she nearly chokes when Lanara greets her. “A-,” she coughs, “Aye~!” and speaks with a full mouth, “Leralynn Thorne…” the blonde half-elf delicately offers the beautiful witch her hand while swallowing her bite, “Blue’s agent. We spoke through the mail about him coming today.” The girl blowing the not so well kept secret that the five time Titan doesn’t answer his own mail. She also, between giving the false surname and calling herself her father’s agent, conveniently leaves out the fact that she is Shishi’s daughter…

Lanara scoffs at Talyara, “Did you forget about Rolling Thunder?! He was a racing pig!”

Talyara 's eyes widened in surprise at Lana's words and the piece of steak slid off her fork and plopped back onto the plate. "I -did- forget about Rolling Thunder! How could I?!"

Tiber shifts his eyes to Lanara. "So you do like pig were-boys, huh?" It was a jest before eyes bounce to Leo who is taking the credit, but he shrugs it off before looking to Krice who was sawing into his food. Tiber does the same. "And how've you been, Krice?"

Loravelle doesn't know where to look when it comes to questions about their wedding date. Of course Lanara is invited! They're sort of waiting on her other sisters to arrive, if they do arrive by ship...Should only be another month or so, right? That thought and the thought of she and her fiance finally getting married produces a genuine smile that cuts through her skittishness and she mouths the word 'soon' to Lanara, and tries a little wink. It might not be subtle, but she's trying! Wait. Little bard? She stares back at Tiber and feels her face turning warm. It's an accurate description, so all she can really do is smile and nod, and smile and nod more enthusiastically at Talyara when the kind witch healer addresses her. Never better, and she raises her half emptied glass of wine before taking another drink. She might need another glass after finishing this one off.

Leoxander was drawn toward the sound of Orange’s muffled voice and leaned back in his chair, briefly balancing on the two back legs with boot tread against the leg of the table, to look her way. “How you feelin’ after fightin’ that (censored), sprat?” Filthy mouth. No excuse.

Lanara accepts the hand of Leralynn and smiles warmly, “I’m so glad that you answered my letter. I know that Blue’s appearance has made Tiber’s birthday truly special.” She pauses. “Leralynn is a lovely name!” The girl is so well mannered that it’s refreshing to meet her acquaintance. Most teens are all attitude and angst. Lana is nearly halfway done with her steak when Leo replies that they haven’t set a date for their wedding, and she nods, “I only ask because if you want a destination wed-” She catches herself as she doesn’t want to blurt out their engagement in case they are still keeping it a secret. “Certain places require you to book far in advance.”

Krice did not expect to be spoken to. He had paused chewing his latest mouthful--about a third of his meal was gone--to check that Talyara was eating when Tiber volleyed a question his way. Crimson eyes shifted, candlelight catching the gold striae spreading outward from each pupil, and chewed a couple times quickly to make his cheek-ful a little smaller for more polite speaking. " Fine," was his response, and if anyone cared to notice, it might be considered the truth; after all, Talyara had made him smile more than once tonight. In public. A feat in and of itself. " Looks like you're enjoying yourself." Poor fellow stoic. He offered Leoxander a look that subtly displayed his disapproval of the foul language, but honestly, who cared? Then, toward Lanara, he answered about Leralynn, " Oh, yeah. She's a peach." Sarcasm, slight, obscured behind his natural introversion, but probably obvious.

Loravelle hadn't thought about booking a place for the wedding and her eyes widen a little. She hasn't put much thought in wedding arrangements at all, in truth. The half of her sisters that lived in Gualon were already working on her dress, she knew, given a recent visit alone where they wrestled her into some fabric to see how it fit her, but other than that... She looks at Leo again, brows raised. When in the world are they going to start planning this?

Shishi puffs out his cheeks and looks a little lost regarding what to do with himself. He scans the room and offers Leo an abrupt wave before raising a brow at the servant girl he’s treating so gently. ‘Why is she looking at me like that?’ The Blue Demon thinks to himself before he suddenly realizes he’s still disturbing the shadows in this place with his family’s curse. “Oh…” both hands adjust his neck tie and his one visible eye slowly fades back to its natural oceanic blue shade, returning the surrounding darkness back to its own natural state. Loravelle is silently mouthing words to Lanara, further reinforcing The Blue Demon’s knowledge that she is a mute (and possibly also deaf).

Tiber expects the ‘fine’, and does not delve further into it. Nor does he really emotionally think he should, as ‘fine’ was a term he understood. He takes a last bite of his dinner before carrying onto whiskey. Loravelle, from his comment, is nodding a ton. He knew she was shy, and mostly she dabbled in strings anyway, so he takes her silence with a grain of salt. Eventually the shadows begin to disperse which has him looking at The Blue Demon. Are his eyes blue?! Why do they turn red?! Is this a makeshift act that one would see on the Cenril strip? Tiber has to think. Think! And then he remembers… wow, how climatic of thought.

Lanara winks at Lora as she senses the woman’s unease with planning something as grand as a wedding, “I can offer you some pointers, or even help you plan. That’s if you both decide. No pressure.” She doesn’t want to force her expertise in party planning on them and she knows that Leo won’t approve of anything with sparkles or unicorns. Krice mentions that Leralynn is a peach and she doesn’t quite catch the sarcasm, as she thinks it’s pointed to his steak. Should she call Gordyn out to prepare a more tender cut? He is almost finished with his plate though, so she doesn’t bother. Lana excuses herself from the table so that she can light the candles on the birthday cake. A quick beckon to the element of fire is all it takes for them to be illuminated and they cast golden halos against the blue fondant, much like the sun shining over the ocean. She stands aside as the two servers gently slide the table closer to where Tiber is seated, while the bards pick up the familiar birthday tune. She doesn’t care much for singing as dancing is more her thing, but she does join in with the others. “Make a wish in your mind and blow the candles out, Darling!” Once his wish has been cast, she hands him a knife so that he can make the first slice. It’s a tradition that’s been passed down for countless generations and she’s not about to make any changes. After Tiber takes his slice, the server cuts a piece for everyone that’s gathered and there’s still plenty left for those that desire a second helping. Lana takes a bite of the chocolate cake with raspberry filling and she savors the taste, even closing her eyes to appreciate Gordyn Whamsey’s work of art. “Wow. This is amazing! Ooh! I nearly forgot! It’s time to open presents!”

Shishi’s daughter puts on a sweet smile and responds to Lanara with, “Aye. Of course. Glad we could help with today.” and, “Thank you,” sparkling a bit as her name is complimented. Towards Leo, the Orange Witch shrugs, “Fine. I guess. It’s fine.” If there is one truth about people who say something is fine multiple times like that, it is that whatever it is is definitely not fine. She changes the subject immediately, “I’m working on a new uh… skeleton thing that will be extra effective on the ship.” She pauses, looking for recognition that the deal from their duel still stands, and then adds “...it isn’t a spider. Don’t worry.”

Leoxander regarded Lanara’s advice with another drink from his glass, having entirely missed (or just didn’t react) to the look Krice briefly fixed in his direction. Once again, he expected Loravelle to pipe up with some conversation regarding the matter - he wasn’t bothering keeping their relationship a secret; couldn’t if they wanted to. After a brief raise of his free hand in return to his old clan mate and titan nemesis, he spoke low again to the future Mrs. Pirate. “The hell’re you so quiet for?” His brow slightly furrowed at Lora, glass in hand, offering her some if she needed a swallow of something stronger for her nerves. Though he afforded some attention to the next stage of this strange social setting that apparently involved a cake.

Shishi's daughter also sinks in her seat and returns to stress eating when Krice's attentions return to her.

Talyara was momentarily surprised by Krice’s sarcastic comment about Shishi’s agent. The little witch looked between the warrior and the young woman and then recognition was registered. Reaching under the table, Taly gave the enigma’s knee an affectionate squeeze and kept her hand there for comfort. She remembered what he had told her after their last interaction with the teenager, and a small frown tugged on the corner of her lips. Lora’s gesture towards the half drained glass of wine and her response of being all good, snapped Taly out of her momentary distress. “I’m glad. And you’re right the wine is delicious. I think I need another glass.” She waved her hand in a polite gesture and asked for another glass for her and Loravelle. When it came time for the birthday cake, Taly gave her undivided attention to her brother-in-law, making sure to sing along and cheer once the candles had been blown out.

Leoxander might have checked a glance back at Leralynn briefly for her reassurance, but there was a bit of a dark look melded in that suggested he wasn't keen on the idea of skeletons on his ship. Conversation for another time.

Krice cast a glance at Talyara for the touch she gave his knee, his expression softening in recognition of her compassion. He stopped eating to communicate his gratitude and appreciation for her in a focused glance, which briefly slid across Leralynn’s face on its way back down to his plate. While Talyara spoke, he finished his meal and then placed his cutlery neatly on the plate before stacking it with Talyara’s - once she was done - for the servers to come collect. A weird feeling, being served like this (it was one of the reasons he wasn’t partial to parties) but it was their job and far be it for him to tell others not to do their jobs. Silent thereafter and taking a mouthful of water, Krice leaned back in his chair to watch Tiber tend to the birthday cake, though cheering and celebration was left to Talyara and others this time.

Tiber was suddenly sucking his cheeks in with a red hue at the singing of birthday cake and candles. He stares at each individual face. This was weird. People singing--mildly off-pitch. At him. Attention. Could a birthday song go any slower? And like any traditional birthday, the man will suck in a big breath before blowing out the candles on the cake. He was a -man-. He blew them -all- out, okay? Yes.

Krice would sing perfectly on pitch if he did sing, ty. He is a badass.

Leoxander knew the sea shanty. He didn't know the birthday song.

Tiber thinks that Krice, in a singing life, could be number one in the music industry.

Loravelle has to wave at Orange at least once, so she tries to sneak a look at the girl and a wave too before her father can see. Thing is, she's not exactly the most stealthy person, so Shishi probably still saw it. It's then that she notices that the shadows have transitioned back to normal, and now she has to look the Blue Demon's way again. How the heck does he do that? It's obviously some terrible magic, she assumes, which just makes it scarier, but she's grateful that he made it stop. Lanara's offer for pointers is noted and she'll absolutely ask the witch for advice later, but not tonight. It's Tiber's birthday party – He should be the center of attention! Her attention is divided between watching Tiber blow out the candles, the birthday music that she'd sing along with if she weren't so shy about singing in public, and Mr. Pirate speaking low to her, so she leans in to murmur something back. ...That is until he offers his glass. Drink first, and her eyes swivel over toward Blue as she drinks to explain a little, finally breaking her silence. “H-he's...” It's complicated. How do you be nice to someone who's nightmarish but also saved your life? “...Not bad,” she concludes. “Just.” After handing the glass back to Leo she motions toward the shadows to explain. Spooky.

Talyara wonders if Krice has a budding career as the newest member of the Backstreet Bards…

Tiber thinks Krice could probably replace Nick Garter.

Krice forehead-slaps. Singing to a microphone with a katana blade for a stand.

Leoxander was still regarding Loravelle’s lack of social skills. Honestly, between the two of them, there weren’t a lot to begin with, but she was around several people she knew, in the company of a protective lycan, her friends, a healer and a warrior who had saved her life. He pinpointed the cause to be Shishi, though he couldn’t fault the man for it. “Relax, Dove. He ain’t here to eat me.” A cruel joke, but no one credited Leo for his exceptional humor. Landing the chair on four legs and scooting it back, he stood and retrieved the blue wrapped box and the larger object that Tiber would probably recognize before he even got into the parchment cover, set on and leaned against the edge of the table for his convenience before he returned to his seat and tore off a bit of steak on his plate with his fingers. A guitar, that much could be identified from the shape, but once it was better revealed the glossy, sunburst finish and the fine craftsmanship of wood and woven six strings tethered to their tuning keys would be revealed. Nothing like Lora’s pipa, bigger than a lute, but hollowed out to a manageable lightweight form with the shape made to cradle the lycan’s form. What’s in the box? A woven neck and shoulder strap and the resin guitar picks with extra spools of strings.

Shishi blinks his one open eye as he’s tapped on the shoulder by one of Gordyn’s cooks that has ventured out of the kitchen to come shoot his shot at getting an autograph from the greatest Titan of Winter of all time. He looks away to get a writing utensil from Orange just as Loravelle unleashes some words from her mouth. Looks like the spooky vampire didn’t hear her speak again…

Krice shared a very small conversation with the redhead seated at his other side, as her plate was stacked atop his own and Talyara’s. He was fine, Talyara was fine, and Alvina and they would all get together again soon. Once Tiber began to unwrap his gifts, the warrior turned his attention there again, which meant he had to put his back to Alvina - not something he liked as it just felt a little rude despite the reason for it, but there he was, with the redhead over his left shoulder, his delightful little witch now in front of him, and his eye particularly focused on the craftsmanship of the revealed guitar. Though the shift in his expression was subtle, one could surmise that he was impressed by the instrument as crimson eyes scrutinized its every visible detail. He looked across the table at Lora and Leoxander and offered them a nod if their eyes met, approving of the gift.

Lanara admires the beauty of the guitar and feels herself growing slightly emotional. Tiber always used his brother's hand-me-down guitar and never had one that was truly -his- until now. Leoxander’s gift is truly touching and she knows that her husband will remember this moment and that it will hopefully be the gift that bridges their bond. The workmanship is incredible and it will play much nicer tunes than that strange sea shanty that blared from her sister's gifter earlier. Lana reaches up to dry a tear that manages to escape her eye and she accepts a tissue from Alvina’s purse and whispers, “Thank you, Doll… And don’t worry! I’ll make sure that Tiber opens your present in the privacy of our home.” The women exchange an amused look as the gift is more for Lana, though entirely for Tiber’s benefit. More lingerie to add to her wardrobe!

Once there was a spare moment, Talyara gave Tiber the gift she and Krice had brought him--or rather, Krice's bottle of expensive foreign whiskey that she had expertly exchanged for the messed-up obnoxious doll now dead in a bush. In the bag to accompany the wine, an all-expenses-paid trip to a distillery for a private tour, tasting, and bottling of Tiber's own choice of wine. A nice, complimentary gift from the couple to Lanara's side.

Loravelle couldn't take credit for the guitar as that was Leo's thoughtful choice. Hers was the contents in the box, since she always worried about not having spare strings or picks for her instruments in a pinch. She hasn't touched the slice of cake served to her just yet, but she copies Lana and went for a slice from the layer of chocolate cake with raspberry filling. Eager to see Tiber's reaction to the gifts she and the pirate brought along has her looking intently the birthday boy's way, fingers crossed in hopes that he liked it all.

Leoxander would note the gift from the both of them, as they were now Leovelle or Loraxander or some goofy mix. But it was pretty obvious they didn't do things separate from each other often, by now.

Tiber watched as the pirate lifted from his seat, as he pulled out a blue package that matches the scenery of tonight’s event. That has to be a Mouse move–the wrapping. The blue eyed blonde was not one to wrap something so delicately. A moment where he symbolizes Loravelle like Lanara in that sense. The small details. He automatically recognizes the shape, but it does not feel surreal. Over time, he had been carrying Augustus Lowell’s guitar. His older brother. The only thing he managed to snag from the falling of Catal. When Tiber moves to unwrap the gift, he takes a pause at Leoxander and Loravelle, “You…” he is having a hard time speaking. “You didn’t have to do this,” it was cliche, but… low and abnormal for Tiberius to mutter such sentimental tone of words towards Leoxander and Loravelle. The gift would mean more than he ever knew, because as he pulls off the paper, he finds his own reflection in the shine of sunburst. Himself. His own. As much as he wanted to hold his lost brother’s identity, it was nice to hold something that was… him. A sharp inhale is given. Tucking back emotions out of habit. “Thank you.” His voice is oddly soft. He then moves to the smaller package at the picks, and he smiles charmingly. “You two are the worst, but… I’m so grateful.” It was a very thankful phrase, and he was normally not sure how to show his appreciation. He nods to the pirate. “You best be ready to play the next open-mic,” and he looks at Loravelle. “Thank you for keeping me in your heart that I love strings.”

Lanara smiles at Krice and Talyara as they thought to include her in the distillery tour portion of Tiber’s gift. “So thoughtful…” She smiles at Loravelle as she notices that they both chose the same kind of cake. “Thank you both…” Everyone’s gift will be put to good use and she knows that Tiber loves them all!

Leoxander raised what was left in his glass to Tiber in salute, his expression not betraying a smile, but it was perhaps the most peaceful interaction the two had since the day they met.

Krice and Talyara acknowledged Lanara and Tiber's gratitude, though his girl was considerably more open about it. Tiber's sentimental fondness for the guitar drew the warrior's eye and his own expression softened with understanding. Well would you look at that, three hard-ass men a little nicer for the existence of a beautifully-crafted musical instrument. At least in that moment.

Tiber blinks as the next gift is given, as he places the guitar in his lap gently. Keep the balance. The wine and the distillery tour. "Oh, we are going to have honeymoon part two, and I'm ready." He slams his fist on the table in excitement. He shifts his eyes between the group of people. "We'll keep it classy, of course." Maybe. "Thanks, Taly, and... Krice. We love you guys." He observes the bottle of wine, which is a Lanara thing, but he loves alcohol anyway. He is content, and amused at their new possible adventure.

Lanara is the last to give Tiber his gift and she cannot hide the smirk on her lush lips, because he’s either going to love it or utterly despise it. She’s always been a bit of a wildcard when it comes to creativity and she’s not sure if he will appreciate this gesture. Handing him a medium sized box wrapped in sparkly blue paper with a frilly white ribbon on top, she takes a step back and waits for his facial expression to shift. A small note card reads ‘Wear -only- this later for your other present!’ with a bunch of x’s and o’s in Lana’s handwriting. In the box is a complete set of body wash, shampoo, bars of soap, aftershave, and cologne. The bottles are black and have tan labels noting the name, ingredients, and a picture on the front and rear. It’s a generic gift for one's husband, right!? Wrong! This particular set has an incredibly accurate drawing of Tiber on the label, clad in a cowboy hat, chaps, and a pair of cowboy boots. The brand reads ‘The Catalian Stallion’ and if he’s to turn the bottles over he will learn that the drawing continues… And his bare arse is on full display in those chaps! It states that ‘Cowboy Butts Drive The Ladies Nuts’ on the tagline. If Tiber is to open the bottle he will find that the cologne has a rather pleasant smell that has touches of sagebrush, hay, whiskey, leather, patchouli, and bergamot. The scent is intoxicating to women and reminiscent of warmth, woods, and rugged sensuality. The witch hurriedly explains, “I designed the fragrance myself and had it bottled and hired someone to do the art according to my description of you! I figure it’s an honest line of work and that you deserve to have your own brand.” It certainly won’t raise any questions about their wealth as Tiberius’ criminal activity is sure to be noticed at some point. “It’s going to hit shelves all over the realm in two weeks! I’m so excited!” She glances at the other men in the room and hopes they aren’t too jealous. One of the servers walks over with a bat and a bandana and hands it to Lana and she passes it to Tiber, “Oh that’s right! We need to break the pinata!” At least if he dislikes any of his presents he can take his anger out on the pink wolf-piggy.

Loravelle's smile broadens at Tiber's reaction. She isn't empathic, but she knows for a fact she's had a very similar reaction to gifts before that met something significant. The fact that Leo and herself were able to give something so special to Tiber is heartwarming. “We gotta play sometime too,” and she looks at Lanara as well, finishing her thought. “And dance!” She starts digging into her cake after that while observing the other birthday gifts, and she sniffs at the air at the sudden scent of cologne. It's faint to her human nose, but it smelled nice. And Lanara designed it herself? Is there anything she can't do? Another item to add to the list of things to pester the witch about later. Can she make perfumes? Lora liked perfume.

Krice was not jealous of Tiber's cologne brand--why on earth would he be? All he needed or wanted was bottled in the beautiful witch at his side--but rather, impressed by the gift and glad for Tiber that he now had something to focus on long-term. His own brand. Seated beside her - but with his body turned - as she was, Talyara leaned back into his chest and settled comfortably while Tiber celebrated his gifts, her face full of love and warmth for the family vibes that filled the room.

Leoxander would be glad he hadn’t been hired for that work of art if he’d gotten a glimpse at the bottle.

Tiber moves from one gift to, lastly, Lanara’s. The smirk on her face is devious and the man takes ahold of the small gift wrapped so neatly. He reads the tag, and he lofts a brow at the note. Other present? He adjusts his collar slightly. Was it hot in here? Once he peels away the paper, he sees the sketch of labels that have his… booty on it?! Is the Kelvarian saying that the Catalian matches her derriere in this product?! His skin becomes inflamed with pink and heat, which is not so normal for him, but he is in a room of very uptight men, sheepish women, a teenager, -and- the Blue Demon! Tiber fumbles with the bottles and they are jumping around in his hands to and fro before they land on the table. The aroma already comes from the bottle, which is quite charming and masculine–seductive. He is flattered, but almost mortified. For a past escort, he is very sheepish about what gift the girl gives him. The Catalian Stallion cologne line. “All over the realm?!” His voice is lower and tight. He takes a glance. Does he have bare chaps that show the definition of his butt? Sheepishly he snickers and slowly hides the bottles from the Blue Demon. While Shishi was battling his way to celebrity, Tiber was becoming a full-on booty model. He laughs before looking at Lanara. “Thank you, baby,” his words are high-pitched in embarrassment. Then she mentions the pinata that relieves his tension. For now.

Leoxander teasingly covered Loravelle’s eyes with his cloth wrapped left hand as the bottles landed in plain sight.

Talyara eyed Tiber's gift from Lanara cautiously. It's not that she didn't trust her sister, but she had celebrated many a holiday with the older witch, more than anyone in this room combined, and she was all too familiar that her line of gifts sometimes came with a condition. At first it seemed simple enough, some hygiene products, most likely high end and expensive. But then as the label is revealed, the younger witch cannot help but grin. Her brother-in-law, the Catalian Stallion. His bare behind shared with the whole realm. "That was very nice of you to share," Talyara teased her sister with a wink.

Lanara can see that Tiber’s deeply moved by her thoughtful present and she nods in understanding, “See? That’s what you look like without a shirt and in a cowboy getup, if you ever thought to buy some spurs and chaps. I think the artist perfectly depicted your features!” She leans in as she sees him glance Blue’s way and she whispers, “I know. I think he’s going to be as jealous as Leo and Krice must be, but it’s okay. You deserve the limelight. It’s your first birthday!” She pats him affectionately on the arm and smooches him on the cheek, “Later I will help you unwrap the gift from Alvina.” Lana doesn’t want to embarrass poor Loravelle as she’s already been surprised by the smoke, a celebrity vampire, the unique pinata, and a random brick flying through the window. “Okay! Tiber will go first and if anyone else wants a turn, you can all line up! Basically you spin around three times, while blindfolded, and you run with the bat and smash the pinata as hard as you can! Eventually, it will break open!” She ties the bandana around Tiber’s head and covers his eyes, before she playfully spins him thrice in a clockwise direction and shoves him towards the middle of the room. The bat is in his hands and the werepig pinata is waiting.

Krice thankfully could not see the art on the bottle, positioned two seats over from its receiver, so he simply sat that very happily oblivious to the reason behind everyone's shock, embarassment, and amusement. Tilting his head, the warrior rested his right jaw against Talyara's left temple, comfortably close while they enjoyed the company of friends and family.

Loravelle is about to shovel another forkful of cake in her mouth before she's suddenly blinded by the pirate's hand. She freezes, but laughs a little. Was something bad happening that she missed...? In any case, Leo better use his free hand to grab the fork and give her the cake she's missing out on while he shields her eyes from The Catalian Stallion.

Tiber is still blushing severely, even if Lanara is telling him it is time for a piñata. Eyes shift around the room before he moves to the were-pig. Is that the piñata dangling? He then stands. Lanara explains the rules before putting a blindfold over his eyes and spinning him around multiple times. As a man who was abnormally seasick, this was not much better with the spins. Once he is 'steady', he waves the bat and completely misses. "Frakkin' aye. What kinda party beats a were-pig? Was this real? Do were-pig paper machete animals show up at every party?" He is genuinely curious with his lore. He then breathes and takes another swing which meets contact at the itty bitty tail of the beast. "Gotchya piggy!" He grins like a boy, as if he never realized he would ever like a party like this one. Maybe... he liked birthdays. He then moves to the left where the piñata to get his third turn and hits the paper were-pig with force with a small crack. "Yeah!" He lifts the blindfold. "Who is next? Everyone has to hit pig."

Talyara had completely forgotten about the cake and she quickly moved to rectify that by snatching up her plate. She sampled all three but decided the red velvet with cream cheese frosting was her favorite. As Krice rested his jaw against her temple she stabbed a piece of the apple spiced cake and offered the fork over her shoulder to the warrior. “Try, I think you’ll really like this one!” With the Catalian Stallion bottles neatly tucked away back in the box, the real reason for the were-pig hanging from the ceiling is brought to light. Taly wasn’t the most dextrous when it came to athletics so she would sit the bat swinging out and let the others partake and enjoy.

Leoxander grabbed the fork in turn. Was he reading the Mouse’s mind? A big hunk of frosted, raspberry filled, chocolate layers, directed right into his own mouth before he forfeit the fork back and dropped his hand, turning his attention toward whatever the hell they had called that ugly thing noosed to the ceiling. A crepe paper sacrifice, apparently. Watching the still twelve year old take his chosen weapon and warwear in hand and over eyes, Leo raises a brow and desperately searches out a server, because it’s time for another drink.

Krice didn't want to partake in the pretend-pig hitting either, comfortable as he was with his witch. Tilting his head forward, he accepted her offering of the apple-flavoured cake and nodded as he swirled it around behind closed lips. A few seconds later, the sample was finished and he nodded his agreement. "Absolutely right, Little Lady," he murmured fondly, before reaching past Talyara to retrieve his own plate of specifically apple-caramel cake. With it on the table, he would use his left hand--his dominant one, by the dexterity he showed--to eat the cake, his right arm folded over the back of his chair as he sat sideways across the seat to accommodate his companion's closeness. As Tiber enjoyed his blindfolded were-pig whacking, the warrior glanced intermittently his way to ensure that he was still at least partially engaged in the festivities. It was nice to see a fellow introvert enjoying the company of others.

Lanara applauds her husband as he moves around like a drunkard and wields the bat with all his might. She catcalls and shouts, “Yeah! The Catalian Stallion is up! Batter up, Baby! Show that wolfpig who is boss! If you work up a sweat you can put on some of your cologne!” She’s furthering his embarrassment likely, but she’s also trying to be supportive! Tiber finishes and offers everyone else a chance and she shakes her head, “I don’t hit animals, even fake ones.” Alvina says, “Sorry, but I’m wearing heels.” Taly also turns down the chance to strike the crepe beast and Leo looks like he needs another drink. Lana doesn’t even have to look at Krice to know that he’s sitting this one out. So she looks at Lora, “Would you like to try?” If not, the witch will look at Tiber, “You have to keep going until it pops.”

Shishi eyes the piggy pinata thoughtfully and thinks he and Red (or maybe White) did something like this for the twins’ birthday once in the past. He puffs out his cheeks and moves away from the line, not wanting to take any swings at that thing if he doesn’t have to. Meanwhile, Leralynn has eaten two of everything and is now enviously eying the pinata and the bat. She hesitates to stand up and get in line though. She wasn’t technically invited to this party and has shown up in the capacity of Blue’s handler, so she’s worried that it wouldn’t be her place to participate in this activity. There’s also the injury that has her non-dominant arm in a sling to think about, but The Orange Witch is determined to not let that particular thing stop her at the very least.

Lanara beams with pride at Leralynn and tells Tiber to hand the girl the bat.

Loravelle :: “You sneak!” Lora laughs when she can see again, and finds that her bite was stolen by Leo. Didn't he get his own slice of cake? She'd have to find a way to steal a bite of his next, but she'll take a few more bites of her own while watching Tiber get blindfolded, spun around, and sent loose to try to smack that strange were-pig creation. It looks fun, and to her shock Lora leaves her plate of cake unfinished, and heads over to the pinata to try her hand at it. Lanara's timing is absolutely impeccable, because she's already on the way over, nodding eagerly. It's doubtful she'll hit or even break open the pinata, but what's the worst that can happen? Hopefully whenever she's blindfolded, and given the bat to start swinging, everybody has stepped out of the way…

Talyara whistled at Loravella when she approached the line to take a whack at the pinata. "Woooo you got it!" she cheered on the bookkeeper.

Tiber claps because he wants Loravelle to break the piñata, "Let's go, peep!"

Lanara watches as the pinata tears down the center and a plethora of individually wrapped sweets pour out. The flood is covered in confections and she claps excitedly, “You did it!” She looks at Leralynn and feels bad that she didn’t get a turn, so she motions to the pile, “Feel free to take some home with you!”

Krice didn't understand the game of pinata, as told by his slightly bemused expression while he observed, but everyone seemed happy so he knew at least that it was a game meant to inspire fun. He was surprised to see that diminutive little Loravelle was the one to ultimately spill the candy from within, but not unpleasantly. He cast a brief glance at Leoxander to see his reaction, before turning to observe the festivities. Leralynn once more ended up in his field of vision but he did not stare. Turning his head, the warrior nuzzled his witch's hairline gently, before finishing off his apple-flavored serving of cake and leaving the plate to be collected.

Tiber notices the teenager that came in with the Blue Demon. "Take it! It's all yours!"

Shishi and Orange go, "Gwah~" and the kid goes and snatches up some candy.

Shishi's daughter does not wait for Tiber to change his mind.

Loravelle is disoriented and confused once she's been blindfolded and twirled around, but she holds that bat tight in her hands and takes a blind swing. Miss. Several more misses follow, but then she finally makes contact with -something-, and is utterly shocked, so she just keeps swinging and the sound of a whole lot of something falling to the floor and Lanara's exclamation that she did it has her stop, lower the bat, and lift the blindfold up with her free hand. “...Wow...” She made a mess. But that's good, right?

Leoxander folded his arms over his chest in that usual precarious tilt of chair that balanced it on two pegs rather than four, in between making certain that he could finish off that free top-shelf alcohol. If he had such a thing as a wrist watch he might have subtly checked it. He’d done his part, showed up, indulged in some food and liquor he didn’t have to pay for. They had an island to get back to, horses to feed, mutts to wear out, eventually. For now, he watched Orange and Lora take their turns at the birthday tradition. Would have made far more sense to string up one of Tiber’s enemies, like that guy that gave him the shiner. But to each their own.

Shishi watches with a blank stare while Leralynn stuffs the candies into the sling that her left arm is in…

Krice may or may not have agreed with Leoxander's poetic license on pinata pelting, if given the alternative to consider.

Lanara looks up as Greyson walks over and whispers something in her tapered ear, which has her nodding in response. The Amber Lunation is having a little party for their Alpha back at the house and she needs to make sure they are back in time. Rising from her seat, she looks at each face in the room and smiles, “Thank you all so much for coming to celebrate Tiber’s birthday. I hope you had a good time and that you will come again next year!” She can even add to the Catalian Stallion line and create new designs! “There is -plenty- of cake left, so please, take some home with you. Chef Whamsey will be very upset if any is left over! I hope you all have safe travels home and again, thank you for making this a memorable birthday for my husband and for me.” Lana looks at Tiber and blows him a kiss. She’ll wait until the others leave before they make their way back to Sage Forest.

Tiber watches the fiend of a teen, and sort of blinks. A snack-fiend, she was. He looks at Loravelle. "You did it!" And drunkenly, because of whiskey, he throws some birthday cake on the floor. Then tucks his lips in. Was this right? He was not a birthday poster. Tiber then looks at Leoxander who is impatient, and before Leoxander and Loravelle depart, he rises and reaches out to shake the lycan's hand. "Thank you. I know you didn't have to show up, but... really... thank you. And like I said prior, you didn't have to." Frenemy at that, Tiber then moves on to others in the party.

Tiber waits for any departures, and wraps a cake-glazed hand around his wife. A tipsy cheek leans on her head as he only gives a smirk of a thankful gaze.

Talyara cheered loudly when Lora made contact with the pinata, breaking it open and spilling the contents. After that excitement it seemed as if the party was winding down the witch begrudgingly straightened from leaning against the warrior and pushed herself to a stand. She would make the rounds in saying goodbye, hugging Alvina and Loravelle (if she were accepting!) and waving goodbye to Leo. Lanara and Tiber were next and Taly pulled them both into a tight hug. “Thanks for having us, we had a great time! And happy birthday, Tiber!” As everyone began to shuffle out, Taly snagged Krice’s hand and tugged him along the side of the building where they could collect the black market action figure. The tinkling sound of an off-tune nautical jingle could be heard through the broken window as the couple quickly made their way to find Gylworliath.

Loravelle is absolutely going to take some cake home. And maybe some candy, but mostly the cake. She has a box full of it ready to go by the time she notices Leo looking done with being around other people. In her haste to get him home so he can breathe, her parting words to everyone else is non-existent, but she does enthusiastically wave farewell to everyone, Shishi included but it's sorta shy and confused and – It's complicated, okay? Heck. But she has cake, and beat up a flying pig full of candy, so...That's a win, right? Surprise birthday parties are fun to attend. Hopefully someone else has a birthday surprise party soon.

Shishi's daughter might be heard saying something like, "Well... we don't want to upset him..." before ushering in a somewhat fresh reanimated corpse from outside the inn to assist her with hauling away as much leftover cake as possible. The Titan of Winter puts in one more bit of face time with Tiber, reiterating birthday wishes and thanking the couple for the 'invite' while Leralynn is getting busy with the cake hoarding. With all that done, the pair will be on their way, heading back to Vailkrin tonight...

Krice only moved once Talyara did, the absence of her warmth compelling him to follow it. And also, the party was winding down and he didn't want to stay where she wouldn't be. The warrior tucked in their chairs and turned to farewell Alvina after Talyara did, his expression somewhat tender and understanding. He would reach out to touch her shoulder in a gentle gesture of reassurance before turning to step in his witch's wake toward Tiber and Lanara. He'd nod to the latter, shake the former's hand if it was extended, and then allow Talyara to lead him out of the building. Once they located the previously discarded doll, he'd give its noise-making section a little squeeze of his left hand. Super-human strength silenced the trinket for good. The reanimated corpse drew his eye and completely killed his good mood as he tracked it - with his gaze - into the building, but since it seemed under control and not directed at harming others, he didn't return to the dwindling group. Rather, the warrior proceeded with his companion away from the establishment to find, mount, and fly home on his wyvern.

Leoxander looked like the bored uncle eagerly awaiting the end of a children’s music recital for the way he got to his feet at Lanara’s announcement, finishing off the last of that whiskey in a drink. They’d have to forgive his manners; he wasn’t quite there on par with acceptable social behavior, yet. Looking Tiber’s way and setting the glass down at his approach, his expression was still pretty stoic but it relaxed just a slight degree as the man extended his hand, and… well, what the hell. It was his nameday. Leo could afford to clasp that grasp in return in more of a contact of palms and brief link of thumbs than a proper handshake. “Yeah. I know. But my lady likes you for some reason.” That dry humor surfacing again. He looked back toward Krice and Talyara, raised a hand to the pair. Glanced at Shishi and touched the corner of his forehead above the shape of his brow with a click at the side of his mouth for a half assed and improper salute. Checked over Leralynn with a glance and a subtle wink to the teen with a faint nod, not in any means of flirtation but more a, ‘I’ll be seein’ you’ kind of farewell, since she had won her position on his crew. Finally he passed Lanara and while Lora likely hugged her farewell, he hovered to say quietly. “Not bad. He seems happy.” Another vague compliment as he extended his hand to Loravelle’s once she was ready to go.

Tiber watches everyone wave goodbye, and Leoxander is accepting his handshake. Loravelle likes him? He wants to twitch a smirk, but he gives the mousy fiance of Leo’s a knowing glance. Strings. Something they would have in common. Tiber pats the lycan. “Well, we’ll see for how long,” truth in their dynamic. “Safe travels.” Talyara then pulls Tiber and her into a strong hug. “Thanks, Talyara… We appreciate you. We want to see more of you and Krice.” He then smirks at the other Kelvarian before turning to Shishi who is giving his goodbyes. Tiber is sheepish with the scratch of his neck, but he becomes a lot calmer around the duelist from the night. Turns out, The Blue Demon is an average guy. Kinda. “Thank you. Also, Demon thanks you from afar, my Blue Doberman.” The Blue Demon Doberman. He looks at the teen agent who is budging her mysterious father along. “Enjoy the snacks!” Tiber then looks at Lana before Krice shows with his hand out. “Thank you Krice, for coming. You and Talyara need to visit us more,” more like things were evened out in Sage, right? No Franz… hopefully.

Tiber watches everyone wave goodbye, and Leoxander is accepting his handshake. Loravelle likes him? He wants to twitch a smirk, but he gives the mousy fiance of Leo’s a knowing glance. Strings. Something they would have in common. Tiber pats the lycan. “Well, we’ll see for how long,” truth in their dynamic. “Safe travels.” Talyara then pulls Tiber and her into a strong hug. “Thanks, Talyara… We appreciate you. We want to see more of you and Krice.” He then smirks at the other Kelvarian before turning to Shishi who is giving his goodbyes. Tiber is sheepish with the scratch of his neck, but he becomes a lot calmer around the duelist from the night. Turns out, The Blue Demon is an average guy. Kinda. “Thank you. Also, Demon thanks you from afar, my Blue Doberman.” The Blue Demon Doberman. He looks at the teen agent who is budging her mysterious father along. “Enjoy the snacks!” Tiber then looks at Lana before Krice shows with his hand out. “Thank you Krice, for coming. You and Talyara need to visit us more,” more like things were evened out in Sage, right? No Franz… hopefully.

Loravelle didn't want to accidentally drop the cake she's packed up to take home and stain Lanara's clothes so her hug for the witch is a quick, one-armed hug. “See you soon, take care!” The same had to be said for Tiber too, and she grins. He's got strings. He's a good guy. “Happy birthday.” She waves goodbye to Taly and Krice too, but sadly she must've missed Orange...Well, next time. With all those goodbyes squared away, her hand is in Leo's and she's ready to be dragged out.

Lanara gives everyone a hug goodbye, but she remembers to give Krice a curt nod and not force him into affection. She’s not sure why Tiber saw fit to throw cake on the floor but she quickly cleans that up before Gordyn throws a fit. Thankfully, between Loravelle and Leralynn, most of the three tier cake is packed up and leaving the building. At Leo’s compliment she feels her cheeks flush and she nods, “I hope so.” Making her husband happy is of utmost importance to the witch. As the last guest exits the room, she instructs Greyson and Tiber to carry the gifts while she briefly meets with the owner of the Destrier to pay their tab. She cannot help but smile as she recalls the look on Tiber’s face as he opened each present with anticipation, or the way his eyes lit up when he made his wish and blew out the candles. The couple heads home where another celebration awaits and the box tucked beneath her arm, from Alvina, has her thinking of the party for two she’s reserved for later in the night.