(1810) An Autumn Court

[Blackbird]

To the giant Blackbird offered a deep dip of her head, as had become her custom when engaging with Kindred of a higher social echelon in Court. Currently, insofar as she was concerned, that was everyone, save the newcomer Hugh, but her formality remained in place for all. A handful knew Blackbird was not always like this, but Court was something she took seriously. How was she supposed to get ahead without it after all?

"Good evening, Hierophant," she offered. A light caution skimmed along her friendlier tones.

Despite the Beast raging against its cage and howling for her leave - again, Blackbird felt a strange sense of relief with the arrival of the Seneschal. In light of her comments regarding the members of the Circle's lapse in respect - and the fact that both Heirophant and Acolyte were now near her, the neonate felt some comfort that a senior member of the Succubi was now in attendance. And this comfort showed on her face... once she silenced the beast yet again, of course. Considering her place, Vivian was afforded a greater amount of respect. Canting her head down in a show of submission, Blackbird granted the woman a curtsy, much as she had done with the Prince.

"Greetings, Seneschal York," she offered, keeping her voice kind, if subdued, "It has been too long." She would say nothing more, Davis had made a point to introduce a newcomer to Seneschal York and, considering her need to build new bridges in light of the recent... vacancy in her alliances, the neonate was not about to risk interrupting Vivian's official function. She had to save face. Nonetheless, the neonate briefly glanced up, meeting the Seneschal's face just for a moment. Her expression was analytical, as if wanting to say more, but, whatever it is, Blackbird seems to think better of it. Instead, she returns her attention to the greater conglomeration of Kindred.

Blackbird offered John a smile. "As we both well know, there is truth in your words, elder," she offered, referencing the Court of September. As Davis is now also interacting with Vivian, she chooses not to expand leaving him the opportunity to gain some favor in the Seneschal's eyes.

Hugh, however, had asked her details regarding the troubles. And Blackbird was not content to keep quiet on that point. Regardless of the fact he was a greater Beast, Hugh was new and Blackbird felt obligated to let him know exactly what he was getting into. Call it being a good neighbor...
"Eager Hunters," she says to the new Savage, "One is a local group known as the Bushwhackers, the other is regional known as the Tribulation Militia. Previously, they worked together to destroy a cell of the Brood, but they also seem quite aware that more Kindred reside in the city. There are currently plans on the table to deal with both, but I am uncertain what all I can say on the matter."

Blackbird was happy to stop there, she was certain Mable would discuss what regions Hugh should avoid in due time. It was not the neonate's place to mind the Gangrel and, with Mable's return, it felt unwise to coach him on the matter. Such a thing could be seen as offense. Then Mable called the Seneschal Priscus. Curious. A perplexed glint alighted Blackbird's face. Surely York once held the title, but now that title rested with Lina. A light blunder or a barely veiled insult? Regardless, Blackbird did not speak up to correct it. If the Seneschal felt it necessary to correct the slight she would, but it was not within Blackbird's station to do so.

"I am well enough, Priscus Wood," she said, her smile somewhat lessened as she analyzed the woman's features, "Thank you."

[Mable Wood]

Mable had returned to the little group forming around John. "Sorry to have rushed past before." She apologized to Hugh and John. "Mr. Keeping, I hope Mr. Davis has been keeping you entertained."

"Priscus York, how are you this evening?"

"Blackbird, hope you are well."

Then she looks at Krieg. She presses her lips together and closes her eyes. She counted to ten before opening her eyes. She started to speak then thought better of it. She forced air into her lungs and smiled, "Hierophant Krieg, have you met Hugh Keeping yet?"

Seriously tired Brain. I Meant Seneschal York Sorry please change wording!!!

[Aaron van Valen]

Soon after the Harpy enters Court, Aaron van Valen makes his entrance. He had sneaked into the club from the back. With no desire to bring more life to his features tonight, he had to avoid direct contact with Kine.

This is the one place where they can all be themselves. He would embrace that.

Had he chosen a flashy a Lordly display for the Formal Court, he is now back to his Dragon self: A nice shirt like always, yet now tucked under a deep blue jumper. A more scholarly look, if you will.

Here we go again.

A wave of Beasts bashed against a wall of his restraint. But Aaron would not break. Not even the one-eyed man would bring his composure down entirely. Had the new Beast been a threat, he is already surrounded. No need for bloodshed.

'Good evening everyone,' he says to the group that was forming, not caring to say everyone's name. With some exceptions. 'Harpy Simmons, good to see you.' He offers her a polite nod before turning to Vivian with a small bow, 'Seneschal York, I hope you are well.'

Then he walks past the group, passing the Prince and pausing for a respectful bow, 'Your Majesty.' However, he does not fully stop until reaching his friend Lina Moretti at her usual quiet spot. A playful smile appears as he speaks.

'Regent. You seem happy.'

[Alessandra]

Their discussion done, Ale watches Lina make her way to the coat check then return to her seat. A smile and nod.

She could make the announcement now, or do it when she unveiled the art. Which seemed like a better idea to her. And decided to give it a couple minutes.

So she makes her way to where the Kindred seemed to be gathering in a large group. Usually there were small groups of conversation going on by now. So this was new.

Noticing Vivian, and her Beast, Ale nods her head with a small smile. Her Beast still paced, wanting to rise up to the challenge and show it was more powerful.

A smile was offered to Rebecca, “Madam Harpy Simmons, good evening. That is a lovely shade of blue on you.” Her Beast thrashed against its cage bars, wanting out. Wanting to shred and steal the life from the Lord. But the smile remained.

Looking to the Kindred gathered, the smile didn’t budge, dark eyes observing each one. Before settling upon the new guy.

“I see we have a new face with us tonight.” Says the Italian. It wasn’t her place to introduce herself, time to see who would.

[Mable Wood]

Mable was about to do some formal introductions of Hugh when the Prince joined the group. She gave a little curtsy, and wondered where that came from because usually she just gave a head bow. Hmmm. Then she spoke up, "Your Grace, Seneschal York, Harpy Simmons, Blackbird..." Mable also nodded to the gentlemen who had already been introduced, "May I present Hugh Keeping clan Gangel. Mr. Keeping, this is the Prince, Alessandra Antinori, Seneschal York, Harpy Simmons, Blackbird, Hierophant Krieg, and Mr. Davis." Mable did a quick look around the group gathered here hoping she didn't miss anyone. "Ok, hopefully I have all titles correct? and didn't leave anyone out?" Mable glanced at Rebecca briefly hoping she did the etiquette thing correctly.