505-04-10 Community Center Grand Opening

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Community Gathering Room - Shelter - Plaza of the Keeper East - Village(#2523Rn) This huge room has several different areas, each for a specific activity. The floor is covered in terra cotta tile, a few throw rugs scattered about for comfort. One wall is made of glass, looking out onto a small garden. Torches line the other walls, and a huge black iron chandelier hangs from the center of the room. One corner of the room is set up with several square wooden tables and chairs,a variety of card and board games available on the shelving that adorns that wall. Another corner is obviously used by artisans, as easels, paints, clay, blocks of stone, molds, and other art supplies are strewn about, along with some works in progress. The third corner has been converted into a small library, stacks of books lining the walls, and several comfortable chairs available to sit in, lanterns on small tables beside the chairs. This area sits next to the window, as does the artists' section, to take advantage of the natural light. The fourth section of the room is for relaxation, with comfortable sofas and overstuffed chairs scattered about. While all of the furniture is obviously secondhand, it is clean and in good repair.

Obvious exits: Soup Kitchen <SK> Dormitory <D> Clinic Lobby <CL>

The community center has not been decorated, as Bella wants people to see it as it will usually be when open for business. However, there are a few extras -- food piled up on a buffet table in the dining room, a booth set up in the gathering room with a sign that says "Kissing for donations". There are is a band in one corner, and some performers who wander around the room -- jugglers, dancers, and one person set up in another corner offering face painting.

Bella is putting out the last dish onto the buffet, and looking about to make sure everything is in order for the party. She's wearing the gown that Margeaux gifted her with just the other day, and she does look wonderful in it.

Margeaux looks up to Bella and beams happily. "Ah, I am very 'appy!" Margeaux says, looking to Bella as she approaches her to give the woman a kiss on each cheek. "You are wearing it, oui!" She beams.

Phineas guides Margeaux into the room, looking about with interest. The food on the table wins a longer glance and a growl from his untended-to stomach. "Nice," he says, to nobody in particular. "There's Bella." First off, he heads toward her, guiding Margeaux along.

Phaeton looks around the center, smiling as he takes in the array of performers and others, "My, looking most nice, I'm sure everyone'll appreciate the effort!" He walks towards Bella, grinning widely as he presents her with a small handful of roses, "Hello, love! You look utterly ravishing, I'm sure I'll be the envy of every man here."

Bella smiles warmly as she sees Phineas and Margeaux enter the room. "Welcome!" she says, giving each a warm hug. "I'm so glad you could make it." And when Phaeton walks over, she just glows as she sees him. She accepts the roses with a bright smile, and then gives him a close hug and a warm kiss. "Darling, I'm so glad you could make it. Have you met Margeaux?"

Phineas squeezes Bella tightly for the hug before stepping back. "I'm gettin' some food," he tells the group as introductions proceed, taking the time to go examine the buffet.

Bartholemew wanders in on the heels of a group of well wishers, pausing behind them to take in the Community Centre in all its newness and glory - such as it is. He seems content to stay aback of the crowd (for the moment), nodding in a friendly manner to some who have caught his eye with curiosity in theirs. Even a slight bow here and there where warranted.

Phaeton grins widely and inclines his head, "Indeed we have, although it is always nice to renew an acquaintance." He winks at Bella and slides a casual arm around her waist, "You didn't think I'd miss your grand opening, did you dear? Perish the thought!" He nods at Phineas then and chuckles, "Looks pretty good, I'll head over myself shortly."

Bella smiles warmly at others who arrive, and takes a sniff of the roses Phaeton gave her. She says, "I knew you'd be here," to Phaeton, with a warm smile. "Please, help yourselves to some food and drink. I know how you and Phineas have bottomless pits for stomachs." She gives him a playful grin, before turning to Margeaux. "I was hoping you would volunteer," she says, "I think you'd make the center a lot of money."

It is with a group of three knights and a Squire that the Empress makes her late entrance to the party, a smile coming to her features to see the people gathered here already. "Good evening, all."

Margeaux's cheeks turn a soft pink at that. "I do 'ope so, oui?" She offers, beaming at Bella before she turns back to Phaeton. "It is good to see you again, oui?" Her eyes flick to the door when Mena approaches. "Aha, Allo Majesty."

Drusilla stands near the Empress, her dark gaze sweeping the room carefully, each person given a critical look before she moves to the next.

Phaeton laughs and nods at Bella, "It's true, Forester men can eat their way through half a barony before they're full." He winks and looks around, before giving a wave towards the Empress, "Great to see you here, Mena!" His arm is casually around Bella's waist as people come in, and he grins at Margeaux, "I'm sure you'll be in much demand."

Bartholemew makes his way to the buffet tables, but not before directing a deep bow the Empress' way, paying his respects.

Bella smiles brightly when she sees the Empress arrive. "Your Majesty!" she says, as she makes her way over to Mena, tugging Phaeton along if necessary. "Thank you so much for your donation to the shelter. It will help so many people," she says, "And, if you want to help raise more money, perhaps you'll take a round in the kissing booth?" She gives Mena a playful grin. "It's for a good cause, you know."

More commoners come in, eyes big and faces curious about the new shelter that is to help them. The band starts to play some dance music, and several couples start to dance near the band. A couple of men look at the kissing booth, and poke each other with their elbows and grin. "Now this is the way to party!" one says, "Wonder who'll be in there first?"

"Ah, do you think I should come over there mm?" Margeaux indicates the kissing booth as she looks to Bella. "I do wish to make sure that I can make you enough money."

Mena chuckles and shakes her head. "Oh, no. No kissing booth for me. "

Drusilla looks about as kissable as a cactus, plus she's in uniform and on duty. No kissing for her.

Bella giggles at Margeaux's comment. "You can start whenever you like, Margeaux. Be sure to let them know they have to donate to get a kiss," she says. When Mena declines, Bella looks a bit disappointed. "That's too bad, Majesty. It would be great publicity for the shelter," she says, "But I understand. Please, come have something to eat. You know, I saw Prince Jordan the other day, he is growing up so fast."

A soft laugh comes to her throat at that before she looks to Bella and she nods. She moves over to the kissing booth before she looks over at those in attendance. "You 'ave to donate to get a kiss. No copper, I would like to see silver to kiss someone from outside of the barrier, oui? From Pais de Leuvier."

Phaeton chuckles as Bella guides him over towards the booth, and nods, "Indeed, as is Sher. Our lads'll be toddling about soon enough as well, and then all hell'll break loose I imagine." He grins teasingly, "Foresters children can be rather rambunctious. May have to trade the Nanny for a team of well-trained guards."

"Oh my goodness, isn't he?" Mena replies to Bella with a shake of her head. "I just cannot believe it. Almost four years old already? It seems... well. It depends on the day," she ends with a chuckle.

The men who have gathered around the booth look pleasantly surprised at the exotic lady who enters it. "And you said it would be Fanny the barmaid!" one guy says to another. However, while the men are debating on who gets to go first, a young boy slips through, unnoticed, and goes up to the booth. "I got a tin," he says, putting it on the counter. "it's all I got, Lady. Can I have a kiss, please?"

Bartholemew seems to be at th e crux of indecision. Standing at the buffet table, his interest seems more upon the Empress and her entourage than on the food before him. In an act he might not be able to explain to himself later, he forgoes the tables to join at the small gathering of folk paying their respects at her feet, and when his turn comes, bows deeply to Mena. "Majesty."

Bella smiles warmly at Phaeton, and says, "Well, the twins are already crawling all over the place. So I'm sure it will only be a few months before we are running after them." She smiles at Mena, and says, "How are the triplets doing? I am such a bad aunt, I really should make time to visit my nieces and nephews. I rarely get to see Phineas' and Aileana's children, either." When Bartholemew finally comes over, she gives him a smile. "Welcome to the center," she says, "I hope you enjoy the party."

"All of the children are fine," Mena answers Bella with a smile, though her attention is drawn to the approach of Bartholemew. "Good evening to you," she offers with a friendly smile. "I do not believe we have met?"

"Of course." Margeaux gives the young one a warm, beauteous smile. "From vous, it is the thought oui?" She leans over and places a sweet kiss on each of his cheeks before giving him a small peck on the lips. "You can 'av three."

Bartholemew's lips quirk over a smallness of smile, one that is more in his eyes. "Nay, we've not met. I'm Bartholemew Batemen. Cousin to the Duchess Guardian. A pleasure to meet you.. and.." he gestures to the entourage.

A fifth knight does enter the hall, slowly roaming the rooms perimeter.

Mena smiles and inclines her head to Bartholemew. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Master Batemen. Have you just recently arrived on Gateway, then?"

The little boy's eyes light up as Margeaux gives him THREE kisses! He blushes brightly at the kiss on the lips. Hey, he's only about 6 years old. "Thank you, Lady!" he says, walking away with a dreamy smile. Some of the men have formed a ragged line in front of the booth, and the next steps up. While the first was very young, this one is very old. He's probably 75, if he's a day. He plunks down a silver on the counter. "Now, missy, pucker up," he says, as he leans forward, close enough so Margeaux can notice his missing teeth. At least he doesn't smell too badly.

Bella gives Barhtolemew a warm smile, and says, "I'm Baroness Bella Forester," she says, "And this is my husband, Baron Phaeton Forester. I run the clinic and the shelter. Thank you so much for coming."

This sight causes Margeaux to give a small waning smile. "I 'ope to no cause a 'eart attack, oui?" Margeaux takes the silver and puts it in the collection tin before she leans over and places a soft, but just as brief peck upon the old man's lips. "there you are." She offers, beaming a smile at him.

The place is getting a bit louder now. Besides the band playing, the men lining up to kiss Margeaux in the kissing booth, and people standing around conversing and eating from the buffet, there's shrieks of laughter from the children as a stage magician has appeared, doing simple parlor tricks to entertain them.

Bartholemew's slight smile blossoms to fullness, as he nods to Mena. "Aye, I've only just arrived this past fortnight. I'm still finding my feet so to speak." He gives a slight bow to Bella. "Well met. You've done a lovely service to the people with this clinic. Will all the services be free?"

Phaeton grins at Bartholemew and gives a friendly wave, "Nice to meet you! And please, do join the line if you want a kiss from Miss Margeaux.. you might want to get in early or I imagine the line will grow enormous." He watches the booth and chuckles at both the child and the aged man, shaking his head as he watches the dreamy boy wander off, "He's going to be remembering >that< for a while. Wouldn't be too surprised if he starts taking runs at haylofts a bit early after that."

The old man looks a wee bit disappointed at the quick peck on the lips. "Should have paid a gold," he mutters, as he walks away. The next man is considerably younger, in his prime. He looks like he could be a blacksmith, with all those muscles. He's got a toothy grin (with all his teeth intact!). He plunks down two silvers, then goes to grab Margeaux by the upper arms, to pull her close to him and give her a long, passionate kiss, if he can.

Better late than never, as Khalani said. Arriving at the community center, arm to hand with the Baroness Amphorae, Mathis arches a brow at the way the party is going at the moment and then grins warmly and widely as he tips his head to Khalani. "Think we can spot the Baroness in this crowd, or will we have to find the high ground?" he asks with a playfulness in his tone as he picks at the shared height deficiency the two seem to have.

"Welcome to Gateway then, Master Batemen," Mena says to Bartholemew, then lifts a hand to wave to the arriving Khalani and Mathis.

Margeaux's squeak comes as she's suddenly reached for and her hands quickly intercept his and she twines her fingers in his. "Ah, no grabbin' oui? You'll make the others Jealous." She leans in now and gives him a soft, lingering kiss to his lips as her hands squeeze his own. "There, oui? Good." she takes a step back and lets her fingers slide from his grasp.

Bartholemew's bow moves to include Phaeton, "Aye. I should at that." He reaches to his side fingering a pocket for coinage. "A silver I think she said?" He ponders, and excuses himself to go stand in line.

Aileana does show up even if she's a little late, a smile on her lips as she drops into a curtsy upon spying Mena, "Good evening. I'm so sorry that I'm tardy."

Bella gives Bartholemew a smile, and says, "Yes, all the services here are free. Which is why we are asking for donations. I hope your Duchess would consider becoming a patron." As more people enter, she detaches herself from Phaeton, giving him a warm kiss. "I have to go play hostess, darling," she says, "Keep our new friend entertained, will you?" She glances over at Margeaux, just to see the guy grab her. Frowning, she gets her guards' attention, and motions to the booth. One goes over, to stand near Margeaux. "The lady's right, no touchin'," he says, in a gruff voice, "On order of the Baroness." Bella then goes through the crowd, to find Mathis and Khalani. "Oh, I'm so glad you two could make it!" she says, "I think Margeaux might be getting tired of the kissing booth. Either of you want to take a turn in it?"

Phaeton watches the blacksmith being foiled and laughs before winking at Bella, "Reckon I might be taking a leaf out of the lad's book with you, darling." He grins and then looks at Aileana before giving a wave, "Alley! Come and join the party, everything's lovely." As more enter, he beams at them each in turn, "Good to see you both too! And Lord Garett as well, how lovely!"

A cheerful whistle pierces the air and eventually dwindles down as Solphin seems to be doing a limbo backwards to read the sign that hangs over the archway. Slowly a grin spreads across her features, contorting that tune further and so much so that she simply stops with it. "Accoucheur-Greyson. That mangled cur actually /does/ do something with his time." Speaking to herself idly and in good spirits tonight, eyes shining and the whole ten yards with that peculiarly warm smile. Weaving through the masses, dropping bows and nods around to those who needed it, or didn't, it hardly mattered. The woman was almost immediately drawn toward the giant glass window overlooking the garden, her guards lingering behind at the arch.

There's a light bit of laughter from Khalani to Mathis as they arrive. "We should get a stool to stand on and spot things." She does spot a Duchess, and from there to the Empress. A curtsey to both, deferential before she's got Bella spotting them. A blink of her eyes and a little giggle. "A. kissing booth?" She looks sidelong to Mathis and gives him a nudge. "You should.. after all, it's been a beautiful woman for the last little while, clearly equal opportunity says it's your turn."

Mena inclines her head to those paying their respects, smiling at Aileana as she arrives. "Yes, better late than never. How are you feeling?"

"Are there none of noble birth willing to donate for a kiss, oui?" Margeaux asks as she pulls herself away from the handsome young man. "Afraid of a little Pais woman?"

Bowing politely to Mena, Mathis manages a quick, "Good evening, Your Majesty, Your Grace." he says, adding in Aileana quickly, as Bella approaches. He happened to see the same scene that Bella did, so as she asks her question, the young man smiles. "Sorry, Your Excellency, but we were only going to be here briefly." he says, before smirking at Khalani. "No, that's quite alright." he says quickly and honestly. "I'm sure there are much more handsome choices for you to use, Baroness." he comments with a warm grin.

The young man laughs merrily at Margeaux's quick response. "You've got spirit, girly," he says to her, plunking another silver down. "Naw, you don't have to kiss me again. That's extra, for doing the first one so good." Now, it seems, that Bartholemew has worked his way up to be the next in line, as the young blacksmith leaves to find a wench to dance with.

Aileana lifts her shoulders in a small shrug now, "Just tired today for some reason, but I'm sure that will pass soon enough."

Drusilla stands near the Mena, her dark, critical gaze on anyone who approaches the Empress.

Bartholemew's slender fingers couch a silver - it seems his pockets held the right coinage after all. He gives Margeaux a smile, holding out the silver, "Yours, I believe?"

"Thought I'd at least come for a short time." Replied to Phaeton as he enters under the archway with a nod of his head, Garett had no problem finding his way. It's the mingling and noting those faces he's familiar with that takes a bit of a pause before what may be a necessary bow given to those higher ranked. Notably the Empress.

Bella smiles warmly at Aileana, giving her a curtsey. "Your Grace," she says, "I'm so glad you could attend." At the mention of tiredness, the baroness suddenly looks serious. "Do you need some herbal remedies, Your Grace, to help you feel more energetic? I'd be glad to administer some for you. Perfectly safe for pregnancy, of course."

Aileana just shakes her head now, "No, I'm sure I'll be fine, really. " Her gaze slides over this place and she just smiles, "This is wonderful."

Mena nods to Aileana. "I'm sure that part will be over soon, and then you'll be tired for a completely different reason." She gives Garett a graceful wave as she watches the people.

Margeaux reaches out and takes the coins and places them all in a nice container for the benefits. "Oui." She looks down at the young man and smiles at him. She leans over and slides her fingers across the young man's cheek before she places those soft, full lips against his own in a gentle if slightly chaste kiss. She pulls back just an inch, whispering. "Was it worth it, oui?"

Noticing Garett, Mathis bows his head. "Baron Consort." he greets properly as he does indeed back up a little. Perhaps in a little bit of apprehension as he rises back up to his full height and grins at Khalani before his eyes pan over the crowd again.

Bartholemew isn't one to shirk the responsibilities of a gentleman. To Margeaux's whisper, his reply comes from that same inch away from her lips, "Aye, worth every copper. Maybe we'll meet again - when you aren't selling your kisses."

Khalani drifts over towards the kitchen, her curiosity sending her to explore a little further afield than the main room proper. She taps Mathis on the arm. "Shall we have a look around?" She nods her way towards the soup kitchen.

Mathis nods to Khalani. "Yes, let's wander." he says with a grin, shooting Bella a grin.

Solphin pushes her hands down her front, as if searching for pockets that didn't exist in her skirt. Alarm! Someone's stolen her pocke--oh wait, she calms when she realizes that they're simply not there anymore. Definitely part of the background for now, that low whistling begins again as she walks along the glass wall, watching the spring take over in the garden outside. Her hands eventually come together, finding something to do as fingers start to spin the ring around her thumb. Walking along, she spots Lani and Mathis, a hand parting to raise in a friendly wave and wink toward the Baroness, but not enough to try and distract the pair.

Margeaux smiles as she pulls those lips and those fingers away from Bartholemew's face before she nods. "We may indeed." She looks towards the main gathering and spotting Aileana, she turns towards her and gives her a wave.

Bella smiles warmly at Aileana's compliment. "Thank you, Your Grace," she says, "I hope to help many people here. And Her Majesty has made a very generous donation, of food from the palace, every day." She then notices Solphin coming into the room, and waves to her. "Solphin! I'm so glad you could come," she says. Turning to the Empress and Duchess, she says, "Pardon me, but I need to greet some more of the guests."

Mena inclines her head to Bella. "Of course, Excellency. Go be a hostess, we are fine over here."

Khalani gives a little wave in Solphin's direction as she and Mathis head for the soup kitchen.

Solphin's whistling stops again, a sun-in-summer brilliant smile overtaking her features as the hand formerly waving to the younger duo near the soup kitchen swings its happy way over to Bella. Her steps linger that way as well, turning from the window/wall. "Bella, things are looking /amazing/, ah you must be so proud." she gushed with an animated spread of her hands.

Garett doesn't seem to have enough time to say much to Mathis before he and Khalani depart. Left with a bit of bemusement, he nods towards the Empress before taking a look around the room in somewhat thought. All to give Bella more time to circulate before heading towards the baroness.

"Excellent." Aileana replies as she smiles to Mena and then Bella, "This is really just so wonderful, really. People have a place to come if they are in need." She sighs with contentment now.

Bella smiles warmly at Solphin, and says, "Remember, you promised to help." She looks over to the kissing booth, to see how Margeaux is doing. Seems the men are being dragged away by their wives or girlfriends to dance, except for a few single men who remain in line. Turning to Phaeton, she says, "You're supposed to be setting an example, Phaeton. Go give Margeaux a few gold and kiss her, will you?"

"It truly is an amazing thing," Mena agrees with Aileana, looking around at the crowd as well. "It is very good to see something like this opened."

Phaeton laughs at that and gently detaches himself from Bella then, "Since you ask so nicely, love, I'll do that very thing. You should take your turn in the booth also, though!" He winks and plants a soft kiss on his wife's lips before moving towards Margeaux as he hunts for his money pouch.

Solphin chuckles and bounces up onto her toes, index finger raised up to tick tock back and forth. "Oh I remember. I wouldn't forget something like that in one hundred years." Her smile turned humored with a bit of quirky intent. "Now catch me in one hundred and one and my memory might have slipped it. But I'm going to look around and let you mingle a little. A hostess' job is never done, or so I'm told." Which is of course a polite way to meander off curiously.

Bella gives Solphin a warm smile, and then finally finds her way to Garett. "Lord Lytton," she says, "How wonderful to see you here. I hope you're enjoying yourself?"

Margeaux beams as the line moves along, being kind and accommodating to each young single lad that comes along until Phaeton approaches. "Ah, Baron Forester. It is good to see you, oui?" She offers, beaming at him. "'ave you come to give me a kiss?"

Bella grins at Phaeton's comment that she should get in the kissing booth. "Well, since I have my husband's permission, I will when Margeaux needs a break," she says.

Aileana looks towards some of the chairs and then walks over to take a seat, brushing a hand over her swollen stomach as she does. For now, her attention is on the others and what they do.

Several young single men leave the kissing booth with big grins on their faces, after Margeaux gives them each a kiss. It must be true, what they say about those Outer Barrier women. The band takes a break for a few minutes, but the stage magician that is entertaining the children seems tireless. "See this, my young lads and ladies?" he says, rolling up his sleeves. "Nothing there, and nothing here. Now watch!" He flips up his hands, and a dove appears. There is lots of ooohing and ahhhing from the young, impressionable audience.

"Baroness." Spoken to Bella with a hint of a grin tugging into place, Garett tilts his head to one side in order to indicate the room at large. "I thought that either Baroness Phoebe or I should at least pay a visit. Obviously, it fell to me. Though, it looks as if there's a good turn out.'

Mena moves over to sit near Aileana, watching the people mingle before her as well. "So, I go an interesting delivery yesterday."

Mouse heads into the party late unfortunately, but at least he makes it. He stops by the entrance and looks over the room from that safe vantage point before stepping deeper into the melee.

"What kind of delivery?" Aileana asks now, her brows rising with interest as the conversation starts with the Empress. She leans forward the slightest bit now.

Bella smiles warmly at Garett's words. "Thank you, Garett, it is so nice of you to come," she says, "And I do hope you think about donating or volunteering. We can use all the supplies and people to help that we can." A movement towards the door grabs her attention, and she smiles as she sees Mouse. She stands on her tiptoes and waves to him above the crowd.

Bartholemew moves away from the kissing booth, sidestepping several well meaning ladies who look to want to pull the young man out on the dance floor. He barely escapes when the band takes its break. He gives the nearest lady a nod, excusing himself to wander the crowd, moving inexorably closer to the buffet table.

Phaeton gives a small bow to Margeaux, and nods his head, placing three golden coins upon the booth, "I have indeed, as I have permission from my good Lady Wife." He winks, "Wouldn't do to upset her, of course." Then the Baron leans forward to give Margeaux a brief but warm kiss to the lips if permitted, before leaning back, "You have many admirers tonight, it seems!"

Margeaux laughs a bit at that before she takes the golden coins. "You are very kind, oui." Margeaux says as she places those coins into the collection tin. She moves over and gives the Baron a warm, comforting hug. "See if you can get any of the other nobles to volunteer, oui?" That's whispered to him.

Garett nods in agreement and notes before she moves away, "I shall see what donations will be more suited. Until then, I think that I'll wander about to get ideas."

Mouse spots Bella waving in his direction then he sets off across the room towards her. As he approaches he drops into a bow, "Baroness Emerald Hollow. A pleasure to see you, and to see your shelter having such a successful party."

Bella nods in agreement to Garett, and says, "Oh yes, please, wander around all you like. And don't forget to get some food, the chef of the Ocean View volunteered for the party and outdid himself." When Mouse approaches, she gives him a smile. "Nice to see you, Mouse. Come in, have some food, enjoy yourself. I didn't forget you agreed to volunteer at the center sometime, too, you know. I've made a list." She gives him a playful wink. "Oh, and don't forget to take advantage of the kissing booth."

Empress Mena leans closer to Aileana, her voice lowering just a bit. She mutters to Duchess Aileana, "... a... from... asking... my... and a..."

Aileana blinks at that now, "Really?" And then she settles to silence, shaking her head a bit now, "You know, I wish I could just trust that for what it is."

"Me too," Mena says with a sigh and a shake of her head. "I don't know what to do about it. Old wounds."

Bartholemew hovers near the buffet table, without filling a plate. His gaze wanders about the room, stopping for a moment upon Drusilla.

Passing out of the Soup Kitchen and heading towards the Dormitory, Mathis seems to be leading Khalani on the grand tour. "I still bet the soup they make here will be better than anything I could think of cooking up." he says teasingly as he leads her towards the Dormitory.

Aileana just presses her lips together for a moment, considering it as she lifts her shoulders in a shrug, "She probably wants something from you, but...I don't know. Maybe have ale with her and see what she...says?"

Mouse watches Garett depart then turns to Bella, "Oh. Well. Of course Your Ladyship. I'll be sure to do that. And I gave my word I'd be helping out, so you can count on it. Just let me know if there's anything I can do around the place." Looking to the kissing booth he grunts, "Uh...looks busy. I'll check on the food."

Empress Mena gives a shake of her head, her voice quieting again as she continues to speak with Duchess Green Fields. She mutters to Duchess Aileana, "I... I... anything... know... how... false... what... wants.... wants..."

Now that the band has taken a break, more of the men wander back to the kissing booth. The next man up looks rather refined and educated, and well-dressed. He places a gold on the counter, and gives Margeaux a warm smile. "I do not deserve a kiss from such a beautiful lady," he says in a smooth voice, "But for the good of the community, I am honored to get one from you, lass."

"If it was your mother cooking, people'd never leave.. just for the food." Khalani quips to Mathis as the pair move from room to room on a tour. "This is the dormitory, yes?" She steps into it, glancing behind to see if anyone else is joining them on exploring.

"Ah, oui." Margeaux takes the coin and puts it in the basket and she leans over and places a soft, tender kiss on his lips. "If you are donating this much." She murmurs. "You do deserve that, oui?" She offers.

Bartholemew's gaze isn't long distracted. Or rather he's distracted from his perusal of the room with another thought. With some deliberation he takes up a plate and begins to fill it with this tidbit and that from the table - careful to only take a small bite of anything that looks tasty (which covers a lot of ground!). He smiles to himself as he does so. Clearly pleased with himself, which for a Guardian isn't saying much!

Bella smiles at Mouse, and then looks to the booth again. "She is rather popular," she says, "Maybe the crowd will die down once I get in the booth." She walks with Mouse, towards the buffet. "You mind if I join you? I'm famished, I haven't eaten all day, getting ready for this party."

Aileana just blinks now, her mouth dropping open a bit before she shakes her head firmly, "No way." She then shivers a bit, "That makes me want to go out and have an ale."

"I'm sure mother would love to do that, but father needs her to keep up with the books. Plus, to help with the project I asked them to assist with." Mathis comments, walking with the young woman.

The stately man bows to Margeaux after the kiss. "I thank you, My Lady," he says, as he wanders off to get some ale. The next man up is quite a bit coarser, and smirks at the beautiful woman. "Let's see if you can kiss better'n Rosie down at the Dockside Tavern," he says, plunking down a silver.

"Tell me about it," Mena answers Aileana with a chuckle and shake of her head. "But... just another day in the life of the Empress, I suppose. Really, it all depends on Nix."

Mouse shakes his head as he walks towards the food. He picks up a plate and begins walking the buffet, "It is your party Your Excellency. I am sure you can go wherever you want. But if you've not eaten all day, I do think the buffet is a good choice. And everything looks great. You've done a wonderful job on the shelter and on the party."

Bartholemew finishes filling the plate at hand and fills a glass with punch. Bart and his plate weave their way through the crowd. More than one young woman casts the young man a hopeful glance, but his attention is fixed upon another. It's without incident that he arrives at the kissing booth, moving his way past the line to Margeaux's side. Holding his offerings out he informs her, "I thought you might be ready for a break?" Much to the disappointment of those waiting for their turn at her lovely lips.

Aileana shakes her head at that, "Well, I could find a Fielder for him, I'm sure." She then sighs, "Just another day, yes."

Bella makes her way to the buffet, and starts to fill a plate. "Thank you, Mouse," she says, "I am excited about having it open fulltime and seeing what I can do to help people." She glances over at the kissing booth, and seeing Bartholemew go over with a plate, she says, "I might need to relieve Margeaux soon."

Margeaux gives a soft laugh as she takes the plate from Bartholemew. "Thank vous." She offers, her smile fond before she looks to the young men. "I will be back, oui?" She offers, turning back to Bartholemew. "Thank you, oui." She winks at him

"I don't see...," Mena starts, then stops and shakes her head. "Ahh.. nevermind it. When are you going to have this baby, here?"

Bartholemew leans in at Margeaux's wink. "I suppose I could take your place, though I think these gentlemen would be rather disappointed. So might the hostess - I'm not sure I'd bring in as much money as you!"

Bella does get to take a few bites of her food, before she sees Margeaux taking a break. "Ah, duty calls," she says, giving Mouse a warm smile. "The kissing booth is raising donations for the shelter, you know. Margeaux was really raking it in. I guess I'll have to see if I can do as well."

Aileana looks down at her stomach and chuckles, "Not too long now. July." She just sighs again, "I wonder how long it will be before I end up with another one after this one."

Margeaux looks over to Bella. "You are the most lovely woman I 'ave seen, Bella." She tells her. "You are a Baroness as well, oui?"

"Well, I would hope enough time for you to catch up and take some time off," Mena says with a smile. "You deserve it."

Mouse takes a bite of his food then says to Bella, "Oh. Well. I'll uh...give a donation. And I'm sure you'll raise good donations as well." He nods to Margeaux's comments, "You see Your Excellency?"

Bella blushes a bit at Margeaux's comments. Nodding to Mouse, she says, "Then I'll see you over there," as the Baroness makes her way to the kissing booth. Standing behind the counter, she says, "You did a great job, Margeaux, thank you. Go enjoy the party with Bartholemew."

Bartholemew gives Bella a small, almost mocking bow. "As you wish, Baroness.." He turns to Margeaux. "It seems my services won't be needed at the kissing booth. Would you care to sit while you eat?"

Stepping out of the dormitory, Mathis looks around, trying to see if he can spot Bella in the crowd of humanity.

Bella takes her place in the booth. Immediately, a few people drift away who were standing in line. A few couples can be overheard discussing the change at the booth... "You can't kiss HER... she's my midwife, Harvey!" Another says, "But she's my Baroness! I just couldn't!" Oops, might not have been a good decision for Bella to staff the kissing booth.

Aileana laughs now, "I would like to think that as well, but..you know, we have a hard time keeping....not pregnant." She then does look to Margeaux, chuckling, "You love this, don't you?"

The relatively placid air of the community gathering room stirs to life, a breeze wending through the venue with teasing tendrils of air. The garments of the Empress shift slightly in the wind.

Khalani spots Bella and there's a laugh and she tugs at Mathis' arm to head over to the kissing booth. "I think you're going to have to give up a kiss before we make our good byes, Mat." Her voice is teasing.

The band begins to play, to cover up some of the conversations overheard, perhaps. Or just, they are back from their break. Immediately, couples start to dance again. The children are now being entertained by a pair of jugglers, although the smaller children are being taken into the dorm room, to be put to bed.

Mena smiles a bit, the expression a wistful one as the air stirs about her. For a moment, her thoughts are clearly elsewhere.

Margeaux moves over to sit near Aileana and motions for Bart to sit next to her. "Ah, I love what Duchess?" She asks her friend, before she gives a small sigh. "A moment, oui?" She hands her plate to Bart and stands and moves over to Bella, winding her way through the line. She reaches into the folds of her dress and she pulls out a small, platinum piece. "This is for vous." She places it on the counter, before she leans over to give Bella a kiss on each cheek.

"W-what?" Mathis squawks in mild protest to Khalani's tease. "I didn't bring my money pouch with me." he says with a dry tone as he notices the stir in the air. He's silent for a moment, before going back to walking with Khalani. "You have a great place, Your Excellency." he says with a grin. "You should be very proud. Hi, Miss Margeaux."

Mouse watches Bella head over to man the booth. He frowns as people leave it, then he works his face through a few contortions before taking a gulp of his drink and heading over to her. "So...uh..." He reaches for his belt, then sees a platinum piece donated by Margeaux and he grimaces and picks up a piece of food and pops it into his mouth.

Bartholemew follows Margeaux to sit next to her and Aileana who he gives a slight bow to before taking his seat. He's barely had time to place his butt down when Margeaux is thrusting her plate at him. Bemused he takes it up, again, and holds it for her while she goes to give Bella a kiss - which draws a chuckle from the young man.

"Getting to kiss people." Aileana replies cheerfully as her gaze shifts to Bartholemew though her gaze goes to Mena with the stirring of the breeze, her eyes starting to get teary, "It's so sweet."

Bella's eyes widen as she sees Margeaux coming up to the counter. "No, Margeaux, really," she says, before she is abruptly kissed on both cheeks. She blushes brightly, and a few people in the crowd gasp. Immediately, there's hushed whispers among people who witness the Outer Barriers woman kissing the Baroness... another woman! In a kissing booth! When Mathis comes to greet her, she regains her composure, and gives Margeaux a smile as she places the platinum in the donation tin. "Thank you," she says, bashfully, to Margeaux, "I think you left a young man pining for you, my friend." Turning to Mathis, she smiles at him, and says, "It has come out a lot better than I had even hoped."

Margeaux turns her attention back to Mouse and Mathis. "Do give 'er kisses and make 'er feel like a lovely woman." Margeaux says to the two men before she turns back to her plate, the Duchess and young Bartholemew.

Mena's gaze moves to Aileana again and smiles a bit. "I suppose it is. Well," she says, then starts to get to her feet. "I think it's time I got home. I promised the kids I would tuck them in myself tonight."

Bartholemew waits for Margeaux to settle herself down again before handing her plate back to her. "That was... interesting," he tells her. "I think you've fueled a few gossip's ears, though."

"Give them an extra hug for me. Do you want me to walk with you?" Aileana asks with concern.

Mouse digs into his purse after the naughty kiss from Margeaux has gotten its gasps. He turns to Margeaux as he does so, "Yes Your Ambassadorship. That's a good idea I reckon." He roots around and comes up with a gold coin, which he polishes on his kilt before offering it to Bella. "If Your Excellency would be so kind."

Khalani smiles to Bella. "Excellency.. it's lovely, and I'm sure it'll do well by the community. You should be proud." She gives Mathis a little nudge with her shoulder, and a smile.

Mena shakes her head. "No, no. Stay a bit. I have my escort." And how she does, the group of knights ready to follow her out of the gathering. She lifts her hand to give a wave to the people still here. "Good evening, all!" And then she heads toward the exit herself.

Well, it's a good thing that Margeaux made that outrageous donation, because after that display, the men that WERE standing in line, get out of the line. Either they were intimidated by the size of the donation, or didn't approve of the lesbian kiss. Bella tries not to look upset about it, but she's never been one that's able to hide her feelings well. But there is one man left, and it's Mouse. When he offers her a gold coin, she smiles at him gratefully. "Of course, Mouse," she says. Then she leans forward, wrapping her arms around his broad shoulders, and starts to kiss him with her full, dark lips. It's quite a romantic, lingering kiss. Perhaps to prove she likes men, and quell some rumors?

After Mouse, Mathis is next, nudged by the Baroness Amphorae. The young man gawps at the kisses that Bella seems to be dealing out, and he just drops his coin on the tin. "Nothing needed in return. Gr-Great place. Night!"

And yet another Fielder has turned up in support of the clinic's opening. Saxon pushes her way carefully through the crowd, a large box tucked beneath one arm. With the market having now packed up for the day, she has finally found the time to wander over.

Margeaux looks rather disappointed at the men before she frowns and gets back up, passing the plate back to Bart again. "Excuse-moi." She offers, looking to the band leader and looks to the men. "Are you men of these isles or are you children? You 'ave one of the most beautiful women of all the lands 'ere." She motions to the woman. "And you are scared because I kissed 'er on 'er cheek. IT is my way of greeting a friend, oui? I am no from 'ere and do no know your customs, so do not 'old it against the lovely Baroness or the people that you will 'urt with your lack of donations. I am very disappointed. If we were in Pais, there would be men lining up outside to simply gaze upon Baroness Bella."

Mouse was leaning in for a quick peck. When he gets a knock his socks off kiss his head turns deep red and his ears put off enough heat that if he had hair, it might have been in danger of bursting into flame. He looks to be frozen in place, and perhaps he has even stopped breathing. His eyes however, are as large as saucers.

A young male voice is heard from the crowd when Margeaux addresses them, "Kiss her again! That was hot!"

Aileana nods and rises to curtsey to Mena as she heads out, "Good evening." And then she looks to Bartholemew, "We haven't met."

Bartholemew looks more than a little lost at the plate being thrust into his hand's again. But, being a gentleman (as much as any young man of Guardian /can/ be a gentleman), he holds the plate and smiles weakly at Margeaux lights into the crowd for their... uncomfortableness at her kissing of Bella.

Bella pulls back from her kiss with Mouse, just in time to hear Margeaux admonish the crowd. She winces as she hears the woman's words. "No, Margeaux, really, it's alright," she says, "Anyone who cares to make a donation can, they don't have to kiss anyone they don't want to." Noticing that Mouse is frozen in place with those saucer eyes, she gently taps him on the cheek. "Come on Mouse, it wasn't that bad," she says.

"I think you may have stunned him, Excellency." Khalani quips to Bella with a wink. "Good night, it's a lovely centre."

Bella giggles at Khalani's comment. "I might have," she says, "Good night, Khalani. Mathis, thank you both for coming."

Good, Bella's distracted, and Mathis can beat into a retreat after dropping off the coin. Khalani gets a smirk from the young man and a distracted mutter followed by a wink as she holds onto his arm.

Margeaux hears the call and she gives a soft laugh. "Ah, oui? Forty-Five gold and I will kiss 'er cheek again, oui?" She glances to Bella, giggling.

"How come I wasn't invited to kiss people to earn money for the place? Do I get to?" Aileana asks now with a grin, "Or are you worried that Finn will try to hunt them all up and hurt someone?" She laughs at this.

Mouse steps back and says, "Begging your pardon Your Excellency." He looks around for his misplaced drink then he grabs up one at random and downs it. Luckily it happened to be his. He looks around to see Mathis already gone and once more sets his drink down, this time so he can get another bite of food.

Bella looks a bit hurt at Mouse's final reaction, but she quickly covers it up with a smile to Aileana. "Your Grace, you're more than welcome to kiss people for money," she says, "I'm sure the Duke understands it's for a good cause." She quickly exits the kissing booth, and makes her way through the crowd. "Pardon me, I have to go tend to things in the kitchen."

Saxon threads her way across the room to where the Baroness Emerald Hollow had disappeared into the kitchen, waiting for a brief pause in the conversation before attempting an introduction to her. Glancing around the clinic, she noticed a few familiar faces amongst the crowd. The box weighed heavy under her arm and she shifted position from one foot to the other, balancing the load on one hip.

Bella does notice the woman with the large box under her arm. She stops on her way to the kitchen, and says, "Welcome to the party. I hope you are enjoying yourself."

Bartholemew just shakes his head at Margeaux's proclamations, though it's not likely she'll have to pay up as Bella exits the kissing booth in favour of another.

Margeaux ahs a bit at that as Bella flees and she looks as hurt at Bella as the woman does at Mouse. "Ah." Margeaux offers, before she gives a small smile. "Aileana?" She asks, looking to the Green Fielder Duchess. "Do no worry about what you and I discussed, oui?" She smiles, a bit tightly as she walks past her and looks to Bart. "It was a pleasure meeting you, oui?" She gives him a small finger wave, moving onwards.

Mouse grimaces at Bella's reaction to his comment and he grunts, setting his plate down and heading to follow her. He chews on his lower lip in thought, the gears in his head clanking away as his heavy brows knit together. "Your Excellency?"

Bartholemew can only watch Margeaux's retreating back, looking more than a little confused as he sits there, still holding her plate. Women. What can a young man do?

Aileana chuckles, "I don't think I'll do it. I think I need to go back to sleep again. I'm just really tired."

Saxon curtseys to the Baroness, "Saxon Wyndham, owner of the Farmers' Market Your Excellency," the woman smiles. "I brought over this" she says, moving the box from one hip to the other, for really it was quite heavy. "I usually leave out a box of damaged and bruised produce for those that need it at the end of each day but it never all gets taken, I wondered if perhaps it might be better used by the clinic, seems theres such a lot goes to waste every day otherwise."

Bella offers to take the box from Saxon, giving her a bright smile. "Oh thank you, Mistress Wyndham," she says, "That would be a great help! With this, and the food the Empress is having brought from the palace after dinner, we should be able to feed many people!" When Mouse approaches, she gives him a slight nod. "Can I help you, Mouse?" she asks, her expression not quite as friendly as before.

Bartholemew idly eats from Margeaux's discarded plate. Nothing wrong with the food on it, seeing as she's left.

Solphin walks back in from the dorms, staring backwards at something that's apparently caught her attention. "Bella, where did you get that folding screen back there, it's utterly fantastic. The one that hides the chamberpot. I might have to pick one up for my room, I like the style of it." Yes, just like that, resuming a conversation that never really began in the first place.

Mouse stops suddenly as he's addressed and wets his lips to give himself another moment of thought. It doesn't seem to do him any good though, "Uh...Well. Your Excellency is coming back to the booth soon? I was hoping for another kiss."

Saxon gives a slight frown as she hands over the box, she wasn't sure a Baroness /should/ be hefting a box of fruit and vegetables, but since the woman was already reaching for it, she passed it over. "Should be quite a few pots of stew or soup can be conjured up from what I can send by, its amazing how far a good cook c'n stretch a few ingredients..." she steps back, mingling with the crowd once more, wandering off to find herself a plate of food.

Bella doesn't seem to have a problem holding the hefty box Saxon gives her. Giving the woman a smile, she says, "Thank you again! Enjoy the party." At Mouse's comment, though, Bella's eyes grow shiny for a moment, and she rapidly blinks a few times. "I... I don't think so, Mouse. I have to take these into the kitchen." She catches Solphin's question, and says, "I made it, Solphin. Used to have one at the farm on Green Fields." And with that, Bella turns and goes into the kitchen.

BELLA GOES INTO KITCHEN, FOLLOWED BY MOUSE. THEY STAY THERE FOR A GOOD WHILE, THEN RETURN TO THE PARTY.

Upon returning to the party:

Solphin nods once, rather firmly at that, the short locks of her hair swinging across her forehead. "Indeed! I surely didn't run around naked, goodness!" laughing lightly. "Breeches from the day I was born, very nearly. Seemed more suited to me, actually. More comfortable. This skirt thing is very new, it's a wonder I haven't broken something." chuckling in spite of herself, she inclined her head again. "A pleasure, Bart."

Solphin adds. "New? no no no. About...two years now? Two and some change, actually. Are you fresh off the boat!?" Her eyes went wide, excited. "Welcome to Gateway!"

Bella makes her way out of the soup kitchen with Mouse, and takes a look around to see who's still here and who's left. She notices the crowd's thinned out considerably. Seeing Solphin and Bartholemew still in attendance, she smiles and waves to them.

Mouse follows Bella out of the kitchen and looks around the greatly thinned out party. He smiles to see Solphin still in attendance and gives her a smile, then another is turned to Bart. "Well...still a party."

Bartholemew chuckles and nods with a wry grin. "Aye. Off the boat so to speak. About a fortnight now," he tells Phinn. "Still getting used to skirts after that long? Wow. I didn't know they were so difficult."

Bella goes over to the buffet table, and pours a mug of ale. "Would you like some, mouse?" she asks. Hearing Bartholemew and Solphin's conversation, she grins. "you know, I would wear breeches if I could, Solphin. They are so much more practical than these dresses."

Solphin rocks on her heels. "Off the boat, how exciting." She mused, voice drifting a little airily. "Oh no, erm, these things are within the past couple months. Gosh, I hope they don't take two years!" her laugh was infectious and bright, reaching a hand up to rub the back of her neck gently. Then catching Mouse and Bella from the kitchen, the same hand raised up. "Bella and Mister I don't know." She exhaled deeply. "They are, aren't they? I was just saying, it's a miracle that I haven't broken my leg. I have new appreciation for you ladies who manage them so gracefully."

Mouse chuckles and says, "And what's so hard about skirts?" He waves a hand over his kilt then grins at Solphin and says, "Mosha Kirkorin at your service." He bows to her, as she's obviously a noble he doesn't know on sight. Then he looks over to Bella and says, "I would love some Your Excellency. Thank you kindly."

Bella pours two ales, and hands Mouse one with a warm smile. At his comment about skirts, she looks at his kilt, and raises an eyebrow. "When you wear one that goes down to your ankles, billows out around you in layers and layers of fabric, and it feels like you're wearing 15 pounds of undergarments as well, let me know how graceful you can be, Mouse," she says, grinning at him. "In fact, I'd pay to see that."

Bartholemew chuckles again, adding his own interest to Bella's. "Aye, I think I would at that." He winks Mouse's way, before offering a greeting. "Bartholemew Bateman. A pleasure to meet you."

Solphin eyes Mosha/Mouse skeptically, laughing some as she makes her way closer to him and the Baroness, given the man didn't yank away or do something else to conflict, the tomboy would reach out and tug on the knee length kilt. "/This/ hardly counts as a skirt, Mister Mosha." Her arms folded over her chest, a quirk of a smile there as she arches backward to meet the man eye to eye from her much lower position. Grinning toward Bella at that suggestion. "Maybe that's an idea. get Mosha here in a skirt and charge people to come and cackle for posterity." Oh a red hot, but harmless intending smile lanced back to Mouse, then transfered to Bart, just because he's there.

Mouse lifts a brow at Bella's comments and suggestions, "Get me the skirts and I'll wear em. Lucky for me I aint ever graceful, so I aint got nothin' to lose, and if you could get some money for your shelter, I'd dance in em too." Then he turns and offers Bartholemew a shake. "Nice to meet you Master Bateman." Then he finally turns to Solphin and says, "Call me Mouse. That's the first time in years I introduced myself and didn't let someone know I was called Mouse."

Bella gives Bartholemew a wry smile, and is about to comment to Solphin, when a messenger arrives. "Yer Excellency," he says, in a voice that's a bit squeaky. On the verge of the change, it sounds like. "Mistress Gabrielle needs ya! It's her time, she says!" Bella nods, and then can't help but grin at Mouse's offer. "You're on, Mouse. I'll set it up. I'm sorry, but I have to go attend a birth. You all stay as long as you like. Thank you so much for coming." Then, the midwife baroness follows the little messenger out of the center, picking up her medical bag in her office on the way.