Oh, how she loved a party. This one was pretty good; there was dancing and singing and food and drink, and so many faces familiar and completely foreign to her alike. The noise was comforting to her, something she had always associated with family and warmth. A loud home was a good home, she thought affirmingly.

But there was something very important she needed to discuss.

Trotting through the crowds, Valeska was almost a half a head shorter than most of the other women; still, her nose was unparalleled in its accuracy and she knew precisely what scent she was following now. She didn't need eyes to find him.

Although he did kind of stand out.

Tall, willowy, and awkward, Amaris stood hunched in the middle of the feasting and for some reason seemed to look a little bit afraid of her approach. Why? Whatever for? She was his mother! His doting, wonderful, lovely mother with nothing but good intentions and gentle tutelage for him.

Stand up straight, she admonished immediately. Remember, you will represent Elysium one day!

Soon. Very soon. Sweet retirement.

So have you made any friends? she asked brightly. Come, maybe some fermented berries will help you. I know they make me loose, as they say!

Valeska crowed with laughter and slapped a paw against his back as she steered him very firmly toward the alcohol. She slurped up a mouthful with practiced ease, grinning with purple-stained lips as she motioned for him to do the same.

I am so glad we invited ourselves. It is a lovely party.