The dining hall is super packed, and Nino could just smell the mouth-watering aroma of a feast being prepared inside. It was almost like they were holding a banquet or something, with the people seated around the two grand tables or milling about chatting with one another. A closer look revealed several familiar faces, even — Linus??
The sight (sound, really) of her brother piques Nino's interest enough to poke her head fully into the doorway, but before she could venture inside, another, much closer figure catches her attention.
"O-oh, Miss Ethlyn!!" Calling a greeting, Nino scurries over, wide eyes still taking in her surroundings now that she was inside the room, before turning, just as awestruck, to the lady before her, "Wow, your dress is so pretty!! Is this a party? I came over 'cause I smelled really nice food cooking..."
It'd be bad to interrupt them if it turned out to be some private, important thing, but Miss Ethlyn was always so nice to her, so maybe she won't get mad for just asking. Still, Nino shuffles her a little on the spot as she asks, "Is... is it ok if I have some too?" It's ok even if she couldn't, really!! Linus might save her something, after all.
Ethlyn frowns. Nino speaks as though this is the first she has learned of the party and that is completely unacceptable. There was an invitation for her. Ethlyn had made sure of that. That it had not been properly delivered, that Nino might have missed out, that Nino might feel as though she is unwelcome--Ethlyn will not stand for any of that.
There are no teasing scolds for Nino, just a welcoming arm placed around her shoulders and a face that lights warm with a smile.
"Nino, you're supposed to be here. Your family and my family." Ethlyn's expression turns mischievous and playful as she turns Nino to face the table where Altena and Linus are sitting. "He is your family, isn't he? The one over there next to my daughter? You have the same name after all..."
She gives Nino a quick squeeze before letting her go. "I'm so glad you were able to make it. Please, come in and have fun!"