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Another sunny afternoon in the Maestern household, and Josev was quite pleased to be preparing for guests.It was a fine Saturday for a barbecue, he'd thought, and the weekend made it perfect for company - no obligations to return to his shop, at least for today. He did love his work, but would hate to cut off a get-together, especially with someone he'd not seen for so long. It was nearly time for the guests to arrive, and he'd already gotten the grill ready. Fine cuts of steak were already sizzling (he did love any excuse to serve this particular food) alongside rather appetizing ribs, and he would later put on some chicken after the heartier meats had already cooked a while, what with the lighter meat's shorter cooking time. Inside, large bowls of salad were chilling in the refrigerator, and drinks were at the ready. A bottle of wine had been selected, as well, in case a glass might be had later on, and he was equally prepared if Callum might wish to have a beer or something else of that sort. "Always be prepared," was the beginning of Josev's motto, and it ended with "to be an excellent host." His guests, meanwhile, would hopefully be ready for a filling lunch. In the invitations he did make sure to mention that a light breakfast was advised.

Feodor, meanwhile, was upstairs getting ready. He had grown quite a bit in the time since he last saw their incoming guests, so they were likely in for a surprise. Also surprising would be the many massive spiders roaming the house, some being the size of a medium-weight dog, all made of mostly violet, plush material, stitches being visible that held the cloth together. That would only be a surprise, however, if any of said arachnids chose to show themselves at all...or perhaps if Sten sensed the clear essence signatures they gave off, though much lighter than that of an actual Essentic. Feo was trying to decide what he would wear now - his dad had said both to him and to their guests that casual attire was all that would be needed, but what shirt? what pants? So much to think about.

Aoi too had been invited, Josev figuring that Sten could use some further socialization with other Essentics. The flower no-longer-a-child had long since been ready, taking his time with the walk over to Josev's. He carried with him an assortment of cut fruit in a bowl, courtesy of Elst.

Ah, nothing quite like eager guests, always a pleasure to Josev - but as of yet the host was unaware of his guests, the doorbell lone and waiting. The front yard and entryway was well-maintained and kept in modest, but eye-pleasing design. It was certainly welcoming, for one.

Feodor had finally chosen a shirt, Josev spotted him in the dining room, kneeling next to one of his spiders. Communicating, in their own way. The food was smoking nicely, and as such Josev felt comfortable leaving them to do so for a while, and he drifted into the kitchen to ensure everything was ready.

And another guest was coming, as evidenced by a tall figure, dark eyes bearing flecks of gold. He was dressed nicely without breaking the casual barrier, wearing rather subdued colors. Aoi wasn't far away, now, and he saw the rather nice-looking vehicle that he didn't recognize as Josev's, then spotted the two figures. All doubt of who they were vanished, then, as he saw the essentic's shape, and he opened, then stretched out his mental channels, prepared to get a sense of their respective emotional states. Aoi only read what was broadcast willingly, of course - he knew quite well how rude it would be to try and pry. He offered a wave their way, wondering if they saw him.

Ah, two rings from the doorbell – at least one of the guests must have been eager, and Josev did have a feeling Sten got to the bell first. Leaving the kitchen, he headed towards the large cherrywood door. Aoi had quickly caught up to the other two guests, and he held the bowl of fruit under one arm as he said hello to them both. A quick greeting it had to be, as Josev then opened the door, calmly inviting them all in to his home.

Feodor finished his ‘chat’ with the spider, then, and it scurried off. He awaited them in the great room.