"Perhaps if the Ulfen Guard would allow anybody access to the palace where my father's body is interred, we might get an answer from him. But if Pythareus's claims are true, then our next emperor would be a regressive warmonger. I, for one, would not want to see Taldor fall under his yoke. It's about more than what my father wanted for our nation. It's about what's in the nation's best interest."
Eutropia bids you each kneel before her. Taldogis wags his tail happily at her side. She taps each of your shoulders in turn with her sword. "I dub thee Sir Bernal. Sir Doritan. Sir Liam. Dame Katria. Dame Maya. Rise, and be welcome into my service." She gives you all a slightly lopsided smile. "Unfortunately, I lack the official authority to knight anyone at this point, but your offers of loyalty are precious things, and so I offer these honorary knightings as signs of my respect.
"The five of you will work as my loyal agents to secure resources and allies, ideally without raising too much of a fuss when it can be avoided. Martella will direct you toward more specific goals; I have a great deal of work to accomplish myself in the meantime.
"Maxillar Pythareus has retreated to the fortress city of Zimar, in the south, and has been refusing my requests for council. Rumors suggest he's already begun gathering a network of supporters calling themselves the Imperialists. My faction shall be called the Loyalists.
"Now we rally our resources and allies. This is not a war we can win by swords; Pythareus commands the entirety of the Phalanx, and much of the rest of the military is fiercely loyal to him. This is a war we must win with words and guile and allies. We need the people of Taldor to unite behind a single monarch to dispel the military's desire to settle this with force of arms. I don't want the blood of common Taldans spilled to slake some petty squabble between nobles."
Martella speaks up. "The princess and I will work to determine the most valuable way to utilize your skills. Take some time to conduct your own business for the time being, but it won't be long before we call for you again. It's likely we'll have to leave Oppara behind, so make sure you do whatever you need to in the city. Unless you have any further questions, you are free to go."
Liam's first draft isn't any good. He looks it over and over - it's almost time. What to do?
He closes his eyes, takes a breath, and just starts talking to the wall. The words come. Satisfied, he goes out to face the crowd...
"People of Oppara! Change has come, whether we wanted it or not. Who will lead us, you ask? Why, you! The people of Oppara! The greatness of Taldor comes not from the strength of our armies but from the goodness of our people. When you, Bertrand, found the young men who were stealing your ale, and rather than flogging them showed them how to brew, you were demonstrating this. When you, Mallira, deliver the leftover bread to the beggars, you show us this. When you, Artin, an esteemed singer in our beloved opera, offer free lessons to the youth around the city, you demonstrate this. There is greed and violence among our people, that is true, but is generosity and compassion and beauty. And justice.
It is with this confidence that I say the people of Taldor can rule themselves! Through a more just Senate, and fairer laws. We have no Emperor? Well do not wait! Do not wait to be led! Do good deeds in your community, and build bridges with the other districts. Form citizens' councils to address the most immediate needs. We will have a new Emperor in time. And new laws. Show how well we can govern ourselves, and the powers that be will be forced to recognize that.
Govern ourselves? We are not Andoran, you say. Well, we do not need to be Andoran. Taldor could have an Empress, not to command us but to inspire and represent us. Let us find such a leader, one worthy of that honor, who is fully devoted to serving the people and who reflects the best of Taldor."
Maya blinks in surprise as Princess Eutropia names her 'Dame Maya.' A halfling a Dame? Who ever heard of such a thing?
Maybe positive change is possible, Maya muses.
After Princess Eutropia and Lady Martella finish speaking, Maya says, "I'll do everything I can to see that the Loyalists succeed."
She glances over at Liam. From her studies in politics, she's afraid that the cleric is right about Stavian having possibly found a loophole. That doesn't matter to Maya.
Addressing Princess Eutropia, Maya continues, "As far as I'm concerned, you're already Taldor's rightful Queen and ruler. The rest of Taldor will see that to be true soon enough."
Heeding the pair's words, Maya decides to try to make the most of the time she has left in Oppara. She uses her acting ability to arrange a private meeting with her parents. Maya does her best not to think about the meeting itself as she plans it. She has no idea what she'll say to her folks, Marra and Sumak, when she sees them again.
Between her acting abilities and her amazing hat that she discovered below the senate floor, the bard is able to arrange the secret meeting. Maya feels like it's been ages since she saw her parents last, but in reality it's only been a few days.
She lets her normally serious facade fade as she sees her mother and father. She offers the pair a genuine smile and embraces them warmly.
"It’s so good to see you two. I wasn’t sure if you were at the senate that night, or if… I’m just really glad you’re both okay."
Uncertain how much information she should give her parents about her activities, Maya says, “Lady Martella, the noblewoman who freed me, still has work for me to do. Good work. I may have to leave Oppara for it. If so, I’m not sure when I’ll be back. But I wanted to make sure you both know I’m okay. Great, actually. I’ve met several… associates… who share common goals. And I think you’ll be happy to know my oratorical abilities have improved. I might actually have a knack for the bardic ways.”
After the three spend some time talking, Maya finishes, “I’ll visit when I can, but it could be weeks or months or more. Please take care of each other. It’s a dangerous time to be in Taldor. And I… I’m going to pick up a copy of the Parables of Erastil before I depart. I don’t know how much I’ll learn or follow… but I’m going to try.”
-----
After her secret meeting with her family, Maya decides to arrange a more public gathering, a party, to be precise. She makes sure to invite the Watersby family as she intends to have a few words with them.
Her efforts successful, Maya is pleased with the party she’s able to arrange. At some point during the event, she makes her way over to Drina and Jakorin Watersby.
The bard smiles at the pair and says, “I’m glad to see you both survived recent events. I hope Nerosa’s studies are going well.”
Maya gives the pair a chance to respond before cutting to the chase. She leans in close to them, or at least as close as she can as a halfling. “I may have to go away for a while. I expect my parents to be perfectly fine whenever I return. That could be tomorrow, next week, next month, or even later. But when I return, they better be just fine. I’m no longer your slave, so don’t think you can overlook me so easily anymore.”
Maya backs away a couple steps, then acts as if the tense warning never occurred. She smiles at Drina and Jakorin again and concludes, “Like I said, I’m glad you both survived. Probably best to keep your heads down for now. Give Nerosa my regards.”
Now semi-officialy Sir Bernal, the duelist sets out to find ways to begin his tale as the dashing Rondelero from a no-name family who became the hero that saved Taldor from its nigh inevitable fall. Currently lacking in means, he writes a short mock-ballet in two scenes depicting his heroic actions beneath the Senate and against Wyssilka's cult. He makes sure that the details are foggy enough that his covert actions aren't exposed, but clear enough to display him in positive light. He invites acquaintances and patrons of the Silent Horse to watch his performance.
Doritan spends some time running errands for Eutropia, discrediting some of their opponents and building up a spy network of sorts, establishing a few contacts in the Black market and recruiting a handful of agents for future contact.
A relatively quiet week passes in the city. Much of Taldor runs on routine, without the need for direct oversight, and while an eerie quiet falls over the city, the citizens maintain their daily lives with little disruption for now. Talk in the street focuses heavily on the Exaltation Massacre and the War for the Crown, with everything from accurate news to wild speculation making the rounds. For now, at least, Oppara seems to be holding its breath, waiting to see if civil war is inevitable.
Despite the chaos and violence that rocked the senate and the factionalizing of the nation's aristocracy, remarkably little violence has broken out across Taldor. Over a dozen nobles—mostly Eutropia's distant relations—have declared themselves the true inheritors, but for now the empire runs on momentum. Most of the populace waits nervously, unsure of what to do without a senate to declare an official heir or an emperor to appoint new senators. The open conflicts are small probes into opposing claimants' territories and dedication; Krearis, always a hub of conflict, has seen swift battles between opposing dukes, while in the south, Maxillar Pythareus has directed the Taldan Phalanx to crush any stirrings of competition from his neighbors.
After you have had time to rest and attend to your own matters, Martella sends word to meet her at the Porthmos Club—an exclusive teahouse in Oppara's Aroden's View district. She instructs you to pack for a long trip through the country, and to bring at least one fine outfit, a suitable hunting outfit, and at least one respectable mask or costume. After a light lunch and small talk, your coach departs north. Only after the city begins to vanish beneath the horizon does she speak about business, handing you a sealed scroll case before speaking.
"I appreciate you agreeing to this trip on such short notice. Please, have an estate.
"I wish I could say this little gift didn't come with strings attached, but these are tangled times. As you may have heard, the Ulfen Guard—the emperor's personal bodyguards—have locked down the imperial palace, and they won't allow access to anyone until Taldor has an official Grand Prince once again. Keeps unreasonable sorts from looting the palace, I suppose, but it has also sealed away Eutropia's personal wealth. The Stavian family has another estate, though—the Palace of Birdsong—but the Stavians entrusted its care and maintenance to stewards two centuries ago. These stewards now refuse to leave and, I'm told, are courting Maxillar Pythareus's favor. It doesn't help matters that these squatters are my family, or that my half brother Bartelby has been squandering the estate's fortunes.
"While we technically have the authority to demand the estate's return, we lack the power. If we could weaken Bartelby's power base and woo some of his subordinates to support us, we could reclaim the Palace of Birdsong. That's where you and your lovely new homes come in.
"The Lady Allis Betony died nearly a decade ago, leaving no heirs. We purchased her estate at auction last week, and I have taken the liberty of drawing up a few documents listing you as Betony family scions. You'll be arriving just in time to make your debut at the annual Tanager Jubilee. The carriage and horses are yours to keep, as you can't very well be seen walking to the jubilee; I'll be riding on to Cassomir once we near the county border. Make friends, learn the lay of the land, and afterward do what you can to win the nobles' and citizens' loyalty. Undermine Bartelby, and wherever you can, try to improve peoples' lives and engender loyalty. For any overt actions you take, you'll likely want to hide your identity to keep Bartelby from cracking down on you.
"I feel I must stress the importance of your task. The princess has sold her townhouse to fund this plan, and at this point her resources are perilously thin. If we're to stand any chance in this bid for the throne, we need a suitable base of operations and steady income."
"Any questions?"
"Can you tell us any more about your half-brother, or the rest of your family? Or the palace itself? Or the Betony Estate? Or the Tanager Jubilee? Or ..." Katria flushes as she realizes she's asking a lot of questions.
Maya listens closely to Lady Martella. She’s fascinated by the operation before them. This kind of thing is exactly what she’s been studying and preparing for. This could be the perfect opportunity to show off her bardic abilities.
Following up on Katria’s questions, Maya says, “What kind of people live in the county. Mostly country people or rural nobles? Or some combination, I’m guessing? Also, is there anything in particular we should know about Lady Betony to effectively play the part of her descendants? I imagine I may have to masquerade as a servant, or perhaps I could be the family’s Wit.”
Maya purposefully uses the word “servant” instead of “slave.” She never intends to be a slave again, not even a pretend one.
As she waits following their meeting with the Princess, Katria settles down to write furiously between brief trips to equip herself for the coming struggle.
An examination of the Exaltation Massacre, and the reports of its witnesses on Taldor's future
While all true historians know that it is difficult for any but elves and dwarves[1] -- due to their lengthy lifespan -- to truly write about events in their lifetime and those events' role in the course of history, there can be little argument that the Exaltation Massacre -- in which Grand Prince Stavian III seemingly[2] led a massacre of the Taldan Senate -- will certainly be listed in the history books.
While we cannot in all due conscience say what will come from the massacre, we can say that accuracy in its reporting will be critical. Taldor has a long history of its history changing, reports being ignored or changed because they do not fit with the narrative that those in power wish to convey. This has been to the detriment of the empire, with Taldor's mistakes (and at times successes)[3] covered up.
In this case, while there were scores of deaths in the Senate Hall that night, many people did survive. True scholars should seek to take down records of what they saw and experienced that night[4] and make sure such notices are spread across the width and breadth of Taldor or even through the Inner Sea and beyond[5]. Printing presses, commong in Andoran, Cheliax, Galt, Nex, and Alkenstar, might help accomplish this spread of reliable information for the benefit of history.
...
[1] Among the civilized races, of course. Other long-lived races may well be able to accomplish this feat as well, but they are less likely to share such scholarship with the dominant humans of Taldor and the Inner Sea.
[2] This has of course yet to be proven, but little doubt seems to be given consideration in this matter; the only possible exception would be from those who note Grand Prince Stavian III's own death, but considering many of those who were slain or escaped the Senate that night fought back, this death does little to disprove the monarch's role in the event.
[3]Note the many histories of the Armies of Exploration, which at times seem to even disagree on which armies went to what areas of the world. The losses of the Sixth Army of Exploration are a perfect example, with various histories offering sometimes contradictory explanations for its missteps and some arguing against any missteps despite the results of the Battle of Nagisa.
[4]Though should keep in mind that eyewitness accounts -- especially of such traumatic experiences as the Exaltation Massacre -- are notoriously unreliable even before they've been manipulated for an author's own ends.
[5]Despite the shame this might accrue to Taldor and its ruling class, it is hardly alone in such types of horror when one considers the governments of Galt, Cheliax and Nidal, among other examples.
After several days of furious writing that continues in the vein, she has the treatise published, to much acclaim among the scholarly sections of Oppara.
Unfortunately, she's much less successful at rallying support for poor Kalbio of Breezy Creek, her treatise on the difficulties of his parents' debt and how it should be forgiven -- as a general example of ways of allowing Taldor's lower classes to advance, to the betterment of the nation; and as a specific memorial to Kalbio, the first victim of the Exaltation Massacre and certainly one upon whom no blame could ever be construed -- fell on deaf ears.
She grinds her teeth at that, knowing that she must find some way to do something to help the poor couple.
Martella laughs at Katria's enthusiasm and does her best to answer each question. "We're an old-blood noble family, with genealogies tracing back to Azlanti settlers, and my siblings will rarely let you forget it. Bartelby himself is charming, graceful, intelligent, but arrogant and casually cruel. He excelled in his arcane studies as a child, and I have no doubt he's only improved since then.
"The Palace of Birdsong is one of the Stavian estates, but the Stavians haven't visited it in centuries. Fairly humble, as palaces go. A century ago, they appointed the Lotheeds as regents to oversee it and the county.
"The Tanager Jubilee is an annual sort of founders' day celebration. Local tradition claims that when Count Markolian Stavian broke ground for the palace some eight centuries ago, a scarlet tanager landed on his shovel and sang his praises. It's a day off for the lower classes, but the aristocracy celebrates with two days of feasting, games, dancing, tournaments, and a hunt. Making a good showing at the jubilee is an excellent way to win influence."
Martella turns to Maya. "I've not seen the county of Meratt in over a decade, but it's quite the pastoral wonderland: olive orchards and vineyards, and hills and ample woods to hunt game. The largest town you'l’l find is Lotheedar, near the Palace of Birdsong, but there's a village the Betony estate is expected to oversee as well: Stachys. The estate itself is something of a fixer-upper, I'm afraid. Overall, the county is perhaps not as well maintained as the locals would prefer, but Father was a competent administrator if nothing else.
"The county's residents are mostly rural folk, but a few nobles rule the baronies within. Baron Nicolaus Okerr'ss lands stand at the edge of the county. I believe you met him during the senate festivities before the... unpleasantness. He's generally a fair-minded and compassionate man and would be a good ally. Hopefully you made a good impression on him."
Martella gestures to the scroll case when Maya asks about Lady Betony. "The documents within establish at least one of you as the second cousin, once-removed, of the late Lady Allis Betony. The rest of you may pose as additional cousins, servants, or attendants of the primary heir. As cousins, you need not assume false names, nor will you be expected to know many details about the family, and therefore can slip readily into local society."
Liam purchases a nobles' outfit (75 gp), signet ring and jewelry (100 gp), a hunting outfit (perhaps around 15 gp?), and a fine masquerade mask (perhaps 25 gp?).
He meets Lady Martella at the Porthmos Club and listens to the mission with interest.
"I think I can play the part of minor nobility," says Liam with a grin. "I'm willing to be a cousin. My family aren't particularly high-ranking, but I learned enough about how to behave in this setting, how to sound refined, what to talk about at dinner parties, and so on. I think I can figure out some of the details of estate administration as well.
Impressing people at a festival? Should be a pleasant challenge.
Does the document say where we are from? If it doesn't, I'll stick with being from Kozan - the less I have to fabricate, the better off I'll be."
He thinks a moment.
"Please send my regards to Lady Gloriana Morilla. In all the excitement, I forgot about my family's (distant) connections to hers. I've been trying to sketch it out, and I think it is that my grandfather's second cousin married her great-grandmother's second cousin. Distant, like I said - but it's still a connection and it was rude of me to not mention it when I met her. I hope she is well. I should review the family tree in case there are any more connections to be found in the weeks ahead."
Rather than bother with buying several sets of clothes (far too cumbersome), Maya will elect to just buy a set of Sleeves of Many Garments (200 gp). With those in combination with her Hat of Disguise and Envoy Ring, she's confident she can take on any appearance required of her.
Maya listens closely to Lady Martella's answers. After she mentions Baron Okerra, Maya decides to also ask, "Besides the Baron, is there anyone else you think would make a good ally or that we should try ally with?"
-----
Whenever the time (eventually) comes to plan their specific approach, Maya says to everyone, "For myself, if Liam plays the role of the cousin, I think I could function as his Wit. It would probably be the easiest way for me to avoid having to fake much. Being satirical is part of my profession, after all."
Maya looks over at the others and says, "What of the rest of you? Any ideas as to what role you want to play?"
"The documents do not specify your origins," Martella tells Liam. "And I shall pass on your regards to Lady Morilla when next I see her."
When Maya asks about allies, Martella thinks for a moment. "My news is spotty, but I understand some shadowy figure calling themself 'Night Swan' has been stirring up trouble—robbery and vandalism, but also some violence against Lotheed soldiers. They could be a valuable ally if they have some feud with my brother."
Katria wracks her mind for a few moments, thinking of her preparations.
She has her new finery, replacing the ones that was destroyed in the the disaster of the Exaltation Massacre, as well as the other items they were told to bring and a couple other protective measures.
Katria looks over the documents, wondering if she can tell they're forgeries, but at least in a cursory glance, they look good to her .
"These look very good," she says, both impressed and a bit annoyed (she has tried to make somewhat of a career of trying to discern forgeries and other such false information from accurate details of history, after all, so it hardly seems proper to benefit from such ... crimes). "Do you have access to any more basics of them? I might be able to do more forgeries if need be."
"I should be able to pretend I'm a minor noble, as, well, it's not really pretending. I can be another cousin ..."
"I have a few spare tools you can have, Katria, if you wouldn't mind compensating me for them," Martella says.
"Of course," Katria replies.
Bernal makes a mental notes of names and locations he should remember for the mission. He had his green Rondelero outfit cleaned and mended after the carnage it has been through in the night of the massacre, but he keeps it tucked safely in one of his bags, electing to wear comfortable travel clothes for the road and switch to his more opulent suit for the festival. While he does not recall meeting a Baron Okerra at the Exaltation gala, he assumes one of his companions interacted with the baron while he was running errands for Martella or competing against Wyssilka.
"So we are to make our way to the Jubilee, make some connections to increase our own power base and undermine that of Bartelby, and eventually expel him from the Palace. Sounds good. How much time might you assume we have?"
"Obviously, the sooner you can secure Eutropia's wealth, the better, but I would expect it will take some time to complete your task. Anticipate spending a few months at least in Meratt."
Maya listens closely to the remainder of the conversation, then pulls out her ink, inkpen, and journal for the rest of the trip. She's careful to only write when they're on very flat sections of the road.
Recent days have been quite eventful... she begins to write as they journey onward.
"We should evaluate the truth of these charges against the 'Night Swan' and see if they can be persuaded to be more judicious. Reckless actions by this vigilante could just drive support for Bartelby. But perhaps they could be an ally."
Another idea comes to mind.
"Should we stock up on provisions before we leave? Maybe including some good wine, cheeses, and other durable provisions? We could have a tent at the Jubilee to entertain visitors, introduce ourselves, and make a good impression. I am willing to contribute 300 gold towards this. We'll look like the outlanders coming in and throwing our money around to buy friends... which I believe is rather expected in Taldor."
"It's not strictly necessary, but I don't see how it could hurt," Martella says. "You should have time to do some shopping in the town of Lotheedar before you head to the palace for the jubilee."
As Oppara continues to recede in the distance, Martella looks to each of you. "So then, to review: attend the Tanager Jubilee, use your charms to ensure an easy fit into local society, and then use your skills and alliances to subtly change the county for the better. Only then, once you are sure to have won over the hearts of the locals, are you to take the Palace of Birdsong back from the Lotheed family on behalf of Princess Eutropia. With secure alliances, you can then openly show your allegiances and invite your neighbors to join you, using Meratt as a template for what positive changes may await Taldor under Princess Eutropia.
"Your new 'title' also makes you tribunes of the town of Stachys—essentially investing you with the power and responsibility to act as the community's mayor and judge. You have rights as stewards to the Lotheeds, most notably the right to request audiences with Bartelby, but your rule extends solely to your lands; openly taking any action outside your own demesne is dangerous and foolish unless done covertly.
"I'd suggest you carry out any covert actions in some sort of disguise, perhaps using alter egos or masks—the sort of symbols common citizens rally to—while publicly playing the role of aristocrats. Finally, you should not try to use magic to try to influence your new neighbors; the Lotheeds are a particularly magically aware family, and likely to spot such tampering—even if it weren't already considered grotesque.
"As part of your rewards, you can take what portable valuables the Lotheeds have at the palace—coins, jewelry, magical trinkets, and so forth—but the furniture, libraries, portraits, and other family items should remain where they are for future generations."
Lady Lotheed produces a small case and opens it to reveal vials of a cloudy red substance. "I have one more boon for you. I have been experimenting with a memory-erasing poison I call Styx oil. It should provide you a second chance to correct a social faux pas or escape notice. However, it's expensive and time-consuming to produce, so I can only offer you three doses for now. Use them wisely.
"If there are no further questions, I brought paperwork to review, plus several novels and sets of cards for you to share to help pass the time."
STYX OIL PRICE
600 GP
Type poison, injury; Save Fortitude DC 16
Frequency 1/minute for 2 minutes
Initial Effect unconscious for 1d4 minutes;
Secondary Effect confusion for 2d6 rounds;
Cure 2 saves
"I understand. Let's save the fancy provisions for our own entertaining, and just bring a bottle of fine wine to Bartleby as a host gift for the Jubilee."
Maya glances curiously at the styx oil. Such a measure seems quite drastic to the halfling. She hopes they can avoid needing to go to such lengths. It would have to be a very serious error to warrant such a thing.
The bard passes on the novels and cards and continues to write in her journal. Given the last few days, she can't count on being able to write all the time, so she wants to make the most of the time she has.
At Liam's words, Maya says, "Wine is good, but our words are what will matter the most. We need to try our best to make a good first impression. That'll make it that much easier to win the renown and trust we'll need for this operation to be successful."
"I agree, Maya. We need to make a good impression on the common people, on sympathetic nobles like Baron Okerra, and also on Bartleby, even though we will be subtly opposing him. It is best if he doesn't realize our intentions."
Katria nods, trying to resist the temptation of looking at what Maya is writing.
"When we arrive, it sounds like we'll have to quickly get settled and prepare for the jubilee, but hopefully we can at least get a nice bottle of wine as a gift," she agrees. "I suppose we can worry after that about establishing other identities. Maybe the Night Swan would help with that, or if worst comes to worst, could be used as part of our cover ... I think we should try to find him or her as quickly as possible afterward."
She thinks for a few moments.
"Do you know how much they've heard of what happened in Oppara out here? I hate to be without my usual implements, but if they would give us away..." she asks.
"I'm fairly sure that they will know the broad strokes of what transpired in Oppara, but not the specifics. You can be sure that nobody will recognize you just based on your descriptions--you are all still relative unknowns, which is part of the reason that I selected you to serve as my agents in the first place."
The first two days of your carriage journey pass quietly. Each night, you stop at a small roadside inn to rest, with Lady Lotheed covering the expenses. Early on the third day, as you near the county border into Meratt, Martella bids farewell. She boards a second waiting carriage and departs for Cassomir as you continue on your way.
You haven't made it very far into Meratt when your carriage is waylaid by a throng of desperate beggars and traders.
"Goods for sale! Stock up on supplies!"
"Please, my ladies, spare some coins?"
"Hail, strangers! What're ya buyin'?"
"My children are hungry. A few coppers will go a long way."
Maya stows her journal, ink, and pen when the carriage comes upon the beggars and traders. She quickly slides on her Sleeves of Many Garments and dons her noble attire, or rather the attire befitting of her role as the group’s wit.
Not exactly when I expected us to make a first impression, but I guess this will have to work.
The halfling hops down out of the carriage and smiles widely at the residents of Meratt. Inside herself, Maya is silently screaming about the injustice of the situation. Bartelby and his cohorts are likely living it up in their posh estates while the common people of the county are suffering and begging for scraps.
Maya buys 50 gp worth of goods, mostly breads and clothing accessories, and doesn’t bother with trying to haggle about pricing. She goes about shaking the beggars and traders hands as she moves among them, all the while still smiling. Her smile is at least partially genuine.
“Hello good sir, it’s a pleasure to meet you.
“Greeting madam, you’re looking lovely today.
“Why yes sir, I do believe you’ve got a fine mustache.
“Hello little girl, you’ve got a pretty smile.”
Maya does her best to make a good impression with the various residents of Meratt county. Even if these people don’t have much influence over the county’s affairs, they still matter to Maya.
The beggars quickly warm to Maya's charm and kind demeanor. They gesture to the edge of the forest, where a cloaked man discreetly shows off a few magic items for sale. "Here's our special wares, should you be interested. Tax-free. Have to keep it hush-hush or the count's dog, Sir Gusairne, will shut us down. You won't report us, will you? We're just trying to make a living."
Maya continues smiling at the beggars then shakes her head when they ask if she’ll report them.
“Of course not. It’ll be our secret. I am curious about this Sir Gusairne, though. Can you tell us anything about him? Besides his dog-like traits, of course.”
"He's the count's seneschal, and a right bastard to boot! One of the Lotheed's cousins let a wandering elf have his way with her, and out popped Gul Gusairne! He's an inquisitor of Abadar, and he and his cronies serve as the count's secret police. They come out here occasionally to bust up our market and extort us out of our best wares. Ain't managed to shut us down yet, thank the gods."
Bernal sports a toothy grin to welcome the commoners. While Maya personally greets the various beggars and salesmen, the duelist searches his wallet for some money-30 silver pieces, which he would consider spare change, but he knows means a lot to peasants such as the one he used to be. He stands up on the still-moving carriage, balance not being an issue for the practiced Rondelero artist, and greets the people each with a coin or two in hand.
"Good day to you, fine people of Meratt! Yes, my friend, all yours; buy yourself something nice to eat. That's right, my pretty lady, you and your lovely child shall not be hungry tonight. Tell your friends, tell your family, tell anyone within earshot; the Green Leopard is in town!"
Bernal sits back on the carriage, beaming. While still shaking the hands of the various commoners flocking to the group, he speaks to himself.
"The Green Leopard... it's intriguing, if slightly cliché. I should try for something other than colour-noun, though I do enjoy the leopard part. How about... the Leopard of Brokenbridge?.. or the Brokenbridge Leopard. Yes, that's it. Short, catchy, homely yet exotic, unmistakable yet mysterious. I shall go by the Brokenbridge Leopard for my stage persona so long as my identity needs to remain unknown. What say you, Doritan, Liam, Katria?"
Katria shakes her head sadly at the sight of the peasants.
I've heard stories, of course, but it hadn't occurred to me things had gotten so bad. It's worse when you see it in person than it is to just read about it. I guess like the massacre; that was far worse than all the battles I've read about.
She shakes her head as Bernal says her name.
"Huh? I'm sorry, I was lost in thought for a moment," she apologizes.
He wants to be a leopard? I can't have heard that right, she thinks. Pay attention, Katria. Sometimes there are things going on that aren't in your books.
She exits the carriage to check out the finer goods the group has.
"Nothing for me today, thank you," she demurs as none of the items strike her fancy.
As she hears the group talking to Maya, she looks interested.
"And what about the Night Swan? We've heard she may be causing some problems in this area. I can't imagine Sir Gusairne appreciates that," she inquires, perhaps a little too bluntly.
"We've heard all sorts of stories about the Night Swan, but whatever they're up to, it ain't helping us none," says one of the beggars. "Try asking around Lotheedar."
Other commoners flock to Bernal, eagerly shaking his hand and reaching for the coins he offers,
Liam will spend 15 gp on goods from the traders. Given the region's olive orchards and vineyards, he asks for olive oil, local wine, and perhaps some fruit preserves. As well as some bread or cakes. Like Maya, he won't haggle, happy to let the traders have a profit.
He'll put on a bit of an air of a cultured nobleman, or at least a pretender to such status. And yet, one who is fond of this pastoral region.
"What a remarkable blend! So rustic. You can taste the fresh country air - and that earthiness!"
Upon hearing of a local problem, his curiosity is piqued. "This Gul Gusairne is a servant of Abadar, yet resorts to extortion? And seeks to thwart trade? Well now. That's... odd."
Later, he will mention quietly to the party "Abadarans tend to be a fairly honest lot as a whole. I wish to hear the other side to this story."
At Liam's comment about Gul Gusairne, Maya can't help but interject. "It's probably more proper to say that he thwarts their trade. I'm sure he's quite content to see that trade runs smoothly that profits him. If he's really an inquistor, I'm sure he comes up with some cockimamy excuse to justify his actions to himself and his god.
"Even if Gusairne's not an exemplary follower, Abadar has always struck me as a bit stuck up and self-involved. Maybe best to be careful around any other Abadarans we encounter."
Before they depart, Maya says to the beggars and traders, "Should you have any trouble with that Gusairne or hear anything about the Night Swan, I'm sure my Lady and Lords would be most grateful to hear about it. They're now the tribunes over Stachys. You can seek us out there. I, for one, would be most pleased to speak with you again about such matters should something new come up."
ooc]There is now a link to a map of the county at the top of the page./ooc]
Your carriage takes you north along the Oppara Highway through the county of Meratt. Nestled just south of the Verduran Forest, the county sprawls across the Tandak Plains, which stretch northeast of Cassomir. The land heer is pastoral, with rolling hills and pockets of verdant forest. The World's Edge Mountains to the east occasionally rise into view, creating breathtaking vistas for travelers cresting the rising plains. Noble estates, hamlets and villages, and farmland of all sorts knit the countryside together like a familiar and comforting quilt.
Travel through the county might attract far more sightseeing Taldan nobles were it not for the area's pervasive pall of economic mediocrity. Meratt was once a shining jewel of peaceful, slow-paced luxury, but that was many centuries ago. Generations of greedy nobles' mismanagement has slowly bled the locals' pockets dry through bureaucracy, taxes, and tithes of locally produced resources sent to more voracious urban centers. As a result, when you examine the county closely, behind the beautiful scenery you find magnificent manors with drooping roofs, towns with broken cobblestones, canals with rickety pumps, and the farmers and herders wearing little more than darned rags.
You pass through a few small villages near several lakes on your journey, as shortly after nightfall, you arrive in Lotheedar. At the fork of the Dalaston Highway and the North Cassomir Highway is Lotheedar, the county of Meratt's capital as well as its most prominent trading hub. The town seems to have benefited from more upkeep than the other settlements you passed through, and it is well-to-do, if not exactly wealthy. It's too late to do much in town, though, so you secure rooms at a combination tavern and inn called the Count's Cravat and get some rest.
In the morning, you do what last-minute shopping you need to do, then you get dressed in your party attire and take your carriage just north of Lotheedar, where the Palace of Birdsong stands. The lush palace gardens extend for over a mile in every direction, consisting of flower gardens, low hedges, fruit and nut orchards, and vineyards. A number of swans and peacocks roam the grounds freely. A dozen outlying cottages for guests line the western edge of the property.
The palace itself is vast, rambling and magnificent; one of the few places in Meratt preserved in its original splendor. The two-story palace is built around a central gallery, and a tower rises behind the west wing.
As you approach the palace, you meet with an astonishing array of guests, nearly 40 altogether, all being fussed over by an army of servants sporting bird masks. The palace throngs with chatter and laughter. Numerous entertainers—ferret-jugglers, fire-breathers, stilt-walkers, and other amusements—keep guests occupied as they arrive.
While a servant unloads your baggage from the carriage, a well-dressed, handsome man with sharp features and thick, dark hair approaches. He favors you with a warm smile.
"Well met, newcomers. I am Count Bartelby Lotheed, steward of the county of Meratt, landgrave of the Hyden Marches, and tribune of Lotheedar. We understand you are the new heirs to the Betony lands. It is quite the honor to be our new neighbors, we're sure."
Maya assesses Bartelby. His inherent arrogance would be hilarious if it wasn’t so sad. Maya considers how best to make an impression on the man. She decides a straightforward approach is probably best. It might seem strange for the heirs’ wit to try being underhanded. Best to be open about things.
“Good day to you, Count Bartelby. I serve as the heirs’ wit and must say that I find your attire atrocious and your posture appalling. I’m certain, however, that the heirs’ presence here will serve to improve your demeanor in no time.”
Maya gives Bartelby a smirk and gestures toward the others in the group as if to point to examples of supreme stateliness.
Liam makes sure to get a 15-gp bottle of wine with the morning shopping - likely one of the best Lotheedar has to offer.
He takes in the Jubilee with some interest, appreciating the talents of the performers. As Maya greets the Count, he rolls his eyes with mock exasperation.
"Maya, Maya, the performers are over there. Juggling ferrets and breathing fire. We're not the entertainment."
Then he approaches the Count. "Greetings, My Lord. Thank you for your hospitality in welcoming us to Birdsong Palace."
"I'm Katria Delaval," Katria replies, but then any other pleasantries go out of her mind as she glances over the entertainment, mind racing as she thinks of an article about how this sort of opulence amid the general poor state of the rest of the county is so emblematic of the problems Taldor's facing.
Bartelby chuckles at Maya's comments. "A biting wit, indeed! By custom, each set of guests has a jester assigned to them during the jubilee to serve as a guide. I'll have to try to find somebody who can stand toe to toe with you, Miss...Maya, was it?"
The count accepts the gift from Liam. "It is my pleasure. I feel it is my duty to show my newest vassals the finest Meratt has to offer." He spares Katria a dubious glance as the occultist temporarily goes mute, then he looks to Bernal and Doritan.
Bernal waits for Maya to finish her cheeky introduction and laughs politely.
"Haha! I sure love when she does that. Salutations to you! I am Bernal Iacomo of Brokenbridge, scion to Allis Betony, and it is my utmost pleasure to make milord's acquaintance. It is exciting that me and my kinsmen have finally managed to lay our hands on old Betony's estate; I'm sure the affair will prove beneficial for you, and for us, and for everyone involved."
The dancer finishes his introduction with a bow and a flourish. "Well then! We should start enjoying the jubilee without further ado. Lavish, extravagant; I love it! Milord sure has a great taste."
Doritan, for most of the journey, is content to watch and observe the countryside go past, preferring his deeds speak for themselves (and was busy adapting his new gear into his costume).
At the party, Doritan breaks his silence, slipping into his 'sociable' mindset. He greets the count warmly and flatteringly, "It is most certainly a pleasure and an honor to meet you as well. I've heard many great things about you, and I am most certainly pleased to finally make your acquaintance. Truth be told, I was hoping you might be able to provide some guidance in the matters of tending to land- I've had little practical experience with the skills myself, I'm sorry to say. But it is certainly nice to have the chance to learn from the best."
Bartelby inclines his head at Bernal. "It's true. My taste is impeccable," he says with a smirk.
He seems to be a bit warmer to Doritan. "Should time permit, we shall discuss business at greater length. For now, feel free to wander the grounds and sample the hors d'eouvres. There are a few more guests I must greet, and then we shall begin the festivities."
Fine laburnum trees blossoming with yellow flowers flank the drive leading up to the palace, with a large fountain and several statues providing ostentation. Bartelby leads you through an opulent grand hall with unsettling white walls. The walls are decorated with portraits and four carved columns support the ceiling. The columns are carved in the likenesses of Abadar, Aroden, Cayden Cailean, and Shelyn. The ceiling is painted with a fresco map of Taldor, representing the pillars of faith that support the nation.
On the far side of the hall, doors open onto a marble porch overlooking a garden of bushes, green grass, and hedges cut into rampant lions and owls, all arranged around a fountain. The tweeting, twittering, and hotting of songbirds arranged in gold cages around the porch is nearly deafening.
Out on the veranda are tables laden with fine local white wines, cheeses, and jellied calves' feet. Guests gather to converse and mingle as entertainers perform for their amusement.
You spot several notable guests who have arrived already. The most familiar face is Baron Nicolaus Okerra, once more standing a head above most of the crowd. Near him is a broad, middle-aged woman with a wide smile and expressive eyes. A young girl stands beside her, rail-thin and pale, and looking vaguely surprised or frightened by everything. These are Dame Parthena Crabbe and her daughter, Sepsinia.
Elsewhere, an older woman surveys the crowd imperiously. Though age has begun to bend her strong frame, she still stands six feet tall. A scar across her face is proudly displayed. This is Her Grace Baroness Legate Adella Voinum.
Finally, you spot a plain, muscular, and heavily freckled half-elf with salt-and-pepper hair. She is dressed much less ostentatiously than most of the guests. This is Onora Piscum, the honorary tribune of Stachys in the absence of a Betony heir.
Discovery checks for Baron Okerra are Profession (soldier) or Sense Motive. Perception of Strength can learn his strengths, while Heal or Sense Motive can learn his weaknesses.
Discovery checks for Dame Crabbe are Sense Motive. Knowledge (local) or Perception can learn her strengths, while Sense Motive can learn her weaknesses.
Discovery checks for Baroness Voinum are Sense Motive. Diplomacy or Sense Motive can learn her weaknesses, while Sense Motive can learn her weaknesses.
Discovery checks for Onora Piscum are Knowledge (local) or Sense Motive. Diplomacy or Sense Motive can learn her strengths, while Sense Motive can learn her weaknesses.
Okay, think that's everything! When I get a chance, I will summarize all of this up and keep track of your progress on the campaign info tab.
Maya surveys the various nobles. She takes a couple minutes to decide how she should approach the situation. They obviously need as many allies as possible if they're going to reclaim the Palace for the Princess.
Ultimately, Maya decides it's probably best to start with the familiar. She's spoken to Baron Okerra previously and knows he can be a reasonable man, at least if he wants to be. Besides, her previous straightforward method with the man seemed to have worked, so why not try again?
The bard strides confidently through the crowd of people twice her size. She smiles at anyone who glances at her, but keeps her focus on the Baron.
Once she reaches the man, Maya gives him a curtsy and says, "Hello again, Baron Okerra. You may or may not recall that we briefly met on the night of the senate massacre. I'm pleased to see you survived.
"I would rather not dwell on that somber topic, however. You see, I've decided that while Lady Lotheed is an excellent employer, my services are currently better put to use here in Meratt County. I trust you still remember what Lady Lotheed did for you and your county, yes? Anyway, I hope we can count on your continued friendship. These are perilous times for Taldor, to say the least.
"Can Princess Eutropia and Lady Lotheed still count on your support?"
Baron Okerra excuses himself from his conversation with the Crabbes and smiles at Maya. "Good day, my lady. I am glad you made it through that night as well. Welcome to Meratt!
"I will support your cause, so long as you observe the laws of our county. I am a man of honor above all else, and I will not compromise my moral standing for any man or woman, not even a princess."
The moment Baron Okerra turns away from her, Dame Crabbe sets her sights on the rest of you. She pushes her way through the crowd, dragging her daughter in her wake.
"Hello there, my lovelies!" Dame Crabbe says with a wide smile. Up close, she smells overwhelmingly of camphor and sugar. "We haven't properly met yet, an oversight which must be corrected! I am Dame Crabbe of Moost, and this is my lovely daughter, Sepsinia. Say hello, Sepsinia!"
Sepsinia briefly looks up in apparent surprise, then quickly lowers her eyes. "Good day," she says softly.
"You are quite an eclectic bunch! How are you related to Lady Allis Betony? What sort of things do you like? Dislike? You have come from Oppara, yes? I simply must know the latest gossip from the capital!"
Liam thinks it would be useful to learn about Onora Piscum (basic Discovery check). How did she come to be honorary tribune? What has she been doing for the town?
"Greetings, Onora."
"I am Liam, heir to the Betony estate and Tribune of Stachys. I understand you have been looking after the town. I am glad we have this opportunity to talk. I am most interested to learn about the town, about the needs of the people and the infrastructure, and how my family can best be of service."
Edit: Liam's Disguise check to appear human:
"Well, it's about time somebody showed up to claim responsibility for Stachys," Onora says, looking Liam up and down. "I hope you're up for the task. The town's pretty much gone to seed without anybody taking care of it. It's gonna take a lot of money and elbow grease to get things back up and running again."
Liam finds it hard to get a good read on he half-elf woman.
Katria smiles at Dame Crabbe.
"Hello. Most of us are cousins, and while we are all family, I can't say our interests always align. Mostly, though, it felt safer to be out of Oppara for a little bit. All people there can talk about is the Exaltation Massacre, which is understandable, but does little for one's sense of safety. It's a fine balancing act, which I'm sure you can appreciate."
Katria fills the woman in on a little more of the gossip, as she tries to get a better handle on her and the best way to answer her question. The woman seems overbearing at least, and Katria wishes she could spend a little time with Sepsinia. That girl seems like she could use some help, or maybe a friend.
"Ah, of course. The whole massacre thing sounds positively dreadful! Fortunately, none of that sort of violence happens around here. In fact, not much at all seems to happen here! It can be downright boring, by all accounts. Perhaps your arrival will help spice things up!"
Katria gets the sense that Dame Crabbe would be bored with anybody taking their noble responsibilities too seriously.