“Ooooo, a Madame, we don’t see y’all much at all. I’d be happy to tell you more about the Doctrine.” Bounding down from his desk, Nyx makes note of the books laying on the counter for him to return to. His clothes are simple, but neatly kept. His culottes look neatly pressed, and the navy vest he wears over his white shirt has a patch sewn in which bears the image of Talmandor. The young halfling motions towards the stairs to the left, walking to the highest of the platforms. “The seating here is pretty unusual. Before the Revolution, this was a dinner theater. It was an usual idea that didn't really catch on with the Chelish. The place went out of business, but it became a meeting ground for early revolutionaries. That was back when people understood the wisdom of Darl Jubbanich’s writings.” Nyx had not heard of a dinner theater before, but the words help her understand the strange combination of restaurant and theater, and that tables are raised to always allow a view of the stage without interference.
The boy leads Nyx through the vestibule, walking down the other side of the raised platform, as the boy points to the bar. “There are several senators that come through here, but with the Senate having a full day session today, the lunch service is mostly aides on food runs. It's unlikely to see an actual senator until dinnertime. My uncle runs this place, you know. He's back whipping the kitchen into shape right now, but he knows several of the Senators personally. I think he could spare a moment for an introduction, he would certainly be able to help you find what you’re looking for.” Nyx could tell the host was trying to make himself sound important, while also pitching the importance of the Doctrine. The host then escorts Nyx towards the tables on the left side, on the main floor (A14), and motions to the table. Two other tables in the place are currently occupied, but every table in the house has place-settings ready to receive diners. “This seat should suit you well. Do you want to be left alone, or would you like for me to call my uncle out for a bit? I’m sure he’d be pleased to have a Madame in the house.”
As she sits, Nyx can hear a commotion coming from the front of the dinner theater: the start of the aforementioned lunch rush. The halfling begins to walk away, menu still in hand. After a few paces, he turns and hustles back to the table. “Ah, of course, the menu! If you would like the buffet, it will be 5 silver. Featured today in the buffet we have fresh baguettes from the Bakers, and a variety of jams for your pleasure. There’s also a scramble up there, with fresh eggs purchased just this morning. You’ll find the rest on the menu."
Nyx hesitates a little bit, taking all the information in as she evaluates possibilities. ”Is it possible to hear from your uncle, or is he too busy with managing the lunch rush?” she asks after a moments reflection.
"I'll check with him," the halfling boy answers, anxiously dancing as he answers, as the sudden rush of noise coming from his post at the entrance. He snaps his fingers at another attendant to bring them over to your table. "Garcon will serve you some wine," he preempts the other
Oscar dashes up the asile and back to the vestibule as dozes of citizens burst into the massive dining hall. Arriving in groups of two to four people; humans, halflings, and more than a few tieflings mixed in. Some seat themselves immediately, but the majority storm the table. None have stopped talking.
"Red or white madame," the waiter offers a polite smile.
-----
Arriving swiftly with a spring in his step and a decanter of Nyx's prefered wine is a middle-aged halfling. His hair is tightly curled like his nephew's, a darker shade of red but the same bulbous nose and bright smile. They could easily be mistaken for father and son. Standing far away at the hall's entrance stands your host Oscar looking on. He holds his thumb in the air full of pride before greeting the next group of men to arrive for lunch.
"Bonjour, madame, et bienvienue! the halfling greets you exhuberantly. He deftly kicks out the stepstool under the booth and climbing up to eye level. Setting a clean glass down, he pours a glass out for Nyx, watching her face to say 'enough' before she can speak it aloud. He seems genuinely enthused to have Nyx in his establishment. He talks the entire time, allowing no rebuttle.
"Madame Illisha, it is an honor, I must appologize in advance madame, my kitchen has been hard at work," setting down the decanter for your meal, he takes the menu from Nyx gently and apologtically. "The food, You must eat from the buffet, it is best. It is delicious, tres bon, I swear, To make something else would be no good, I will have you back, I will make something myself, when my kitchen is in order, The eggs, they are amazing. I insist." Snapping his fingers, he calls over another waiter, who you watch urgently prepare a fresh plate of eggs to bring over. Hey neatly lays a fresh napkin on the table, and sets out sparkling utensils as he does.
"Madame, my kitchen, it is a mess, utterly. I must return, I am so sorry, After lunch, I will return, je suis Marcelle, My staff will see to your needs until I return, One hour, I swear it, We are so happy to have you, Is there anything you need urgently?"
Marcelle's rambling speech stops suddenly. It's clear he has been attempting to hold back Nyx's question as he sets as fancy a place setting as the restaurateur could muster on short notice. A plate of hot fluffy eggs arrive exactly as the man's his offer for a quick question and a side offer to sit down. He folds his empty hands, with a smile teetering on the perfect edge between polite servant and anxious business owner.
"White wine please' Nyx responds smoothly to the waiter.
While she waits, Nyx is content to observe the variety of people who swiftly enter the tavern. She mentally takes note of everyone, trying to see if she recognizes anyone, and storing the memory of anyone she was unfamiliar with.
When Marcelle arrives, Nyx is half amused, half embarrassed by the show of enthusiasm at her presence. She hadn't quite expected such a welcome, and as such, her trademark facade is broken with faint surprise.
"You have been more than kind sir, there is nothing that I would need urgently, just the simple enjoyment of sampling some of your delicious cuisine. Should you find the time, I would be more than happy to speak with you later when things are less busy with the kitchen, please, take your time"
Nyx sits back and as the various lunch-goers come through. The majority of customers seem to just go through the buffet; even those who sit as they enter seem to make their way over when the line dies down. Nyx deduces that the aides stand out, as they rush to fit food in containers and get out the door, with seemingly little interest in sitting down to eat.
As Nyx tries the food the excited halfling insisted she try. The eggs were indeed fresh and surprisingly fluffy. Even for someone of Nyx’s station, eggs were not the kind of food she could have every meal. The cooking was not fine dining to be certain, but little in Galt was.
Watching the crowd, a familiar face enters Talmandor’s Doctrine, and after handing off his silver to Oscar, Damien Martell makes his way to the buffet. There are a few others with him, presumably other aides, none of which seem to be in the furious rush the other aides are.
Nyx closes her eyes, savoring the meal, and eggs accordingly, always appreciating the ability to try good food. She opens her eyes and immediately spots Damien enter alongside his aides.
Nyx debates standing, or even going right over, but doesn't want to look like a starstruck groupie. She did though, shift her position slightly into a more noticeable position, and keeps a close eye on Damien. When the man seems to glance in her general area, she raises a hand in greeting, flashing a welcoming smile, in case the man wanted to approach.
One of the other aides that came in Damien notices Nyx first, and gives a nudge to his associates, who immediately turn their heads to look. They all manage a polite smile, but from Damien, Nyx can see recognition in his eyes. Damien politely excuses himself from his group, and makes his way over to her table by himself.
"Ah Madame Illisha, I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting," Damien says, extending his hand gently in greeting. "An associate of mine has been rather charmed by your beauty and your talent, and rightly so it would seem. His flowery descriptions could scarcely allow me to mistake you for another. I'm sure the staff here have been welcoming, but allow me to offer the greetings on behalf of the many party members who frequent Talmandor's Doctrine." Other patrons pass by as he speaks, and while the booths on the theater floor offer some measure of privacy, Damien is clearly adding another layer of deception. Since the two have absolutely met before, it seems that he is making this out to be a more public introduction. There is a subtle message in his phrasing that Nyx picks up on.
Damien then continues normally, "Unfortunately, I don't have terribly long, the senators will break for lunch soon, and it's best if I have Senator Doucet's food back and we can plan for the afternoon session. I'd be happy to hear how I can be of help and follow up later."
Nyx isn't entirely stupid. She suspects that Damien is immediately concerned that Nyx wants to speak to him about Pauline, and hasn't quite predicted that her reason's for being here are slightly more personal in goal. She therefore isn't surprised by his secret message and nods quickly in acknowledgement.
"Ah, you, and your associate are far too kind, and extremely charming" she responds politely, giving the associate who first spotted her a bit of a flirty wink, playing along with Damien's reason for being there.
"I appreciate the rather warm welcome to Talmandor's Doctrine. Its my first time being here, but I always had a passing interest in learning how politics works - and there is no better place in the city to go for understanding this. Perhaps an afternoon session would be extremely useful, and welcome" Nyx finishes, with a polite smile, before raising her eyebrows slightly.
"Oh, how extremely rude of me, I don't believe I have had the pleasure of getting your name. Who might I be speaking with?" she asks, firming up Damien's attempts to make the meeting seem a first introduction.
Damien made an exaggerated gesture, putting him palm against his forehead, "It was such an opportunity to meet you, I totally forgot my manners. I am Damien Martel, aide to Jaques Doucet, the head of the Parliament Party. I'm thrilled to hear you're having a good experience with us, hopefully the first of many." Damien's exaggerated gesture was certainly a bit much, but his voice was smooth and his motions calculated but seemingly effortless, a contrast from the more confrontational and blatantly honest Damien she first got to know days ago. She was beginning to understand how he earned his prominent position.
"If you would like to set up some time, my schedule is usually booked, but if I understand correctly, curfew is... optional, shall I say, in your parts. I think for such a distinguished guest I could find some time tonight to fill you in on the Parliament Party. I know you say you only have a passing interest, but I'm sure a sensible woman such as yourself will see the value in Golarion's only tested democratic system." Damien finished off his pitch, one he'd certainly given several times, with what sounded like genuine enthusiasm.
As you discuss, you notice Damien's associates have started to gather in a spot a ways back from the table, each one overloaded with a stack of metal trays in their arms. The group seems to be staying far enough back to not eavesdrop on the conversation, but they appear to be waiting on Damien and are eager to get back.
Ah, what a wonderful opportunity that would be, to learn more about such a distinguished political party.” the investigator remarks enthusiastically. ”I was invited back here for dinner, perhaps to get a few introductions, but if you wanted to meet a little later afterwards, they would be perfectly easy for me to manage as well.”
Suddenly, Ishans’s eyes flash with concern. ”Oh dear, I think your associates are eager to return, and are waiting on me. I shouldn’t keep you much longer from your tasks sir. “
"Unfortunately, I'm rather booked over the next few days. Senate being in session really keeps me busy, especially Toilday through Oathday." Damien says, waving off his acquaintances, who step further back.
"If it would not be an inconvenience for you, I could come by your establishment some time after curfew. The Merry Melody, correct? I've no intention of asking you to be out past curfew, madame. And I certainly don't mean to push our meeting past 10 bells, as I'm up quite early. If that's not agreeable, I'm sure I could find some time between Fireday and Moonday." Damien grabs his own metal containers and stands up to assuage the eager junior aides.
"Its the Unchained Melody" Nyx corrects, fully aware that Damien is deliberately fluffing the name on purpose to pretend to be ill informed.
"I'm sure I could fit that time though into my schedule, the Melody is still open around that time" Nyx answers honestly, giving the time a moments thought as she appears to mentally review her timetable.
"Perhaps I'll see you then sir" Nyx finshes, letting Damien leave freely if he needs to.
"Excellent! I shall you later tonight Madame. I hope you enjoy the rest of your time here at the Doctrine, and look forward to speaking with you further." Damien says his good bye pleasantries and makes his way to the table, carrying his metal containers and filling up the bowls from the buffet. Once he is done, the gaggle of aides gather around him to make their way back to the Senate.
Nyx finishes her food and waits as the lunch rush draws to a close. As the Doctrine's staff start to break down the buffet, Marcelle comes out of the back of the Doctrine once more. He is still excited, but flustered. "Madame, you have been a most gracious guest," the halfling speaks much more slowly than before, not intending to hold Nyx's interjections as he did before she was properly served. "I do hope you enjoyed the eggs. Please, you must allow me to cook you a proper meal. Perhaps on the weekend, when the restaurant isn't overrun by frenzied aides, and kitchen isn't in such disarray from serving them."
Nyx bowed her head slightly at the halfling who arrives, after observing Damien leave minutes before. "Yes, perhaps at a less busy time, I might come around and have a meal where I'm not pushed for time. I will almost certainly return, this place is rather lovely, and I do like the various influential people that look like are coming by every now and again."
"You're welcome anytime, where I'm concerned," the halfling says as he refills Nyx's glass with wine. "Simply send a messenger when you would like to enjoy a repas spécial, madame, and I shall prepare it for you. You're welcome to stay, and we shall keep your glass full as long as you do. I must warn you though madame, that the aides return near sundown with their bosses, and the hall becomes quite boisterous."
Marcelle bows and returns to the kitchen. The last few arriving aides are gathering their boss' meals and leaving in all haste. Nyx is welcome to stay, but the hall has otherwise emptied of all patrons.
Nyx nods to the halfling with a grateful smile. "I wouldn't mind seeing this place where everything is in full swing. I throw the odd boisterous party myself at the Melody so it might be nice to see how the senators enjoy a good party." she smiles, winking slightly.
"I don't like being in anyone's debt for long, but I do feel indebted to you Marcelle, and your nephew for your kind hospitality towards me, and humoring my questions while I enjoy your fine food. So, perhaps you will allow me to return again tonight and enjoy a longer meal perhaps?"
Nyx waits until after Marcelle is gone, and sips her wine, which she deeply enjoys. She isn't tardy with her time, but she does want to give the impression that she is still staying for the food and drink rather than for any ulterior motives. That said, she feels there is little to accomplish with the place becoming more quiet, and eventually leaves, attempting to locate Noir de la Cible as her next errand for the day.
The halfling nephew graciously accepts Nyx silver on her way out, and he certainly remembers to extend another invitation to return.
In air in the early afternoon is still growing warmer with the season, and the sky above has scattered clouds that the bright rays of the sun. Down in the streets, the noise is boisterous as Nyx makes her way further and further south. Ruffians and guards walk the streets, while gutters house more and more beggars with each passing block. Before long, Nyx crosses the same wide street where she'd spotted the Gardeners out late the night before.
Noir de la Cible's neighborhood is particularly destitute. Instead of sitting on the side of the street looking pitiful, the vagrants here are much more active in their efforts; they approach Nyx quite closely, their dirty hands and stench reach out to beg for copper pennies. When Nyx finally arrives on the block, she spots the rather large building the laundry woman had described. The location has all the windows covered with metal bars, and there are rails for a metal grate around the door. Above to door to the run-down winery is a big wooden sign bearing the image of a wine jug, and sitting in the entrance is an imposing man, bulky, and the vagrants seem to stay several feet away from the entrance.
Seeing the state of the neighborhood and the store itself, it is no surprise to Nyx why the store is known for its inexpensive product. As Nyx approaches the entrance the low-end shop, the bouncer seems surprised, and grins as he waves Nyx in.
Nyx pauses, ready to enter the shop, before pausing slightly, as if inspiration had struck.
"Actually, you look like an observant guy, you might be able to help me with something" she begins, giving the man an appraising look as if she is assessing whether he would be eligible for the task.
"I'm a bit of what you might call a working girl, and I have a client I know as Stephan. He's err, tends to look a little gaunt, gangly, long black hair, likes the red wine here, do you know him?" Nyx asks, checking to see if the bouncer actually knows who she is talking about continuing.
If the bouncer does so, she continues on.
"Anyway, Stefan's always been nice, a little lacking in some areas, but always high on enthusiasm, that, and he pays well" Nyx continues, sharing a little 'guy' joke at the mans apparent inferiority to try and establish some rapport with the bouncer with some light amusement at the mans expense. Nyx calculates that a guy like Stefan might choose to act superior towards those he perceives as his lesser's, which might make a bouncer more including to poke fun at his expense.
"That said, an old boyfriend of mine found out that I see Stefan somewhat frequently, and got a little jealous. I'm a little worried that he might be trying to track Stefan down, and I'm worried that he might start here, where Stefan is a bit of a repeat customer. Do you..do you think you could let me know, if anyone starts asking about him, over the next few weeks? I'd rather not tell him myself in case it causes him undue worry, but I'd probably like a heads up to see if my ex lets it go or not. In fact, has anyone been asking about him recently at all, just in case I got beaten to the err, punch as it were? I'm happy to pay some coin for your trouble" Nyx responds, trying to come across as anxious and helpful as possible, stepping a little closer and giving the man a good view down her top as she opens up her purse. Nyx is careful to show the purse being as empty as possible, only showing a few gold coins to make it look as if she had limited funds available, so that the bouncer wouldn't feel entitled to push his luck and charge through the nose for the information.
The bouncer at the door listens blankly at Nyx as she lays out her 'quandary.' He looks up once to stare down a vagrant who tries to approach a little too closely. As the request comes to an end, the man's blank stare betrays little. There's not much understanding on the bouncer's part, he has a basic grasp of what Nyx is asking. He wordlessly points deeper in the building, to a shelf within where someone is clearly working.
The warehouse staging floor is rather small considering the exterior size. While the storage area can't be seen, at capacity the building could probably stock three galleons with the basic rotgut that sits on its shelves. As Nyx rounds the corner to the shelf the bouncer pointed out, she sees a lean, yet muscular half-orc woman. She gives Nyx a polite smile and continues her task, taking a set of identical jugs out of a stack of crates, and setting them up on the highest shelf. Finishing the last few bottles, she takes the empty crate off the top of the stack and slides it down the aisle. Before starting on the next crate, she looks up to see Nyx still standing there. "Can I help ye' missy," she asks impolitely.
Nyx's appeal goes much quicker to the half-orc, who listens but unconsciously shifts at the length, forcing Nyx to get to the point. She grins at the appearance of silver, and starts her work again as she starts to answer, forcing Nyx to move about the aisles littered with crates to be restocked just to hear her response.
"I know Stephan," she starts, slow-rolling out her answer despite her impatience at Nyx's exposition. "Can't imagine anyone jealous enough to try anything on a man in his position. You're the first person I've had ask about him, but I don't know about reporting on the man's whereabouts to some floozy I don't know."
Nyx shrugs, looking unconcerned at the woman’s answer. ”If you don’t want to help, that’s fine, but all I’m asking for is just learning if anyone asks about Stephen in the next couple of weeks or so. You said it yourself, no one ever asks about him anyway, so if someone does, it’s prkbably my ex. Still, it’s your call” Nyx finishes, sweeping up her purse. She didn’t want to argue the point- it would only make the request seem more significant and therefore more suspicious.
"Wait," the half-orc lets out a resigned sigh just as Nyx is about to leave. She tilts her head toward a doorway to the back room and leads Nyx just out of sight of the main floor.
Very few other customers are in the store at this early hour. A human man with calloused hands perusing the aisle of clear liquor bottles sees Nyx pass and gives her a customary nod before he returns to his shopping. Up at the front, one of the vagrants up at the front trying to bargain with the person behind the counter. The half-orc stops just short of the back room.
"Five gold, and I'll tell you what I know," the shopkeep offers. "But if he comes in, and you want a report, I'll need ten more...and a name."
As she extends the offer, the half-orc woman watches the shop's staging area over Nyx's shoulder, careful to not be overheard. Her price seems a little high, but it seems to come from a sense of paranoia about Nyx, the danger that Stephan represents as a government official, and a desperation for the extra coin. Despite her towering height and beefy muscles, she does seem far more open to a counter-offer than the Vice agents Nyx spoke to earlier.
Nyx lightly chuckles at the half-Orcs final request. You and I know Stephen has a thing for details, but he doesn’t go to The Bastion of Freedom for any mental gymnastics it offers, he goes to blow of some steam with as many woman as he can. In all honesty, Stephen isn’t going to know my birth name, and if he’s concentrating on remembering my stage name when i’m with him, I’m probably not being very good at my job” Nyx muses before lightly smiling
”Or then again, maybe good at my job. Anyway, you have my appearance, and you could probably hazard a guess at my measurements as well, things Stephen will more likely remember. Still, I know you have his interests at heart. Ten gold up front for you to tell me what you know, and another ten should my ex come around”
The half-orc takes another look over Nyx shoulder to make sure they weren't overheard. "Fine, ten gold," she holds her palm out, but she fights back a grin that offers a hint, that her clue may not be worth what Nyx is offering. "And I need a name. If your ex comes around and breaks anything, I'm gonna find you and collect that ten gold, plus any damages."
Nyx is supremely unconcerned about the half-orc thinking she had the easier deal. In truth, she didn't think that this place could offer her much at all, but pretending that the chance didn't exist seemed wasteful. "Fine, Chloe." she remarks smoothly, counting out the ten gold, before the half-orc could change her mind.
"Stephan only used to come in every month or so" the half-orc woman starts as she swiftly pockets the gold. With the coins in her possession and out of view, her stance relaxes. "He'd get a bottle or two of our cheapest. Seemed to me he was at the end of his monthly stipend and needed a drink. One day he came in looking for a free bottle, but we just kicked him out. Before then we had no idea that he worked for the Hall of Justice, but I find that getting thrown out into the street makes people call out the names of their powerful friends. Sometimes its the gods, sometimes its the Caydogs. But its almost never someone from the Monolith." As she talks, you can see the half-orc fiddling with the gold in her pocket. She's suspicious enough to want to test its quality, but not brave enough to pull it out into the open to bite it.
"Anyways, we didn't think much of it, but sure enough, Stephan comes back in the very next week. He spent at least twenty gold, if my memory's any good. He just wanted to prove that he could."
"We started to see him more and more after that. One day, he comes to me with a request: he wants some of the rotgut sold in the fancy bottles." the woman points up above where she's standing. Just inside the back room on a shelf out of reach, Nyx spots a few cases of much finer vintage, which she immediately recognizes. While the wine on the top shelf is far from the best, it is the only liquid she's noticed in the place that might be suitable to serve at the Melody.
" 'That's illegal,' I tell him, 'and we've got trouble enough with the guild,' " the large, green-skinned woman leans in closer to whisper. Nyx can smell strong liquor on her breath as she speaks. "So then he tells me he wants to buy the empty bottles so he can pour in the swill at home." At that revelation, she leans back, letting the audacity of the rude act sink in.
"So I scare up what he wants. It's not illegal, but is sure is scummy. Must be saving him a good deal of coin, though. He comes in about twice a month for a case of the swill, and has us put a sack over top of it. Once its out the door, its none of my business what he does with it."
Nyx nods her head, not looking that surprised at the revelation. It was always nice to get a little more detail, as well as confirmation of the rumor that she had heard about.
She runs the chain of events back through her mind, Stephan living a lavish lifestyle purchasing time with various courtesans and purchasing a bottle of cheap wine, then coming into some money and spending up large, and then coming up with his scam, perhaps to finance his lifestyle. Noe of this meant that Stephen was in someone elses pocket, but it did mean that his lifestyle was expensive, and weaknesses Nyx could always exploit.
Nyx makes her excuses and leaves swiftly, heading towards her next errand.
Nyx decides to leave the Stephen problem for another day, until she has more leads. Still disguised, she begins to make enquires about Julie, to see if she could learn more about the performer.
Venturing back to the north toward the theater, Nyx keeps an eye out for what she knows will be some of the most recent information about the goings on in the world of the thespians. At the very least, once she could find a copy, she'd have something to go on that wouldn't cost her more than a silver piece. As the river draws closer, she begins to hear the familiar calls of the young criers. For the price of a silver piece, Nyx obtains the most recent copy of the 'Voice of the Revolution.' Flipping the broadsheet over, she finds the ads for the plays, and the familiar musings of occasional Melody patron Terance Beauchemin.
Trampling on Culture by TB
Kicked out of an orphanage at 11, I once spent a Rova night sleeping along the Kantele without so much as a burlap scarf. That was the worst Starday of my life until this week, where my eyes were assaulted by the botched stylings of the cast of When Gods Fall. The lack of music and emotion indicates to me that Isarn itself must have earned the ire The Eternal Rose to be cursed with such a terrible cast. Your three silver pieces would be better spent paying an orphan to chase a raccoon around the square than paying to see When Gods Fall. Should anyone in the audience find their way to the Boneyard, please pass this reviewer's sincere condolences to Indageous Vonor.
Playing through Gozran:
Margaery’s Playhouse presents: The Third Crusade
Only at La Chambre des Classiques: Red Snow Falling starring Julie Goudeaux, playing Oathday-Sunday, matinée on Moonday at 2 bells.
Although it's likely that the half-elf has at least one rehearsal today, it appears that Julie's current show doesn't take the stage until Oathday. Nyx knows La Chambre des Classiques, a small and classy playhouse in Vielle Ville, not too terribly far from the Melody.
Unable to learn anything on Julie, Nyx heads back to the Melody for an afternoon training session with Sabine, trying to ensure that her second in command can eventually manage the Melody in her absence.
Nyx made her way back to the Melody from the theater district to find the venue a bit out of sorts. Nyx’s past few days of absence seem to have resulted in some work being done carelessly; currently, Gaspard is walking the floor with a guest but has failed to call someone over to staff the main desk. As Nyx enters, he excuses himself politely, and rushes over to take care of the matter he carelessly left.
Nyx remembers back to how the Plunging Blade was run by Madame Roulier. She had placed Fiona as second in command, with Fiona often fully managing the off hours. Until recently, that was Nyx’s role at the Unchained Melody. Seeing the area and assessing her newfound responsibilities it becomes clear that it is time to invest in training another manager of the Melody. Nyx sees Sabine as the obvious choice, she already trusts the courtesan the most, and as she is the oldest, she has taken on a bit of a maternal role. She finds Sabine sketching in her studio, but the sculptor graciously sets her preliminary work aside to discuss a new role and the increased responsibility that accompanies it.
Nyx begins with basic management duties. Sabine is already very skilled at handling the courtesan schedules and the various outside staff that clean and provide maintenance. Nyx covers some of her own schedule with Sabine as well, planning to hand off administrating most of the outside staff. After walking Sabine through the Melody covering each section of the Melody, several hours had passed, and the evening rush was about to begin.
Nyx returns to the Melody during the evening rush, keeping a close eye out for any tricky situations that required her management skills. She decides against going to the Doctrine for the day, deciding to go at a different day to prevent any observers spotting a particular pattern.
Nyx mentors Sabine in the signature brand of welcoming in customers and arranging for their courtesans to receive them in a subtle way that makes it seem as if the courtesans were waiting for them all along, even for walk-ins. While Sabine is very familiar with the process, Nyx offers a good deal of insight about reading the customers in a way that serves to maximize curation of art for those in the market to buy, and companion pairing for those who simply want some of the artist's time. While a lot of the walking around and 'teaching' Sabine is really covering things that are already her duties (although now covered in more depth) there is an element of pageantry to the mentoring, a way of letting the other courtesans know the new arrangement without the need to be explicit.
Lastly, while Sabine knows mechanics of the magic system at the front desk: pressing a button that will chimes in a courtesan’s room magically, Nyx very ceremoniously hands off a new magical trinket, a tiny magic device that triggers the same system, but could fit in one’s pocket. The little trinket was no major magical feat, it helped sell the Unchained Melody’s aesthetic. It was also the device which Madame Ouilette gave to Nyx when she took the role, a sort of unofficial badge of office.
Approximately half an hour after most of the customers had arrived and been received, around nine o’clock, Damien enters the Melody’s waiting area still wearing his clothes from work, and while he’s certainly freshened up since work, you can tell his Toilday has indeed been full of toil. “Good evening Madame Illisha, would now be a good time for our chat? I’m excited to fill you in on all the Parliamentary Party has to offer our nation!”
"Of course, that would be most educational" Nyx responds in a delighted tone, gliding elegantly gliding across the Melody floor to gracefully take Damien's hand.
"You look as if you have had quite the draining day, perhaps you might be in need of refreshment?" she asks, lightly directing the man towards her private studio.
The studio was Nyx's old chambers when she was a regular courtesan, and before she had taken up full management of the Melody. It now acted as a private space for discussions with clients, as well as a place for Nyx to paint and still be freely interrupted by staff if required - as her private rooms were off limits to clients and staff alike. The room still contained items that betrayed its prior use - such as a bed in the corner, a couch in the other, but it was mostly full of painting accessories, canvas, paints and so on.
In the center of the room is Nyx's currently unfinished painting destined for the House of Joy / Court of Bees. Nyx had gone back and forth on the topic, but decided to stay true to the roots as to what was still important to her. The predominant part of the painting, contained a single wasp, flying towards an open rose in full bloom. Where the center of the flower would be, there was instead a birds eye view of La Lumière Rouge, with the House of Joy being painted to be prominent. Off to one side, there is a deeply attractive female dressed in typical Calistrian attire. The clothing was revealing, and alluring, but not exceptionally explicit as Nyx wasn't sure where the picture would be displayed. Nyx left it ambiguous as to who the women was, herself, Madame Lacroix or even Calistria herself, but she did include a few subtle physical characteristics of Madame Lacroix, to at least point the viewer in that direction, without being obvious.
Nyx crosses the floor, and sits lightly on the couch, indicating to Damien to shut the door, pouring herself a glass of wine for herself, and another one for Damien if he so indicated.
Damien enters Nyx's chamber closing the door behind him. Damien gives the room only the most cursory look, but dwells briefly on Nyx's new painting, "Trying to score some points with the Court of Bees? Seems like it will appeal to their sensibilities. You're quite talented, if I may say so." He picks up the glass Nyx offers, though he does not yet take a sip.
"I appreciate your discretion during our little run-in, but today has been fairly long, and I am poised for an even busier tomorrow. I do appreciate the opportunity for a short respite, but you'll have to pardon my directness. I've never heard of you visiting the Doctrine before, Madame Illisha, and from the splash you made today, I am sure a prior visit would have reached my ears. It's my suspicion that you haven't been stricken by a sudden interest in promoting parliamentary government. Though if I am wrong, I'd be happy to tell you more about our cause, as I ostensibly came here to do. Was there something in particular you were looking for? "
Nyx gives him a quizzical frown. ”I don’t think I made that much of a splash today, but you are correct that it was my first visit to the Doctrine. I stopped by, because while I have no desire to be a politician, I want a stable Galt. It’s good business after all. So, being slightly influential I thought that I would check out some of the political parties involved in Galt and see if I could lend some support to that cause”
"No, not a big splash," he says dismissively. "Aides are just all overworked, and some were bound to notice a woman such as yourself. You were very reserved, which I appreciate. I've worked for many years to get to my position in the party, and I didn't want to raise any questions about other connections."
"You'd shown no prior interest, so I am surprised, pleasantly mind you, by your newfound interest after our other undertaking together." A grin spreads across the aide's face, "I would love to fill you in on the Parliament Party; I'll start with the canned version first. The party's focused interest is getting to the fastest point of stability using the powers of the Senate. Unfortunately, our detractors are ideologues seeking more drastic changes." Damien waves his glass as he speaks, though he has yet to sip from it.
"I know Goss tries to stoke fear about them, but Andoran has proven that a parliamentary system can work, and their principles are built on the back of On Government by a father of our revolution. I cannot imagine a better argument than we already know it works. This idea of democracy is young in our world, we're just trying to be practical and give it the best chance to succeed. After thirteen different councils all trying different nonsense and ideologies, we just ask for something that we know works, and can get us out from this bloody mess. Which reminds me," Damien reaches into his satchel and fetches an old book, a copy of Darl Jubbanich's seminal work. He sets it neatly on the desk, and sits back in his seat and takes a sip of his wine. "Not a terribly compelling read, unless legal and ethical polemics are up your alley. But I digress. I'm happy to dive to a deeper level, but before that I want to address any specific questions you might have."
Nyx considers Damien for a moment, deep in thought. "I'm going to be candid, because I think a person in your position isn't used to people speaking openly and I imagine that it gets tiresome from time to time"
"I'm vaguely familiar with the fairy-tale stories of the various political groups active in this city. I'm roughly up to date with the basic goals of each group as well. So, you don't need to sell me on your particular ideology" Nyx says with a smile "I went to the Doctrine today, because I already believed your party offers one of the better solutions to the problems Galt faces. That said, I'm not a politician, and I don't know what barriers your party has. That's primarily why I went to the Doctrine today - to learn."
"If you're looking to ingratiate yourself to the party, I'd suggest you take a look at that book. It covers our most basic principles, and it has iconic ideas that started the Revolution. Ideas are powerful, and artists have the power to sway sentiments in powerful, but less obvious ways than politicians. If you, or your artists, were to be responsible for works that were either overtly or covertly in favor of the Parliamentary Party, Once we arrange for you to meet some of our senators, some will try and test you on it, both as a way to flaunt their own expertise and as a way to see if you are dedicated. I'm not trying to give you the run around, especially if you're interested in the party, it's just a matter of making sure those same senators will be interested in speaking to you if you're already showing your support. Especially if you were to invite them to gala to unveil the works, I'm sure you'd be able to garner favor by doing so." Damien took another sip of his wine, placing the glass on the table. "My employer, Jacques Doucet, is the current leader of the party, but if you want to know who's leaning which way and what they're interested in and how to keep them in line. We have the largest party, so there are still several members, even in the diminished Senate, and as much as several Senators would like to believe they can throw their weight around, I do my job well, and the party tends to stay in order."
"I might recommend thinking about 'what you want'," Damien continues. "I know your actual interests here, and others will likely suspect the same. However, people are going to ask you what you're looking for and they'll need an acceptable answer. Something in the realm of minor legislative matters, or even lofty aspirations. One thing people will want you for is your connection to the Court, and the Court themselves have probably heard of your visit, not that they'll mind. So much easier to say: 'I wanted it to be easier to get a permit for a public art instillation' or 'the Court needs an increase in annual finery permit allocations.' On second though, probably best not to throw the Court's weight around until you can actually direct it. It has to be something for you or your business."
"There's voting tomorrow, but I could arrange a small brunch on Starday, if you could find a few hours before noon." Then, Damien reaches into a pocket and pulls out a small slip of paper. "Before I forget, a more pressing bit of business. Our shorter friend has a penchant for the dramatic. He was going to slip you this note, but I figured it best I just deliver it, as I'd be making my way through anyhow. It's the location for our meeting tomorrow evening. It's a long abandoned bakery in the Wine District."
Wealday
'Cerise sur le Dessus'
-LQV
Nyx listens thoughtfully, letting the information sink into her mind, already deciding how best to manipulate this new dynamic to her advantage.
"It would be a relatively simple matter for me to paint something in favor of the Parliamentary Party. I couldn't promise the rest of the Melody's artists would follow suit - I leave their political views to themselves - but perhaps by leading by example some of my artists could be encouraged to follow suit. I'll see what I could do about another social event for Parliamentary Party members - but only if I could ensure the works on display were of sufficient quality."
"I agree with you though, in that I'd prefer to avoid throwing the Courts name around. If people want to use me as an avenue or connection to the court - then fine, but I'd prefer to list my aspirations that would benefit the Melody directly, the idea being that I could balance
the political aspirations of the Parliamentary Party, with the business and religious aspirations of the Court. I'm happy to attend a quick brunch on Starday, and of course, I'll be available to meet without dramatic friend tomorrow"
"I can see about setting up the brunch. Just make sure to give some thought to your answers before then." Damien exchanges some quick pleasantries with Nyx. "I've a long day tomorrow, and there's the whole night ahead as well, so if there's nothing else, I'll be off." He bowed politely as he left Nyx's office and made his way out of the Melody.
As Nyx started to prepare for the night, there was she hears a commotion from the halls beyond her door. Angry footfalls make their way to her door followed by heavy rapping on her door. Behind it was Sabine, she seemed rather uncomfortable and nervous. "Sorry to bother you Madame, but we have a delinquent customer who's trying to abscond without paying Crystal." With the door open, Nyx can hear Crystal shouting, her voice carrying through the halls.
Nyx took the book in her hand when Damien left, and idly flicks through the pages. Nyx was heavily focused on appearances, and she knew that eventually (perhaps at a future social event) her answers to some of the questions asked of her might indirectly reflect back on Damien - especially if he used some of his influence to smooth her way. Almost never choosing to sleep until all the clients had left the building, or her staff were safe and accounted for, Nyx is mostly prepared by the time she hears the footfalls outside.
"Its quite alright Sabine, you did the right thing" Nyx remarks warmly, quickly trying to reassure the woman. Even though she was working on training Sabine further, she still wanted her staff to know that she was approachable and always available for escalations such as this.
"Did we manage to get the customer's name?" Nyx asks swiftly moving down the stairs in the direction of Crystal's room, with Sabine close behind.
"We got his name, but it won't mean anything to you madame. He's a merchant traveling from Numeria to Taldor, he said he was Rolug Kuldar. He had finery on, so we expected him to be good for the coin, even had the papers for a merchant." Sabine says frantically as the group is making the way up to Crystal's room.
The name alone doesn't mean much to Nyx, but she's heard the surname Kuldar before, it was associated with a tribe of Sellen river pirates. Nyx had overheard heard it during a polite chat with Alkos Fenn about his business. As she approaches Crystal's room Nyx hears the courtesan struggling, but turns the corner only to find a large Kellid man with tight cropped hair and his boots and vest made of suede, and a silk shirt just making his way towards to door with as Crystal clung to him, pulling on the tall man fairly ineffectually as he was making his way out of the Melody.
"Rolug Kuldar, my name is Nyx Illisha" Nyx announces as she sweeps herself to smoothly impose herself between the exit, trying to make the movement look as natural as possible.
"You look like an intelligent man with an excellent sense of fashion, so I'm a little puzzled why you seem to have given my staff the impression you would leave this establishment without first giving up something of value? Would you be prepared to briefly shed some light on this mystery for me. Perhaps in my office?" Nyx finishes, careful to not immediately leap onto accusations, and giving the man room to explain herself, but she keeps her tone as firm as possible.
Rolug looks ahead to regard Nyx, "This place is yours?" The man's accent is thick, and by some of the full throated sounds, Nyx can easily tell that his native tongue is Hallit. "You must be Madame. Lovely to meet you."[/b] The man makes some sounds as if politely considering the request, "It seem that Crystal has soured on me. We can talk in your office.", he says as he winks back towards the young courtesan, who stands in the hallway nearby, surrounded by some of the other Melody workers. She bristles at the man's expression, and folds her arms defensively. Rulog smiles and nods, seemingly ready to follow Nyx.
"Yes, the Melody is mine" Nyx responds simply, gesturing Rolug in the direction of her office and closing the door behind him. She settles down in her chair before gazing at Rolug.
"As I said sir, I'm a little puzzled why you seem to be anxious to leave this establishment without a donation to the Melody. If you could clear up this misunderstanding, I would be very grateful" Nyx remarks simply, keeping her attention on the man.
Rolug looks around Nyx's office, hearing out her question. He lets out a deep belly laugh before responding. "Sorry for my laughter. You are talking so... diplomatic. I'm stealing from you, but you're just being very nice." He lets out another chuckle. "I thought Galt would be so many cutthroats. On the streets this seems true, but you have a nice place."
The broad man studies Nyx for a moment. "I'm a plain-speaking man. You and your establishment have made a fine impression. I would like to share how I see the situation." The man seem carefree and brazen despite happily sharing his intent to take from you. You don't sense any anxiety in the man at the moment.
Nyx seriously considers switching to speaking Hallit but decides not to at this time. There would be opportunities to impress later if need be, and besides, Nyx still liked keeping things about herself hidden if possible. More than once she had gained advantage over someone thinking her ignorant in a particular way of communication and sometimes old habits died hard.
So after a moment, Nyx smiles politely "Flattery is always welcome, but frequently lacks value. Still, I'm glad that myself and the Melody agreed with you. Still, it is getting late, and the interaction tonight was disruptive for some of my staff, so if you could speak plainly, and share how you see the situation, I would appreciate it."
"I am a pirate, I like to take the things I want. Much more money taking what you want, and saying sorry if you need to." The man chortles as if reveling in his thievery. "You see, though, I like this place. You seem competent, but you're tired from a long day. Trying to fight this out is no good for either of us. So I pay you something extra and we forget about all this, yes?" He takes a deep whiff of the room, noting the scent before continuing, "Your office smells a little like my chemist's lab. You hide the smell better. I think I have just the thing for you." The man reaches into his sack and pulls out a small wand-looking device.
"This is a medlance. We smuggle technology out of Numeria from the Technic League dogs. It makes easier to use potions or your..." he struggles to come up with a word, "chemist fluid." Nyx realizes he probably means extracts, but doesn't know the Taldan word for it. "It only has ten uses, but my chemist says this is his favorite technology. This worth more than Crystal's time, no?" Though Nyx has no idea what the medlance is worth off-hand, she knows that technology outside of Numeria is exceedingly rare.
Nyx frowns at the man, calculating various options. She doesn't really want to turn the situation violent, and the medlance did look to be exceptionally valuable - or at least the technology was.
"Crystal is one of our better courtesan's - its hard to put a price on her time" she remarks slowly, reflecting on things. "That said, the Melody does accept alternative forms of payment and this would be suitable. I'm willing to accept your offer - on one condition - you repair things in some way with Crystal."
Nyx holds up a quick hand, forestalling any quick objections. "Appearances are important, and a client storming out of the room implies that my staff have done a poor job. Now I know that you are just the sort of man who takes what he likes but walking out reflects on Crystal - and then by extension the Melody."
"So, your payment is acceptable to me, but I would recommend you try and make a brief statement or gesture to fix how things looked tonight. It doesn't have to be an apology, but you look to be a smart, charming guy. I'm sure there is something simple you could think up to ensure no-one gets the wrong idea that Crystal (or the Melody) is poor at what it does."