"Well, I guess I could go."
"If only to pull a hilarious prank or two on the Stormblades."
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When Gretchen comes downstairs in the morning he wakes up, slightly bleary eyed and confused by his surroundings.
"Ahh... sorry mum. I was walking the streets and kind of just needed somewhere normal to be. Patch said something about the courtyard being flooded? Do you need some help drying things out?"
After spending a couple of hours helping out and catching up with his little brothers and sisters, JJ makes his excuses and heads back toward his apartment. On the way his clothes again are soaked, but glancing at the cross streets, he is relieved to see the edge of the lake looks to have receded back.
Once at his apartment he politely knocks, and waits for Sara or Tessa to let him in.
"Sorry about last night. Things got a little hectic yesterday." he apologises to the women.
"I just came to get some fresh clothes, as these... well, they have some poor memories associated with them now. "
He pulls up a chair at the table and sits down. "I have a couple of other things to ask you. I know Oren's death is still fresh. If you want I know one of the priestesses at Abdar's temple. I'm sure she would say some words for him. Dying defending his business puts him squarely in Abdar's care I'm thinking..."
He pauses a bit, keen to learn their thinking on the matter.
"I know it might be too soon... but I have an invitation to a ball at the mayors residence..." he looks at both Sara and Tessa. "and I was wondering if Sara would like to go... that is if you are okay with her attending Tessa."
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As Jenya speaks of her promotion to the head of the Church at St Cuthbert, Ryan gives a formal bow of respect to her, as to the head of the church. She had been one of his mentors and she deserved the respect even if the formal ceremony had not been performed.
"Congratulations Mistress, a well deserved position, unfortunate the circumstances that preceded it though. As for familial duty, mine is strangely enough to the church. Although my uncle wishes for me to speak with his mine employees concerning the church and the duty to church, state, and family. I'm not sure either will be completely happy with that speech.
And I would like to continue with my duty to the church, however I think at this point in time MY duty lies with my companions. Abadar has seen fit to grace us with his blessings within the troubles we have found beneath Cauldron, something is not well here and we need to follow the path to whatever or whomever the path leads."
Ryan grabs a chair and sits with his beer as Kikinnin speaks of his doubts about attending the ball, while Marigold and Juraan would likely go. JJ almost would surely go, almost as surely as Maxim wished not to go. Ryan would not press him further on the subject.
"Lyssa has the right of it Kikinnin, a snub from the brothers Malachite would be worse than if you'd walked up and slapped him with your glove. These events are a social gathering yes, I should know, while my bloodlines are not of the town founders such as JJ, or as long lived as your own dwarven ancestry, they have run within the circles of the nobility since we came during my great-great-great grandfather's time."
Taking a moment to draw from his mug, and get the waitress's attention he continues.
"A social event yes, to see and be seen, but also a place where deals are made and alliances are forged. We've drawn somebody's eye as the invitations are indicative of, and yes the Stormblades will likely do their best to make a fool of any of us who show. They are worried as we take jobs to help people; not just for the money or the glory, and that is a foreign thought to them. Glory and standing are the only things they wish for that is what others see, whereas honor and duty are things others beneath them must deal with in their eyes. I will go, not to defend against their falsehoods but to watch and learn from the nobles in attendance.
The troubles we have dealt with are not the machinations of the poor, but someone with power has to be behind it. So I go to see if I can determine who."
Eventually JJ makes his way back to the tavern. His eyes are red, as one who has either not slept enough, or perhaps had too much to drink. Still, there is no sour ordure to his breathe and his gait, while tired, is steady.
He slips into a seat at the table, ordering a drink and a pie.
"Sorry, been round and about, visiting Gretechn and my little brothers and sisters. " he pulls out his purse to pay for the meal, and notes its unhappy lightness.
"I don't suppose one of you industrious folk sold the stuff we picked up underground did you? I suppose we should go tell the guard about that fish-man, although I'm not sure the guard is really equipped to deal with someone who can charm them... just like they couldn't deal with that vampire."
Surrounded by warmth, food, ale and friends, his innate cheerfulness starts to exert itself.
"So... who is going as what to the ball? I'm going to have to go as a Surabar, although I'm guessing one of the stormblades will be attending as my great great grandfather."
"D-dull?" Marigold responds, looking a little puzzled. "D-dull as in...nothing st-strange has happened w-with him? Or d-dull as in he d-doesn't seem like h-himself?" she asks, now looking a bit concerned.
"Th-that's s-something I d-didn't think of," Marigold admits as Ryan shares his own reasons for wishing to attend the ball. "B-but you've g-got a good p-point...m-maybe we can find s-some things out wh-while we're there."
She shakes her head. "As to wh-who I'll dress up as...I have n-no idea! I'll have t-to think on it I g-guess."
Maxim flashes a hard grin at his Uncle and chinks glasses;
"Aye I reckon so... Coin is coin..."
The gun-mage takes a sip, then taps his own belt;
"Speakin' o which I've a mind to purchase that Mithril Chain you've been holdin' for me... What did we say again? 1100 Gold?"
His last comment is accompanied by a wry smile, and another proposed toast.
"Just make sure that nobody who seals the entrance actually goes in."
We damn near got killed there several times. Lucky to survive, we were!"
He'll also try to convince Terseon to make it a heavy door that can only be opened from the outside.
Just on the off chance anyone on Cauldron business needs to go back.
One key should be given to Juraan, of course.
"I hope me and my friends won't need to go back down there, of course."
"But it's prudent to have that option."
"We did learn some nasty pieces of work from deep in the earth made their way up there."
"I'll even contribute out of my own pocket, if that helps."
There's a good bit of luck!
After conducting his business, and resting up, Juraan joins the others at the tavern.
"Sounds like Gretchyn is taking things pretty well, actually."
"Terseon Skellerang promises me he'll see to sealing the entrance to that chamber."
"That will be one less leaky hole to worry about. For now."
"Haven't decided what pranks", Juraan coughs with feigned innocence, er … to use for that fancy dress ball."
"And what are your plans now?"
Kikinnin looks to excuse himself courteously, until the priestess addresses him with a question. "Oh, I'm not so sure. Probably inquire with Vhalantru about more work in getting rid of vermin beneath our Lady Cauldron, I suppose. The others are getting excited about the Demonskar Ball, but I can't think of much reason to go, myself. I'm not one who takes a shine to pompous, pretentious patriarchs. Don't suppose you have any errands you need doing?"
"Lyssa has the right of it, Kikinnin. A snub from the brothers Malachite would be worse than if you'd walked up and slapped him with your glove."
Kikinnin finishes his throat's pull on a goodly amount of ale, before answering the priest. "Oh, I'm sure they'll understand, if I have more important work to tend to. Never having met a sober Aslaxin, I'm sure they won't miss me, if they don't remember me." The black-beard chuckles, then chugs. He raises his mug in Maxim's direction.
"What say you, Bror? You hoping to avoid an affront to Aslaxin, Maxim? There might be business men there, to help you in your trade..."
After the morning helping in the orphanage the conversation with Tessa and Sara is very relaxing.
When prompted about having some words said for Oren, Tessa gently nods "That would be very kind. Oren has always respected the god of merchants" she then smiles after the party proposal.
Sara blushes and looks at her mother for approval, then says "Yes, that will be cool... I mean if that is not bothering... H-how shall I dress? Is it a fancy place?"
"I was expecting so" says Jenya smiling "With this positions movements and Alek Tercival expending so much time out of the city, I was wondering if you could take the duty of watching over what is happening in the city, whether in the streets as well as in the high grounds"
"Me and Alek used to be watchful, but nowadays it seems we have other pressing duties on our backs, and you and your group seem to be well connected and walking the streets often anyway"
"Terrem has always been grim-faced, but he seems to be less talkative than normal. Somehow, what happened to him with all the other children kidnapped has made him more angry" explains Patch.
Adrick grins "Ya, sure, you can take the mithril chain with you"
The merchant dwarf seems more concerned about the invitation to the ball "You know, you should accept the invitation and take me with you as your guest. There are some noblemen I have been looking forward to talk to for new business for a while now and this looks as the perfect opportunity..."
Terseon nods understanding "Ok, let's do it, we will send some builders to make masonry and a door there. Perhaps you can assist them by protecting them with some of my men and your magic if you so think the place is that dangerous"
Jenya grimaces as she heard Vhalantru's name, but she nods to the dwarf in acknowledgement "The poorer of houses have been suffering plenty of damage. I would like to currently set up a project to help those people. I thought you might be able to help them clean their houses and throw broken furniture"
"I'll have a word with the church of Abadar then. They kind of owe me a favor at the moment anyway." smilse JJ.
Turning to Sara he adds "Yes, it will be pretty fancy I imagine. I'm going to get some new clothes for it. I'm not too sure about dress shops, but I'm sure my sister Marigold will know about them. Maybe I can ask her to swing around and take you shopping?"
A slight look of concern crosses his face. "Some of the people there don't necessarily like me or my friends very much. I'm hoping they will be too polite to be rude in good company, but if you feel you want to leave at any stage, just let me know and I'll make sure you get home okay.'
<at the tavern>
"Hi Marigold. I am asked Sara if she wants to come to the ball with me. I thought a party might be helpful to take her mind off.... the stuff that has happened."
He leans forward. "But she is going to need something nice to wear, and I don't know any nice dress shops. Do you think you could take her shopping?"
He quickly adds "I'm happy to pay for the clothes. And I think it would be great to be able to spend some of the money we gained doing something nice for folk, don't you?"
A shadow crosses his face. "I'm still a little worried about Terran as well. Maybe I'll go visit again tomorrow and take him fishing at the lake."
Also, curious about how long we have before the ball. JJ is still keen on spending some cash on either joining the Bluecrater academy (to further his studies on demons), and/or buying a small tavern. Mostly to give Tessa and Sara a place to work if they are having a hard time finding a job.
Talking to Terseon: "I don't mind doing my bit and accompanying your men there to ensure all goes well there."
"I'll have to make a few trips back and forth to that triad's complex."
"Doing my bit to help make sure that entrance is sealed up proper like."
Kikinnin nods, understanding Jenya is more in touch with the damage from the waters than he first thought. "Aye, I could use to exercise my frame outside of my armor for a bit. You point out the houses in need, as well as a note of explanation for why they have a dwarf pounding on their doorstep, and I'll move forward."
"A-angry...?" Marigold muses, looking even more puzzled. "Have you t-tried t-talking to him about it?" she asks. "It m-must have b-been really s-scary for him, n-not being able to d-do anything..." she sighs.
"Sh-shopping? Um, s-sure, I c-can do that," Marigold smiles, though there's a rueful hint to it. "B-but I'm n-not all that s-sure what would b-be b-best myself. Hopefully we c-can find s-someone in one of the sh-shops that c-can help us."
Her expression then shifts to a thoughtful look. "D-do you think I sh-should invite s-someone too, JJ?"
"I'm not too sure Marigold. I was inviting Sara to try and take her mind off stuff. But yes, I think it would help show that we are more than just random people. We are Cauldron, and our connections run as deep as the other blue bloods."
His eyes take on a determined look as he says this.
"Just because we are young, and without family money doesn't make us worth any less than them. We have attracted their notice - thus the invitations - unless Ryan had a hand in that... Let us show them we can be civil. Last thing we want is to have the mayor think us some type of a thread to Cauldron and exile us."
Maxim nods appreciatively at his Uncle's words, mulling them over with deep sup of rum;
"Such events ain't my bag Uncle... but if its a means to an end for you 'course I'll make the exception..."
Hell's Teeth. Looks like I aim to be a debutante...
He flashes a wry grin as the spirit warms his throat;
"Invite ain't cheap... Say a shirt o' Mithril chain betwixt blod-dwur?"
"But of course I'd be happy to watch what is happening on the streets, I'm sure we all would. In addition to watching for new items of interest, has anything caught your eye or ear we should be aware of?" Ryan answers eagerly,thinking the work with the Cauldron Watchers would put him behind his peers within the church, happily that did not seem to be the case.
<In the Tavern>
Ryan listens to the banter going back and forth, adding little once he had voiced his own reason for going. However JJ and Marigolds conversation catches his ear.
"No JJ, I had nothing to do with this, my uncle could have....but I don't think so. He might have extended an invitation to me individually, but to the group, only if he stood to gain something from it. At least based on the way he spoke about the Stormblades. He feels that...a group like this while useful in the short term is ultimatey shirking their familial duty to the family business.
Marigold, one of my mother's servants could help you with outfits for the occasion. Annalise, has been helping her for years, she would know what is in style this year and what ...how did she put it, ah yes....so last year.
JJ, noble gesture to bring Sarah to the event, one befitting your family name." as the young man's pride begins to show a bit "do be more gentle with her though than your last girlfriend."
Throwing his hands up in surrender and a wink before JJ's pride could turn to outrage "Lyssa another for JJ here on my tab, actually another for the table." looking to make sure he has all of their attention. "While we already are listening for tidbits concerning the disappearances withing Cauldron, Jenya has asked for help keeping tabs on the coming and goings of Caudron itself, I told her I would be glad to, and I thought you all would be willing to help as well. Objections?"
The Demonskar Ball will be held in three days.
Terseon does know nothing about Shensen.
Patch shrugs "I do not know, that child is an a!&#+$+. He has been his whole life being a pain in our backs" the half-orc suddenly seems to notice you and seems ashamed "Sorry Marigold, I should not say those kind of thinks in your presence, specially about one of the boys"
"But he is"
Adrick accepts to pay the whole value of the items.
The dwarf's eyes flash as Maxim highlights the value of the invitation "Hell's teeth! I see you are become a good heir!" Garthûn starts laughing "Let's make it, you can have the chain at a 200 gold pieces discount"
"I fear about the taxes increase rumors. It is much needed but I don't know if everyone will understand." explains Jenya "I think the Major plans to announce the final program during the Demonskar Ball"
Marigold simply chuckles and shakes her head. "It's okay P-Patch, I m-mean it. T-try traveling around with a t-two dwarves...I've h-heard a lot w-worse from t-time t-to t-time!"
"Anyway...I know T-Terrem s-seems to be c-closer to JJ than anyone, b-but maybe I can try t-talking to him and s-see what's g-going on. M-maybe I'd better t-talk to JJ, t-too." The halfling stands from her seat at the long dining table.
"Where's T-Terrem right now? D-do you think now would b-be a good time to s-see him?"
Marigold smiles gratefully at Ryan. "Th-thanks Ryan! B-between the three of us I'm s-sure that we'll c-come up with something nice to wear. And s-sure, I'll b-be happy to keep my ears open for n-news. I'll t-try to check in with my other f-friends around the city, t-too."
As they sit drinking, a thought strikes her and she looks up at her old friend. "L-Lyssa! W-would you like to c-come with me, as m-my friend and g-guest? If Gryffon doesn't mind, I m-mean. You'd know all of us and S-Sara, so you wouldn't b-be alone!"
She grabs her old friend's hand between her own, eyes shining. "P-please s-say you'll t-talk it over with Gryffon, at least. Okay?"
"What do you mean?" asks JJU of Ryan.
"Cauldron is not going anywhere." he looks around worried for a moment. "Is it?"
He pointedly ignores the comment about Triel. She is too recent and too raw a memory to probe yet.
After breakfast he heads back to his apartment to provide an update to Sara about help with the shopping.
"The boy is probably playing at the main bedroom with the other boys." the half-orc scratches his forehead "There is no reason for you not being able to talk with Terrem"
Lyssa's eyes open wide "Really? That would be awesome Marigold!" the woman looks at Marigold and hugs her "We will go partying again! That's great! Don't worry about Gryffon! He has no reason to complain about this!"
Maxim nods with wry resignation as hands over the 1000 gold suns for the chain;
"A fair price Uncle... And I'll take you to the grand shindig... but I ain't dressin' like some clown nor dandy. I'll brush up smart, and wear a mask o' this Nabthatoron or some such..."
The gun-mage drains his crystal tumbler, then nods to his Uncle;
"I'm bushed. Need to get my head down. I'll collect the coin for our goods on the morrow afore I meet my companions. Ball is in 3 days... I'll be in touch afore to make the arrangements. Night Adrick."
Maxim arrives to join you all on the morn, he places several bags of coin with a hard smile;
"Good trade done. My Uncle drove a hard bargain tho..."
The dwur orders some breakfast, then eyes his fellow dwur with a knowing look;
"Seems you've got the right o' it Bror. My Uncle see's it as a business opportunity that can't be missed..."
He sighs with resignation as his food and coffee arrive;
"So Surabar. Reckon I'll be goin' to this fancy dan shindig after all... Taking my Uncle along as my guest..."
The gun-mage shoots a jaundiced eye at his companions;
"Just so we're straight. I ain't jumpin' for joy, nor keen as mustard. I'm goin' under duress... an' I ain't dressin' up like a clown or court-fool."
"Okay, I th-think I'll go d-do that," Marigold replies. Before she steps out to go find Terrem, she gives Patch a pat on the arm. "Y-You're a g-good friend and caretaker t-to all the kids, P-Patch. Just k-keep at it and I know all will b-be forgiven," she smiles.
Once done speaking with Patch, Marigold heads upstairs to the main sleeping quarters where the boys are playing. At first she simply peeks into the room and watches Terrem for a time, curious to see how he behaved when no adult eyes were on him.
"Haha, you're w-welcome Lyssa!" Marigold hugs her friend, finding her joy infectious. "We'll have a g-grand time, I p-promise!" From over Lyssa's shoulder, her smile grows wider as Maxim joins them and announces his (grudging) intention to attend the ball as well.
"With a sc-scowl like that I'd c-certainly hope you'd not d-dress like a clown! Not unless you wanted to s-scare s-someone, anyway," she responds teasingly.
But anyway, here goes the diplomacy roll:
That's disappointing!
Just in case, same rolls for the next two days:
Oh well.
In any event, Juraan will try to buy a costume that's black and has a dragon or wyrm motif or two.
One that's not too expensive. And one that doesmake Juraan look like a dandy.
He'll also try to brew a concoction to turn a person's hair green when ingested.
Getting the idea from the banter between JJ and Juraan earlier.
(I'll let you figure out the cost of materials)
"Still trying to get myself ready for the ball."
"As well as keeping an eye out for the lads sealing that cavern."
"Say, does anyone know where to find Shensen?"
"I wouldn't mind bringing her along to the ball."
Up in the rooms Terrem seems to play a puzzle alone while the rest of the boys are toying a gecko.
You place some questions at the local tavern and the streets but you cannot find out anything about Shensen.
It takes you 10 gold pieces but you find out a very fine costume and the materials for your concoction.
"Seems you've got the right o' it Bror. My Uncle sees it as a business opportunity that can't be missed..."
Kikinnin raises his mug to his fellow dwarf, almost as one would during a wake to salute the dearly departed.
"You make sure to soak up as much butter as you can, to help your uncle grease his wheels of business. You may have to abide by your invitation's instruction, though, if you're gonna play fair in Aslaxin Land. Yours was special." The black-beard gives him a punch in the shoulder, while steadying his brew.
Kikinnin turns to Ryan. "Jenya's got me helping clean out water-damaged houses in the less fortunate districts. I expect that work to occupy me well through the Ball, so I ask you to pass along my regrets. Your tongue is agile, so should soften the blow."
Jenya's got me helping clean out water-damaged houses in the less fortunate districts. I expect that work to occupy me well through the Ball, so I ask you to pass along my regrets. Your tongue is agile, so should soften the blow."
Shaking his head Ryan replies " you're really not actively setting up a spy network, you are simply opening your eyes and ears to what is going on around you. While you help with the house cleaning if those around you bring to light issues within the community other than house cleaning just pass it on. It may be something we can work on then again someone else may need to see to it. Jenya and Alick used to do it but duty has drawn them away."
After watching Terrem work at the puzzle for a few minutes, Marigold wanders over and takes a seat beside him.
"Th-that's a good way to k-keep your mind sh-sharp," she smiles as she nods at the puzzle. "I d-didn't know that you liked p-puzzles though. What k-kinds do you like b-best?"
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Maxim forces a smile, meeting Kikinnin's toast;
"At least one of us will avoid the humiliation bror. You lucky son of the stone!"
The gun-mage sighs in resignation, not really enjoying the prospect;
"I'll not be a clown Lil' Miss. My invite is as the demon Nabthatoron..."
Prompting a wry comment to JJ;
"Don't worry Surabar - I'll spare you despite the history books saying I should do otherwise..."
"A d-demon?" Marigold makes a face. "That d-doesn't suit you either. I wonder if they d-drew names out of a hat f-for these sp-special invitations?"
Maxim shrugs with a grimace;
"Who knows Lil' Miss. God's are darn fickle, so wouldn't be surprised none if its one o' them stickin' it to me somehow."
The gun-mage stabs at his breakfast with a disgruntled belligerence;
"Suppose the upside o' being masked is once the damned dandy ball is o'er no-one'll know its me... If asked I'll just give my name as one Kikinnin Rouradont... Har!"
Blond beard wryly smiles at black across the table.
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Kikinnin raises an eyebrow, as blond plots his ball escapades. "Without my voluptuous backside, you'll give yourself up as impostor as soon as you drop my name, and they see your arse." Straight face is fleeting, and he has to crack a Snaphånce hard smile.
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt your standings if you dyed your beard a proper color." The black-beard's chuckle comes at a delay, so ends up snorting into his mug, and wetting his obviously superiorly-colored beard.
"I've got a costume and some party favours. So I'm ready."
Terrem raises an elbow as you talk to him "The wars ones" shortly answers the boy. Only then you realize the puzzle he is doing were a host of demon-like creatures are fighting one each other.
"If you also come to tell me I must play with the other boys you are losing your time. They are bland and boring. They do not understand" the boy places an additional piece in the puzzle "And this at least helps me to stay away from the dreams"
Right a couple of hours before the ball, while you are walking on a straight alley a shadowy shape catches your eye. You do react quick, prepared to cast a spell when you are surprised by someone taking your arm.
"A couple of half-elf friends of mine told me you were looking for me" tells you a white haired Shensen Tesseril with soft voice "It will be a honor to assist to the ball with you Juraan" The dusk half-elf smiles wide and you then can see the natural yet appealing dress the female is dressing.
A day before the ball, Adrick calls you to his place "If you are going to be Nabthatoron, you must be the best one ever" he tells you while delivering a huge box. Inside a large disguise of a horned demon waits for you. It seems to perfectly shape your body.
On the last night of the Flood Festival, you do finally gather in front of the Coy Nixie to assist the Demonskar Ball.
Adrick Garthûn attends side by side with Maxim. Two bodyguards come short after him. Most people stop shortly to watch Maxim as he walks the streets disguised as a large horned demon.
A delighted Lyssa Haventree reaches the group with Marigold. She takes the flute with her and plays a joyful song as the group marches.
Just after them Sara Marsh arrives with JJ. The young girl seems not used to the nice dress but a wide smile crosses her face while she hangs from JJ's arm.
To your surprise, Shensen Tesseril hangs from Juraan's arm as you reach the Coy Nixie.
Finally, the group is closed by Ryan, whom disguise still shows the symbols of Abadar.
The receptionist vows and makes some nice comments about your costumes while she takes your invitations and points to the large upper floor ballroom for your access to the party. Garthûn makes a sign and both the bodyguards stay away and wait out in the street.
Up in the room you are received by ushers that starts pointing you one or the other side of the room "Remember, Cauldron founders should stay at one side of the ball, while demons should accommodate at the other. As the party starts the mockery of one group against the others will be leaded by Surabar Spellmason for the founders and Nabthatoron for the demons"
The people makes room for your group as you enter all looking at Maxim, they point out at the picture that crowns the room, the Battle of Surabar against Nabthatoron "Oh, well done, its fantastic your resemblance".
With the masks it is difficult to tell whom is whom in the room, but you have currently the attention of most of the large group of disguised people.
JJ enters, proud to be able to show Sara a fancy party. Following the directions, he heads over to the Surabar side of the room. His eyes however linger on the massive picture of his famous forefather and the horrible Nabthatoron.
Using his knowledge of demons, he tries to work out what he can of what type of demon Nabthatoron was - although even he understands that artistic licence may have resulted in the demon being changed beyond any recognition.
"Sara, would you like something to eat or drink? I've not been to this before, so I'm not sure exactly how the mockery event actually happens. "
As part of his costume, JJ is dressed as a young wizard. He wears his magical cloak and boots (thoroughly cleaned), but his only weapon is a gnarled staff that has a suitably wizardly look to it.
I just hope I'm not going to regret leaving my actual weapons at home. Surely nothing bad can happen with so much security around...
His eyes, grown older over the last few weeks, scan the crowd for danger. At the back of his mind however is the chance that he might see Celeste.
Juraan, grinning from ear to ear, follows the crowd in, arm in arm with Shensen.
He's wearing relatively simple, yet tasteful, black and purple suit with dragon motifs.
He's obviously more interested in chatting up Shensen than anything else around him.
He tries to find liqueurs for Shensen and himself.
"I've never been to a fancy party like this. Looks interesting."
"It is an honour and indeed a pleasure to meet you again, Shensen!"
"And in a much happier occaision when first we met!"
"You are splendid site!"
He's keen on knowing how she has been since the Lucky Monkey massacre.
"How have you been since then?"
"That was such a trying time!"
He will tell about the end of Triel, who was behind that massacre.
If she doesn't know about it already.
She definitely has Juraan's undivided attention!
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Maxim dutifully marches ahead of his Uncle, keen to showcase both the costume and the Garthûn business status.
He allows his Uncle and those more inclined to such events to soak up the atmosphere, but endeavors to play his part - menacingly roaring at the crowds (and Cauldron founders who get too close); and bowing in gratitude of any compliments paid;
"The vision an' meticulous attention to detail is down to Adrick Garthûn. Traits he values in both pleasure an' business..."
Whilst unarmed for the ball, Maxim did wear his fine mithril chain under the costume and was judicious in selecting spells to ensure the mighty Nabthatoron was far from toothless...
"No...I'm n-not going to tell you to p-play with anyone you d-don't want t-to," Marigold responds softly. "B-but don't hold it against them if they d-don't like p-playing the same s-sorts of games that you d-do. N-not everyone likes the s-same things and th-that's okay, you kn-know. I'd t-tell them the s-same thing t-too, if they m-made fun of you."
"Th-that's a p-pretty neat-looking g-game, though. W-was it a g-gift from s-someone?" she continues, trying to remain casual with her questions.
Dreams? What sort of dreams, I wonder?
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Having consulted with Lyssa privately while they'd been out shopping for their dresses and other parts of their costumes, Marigold arrives wearing a yellow and black dress designed to resemble the look of a honeybee. As Lyssa plays her flute, the halfling dances and 'buzzes' about, clearly enjoying herself.
Although she doesn't display any real talent for dancing, she at least proves that she doesn't have two left feet!
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During the three days leading up to the ball
Ryan takes his time to visit the city, an outfit to retrieve and information to be learned. The morning still saw him in the church courtyard training with the other cleric and acolytes, followed by prayers and then him morning meal. Moving through the neighborhoods surrounding the lake he administers aid where it is needed, listens to the hopes and complaints of those still there, and helping Kikinnin should he run across him.
Afternoons would find him making his rounds checking on the shops around town, a beautifully tailored outfit befitting his family had been in the works since the reception of the invitation, his family represented well, yet his affiliation with the church just as much; though in and understated way.
without asking specific questions, Ryan listens to the heartbeat f the city as he makes his rounds.
Night of the ball
Ryan arrives at the Coy Nixie the night of the ball within his family's carriage, thankful his uncle had allowed the trip to occur with a minimum of adventurer bashing, some was always to be expected but this was a night for enjoyment.
The outfit was a deep grey the color of refined iron, with silver trimmings, a smattering of gold was found on the specially made buttons. They were made in the likeness of his shield and the key embossed on it. He smiled as he shot the cuffs of the shirt, his concession to color, a fine silk shirt a deep blue that glittered like sapphires when the light caught it just right. His mask was a simple affair made of black paper mache with silver lightening streaking across it. His family made it's living from the mines, iron, silver, gold, and the occasional jewel. They could all be found in the lands surrounding the Caldera. His finest dagger graced a new sheath at his belt, silver tracings on it as well. the family crest on a ring on his right hand, and the ever present chain and key hung from his neck, shined to the point it almost glowed in the candle light.
Entering the ball after his uncle, and father and mother, Ryan seeks out his companions, complementing the ladies all on their choices, as well as the gentlemen, privately congratulating both JJ and Juraan on their taste in companions. Offering to introduce any of them to his family, should they wish the introduction. Sipping from a glass of champagne, he studies the room in the meantime.
Inquisitor
0 lvl - acid splash, brand, detect poison, disrupt undead
1st level - bane, interrogation
cleric
0 lvl - detect magic, guidance, light, resistance
1st lvl - magic weapon, moment of greatness, remove fear, sanctuary
2nd lvl - bull's strength, lesser restoration, spiritual weapon
domain spells - 1st divine favor, 2nd enthrall
GM I planning on the outfit costing me 100gp, 75 for a nobles outfit and 25gp for the special made buttons. The ring, he already owns a gift on his confirmation.
"Gretchyn told us to chose a toy. I have chosen this one." Terrem looks back at you "It remembers me the dreams. They happen only every so often. The other boys are c##%, they get scared everytime I told them about"
People stop to thank you your efforts as you play visit to them. Your listening brings some good response from the people, mostly rumors. Some of the most relevant ones currently moving around are:
Hookface the dragon was spotted flying over the hills to the north by some advneturers
Alek Tercival, St. Cuthbert's famous paladin, has been out of town for several days now; someone heard he traveled to the village of Redgorge to take care of a woman who was possessed by a demon!
A giant has been recently seen in Cauldron. He was companion to a strange tiger-like humanoid.
The Stormblades will be named "Champions of Cauldron" because they recently completed a dangerous mission in the tunnels below town.
The city council is planning to raise taxes at the end of the flood season to pay all the parties the Major and his assessors have been enjoying.
"I have been recovering for the last days and talking long with my master. Ok I guess..." Shensen looks directly at your eyes "How about you? I have heard your group has been quite busy"
>> Demonskar ball
Your knowledge does not seem enough to tell anything about Nabthatoron.
Despite your attempt to find Celeste, it's difficult to tell. There are some blond women in the room who might be her.
You do notice a group of five who might be the Stormblades. They are talking to each other and commenting while looking at you.
You do also notice a woman paying special attention at JJ and following his doings.
Finally, Maxim-Nabthatoron is taking most of the general attention.
Sara looks at JJ "Oh, th-thanks JJ, perhaps some mead?"
Before you can do much more people start to move to side and side of the room, forcing you to arrange with founders and demons.
Maxim-Nabthatoron is practically forced to the head of the demon-costumed side. The demons behind him start to roar against the founders.
On the other side, Surabar takes the head of the founders. He raises his hands asking for silence and then starts to shout "Creatures of the Abyss!" the audience start to shout again forcing Surabar to shout louder "You are going to perish today like you made hundreds of years before! That if you do not perish at your own smell to poop! Have you looked at your pants?" the founders start to laugh while the demons look at Maxim waiting for a reply.
Other founders also shout at the demons "Stupid sacks of bones!"
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JJ, happy to have the lovely Sara on his arm, directs her towards the drinks table. While more than happy to pour for Sara, he keeps to the non-alcoholic stuff himself.
"This is my first high profile public occasion. I'm going to have to be extra careful about not bringing the Surabar name into disrepute." he explains to Sara.
"A couple of folk here have tried to trip me up in the past, so I'll need every bit of wit that the gods granted me tonight."
As the mocking starts, JJ tries to work himself to the front.
"These demons only come here because they are so ugly, the other demons threw them out of the Abyss!" he shouts, joining in the fun.
"I am glad that you are recovering and happy you are doing well."
Staring back at her, smiling, he recounts their recent activities…
"We found, fought, and slew those behind the Lucky Monkey massacre."
"Including Triel, the Asmodean priestess who seemed to be their leader."
"I got the city guard to seal up their old lair too."
"There were still some nasty creatures from deep underground there."
"Luckily, they seemed to hate Triel and hers as much as anyone else."
"Please, tell me more about yourself."
"I'm sure you must have interesting talents."
"My sister, Essodydd, and I both grew up in the orphanage here."
"We were often treated as outcasts because of our draconic eyes."
Juraan is absorbed with Shensen's company and chatting her up.
He serves drinks for them both. He doesn't overindulge, however.
He's much more interested in her than getting drunk.
"It will be interesting to see how this reenactment plays out."
"Our friend Maxim is playing the lead demon over there."
"He'd look even more like a demon with one of his ever-present cigars!"
Particularly Todd of the Stormblades, who really gets on Juraan's nerves.
He's more interested in avoiding them to avoid spoiling his enjoyment with Shensen's company.
, he's obviously much too distracted by Shensen's dress to pay much attention to anything else. :o
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At the head of the demon horde Maxim listens to the taunts and playful jibes.
The dwur flashes a hard smile within the mask, realising he can cut loose with his tongue at these peacocks and lofty nobles;
Maxim-Nabthatoron rears up, blowing smoke from its scale'd nostrils in mock anger;
"Har! Big talk from such soft little mortals. Judging by how frail and pathetic most of you are we will do this world a service when we flay your flesh and claim your souls!"
He beckons with a claw first at the Spellmason, then JJ and his assembled cronies;
"Come here and wipe our arses for us then O' Great Founders, for that is all you are fit for! Shoveling nightsoil and cowering at your own shadows!"
The mighty demon then turns to his horde whipping them into a frenzy!
"Look, Shensen. Smoke! It seems Maxim does have one of his stogies, after all!"
"Smoke! " cries JJ. "that and Mirrors is all these demons have. Here in Cauldron we have rain, and more than enough of that to put out these puny demons. Hmm, maybe they got booted out for smelling so bad. Our good clean Cauldron water can help wash away that too!"
The lad grabs a mostly empty water jug and does his best to drain it in front of the demons.
Shensen seems to become sad after Juraan's questions. The conversation is interrupted by the display. Then after Maxim's-Narbathoron speech she talks frankly "In fact I know what being an outcast means. I was kicked out of a monastery myself some years ago"
It is tradition that Zachary Aslaxin himself takes the role of Surabar Spellmason.
Surabar advances through the ball room to mid distance from Nabthatoron "You are the poorest of this city! As you don't have a home here and you will never have! The light will clean your nasty shadows soon!" the public roars with Surabar's words, he draws a staff and shows it up in the air "I am not scared of you Nabtha...tonsilitis! You dump idiot come here so I can defeat you once more!"