Wardove's Rumble in the Jungle

Game Master Laithoron

[ Links: Matrix | ToC | Wiki ]


951 to 1,000 of 11,113 << first < prev | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | next > last >>

Alis smiles warmly at Felmor's toast and holds her glass up, "Hear, hear! And to finding some real adventure along the way in spite of official business!"

With that you all drink and Alis exclaims, "Oh! It's sweet!"

The rest of the evening proceeds without incident. Alis joins the gypsies in play a few songs, Lureene breaks a few hears with her dancing, and Felmor and Priyya tear up an impromptu dance floor made when the tables are cleared away towards the walls.

Eventually, spirits and having stared too long at arcane spirits gets the better of everyone. It's not long after midnight before everyone has sacked out.


LK Calendar: Kevath 18, 4210 — Lansday

Why is this bed so hot? Is this a leather blanket?"

Alis sits up in her nightgown kicking the covers off the bed with her legs and swinging her arm in a broad arc to push the blanket off of her. She gives a small cry as the 'blanket' comes right back at her and she tumbles out of bed to her left to avoid it. As her eyes adjust to the dim light of early morning, she stands up and looks down to realize that the leather blanket was actually Lureene's left wing.

Gathering up her clothes, the princess tip-toes over to the window. A quick peek reveals the Golden Drakes have already started hitching up the carriage and wagons for the drive to Valehaven. She also spies a familiar figure garbed in desert fashion with a scimitar at her side walking north east at a brisk pace towards the town's shrine to Alíta. A quickly glance over her shoulder confirms that her winged friend, however, is still fast asleep.

Priyya should be busy for the next hour saying her prayers. As for Lureene, all that studying must have really worn her out! Guess I'll let her get a few more minutes while take a quick bath...

By the time the sun has fully risen, your group has already eaten breakfast and embarked, the small river town falling swiftly behind you. The maps you had spied in Drellin's Ferry showed that there were three villages and wayshrines to rest at for each of the three nights spent on the road to Valehaven. Much to Alis' chagrin, around mid-afternoon, Bajala drives the Golden Drakes clear thru the town of Terrelton, stopping only long enough for a farmer to goad his oxen out of the way.

You push on for a few more hours before making camp on the side of the dusty road.


LK Calendar: Kevath 19, 4210 — Starsday

After a night encamped on the road, the following day seems even longer. Shortly after noon, the princess' entourage rumbles thru a thorp known as Naaman's Gap which consists of little more than a shrine to Hiro, and an inn for passing caravans. When Alis finds out that Bajala means to sleep on the road for a second night in a row before proceeding directly to Valehaven on the third day, Alis has a minor fit and explains the situation to Yvonne.

"I am not about to go riding into a city of any size looking like some frazzled dust bunny. It simply would not be a good first impression to make on any dignitaries we might meet. What would that say about Ilmarond or even Estoria? Look, if we ride for another three hours after dark, the maps say we'll reach a village called Talar, right? I'd rather ride for a bit longer and have the chance to rest, freshen up, and ride into Valehaven with dignity than for us to stumble thru the gates after dark."

In spite of Bajala's protests and the weary sighs of more than a few of the gypsies, your group pushes on making what is normally a day of rest at the week's end into nearly a 12-hour day*. By the time you arrive in Talar, a small village built where Sawng's Way rejoins the River Elsmur, Brightpool has fallen halfway to the horizon.

*:
Remember, the length of a day on Elsemar is 21 hours, not 24.


LK Calendar: Kevath 20, 4210 — Alsday

The new week starts with a great deal of yawning and soreness after two days of rather hard riding. It doesn't help that a cool breeze blowing off the river sees everyone inclined to huddle under their blankets rather than rising to face a brisk dawn.

Within a few hours though, all memory of the cool evening is forgotten when a cloudless day raises the temperature nearly 30 degrees by noon. Thankfully, the Drake's marvelous Setenbori steeds (like the gypsies and Priyya) are well accustomed to much warmer weather. Lureene seems to enjoy it as well, even stretching out atop the carriage for a bit, wings spread to soak up the sun.

Meanwhile, Alis waves Mal up alongside the carriage and spends quite some time leaning out talking with him. A great deal of their conversation dwells on noting the differences between the many storks and egrets along the river compared to Yandral-Sharaes' kingfishers and eagles, and the gulls and osprey of Silverwake.

Felmor finds himself content to see his desert rose enjoying the warm weather and encouraged to be near water again — even if only a river.

About 3 hours past noon, the walls of Valehaven finally rise up to the east. Although roughly the same size as Caen Carrinac, the flatness of the surrounding grasslands make it seem more expansive. The city is almost completely surrounded by a 20-ft high stone wall. The only stretch not so protected is the northern length which borders the River Elsmyr. Two bridges connect the city to the river's northern bank. The highest point in the city is a hill rising up in center. A large, well-built stone castle surmounts the hill. The only structure in town higher than its mighty towers is the spire of a grand cathedral slightly downhill and southwest of the great keep.

Sawng's Way enters Valehaven thru its western gate, less than 100 yards from the river. It leaves on the eastern side thru a similar gatehouse. Another road heads south from a gate in the southwestern corner of the city while the bridges provide access to a roadway leading north.

Bajala leads the caravan thru Valehaven's western gates, the guards there snapping to attention to salute the carriage carrying Yvonne and her charges as they pass. You make your way to the fifth major intersection inside the walls before turning right. The street begins to rise up the hill, the great cathedral of Alíta ascending above you towards the azure sky.

Upon reaching a 5-point intersection at the corner of the cathedral's property, you make a sharp left. You stop before a sizable mansion surrounded by a sizable wall field where horses can run. From the mansion, a number of servants emerge to relieve the Golden Drakes, tend to the horses, and see to the comfort of Yvonne's guests.

You note that the Golden Drake's headquarters seems to be located in a rather well-to-do portion of the city. The roads are well-paved, and while their fashion sense is rather provincial compared to the coastal cities you have frequented, the people who note your arrival are never-the-less well-dressed.

Yvonne gives a small sigh and says to Alis, speaking clearly enough for the rest of you to hear as well, "Princess, duties of my own are there here to which I must attend. Of our encounter at Skull's Gap and the upset of the Ghostlord must I apprise the other council members. Please, consider my home your palace while here. I promise to you, only tonight and tomorrow night shall we linger. On Lakusday shall we depart. Leave tomorrow I would, but to this duty only I may attend. Yours is not the only war that hope would avert."

The green-eyed beauty gestures north-east along the street. "At this block's opposite end, a theater you may visit, owned by Valeria, my friend."

Turning around towards the way you came and motioning to the right, she continues, "If head back this way and make the next right also, a tavern will you find. Most clients never would I direct there, however someone of your station they can serve with proper respect. The Craven Raven it is called. Just north of there, the city's market meets where the bridges join the banks. A wizard of repute, one called Immerstal the Red, there makes his home. In a tower on the south-eastern corner he resides, not far past the theater."

"From here, already can you see the Shield-Bearer's grand house. At the keep beyond shall I be. Know that adjacent to the keep the estate of House Kale will you find, so please do not linger there. The new lady of that house is not a woman that I trust."

"If any further help you require, on Bajala can you rely. Please excuse my absence..."

With that, Yvonne instructs the driver of the lead wagon containing the three prisoners to turn around. She then mounts her horse and leads them left and up the hill towards the castle.

MAP: Valehaven


Lureene sighs and tries to get settled in what seems to be another room with a bed in it. For some reason, she thought of Rath-hun, and wondered how he was doing. He probably was still sailing to Wildethar.

At least this Valehaven seems like a fun place to explore. Too bad they were here for only a couple of days. Noticing Alis washing the accumulated dust and grime off of her fair and clothing, she debates whether to use the Prestidigitation on her. She decides to see if she can hide the spell casting from her, and breaks out into an impromptu dance.

Bluff (to disguise spell casting as a Dance, he he) 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (18) + 13 = 31

Once the spell has been uttered, she slips off to the powder room, and emerges smelling clean and fresh, wearing a light blue summer frock dress, with the smells of her lingering perfumes starting to reassert themselves. She turns to the Princess, and smiles knowingly at her. ”I know you want to check out some of the various hotspots here in Valehaven, and, since I dragged you along to meet Sietenen, then the very least I can do is hang out with you, wherever you want to go.”


Once again, Mal's demeanor changes as they entered the town, the surliness returning.

As the morning warms, he retrieves his kit (all except axe, bow, and spear) and throws his bulky over-coat with its long sleeves on over his armor, making sure his claws don't extend beyond the cuffs of his exaggeratedly long sleeves. Then heads outside to wait patiently while the others decide what they want to do with their time.

After grabbing a light bite to eat and stepping outside in the cool morning, Mal finds an out-of-the-way, impromptu resting spot (whether or not there is actually a seat or bench) and gets comfortable, isly scratching Talvyra while waiting for any of the women to depart.

At least the day is nice. He thinks while watching the annoying buzz of too much concentrated humanity.


Correction: The upscale tavern near Yvonne's estate is The Six of Coins not The Craven Raven.

Before heading to their rooms, Alis calls out to Mal and says, "Lureene, Priyya, and I are going to go freshen up. It might be an hour or two, so if you and Felmor want to visit any weapon shops or what-not, feel free. Just leave yourself enough time to get cleaned-up and dressed in something appropriate for a late night spent bodyguarding amongst nobles."

As the three beauties walk inside, Mal overhears Alis saying, "I was thinking we might enjoy a nice dinner, see a show, and then mingle over drinks afterwards."

Priyya responds, "While that sounds lovely, as Surya-ka-Vahaak, I would be remiss not to hold vigil in Alíta's cathedral tonight after I have bathed and properly attired myself..."

As the trio enter the mansion, Alis replies, "Oh, by all means..." before the are out of earshot.

Upstairs a short while later...

While Priyya is getting ready in the room she and Felmor are sharing, Alis and Lureene begin getting cleaned-up for a night out.

Perception 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20
Sense Motive 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31

Alis hears whispers words of magic and casts a sly look at Lureene. "Ellll? Those are some lovely moves, but even when you whisper, I can still hear you casting you know..."

She gives her friend a wink and says, "Come on, let's at least take real baths while we have the chance. We can always use our cantrips while we're on the road!"

The princess retrieves a pair of luffa sponges, a pair of plush bathrobes, and a vial of rosy liquid from her luggage and asks, "Bubble bath?"


Lureene smiles at Alis, somewhat crestfallen her deception was discovered, and yet proud she was able to put on a good show. This is something I need to practice, maybe if I can fool 'Lis half the time I will truly be a wizard!

On the mention of a bubble bath, her thoughts go back to a certain time spent with Rath-hun, and also a dusky skinned elf, I wonder whatever happened to her, she was a lot of fun to be around! Still, she had a feeling 'Lis knew how to make a lot of bubbles, so to speak.

"A bubble bath? This is gonna be fun! Now who gets to go first...?"


A great sigh rolls from the tall hunter's throat as he looks skyward (searching for some escape?). He catches the sailor's eye, "I'm going to walk Little Sister to the edge of town… she'd like to spend the night doing her own thing. If you'd like to stretch your legs, you're free to come. We'll still have plenty of time to come back and wash up before the girls are ready. Black-moons, but we'll probably have time for a quick drink even after that…. the way these women like to get all shinied up."

Mal waits for an answer from the Knight-Captain before standing up and setting off at a brisk pace towards the edge of town.

Cat-language-ese:
"I'll yell if I need you, Little Sister. Have some fun for both of us out there, alright?"


Also, it occurs to me that Mal's nice boots went the way of the Dodo... Is there a good boot-maker in town who can work on a quick turn-around? :D


Felmor, knowing his Desert Rose will be occupied for the rest of the evening, and seeing an opportunity to explore the town for a little bit, nods at Mal, "Aye, that be fine, I kin keep ye company. I kin tell ye don't like these cities much. Me, I prefer ta be out on th'open waves meself, but sometimes ye gotta make sacrifices."

Somehow he had a feeling he would be keeping Lureene company while Mal would be stuck with Alis. He wasn't sure whether to be relieved or terrrified.


Lureene wrote:
"A bubble bath? This is gonna be fun! Now who gets to go first...?"

"Well, since 'Sis isn't here, I figured that if you don't mind washing my back, I can wash yours."

Alis' Bluff 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26
Lureene's Sense Motive 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

Lureene gets the feeling that there's a bit more to it than that but she can't quite put her finger on it.

Sense Motive DC 26:
Judging by the way Alis is sneaking peeks at her wings, you gather that Alis aims to figure out how one goes about washing wings in a bath tub.

With that, the duo head down the hall to enjoy a nice hot bath while talking about all sorts of matters arcane, social, and otherwise.


Meanwhile, with his desert rose preoccupied by her religious obligations, Felmor tags along eager to stretch his legs after having been cooped up in a carriage for over two weeks. As the trio of Mal, Felmor, and Talvyra walk north thru Valehaven's upscale and market districts, the combination of a sea captain in a land-locked valley, and a barefoot giant ranger walking a coal-black hunting cat draws more than a few curious glances. Fortunately, this makes moving thru the crowd rather easy as everyone nervously gets out of your way.

During your walk north, Mal's sharp eyes picked out no fewer than three stores selling fashionable footwear. One catering to just the ladies, another to lords, and the third for those gentlemen who enjoy sport hunting. Judging by the garish styles showcased in the window of the first men's shoestore, it seems like the hunting shop would be Mal's best bet.

Shouldering his way thru a door more suitable for someone under 6'6", Mal's nose instantly picks up on the scent of burning logs and of the substances used to cure and dress animals for mounting. The interior is style to resemble a mountain hunting lodge with log and stone construction, exposed beams and animal head trophies on the walls. Bison, caribou, bear, boar, deer, cougar, and other more exotic specimens. Bows, crossbows, spears and hunting swords are displayed upon the walls along with great tusks made of ivory. In the corner appears to be the skull of what would seem to be a large reptile of some sort.

Everywhere inside, there are overstuffed chairs upholstered with dark brown leather, and a low fire crackles within a massive stone hearth. In spite of the heat outside, and the fire inside, there is still a pleasant coolness to the air reminiscent of the mountains of Yandral and Ilmarond.

An older man with a white handlebar handlebar mustache turns when he hears a chime on the door ring. Upon seeing Mal he seems about to say something when a younger assistant whispers something to him

Perception Checks
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21

Perception DC 20:
"Sir, I believe I saw the tall fellow riding into town earlier. d'Calla's men looked to be escorting some people of quality and he was riding with them."

The old man gives a shallow nod and calls out in a booming voice. "Welcome to Allan's gentlemen! I'm Arthur and this fine fellow is Uriah. We pride ourselves on running the oldest and most respected outfitters in all the Dale. What might we do for you?"


Just to be clear. Mal is not bare-foot. He has trail-boots. He just threw out - or more accurately used for thrown weapons - his nice boots during their rooftop adventure.

"Yes, I came in with some 'people of quality'." A knowing smile grows on his face, "but I'll trust that you wont hold that against me."

He takes a few minutes to scan the store before speaking. "I'm not sure if this is the right store or not, but I need some black boots to go with my 'evening wear'." There is definitely a resigned note in his voice, "And I need them in a few hours. Can you handle such a request?"


Felmor looks at the contents of the shop, and notes the boots on display were not really nautical in nature, but they certainly would be suitable for walking about in landlocked areas. Even though the new boots provided by Laithoron and Alexis were still holding up well, he felt they were not really suited for this extended landwear. Maybe a new pair of boots would be a good idea for him as well.

"Aye, I t'ink I be using an additional pair o' boots, mebbe something a little more fancy, so I not be out o' place."


Felmor Traker wrote:
Even though the new boots provided by Laithoron and Alexis were still holding up well

Damn man, you've scarcely gotten them broken in yet. Clearly this rich living has gone to Fel's head. :P

Arthur seems to get a kick out of Mal's joke. "Ah, I can see that you're a serious customer and not like the young dandies come for a fox hunt! Uriah, the day is getting long, see if our friends would like some of the 4192 scotch."

Uriah pulls out a sturdy pewter decanter from beneath the counter along with a set of tumblers. "It has a good smoky peat body, 4192. Would you care for some?"

When Mal and Felmor nod in agreement he pours some of the liquor and sprinkles a small amount of water into it to awaken the aroma.

"Now then," says Arthus, "you fellows prefers a good sturdy boot to a lowly shoe. That I can appreciate! In my not-so-humble opinion, you can never go wrong with a harness boot. Good for whether you are riding, walking about town, or relaxing in camp. I wouldn't go climbing in a pair, but on level ground or in the saddle they've got my money. We also have a some without the harness if you prefer, some black reptile hide that are... bold, some with crosstraps, and lastly some thigh-highs that you can turn the tops down on like what the good captain is wearing. Those are mostly popular among the folks who like fowling or make frequent trips back up to Estoria."

He turns around and accepts a tumbler for Uriah before twisting the end of his mustache idly with his fingers. "That's what I've got as far as dress boots. The haughty taughtys might have some more at their shop, but they mostly stock short boots and dress shoes. Unless you like little tassels, gold buckles and plan on wearing tights though, you're do just as well here."


Well, you never know when Alis is going to want to play some hide and seek games with Fel, best to be prepared with a spare pair, he he.

Felmor blanches at the thought of being stuck wearing a pair of short dressy boots with gold buckles and tassels over a pair of tights. Neveah! He replies, "Yah, the 'arness boots be fine fer me, jes they gotta at least look classy, yet be functional. I don't plan on makin' it a career goin' ta high class affairs. I be likin' me reglar boots as well, so th' same style be good enough fer me."


Mal takes the glass more as a gesture of not being overly-blunt (as he knows he can be) more than because of any genuine interest in the drink. Before taking a swing, he swirls it around in the glass, trying to activate any hidden and potentially dangerous aromas in the drink while simultaneously taking a long sniff, nose held close. So he can be a paranoid one.

Also, not that i really need an explanation, but i have no idea what the freak a harness boot is…

"To be honest, I dont' care all that much for dress boots in general. If it were up to me, I'd stick with what i got. I know they work, and they're comfortable. I'd like something simple and comfortable that will look decent with my court clothes." Mal punctuates his final three words with one clawed finger apiece, "Black. Simple. Comfortable. That's all I ask."


"Easily done on both account." Arthur motions for Uriah to help out Felmor while he takes care of Mal. Surprisingly, he actually manages to find a pair of tall, black leather dress boots in stock that fit Mal. "Since you prefer simple, I looked for a pair without the harness rings. See how these feel..."

The stoic ranger paces about the shop like a lion surveying his territory. Black, simple, and comfortable, that works.

Within the blink of an eye compared to the geologic timescale of the Kirmoon twins' shopping trips, the two are both outfitted with new foot gear and have even gotten to sample some rather fine scotch. Judging by the position of the sun, barely half an hour has passed since the ladies entered Yvonne's mansion.

Shrugging their shoulders, the two men locate a small corner pub on the way back and find the means to kill another hour and a half.


Upon returning to the Golden Drake's HQ, they find that the two are both fully dolled up. Alis is wearing yet another red dress while Lureene is garbed in white and is employing some sort of magic that has transformed her wings to look like those of an angel. At present the two are in a back garden where Alis has been teaching Lureene how to play croquet.

Oy, thinks Felmor, an' which one is s'posed ta be the angel an' which the dev'l?

Alis uses a lightly built mallet with an overly long handle to knock a ceramic ball thru a pair of metal wickets lightly tapping a post set behind them. Looking up, she gestures at the two men punctuating each syllable with a motion of her mallet. "You– two– are– too– slow!"

With a little smile that informs you she's not upset, she replaces her mallet in a little rack containing a few more. With a big grin she says, "Right, let's go adventuring!"

When Felmor and Mal both shift uneasily in their new boots, she gives a fake sigh and says, "That's princess-ese for 'Let's get some dinner!' Even in this corset I still feel hollow!


"I'm game for some food."


Felmor wonders if his heart can handle any more surprises, 'Ave I seen Lureene wit' er wings like that before? I cannae remember.

"Well, we may be late, but it be fashionably late, methinks." He walks over to the angel Lureene, and offers her his arm, 'Wit' yer leave, milady?" He then says to Alis, "Cap'n, I be 'ungry enough fer a whole boardin' party!"


Lureene sets her mallet down This is a strange game, this croquet and looks at Felmor with a glint of amusement, in her eyes and replies in a sultry voice, "Why, I would be delighted, Knight-Captain! I should warn you, if you do anything inappropriate, I will be informing your Desert Rose of every exacting detail!" She then whispers, So she knows what to expect from you later!


When the four of you go to depart from the mansion, you are greeted by one of the gypsy couples that have been assisting in your journey, Atish, and his wife, Darya. Unlike the more colorful, albeit utilitarian clothes they wore during this first half of your journey to Malatesta, they are now dressed in simpler, less obtrusive blacks and greys. Their long, dark hair has been pulled back with Atish's worn in a single ponytail, and Darya's in a bun held by hairsticks.

"Your highness," Atish begins, "our Lady Yvonne requested that we attend to you and guide you around Valehaven at your whim. Please allow us this honor."


Alis smiles gently and responds, "Your lady is as thoughtful as she is beautiful. We would be happy to have your assistance."

With that, the two bow and go to fetch a carriage, but Alis calls them off that task, "Don't bother with the horses. It's a nice change getting to walk around for a bit. Now then, I was thinking we should go dine somewhere with a good wine list and then catch a show somewhere. Your mistress mentioned her friend Valeria runs a playhouse nearby, do you happen to know their schedule?"


"Yes princess," Darya nods her head. "a new play authored in Malatesta, called 'Epica', opens at Valeria's tonight. It is a two-part performance and the second part will performed tomorrow evening. I believe the premise deals with a magician who makes a deal with Mephisto for power in this life at the cost of his soul. It has been sold out for weeks, although all of the council members have private booths of their own. Lady Yvonne would be happy for you to enjoy it from hers."


Alis looks at Lureene for a moment as if gauging her reaction before asking, "And we will have time enough to dine before it begins?"


Darya nods enthusiastically yet Atish answers sooner, "Yes highness. It will be about two hours yet. There are four establishments nearby that would be capable of accommodating a woman of your station. I think perhaps that you would find The Aerie to your liking. It was built by an elf in days past within the boughs of a great oak in the park between the keep and cathedral. Each dining room is built upon a different limb. With spring not yet fully in bloom, it should offer a commanding view to dine by..."


"Oh, well that sounds lovely!" Alis remarks. Turning to Lureene, she asks, "Does that sound like fun to you Lureene? Dinner in an elvish treehome and a new play about magic and morality?"


Lureene is silent for a moment, her mind headed back to her childhood, and her thoughts head back to her father. When she had asked Majeff about him in the Silver Hart Inn No, it was called Limbo! How is that possible? I remember...No trust me, it was Limbo. Then the voice was silent. Lately she has found herself thinking about him, since Rath-hun has left, and especially after talking with Sertieren. She had a flash of insight then, about hopefully gaining some insight as to why her father did what he did. She really was afraid, deep down inside, as to what she will discover.

Alis watches Lureene struggle with her emotions, and realizing how much she is struggling with this is relieved to hear Lureene respond, "Yes, 'Lis, dinner sounds wonderful, and that play sounds like it would be quite educational, I am looking forward to it." Her voice is not filled with excitement, more a note of resignation, but she is handling this with grace and maturity.


With Atish and Darya leading the way, your party reaches The Aerie just as the sun is beginning to set and Brightpool is reaching her peak. Although all of the tables at the exclusive, towering restaurant were reserved, upon learning who wishes to dine at his establishment, the owner has a look over the evening's guest list and strikes a name from the list, "Ah, how clumsy of me, it seems I overlooked a table that had just opened up! We would be happy to entertain the the Princess of Silverwake and her guests!"

Perception Checks
Alis 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15
Lureene 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20

Perception DC 15:
You note the name on the guest list that was just crossed out read, "Lady Verona Kale and company."

Perception DC 20:
You can hear more than a few people murmuring in surprise than an elvish princess stands in Valehaven. Evidently your arrival was not previously known.


Felmor notes the name that was crossed off the list, and exchanges a glance with his 'date' Lureene. Oy, if'n that noble lady Kale comes here 'n sees this, there may be a scene.

He resolves to be extra vigilant, hoping to head off any trouble this evening.


Delicate platforms seemingly made of crystalized light loft your group high above the ground to the treehome's uppermost reaches nearly 60 feet above street-level. When you take your seats, you are greeted by a place setting with a ludicrous number of utensils, plates, dishes, and and glasses.

Alis notes the array and gives a faint nod of acknowledgement to the host sending him on his way. Once he is out of ear-shot, she make a comment to Mal:

Sylvan:
"Well, this is rather ostentatious. Of course I suppose we are a long way from any bastions of cultural renown..."

As the princess makes her commentary, servers arrive filling your furthermost glass with a chilled, rose-colored wine and placing a single bite-sized hors d’œuvre shaped like a pink rose in the center of your plate. Following Alis' lead you each finish the amuse-bouche in but two bites, surprised by the sweetness of mint and the searing sensation of fresh ginger that leaves your sinuses clear and your mouth watering.

Perception Checks
Alis 1d20 + 10 - 6 - 5 ⇒ (20) + 10 - 6 - 5 = 19 distance, floors
Felmor 1d20 + 8 - 6 - 5 ⇒ (7) + 8 - 6 - 5 = 4 distance, floors
Lureene 1d20 + 8 - 6 - 5 ⇒ (6) + 8 - 6 - 5 = 3 distance, floors
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 - 6 - 5 ⇒ (7) + 10 - 6 - 5 = 6 distance, floors

Perception DC 5:
From somewhere below, you hear a woman's voice raised in protest and the frantic apologies of the restaurant owner.

Before Felmor can stop sputtering from the headrush of the amuse, you are served an appetizer consisting of freshwater mussels on ice with a dressing flavored heavily with cilantro. Next come two courses of soup at which point Alis observes some hesitation on the knight-captain's part. She quietly advises everyone, "Begin with the outermost utensil and work your way inward. You will have one utensil for each course."

Lureene notes with a bit of dismay that there are no fewer than one dozen utensils before her and not nearly enough leeway in the corset Alis insisted on lacing her up in...

After being served soft-shelled crayfish, a noodle dish with a green and white sauce, stuffed songbirds, salad, braised lamb, pastries, cheeses, confections, and various spiced wines, even Malandraenas looks to be barely able to move for all the food you have consumed. When at last the servers place a single mint leaf dipped in dark chocolate before each of you, you steel yourselves and just barely manage to survive the final course. Corset laces and vest buckles creaking ominously as you do.

Observing everyone's distress around her, Alis bites her bottom lip a bit. Maybe I should have told them they didn't need to partake of everything so fully... Sipping on a goblet of cold water before her, Alis gestures to the host when he appears with the lead chef. Smiling graciously she says, "Please take the fact that my friends shall have need of palanquins to reach the theater as a compliment, Maestro!"


Even though it is only a distance of three city blocks and all downhill, you are actually happy to ride in a glossy black carriage that Atish and Darya prepared whilst you dined. At the playhouse, Valehaven's elite are decked out in their finest suits and gown with each successive carriage delivering land barons, heads of large local businesses, wealthy landowners, and members of all of Valehaven's noble houses save for Lady d'Calla.

From the carriage just ahead of yours, young woman with red hair in a close-fitting emerald dress emerges with a rather nervous-looking suitor by her side. Were it not for the grievous scowl on her face, she might pass for attractive. At her arrival, the theater's herald announces the pair, "The young Lord Kardon Jarmaand, and the Lady Verona Kale..."

Alis' eyes seem to grow a bit at the announcement almost seeming to say, 'Oops!'

Your carriage is the next to pull forward, but before the herald can quite announce the passengers of Yvonne's carriage, Darya is at his side handing him a note. The man's eyes grow wide and he clears his voice, "Ladies and Gentlemen, we are graced by a truly distinguished patron this evening. In the Lady Yvonne's stead, a it is a member of distant Ilmarond's royal family who joins us, the Princess Alissariel Kirmoon, ruler of Silverwake! Accompanying her are Knight-Captain Traker of Caen Carrinac and his retainer the Lady Lureene Ourson..."

Perception Checks (DC 20)
Alis 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12 +1 trapfinding
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12
Lureene 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27 +1 trapfinding
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22

Mal and Felmor emerge first to help the ladies disembark. While Felmor isn't quite tall enough to see over the press of people come to gaze upon the rich and famous, both Mal and Lureene (standing on the carriage's running board, can make out a veritable wave of frost emanating from Lady Kale before she turns and storm inside in a huff.

Inside the theater, the mistress of the theater, Valeria greets her esteemed guests as they arrive thanking them for their continued patronage and support of the arts. Cheese, wine, and champagne are served up on silver trays by girls dressed in gauzy lily-white dresses reminiscent of angels and men clad in dark reds to suggest a more fiendish persona. Valeria herself escorts your group to Yvonne's mezzanine booth, second from the stage on the right-hand side of the semi-circular playhouse.

She and Alis exchange a bit of inconsequential smalltalk lost amidst the many voices of the assembled crowd. In short order, you take your seats and after a short speech thanking the city's elite for their continued patronage of the arts, Valeria says, [b]"And now a masterpiece several years in the making. A tale of love lost, souls forlorn, and bets wagered by both mortal man and ghost divine. As above, so below. Behold, I present to you Epica!


Male Sky Elf Game Master lv 20

.
.
.
.
.
Epica: [ Cast | Plot | Lyrics ]

There will be time for some further narration, and RP during the intermission, etc. later on. For now, it's late and I just wanted to get this up here for you guys so you can read/listen at your leisure.

EDIT: Oh, and feel free to RP as you see fit even if it's stuff that might have come up at dinner or a particular part up thru the first half of the play. :)


Lureene sighs as the play gets underway, her dinner was sitting heavily in her stomach Wow, that was some good food! . She really was not sure what to expect from the play, as she has read plays such as these during her childhood. She soon found out, this was a completely different experience. When the play started, all thoughts of Lady Kale, Rath-hun, and indeed everything else vanished. She was really captivated by the saga of Ariel, and she wondered if her father had gone through the same period of self reflection and trials. How she wished she could see him, and ask him all these questions!

By the time the first intermission has arrived, she turns to Felmor (who, by the way, has endured the play with a stoic determination) and says quietly, with a voice choked with emotion, ”Excuse me, Fel, I need to freshen up.” Indeed, Felmor can see her eye makeup is streaked and definitely needs to be fixed.


"Oh, I'll come with you, El."

Looking at her friend's face as the two walk down the hallway towards the theater's lobby, Alis notes that Lureene's mascara has run. "It looks like the story got you all teared-up. It is pretty sad getting left because your lover has dedicated themselves to the pursuit of something higher than your love... Here, let me touch-up your make-up before we get out in the light."

With a quick cantrip, Alis fixes Lureene's make-up before checking her own. With all traces of tear-streaked cheeks gone, Alis gives Lureene a hug and whispers, "Are you doing alright?"


Mal shifts for the thousandth time in the chair which was obviously not made for a man of 7 feet. The lights of intermission come up as he keeps himself awake once more by pinching his fingers together time and again inches from his eye, make-believe smashing the performers' heads between a thumb and pointer finger.

As the girls walk out, Lureene obviously effected deeply for some reason, Mal leans over to the sailor (who looks to be handling the show only slightly better than Mal), "Kill me. Kill me now."

A burp escapes his lips, though he tries to make it a quiet one, "Though the ninety course meal was good. Not enough meat, but still…"

Just some filler here, folks. :D


Lureene returns the hug from Alis, and whispers back, "Thank you so much 'Lis! I don't know what I would do without you! You are like the sister I never had before." She smiles, and tries to put on a happy face, and succeeds somewhat. "You know, I have always wondered why my father made the choices he has, maybe he too was looking for the answer to life. Well, I think I am ready to return, I hope Fel is not too bored with this play."


Male Sky Elf Game Master lv 20

How can someone with Mal's accute senses sleep thru a heavy metal rock opera? :-o


Just because it's loud does not mean it's interesting. Just ask my dad. "Turn that crap down!"

Yah, and I'll cop to not reading or watching it... I really only get to post from work, so watching/listening to/reading all about any type of show is going to be difficult. Sorry for being 'that guy'. I know you put a lot of work into your DM posts.


Felmor barely manages to stay awake through the first part of the play, the big meal contributing, obviously, and when he hears the exortation of Mal, he responds quietly, Aye, only if'n ye drown me first. I t'ink mebbe me Desert Rose be havin' more fun 'ere."


Alis smiles at Lureene's words, "Well except for the wings, you could pass for a cousin on my Mom's side of the family. I think we'd have had a real blast if we'd grown up together. It will be about 15 minutes before the next act starts, let's visit the lady's room. Heaven knows the vintners in this valley have the benefit of really good soil. It would be a shame not to sample more of their artistry!"

While Alis' goal is simple enough, achieving it proves a bit more complicated. The moment the two beauties set foot onto the foyer's balcony, they are practically mobbed by both men and women from Valehaven's upper class. Whether seeking influence thru flattery, inquiries over whether Lureene is an actual angel, or romantic overtures from rich men, it takes very nearly the entire length of the intermission just to make it to the relative safety of the ladies' restroom.

While one or two women follow the pair inside, still chattering away, the sound of a rousing piano solo quickly summons most of the crowd back to their seats.

"Oh hell," Alis mutters, "it sounds like they must be about to start the second half!"


"Oh, there's no need to worry, your highness. I'm sure they will wait until you have returned to Lady d'Calla's box. It would never do to insult a friend of Valehaven's senior-most council member, particularly a friend of your station!"


Knowing a would-be gossip when she sees one, Alis tries to disarm the silver-haired woman's sycophantic talk, and dispel any rumors that might constitute a conflict-of-interest in Valehaven's political arena. The princess replies simply, "We are not friends per-se. My business is formally with the Golden Drakes. It just so happens that Lady d'Calla has decided to personally oversee my itinerary, nothing more. Thus far, she has handled my affairs with great professionalism. If you will excuse us..."

Thankfully, the older woman's guess proved correct and various musicians continue to demonstrate their skill until Alis and Lureene have retaken their seats. Sadly, in Alis' haste to be courteous to the other guests, and not tarnish Yvonne's good name, the two return without refreshment in-hand.

Once a bombastic drum solo that lights-up Alis' face concludes, the lights dim. The second act begins with Ariel whisked away to Mephisto's glorious palace where he holds a feast in the magician's honor as he continues the temptation of God's most favored human.


A few minutes into the second act, an usher approaches your box and Atish silently intercepts him. A moment later, he whispers something to Felmor.

Perception Checks
Alis 1d20 + 10 - 5 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 10 - 5 - 2 = 21 distracted, background noise
Lureene 1d20 + 8 - 5 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 8 - 5 - 2 = 12 distracted, background noise
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 - 10 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 10 - 10 - 2 = 14 asleep, background noise

Felmor OR Perception DC 20:
"Sir, we have received a gift for Lady Ourson."

Just barely able to hear the man, Alis taps Lureene's leg and gives a subtle gesture indicating the Atish and the user standing quietly in the doorway.


Felmor whispers back to Atish,

Atish or Perception DC 20:
“Aye, Thank’ee Atish, I be makin’ sure th’ Lady be receiving ‘er gift.”

Laithoron:
He takes the package and quickly examines the outside for any surprises.

Perception 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19


Male Sky Elf Game Master lv 20

Felmor:
It is a small black velvet box approximately the size of your palm. A silky red ribbon tied in a bow holds it shut. It doesn't seem to make any noise when you shake it, but it smells of a musky cologne. Accompanying it is a red lily and a small card with a short note written in a script that you cannot comprehend.


Felmor turns to his 'retainer' Lureene, and hands her the package, murmering "Tis a gift from one o' ye many admirers, Lureene. I took th' liberty o' examinin' it fer ye."

1000 posts! Yeah, this is a good start, but Midnight awaits...he he.


Lureene accepts the package from Felmor, and looks it over, noting nothing especially threatening about it, she unties the ribbon, and looks at the card affixed to it.

Perception 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20 +1 trapfinding

951 to 1,000 of 11,113 << first < prev | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | next > last >>
Community / Forums / Online Campaigns / Play-by-Post / [PbP] Wardove's Rumble in the Jungle All Messageboards

Want to post a reply? Sign in.