Wardove's Rumble in the Jungle

Game Master Laithoron

Before opening the box, Lureene reads the card addressed to her.

LK Calendar: Kevath 21, 4210 — Daegsday

"Lureene," Alis says softly, "wake up, it's morning!"

Lureene's eyes finally flutter open and you see that you are indeed in the room you and Alis were sharing back at the Golden Drake's estate. Yvonne stands over Alis' shoulder along with Priyya, and a tall elven woman with long golden-blonde hair spilling out from beneath a tall white miter trimmed in gold.

All of them breath a sigh of relief to see that you are awake and Alis gives you a big hug.

Yvonne turns to Priyya and the other woman and says, "I give thanks to you for keeping watch with us over this one. Your forgiveness I beg for the interruption of your vigil, Bishop Tredônia."

The tall elven woman nods her head slightly and responds, "There is nothing to forgive, Lady d'Calla. Alíta is all the more glorified by the miracles wrought in times of urgent need. Priyya, rest now, we shall begin our vigil anew at sundown tonight..."

When the three have exited the room, Alis sits cross-legged on the bed beside you still clad in the undergarments you wore last night to the theater. You note that it is now her mascara that has run and it seems that it was a sleepless night of everyone but Lureene.

"You sat so quietly after you touched the locket. The rest of us thought that you were intent upon the performance. But when it ended and you still were gazing into emptiness..."

Alis wipes her cheek with the back of her hand leaving a make-up smudge on her pretty face, "We feared that you had become possessed or something. You just kept repeating a word in a strange tongue that none of us understood, so Yvonne went to the cathedral to seek help from the high-priestess. Bishop Tredônia could find no curse or enchantment proper upon either you or the locket, but it did seem to possess a spiritual force of some sort that was indiscernible in nature, although it was not evil."

"The word," she hesitates for a moment, "the one you kept calling out once we put you to bed, was the one used for 'father' in the dark tongue. Lureene, what happened?"

Lureene looks over to Alis, directly at her, and the princess had never seen Lureene look quite like this before. Usually her gaze is sensuous and full of passion, a legacy of her mother. Sometimes, her human side comes to the fore and she looks like a young and beautiful girl, blossoming into womanhood. One thing is constant, her eyes are focused and direct...looking at life directly in front of her.

Not now...now her gaze is unfocused, and her eyes have a haunted quality about them, one Alis had never seen before, not even when Ravarath had threatened to leave her back in Cassomir (which does not exist in Elsemar, she now realizes). With an effort she looks over at Alis, and she sees unshed tears in her eyes. Whatever had happened to her, Alis realizes was and is a profound shock and upheaval.

She struggles to talk, "I...I...I was not here, I...it is...I... She grasps the locket tightly....and takes a shuddering breath. She touches the ring Rath-hun gave her, and tries to remember his lessons on focusing her discipline. She pulls Alis close to her in a tight embrace, and holds her tightly, not saying a word for a few moments.

Finally, her voice resumes its normal tone, but still an undercurrent of emotion running deep. "'Lis, I think I saw my father!" Her voice is mixed with a note of terror mixed with excitement.

After Lureene has explained what happened, Alis returns her embrace for a long while.

"'Lis, I think I saw my father!"

Alis sighs softly, and whispers, "I envy you. Dreams... visions... they are the only place I can see mine now." She at last gives you a strong squeeze and ends your embrace to picks up her lute.

"I hope–" the words choke in her throat a bit as her own tears threaten to well up again, "Let's find him then, 'El. I'm... not there yet, but maybe someday... when I have learned my art better, perhaps then I can help you to fine him. Maybe that mysterious locket will be the key..."

She sits still for a moment on the edge of the bed, back to you before asking, "Mind listening to a song I was trying to work out last night while I was next to you? It's not a happy song really, but it was just something that came to me in the night."

She looks over to see Lureene nod that it's ok, and her delicate fingers slowly begin to pick out out a haunting tune that raises goosebumps all up and down Lureene's arms and legs. A few measures in, Alis starts to sing in a quiet voice heavy with melancholy...

Song: Nothing Can Be Explained (vocal)

Lost, and awake, no one to blame, don't run away,

no escape from the way everything's changed

Lost, I feel a little like, a child who's lost, a little like,
everything's changed a lot, I didn't like all of the pain,

Lost, confused, a lot of it, is hard to take, and cause of it,
everything's changed I thought we'd make it through the pain

Given the chance I would happily dance on the grave of the one
who shows no remorse

Lost, I feel a little like, a child who's lost, a little like,
everything's changed a lot, I couldn't hide all of the pain,

Lost, confused, a lot of it, is hard to take, and cause of it,
everything's changed I wished you'd make it through the pain

nothing is plain
nothing can be explained, nothing

Given the chance I would happily laugh,
and be free to express what I feel
Given the the chance I could hold up my head and smile at you again
my friend

Sense Motive Checks:

Lureene listens to the haunting melody for the second time, and thinks furiously for a few moments. How did she know the melody…how is that possible? Recalling Alis said the song melody had just occurred to her last night, during her vision. One thing struck her about what Father had said, 'remember the prophecy'…and he had mentioned something about a…

”Alis, I need to ask you something,. How did you learn that melody…are you a…” Her voice drops to a whisper, and Alis needs to lean in close to hear, ”a Diviner?”

"Am I a diviner?" Alis pauses at the question seemingly asking herself as much as confirming the question. She sets down her instrument, and looks upward considering her words, "You know, that's not the first time someone has asked that of me. Priyya and I had a similar conversation on our way back from fighting a lake monster last month."

The princess gets a thoughtful look on her face as she begins to speak, "When we were younger, Alexis always had a gift for analyzing things, figuring them out and transferring what she learned to other applications."

She motions to your spellbook sitting on the nightstand.

"Now I guess most people would say that I act out of impulse. I'm sure you heard 'Sis teasing me about causing trouble. I know you overheard it after we fought the minotaurs when Mal and Priyya got upset with me!" She laughs and gives a half-smile. "Well, I know it might seem like I don't put much planning into my actions but... somehow I just seem to feel what to do. It's not like a hunch really, a hunch at least means you've got some information to work off of. This is something... different."

"I never really applied myself in magic classes because for some reason I could just make stuff happened. I tried not to do it too much though because it really used to get 'Sis upset. There I was doing a few things really well instead of learning magic the proper way like you and she are. I've also had experiences where I dream of things before they happen or suddenly start whistling or playing a tune that someone else was thinking about."

"After Laithoron rescued me and King Aramandil adopted us, I remember going along with Laurel, er– Larathiel when she was out hunting with her eagle one day. I remember remarking, 'When I'm all grown up, I want to be a great leader like you. I want to inspire people with my actions, not sit on a throne like Lareisian.' She gave me the oddest look and asked what I meant. I thought it weird that she would ask something that seemed so obvious so I explained that someday Lareisian would rule Ilmarond as king while she would be a great general. Now apparently the high priest who blessed them at their birth had made such a prophecy, but it was only ever told to the King. When Laurel asked him about it, he was as surprised as she was."

"When they called me in talk with me, I remember Alexis chiding me that I shouldn't be getting into trouble so much and to quit whistling the silly tune that I was doing. Well, the king was actually nearby and overheard it and he was moved to tears. Apparently, it was the one song Laurel and Reis' mother was able to sing to them as newborns before she passed away — one she had written especially for that day. No one else but he and the midwife ever heard it."

"Later on, the next time Laurel and I were out together, she said that she thought I had a gift for divination and that I should develop it further. I was a bit disappointed because I wanted to be a great swordswoman like her, but after everything that happened after Priyya, Fel, 'Sis, Morg, and I went on that trip a few weeks ago, I made up my mind to start working harder at it. I guess it took 'Sis and I getting separated again for me to realize I can't always just depend on her smarts and spells all the time."

"So am I a diviner diviner? Well, I'm not there quite yet but developing that knack into something I actually have some control over — well, that's what I'm striving for... even if only to know that Alexis is doing alright... Or at least not having too much fun causing trouble without me."

"Wait... what's that got to do with what I was just playing now? Don't tell me–"

When Lureene nods her head, Alis gets a chill and rubs her arms to warm away the goosebumps. "Weird!" is her only reply.

Lureene shivers at the end of the tale and wonders at the portent. She recalled with perfect clarity the first time she had seen Alis, it was at Limbo, and her first impression was Is she working for my enemies?” One thing for certain, she remembers fondly, Alis certainly made quite an entrance that day.

She turns back to the bard, and asks, ”Do you remember the time I asked Majeff about my father, and the reply he spoke?” When Alis nods in remembrance, she continues, ”I don’t remember if I mentioned this before, but during my vision, my Father mentioned the Diviner. He said: Remember the Diviner.”

She shivers again, and whispers quietly, Could he have known about you Alis, is that possible?”

"Hmm..." Alis bites her lower lip as she thinks on this, "I suppose you wouldn't know this, but when we were off tomb-diving, Priyya was actually injured pretty badly. I was too. While we were both out, she received a vision from Alíta and Súmalya in which I figured prominently. That's the reason why she's traveling with us now actually. If your Father was a powerful mage, particularly one who had dealings with powerful outsiders... well, I suppose only he and the gods would know for sure. Given everything that's happened lately though, I wouldn't rule it out as a possibility."

Alis scrunches up her forehead in concentration, "Didn't Majeff mention some other signs also?"

When Lureene remarks about the two moons and the lightning-struck tower, she nods. "The name 'Kirmoon' means 'holy sword' in the eldermost elvish dialects. But it still sounds similar to the common word 'moon' for Brightpool and Darkshoal. If you father is from a different world, I wonder if "two moons" meant the ones that Elsemar has, if maybe it refered to two Kirmoons."

She looks up and says frankly, "It could be both, actually. Two Kirmoons would be even more specific than simply indicating Elsemar. As for the imagery of a tower struck by lightning..."

Alis hops off the bed and starts rummaging thru her backpack. She pulls out a small bag with ivory-colored drawstrings. It is crafted from silvery silk and lined in lavendar. From it, she removes a deck of ornately illustrated cards bearing scenes of fey, spirits, deities and other creatures of myth. She rifles thru it quickly until she says, "There we go," and removes a single card which she shows to Lureene.

CARD: The Lightning-struck Tower

"The imagery is always somewhat different, but the essence and meaning of it remains the same. The Tower, The Falling Tower, The Lightning-struck Tower... it always represents tumultuous change, often times as the result of arrogance, of someone reaching beyond their grasp, perhaps even challenging the gods in their hubris. When we were at the Golden Drakes' compound, just outside of Caen Carrinac," she points to the card. "This is the card that Yvonne gave to Bajala as the way to identify to Auntie Corrina that she sent him. While that's not exactly a reading really, it does tend to stand out when you think about things, huh?"

Lureene nods at the response from Alis, and replies, ”I should talk with Priyya about her vision, it may have more clues.” she lays back in the bed, and stretches her wings out, and says thoughtfully, ”I suppose our meeting like this was more than just a coincidence, and there is someone who has preordained this meeting.” She pauses for a second, and then continues, ”I have never considered myself religious before, but from what I have experienced, I believe someone higher up has taken an interest in me…in us.”

She climbs out of bed and stretches her body out, while saying, Alis, I am fortunate to have you as a friend, and if you wish to join me in finding my father, I would welcome your company. As a matter of fact, I would treasure it.”

"Aww, well thanks for saying so," she takes your hand and gives it a friendly squeeze, "that's really sweet, Lureene. Once we get this diplomatic situation in Dafar settled, we'll have to work at honing our skills and spells to make sure they're up to the task."

Alis yawns, "Ooooh noooo," and stretches before flopping down on the bed. "Oof... I think last night's finally catching up with me."

Speaking a cantrip, the laces on her corset loosen and Alis gives the telltale moan that all women do when freed from their corset — the bodicegasm. Her skirt and other fine garments go flying soon after. It a fit of laziness she then crawls into her red satin nightgown and squirms until she's snuggled up beneath the covers, hugging an extra pillow to herself.

"Hey El, wake me in time for the play, alright? We've got a night-out to make up!"

Yawning once again, she rolls over putting her back to the light from the window and mumbles, "'Lis-Lis go nappy now, nite-nite!"

And like a candle, she's out!

I'm pretty sleepy myself from late nights all this week. Tomorrow, we can fast-forward to the evening. If Lureene, Felmor, and Mal want to discuss things while Alis is out, by all means, feel free. Oh, FWIW, after all their conversing and such, it's now late morning in game-time.

Lureene gazes for a moment at the sleeping form of Alis. A strong urge to go back to sleep arises in her, and she wishes she could just sleep away the rest of the day, even though she felt physically ok. Then her Father's word's came to her: "Abandon your fear, move forward and never stop." She realized then she was afraid, not of dying, but of what the future might hold, of moving forward in other words. Well, no more. Her Father needed her, as much as she needed him. She would not let him down.

She pulls the blanket over the sleeping form of Alis, and then moves to the bathroom to freshen up and change into a fresh set of clothes. She decides on a light blue dress, silk of course, and a pair of white sandals, would work fine for her. Once she is done refreshing her makeup, (she discovered she likes doing it manually, even though she could use a cantrip for such) she slips out of the suite and heads off to the room where Priyya and Felmor were staying.

She knocks on the door and awaits for a response.

Felmor hears the soft knock at the door and moves to answer it. When he sees Lureene, he sags in relief and guides the beautiful succubus inside. Lureene can see he has also not slep well. Once she has settled, Felmor motions to the sleeping form of his Desert Rose, and says to her, "Ach, Lureene, I be so sorry fer givin' ye that cursed gift! If'n i knew what it be doin' ta ye, I woulda tossed it inta th' river! Ye scared all o' us. When Lureene protests, he waves off her words, and gives her a hug. Lureene feels comforted by the strong embrace and her fears are chased away, for the moment. "Priyya be sleeping afer a while, she watched oveah ye, but couldna expalin what had 'appened ta ye. Ye dinnae need ta tell me 'til ya be ready, 'k Lureene? Lureene nods wordlessly.

He then motions to the door, and asks "Ye look starved, would ye like some company?" After Lureene agrees, he walks over to Priyya, and gently kisses his Rose, "Sleep well, beloved."

He then takes Lureene's arm and they depart the room, looking for Mal.

You're surprised as you step out into the hall and you nearly walk into Mal, whose long legs were carrying him quickly to Lureene's room. There is genuine concern in his eyes as he takes in Lureene's apparently healthy self, "It's good to see responsive again, Lureene. How do you feel?"

Lureene returns Mal's smile, although both Felmor and Mal notice there is a strained look in her eyes. Clearly she is not recovered, although her wounds appear to be purely spiritual.

"I am doing much better now, thank you, Mal." She bends up to give the towering warrior a hug, needing some physical contact. Once he has released her, she says, "Princess Alis is napping now, so I thought to take a walk outside for a while and grab something to eat."

As the girl hugs Mal, his body tenses as he tries to hide a look of discomfort. Never was good with girls.. especially emotional ones. He thinks as she backs off. "It's good to hear. Food sounds good." His tired eyes swing down the shadowy corridor, and a low rumble calls to Talvyra, who was resting near Mal's door. She inclines her head, brushes past the two-legs and goes to sit near the sleeping Alis's door.

He is quiet as they leave their hallway and head out into the main room and the streets beyond. It only then occurs to Lureene that Mal still wears the clothes he wore the night before.

When you head outside, you find that Yvonne herself is preparing to head out as well. The black-haired woman is dressed more formally than you have previously seen and seems to be in a serious mood.

Upon seeing Lureene, she gives a relieved smile. "Glad I am to see you walking, Miss Lureene. When from Bishop Tredônia word arrived of your state, the worst I feared. Today to a council meeting I must go. This matter with the late Lord Kale must be resolved. Be well. On this day, the lips of all the wealthy speak your names..."

With that, Yvonne swings herself up into her horse's saddle and sets off for the castle atop the city's central hill.

Lureene gives Yvonne a curstey of thanks, as Yvonne mounts her horse, and replies, "I do appreciate your help in assisting with my situation, I hope your day goes smoothly, and I am hoping you have time to spend the evening with us. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Yvonne purses her lips at Lureene's gratitude. "Truly, precious little was there that any of us could do. Not by any hand of ours were you saved, of that much I am certain."

"As for dinner," She gives a sigh and looks towards the castle, "I too share that hope, however, a meeting such as this likely will be lengthy. Please, enjoy for me the play. I shall look forward to your retelling of it."

With that, she nods to you and sets off up the street bordering the cathedral.

While the bulk of the day passes without incident, that is hardly to say that your mundane activities pass without notice. Most everywhere you go, people dote over you and a great many mistake Lureene for Alis. By the mid-afternoon, if rumor would have its way, then much of Valehaven should believe that the Alis was not only the ruler of all of Ilmarond but also a winged angel.

Even while attempting to enjoy some lunch at a sidewalk café that you find proves difficult with gossips lingering nearby. Just when Mal is about to lose it however, a woman's harsh voice rebukes the gathered crowd, "Do you people have no affairs of your own to attend to without harassing our guests' every step? Begone, the lot of you!"

Looking up from your meal, you see a somewhat attractive woman with vibrant red hair and an imperious gaze staring down your onlookers. She is dressed all in black with a veil of mourning covering her face. At her side, stand two sombre halberdiers. Their surcoats bear a standing griffin holding a ledger, on the top, the griffin is gold with a blue background behind it while the bottom half is the reverse. Tied about their left arms are black bands indicative of a mourning period.

At the grim woman's admonishment, the crowd in the street disperses with mumbled apologies.

"Please forgive the people of Valehaven," the woman says, "there is precious little excitement to be found here that does not arrive by road or river. I suppose imagination runs wild in the absence of more worldly experience."

Upon turning to face you, you recognize the woman as Lady Kale. "We have not met formally, although I heard you introduced at Valeria's last night. My name is Verona, Lady and now head of House Kale. Late last night, I received news of my father's passing. I had hoped to convey my gratitude to her highness for the capture of those responsible for his death, but it seems that she has not joined you this afternoon."

She removes a small card from the sleeve of her dress and hands it to one of her bodyguards to give to Felmor. "If I might be so bold, I would like to repay the princess and all of you for giving House Kale this chance for justice."

Perception 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

Still wary from last night, Felmor looks over the card before handing it to anyone else. Thankfully, there doesn't appear to be anything suspicious about it.

Mike Check 1d20 ⇒ 17

Sense Motive Checks:
Felmor 1d20 + 8 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 5 + 2 = 22 distrustful, AA from Lureene
Lureene 1d20 + 2 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 5 = 10 distrustful
Malandraenas 1d20 + 2 + 5 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 2 + 5 + 4 = 25 distrustful, AA from Felmor

While Felmor reads over the letter, a messenger boy runs up to one of the noblewoman's guards and hands him a letter. The man inspects it and promptly hands it to his mistress.

Lady Kale reads it quickly and gives a frustrated sigh. "Please forgive me, but duty cares little for periods of mourning. Urgent business calls me away to my estate. I shall hope to see all of you again and thank your princess personally about an hour before the sun sets if it pleases her highness to do so. If you will excuse me..."

With that, Lady Kale and her men depart and help her into a black carriage waiting not far down the street.

Felmor rubs his temple, feeling the stress of worry over Lureene, not to mention the lack of sleep. He really could not see a way out of refusing the offer by the House Kale. This be why I like sailin', at least i kin sees th' rip currents 'n storms approchin on th' horizon.

He says quietly once the Lady Kale has departed, "Och, I dinnae see anyway out o' this wit'out insultin' th' Lady Kale. I still dinnae trust 'er, but I be followin' th' lead of th' Princess. Sometimes ye gotta sail inta th'wind afer ye git dashed on th' rocks. We may learn somethin' as well regardin' the true happenins, too."

Once the threesome has finished lunch, he says, "Mebbe we kin dig aroun afer some rumors, we still gots several hours left, let's not waste it."

Lureene looks at the sailor, and thinks for a moment. It cannot be a coincidence! My vision, and the arrival of Lady Kale have to be related somehow! Try as she might, she could not think of any overt connections.

She speaks up, "I have no problems hunting for more information, but..." as she indicates her angelic wings, doing so anonymously will be impossible, I think. Still, worth the effort I think. Yvonne said House Kale has a fell reputation, maybe we can see how well liked they are by the rest of the townspeople."

Diplomacy Felmor 1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 8 + 2 = 30 AA Lureene
Diplomacy Lureene 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15 aid Felmor

Sweet!

With Malandraenas playing the part of the silent bodyguard, Felmor and Lureene get to work. Lureene suggests that the upscale tavern Yvonne mentioned, The Six of Coins would probably be a good bet. On your way there, you pass Allan's, the outfitters at which Felmor and Mal both bought boots the day prior.

"Felmor," Mal says, "didn't the men we captured say that old Lord Kale was a big game hunter?"

The savvy captain catches the ranger's meaning. "Aye an if'n this be tha mother load for yer distinguished hunter..."

Your group enters and Uriah greets you, "Ho friends, welcome back!"

Arthur pokes his head out of the back room and clutches his chest pretending to have a heart attack. "By the gods lad, you could teach me a thing or two about hunting if you snared yourself such an angel! Uriah! Fetch the lady a chair so she doesn't have to sit on her own wings! Now surely you didn't come on back just to give me a heart attack, what can we do for you! "

After Felmor explains Lord Kale's fate over a glass of Scotch, Arthur shakes his head sadly. "Well a man like that would want to go out while on a hunt, but at the hands of the Ghostlord...? No, that's a bad fate... Now I wouldn't quite say that old Baltus was quite senile. Sure he'd get lost in telling tales and might forget that it was Daegsday instead of Alsday, but he didn't forget who his friends and family were. Janus knows, he had a steadier shot than me and he was 10 years my senior!"

"That said, the man was a sucker for a dare. Never would back down from a challenge. Of course, I guess that's how he built up his merchant house the way he did. Between being wealthy, a dead-eye shot, and damn near fearless, I'm pretty sure even the worst of the Dale's thugs would have thought twice about trying to pull one over on the old man!"

Uriah comments, "Too bad for him, the only thing scarrier than Baltus was that daughter of his. He couldn't offer a dowry big enough to get anyone to take that shrew off his hands!"

"Uriah, manners! Please excuse my younger associate, he had the misfortune of catching Miss Verona's eye once. When he wouldn't have anything to do with her, he ended up having a convenient run-in with the Tar Dogs that night."

"Tar Dogs?" asks Lureene.

"Oh sorry, I forgot you folks aren't from around here. The Tar Dogs are a gang here in in the Dale. Get their name because they've got all the courtesy of a pack of mad dogs, but have been as hard to push out permanently as if they've got tar on their feet."

Felmor shrugs and asks, "So are ye be sayin' tha Lady Kale sicked thugs on yer pal fer scornin' 'er?"

"Weeell..." Arthur scratches the back of his head, an uncomfortable look on his face, "let's just say that I'd rather not say. If you get my meaning. Miss Verona isn't exactly a big hunter so I doubt she'd lose too much sleep if Allan's had to close its doors..."

Standing up, Arthur shakes Felmor's hand and says, "Well it's been good talking with you Captain, Sir. You and your bodyguard should probably try to get those new boots of yours broken in before you continue on your way. The Six of Coins isn't too far away, that might be a good jaunt for you."

Felmor returns Arturs handshake, and replies, "Thank ye fer givin' us a peek inta th' workins of Lady Kale. Sounds like a right piece of work she is." He escorts Lureene out of the shop and as they threesome head off to the Six of Coins, he reflects on what his Desert Rose reactions to this revelation would be. Certainly not a calm reaction, he was sure.

Lureene then chimes in, "So his daughter is a shrew...no surprise there. Still this leaves many questions unanswered...but I suspect Lady Kale uses this Tar Dog gang to put pressure on rival merchants, and drive them out of business. I have some...prior experience with such tactics."

At The Six of Coins you find that gossip and politicking, and arranging secret deals are the main pastimes of its patrons. The individuals there are eager to learn what they can about you and the princess, particularly why the Princess of Silverwake would be traveling thru Elsmyr Dale to reach Malatesta instead of sailing south along the coast of the Fang Sea.

News of the trouble with raiders from Trull is met with interest, but finding out that Dafar, rather than Malatesta, is Alis' ultimate destination (and why) proves all the more interesting.

In exchange for the scant details that you disclosed (in order to gain the confidence of those in-the-know), you are able to learn a few tidbits of your own:

• Even though she doesn't care for hunting, Verona would often accompany her father to distant cities on her trips. A handy way of making contacts in other areas.
  
• Baltus was well enough liked, but people knew not to cross him.
  
• Calling the Tar Dogs a 'gang' is like calling a well-organized militia a couple of guys with some weapon training. How hard could it be to root out thugs in an isolated place like this if they didn't have ways of blending in and backers?
  
• Damn right Yvonne wouldn't trust House Kale, they both head rival merchant factions. Kale controls the guilds, the Golden Drakes control transportation infrastructure and hold trade treaties.
  
• Not just anyone could have dared Baltus to do something so foolish, it would have had to be someone with some pull, a rival or maybe up and coming hunter.
  
• Dinner with Verona? She's probably just wanting to make some new contacts. Can you blame her? The princess of an important trading city like Silverwake would be a valuable ally.

And that's about all you're able to get in the time you have. Figured I'd provide 1 item per 5 pts of Felmor's Gather Info check.

Felmor looks up after the final drinks were bought and noticed the sun has dropped to an alarmingly low level in the sky. He motions to Lureene, who at this point has three young men surrounding her, not willing to allow a gracious departure. Fortunately, the presence of Mal, plus a well timed scowl, allowed Lureene to extricate herself with a timely departure.

Soon the trio is hurrying back to the Golden Drakes compound, where it falls to Lureene to inform the Princess of the slight change in dinner plans.

Let me know how much coin to deduct from Felmor's private stash. He will buy all the drinks himself.

No need to worry about such expenses, even though the drinks at The Six of Coins were high-test and costly, Alis basically has you guys billing your food/lodging, etc. to her expense account as part of your per diem for being part of her retinue.

Upon returning to the Golden Drake's HQ, Felmor is just able to catch a hug and a kiss from Priyya. Since last night's vigil was interrupted, she is head back to at the cathedral in the hopes of receiving an answer to a question that has weighed heavily upon her mind for several weeks now. With the Sun drawing ever closer to the western horizon, Felmor gives her a quick recap of the awkward place you have all been put in. The warrior-priestess merely mutters something in a foreign tongue and gives you all a knowing look. "Alis was finishing her bath just a few minutes ago. I'm sure she's going to be thrilled about this."

Priyya gives Felmor one more kiss and jokes, "Good luck, you'll need it..."

Inside, the mansion is quiet save for the faint sound of Alis singing something in an indecipherable language upstairs. While Mal and Felmor head off to get ready for this evening's trials, Lureene mercifully relieves Felmor of the heavy burden of presenting Alis with the letter from Lady Kale and steels herself for whatever might occur next.

Lureene enters the room she and Alis are sharing accommodations. She sighs inwardly, and wonders to herself, Is this what it is like to be royalty, to do things you don't want to do all the time? Well, let's hope the nap 'Lis took improved her disposition. While Lureene had never really seen Alis upset, she remembered the old moniker, there is a first time for everything...

"Hello, 'Lis. It's just me, 'El. I hope you had a good nap. Unfortunately, I am afraid we have been invited to a dinner for this evening." She takes out the letter provided by the Lady Kale, and hands it over to Alis, while wondering if she should take cover behind the armoire.

"Hello, 'Lis. It's just me, 'El. I hope you had a good nap. Unf–"

Before Lureene can finish her comment, Alis looks up from doing her make-up and shifts her song into Estoria singing:

"Hel-lo Lu-reene, hel-lo Lu-reene,

Nights are much bet-ter,
in pleasant wea-ther, moon on the sea!

To-night we dine with play-er stars,
Va-ler-i-a and hers are ours!

To-night's much bet-ter,
when you're un-fet-tered,
when you're with me!"

Lureene notices that Alis is wearing the same dress that she wore at The Black Boar following a rather tumultuous shopping trip in Caen Carrinac about a month ago. Catching her friend's gaze, Alis says, "It's only gauche to wear a dress more than once if it is to an official function. I was just... trying it out last time!" She gives you a playful wink and says, "It can be our little secret alright?"

As Alis pauses half a second to take a breath, Lureene quickly finishes what she was trying to say before.

Unfortunately, I am afraid we have been invited to a dinner for this evening."

"Oh, so you heard already?!" Alis face lights up while Lureene crosses the floor, the letter in her hand growing heavier with each step she takes. "Well news travels quickly in Valehaven it seems. Yes, while the three of you were out, I received an invitation to dinner from Valeria! Apparently Yvonne informed her about how much I love theater, so she reserved the private balcony dining room at The Six of Coins. The star actors and actresses who play Ariel, Mephisto, and Helena, and the ochestra's conductor will be joining us. If The Black Halo is every bit as good as Epica was last night, I think I might invite them to Silverwake."

She gives a skweeeeing sound as she takes the letter Lureene offers, "The court of Ilmarond will either be green with envy or red with bluster, I can hardly wait! Oh what's this?"

And in the next moment, a scream the likes of which only the Howling Wastes of Pandemonium could rival blasted thru the mansion of Yvonne d'Calla! A few moments later, Mal bursts in thru the door axe in hand with Felmor right behind him. By the look in his eyes, clearly he thought to find a murder in progress. Instead he finds a veritable aura of flame emanating from his princess.

"What... in the Nine Hells?!"

Lureene looks over to Felmor and Mal, and waves them off, her look says plainly, 'let me handle this'. With a dubious look, Felmor looks at the angel, who does not look very angelic at this moment now, and grabs Mal's elbow, guiding the ranger out of the room.

Once the door has closed, Lureene mutters a few choice words in the dark tongue, and approaches the upset Princess, taking her hand, and strokes her arm. Trying to keep thoughts of draining every drop of life from Lady Kale's body out of her voice, she says in a heated tone, "This explains everything, now. That Lady Kale knew about this all along!" She pauses, and takes a calming breath. "If I were not a member of royalty, I would tell Lady Kale to take a long walk off a short pier. However, Felmor and I learned some items while we were out earlier." Quickly, she recounts the tidbits of information she and Felmor learned at the Six of Coins.

"If this was up to me, I would tell Lady Kale you have a prior engagement! However, I know you have other things to consider, being a Princess and all. "

She stands up, feeling bad all of a sudden, and gives Alis a hug, "I'm so sorry about this."

"I'm so sorry about this."

She shakes her head and gives a short laugh,"Oh, you're not as sorry as 'Lady' Kale will be when she finds herself dining alone tonight!"

Alis paces back and forth fuming. Don't burn the city down. Don't burn the city down... Think like 'Sis. Think like 'Sis...

"Okay, I'm trying to think calmly here. Just to be clear, you have nothing to apologize for. Now then, El, could you please repeat what you and Felmor learned earlier?"

As Lureene speaks, Alis makes a point of writing everything down and then speaking it aloud to herself as she thinks.

"So, she's trying to 'spin' the situation to make it look like she and her father are poor innocent victims instead of ego-centric power players. That's not a bad alibi I suppose. Of course, even if we didn't already have plans, attending a dinner at her estate would not only be a huge insult to Yvonne and a great embarrassment, but it would lend credence to this ruse."

"The fact that she went and advertised that she is in morning even though news of Lord Kale's death hasn't been made public is further proof that she's trying to steer the situation how she wants it. Still, why would she think that someone staying in her rival's home would even deign to accept such an invitation?"

"As for the theory about her wanting to win influence," she rolls her eyes, "If that is what Valehaven't elite are inclined to think then so much the better. At least that is an honest and understandable agenda. Not that all people of influence don't have ulterior motives of course..."

Alis sighs and returns to working on her make-up, "Well, we should be departing tomorrow so I suppose it is really not our problem. I'll write up a reply in a moment sending our apologies. If we make no reply at all, then that would be ambiguous. However, taking the time to decline her request will actually send a message as to where our loyalties lie."

She closes her war-chest and looks up from her handglass, "Wouldn't you agree?"

Lureene smiles at Alis, and nods in agreement. "I agree with you about her motivations, it would not surprise me to learn she has demonic blood in her!" She laughs, glad Alis has recovered from her bout of anger. She realizes she needs to refresh her makeup, so she motions for Alis to hand her the war-chest, and proceeds to freshen up her rouge, eye shadow and mascara.

As she works on her face, she says, "This will make her an enemy, you know, and she does have those brigands working for her, those Tar Dogs. I know we will be out of her influence, but what of Y'vonne? I don't want to see anything happen to her because of us."

She finishes her makeup, and asks, "How do I look? Will this dress be all right?"

"Well, Yvonne is quite capable of taking care of herself. Gods know that woman has already helped to save our necks more than once already. Also, the Golden Drakes have an advantage the Tar Dogs don't — they can operate in plain view without having to hide from the scrutiny of justice. I suspect that if they tried to escalate matters to a full-fledged turf war that the city guard would be forced to take more direct action against them."

"As for that dress, she frowns slightly, "it looks lovely on you, but you've already been seen wearing it about town on your own time. You should really get changed into something a bit more extravagant for our evening out, particularly since we are heading back to the same tavern you were at earlier. It might look like I can't afford to provide all of you with adequate wardrobes otherwise. Since I'm wearing gold and silver, maybe that amethyst gown we picked up would be a good choice..."

"Oooh, I like that color, I think that would be a great choice! Now, if you could just help me untie this..." Before too long, thankfully, Lureene is all dressed and ready to go before it is time to depart.

As Mal lets himself and Felmore be ushered into the hallway, he shoots a feral grin at the sailor. "Looks like we may have some fun in this town after all. I'd hide a weapon or two on your person for tonight, Traker..." he says while flashing two clawed fingers out of his cuffs, "... just to be safe."

Before heading out the door to the awaiting carriage, Alis hails a courier. "Please see this delivered to Lady Kale at her estate post-haste."

Felmor shoots Mal a grin, and lifts the corner of his baldric coat, exposing the sword gifted to him by the Princess, not to mention his other weapons. "One o' th' 'vantages of bein' knighted, he he. If'n th' Tar Dogs try somethin', we be ready fer 'em."

Yes, since Felmor is a knight it would be UNgentlemanly for him to NOT to have a sword at his hip. Likewise, since Mal is a bodyguard, it would be expected for him to be armed discretely.

It wold take quite a bit of work for Mal not to be armed... as his primary weap's are his claws.

There is a sense of relief in our carriage that you will be dining with people who actually work for a living rather than with Lady Kale. While the repast at the Six of Coins is not a 12-course dinner, the roasts and spirits offered are much more to Mal and Felmor's liking. For their part, Alis and Lureene derive sustenance as much from rubbing elbows with fellow performers. At more than a few points, the private dining room erupts with a cappella improv until Alis runs downstairs and returns with a mandolin, a tambourine, and a drummer who is wide-eyed with disbelief at the company in which he has found himself.

As the nine of you prepare to head to the theater, Alis eagerly accepts Valeria's suggestion that she sing at the intermission with the accompaniment of the orchesta. The conductor enthusiastically agrees, stating that she might sing on of the central pieces to another popular suite, "Princess, have you heard The Flowers of Evil before? I think its themes of decadence and ennui would be poignant to Ariel's tale..."

Not long after you finish dinner, you arrive at Valeria's playhouse. After a good deal of socializing, you find that Lady Kale is not among those present for this evening's performance. Within a short time, the lights dim, the curtain rises and Ariel's tale continues in:
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The Black Halo: [ Cast | Plot | Lyrics ]

• March of Mephisto & When the Lights Are Down
  
• The Haunting (Somewhere in Time) and Soul Society
  
• Interlude I (Dei Gratia), Abandoned and This Pain
  
• Intermission
  
• Moonlight and Interlude II Un Assassinio Molto Silenzioso
  
• The Black Halo and Nothing Ever Dies
  
• Memento Mori
  
• Interlude III - Midnight and Serenade

Near the end of the intermission, Alis makes certain to disappear awaiting the cue of the conductor before reappearing. The sound of the orchesta's playing draws everyone back to their seats, although there are more than a few people joking about the princess' prerogative in being late once again. However, when the lights dim and Alis begins to saunter down the central aisle towards the stage as she sings, the whispered gossip falls to silence.

SONG: The Flowers of Evil

Mal remains far more alert during this play than the last, though his eyes rarely land on stage. Even if she's not officially my charge, I'll be hog-tied naked if someone is able to get the drop on Lureene again that easily.

His near paranoid alertness is only heighten as Alis's performance draws near, and Mal is forced to try to keep an eye on both women - and all their surroundings - at once.

Felmor looks over to Mal, and notices his watchfulness. Knowing the Lady Kale has not appeared for the show, he fears the worst. He silently motions to Mal, indicating to watch Alis, while he guards Lureene, watching his surroundings like a hawk.

About half-way thru the first act, all of you notice Lady Kale and her retinue arrive in their box and take their seat. More than a few times, it appears that she tries to catch Alis' eye, but the princess makes a point of not taking notice. When the intermission arrives, she immediately bolts from her box making a bee-line around the theater, but with some quick thinking, she employs a disguise self potion she kept handy and slips away. When Lady Kale reaches the vicinity of your box, she looks to Felmor and Lureene waving the letter at them and asks, "What is the meaning of this letter I received? I invited no such provocation!"

Perception Checks
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17
Lureene 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

Sense Motive Checks:
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24
Lureene 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Malandraenas 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

As Lady Kale's voice rises, others nearby whisper and glance at her and she gives a growl of frustration, flings the letter at Felmor's chest and turns to storm back to her private box.

Curious over what exactly Alis said before, the Knight Captain has a look over the letter...

Perception Checks
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28
Lureene 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Malandraenas 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

Sense Motive Checks:
Felmor 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13
Lureene 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7
Malandraenas 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Linguistics 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

EDIT: Theme Song

Felmor thinks, Aye, looks like th’ bilge be overflowin’… . After scanning the letter, he notices the syntax of the letter is all off. He had never noticed Alis talk like this before. Shrugging he hands the Letter over to Lureene, and whispers, ”What do ye make o’ this?” as he points out the discrepancy on the letter.

Once Lureene points out the obvious forgery, he nods and says quietly, "Oy, betteah hang on ta that, Lureene. Methinks Alis will wanna see it."

He then turns to Mal and says quietly, "Ye may wanna find Alis, I t'ink somethin' be afoot."

At this point you are about 5 minutes into the 15-minute intermission. That leaves you 10 minutes to take whatever actions you want before Alis' performance begins.

Mal nods at Traker's words, "You may be right. Shout if you need anything.

Then he slips out of the booth (as much as a 7 foot tall man can), doing his best to follow Alis's scent.

If her scent is still evident, he should have no trouble tracking her down, but that's without knowing what all factors are in play.

If he catches up to her before she goes on, he'll mention the strangeness going on, but will want to try to stay out of sight. Once she begins going down the aisle, Mal will try to remain towards the back of the crowd, not getting in the way, though he'll try to keep an open path between himself and her should things go badly.