Dot
"My Dear Capricia, There is a matter of great import and I require your attendance at a meeting among some of my other agents. Not only will you be serving my interests, but this may also provide in-roads to your own interests. I expect you to meet me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
"Mr. Bimble Ficklebopper, I've heard you had interest in attending the upcoming Gala. I actually have an opportunity that will serve both of our interests. I need some assistance with a few tasks at the Gala and in exchange I can ensure you can gain admittance to the event. Furthermore, it is my hope that with your aid, we might be able to assist in bringing about the necessary change needed to drag Taldor from the continued and extended decay that it has faced for so long. I hope you can meet with me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
"Mr. Marcus Beto, I've heard you are a renowned chef and are familiar with many of the social circles in Taldor. I applaud you for your perseverance in raising your station even though you haven't had the opportunity that is so lavishly given to the lucky few born to nobility. It is my hope that you might consider assisting me in working toward bringing change to Taldor. I need some assistance with a few tasks at the Gala and in exchange I can ensure you can gain admittance to the event. This would be a wonderful opportunity, not only to assist me in bring about a brighter future for all of Taldor, but to give you the opportunity to make contacts and meet influential parties that could be of use to you in the future. I hope you can meet with me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
"Ms. Thorn, I've heard of your families recent announcement over your marriage. I'm not sure whether congratulations are in order or perhaps sympathies? I hear that you cherish your freedom and may need assistance in working around this prearranged marriage. I believe I can help, I need some assistance with a few tasks at the Gala and in exchange I can ensure you can gain admittance to the event. This would be a wonderful opportunity, not only to assist me in bring about a brighter future for all women of Taldor, but to give you the opportunity to make contacts and meet influential parties that could be of use to you in your endeavors. I hope you can meet with me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
"Ms. Sara Nole, I've heard of your gatherings to discuss renovating neighborhoods and providing education to the poorer communities. I couldn't agree more and it is my hope that you might consider assisting me in working to bring change in Taldor for a brighter future for us all. I need some assistance with a few tasks at the Gala and in exchange I can ensure you can gain admittance to the event. This would be a wonderful opportunity, not only to assist me in bring about a better Taldor, but to give you the opportunity to make contacts and meet influential parties that could be of use to you in the future. I hope you can meet with me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
"Mr. Karthis, I hear congratulations are in order for your recent ascent as a true servant of Iomedea. Though it appears your family was not as accepting of your choice to put your faith above your family name. I applaud you for your conviction and feel that an honorable man such as your self may have interest is bringing Taldor back to its former glory. The Inheritor was once a herald of Aroden and Taldor was the gem of the Inner Sea before the dark days of Aroden's demise. I feel we are on the precipice of a important moment in Taldor's future and the guidance of one of the Inheritor's faithful could help sway the nation toward the righteous path. As such, I have an opportunity for you to not only assist me in bringing about a better Taldor, but to give you the opportunity to make contacts and meet influential parties that could be of use to you in the future. I need some assistance with a few tasks at the Gala and in exchange I can ensure you can gain admittance to the event. I hope you can meet with me at the designated location promptly at 8:00pm this Oathday."
Included is a map that shows the location of a cafe several blocks from the senate building.
Oppara is Taldor's thriving capital—a shining monument to the grandeur and majesty once common to the entire Taldan empire. Seated on the black cliffs of the River Porthmos in Opparos Prefecture, Oppara bears all the gravitas and extravagance that 6,000 years of history have conferred upon it. The roofs and domes of Oppara were once plated with gold, earning it the nickname "the Gilded City," and though past rulers stripped the gold away long ago to pay for the empire's follies, the wealth and decadence of Taldor's capital keep the spirit of that name alive.
Oppara serves as Taldor's primary trade center, with traffic coming both from Taldor's interior via the River Porthmos and from the steady stream of international vessels sailing in from the Inner Sea. It is also the home of Taldor's government, hosting both the Imperial Palace of the grand prince and the polished marble halls of the senate. As the economic and political hub of Taldor, Oppara is the beating heart of the empire and the center of Taldan culture. Twin harbors provide goods to the city’s thriving marketplaces and restaurants, and they're often so crammed with ships that the river cannot be seen. Public fountains and marble statues can be found at many major crossroads and plazas. Columned villas and grandiose temples from every age of Taldor's history line the streets, and even the humbler merchant districts are holdovers from an unparalleled age of glory. Most of Oppara's buildings are made of carved stone, and the roads are paved with either intricate mosaics or well-fitted cobblestones. Much of the city's advanced public works have withstood the test of time, including its labyrinthine sewer system and the network of stone gutters that keep the streets clear of summer rain. The Grand Bridge of the Empire, emerging from the southeastern shore of the city's heart to cross the massive Porthmos, remains one of the most ambitious and impressive engineering marvels in the Inner Sea. Two magically animated lion sculptures stand sentinel atop Oppara's main gate, offering a glimpse into the greatness that currently lies dormant within the empire. At night, the city is lit with tens of thousands of lanterns, causing it to shine like a beacon in the darkness.
Every year, the empire of Taldor celebrates the Grand Day of Exaltation. On this prestigious day, the Grand Prince is empowered to elevate a commoner to the ranks of nobility. The event itself is the embodiment of formality, with the elevated commoner selected months or years in advance. What makes the day truly special is that the preceding week is a holiday throughout the empire. Nobles, senators, and hopeful petitioners fill the capital city of Oppara for galas, performances, and parades. To the nobility, the week before the Grand Day of Exaltation is a time to conduct important business deals, issue noble proclamations, and hold private parties. With so many prominent politicians arriving from across the empire, the Taldan senate uses Exaltation Week to vote on matters of nationwide importance.
Visitors flock to Oppara in the days leading up to the Grand Day of Exaltation. The populace of the city doubles during this time, making Oppara larger than any other city in the Inner Sea region, save Absalom. The self-importance of the already prideful Taldan people swells in equal measure. Street vendors sell traditional Taldan foods—anchovy skewers, anglebobs, canal crossings, clamguards, jubilee pie, honeyflake, long wine, yonder tarts, and more—including regional delicacies from separated provinces such as Andoran mince and Chelish raven cake. Family banners and provincial flags drape the sides of most buildings, with merchants hawking heraldry ranging from replica banners of the old Armies of Exploration to wooden swords and handheld Taldan flags for children. Taverns offer themed drink and food, with varying bars adopting well-known nobles from the long history of the empire as their mascot or self-declared patron.
Alongside all the pomp and circumstance filling Oppara is a noteworthy moment in history: the imperial senate is poised to hold a historic vote to end primogeniture. The potential end of the millennia-standing law of succession is the talk of the town. Streets and taverns are abuzz with conversations; some wish to see the law thrown down to pave a way for Princess Eutropia to ascend to the throne, while hardliners (especially elder nobles) believe the vote to be another wound in the great history of the empire, allowing not only the rabble-rousing Eutropia to inherit family power, but every ill-deserving woman. Regardless of the outcome, both sides of the debate agree that life will go on, and despite the serious ramifications of primogeniture's potential end, the streets of Oppara hold no signs of unrest during the jubilant celebrations of the Grand Day of Exaltation.
Each of you has another reason to be excited for the Grand Day of Exaltation. You have each been contacted by Lady Martella Lotheed. She has contacted you to serve as her agents at the Grand Day of Exaltation Gala at the senate building. Martella has asked that each of you meet with her the evening before the Exaltation Gala to familiarize yourselves with your fellow agents, get details on the missions and to ask any questions you may have. The meetup is to take place at a small cafe several blocks from the senate building.
Celad looks at the note in his hands, and the map that came with it, his expression thoughtful. We seem to want the same things. But, is she trying to use my status as a paladin? Even if she is, so long as I follow where Iomedae leads, does it matter? We are supposed to be beacons of hope, and lights in the darkness. Hm. I will go, and at least hear her out.
Celad makes his way to the meeting at the requested time, in full arms and armor, his holy symbol on display. He smiles and greets people along the way. Arriving at the cafe, he enters, looking around for Lady Lotheed.
"Is this real?" the young brunette asked herself, after reading the letter for the tenth time this morning alone. It was currently beside her work area, as she worked the dough with her fists. "Hopefully if it is real, you don't have to present it like an invitation." Tosh, one of her half-sibs, laughed, noting the flecks of flour dotting the expensive parchment. Sara groaned and agreed, after flinging a bit of unused dough at the perceptive young woman.
"Can you cover for me in the morning?" baker's hours are very very early, so meeting at 8 would mean a unreasonable bad morning. Luckily Tosh owed her, the curvy blonde had several late evenings of her own recently, just for very different reasons.
No matter what Sara knows or has wrong, she will attend. The potential is just too great. Standing in front of the mirror, wearing her best dress, Sara sighs. It is pretty enough for her station, and also way below anything a noblewoman would wipe her bottom with. No matter, it is all she had. And in the end how one looks shouldn't judge ones true worth... she tells herself.
Then off to a café.
Rossana almost skipped as she went down the paved road through the crowd. She had always enjoyed the sights and sounds that the Exaltation brought. Merchants from all over, meats of all variety, and plenty of new people to pull a prank on. It was her favorite of celebrations.
But today, Rossana was also excited to finally begin to work on her small breakthrough. She had been doing her best at trying to make connections recently, but had feared it wouldn't be enough. But if she could get in to the Gala, well, that would be the perfect chance.
She had spent enough time messing around. Now it was finally time to act. With the cafe coming into sight, Rossana slipped into a small alleyway, hiding her head for a moment under her fashionable coat before changing her features. Her face changed slightly to show an older woman, while both of her distinct features faded away to leave her more human. Having the advantage of surprise wouldn't hurt, and she wanted to make sure she shook off any of her father's servants that might be following her. With her disguise ready, Rossana moved on down the street and entered the cafe.
Marcus walked through the streets, looking for the cafe, his mind racing with thoughts - so much so that he was barely looking where he was going. A compulsion to act had filled his mind for weeks now, and as his moment approached, he was still unsure how far he was willing to go to make a change. Not noticing a low-hanging awning (low-hanging for someone of his height at least), Marcus slammed his head into the overhang and swore audibly.
The unexpected obstacle seemed to have cleared his head, though, and when he walked into the cafe, he was ready to make a good impression on his future employer. Rather than order a drink, he looked around for a corner table where he could keep a good view on the whole cafe and sat down.
The tall, red-haired swordswoman strolled through Oppara, wondering at its oxymoronic opulence tinged with inescapable decay. It made her hometown of Little Oppara in the Shackles look like the pale copy it was, and yet...Little Oppara was more real, more thriving, at least in her eyes.
The real deal city had its redeeming qualities, however: the weather was much cooler than the tropics, and the bugs were less plentiful and much, much smaller. Indentured as she was to the Lady Martella Lotheed, Capricia knew she needed to learn all she could of her ancestors' fatherland, the better to survive, and perhaps, to take revenge on her enemies.
On your way to the meetup, you pass by a couple of nobles and you overhear one of the woman, in an irritated voice note "People claim Duke Centimus is a gentleman, but he gave me the dirtiest look for asking about his accident." The other people seem appaled or are good at faking it and they continue to gossip about the Duke as they walk away.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige. Martella is the black sheep of her family, being a result of an extramarital dalliance with a Qadiran diplomat. She lacks her family’s gift for magic as well, adding to their resentment.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor. Grand Prince Stavian III has no male heir, and he has refused to have any further children since the tragic death of his only son, Carrius, in a riding accident 20 years ago. With the emperor getting on in years, some people worry how this will affect succession.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility. Because people travel from all over the empire to witness the exaltation, many balls and political events take place in the preceding week, and the senate usually votes on matters of national importance immediately beforehand. This year’s noble-to-be is a wide-eyed weaver from the village of Breezy Creek, whose beautiful tapestries have adorned the royal palace and many other royal homes for a decade.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor. Grand Prince Stavian III has no male heir, and he has refused to have any further children since the tragic death of his only son, Carrius, in a riding accident 20 years ago. With the emperor getting on in years, some people worry how this will affect succession. The emperor has made no secret of his disdain for Princess Eutropia’s social crusades, especially her efforts to overturn primogeniture so she can inherit the throne, but he has been uncharacteristically quiet about it this past year. Rumors abound that his health is slipping and he has accepted her efforts.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige. Martella is the black sheep of her family, being a result of an extramarital dalliance with a Qadiran diplomat. She lacks her family’s gift for magic as well, adding to their resentment. Despite her family’s disdain, Martella still commands some wealth and has extensive contacts, having attended the Sinora Academia, Taldor’s most exclusive girls’ school.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets. Eutropia is a social reformer, eager to establish schools and other public resources for the poor, and remove political or family restrictions for women and various minorities. Rumors have circulated for a decade that her ultimate goal is to overturn primogeniture, Taldor’s ancient law, stating that only male heirs may inherit the Lion Throne and become the first empress of Taldor. The princess’s reputation for “fighting in the streets” largely hails from her skill as a fencer, a sport she excelled at during her schooling at the Sinora Academia. Many times in her twenties she matched blades with chauvinistic politicians who would otherwise refuse to let her speak or act within political circles, and those early public duels helped her win unexpected support for her later social reforms as well as a reputation as an impolite, unladylike brute.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility. Because people travel from all over the empire to witness the exaltation, many balls and political events take place in the preceding week, and the senate usually votes on matters of national importance immediately beforehand. This year’s noble-to-be is a wide-eyed weaver from the village of Breezy Creek, whose beautiful tapestries have adorned the royal palace and many other royal homes for a decade.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor. Grand Prince Stavian III has no male heir, and he has refused to have any further children since the tragic death of his only son, Carrius, in a riding accident 20 years ago. With the emperor getting on in years, some people worry how this will affect succession. The emperor has made no secret of his disdain for Princess Eutropia’s social crusades, especially her efforts to overturn primogeniture so she can inherit the throne, but he has been uncharacteristically quiet about it this past year. Rumors abound that his health is slipping and he has accepted her efforts.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige. Martella is the black sheep of her family, being a result of an extramarital dalliance with a Qadiran diplomat. She lacks her family’s gift for magic as well, adding to their resentment.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets. Eutropia is a social reformer, eager to establish schools and other public resources for the poor, and remove political or family restrictions for women and various minorities. Rumors have circulated for a decade that her ultimate goal is to overturn primogeniture, Taldor’s ancient law, stating that only male heirs may inherit the Lion Throne and become the first empress of Taldor. The princess’s reputation for “fighting in the streets” largely hails from her skill as a fencer, a sport she excelled at during her schooling at the Sinora Academia. Many times in her twenties she matched blades with chauvinistic politicians who would otherwise refuse to let her speak or act within political circles, and those early public duels helped her win unexpected support for her later social reforms as well as a reputation as an impolite, unladylike brute.
As you step into the alley a pair of nobles walk by you overhear one mention "I hear tell the emperor’s going to exalt another of his Ulfen bodyguards like he did for Baron Vinmark. Last thing we need is another barbarian lording it over us." The other man nods his agreement and they continue their discussion as they walk on.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige. Martella is the black sheep of her family, being a result of an extramarital dalliance with a Qadiran diplomat. She lacks her family’s gift for magic as well, adding to their resentment. Despite her family’s disdain, Martella still commands some wealth and has extensive contacts, having attended the Sinora Academia, Taldor’s most exclusive girls’ school.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets. Eutropia is a social reformer, eager to establish schools and other public resources for the poor, and remove political or family restrictions for women and various minorities. Rumors have circulated for a decade that her ultimate goal is to overturn primogeniture, Taldor’s ancient law, stating that only male heirs may inherit the Lion Throne and become the first empress of Taldor. The princess’s reputation for “fighting in the streets” largely hails from her skill as a fencer, a sport she excelled at during her schooling at the Sinora Academia. Many times in her twenties she matched blades with chauvinistic politicians who would otherwise refuse to let her speak or act within political circles, and those early public duels helped her win unexpected support for her later social reforms as well as a reputation as an impolite, unladylike brute.
As you are walking, focuing on your own thoughts you almost bump into a noble woman chatting with her friends, you avoid her at the last minute as she brings your attention to the now when she loudly complains to her friends "Ugh, Eutropia brought that disgusting mutt of hers to the Elbistan Tournament last spring, and the wretched beast drooled on the silk table dressings. She’d never get away with such impropriety if her father weren’t pulling strings to protect her." The other women look shocked or nod in agreement as they walk off and continue their conversation, paying you no mind.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility. Because people travel from all over the empire to witness the exaltation, many balls and political events take place in the preceding week, and the senate usually votes on matters of national importance immediately beforehand. This year’s noble-to-be is a wide-eyed weaver from the village of Breezy Creek, whose beautiful tapestries have adorned the royal palace and many other royal homes for a decade.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige. Martella is the black sheep of her family, being a result of an extramarital dalliance with a Qadiran diplomat. She lacks her family’s gift for magic as well, adding to their resentment. Despite her family’s disdain, Martella still commands some wealth and has extensive contacts, having attended the Sinora Academia, Taldor’s most exclusive girls’ school.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets.
You know the Grand Day of Exaltation is the one day every year when the emperor can elevate a commoner of unusual skill or service to the ranks of nobility. Because people travel from all over the empire to witness the exaltation, many balls and political events take place in the preceding week, and the senate usually votes on matters of national importance immediately beforehand. This year’s noble-to-be is a wide-eyed weaver from the village of Breezy Creek, whose beautiful tapestries have adorned the royal palace and many other royal homes for a decade.
You also know Grand Prince Stavian III is the emperor of Taldor. Grand Prince Stavian III has no male heir, and he has refused to have any further children since the tragic death of his only son, Carrius, in a riding accident 20 years ago. With the emperor getting on in years, some people worry how this will affect succession. The emperor has made no secret of his disdain for Princess Eutropia’s social crusades, especially her efforts to overturn primogeniture so she can inherit the throne, but he has been uncharacteristically quiet about it this past year. Rumors abound that his health is slipping and he has accepted her efforts.
You know that the wealthy Lotheed family has been a strong supporter of the Stavians for almost 100 years. They have a long family tradition of arcane magic, adding to their wealth and prestige.
You also know Princess Eutropia is the adult daughter of Grand Prince Stavian III and has a scandalous reputation for making trouble and fighting in the streets. Eutropia is a social reformer, eager to establish schools and other public resources for the poor, and remove political or family restrictions for women and various minorities. Rumors have circulated for a decade that her ultimate goal is to overturn primogeniture, Taldor’s ancient law, stating that only male heirs may inherit the Lion Throne and become the first empress of Taldor. The princess’s reputation for “fighting in the streets” largely hails from her skill as a fencer, a sport she excelled at during her schooling at the Sinora Academia. Many times in her twenties she matched blades with chauvinistic politicians who would otherwise refuse to let her speak or act within political circles, and those early public duels helped her win unexpected support for her later social reforms as well as a reputation as an impolite, unladylike brute.
Bimble is the first to arrive a little before 8:00. He finds Lady Lotheed waiting and no one else in the establishment except for a young woman behind the counter, who you surmise is the proprietor. Lady Lotheed smiles as she sees Bimble and waves him over to take a seat "I'm glad you could make it. We are still waiting on some others so feel free to order while we wait." Not long after, the rest of you filter in. Long, golden beams of the setting sun dance through the cafe’s smoky interior, highlighting breads, cheeses, and wine bottles behind the only counter. Martella sips casually from a steaming mug while a gnome sits near her drinking coffee. A hand-sized brass cricket buzzes quietly on the tabletop beside her.
As you enter she greets you individually. Even though you may have never met her, she seems to know you. She offers you each a seat "I’m so pleased you could join me this evening,” she begins. “Please order whatever you like on me; the fig jam is particularly lovely here. And feel free to speak candidly. I’ve taken measures to ensure our privacy.”
She gives you a moment to take a seat and place your orders before setting her mug down and standing to do a slight curtsy to you all "I am Martella Lotheed. Many of you may not know me, but I've all asked you here tonight to be of assistance, but more than that, to help Taldor as a whole. Before we get too deep into things, please introduce yourselves so that we can all become the greatest of friends."
Celad offers a polite nod to Martella in return. "I am Celad, a paladin in service to Iomedae. I am also a member of House Karthis, though I currently have little to do with them since I refused to act as a show pony on their behalf."
He looks at Martella, then around at the others. "Lady Martella, you are well met, as are all of you. I am prepared to listen to what you have to say, and to help if I can, so long as it is understood that my duty is first and foremost to the Inheritor, always." Upon saying this, he nods again, and takes a seat in a position where he can see the door and as much of the room as possible.
After taking a moment to order a coffee as well, Marcus sits down (though he still towers over most of the others at the table).
"Glad to be here, Lady Lotheed," he says in the kindest voice he can muster.
Black sheep of her family, but is she a black sheep among the nobles? Her family has supported the Stavians for years, and that's gotten us nowhere. Only time will tell though - only time will tell.
Addressing the rest of the group, Marcus continues.
"I am Marcus Beto, a chef of some renoun here in Oppara. I'm glad to meet you all."
Rossana eases the door close behind her fully before letting her form return to normal now that she was off the street. Taking note that Lady Lotheed is the only one of the group that she recognizes, Rossana waits her turn while taking Lady Lotheed on her offer and ordering a few small meats to go with the bread and jam.
Rossana's ears perk up when she realizes her turn has come, and she stands and gives a curtsy. "I am Lady Rossana of House Thorn. It is a pleasure to meet you all," she says with a large smile. Reseating herself at the table, Rossana returns to snacking on her finger meats.
"My name is Capricia Belacrest," a lanky yet fit rehead says with the faintest of curtsies to all. "I am trained in the art of rondelero swordplay and am in service to Lady Martella."
Capricia's eyes stare daggers at Martella when she suggests that everyone present "can all become the greatest of friends." It's pretty clear Capricia harbors some sort of hatred or at least resentment toward Lady Martella or the Lotheed family.
Sara is last. Not by choice, just by circumstance. She had arrived last, not being familiar with this area of the city as much as some of the others might be. She assumed there was some etiquette to the order of introductions, rank, amount of armor, arrival time, Something! By the time she realized there was absolutely none, she sighed and was last.
On her turn she rises. Though her stomach is a bundle of over caffeinated butterflies, she manages to look at each of them (like proper public speaking requires) as she tells them, "I am Sara Nole, a simple baker. Simple, but I do have high hopes for this city, its people, and the ideals it should hold as truths." She nods with a welcoming smile, sits back down, smoothing her skirts as she does.
A paladin, a writer, a noblewoman, a swordswoman, and a famous cook (even a beater of bread has heard of Marcus Beto), and her. What in the world would they be doing together, she wonders... silently of course as she is interested in hearing.
Martella smiles as she listens to the various introductions, until she notices Capricia starring daggers at her and just shakes her head "Well now that we can all call ourselves friends, as I mentioned in my letter there is a potential for great change in Taldor. Change that I feel will benefit not only each of you, but the entire empire. However, I prefer to remove as much of Desna's influence from the equation and work toward ensuring that change can arrive."
She looks you each in the eye gauging your interest before continuing "As luck would have it, I've obtained a means of access to the Exaltation Gala. As you may know, this is the social event of the year. However, more importantly, the senate will be voting on the future of primogeniture. I have some tasks that I am hoping you all will be able to assist me with to ensure that vote passes."
From a pouch at her waist she pulls out some badges, those of you familiar with the senate at all note they are senatorial aid badges. "Assuming you are interested in serving as my agents during the Gala you will each receive one of these badges. They will grant you entry to the event. Of course, I trust your activities won’t occupy your entire evening, so by all means, enjoy the party, make friends, or use this as an opportunity to dig up dirt on your enemies. This is an excellent opportunity for you to begin your own political ambitions or find support for the causes you hold dear."
Setting the badges down she takes a sip from her mug before she continues "As I'm sure the very next questions will be "What are these tasks?" Let me lay them out for you."
Taking some time she describes the various things she would like assistance with.
After she describes the various things she needs assistance with she finishes by saying. "“Overall, tomorrow night promises to be a historic evening, but an evening of work nonetheless. And in the sort of work you’re embarking upon, the line that divides success and failure is drawn by the people you know. I’m counting on you to support one another to ensure success and discretion. If you need assistance, kindly ask for it. If your assistance is required, give it. And if I’m to be blunt, I would like just once in my adult life to simply enjoy a gala I attend, rather than scamper about with clandestine busywork. Of course, I'm not expecting you to just help me out of the kindness of your heart. I will compensate you each 150 gold lions if you complete your tasks, to be paid several days after the gala. If you all complete your work without need of me to clean anything up, I will happily double my promised fee."
She looks at you each expectantly and adds one last thing "Additionally, I will provide you each with enough gold to purchase a proper courtier's outfit so you fit in."
Sara listens quietly through the long discussion of activities the Lady needs accomplished at the Gala. All her life she has heard about this event as well of the outrageous stories about her homeland's political maneuvers. And now she is going to be part of that. All in the name of making things better for her fellow low borns, of course.
She asks little questions here and there, one to appear attentive, and two for simple clarity. All the duties sound reasonable, other than stealing artifacts in view of everyone else. Looking at her fellow aides, she wonders which one of them has been recruited for that task.
"Thank you for the opportunity, Lady Martella.” Sara says “I would love to spend the event discussing the changes our system desperately needs with the any senator that would actually listen, but I understand. Each of us needs to start somewhere. I will help with any of the tasks I am able to.”
Sighing she'll also except the funds to buy a new dress. “Do you have a suggestion on where to buy an acceptable gown in such short notice?”
Celad watched Lady Martella as she spoke, focusing his will to determine evil intent. When she finished speaking, he stood.
"Lady Martella, I would be glad to lend my aid to a noble cause, for the betterment of our home. That said, I freely admit that I have no skill at subterfuge or subtlety, and no regrets about that fact. I am a soldier, in service to Iomedae. I will not take pains to conceal that fact, or do anything else to stain my honor, or Hers. How would you bid me help?" he asked, his tone and expression respectful.
"If you want help with your dress, I can help tailor it," Rossana speaks up. "I make most of my clothing. I know how to add all the right flairs it needs to stand to attention."
"I'm also pretty good at buttering others up and staying hidden. Plus, I can take anyone's appearance at will, outside of a few other tricks. Comes in handy a lot," and with this statement, Rossana changes her appearance to match Lady Lotheed's for a few seconds before reverting to her own features.
"That would be much appreciated." Sara responds with a relieved smile at Rossana's offer. The noblewoman would know what would be in season, and tailoring her own dress! Sara keeps her surprise moderately under control at that. A noblewoman who hems her own garments? Odd that she finds that more surprising than the woman morphing in front of her eyes.
"Thank you for the opportunity, Lady Lotheed, I would be glad to assist. I do hope," he says in as sweet and humble voice as he can muster, "that the hard work of winning the vote on primogeniture will lead to a more welcoming and hospitable nation for all Taldor's citizens, even those outside the nobility." Marcus smiles at Martella, hoping that his comment wasn't out of place.
I won't hold out too much hope for Eutropia. It's not as if her family has done much for the common folk; quite the opposite. But this is an opportunity I can't afford to miss.
Capricia listens to Lady Martella's spiel quietly and fairly emotionlessly, interjecting that she's had some experience creating false documents in her recent past.
"What of weapons in this gala?" she asks Lady Lotheed a bit testily. "I'd feel naked without my falcata...even while wearing the latest frilly Taldan finery."
On the subject of finery...Capricia quietly chats with Sara and Rossana about possibly helping her pick out an acceptable outfit for the gala. She shows none of the hostility toward them that she may have been caught showing toward Martella.
Capricia tenses, grits her teeth, and balls her fists when the name High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus is mentioned.
Clearly, this young spitfire isn't very good at hiding her emotions...and doesn't like the High Strategos.
"Can anyone manage to slip the items without being noticed, though?" Rossana asks. "That'll probably be he hardest task. If we could divert everyone away, I might be able to take and go while changing my appearance, but it would be hard with eyes watching."
Lady Lotheed waits patiently as you discuss, sipping from her mug. At one point she picks up the hand-sized brass cricket beside her and winds the gears before setting it back down. As questions arise she addresses them one by one. When Sara inquires about shops Martella nods "Yes, A friend of mine, Julliana Varst, runs Royal Threads. I know she will have some things in stock and I can be sure to let her know to expect you."
When Capricia inquires about weapons Martella replies "Of course there are rules, but your blade should be ok. However, I suppose, it would be worth you knowing what all the rules of the senate are." She takes some time to explain the various rules of the senate.
After laying out the rules she adds "Anyone breaking any of these rules will be quietly escorted outside by the guards. Obviously, that would complicate matters for you as gaining re-entry could become difficult. So please keep the rules in mind as you prepare for the evening."
Martella grins at Bimble's concern "I imagine your walking stick should be fine." To his next question she shakes her head "No, there are no active measures, but yes the guards and staff would likely be on the lookout for casting, especially anything that had a readily visible effect."
Sara thanks the noblewomen for their suggestions, and decides to visit Madam Varst as soon as the meeting is over. Though glancing out into the night, she thinks it is unlikely they will be open. Oh and she hopes she can get someone to cover for her tomorrow night as well. She will not miss this event even if it costs her her father's displeasure, or worse her job. The opportunity is too great.
Bimble's questions bring her back out of her fretting. The names... they do sound familiar?
"It might depend on the individual. Some won't speak to those who are not of nice enough dress," Rossana answers. "Others might turn their nose up either way."
As Rossana finishes her plate, she pushes thoughts of their apparel aside for the moment to tries and recall what she knew of all these big wigs.
If the PCs know which NPCs they need to influence in advance, they can seek out information to assist them in doing so ahead of time, potentially gaining information from the social stat block before the encounter. To represent the results of such preparations, each PC can attempt one Knowledge-based discovery check in advance with a – 5 penalty. The GM can allow other discovery skills to work, but Sense Motive should never work in advance unless the PC is actively stalking the NPC, which might require additional Disguise or Stealth checks and could lead to negative consequences. If the PCs attempt a discovery check against a particularly prominent NPC in advance, the PCs can attempt the Knowledge check to receive a +4 on the discovery check in advance, as well (see Discovery Checks).
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Thinking through the names, Marcus was sure he had served some of them before. But what had he heard about them?
Celad thought about the names, to see if any of them seemed familiar.
Sara Success: Pace, Okerra, Pythareus
Rossana Success: Pythareus
Bimble Success: Pace, Okerra, Pythareus
Marcus Success: Centimus, Pace, Okerra
Celad Success: Centimus, Pythareus
General Okerra Info: A celebrity in the tournament circuit and a kind but stern leader, Baron Nicolaus Okerra is considered one of Taldor’s chief defenders of law and order. He has little time for pomp and circumstance, secluding himself in the noble courts of the senate building to debate with aspiring nobles on the importance of law. His charming demeanor is only somewhat mitigated by his staunch devotion to order, even when he defends the shadier aspects of a lawful society.
General Pace Info: Countess Pace is agreeable and endearing to those she considers useful or empowering, but entirely dismissive of “useless people.” Outwardly a firm ally of Princess Eutropia and the end of primogeniture, Countess Pace sycophantically trails political power like a wolf chases prey, allying herself with whoever offers her an advantage. She is likely to betray her allies should things turn against her.
General Centimus Info: Duke Centimus lost the use of his legs in a riding accident, and while many of his contemporaries believe this makes him a less capable leader, Leonard has stubbornly refused to hire a divine spellcaster to heal the damage. The duke has a keen interest in the world beyond Taldor, and still hopes to visit Goka, where his great-grandfather originally hailed from.
General Pythareus Info: The high strategos is direct and confident, cutting to the heart of any topic. He despises politics, preferring to focus on matters of military and strategic concern. His presence at the Gala is a formality; Maxillar would much rather be inspecting troops or training on horseback.
Martella smirks when Bimble inquires about the various targets "Indeed, there is plenty I can tell you. However, I'm much more interested in seeing how you fair and would prefer to see what information you are able to gather yourselves." She continues "As to the outfit, it is a Gala. People will dress up for the evening and in my opinion it is better to dress above your station when hobnobbing at such an event."
Thinking a moment she shrugs and then looks to each of you "I believe I've related all the important information to you that I have. Do you have any other questions? If not, I propose you meet back here tomorrow before the Gala. I will provide some loaner jewelry if any of you would like to use it. We likely won't meet again until you find your way into the Gala."
Rossana stretches a bit as she feels the conversation begin to end. She had only been able to recall the fact that General Maxillar was only attending as a formality, but that was more than nothing. Maybe the others had bits of insight on their other targets.
"That may be all. Thank you for the opportunity, Madam Martella," Rossana says, bobbing her head in appreciation.
"Thank you Lady Lotheed, for this opportunity and your trust." Sara bows her head as she speaks, doing her best to keep the extreme enthusiasm out of her voice. Humble deference, her father always told her, is the best way to appease the nobility, though he rarely followed his own advice.
Celad gives a polite nod to Lady Martella. "I will see you at the Gala, Lady Martella." He looks to the others. "Fare you all well. If I can be of any assistance, do let me know."
Marcus nods at the gnome. "As uncomfortable as I am with dressing as a noble, I think you might be right."
Capricia does a mental inventory of her gear and decides that sneaking a couple of vials of alchemist's fire under her skirt might be pushing it. She asks Lady Lotheed if it's possible the noblewoman could sneak some additional gear into the gala in the days before the event.
"Okay." Sara grudgingly agrees with Bimble. All the nobles she's had the opportunity to witness do behave differently the moment they believed you were not a member of their rank. "Then I believe a trip to the Royal Threads will be a necessity tonight, to have time for the alternations that Lady Thron are suggesting." she rises, gives a brief curtsy to their benefactor. "Should we continue our discussion of strategy and apparel on the way?"
"Then let us be off. I already have the right outfits in mind for each of you," Rossana says, giving a curtsy to Lady Lotheed.
Seeing you all conversing and that no one had any particular questions Martella interjects "Before you depart I did want to say, I know some of you looked into me before our little meetup. I applaud your initiative and resourcefulness. As such, I have a little gift that may be of use in your goals."
She waves the owner over. The young woman brings a pouch stuffed with some various items. Inside are two vials of liquid blade, eight smoke pellets, a single dose of soul stimulant, and two vials of dust of illusion.
After receiving your gift Martella stands and does a slight curtsy "I hope you enjoy your evenings and I look forward to seeing you all again tomorrow at the Gala! Please spend the day tomorrow preparing as you see fit." Unless otherwise stopped she picks up her brass cricket, putting it securely in one of her pockets, then heads out of the cafe leaving you to enjoy your food and drink.
Rossana looks at the items curiously, not fully sure what a few were for, but doesn't see anything too helpful among them and lets the others take them.
"Now, the current trend in colors is dark reds, though a few of the more daring ladies have started in with a scheme color of dark greens to stand out with," Rossana begins as they head out. "The Royal Threads should have a nice selection of more basic outfits along with the materials I'll need to alter them tomorrow, and we can even get all your measurements while we're there. We'll need to meet up a little earlier at the cafe so you can all change into your new outfits.
"Are there any special alterations or requests you'll need?" Rossana asks in particular. "I am used to having to alter things for that very reason." With that statement, she gestures to the bottom of her long dress where it begins to shift, and from under the hem, her perhaps previously unnoticed wolf-like tail swishes more fully into view. "Fashion tends to be more human-focused here in Oppara."
Sensing a bit a disappointment and concern on Sara's face, Marcus walks over to her as they leave.
"I think we are both skilled enough to convince those in the kitchens that we have a right to visit; in face, some of them might even know one of us. But if you'd prefer to keep a low profile, I'm happy to join you; I'd certainly be more in my element without the formal garb."