Rossana tilts her head quizzically at Marcus's statment. "I go into our kitchen a lot and no one questions it," Rossana comments, before suddenly grinning and adding, "Though our head chef occasionally scolds me when I take a few too many snacks between meals."
"...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."
"Hmmm... tempting. But I think they are right. Dressing as we are would work better in the kitchens, but if we need to help with any of the other tasks, dressing like them..." she gestures, not unkindly, to the nobles of their party. "... would be advisable." she'll flash the famous chef a smile, Anyway, if we meet anyone we know they'll probably be more jealous then suspicious. Maybe at least..." one or two catty natties she knows would harp to the heavens to get her in trouble, no doubt.
"Lady Thorn, is it rude of me to inquire about the particulars of your um un-'human focused' nature?" Sara's voice is curious, but hesitant, not wanting to offend with her question, though she believes Rossana is open to the discussion.
The brunette baker with give a low curtsey to the departing gnome, after barely containing a loud laugh at his story, beaming her pleasure instead. Equality for all, not just all classes, but for all races, is a deep belief of hers. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Master Ficklebopper. Good night and sleep well."
Rossana hums to herself for a moment before answering Sara as she considers it. "I'm not really sure where it's from, but apparently we have some strange blood in our family somewhere and it happened to show in me. I like it, though. I have a nice, luxurious tail to keep me warm and my my fluffy ears never get cold. It is harder to keep a hood in place."
Celad quietly observes the others as they chat. He smiles at various comments here and there, but does not interject. After a time, he says, "Please pardon me. I need to see to my preparations. May the Inheritor guide and protect you all. If you have need of me before the event, I can be found via the Shrine of Iomedae." Offering a polite nod, he leaves.
Capricia stands and listens, ill-at-ease with small talk. She's grateful when Sara brings up Rossana's tail; she'd seen precious few tieflings (or whatever heritage Rossana claimed as hers)--or non-humans, for that matter--back in Little Oppara.
When someone more knowledgeable explains what the magical trinkets are, Capricia claims just a single smoke pellet.
"I intend on wearing my falcata and buckler openly at the gala," she informs the others, "even if I'm wearing some frilly things over my armor. I'll try to pass myself off as a bodyguard if someone calls me on it."
After taking time to prepare for the gala you all meet back at the cafe from last night. Once everyone arrives, you travel a few blocks towards the senate building. The Taldan senate is the seat of the senatorial branch of the Taldan government. The structure has existed in one form or another for millennia, though natural disasters, sabotage, and war have partially leveled it several times in the empire's grand history, leading to many large-scale repairs and revisions. The current senate building is a grandiose, T-shaped edifice constructed from white marble. Ostentatious columns carved with glorious scenes of the nation's history surround the building on all sides, while a pronounced flight of precisely 100 stairs ascends to the main entrance.
While senators may enter the senate building with a minimum of fuss, the process for aides, staff, and other attendees to enter is long and tedious. You get shuffled into an expansive line dedicated to senatorial aides, minor noble attendants, and various others deemed as "people useful to people of import." The line progresses ponderously, and it will likely take several hours to finally reach the front. During this time, dozens of overeager merchants attempt to sell a variety of wares to you and other staffers — mostly novelty Taldan flags and phony pieces of historical memorabilia. Several others in the line begin to bemoan the wait, touting their respective level of importance based on association with their affiliated nobles and senators.
The entire affair is quite tiresome.
You are halfway through the line when a dreary inspector approaches you. "You've been selected for a random inspection," the Vudrani woman says. "Follow me."
"I hope you do not expect us to lose our place in line for this. We have been waiting here for quite some time," Rossana states as she begins to step out of line.
Sara was in love with the dress. She has never worn anything like it, the expense alone might kill her from fright and delight. But enough of that, it is the ideals of freedom and equality that drove her to accept this job... really.
She is fretting with the dress as the inspector comes up. So much so she almost didn't catch his lie. Her fellow bastards delight in little white lies, a game they play. So she has gotten pretty good at noticing.
"Excuse me Miss, do you think this is really necessary? Looking at us would we be carrying anything..."
Sara stops mid sentence at the glare from the inspector. Sighing she starts to follow, but as the lady's back is turned she'll cast a quick message to inform the others that the random nature of the inspection is false. We were targetted.
Marcus tensed when he saw the face of the woman who pulled them from the line - he knew she had targeted them. His hand goes instinctively to the peace-bonded weapon at his side, but he tries to hide the motion and stand calmly, waiting to see what she might be doing.
The inspector glances back at Sara raising an eyebrow and letting out a sigh, "Come along now, I promise I won't bite. Please don't mar tonight by being stubborn. Tell a good old inspector like myself, the other lot heed my request, so why don't you? It's a big help to follow your friends lead" She seems to have a slight accent that oddly inflects some words.
Listening intently, Marcus thinks he's picked up the message and encourages the others to follow.
"Come on friends - the sooner we get through this, the faster we'll be back in line. I think it's in our best interest."
Although the Vudrani woman's initial targeting of the group goes over her head, once Sara magically messages her, Capricia catches Martella's name in the inspector's somewhat stilted words. She opts to play along silently.
Rossana frowns at the message she receives, wondering why they would be picked out specifically since there could be any number of reasons, but decides it is best to hurry it along.
Sara's eyes widden then she smiles equally wide. "Oh well, can't be helped." and then will relay to the others that this was set up by their employer it seems.
She keeps an impassive face as she escorts you to the base of the steps to the senate building. Once you are away from the crowd, she says softly, "The names Kathann Zalar. Not to worry, we have a common friend."
The actual inspection is a short affair, with Kathann quickly glancing over you to ensure there are no restricted items. Seemingly satisfied, she nods. "Alright. You're free to go on inside. Enjoy your evening." She ushers you forward ahead of the line. You ascend the hundred marble steps to the senate of the Taldan empire. Hundreds of nobles, senatorial aides, and visiting dignitaries mingle within and without the grand halls of the senate. You spend a few minutes getting the lay of the land.
This entry gallery celebrates Taldor's abundant military and political glories. Banners and trophies line the halls of the arcade, some displayed openly while others rest behind intricate glass cases, while armor stands and display cases present countless artifacts belonging to great heroes and soldiers. A score of Taldan Phalanx troops stand at attention, acting as both ceremonial honor guards for the senate and guides to some of the military assets on display.
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus is here, a muscular man in his early forties with weathered skin and close-cropped silver hair. He wears a blue-and-green tabard emblazoned with Taldor's official coat-of-arms. Also here are the five items donated by Earl Calhadion Vernisant for the night's ball--an elaborate silk fan, a brass spyglass, a leather journal, a fine buckler, and an ornate silver dagger.
A2. Courtyard
Breathtaking gardens surround the senate building. Catered patios segregated by short iron fences, coordinated military displays, and even a makeshift zoo of imported animals and magical beasts fill the few open spaces here, even including a small hive of bees busily pollinating the exotic flowers and making the honey used by the senate kitchens. Many of the senior nobles enjoy the breaks between ceremonies in this open space.
Lady Gloriana Morilla is here, sporting the finest of Absalom's fashion.
A3. Emperor's Hall
This gathering space before the senate chamber is set aside as the property of the emperor, and features countless statues and portraits of previous grand princes. While formally these chambers are for the use of the emperor, no grand prince has ever maintained an office within the senate building, and the space is understood to be public meeting rooms by silent agreement.
A4. Gallery
Note that this area doesn't appear on the map.
The second floor of the senate building acts as an observation deck to the events of the main floor, with offices for various senators lining the outer walls. This area of winding passageways is typically open to noble observers and senatorial aides. Much of the gallery is dedicated to entertaining the children of various nobles, with extravagant performances occurring throughout the upper balconies of the senate building.
Countess Abrielle Pace is here, dressed in ridiculously gauche noble clothing and fine jewelry. Also here is Wyssilka the Fantabulous, a halfling jester entertaining the children.
A5. Imperial Archives
The Imperial Archives could have been Golarion's greatest collection of transcribed knowledge, had any care been invested into its upkeep. Centuries of redirected funding and senate-sanctioned pruning of "sensitive information" has ruined the once immaculate reputation of the archives. This vast library now acts as a repository of haphazardly curated books, senate minutes, and genealogy records left open to the scrutiny of uncaring nobles. During the Grand Day of Exaltation, a host of rising aristocrats and aspiring courtiers here tout their knowledge of Taldan history.
Duke Leonard Centimus is here, a round-faced half-elf seated in an elaborate wheelchair.
A6. Senate Floor
Normally closed to non-senators, the vast, circular senate floor is open to special guests during the Grand Day of Exaltation, and myriad would-be nobles take the opportunity to duck in and live out a few moments of power fantasy, issuing mock legislation or engaging in lively debates.
Baron Nicolaus Okerra is here, a handsome man standing a head taller than the rest of the crowd. Also here is Kalbio of Breezy Creek, the intended recipient of the noble elevation from Grand Prince Stavian. He uncomfortably wears clothing of noble finery, constantly fidgeting with the cuffs or scratching at his neck.
A7. Servant Area
While several hidden corridors crisscross the senate building, allowing servants to come and go without disturbing the assembled politicians, this area houses most of the storerooms, workshops, and kitchens where the building's small army of servants bustle around to maintain the facade of opulence. Even this area, never meant for noble eyes, is of exceptional quality, though the gilt has worn thin on most corners, and here and there cheap repairs mar artistic furniture.
Each of the people of import are currently predisposed with sycophants and senatorial matters, considering the coming deliberation. You'll have to wait to try to influence them, but in the meantime, you can do your best to work the crowd.
Rossana settles a bit when she finds out the inspector's true intentions and makes a mental note to find out how that woman was passing her information mentally. It could prove to be a very useful talent.
As they enter the Senate Chambers, Rossana makes a quick check to make sure her clothing was completely in order and nods. Noticing the idle chatter all around, Rossana comments, "Looks like things are only just getting started. This will probably be a good time to get the lay of the area and find our people of import. Does everyone remember their target?"
After checking with the others, Rossana bids them adieu and moves off further into the building looking for Baron Okerra and perhaps a glimpse of Princess Eutropia. She pauses to pass courtesies with people she recognizes as she goes, familiar with the traditional atmosphere even if this was the largest event she had been to.
Upon reaching the Senate Floor, Rossana finally spots her man near the center conversing with a few of the upper nobles. Seeing him tied up for the near future, Rossana decides not to just stand by awkwardly and make the most of the situation by beginning short conversations with many of the nobles in the room, both to establish her presence in the room and get a good read of the mood. With a woman's heritage in the voting pool, she knows she'll need a good start if she doesn't want to be scorned right out of the chamber.
Almost immediately after walking into the gala, Marcus starts to feel overwhelmed by the crowd, and the sight of so many nobles doesn't help the matter. He reaches into his pocket and locates a small but sharp needle he had placed there. He moves it around in his hand a few times before taking a deep breath and letting the needle drop back into his pocket.
Marcus moves toward the Imperial Archives, hoping that he might avoid the crowds in a room some might consider less exciting, and keeps an eye out for the kitchens.
I'll have to find those sooner or later - I have a job to do.
When he arrives at the Archives, he tries to keep a low profile while scanning the books and listening to any conversations that might be happening.
"Sounds like a plan," Capricia says to Bimble. "I've never been in this place before, so I'd like to take a quick tour and get the lay of the land. I'll meet up with you here again later."
Later, while strolling through the gallery, Capricia spots the children being entertained. When a couple of young girls peer her way, the ex-pirate can't resist attempting a cartwheel for their amusement. Landing it gracefully, the leggy lass gives the kiddos a quick wink and their halfling caretaker a polite nod before sweeping out of the room to continue her tour.
Sara hurries toward the retreating Marcus, slipping her arm into his. "I believe we are supposed to be partnering up tonight." she flashes him a slightly overwhelmed smile of her own. Looking at all the nobles, she sighs, "I keep expecting one of them to point and yell IMPOSTER." giving a light nervous laugh.
Politely chatting until they approach the archives. “I'll check over here for the kitchens. Be back shortly.” in truth she witnessed two young men arguing a point back and forth in traditional debate style and was simply fascinated. It was on the senate floor, the ACTUAL SENTATE FLOOR.
Sara intended to just listen but one of them, a gangling young man with bright eyes and hope shining from his every pore was being crushed by an arrogant swill of a man oozing 'I am Better Than You Cause I was Born Me'.
On top of appearances, Gangling was right too!
While Arrogant Swill was sneering his latest point to his band of onlookers, Sara slipped up next to her hopeful champion. “Excuse me, if I could say that Waiting to point out that a rigid class structure is flawed because... ” expressing an enlightened and ethical argument () "... I mean letting him Think he was won until he has no way to retreat. And then hit him with that...” she shakes her head in wonder, beaming at the realization crosses his face and he matches her smile “Thank you, sir.” she gives him a deep curtsy, then sways away in a dress she is not quite used to, hoping he now destroys them Swill Man.
Celad, in noble dress, his armor gleaming and holy symbol prominently displayed, remained quiet as they proceed through the inspection and make their way inside. Once in, he nods to the others, and heads for the Arcade of Triumphs, nodding in greeting to the troopers as he passes.
He does not immediately approach the High Strategos, but instead spends some time looking at the various displays, making small talk with the guards or anyone else who seems interested. As he finally makes his way over near the High Strategos, he will attempt to catch the man's eye, and offer a polite salute, fist to heart. "Good evening, High Strategos Pythareus. I am Celad, a servant of the Inheritor. This is quite a display." He smiles and gestures at the exhibits.
As Marcus works to blend in, a guide leads a group of nobles over to an old blueprint of the senate building. Marcus makes his way over unnoticed to overhear the guide explain that the current structure was built atop the ruins of several older senate constructions. To keep the attention of the crowd while competing with Bimble, the guide goes on to describe how some levels of the old senate involved the intentional interment of workers — a grim reward from the nobles of the time.
Bimble's vested interest in Taldan history catches the attention of librarian Pabrus Telecoum, who offers Bimble a dog-eared and crumbling journal donated to the library but considered un-salvageable. The text itself is a somewhat compelling tale of a young wizard’s growth to womanhood and inheriting her family business in Cassomir 250 years ago. Though large portions are missing or damaged by water, tucked into the back of the book is a scroll containing six different spells.
Spending some time getting acquainted with the senate and sparking up conversations and debates you all feel that the evening is off to a good start. However, you start to notice the crowds moving toward the courtyard and you overhear others mention something about Princess Eutropia and a speech in the courtyard.
Though she feels out of her element, Capricia vows internally to see this mission through. Having gotten an overview of how best to pass through the crowded chambers and hallways, she seeks out Celad complimenting him on his arm and armor while quietly whispering tips and tactics for getting through crowds during his mission [ooc](see Capricia's spoiler a couple of posts up; you now get some bonuses).
Rather belatedly, Capricia's seen a flaw in her plans: In order to make a forged document, one needs pens, ink, and some parchment. She figures there must be plenty of these supplies in the senate building; the question is where can she acquire some without being spotted purloining them. She checks in with Bimble and mentions her need for the supplies before going off in search of them.
Rossana's ears twitch as she hears the crowd beginning to speak of Princess Eutropia, but also noticing the large number of people starting to migrate toward the courtyard. Trying to get to her at the moment would be rather difficult, but at the same time, Rossana notices that Baron Okerra has finally been left open.
Taking advantage of the opportunity, Rossana makes her move and approaches the Baron. "Good evening, Baron Okerra. It is such a pleasure to meet your acquaintance after hearing so much about you. I am Lady Rossana of House Thorn."
As they start their opening pleasantries, Rossana studies him, looking for the best way to go about speaking to him.
Feeling almost giddy after her indirect debate, she waves to Rossana who is still working the area then darts back to the Archives to find Marcus. Sara actually has a hard time finding him, but finally... "Are you ready to go destroy a probably amazing bottle of wine?" she whispers conspiratorially as she slips her arm in his again.
Finding the kitchens is easy enough, getting through the "Can we help you Miss" proves a bit more difficult. To a younger blonde maid laden down with a plate of yummy smelling stuffed- "Kiffles!" Sara exclaims in glee "How do you fold them so delicately? They break on me each and every time, and end up a proper mess."
"Miss?" the woman asked with amused confusion.
"Oh, forgive me, Dad would give me no end of grief at forgetting my manors." Sara gives a lovely curtesy, a proper one you'd give to a noble. "Sara Nole, apprentice bakery by day, fancy dress hobnobber by night" getting a giggle and a smile in return.
Marcus, unused to having to prove himself among his peers, mumbles through his introduction.
"M-M-Marcus Bet-to. I mean, my n-name is Marcus Beto, I'm a chef here in Oppara, and wanted to check out the kitchens in such a historic building." His face falls a bit after he speaks, disappointed in his first attempt at diplomacy.
As you both enter the servants area it is a chaotic scene as various staff rush to and fro tending to the evenings festivities. The atmosphere is something you are quite use to, just on a much larger scale than you have likely ever been involved in. Making your way into the kitchen proper you speak with one of the assistant chef's who at least acknowledges that she has heard of you, but seems particularly ready as she passes off the tray she just finished to a waiter who quickly takes the yummy food out to guests. She excuses herself to continue her work but not before telling you to feel free to take a look around, knowing the sight of such an amazing kitchen might be of some interest.
As you hobnob with the various nobles, keeping an eye and ear out for anything useful regard the High Strategous you do pick up on a few things. First, he is almost always talking about the military might of Taldor and how exception Taldor's army is. You notice a few other nobles approach him and try to ingratiate themselves to him but none are having a lot of success even though he seems to at least be open to their attempts. Similarly after a few heated arguments where someone attempts to intimidate him into believing their stance the parties involved find little success. However, the Maxillar applauds their effort on attempting to sway him through such brute force of personality.
As the evening marches on you all continue to make progress in your own ways. Even if slightly overwhelming, you all have done well adapting to the social scene and fitting in with the crowd.
Princess Eutropia's speech is starting soon. Best I want to at least make some headway with the Baron first. Rossana tries to mask her conflicting emotions as best she can as she pushes on in her conversation with the Baron for the moment.
After a few more pleasantries and compliments, Rossana drops Martella's name to begin testing the waters before moving the conversation on. After several minutes, however, Rossana suggests they place this conversation on the side for now, as not to be late for the Princess' speech.
Capricia continues to seek out Bimble or one of her other co-conspirators.
Can't make a forgery to embarrass or implicate someone when I don't know who I'm setting up! she thinks.
Not finding anyone immediately, she overhears talk of the princess's coming speech in the courtyard, she guesses that's where the action--and her new comrades--will be.
Sara looks at Marcus and smiles with a tinge of excitement. It was time to do the daring sabotage of the wine. First step was to find the lovely vintage in the chaos of the kitchens, which he was much more capable of doing. Not much wine involved in kneading bread... unfortunately.
While Marcus looked over the bottles, she bothered, fretted, smiled, and 'helped' any who took any kind of notice to the esteemed chef.
"Oh wait!" she exclaimed at a young waitress who was looking at the man's features with an exceedingly more than friendly appreciation. A look that shifted her hazelnut eyes to his hands, wondering something probably a tad naughty, but also in danger of noticing those fingers tracing the labels of various bottles of superb vintage.
Sara's sudden exclamation caused those eyes to flash to her own. Filled with annoyance and surprise in equal measure. Sara followed with, "Sorry, but see these capers have spilled over into the cream here" which they had, but only due to Sara's hand 'pointing' out the flaw.
The woman's eyes widened, knowing she would have been scolded to no end if she had carried that dish out in this state and head staff had seen. "Oh bother to the abyss and back. Thanks miss." she sighed as she bolted back to fix it as quick as possible.
Sara breathed her own sigh, in relief. She wondered how many more of those she could do before that Marcus found their prize.
Marcus chuckled to himself at how easily his baker companion seemed to be taking to subterfuge and sabotage.
I could learn a thing or two from her, I think.
Taking the opportunity, he spots a wide assortment of wines from all over Golarion, and tries to pick out the one described by Martella.
Celad continues to talk and mingle, making polite comments about various battles and strategies, the training regimen of the troops, and so on. All of his comments have the underlying theme of, "The High Strategos is worthy of admiration, and very good at what he does."
Heading to the courtyard early to get a good spot and take in the scene, the Princess immediately draws your attention. You try to get a feel for her, but with so many others conversing with her it is hard to get a good read. Instead you look around at the crowd. Oddly, you do notice one of the serving staff breaks off from the group and heads toward the apiary near the edge of the courtyard. The senate apiary consists of three wooden boxes, each housing a small beehive used to pollinate the garden’s various exotic plants and make exquisite honey used in the kitchens.
Dozens of senators, well-wishers, and hangers-on have gathered around the newly arrived Princess Eutropia Stavian. By the time some of you arrive, Princess Eutropia has already attracted a large gaggle of several dozen nobles and you see Valeria and Hazel both near the front of the crowd. Lady Gloriana Morilla loudly clinks her glass and declares that Princess Eutropia would like to address the gathering. With the announcement, the crowd gives Eutropia some space, and Gloriana helps the princess climb onto the garden’s stone railing to be seen and heard above the throngs.
"My friends, colleagues, and assorted enemies, it is wonderful to see you all out in your finery beneath the beautiful stars tonight. With any luck, the weather will be the only thing that refuses to change this evening.
We have all gathered here tonight to honor Master Kalbio of Breezy Creek, a master artisan and true patriot, for his exquisite skill and service to our glorious empire. Master Kalbio demonstrates so eloquently that a heart may be noble regardless of the stature of one’s birth, and while it may be premature, I hope to be the first to congratulate you, sir, on the exaltation you will see tonight and welcome you into the ranks of Taldor’s long-lived aristocracy."
She nods to Kalibo and the crowd gives a brief applause, as Kalibo blushes. Once the crowd has settled the Princess continues.
"But we gather here to discuss matters of state, as well. And just as the exaltation reminds us that our glorious empire must always look out into the world to refresh the greatness of its leadership, we must all look out into the world around us and see how it has grown. The child-nations our empire birthed — Andoran, Cheliax, Lastwall — have grown strong by examining the great traditions they inherited from our motherland, and embracing those relevant to this new world and discarding those that held them back. So too will we, this very night, examine one of Taldor’s oldest traditions — primogeniture — with eyes wide open, to determine whether it has held us back from the glory and stability our wayward states have found.
Our obligation tonight is not about one person or one vote in the senate. It is about the nation we love and about ensuring that nation does not fall behind the times. We are the inheritors of mighty Azlant, and I say that we must work together to avoid sharing that old empire’s fate. Taldor endures!"
An uproar of applause meets the conclusion of the Princess's speech. She hops down from the railing and is suddenly inundated with supporters and critics alike.
Celad makes his way to the courtyard, arriving just as the princess begins to speak. He remains quiet, listening to her.
She says the right things. We'll see in time if she truly means them.
Capricia notices someone fitting the description of the Countess Abrielle Pace nearby, so she slips a bit closer and tries to overhear her thoughts on the princess's speech and, more importantly, her views on the coming vote on primogeniture.
So she really is like I've heard, Rossana thinks as the Princess gives her speech. She might actually hear me out, then. However, the Princess is immediately swarmed by others wanting to speak to her after the speech, so Rossana decides to wait just a bit more to bring her own personal matter to out into the open. Her swishing tail betrays her anxiousness, though.
"So, the Princess seems to have a lot of plans of her own, right?" Rossana comments turning to Baron Okerra who had come with her. With this, Rossana carefully guides the conversation until she loops it back to Martella once more to wrap up this task. "I hear one of Princess Eutropia's main supporters is actually Lady Martella. Yes, I believe we all owe Lady Martella something, wouldn't you say, my Lord?"
The kitchens are a bussle, whispered chattering everywhere about the Princesses speech that had started. Making Sara more than a little depressed. Yes, doing a bit of sabatage while every one is distracted with an Amazing political speech from the Foremost controversial Politician of their time. Well it made perfect sense to do it then
... but... she Hated missing it. This was a time she felt like stamping her feet and throwing a three year old tantrum. Political agents of reform don't do that kind of thing though, so on to work.
Retrieving the syringe filled with a putrefying agent from where she hid it on her body, a task in itself given the tightness of the dresses currently in fashion, she slowly and carefully punctures the cork, drepressing the stopper and ruining something probably priceless.
Marcus could see the look of disappointment in the baker's eyes at missing the speech, but he could hardly empathize.
Eutropia may be better than some others, and I for one have no desire to hear any speech-giving. Better to be back here, making a difference.
Marcus holds the bottle steady as Sara attempts to sabotage it.
As you get closer to the Princesstrying to discern her true nature you are stopped by Lady Gloriana Morilla who compliments you on the state of your armor. Striking up a conversation with her she seems rather impressed as you speak about your coming to faith from your noble upbringing. This also gives you time to scan the Princess.
Turning back to the baron he nods to your statement on the Princess "Perhaps she has some good points. I'm curious what are your thoughts on primogeniture?" As you explain your views and eventually loop back to Lady Lotheed he shrugs "That is what I've heard that she trades in favors and debts. Though, as of yet, I've not met the woman in person."
As people mingle in the courtyard you start to her screams and yelps coming from the direction of the apiary. Something has caused the bees to stir as the boxes have collapsed and a massive swarm causes immediate panic in the crowd.
You take the above damage from bee stings and the trampling crowd.
As the courtyard clears a mess of guards rushes into the scene. While security officials step in to investigate and clean up the mess caused by the swarming bees and subsequent exodus of attendees, Princess Eutropia and Lady Gloriana Morilla assist in looking into the matter.
After the whole mess with the bees you all suddenly hear Martella's voice in your head. "Excuse the interruption my friends, I should like to have a brief meeting with everyone in the gallery if you can all make your way here promptly."
As you first arrive, she is grinning and clapping gently as she watches one of the jugglers, but she hurriedly composes herself and dons her air of mystery once she realizes anyone is watching. She has sectioned off a small meeting point on the upper walkways with chairs and a pot of fresh coffee.
Once everyone arrives she smiles and looks to each of you in turn "I hope you are enjoying yourselves so far this evening. I see you are all here and none of you have been thrown out so far," she giggles "so I suppose that is at least a good sign."
She pours herself a cup of coffee and motions for you to help yourselves before continuing, apparently unaware of the recent bee mayham "So, anything of note, or any issues or questions so far?"
Celad avoids the bees and manages to safely thread his way through the exodus. He looks around to see if there is anyone in immediate need of a healer. Once order seems to be restored, he makes his way to the gallery.
Upon arrival, he nods in polite greeting to everyone, looking everyone over, including Lady Martella, to see if anyone was injured in the crush.
If all looks to be in order and no one seems injured, he will assume a position of parade rest and turn his attention to Martella.
Capricia gracefully cuts and dodges through the crowd, avoiding any beestings. At the meeting, she initially glares at Martella but then becomes businesslike as she makes her report.
"I've gathered quills, ink, and parchment if we're still planning to forge a document to discredit someone here. I eavesdropped on...Countess Bice, no--Brace...PACE!--Countess Pace! While she thinks ending primogeniture would be good for her personally, she doesn't think the Princess has the votes for it to pass, so she's planning on voting against it just so she can say she was on the winning side! Stupid ditz! Are all Taldan noblewoman so foolish?" Her eyes turn ever-so-briefly toward Lady Lotheed when she makes this last remark.
Regaining her composure, the tall redhead adds, "Oh yes--I also noticed one of the staff break off from a group of servants and enter the beehive area. The other servants didn't seem to notice so I assumed it was normal protocol. Apparently, it was not."
Quite enjoying the conversation and about to seal the deal, Rossana trails off. Her sensitive ears stand up as the droning of bees grows louder. Quick to react, Rossana has the Baron and whoever else will listen rush back into the building as the bees begin swarming. What in the world was that?
Returning at Martella's call, Rossana notices her fellow worker's glare at Martella. What does she have against her to always be hostile? "I've been working on Baron Okerra and almost had his vote as well before the bee swarm attack. Was it really a deliberate attempt? It did happen right after the speech, so it could have been one of Princess Eutropia's resisters."
Not to mention that I lost my chance to approach her, Rossana adds to herself.
"By the way, is that brass cricket a memento of yours? I notice you have brought it with you again."
Sara is very enthusiastic, practically bouncing as she accompanies Marcus up to the gallery. "Greetings all!" the baker says with a short curtsey.
"odd little thing that" Sara thinks.
"No one will be enjoying a nip of that wine, mam." Sara relates. "Marcus delighted the maid's eyes, distracting them from Everything, then we puntirified a work of art." the last bit was added with a tinge of disappointment.
As Sara reports the success they had in his mission, Marucs nods his approval.
"Yes, Sara did quite well. Also, I think we've figured out how to use the servant passageways to move quickly around the building. If anyone is going to be delivering messages, it might come in handy."
Somewhat distracted, Marcus doesn't hear much of what the others are saying before asking: "So, can I help anyone else? Now that we've accomplished out task, that is."
Lady Lotheed listens as you give your various reports. When Caprcia and Bimble note what they had found about Countess Pace and Duke Centimus, respectively, she nods approvingly "Good to know, I appreciate your diligence."
As Capricia and Rossana mention the staff and the beehive she quirks a brow "Oh, there was a swarm of bees? I heard the ruckus below but wasn't sure what was going on." Shrugging she continues "It doesn't surpise me that someone else may be working against things tonight."
As Rossana inquires about the mechanical cricket Lady Lotheed grins "It is a... useful tool. Upon winding it up it creates a sort of barrier of sound that makes it much more difficult for others to overhear our conversation."
She nods to Sara and Marcus's report "Excellent. I shall enjoy hearing the gossip that will create for my brother."
When Marcus notes about delivering messages, Martella pulls out a letter and waves it in the air "That reminds me. Which of you will be helping to run letters for me tonight? I have your first one here."