She starts to nibble on a dark chocolate shell filled with a hazelnut ganache when she notices the armor has gray hair.
"Oh, hello. Enjoying the party?"
K'Aldrian, who had been watching the oblivious half-elf with interest, wondering if she was going to see him or had some sort of romantic attraction to chocolate that caused a sort of focused-vision blindness. He seems somewhat surprised she addresses him...very informally.
"Hello," K'Aldrian responds. "I have attended so very few parties like this, I am not sure what to expect. Though, to answer your question, I cannot say it has been a bad time. I will say that I have had new experiences and learned a bit...so it has not been a total loss." K'Aldrian watches the half-elf suck stuffing from the shell with some fascination. He right hand holds a chilled drink that he barely sips.
"And this weather we're having? Just perfect for the night, isn't it?" K'Aldrian offers some banal conversation, trying to stay safe within the bounds of unknown protocols.
She'll probably respond with something equally vacuous. K'Aldrian ponders his next move in this conversation.
"New experiences? I am most interested to hear about them. Have you tried the ballon. It is absolutely wonderful. Please share."
Hmm. Does he mean the food? The people? What could be new to this old soul?
Kamari continues to nibble on the ganache a few moments before noticing Mama D.
"And welcome, my lady? My grace? Please forgive me. I know you not." Kamari considers a curtsy, but remembers the truffle in her hand. "I am Kamari Everly." She holds still even as the chocolate begins to melt between her fingers.
The heels of his fanciful shoes — leather in the style of autumn leaves — announce Anselm's arrival. His nobleman's outfit looks austere at first glance, with little fey whiffs making themselves known as he approaches. A sparkle of pixie dust here, gossamer peaking out of a seam there.
He nods at the statuesque veteran. "Suilad, he greets the man in Elvish. "I am..." He catches sight of Kamari. "Oh, suilad to you as well. I enjoyed our chat in the balloon. But forgive me, I did not introduce myself. Anselm Basri. Ah, and milady Madella, isn't it? What a lovely little lepidopterarium."
With one hand he gestures to Mama D's wrist cage, while with the other he discreetly offers Kamari a kerchief for her chocolatey hands, smiling kindly.
Before any chocolate can drip to the ground, Kamari fakes a yawn and pops the last of it into her mouth. She regrets not being able to suck the last of it off her fingers, but she reminds herself that she's sacrificed much more in her life.
She accepts the kerchief from the latest arrival and wipes her hands clean behind her back.
Madella? Lady Madella Lotheed!
Kamari takes a closer look at the other two. And Major K'Aldrian Kort. And Anselm the Younger. What am I getting into?
"Please share."
K'Aldrian's face stiffens at the command. He pauses a moment, trying to place this waif's status as nobility or clueless. He can't quite decide based on much, but the way she acts, sucking ganache, he will assume lowly-born, possibly urchin or dock rat. But her speech...that is another matter...
Unable to determine if he has the high ground or not, K'Aldrian offers a feint to see learn more.
"I have already learnt that some people here are not what they seem. And that they are allowing both nobility and common folk to mingle very freely this night," K'Aldrian offers a small smile. "And you? What have you gleaned?"
Allowing?!? Kamari twists the kerchief behind her back and ensures her smile is still in place.
" Tonight has yielded a bountiful harvest of new notions. I have seen everyone from the heavens and observed how they are not so dissimilar. I have also partaken of the most ornate victuals. Some have delighted me completely when consumed while others were vapid when discerned by my other senses."
"I expect that the gleaning will not take place until the morning. Those of us with a kind heart will be gathering what leftovers might be shared with those not fortunate enough to join us this night."
Kamari tilts her head slightly with her final words before turning to the other people in the room.
Oh, to be that young again, and free. Madella allows herself a momentary bubble of joy at the young half elf's pure enjoyment of the chocolate.
At Anselm's notice of the little cage, she laughs, "well, it would be a bit large for a butterfly, but Cuddles, my little hedgehog friend, seems to find it fun enough. At least for now. Still, it is a cage, and he is most happy with a little more freedom." she holds the cage up a bit closer, so that Anselm might enjoy a better look at her companion.
As discussion continues, Madella finds her comfort in quiet, as happy to listen as to speak, while taking in each attendee in turn.
The military man. He looks rather wedded to King and Country. Can he truly wish to see the Princess on the throne?
Muri departs the pastry table for the third and last time. With Underfoot in tow, and packed with several cream horns smushed together, the hatted halfling obliges his host. He makes his way to the meeting with Martella, briskly at first, then more warily, as he sets eyes on Ulfen.
Can't be the cream, and if it is, I can just give them back, right. No harm, no faux pas? Muri pats his groin, where freshly acquired mithral is safely tucked away. Now that could be a problem. The Tribune couldn't possibly have set me up, could he? He felt genuine, but still...
Entering the drawing room, the halfling and his dog pause in the doorway, taking it all in.
Huh. Multiple. She has been busy tonight. Alright, so we've got Kind Bloke of Winks, Bouncy Balloon Girl, Biddy, and Bodyguard. Now we just need Martella to make her entrance.
Muri ogles the drink tray for a moment before his stomach gurgles. He decides to decline a midnight drink, so steers his dog to a comfortable-looking rug next to a chaise lounge, where he takes a seat. He tilts his head at the others.
"Evening! My name's Muri. I'm glad to see Martella's not here, yet. She doesn't seem like she has a lot of time to waste tonight. You suppose there are any more coming, before she meets with us?"
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”Ahh, oh my heavens!” Lord Miragella exclaims, ”You lot are persistent!”
'Lot'?
Laughing lightly, he leans in and whispers, ”If ever you have need of certain magics or other items… ahh, the kind you might not want other nobles to know about, why, you look me up. OK? Within reason now, nothing necromantic or the like mind you.”
Stunned, Mallë-o i Otos Elen watches Miragella fade into the crowd. I may have been wrong about him at first, but he certainly is an odd one...
With a barely perceptable shake of the head, she glides her way through the throng to the drawing room.
~~~~~
"You suppose there are any more coming, before she meets with us?"
... is this where The Thing ... oh! Thank you so much.
A five foot nine, usually slender elf flits into the room. Her long platinum hair -- streaked earthly reds and spring greens is assembled in braids, some of which are pinned into a woven bun with hair sticks. The current arrangement of her bangs suggest that they have a mind of their own.
She is currently clad in a simple flowing gown in muted gold with minimal forest green accents matching her simple flats. A sheer silk scarf is pinned in place with a crystal brooch.
She nods to all those in the room as she enters, and helps herself to a glass of elderflower tonic before taking a seat.
She waits for a natural lull in the group's conversation before saying, "Greetings! I am 'Maleh ee Ottus Elen' from Tian Xia," she says by way of introduction, "but for short, please call me 'Elen'."
She acknowledges the four legged fauna with a smile. And takes a quick look around at her companions.
An (errant?) soldier, a human clad in what looks to be really comfortable cloths, a sassy looking young half elf, a sophisticated matron beast tamer, and a statement halfling with a dog bigger than himself.
She looks at Muri. "May I ask, is your family by any chance originally from Tian Xia also?"
At a half-lean against the side of the chaise, it's little effort for Muri to stand at attention, when the elegant elf inquires. "Greetings, Elen. I like the braids." The sun-touched halfling takes his hat off, less out of politeness, more to demonstrate a light tangle of black hair. "Hat was faster." He tucks the hair under his feathered hat, before answering appropriately this time.
"I've been told my family tree is nicely spliced, but I'm not a very good student. Why do you ask?"
A halfling of some marginal noble stature. An elf. Two commoners of elvish blood. And Mama D. It is good Eutropia gathers such a broad coalition.
"Suilad, Elen. Hello, milord Daybreaker. It is good of you to come all this way. It has been some moons since I visited your county. How is milady Pelicourt? Your father?" He does not speak with airs, though it's clear Anselm takes some care to present himself diplomatically, as befits a Basri. He nods his head with respect, though he does not bow.
"They're both well, thank you..."
"...Master Basri. My father is taking well to the quieter life. My aunt is living comfortably, but her hearing is not what it was. It doesn't feel right, having to yell at old people." Muri looks at the elders in the room, and tugs on his hat's brim, in respect.
Looking back to Anselm, Muri queries. "How was the balloon ride? Was that you're first time? Was there any chance you could have fallen? That's probably part of the thrill, right?" The halfling looks expectantly at the well-appointed young man.
A halfling returned to the city from the north and an elf from Tian Xia. Her royal highness has drawn on quite an eclectic group. We shall be quite strong if we can weave together our strengths.
Kamari looks at the door expectantly to see who else might walk in.
How many does it take to bring about a revolution?
"Those of us with a kind heart will be gathering what leftovers might be shared with those not fortunate enough to join us this night."
K'Aldrian seems about to respond when Kamari turns to look at the others entering. The Major follows her gaze, also intrigued. And he spends his time both watching the newcomers, their pets, and again at Kamari, trying to puzzle out what she sees.
"Well, it was nice to meet you." K'Aldrian uses the distraction to hunt down a more freshly chilled beverage.
"Evening! My name's Muri."
Grabbing a fresh drink, he moves to the chaise lounge and creaks his knees down on the side, getting some weight off his feet.
Know (Local) - Muri
"Nice to meet you, Muri. Who is your friend?" The Major holds his hand down should the dog wish a sniff (or a bite). "I could use a place to sit for a while, do you mind?" He spreads his hands to the lounge.
A five foot nine, usually slender elf flits into the room. Her long platinum hair -- streaked earthly reds and spring greens is assembled in braids, some of which are pinned into a woven bun with hair sticks. She is currently clad in a simple flowing gown in muted gold with minimal forest green accents matching her simple flats. A sheer silk scarf is pinned in place with a crystal brooch.
K'Aldrian offers a quiet, but sharp, intake of breath as Elen enters the room. He's an old man, but some urges do not go away completely. He sits even more upright than before (if that was even possible) and thinks upon a time when he might have devised an approach to such a lady. But, that is a younger man's game, and he is not young.
"Greetings! I am 'Maleh ee Ottus Elen' from Tian Xia," she says by way of introduction, "but for short, please call me 'Elen'."
Know (Local) - Elen
K'Aldrian nods his head and takes a drink of his beverage, unwilling to intrude on the conversation of others. Tian Xia, eh? She is far from home. Why is she here?
"Nice to meet you, Muri. Who is your friend? I could use a place to sit for a while, do you mind?"
Muri nods, small enough to not have to move at all to allow the greybeard a seat. "I don't mind..." The halfling leans his head a little to observe the seated dog raise her nose, and sniff several times, before nudging the hand twice, and returning to her vigilance. "...and it looks like Underfoot doesn't mind, either." Muri smiles at the Major.
"Sorry, but I thought you were Lady Martella's personal guard. You know, the advisor, reads the room first before his ward arrives? When you took a seat, I figured I was wrong. Guards don't sit. So, she wants to speak to us all? This evening keeps getting more interesting."
Muri doesn't bother asking the military man his name. Names are very likely going to come out when Lady Lotheed arrives.
She nods and curtsys to Mama D, "Lady."
~~~~
Elen laughs lightly as Muri shows off his tangle of hair.
"I've been told my family tree is nicely spliced, but I'm not a very good student. Why do you ask?"
"Your mannerisms and the way you carry yourself remind me of an acquaintance from home, is all. Forgive me, it is quite remarkable, the resemblance. I thought you might be related."
"Oh you must be Major K'Aldrian Kort!" she exclaims directing her attention to the overly straight soldier having now placed the vintage of his Parade Armor. "Has it been two years already! My, where does the time go? We've heard so much about you! The soldiers in New Oppara really look up to you."
She looks at Kamari, and a memory flashes across her mind. "Are you by any chance Kamari Everly? I think I have seen your drawings at Café Montague! They're beautiful!"
She smiles at Anselm hoping that he'll speak first. Oh, I'd like to tell him 'People fear what they don't understand, that's all. No one believes you're mad. The Fey do not behave in this manner anyway. I don't blame them for wanting to keep their distance from humans.' But if the others aren't aware, that might become awkward, and more ridiculous rumors might spread.
Anselm smiles, pivoting his gaze between Elen and Kamari. "An artist? Delightful. I dabble myself. I hope I may see your work sometime."
"And what do you think of Oppara, Elen? I hope it compares favorably to Jinin. Alas, I've been sequestered in the Verduran Forest these last years, and so have not yet found my way to Tian Xia. The fey court is jealous of its hostages, as with all of their play things." A worthy preparation for life in Stavian's court.
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”My word, what a party.” says Martella Lotheed breathlessly as she breezes into the room, trailing a faint scent of lilac. ”Thank you all for coming. I appreciate your willingness to improve our collective futures. Our task, as I mentioned briefly before, is to work to place Princess Eutropia Stavian on the throne.” She catches her breath and looks at each of you with a radiant smile, ”The first Queen of Taldor - if all goes well!”
”This will be no small feat, and while we are well financed and organized, our enemies are many, and easily as well equipped. The Exaltation Gala is in the evening on the first of Pharast, in just three days. As the bright scion of the Stavian family line works to win the trust of the Taldan people, you shall serve on the front lines of the shadow war raging out of most peoples’ sight.” she smiles, clearly eager for the upcoming challenges.
”Visitors are flocking to Oppara as we lead up to the Grand Day of Exaltation. The populace of the city will double during this time, making Oppara larger than any other city in the Inner Sea region, save Absalom! Of course, the self importance of the already prideful Taldan people swells in equal measure,” she ads wryly with a smile. ”You can expect street vendors to sell traditional Taldan foods: anchovy skewers, anglebobs, canal crossings, clamguards, jubilee pie, honeyflake, long wine, yonder tarts, and more! There will even be regional delicacies from separated provinces such as Andoran mince and Chelish raven cake.”
”Family banners and provincial flags already 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 and adults alike. Taverns are offering themed drinks and food, with varying bars adopting well-known nobles from the long history of the empire as their mascot or self declared patron.”
She pauses for a moment to let all that sink in before proceeding. Certainly all of it is consistent with what you’ve experienced in the last few days and even weeks, as the city celebrates.
”Alongside all the pomp and circumstance filling Oppara is a noteworthy moment: the Imperial Senate is poised to hold an historic vote to end primogeniture! The potential end of the millennia standing law of male-only succession is quite frankly 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 some of the, ah, elder nobles, believe the vote to be another wound in the great story of the empire, allowing not only the rabble rousing Eutropia to inherit family power, but every ill deserving woman.” she scowls at the intransigence of the more senior members of society.
”I have some simple missions for you to undertake during the Gala, held in the Senate building. So, naturally, you will be formal guests there. You should learn all you can prior to the event to help you prepare. You may, of course, help each other with your tasks, but I am relying on you.” She gives each of you a level stare. ”In addition to your missions, you should get to know the people. These contacts can serve you well in the future, both for yourselves, and for our joint purpose.”
She gives each of you a soft calf-skin pouch of gold as she verbally outlines your individual missions. ”Make yourselves presentable - after all you are representing our future Queen!”
Anselm must create a scandal surrounding one of the major opponents to the repeal of primogeniture. Doing so requires first identifying an opponent, either with a Sense Motive check or Knowledge Nobility, and then by spreading rumors with a successful Bluff check and manufacturing or co-opting damning evidence on the fly with a successful Linguistics check. You can, of course, get someone to help you in advance with crafting the evidence.
- - -
Divining each noble’s motivations requires a successful Sense Motive or Perception check after the noble has been put at ease with one or more successful Influence checks. They do not need to be fully influenced, just warmed up a bit. K’Aldrian doesn’t need to be the one to influence them either - anyone in the party can help.
- - -
Navigating the crowded senate floor to deliver messages quickly requires a successful Escape Artist or combat maneuver check (Kamari’s crowd bonus applies). Martella expects there will be a few errands that need to be run, but what exactly she will need she doesn’t know as yet. She suggests that Kamari might not want to wear her armor during this portion of the event for greater mobility, but it’s entirely up to her.
- - -
Recognizing the correct bottle in the crowded kitchen requires a successful Appraise check or Knowledge Nobility check, while injecting the putrefying agent without leaving any trace of tampering requires a successful Disable Device check, or some sort of subterfuge / distraction. Here too, the use of an ally or two is strongly recommended.
- - -
Mama D can accomplish this task by successfully influencing the baron, or more difficultly by succeeding at two tough Intimidate checks to browbeat him.
- - -
Spying requires a total of three successful Perception or Sense Motive checks, but to approach close enough to attempt one of these checks while remaining unnoticed requires the agent to first succeed a Disguise or Stealth check (this check is considered part of your social action, not a separate action).
- - -
”Succeed in your missions and there will be a financial reward, naturally, but also the appreciation of the future Queen. For the accountants among you, the financial reward is a purse of 150 gold for each of you who succeed. Any questions?” she asks as the clock winds close to 1am.
Anselm bows again to Lady Martella and eyes his new colleagues with appreciation bordering on tenderness.
"Milady, have you a sense of our most influential opposition? I would imagine the Talbots will hew to tradition. And it is difficult for me to imagine the... proud... men of Vernisant or Karthis accepting a queen's rule. Of course, we Basri endeavor always to remain neutral in such matters. We stand for Taldor, whomever rules." He says the last with a wry smirk.
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She nods and curtsys to Mama D, "Lady."
Madella smiles at the lovely foreigner…and really, aren’t we all foreigners somewhere? ”Oh my dear, that is not necessary, neither the curtsy, nor the title. Having never married, I am currently considered beyond both of those. At my age, one supposes there should be something else, though, shouldn’t there?”
She pets the hedgehog in its little cage, then continues, her face the very image of fond memory, ”Our dear little Robkin settled upon “Mama D”, when he was very very young, and never altered course, much to his Father’s chagrin. You would be welcome to as well, since it seems we may be… companions through this little venture.” With a nod of her head, she includes the rest of the troupe.”but for those less comfortable with such familiarity, Madame Lotheed will do.” She does hope they opt for the former, it will be less confusing with Martella in their midst.
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"Sorry, but I thought you were Lady Martella's personal guard. Guards don't sit. So, she wants to speak to us all? This evening keeps getting more interesting."
K'Aldrian snort.
"No, my guarding days are long behind me, and I'm not much good in a fight. I'm as clueless as any as to what is going to happen here." As he says this, he reaches out to give Underfoot a good scritchin', should the animal wish it.
"Oh you must be Major K'Aldrian Kort! Has it been two years already! My, where does the time go? We've heard so much about you! The soldiers in New Oppara really look up to you."
K'Aldrian fails to surprise his shock, uncertain how the woman knows him. His right hand clamps down on his cane, uncertain of what is happening, and whether it is an attack or just a random meeting. He achingly rises to his feet to offer his hand to Elen.
"You have me at a loss. I do not think we have met before? Have we? I cannot imagine the soldiers of New Oppara even knowing who I am, but bless you for saying so."
He is about to ask Elen more questions, but they are interrupted by the entrance of Lady Lotheed. He remains standing for the Lady offering her an appropriate bow from the waist.
He stands quite stiffly and listens to the Lady's words, trying to see any malice or deception though he does note expect any. He is new to politics and does not want to be taken advantage of.
Sense Motive
"I think I have seen your drawings at Café Montague! They're beautiful!"
Well she knows the way to a girl's heart. She smiles in gratitude and is about to compliment Elen on her hair when Lady Lotheed enters.
...
Kamari takes in Lady Lotheed's well thought out plans with a bit of disappoint at her appointed role. Aide? Messenger? She receives the pouch and can't help but think that it holds more than she's saved up these past few years. Of course, I'd have more if I didn't keep giving it away.
"I will be by your side by midday, my lady. There's a seamstress who owes me a favor and does lovely work quickly." She looks about and not so subtly shares, "Which leaves my morning free if anyone needs assistance."
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"Your mannerisms and the way you carry yourself remind me of an acquaintance from home, is all. Forgive me, it is quite remarkable, the resemblance. I thought you might be related."
Muri pushes his lower lip in front of his upper, and nods a couple of times, picturing a stroll down the streets of Tian Xia, wending his way to a local cemetery, where his newly-discovered family recalls fond memories of their ancestors, which, by the transitive property, would be his own newly-discovered ancestors. It is a pleasant bubble of thought.
"Alas, I've been sequestered in the Verduran Forest these last years, and so have not yet found my way to Tian Xia. The fey court is jealous of its hostages, as with all of their play things."
Hostage of the fey? For years? Wonder what he did to anger them. Muri tries to imagine Anselm in a deep, dark forest hunting sprites, or trying to bag a leprechaun for its gold, and snorts. The man looks too kind by far to wear the leathers, and dirty himself under wild canopies.
”Our dear little Robkin settled upon 'Mama D', when he was very very young, and never altered course, much to his Father’s chagrin. You would be welcome to as well, since it seems we may be… companions through this little venture. But for those less comfortable with such familiarity, Madame Lotheed will do.”
Muri is slow to make the connection between the little cage, and Underfoot's vigilance, but he recognizes soon enough that his dog is interested, though she knows enough to hold her position in the room. 'Companions' is a nice word. Not many of those in the city. Might be good to make more before I leave.
"'Madame Lotheed' is just one more syllable. And it sounds more noble. Unless it makes you feel like you're in trouble when someone calls you that." The halfling side eyes his dog, making sure she's no further forward than before. He's half-glad to see the Major's hand occupying Underfoot's withers, as it diminishes one animal instinct while it heightens another.
...
When Martella arrives, so does the distillate from his kidneys. Muri does his level best to hear the Lady out fully, anticipating a very deliberate visit to the in-house outhouse posthaste, on her departure.
"I have some simple missions for you to undertake during the Gala, held in the Senate building. So, naturally, you will be formal guests there. You should learn all you can prior to the event to help you prepare. You may, of course, help each other with your tasks, but I am relying on you. In addition to your missions, you should get to know the people. These contacts can serve you well in the future, both for yourselves, and for our joint purpose. Make yourselves presentable - after all you are representing our future Queen!”
The halfling stands attentive, with a mouth slightly ajar. "So... we're formal guests of... you, or Princess Eutropia? Or both of you? Some of the things you're asking to be done, well, if someone is caught out, then what? I don't want to damage my family name, or yours."
"Milady, have you a sense of our most influential opposition? I would imagine the Talbots will hew to tradition. And it is difficult for me to imagine the... proud... men of Vernisant or Karthis accepting a queen's rule. Of course, we Basri endeavor always to remain neutral in such matters. We stand for Taldor, whomever rules." He says the last with a wry smirk.
”Indeed, there are many who would oppose a Queen Eutropia Stavian, and we could spend all night, or rather all morning, listing her opponents. Rest assured I have just such a list, constantly revised and revisited. But for now, let us focus on our narrow purpose for your group, namely to see to it that the Gala goes well for us.”
”Most of the pieces are already in place as you might imagine. I just need some assistants, you if you are so willing, that night to ensure all goes to plan.” She laughs lightly, ”Though almost nothing goes exactly to plan!”
- - -
"I will be by your side by midday, my lady. There's a seamstress who owes me a favor and does lovely work quickly." She looks about and not so subtly shares, "Which leaves my morning free if anyone needs assistance."
”Yes, thank you. Please work together as a team. If this works as well as I hope, there will be much more to do - and things of greater importance of course. Our organization is small, but the ruling of a kingdom is a vast undertaking which will require many more able and trustworthy hands.” the Lady adds.
The halfling stands attentive, with a mouth slightly ajar. ”So... we're formal guests of... you, or Princess Eutropia? Or both of you? Some of the things you're asking to be done, well, if someone is caught out, then what? I don't want to damage my family name, or yours.”
”Good question.” she says matter of factly, ”You’re working for me, when you must admit to such things to avoid real difficulty, as my senatorial aides. No, I am not a senator, but I have enough influence that I’m a notable at events such as these, and entitled to my own retinue. I hope, however, that you’ll be resourceful enough that you won’t even need to drag my name into any, ah, inconveniences during the evening. But if you must, I am the target, not the Princess.”
While waiting for others to speak, Kamari recalls Mistress Betzina's shop and debates between her two favorites and the few alternations she'd request. The full length dress is quite elegant, but the tulle sleeves would need to go. The shorter one might be better if I'm going to be dashing about a lot.
She lets her mind wander in the silence and begins to ponder the jewelry. I hope Master Arpels still has that gold and emerald necklace with diamond chips and the matching earrings. A few knotted gold rings should go well with them.
About 30 gold for the dress. Maybe 50 for the jewelry. Might have to settle for only one or two rings...
K'Aldrian offers the Lady another stiff, but appropriate, bow from the waist. In this, he acknowledges and accepts this task.
Why would I want a quiet retirement? This could be interesting.
He looks around at the others, not knowing all their names yet, but also realizing that he might need them in future. In fact, he should know their capabilities and interests as much as possible so that we could deploy them in the most efficient manner. He looks at them, taking stock with an appraising eye.
He casts his eyes to those names he knows, Muri and Elen, and the three he does not: Kamari, Mama, and Anselm.
He moves to speak with Mama D, offering his hand outstretched to the lady. His cane clacks as he walks in his left hand.
"Ma'am, may I have a word? I do not yet know you. Let me introduce myself, Major K'Aldrian Kort. Retired, of course," K'Aldrian speaks slowly and stiffly to the matron. "I believe we will be working together and thought I might get your name."
"Yes, thank you. Please work together as a team. If this works as well as I hope, there will be much more to do - and things of greater importance of course."
"Are you by any chance Kamari Everly?..."
Muri does his best to remember the name Everly, and starts a little when he realizes that the duelist of the same name may actually be the woman with the rapier before him. A painter and a poker. Let's hope her temperament keeps her blade sheathed. We have yet to see her insulted. He can't help but smile in reaction to her enthusiasm, nonetheless.
Given the recent exchange, and mention of Tian Xia, Muri gives Elen a little more mental attention.
Ah! The Melimas. Small world. I'll have to ask Mircene when I get back. Maybe she knows Elen!
...
"Good question. You’re working for me... I am the target, not the Princess.”
Muri looks from Lady to Madame, then back to Lady Lotheed.
"So we're working for the Lotheeds." The halfling states it without a shred of uncertainty.
"How are you two related?"
"Ma'am, may I have a word? I do not yet know you. Let me introduce myself, Major K'Aldrian Kort. Retired, of course,"
"It is a pleasure, Major, I am certain." At least unless or until we have cause to think otherwise. And he is *here*, after all. That is a place to start.
"I believe we will be working together and thought I might get your name."
"Of course! I am Madella Lotheed of the..."
"How are you two related?"
It has been years since such frankness could bring a blush to Madella's cheeks; being a governess for a generation or two will do that.
"it is quite a distant relationship. I am from the Porthmos Line of the Lotheeds. Near Stavian's Hold."She shifts subtly to take in both the Retired Major and the halfling, "I am looking forward to working with all of you through this exiting time."
"Cheers to that!" Anselm approaches, raising a flute of fine Opparos bubbly.
Close up, it's clear that his nobleman's outfit is not so much frayed as artful. Finely tailored, with accents that reference the fancies of the fey court. Whether it's truly his taste, or simply the attire one wears to a fey court, you cannot say. A colorful brooch depicting Shelyn's songbird is pinned to his lapel.
"Major, have you a story from your years of service, which might guide us in our quest?"
He eyes Mama D and gives her a smile as he listens to K'Aldrian. He does not seem like someone who has suffered as a hostage. But then, it's common for one court to hold another's noble children in its custody, to vouchsafe a treaty or truce.
. . . . .
Time permitting before the Senate ball, Anselm asks his family — as well as friends at the gentlefolk's club — for an update on court politics. "Help me understand the primogeniture vote. Who stands against it? Who for?" His follow up questions, naturally, zero in on those who oppose Eutropia's legislation.
"Of course! I am Madella Lotheed of the...it is quite a distant relationship. I am from the Porthmos Line of the Lotheeds. Near Stavian's Hold."
K'Aldrian leans into Mama's words as she speaks, but then draws back as she reveals her lineage. Ah! She must be in charge, then. I've heard that the nobility prefer to hire their own.
"Nice to meet you, Madella," he replies, shaking her hand stiffly. "Are you...are you royalty as well? I don't have much experience with the nobility. I may come to you as I might need help with my tasks." He smiles briefly.
He seems on the verge of asking another question...
"Major, have you a story from your years of service, which might guide us in our quest?"
...and stops short, unaccustomed to being interrupted when he is speaking. That had not used happened often since he was raised to Major...some 20? 25? years ago. It was a quick rise, but he would never go above that station with his pointed ears.
"A story? Maybe some other time," K'Aldrain turns to look at Anselm. He sizes up the man. "You seem to have me at a disadvantage. I don't know your name."
Just like he had with Mama, he offers his hand out in greeting. He is unsure of his positioning here and does not want to give up the high ground, nor offer any obvious weakness.
"You would be welcome to [call me 'Mama D'] as well, since it seems we may be… companions through this little venture.”
"Oh! How charming! As you wish, Mama D."
~~~~
"Lady Martella, about -- Kamari's role," she gestures toward Kamari. "As your personal senetorial messenger aid -- how is she expected to behave at the dinner party? Will she still be a messenger, or a guest?"
Anselm's kind smile bespeaks something between patience, humility, and gratitiude.
He takes K'Aldrian's hand and says, "I am Anselm Basri. My family leads diplomatic missions at the Crown's embassy in Kyonin and in several other nations. I had the good fortune these last few years of serving as official representative to the Erlking's court in the heart of the Verduran Forest. Well, hostage technically, to help ensure the health of our treaties."
The young noble sighs lightly and addresses the broader group. "I must say, it's good to back home. If I had a copper for every time a sprite tried to steal my eye color, or a dryad the memory of my first kiss, I might be as wealthy as our gracious host."
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Know (Local) - Anselm Basri
”Clearly the fey took every last marble." Basri freezes for just a moment, as if recalling some fact.
”Nice to meet you,” K’Aldrian smiles and while he does not necessarily believe the rumors he’s heard, he also knows that there is sometimes truth in them. But he does relax just a bit, not expecting too much deception or an attack here. ”And you say you’ve been prisoner of the fey, have you?” K’Aldrian’s interest is clearly piqued.
”How did you escape? Or did they set you free?” his asks inquisitively, wanting to know more, but also realizing that this might not be the best time. He glances at Mama, to see if she has retreated or holds her ground.
Anselm laughs lightly. "Forgive me. I sometimes forget this is not widely known. It is one of the realities of noble life that we must sometimes go to live in another liege's court, to add certainty to newly forged peace or trade agreements. The practice was once much more common, but the Seelie Court of the fey does abide by ancient folkways."
He follows K'Aldrian's gaze to Mama D. "Rest assured, I was treated very well. They were by and large very hospital, if mischievous. I was able to leave when the tenure of the agreement lapsed."
"Lady Martella, about -- Kamari's role," she gestures toward Kamari. "As your personal senetorial messenger aid -- how is she expected to behave at the dinner party? Will she still be a messenger, or a guest?"
”Both.” Lady Lotheed says before expanding on her answer, ”You are all coming as my aids, there to assist me in whatever way seems fitting at the moment. But at occasions such as this, it is presumed that the aids are themselves people of some stature and substance. In fact, many of the people there tonight will fall into that category, myself included. We’re all guests of the Senators or the Grand Prince in one way or another, there to witness an historic vote.”
She pauses to answer any other questions before she stands and shakes each of your hands warmly, ”Feel free to let yourselves out when you’re done getting acquainted. Together we can accomplish great things. But now I must depart. Meet me at the Shining Scale, a tavern near the Senate, a little before tea time on Oathday for any last minute questions or concerns. Until then I wish you all well.”
She bows formally and departs as swiftly as she came, her guards trailing closely behind her, leaving you to your thoughts. Please continue chatting amongst yourselves. When we’re ready, I’ll move us on to the days before the Gala.
As you continue to chat, a servant quietly and unobtrusively wanders in, refreshes the sideboard, cleans up some empty glasses, and slips back out leaving you in continued privacy.
Spying the refreshed sideboard, Kamari picks up yet another exquisite truffle before breaking the silence and addressing Muri.
"It appears the Lady will have me quite busy, but perhaps my nights will be free. I have my mother's keen eyes even at night--at least that's what my father says--and could assist you in trailing the High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus."
Without waiting for an answer, she also makes an offer to the old Major, "Or Major, perhaps you could use some assistance with Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace. Especially once I have donned my new garments, I'm sure either would be open to me joining you in your solicitations."
She resists the temptation to go on to each person in the room.
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"Are you...are you royalty as well? I don't have much experience with the nobility. I may come to you as I might need help with my tasks."
"Oh, Heavens no, Major, not royalty,and currently barely even nobility to some, I am sure." Her smile breaks into something bright and lively, lines crinkling more deeply about her eyes. " But I've... a bit of knowledge and experience in that world. If it is within my power, I will, of course, be happy to aid you. Perhaps you may be able to aid me as well. Do you know anything about Baron Nicoloaus Okerra's war record that may not have made it out to the prefectures?"
She takes advantage of the young woman's approach to the Major to make a request of Kamari as well.
"Kamari, I know that a good seamstress is a treasure rarely shared, but would you mind if I infringed upon our new acquaintance? I will have need of something quickly, and would not want to risk an unknown for something this important. I'm afraid my favorite establishment from my previous time in Oppara is... no longer in business." A memory casts a shadow on her countenance, but only for a moment. She'd thought to go, when she'd received tonight's invitation, but alas, her favorite had passed some ten years ago. Now it sold hats. Ugly hats.
"It is one of the realities of noble life that we must sometimes go to live in another liege's court, to add certainty to newly forged peace or trade agreements. They were by and large very hospital, if mischievous."
Hospital? Hostile? Hospitable?
K'Aldrian turns the words over in his mind. He shakes his head, confused. But he smiles as the man seems earnest, even if he might be missing a few marbles.
Allies should be welcomed whenever they are found. I remember when we lead the pursuing Qadirans into an ankheg hive. Allies are allies.
"Glad to know are better for it," K'Aldrian says welcomingly. "I hope what you learnt there will be of use."
"Or Major, perhaps you could use some assistance with Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace. Especially once I have donned my new garments, I'm sure either would be open to me joining you in your solicitations."
K'Aldrian turns to face Kamari with some deference, bowing stiffly (but only because he cannot bow any other way).
"But of course, I will aid you where I can...but I do not yet know your name. I am Major K'Aldrian Kort, formerly of the First Army of Taldan Defense, now retired. And you are...?" K'Aldrian extends a hand to shake a warm, if stilted, greeting. "I am new to all this. I am capable. But still, I will not overpromise anything. But I will try to help."
"Oh, Heavens no, Major, not royalty,and currently barely even nobility to some, I am sure. If it is within my power, I will, of course, be happy to aid you. Perhaps you may be able to aid me as well. Do you know anything about Baron Nicoloaus Okerra's war record that may not have made it out to the prefectures?"
K'Aldrian smiles and bows again. He's not certain he is not bowing incorrectly for the occasion or too often, but he feels it better to bow until he understands his rank with all these...nobles? Commoners? He does not know, and will be playing it safe until he needs to determine the terrain for the battle or learns what his allies are capable of.
His smile is quickly replaced by a slight hesitating frown as he ponders what he might know of Baron Nicoloaus Okerra.
Know (local)
Know (Soldier)
"Ah, I meant to say 'hospitable'. I hope the same. Certainly, politesse in the fey court is nearly as exacting as in Stavian's." He sips from his bubbly, thinking about Baron Okerra.
"It is quite a distant relationship. I am from the Porthmos Line of the Lotheeds. Near Stavian's Hold."
Muri turns from Martella to look at the older Lotheed now answering for the two. He's sure enough of the Prefecture, less sure of the Hold, so he holds his tongue while both Lotheeds are present. There will be time to sort out so many heads. "Distant. Got it."
"You are all coming as my aids, there to assist me in whatever way seems fitting at the moment."
The halfling pulls out a mental ear marker, and visualizes each of the 'aides' in attendance. His mind's eye reaches up and punches Anselm's ear with the mark of 'Trickster'. Next, he marks the Major as 'Snoop', Kamari as 'Runner', Elen as 'Curdle', and Madame as 'Whisper'. He gives them a look over, making sure he can remember each of the tags, before turning to address Martella.
"You are certainly determined, Lady Lotheed. I am hopeful our meeting will lead to good things, but you're asking some of us to, well, do dishonorable things. Fly on a wall, listening in, that's ok, I guess. You're asking Anselm to spread a lie, and you're asking Elen to spoil wine with a needle. These actions, does Eutropia know what's being done to support her claim to the throne? I mean, once you ask someone to tamper with wine, doesn't it become easier the next time to ask someone to poison?"
...
When Lady Martella excuses herself, Muri does himself. "I'll be right back." He looks down on his dog, and bids her stay, while he runs his own 'errand'.
Returning to the privacy of the room minutes later, looking much more comfortable, Muri jumps back into the conversations.
"It appears the Lady will have me quite busy, but perhaps my nights will be free. I have my mother's keen eyes even at night--at least that's what my father says--and could assist you in trailing the High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus."
Muri feels his pulse quicken on the upswing of the half-elf's proposition, then ease its pace to something more room temperature when her purpose is made clear.
"Oh, I'm not sure we're being asked to follow the High Strategos through the streets of Oppara. I expect the work needs to be done in the halls of the Senate, don't you think?" Muri shrugs his shoulders briskly. "I would be happy to join you for an evening walk, if there's time, and you don't mind my company."
Muri tosses a square of cheese to Underfoot, who scrambles to complete the poor throw.
"So, from what I know of Martella, she's resented by her family. I worry that she's trying to prove herself, somehow. Climbing the ladder, she might step on fingers. Are we alright with what's being asked of us?" The halfling looks to the others, keenly interested in hearing them out. He can't place it, but he feels something akin to approval for the individuals occupying the same room as he. They seem to be decent people, on first impression, but he knows better than to leave the surface unscratched. If this group is well selected, does Martella get the nod, or does Petnik?
Anselm eyes his new halfling friend. "I wonder, what future do you envision for Taldor? Do you at times fancy what the Crown might do differently once the Scion of Aroden passes on?" He directs his words at Muri, but glances at the rest of the group.
"Not that I would hasten him—Shelyn bless him—or our other elders to meet the Gray Lady." He nods respectfully at Mama D and K'Aldrian. "But winter must one day turn to spring. The artful gardener chooses new flowers to seed."
"Of course," K'Aldrian bows stiffly. "I assumed that."
And his mind works on his own mission, trying to devise a strategy for uncovering where his targets sway.
Know (Local) Duke Centimus
Know (Local) Countess Abrielle Pace
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"But of course, I will aid you where I can...but I do not yet know your name. I am Major K'Aldrian Kort, formerly of the First Army of Taldan Defense, now retired. And you are...?" K'Aldrian extends a hand to shake a warm, if stilted, greeting. "I am new to all this. I am capable. But still, I will not overpromise anything. But I will try to help."
Kamari sets down the half eaten truffle, makes sure her hands are clean, and bows in response to the military man. She takes his hand and shakes it stiffly--this must be the military way--"Well met, Major. I am Kamari Everly of Oppara, formerly of no where else, and lacking any titles. I have not seen Maheto or Qadiran or, wel, but people travel from the remotest lands to Oppara so I hope I have at least a sense of the world. I don't know the Duke, but I'm familiar with the Countess."
A countess and member of the senate from the western borders of Taldor, Abrielle Pace is known to seek advancement by any means available.
- - -
- - -
- - -
"Oh, I'm not sure we're being asked to follow the High Strategos through the streets of Oppara. I expect the work needs to be done in the halls of the Senate, don't you think?" Muri shrugs his shoulders briskly. "I would be happy to join you for an evening walk, if there's time, and you don't mind my company."
Kamari considers the halfling's words. "You're probably right. I've never travelled the halls of power." At least not in the daylight. "However, I suspect that not all the work that matters happens in the Senate proper."
- - -
"Kamari, I know that a good seamstress is a treasure rarely shared.
Kamari brightens at the opportunity to be of assistance no matter how small and that at least one other in the room knows the value of people.
"I am sorry for your loss, but will gladly share my treasure with the understanding that these two dresses are mine--although I can only afford the one right now." Kamari goes on to describe them in great detail. "Other wonders fill Mistress Betzina's shop though. And the woman herself is a marvel. If there is nothing to your liking, I'm sure she could have something ready within the day. She is a kind woman and I have already worn the dresses I desire even though she knew I could not afford them at the time. They will require little in the way of alterations."
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Anselm eyes his new halfling friend. "I wonder, what future do you envision for Taldor? Do you at times fancy what the Crown might do differently once the Scion of Aroden passes on?" He directs his words at Muri, but glances at the rest of the group.
Kamari tries to get the measure of the young noble who speaks of so many people and places, but seems to have not really seen much of the world. She pushes aside the bit of her that is jealous of his experiences in the world her mother must have inhabited.
"It is not just the Crown, but all of Taldor that I hope to see break free of the shackles of primogeniture and other antiquated biases. The Queen might lead the way for her people and open the eyes of those who have been too afraid to see the world for what it really is, a palette of so many colors and textures that anything that can be imagined can be breathed into existence."
"You are certainly determined, Lady Lotheed. I am hopeful our meeting will lead to good things, but you're asking some of us to, well, do dishonorable things. Fly on a wall, listening in, that's ok, I guess. You're asking Anselm to spread a lie, and you're asking Elen to spoil wine with a needle. These actions, does Eutropia know what's being done to support her claim to the throne? I mean, once you ask someone to tamper with wine, doesn't it become easier the next time to ask someone to poison?"
"Are you suggesting I don’t know the difference between a family squabble over the quality of one’s wine cellar and killing a noble with poison?” she smiles, lingering over the moment, but there is some steel to it. ”But you are correct. I am asking you to step outside the bounds of the strictly acceptable behavior. There is however quite a distance between what I am asking you to do, and evil. I shall never ask you to do evil.”
”Putting Princess Eutropia on the throne is important, and I’m not asking for blind obedience. If there’s something in your tasks that you feel you cannot do, see if another will swap tasks with you. Or perhaps there’s another way to provide the same result - give a suggestion and I’ll consider it.”
She lingers for any further questions or suggestions before departing, leaving you alone.
[ ... Sabotage? ... ] Elen looks crestfallen at her assignment, but nonetheless takes the syringe.
Elen looks toward Anselm as she approaches the group.
"I would be lying if I said I did not miss the forests, hills, springs and waterfalls of my homeland, but I do love the bustling city of Oppara, her street cafés, its arts and achitecture as well. It's beautiful. I have family here, and come to visit as often as I am able."
She smiles at his pin. "That's gorgeous."
She looks toward Kort.
"My cousin was a merchant in New Oppara, and fell in love with one of the Opparian soldiers. He came here with her to settle. It is through her military cohorts that I have heard of you and your stalwart bravery."
She looks at everyone.
"I will aid you all in whatever little way I can."
"So, from what I know of Martella, she's resented by her family. I worry that she's trying to prove herself, somehow. Climbing the ladder, she might step on fingers. Are we alright with what's being asked of us?"
"I don't much like destroying anything at all," she says, holding up the syringe and dangling it ruefully. "Maybe we can just replace it with an actual forgery."