The manticore body is rather massive, weighing in over 1,000 pounds, and would require horses and some sort of structure that can hold the weight to transport it. Though the dogs continue to bark at the beast, they’ll be of little help carrying it. As it is, two of you will be dragging/carrying the head, while the tail and spikes can be carried by others.
“Tis a good thing you were captured, my good lad. Else the beast here had its way with you. Let’s get you fully patched up, now.” Anselm taps him with the wand again.
Surprised at the healing, Moffis blinks a few times. Still in shock you expect, but slowly coming around to the idea that he’s safe now. He looks at the Purple Finch for support and she shrugs simply.
He speaks up, ”But my lords, if you return me I’ll assuredly be locked up again, having been found you see.” His words carry that tone that says, Don’t you understand?
Kort is pleased to see that Moffis is fully healed, knowing to never leave a man to unnecessarily suffer.
"You've done fine, Moffis. Don't you worry. Your bravery will be noted when we tell this tale," Kort tries to pick up the man's confidence.
"Come now, is it time for us to return? Have we won the hunt in more ways than one?" Kort asks stiffly, relying on his cane to stand. "We should get back to celebrate our victory."
Moffis isn’t sure what part of the story he’ll play, from a nobles perspective, but he tries to put a brave face on it, ”Y-yes, my lord.”
Anselm takes out a dagger, looking between it and the manticore's body. He considers what he might know about dismembering such a creature.
Anselm leading the way with a few lucky cuts, you manage to dismember the beast, build a simple travois for the massive head, collect the other things, and prepare to depart this area of the forest.
“What were you locked up for, Moffis? Were you not to be paid a tidy sum?” Anselm tries to seem kindly while his hands are covered in blood.
Kort seems similarly confused as if missing something.
”Yes, please explain. I was told that you were paid or volunteered for this task. Is that not the case?”
Kamari nods at the questions and waits for answers. She also checks on the Purple Finch's reaction to see if she knew the truth. She's a bit skeptical of them both at this point.
“What were you locked up for, Moffis? Were you not to be paid a tidy sum?” Anselm tries to seem kindly while his hands are covered in blood.
”Yes, please explain. I was told that you were paid or volunteered for this task. Is that not the case?”
Moffis looks uneasy at having spoken at all, but the Purple Finch nods him on. He explains he’s in the middle of a 30 day sentence in the stocks for selling sour butter to the Count. He was ‘volunteered’ for this as a way to get out of his remaining sentence.
He’s heard there’s a reward for folk who remain hidden, but he doesn’t think they pay out if he’s captured. Hard to know the truth of it - he’s scared and ill informed. A peasant’s life.
You’re less sure about the Purple Finch. She likely knew the truth, and if you think back to her responses to the party this morning, she did somewhat uneasily dodge questions about the hunt. Seems to you more likely that she was lying then (or at least obscuring the reality behind a pleasant facade), rather than now, but you’re not certain.
- - -
Kort considers what this all means.
”Selling curled butter?” Kort sniffs stiffly. ”Well. Harrumpf.” He doesn’t have much experience in things like this, but in the military, rules are rules, and that sometimes might be quite harsh.
”Well, no matter. You’ve completed the task no matter what. And you almost paid with your life. We’ll see that you get paid appropriately. Now, if you would explain exactly why you tried to sell spoilt butter, that would be nice.”
"Moffis, Finch, it is not our way to humiliate you. As I see it, we have a duty to protect your well being. To improve the lot of everyone in these lands. Anything you say will stay between us."
He nods at Kort.
"I imagine the Count demands only the best of Meratt's dairies. All of the best, perhaps?"
Kamari fiddles with one of the thorns of the manticore wondering if it might be made into a knife.
”You’ve completed the task no matter what.”
”No, wait! --” She turns to Moffis. ”You said `30 days in the stocks’ for selling sour butter? But,” she shakes her head, ”that seems harsh to begin with! Then, to subject you to near death to get out of the other half of your already harsh sentence?!” she asks incredulously. Still, the Count seems capable of such sadistic behavior -- couldn’t put it past him or his Gul...
She turns to Purple Finch.
”What is going on, here?”
She nods as Anselm tries to reassure the pair, but frowns slightly when he mentions dairy.
Please don't tell us it's about dairy!
”Selling curled butter?” Kort sniffs stiffly. ”Well. Harrumpf.” He doesn’t have much experience in things like this, but in the military, rules are rules, and that sometimes might be quite harsh.
”But it wasn’t sir! I swear, it was fine when I delivered it!” Moffis protests his innocence in the deed.
”Well, no matter. You’ve completed the task no matter what. And you almost paid with your life. We’ll see that you get paid appropriately.”
He nods, gulping, wondering what it means that he’ll get paid ‘appropriately’. He remains quiet as he walks along with you, doing his share of the carrying when called upon.
"Moffis, Finch, it is not our way to humiliate you. As I see it, we have a duty to protect your well being. To improve the lot of everyone in these lands. Anything you say will stay between us."
Moffis still looks troubled, but on the walk the Purple Finch talks to him and tries to convince him it’ll be OK - though she doesn’t sound too sure herself.
Kamari fiddles with one of the thorns of the manticore wondering if it might be made into a knife.
She turns to Purple Finch.
”What is going on, here?”
The Purple Finch looks uneasy, and clearly doesn’t want to brush aside the curtain and show you how the sausage is made. But Elen is insistent and the two performers have developed something of a rapport with their music together.
She frowns, ”The Count has had some difficulty obtaining ‘volunteers’ for the hunt ever since Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava has joined the hunt for the Count, oh, about three years now. No one has died,” she hurriedly assures, ”but those he hunts are sometimes wounded. The Count had to increase the pay to 50gp, and, this year, took, ah, additional steps to ensure fresh prey.”
She makes it clear she’s not happy about this, but it’s the way of nobles, and there’s really nothing that can be done about it. She walks on silently, leading the dogs, or rather being pulled a bit by them.
You continue to walk back to the Palace of Birdsong. Any further questions?
Anselm listens as Moffis pleads innocence, weighing the man's veracity.
Not that he would begrudge the man some amount of hedging – the man evidently has little reason to trust nobles. He continues his efforts to build trust.
"Lord Lotheed-Casava's... disposition... is known to us. And that of his uncle. I am sorry. I will do what I can to ensure the end result is a good one for you, Moffis. I would ask that you not say very much about our encounter with the Lash, until we've sung your praises — and we shall!" He puts his hand on the man's shoulder and gives a reassuring squeeze. "By the way, where do you reside? Have you other milk products for sale? I am especially a fan of cheese and yogurt."
Kamari nods at Anselm's proposed course of action.
She also imagines him with a pair of the manticore thorns on his head like a pair of bull horns and giggles to herself.
"I'm sure you are innocent, Moffis. What is your usual trade, if you don't mind me asking, Moffis?" Kort asks, wondering if the problem here is laziness or just bad luck.
* * *
On the way back, Kort canes over to Ser Anselm. He tries to keep pace with the long striding human.
"My Ser Anselm. You might be the best of us with versa and words, might be best that you speak of our victory over the Iron Lash, and our rescue of brave Moffis. I think that might be best."
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M'Della hesitates to break in to the conversation, what with all the talk about her terrible relatives, but well...
"would anyone mind if we stay her for a bit? There is this spell, you see. I've never used it, but I've been preparing it lately, in case we needed it, you see. And the manticore is here and all..." Realizing she is beginning to ramble, she straightens her shoulders and tries again.
"I need an hour here with the manticore, to attempt to create a map to it's lair. Can we spare the time?"
Anselm listens with appreciation. "That would be wonderful magic, indeed! Would it be possible to take a piece of the creature, and create a map from it later? I believe we are in a race, are we not?"
” oh, yes we are, and winning may be a treasure in itself. Let me check my notes to see if that will work.”
”Yes, we can spare the time!” Kort seems very intrigued by Mama’s offer to do magic to find lairs. ”Who knows what we will find there?”
"Lord Lotheed-Casava's... disposition... is known to us. And that of his uncle. I am sorry. I will do what I can to ensure the end result is a good one for you, Moffis. I would ask that you not say very much about our encounter with the Lash, until we've sung your praises — and we shall!" He puts his hand on the man's shoulder and gives a reassuring squeeze. "By the way, where do you reside? Have you other milk products for sale? I am especially a fan of cheese and yogurt."
"I'm sure you are innocent, Moffis. What is your usual trade, if you don't mind me asking, Moffis?" Kort asks, wondering if the problem here is laziness or just bad luck.
Moffis is quite wary of Anselm’s overtures, but he answers the man’s questions well enough though he shudders a bit at the physical contact. ”I live outside Voinaris my lords. I have a few cows, and sell milk and butter to all comers. A little cheese sure, though there are others who do more of that.” He walks glumly on, unsure of what’s to come when you reach the Palace.
"I need an hour here with the manticore, to attempt to create a map to it's lair. Can we spare the time?"
Mama D, you must choose the scale of the map when creating it, opting between nearby (e.g., one or two dungeon levels), local (e.g., a valley or community), or broad (e.g., a country or larger). Nearby is unlikely, just to help you out a bit.
As I see it, the casting time includes the ritual skinning of the animal to create the map. You can come back if you don’t want to cast it now, but keep in mind you must do so within 24 hours, and it’s an hour and a half to get here from the Palace - if you can find it again.
It’s around 1pm now and you're an hour and a half from the Palace. You’re expected back by 4pm, though dinner doesn’t start until after 5pm. So you do have some time to carve up the manticore and still get back in time. The delay will likely cost you the win, though you’re not sure how quickly the other teams will get back. If asked, the Purple Finch mentions this is the hardiest terrain of the four directions, and so she’d be surprised if you won in any event. One year, the winner was back in two hours!
"Well, then. Can I help you with the skinning?" Anselm wipes some of the blood off of his dagger as he prepares for more delicate cutting.
”Well, then. If we are not to win with speed, then there is not much rush, is there?”
Mama D smiles at both Anselm and The Good Major, encouraging all who might like to help to do so.
”Now, my notes are very clear that I must wield the blade, I can use as much help as possible keeping the area taut, so as to get as good a map as possible. What say you? A map of the local area should do the trick, if there is a trick to be done, that is. “
Kort considers the Iron Lash a better prize than that of the hunt. He also draws his dagger, and will help carve (though he really doesn't know what he is doing).
"Yes, this story will be more valuable than the win a silly hunt. Come, M'Della, let us carve us a map to put on our wall," Kort agrees stiffly with Anselm.
Mama D prepares a map from a portion of the manticore’s hide, sprinkling diamond dust over it as she casts the spell. She gains a map of the region with an ‘X’ deep in the northern fringe of the forest, many miles away. Certainly not something you can address with the time you have available. But you have a map, and its unlikely to be a feeding spot as remote as it is. It’s probably the creature’s lair.
You make your way back, slowly with the head of the Iron Lash dragging on the make-shift travois behind you. The Purple Finch suggests you head to the house proper, to check in and report your success at finding Moffis - as well as to show off your catch. From there she can arrange a loaner wagon, with Myrana and Virgil at the helm naturally, to take the remains into Lotheedar to the taxidermist.
”I understand the sooner they can get to work, the easier it is to do the work, so the better the quality.” she suggests. She doesn’t know what it will cost naturally, but an advance of say 50gp should cover it.
You reach the Palace of Birdsong at last, returning about 4pm, just an hour before dinner, slowed by the soon to be taxidermied remains you drag behind you. The Purple Finch runs somewhat ahead at the very end, delivering the dogs back to their minders with some relief. She then quickly corrals a few servants to assist the party the last few hundred yards with their haul.
Most folks are still milling about before changing for dinner - waiting for you as you’re the last team back. Baron Okerra strides forward, parting the servants and others crowding around you like a boat in water as he joins you, ”I say, that looks rather like a manticore head - only larger. You have been hunting haven’t you!” he laughs supportively at your catch.
- - -
Anselm may now tell the story, and roll a single Diplomacy check which I’ll apply against each noble to influence them once as if it were a social round. You may all speak as well, adding your own perspectives to the storytelling. Though only one roll from Anselm is needed I may apply circumstance bonuses for good stories from everyone.
Further, by mounting the head either in Stachys (if the Mayor permits) or in the Betony Estate, you gain a loyalty point from a somewhat relieved populous.
Anselm happily contributes to the taxidermy, and quietly suggests to his companions on the side, "Perhaps we could also make a similar contribution to Moffis and Finch for their efforts. They played no small role, with as much warning of danger as we had."
At the palace, he gives a slightly embarrassed smile at Baron Okerra's words. "It was quite an adventure, to be sure. And we have this good man to credit for finding the Iron Lash." He motions Moffis forward, beaming at him reassuringly. "We were hot on his heals when Moffis spotted the manticore. Before we caught sight of it——and rather than let it attack us——he called to it. Unarmed, all on his own, he bravely stood before one of the most wicked beasts in these lands."
Anselm holds his hands out, ready to lead an applause. "Baroness Voinum, I cannot wait to meet more of the good people of your hold. Will you allow us to escort him home after the jubilee?"
Presently, he takes out one of the beast's barbs and continues. "And what a beast! As you can see from the tears in our clothing——though not our flesh, thank Shelyn——the Iron Lash's maw and claws could have easily killed the lot of us. If it had not been for the unerring blade of Lady Elen's glaive, or the pinpoint precision of Lady Everly's rapier. And Lord Major Kort, whose dead eye is assuredly blessed by Erastil himself. And our guide, the Purple Finch, who stood bravely beside us, cheering us on to victory. An excellent good hunt, indeed."
Sense Motive
Kort says little as Anselm begins to share the story, a true story, of Moffis and the Iron Lash.
He celebrates and claps appropriately as Anselm orates, as appropriate...and stiffly.
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”...those [Lord Tidus] hunts are sometimes wounded. The Count had to increase the pay to 50gp, and, this year, took, ah, additional steps to ensure fresh prey.”
”’Fresh’ prey”? For who?! Elen wonders, looking over Moffis head to toe. He doesn’t look all that fresh to me. What would a butter merchant have by way of survival skills outside a game of hide and seek? Surely WE were the prey for this creature!
”I see,” she lies. ”But this time, someone would have surely died were it not for us and our timing!”
"would anyone mind if we stay her for a bit? There is this spell, you see. I've never used it, but I've been preparing it lately, in case we needed it, you see. And the manticore is here and all..."”I believe we are in a race, are we not?"”I’d be surprised if you won in any event. One year, the winner was back in two hours!”
”Well, of course not. Not every team is going to run into Iron Lashes of Meratt County. Outside of that, this isn’t much of a contest worth winning anyway. Take as much time as you need, Mama D.”
Elen helps in whatever preparation is needed, and when back to town contributes to the Taxidermy-Moffis-Finch Fund.
”I say, that looks rather like a manticore head - only larger. You have been hunting haven’t you!”
Elen manages a weak smile. Well, you know -- with all THIS going on we decided to take the time to, you know…
She stands quietly, waiting for Anselm to finish then adds, ”And don’t forget yourself, Anselm, you threw around quite the wind and risked your life to help keep us going.”
Anselm holds his hands out, ready to lead an applause. "Baroness Voinum, I cannot wait to meet more of the good people of your hold. Will you allow us to escort him home after the jubilee?"
The applause is polite for Moffis, but in earnest for the party as there are smiles all around. Even that scoundrel Lord Titus is impressed, though he quickly hides it with a scowl and wanders off with his cadre.
The Baroness, thin lipped as ever, manages a smile of sorts, ”Of course, if that is your wish.” she agrees, sealing Moffis’ fate with yours - and she even seems pleased by it.
Presently, he takes out one of the beast's barbs and continues. "And what a beast! As you can see from the tears in our clothing - though not our flesh, thank Shelyn - the Iron Lash's maw and claws could have easily killed the lot of us. If it had not been for the unerring blade of Lady Elen's glaive, or the pinpoint precision of Lady Everly's rapier. And Lord Major Kort, whose dead eye is assuredly blessed by Erastil himself. And our guide, the Purple Finch, who stood bravely beside us, cheering us on to victory. An excellent good hunt, indeed."
The story is well told, with a small addition by Elen for Anselm’s modesty, and you successfully influence Count Lotheed, Baron Okerra, Dame Crabbe, Baroness Voinum, and Mayor Piscum each once!
The Count doesn’t even seem to care about Moffis, his interest lies with the magical manticore as he asks you how it fought, how it flew - for surely nothing so heavy could hope to fly on wings alone! The servants also are happy - the Iron Lash of Meratt has killed dozens from the region over the years.
In the conversations that follow, you learn that Titus won the hunt by capturing his own quarry and a neighbor’s as well, hobbled by an arrow to the thigh. He receives a jade bear for his victory at a small ceremony. But, before you can, ah, congratulate him on his win, it’s time to prepare for supper. Naturally that means another change in clothes!
The Purple Finch escorts you back to your cabin and plays lightly outside while you clean off the forest and ichor of battle and change - with or without servants to assist you as you wish. After supper is the Masquerade, including performances and other entertainment - some by the nobles! You know that your own Mallë-o i Otos Elen is planning to perform accompanied by the Purple Finch after supper (and after another change of clothes) to open the Masquerade.
Let me know if you have any particular preparations for dinner and we’ll proceed.
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Kort notes and congratulates the winners...though others won battles, he knows who won the war. He will return to his chambers soon after to prepare for dinner.
Internally, he's excited for the results of the hunt. Externally, he'd much rather be finding the lair with Mama D than attending the dinner.
He knows he's old, and experiences are worth more than 'honorous' affairs...a life changing event is worth more than dinner with a Duke, Count, or Queen. So his internal desires lay elsewhere, with exploration and experiences over masques and balls.
He does, however, prepare for the dinner as appropriate.
Kamari eases into a bath and ponders the day's events. Dumb luck to run into the manticore or just played for dumb.
A bit more relaxed, Kamari dons her dinner clothes and makes sure her black swan outfit is ready for the masquerade.
Learning upon who won the ‘contest’ and how, Elen is neither impressed or surprised. Happy to be rushed off to ready for dinner, she complies and heads off to prepare herself for the Big Evening with no congratulatory words for Lord Tidus.
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Anselm does his best to reassure Moffis before returning to freshen up. "Finch, would you ensure that Moffis has comfortable lodgings this night? I'll gladly cover any expenses."
He lays out his costume, complete with antlered headdress and fey wings before putting on his dinner attire. Then he says a prayer to Shelyn in sketch form: The dairyman who led a manticore to his doom.
Anselm does his best to reassure Moffis before returning to freshen up. "Finch, would you ensure that Moffis has comfortable lodgings this night? I'll gladly cover any expenses."
”He can stay in the servants quarters my Lord. I’ll see to it.”
You are guided back to the main house, and back to the enormous ballroom where again, tables have been set for supper.
The evening’s repast is a heartier fare suitable for ‘mighty’ hunters. As before, all food is paraded before the guests before preparation. A small orchestra plays during dinner, performing a variety of popular symphonies from great Taldan composers like Richilo Sampolo, Gwenavive of Mut, and Nalappho. The meal concludes with large slices of jubilee pie.
As your Purple Finch is performing, she has appointed another, somewhat junior, servant to take care of your needs during dinner. His costume is, well, muddled. It’s hard to know what he’s meant to be, and he doesn’t like talking about it, but his outfit is rather brown, layered on more brown, and a little dark. Still, he does what he can to ensure your meals are hot and tasty.
Once again, people meander the tables between the waves of food to say hello and chat up neighbors they may only see a few times a season - or even less! During dinner, you all have two social rounds in which to influence your new neighbors.
Nobles
Count Bartelby Lotheed, Steward of the Palace of Birdsome
Baron Nicolaus Okerra, Popular local noble and soldier, with a strict sense of honor
Dame Crabbe (and her daughter Sepsinia), Tribune of Moost Village, she’s looking for a suitor for her daughter
Baroness Legte Adella Voinum, Retired member of the Taldan Phalanx, she’s known as the local grump
Honorary Tribune Onora Piscum, For the purposes of the event, she’s still Honorary Tribune of Stachys
Other notables in attendance
Earl Tander Merkonous, Wealthy merchant from Moda - UNAVAILABLE
Lady Lucretzia Marthane, A distant cousin visiting from Cassomir
Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava, A cousin of the Count, he is a braggart and bully
Sir Gul Gusairne, A half-elven man who has served the Lotheed family for two generations now as their seneschal
Duchess Veleto Lotheed, the wife of the absent Duke Lotheed - UNAVAILABLE
There are no area or room challenges. You have two things to Discover for each noble (strengths and weaknesses with strengths above weaknesses in the chart). You may also make Sense Motive checks to discover what you need to influence them (not on the chart, but DC 13).
When you know what you need to influence them, you may begin doing so. Each success is tallied. When you reach the magic number (4-7 in most cases but some are harder than even that!), their Diplomatic Attitude shifts once in your favor. The goal of course is to get everyone you can to be Helpful so you can rely on them to assist you in your goals. Do not expect to achieve that in the next two days however…
There are benefits to visiting the ‘other notables’ and using a social round to do so. However, those engagements are simple Diplomacy checks and do not fall under the social round mechanic outlined above. Other than possible information or other role playing benefits, there is no advantage to spending more than one social round with the ‘other notables’.
- - -
Anselm continues to, well, court the Baroness throughout dinner. "And how did you fare today, Baroness?" He listens intently, attempting to draw her out more fully while ensuring she does not want for wine.
Kamari spies Baron Okerra. Sure he was among a pile of bodies the last time she saw him, she approaches a bit cautiously.
"Baron, you are looking much better since the Senate. I'm glad to see you've recovered. My friends and I have acquired titles and land since that horrible night and are making a bit of a fresh start out at Betony Estate. We're still tidying up the place, but we'd be happy to host you once things are in order."
"Perhaps we could speak more openly there about the state of the world without so many other people about."
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Kort taps his cane lightly as he walks through the event, a red wine in his off hand. He nods stiffly to those he knows. And he nods equally stiffly to those he does not know. And evermore stiffly to those who he dislikes or dislike the party. He is a man of alliances and war, not of petty grievances and ballroom bickering.
Kort enjoins Anselm in working on the Baroness.
"Yes, please, I would hear about your day...and because you might not believe ours," he begins, but waits for a response before continuing. "You have heard of the Iron Last, have you? But you might know not its history..."
Know (History, Aroden)
"...which is unusual considering the features of the terrain. Most large hunters might be stymied by the lack of large prey..."
Know (Geography, Aroden)
"...and simply put, that's why Taldan cheese does not have the fungal scent, as it were."
Kamari will spend her whole time with the Baron hoping to secure not just a friend, but an ally during these troubling times.
M'Della makes her way around the room, listening as much or more as she talks. Eventually she, and a fine bottle of wine, settle near Baroness Voinum.
Discussion proves difficult at first, due to either the noise of the room, or trouble finding a suitable historical topic that suits both women.
But it has been a long day, and the Legate seems worth the effort, so M'Della tries once more to meet on common ground.
”Oh, Honorary Tribune Mayor Sheriff Onora Piscum,” Elen says, catching up to the Mayor. ”Might you know who the count utilizes as Head Gardener? I wonder what his price would be to help us redesign the streets and parks of Stachys once the time comes. I think I would like to meet them, at least.” She pauses, ”or, maybe you’d like to recommend someone?”
~~~
Elen introduces herself to Dame Crabbe and Sepsinia. Never one to be all that patient with the small talk, she pleasantly eases to the point.
”I do hear it said ‘One should avoid the overly interested ones, for often their apparent wealth and efforts at affection are no more than facades.’.
<eyeroll>. Oh, I wish I were better at reading humans.
Anselm continues to, well, court the Baroness throughout dinner. "And how did you fare today, Baroness?" He listens intently, attempting to draw her out more fully while ensuring she does not want for wine.
Oh, my men, and women I suppose, did well. Baron Okerra’s prey was captured by Lord Titus, so in a sense I came in second.” She waives her hand, as if she isn’t interested by such matters.
Instead she changes the subject and inquires about your hunt - looking, at least politely if not with actual interest, for more details in the story. She seems more interested in the battle, then the events leading up to it or the dragging back of the head.
As Anselm tops up the Baroness’ wine, she remarks, ”This is good wine, but you used to have a winery in Stachys. It made wine primarily from grapes from the Betony Estate you know. Ah, but that was good wine. I still have a few bottles. Very few.” her thin lips form into an accustomed frown.
”I’ll tell you what,” she comes to a decision, ”You get that winery going again, and I’ll send some people and supplies over to assist you with extensive infrastructure repairs. Take it to your Lords and Ladies and let me know what you decide - there’s no rush. But it would be nice to sip a bit more Betony Red.”
"Baron, you are looking much better since the Senate. I'm glad to see you've recovered. My friends and I have acquired titles and land since that horrible night and are making a bit of a fresh start out at Betony Estate. We're still tidying up the place, but we'd be happy to host you once things are in order."
"Perhaps we could speak more openly there about the state of the world without so many other people about."
The Baron smiles at seeing Kamari again though there’s a frown remembering that night, or perhaps for Kamari’s conspiratorial whisper (he’s a pretty straightforward man - not the sort to conspire). ”I’m glad you are doing well. The Betony Estate, and Stachys in general, have long been overdue for support. Let me know what you need, and I’ll see to it my artisans are made available to you - along with a small donation of raw materials as well of course.”
"Yes, please, I would hear about your day...and because you might not believe ours," he begins, but waits for a response before continuing. "You have heard of the Iron Last, have you? But you might know not its history..."
"...which is unusual considering the features of the terrain. Most large hunters might be stymied by the lack of large prey..."
"...and simply put, that's why Taldan cheese does not have the fungal scent, as it were."
”Yes, the Iron Lash of Meratt. It has been a thorn in the Count’s side, or rather of his people, for years to varying degrees. It may irritate the Count, that you did this and not someone from his own house, but it will please the people.” she says simply.
She listens to the Major’s history lesson, though she’s not sure he has it right in one or two places. Still, as he has done before, he impresses her with his description of the place - as if he’d been there himself and was describing it.
Mama D visits with Baroness Voinum as well, very popular at the moment. She struggles at first, but still finds some common ground and enjoys a brief chat about the past of Meratt County. She learns a little of some of the lesser nobles who have come and gone in the region over the last score of years or so. Quite a few! Many seem attracted by the beautiful countryside and hearty peasants, but it never seems to last for one reason or another.
”Oh, Honorary Tribune Mayor Sheriff Onora Piscum,” Elen says, catching up to the Mayor. ”Might you know who the count utilizes as Head Gardener? I wonder what his price would be to help us redesign the streets and parks of Stachys once the time comes. I think I would like to meet them, at least.” She pauses, ”or, maybe you’d like to recommend someone?”
Onora Piscum smiles and bows, ”Oh, now that you’re formally Tribunes, my honorary title has been stripped.” she pauses for a moment, smiling lightly, ”I’m actually quite relieved.” she says with some quiet surprise.
She shifts gears quickly, and gets to the point, ”Oh, I suspect poaching servants from the Count’s house would result in bad tidings, but perhaps not. The Count is often, uh, inattentive with regards to the servant class.”
”We have some fine folk in Stachys that might be suitable though. I can arrange for a few potentials to visit with you at Betony, at your convenience of course. It would be so nice to brighten up the place…” she thinks about some options.
”I do hear it said ‘One should avoid the overly interested ones, for often their apparent wealth and efforts at affection are no more than facades.’.
<eyeroll>. Oh, I wish I were better at reading humans.
Dame Crabbe will hear nothing of it, ”But if you don’t show interest child, how are they to know you’re interested! Oh, I agree, some are just dalliances, after money or title or simple conquest, but you’ve got to put yourself out there, go get what you want!” she nudges Sepsinia, trying to make the larger point.
Nobles
Count Bartelby Lotheed, Steward of the Palace of Birdsome
Baron Nicolaus Okerra, Popular local noble and soldier, with a strict sense of honor
Dame Crabbe (and her daughter Sepsinia), Tribune of Moost Village, she’s looking for a suitor for her daughter
Baroness Legte Adella Voinum, Retired member of the Taldan Phalanx, she’s known as the local grump
Honorary Tribune Onora Piscum, For the purposes of the event, she’s still Honorary Tribune of Stachys
Other notables in attendance
Earl Tander Merkonous, Wealthy merchant from Moda - UNAVAILABLE
Lady Lucretzia Marthane, A distant cousin visiting from Cassomir
Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava, A cousin of the Count, he is a braggart and bully
Sir Gul Gusairne, A half-elven man who has served the Lotheed family for two generations now as their seneschal
Duchess Veleto Lotheed, the wife of the absent Duke Lotheed - UNAVAILABLE
There are no area or room challenges. You have two things to Discover for each noble (strengths and weaknesses with strengths above weaknesses in the chart). You may also make Sense Motive checks to discover what you need to influence them (not on the chart, but DC 13).
When you know what you need to influence them, you may begin doing so. Each success is tallied. When you reach the magic number (4-7 in most cases but some are harder than even that!), their Diplomatic Attitude shifts once in your favor. The goal of course is to get everyone you can to be Helpful so you can rely on them to assist you in your goals. Do not expect to achieve that in the next two days however…
There are benefits to visiting the ‘other notables’ and using a social round to do so. However, those engagements are simple Diplomacy checks and do not fall under the social round mechanic outlined above. Other than possible information or other role playing benefits, there is no advantage to spending more than one social round with the ‘other notables’.
- - -
After dinner, guests are dismissed for an hour to retire to their rooms so they can, you guessed it, rest and change. The remainder of the jubilee is a masquerade, consisting of dancing, drinking, shows, and more.
There will be a couple acts before Lady Elen takes center stage with a dance she has created for the Jubilee, but there will be time enough for her to watch the opening act at least, before she has to prepare with the Purple Finch and their drummer.
Please let me know what preparations you wish to make, if any, and describe your costumes for the Masquerade.
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Anselm describes the battle in detail, continuing to give credit to Moffis for drawing the creature out. He describes the otherworldly troops lent to him by Shelyn, who quickly distracted the manticore from her subject. And then Elen and Kamari's rush into melee, his own tactical contributions, and the artillery provided by the Major and M'Della.
He almost spills his wine goblet when the stern woman offers to invest.
"What a kind gesture, Baroness. I should like to sample the local terroir, myself! I'll ask Mayor Sheriff Piscum if any of our former vintners remain in Stachys."
He offers a final toast before returning to the guest house. After a short rest, he begins to don his costume: A masked headdress with bejeweled antlers. A cape resembling wings with autumn leaves instead of feathers. A long coat whose suede resembles several varieties of moss.
Just before entering the ball room, Anselm hopes to summon a grig to play the leitmotif from Dreams of Verdura.
Kort listens politely to any speeches or chatter, but inwardly regrets not trying to find the lair of the Iron Lash while he had the chance. He is good at standing stiffly for hours, and does just that while leaning on his cane.
He’s decided that he’s not looking forward to the masque, but you wouldn’t know it from his stoic demeanor. He’s a soldier and will do what needs to be done.
When it is time to return, he will escort Mama D back to the rooms to change.
He has nothing special planned.
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"Thank you for your support, Baron. It is an honor to know a truly good man."
Kamari takes her leave of the Baron and prepares for the evening. She dons her long black swan dress. The midnight dark fabric flows from her neck all the way to the floor. It almost shines a bit as its many folds give the illusion of a full moon on feathers. When she holds her arms against herself, they blend almost perfectly with the rest. While nothing is revealed, the top half of the dress is still tight fitting enough to leave Kamari still feeling attractive. However, she's sure she'd never be noticed in a shadowy corner if she held still. The only real feathers in the outfit are part of the mask and wrap around the sides of her head.
When everything is in place, Kamari considers belting her rapier over it all, but settles for concealing it amongst the folds of the cloak. Satisfied with everything, Kamari will join the others to head to the masquerade.
Elen packs a fighting fan mostly for props, she hopes.
She is wearing a cape sleeved gown omber in nature, shimmering in champagne in the bodice which gradually darkens to an emerald green toward the back and shoulders. The back of her dress tapers near the waist before flaring back out slightly toward the sides to resemble the tail of a bird at rest. One side of her ruby masquerade mask is adorned with green feathers which increase in length from the bridge to the side, and light up like a rainbow when backlit.
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Mama D prepares for the masquerade, changing into a gown of black and silver, to match her hair. She enhances her domino with a cantrip, adding a bit more sparkle, for fun. She “dresses” Cuddles in a similar fashion, turning his spines into a shimmering black cloak of feathers to match his tiny mask. Once ready, she returns to the others, taking The Good Major’s arm and gives it a squeeze, “once more, into the Breech, eh, Major?”
You return to Birdsong Palace and the grand ballroom. The tables and chairs have all been pushed back to leave a large open area in the middle of the room for entertainers. But oh, the colors! The Masquerade is the high point of the Jubilee, the county’s annual party - and everyone has pulled out all the stops!!
A grig appears, somewhere not immediately obvious and, after a short consultation from Anselm flies up to the rafters and begins to play a light fiddle-styled bit of music for your entrance. And what an entrance! Wearing the finest Opparan fashion, your clothes and accoutrements, are the envy of many in the room.
Everyone is dressed in their finest of course. Regardless of the costume, the nobles are also all wearing substantial jewelry - even the dour Baroness has added large drop-pearl earrings and a diamond studded necklace to her ensemble. Funnily, at least to him and his associates, Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava comes dressed… as a boar.
Count Lotheed opens the evening’s festivities with a decently impressive fireworks display, created himself with a combination of the prestidigitation and pyrotechnics spells - and something it’s clear he’s practiced. The ooh’s and aah’s from the spectators aren’t forced as his performance is very well done with colors and noises reaching every corner of the large hall.
A production of the popular Taldor by Right follows the opening ceremonies, a dramatic retelling of Taldor’s founding by the legendary First Emperor Taldaris, performed entirely by halflings. It’s a decent performance as well. Though there are a few flubbed lines the actors get through it with aplomb and the applause at the end isn’t overly forced - for most of the attendees have seen this play every year for decades.
And then it’s time for Lady Elen’s performance…
- - -
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Funnily, at least to him and his associates, Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava comes dressed… as a boar.
Elen takes brief note of Lord Tedious's costume out of the corner of her eye. Oh, dear Shelyn! He really has no friends at all!
Moonlight gently baths the sleeping valley
Then out of nowhere comes an avalanche of malvolence
One hapless victim caught in the updraft nearly greets Sheylyn!
Were it not for the protective arms of Tillandsia usneoides!
First there was a mighty wind, followed by a wicked slash
The evil throws a franictantrum and enshrouds itself in debis
Another mighty wind, nearly ended by a vicious stab --
Grounded but alive. Blood everywhere - (sorry Sheylyn!)
Dust now settles and Dignity’s Barb rings true!
Force missiles incoming, then the Malvolence defeated!
And there was much rejoicing. The End.
Lady Elen’s dance is sublime, indeed the finest you’ve seen her do so far, and beloved by the crowd of nobles, ever seeking a fresh new talent to consume. The accompaniment is good too! The dummer keeps the beat, really all he’s there to do - shadow Elen’s steps. The Purple Finch really shines though - it’s clear she has talent and that helps buoy Elen’s already beautiful performance to new heights.
After Lady Elen, and more importantly after a few drinks, Dame Crabbe works up the nerve to contribute a surprisingly graceful Qadiran Khaleegi dance popular in her youth. Behind her others have prepared and the first half of the evening is interspersed with a wide variety of performances.
Midway through the evening, Count Lotheed announces that the ballroom has been invaded, and all guests must rush to its defense - the classic opening to a popular dance called the Dance of the Phalanx. Equal parts strategy game and formal waltz, the dance is performed on a gridded floor, and partners are allowed to select the next dance steps from a predefined list related to the music played.
Each pair of dancers cannot move into a square occupied by other dancers, and the object of the game is to force every other pair of dancers off the grid, leaving your “phalanx” in control of the “battlefield.” It’s quite the complex dance, and the nobles take to it with fierce gusto - especially, as you may imagine, Dame Crabbe.
But of course, the real purpose is to chat with your neighbors, and you all gain two final social rounds in which to do so as the evening wears on.
Nobles
Count Bartelby Lotheed, Steward of the Palace of Birdsome
Baron Nicolaus Okerra, Popular local noble and soldier, with a strict sense of honor
Dame Crabbe (and her daughter Sepsinia), Tribune of Moost Village, she’s looking for a suitor for her daughter
Baroness Legte Adella Voinum, Retired member of the Taldan Phalanx, she’s known as the local grump
Honorary Tribune Onora Piscum, For the purposes of the event, she’s still Honorary Tribune of Stachys
Other notables in attendance
Earl Tander Merkonous, Wealthy merchant from Moda - UNAVAILABLE
Lady Lucretzia Marthane, A distant cousin visiting from Cassomir
Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava, A cousin of the Count, he is a braggart and bully
Sir Gul Gusairne, A half-elven man who has served the Lotheed family for two generations now as their seneschal
Duchess Veleto Lotheed, the wife of the absent Duke Lotheed - UNAVAILABLE
There are no area or room challenges. You have two things to Discover for each noble (strengths and weaknesses with strengths above weaknesses in the chart). You may also make Sense Motive checks to discover what you need to influence them (not on the chart, but DC 13).
When you know what you need to influence them, you may begin doing so. Each success is tallied. When you reach the magic number (4-7 in most cases but some are harder than even that!), their Diplomatic Attitude shifts once in your favor. The goal of course is to get everyone you can to be Helpful so you can rely on them to assist you in your goals. Do not expect to achieve that in the next two days however…
There are benefits to visiting the ‘other notables’ and using a social round to do so. However, those engagements are simple Diplomacy checks and do not fall under the social round mechanic outlined above. Other than possible information or other role playing benefits, there is no advantage to spending more than one social round with the ‘other notables’.
- - -
Anselm is quick to invite Baron Okerra to be his shieldmister. "I would be honored if you would accompany for a while across the battlefield, Baron. I feel I've neglected our long acquaintance since the jubilee started, but hope I might amend that."
At some point, he crosses paths with Lady Lucretzia Marthane.
"Milady, I trust you have found the jubilee engaging? I hope you will come to Stachys. Our people have stood strong through hard times, but I hope our efforts may help improve their fortunes — and make it a truly enjoyable place to visit."
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Kort bedecks himself in the masque that was set for him: that of Corporal Carbuncle. He doesn't love the outfit, but will wear but wears the center-of-forehead diadem and faux be-gem'd cloak with some stiff formality. He would play the Carbuncle this night, and look the part. And then he will don his pointy nosed masque.
This creature has a long tongue, but no teeth. Why would I know that? I just do.
Kort ends up being grateful for the mask, for the hides his dropped jaw at Elen's performance. He claps stiffly and appropriately.
Wonderful. Simply wonderful.
Buoyed by Elen's performance, the good Major tries his luck with Dame Crabbe again. He's had some success and certainly some failure, but he is resolute. He will clack on his cane on the way over to the Dame.
"Dame Crabbe, I have not seen that dance in a while. Delightful, a Qadiran Khaleegi, I believe?" Kort begins admirably. "I have spent some time on the Qadiran border, and have seen some things..."
Know (Local)
Kort will describe some of the foods, customs, or general lore that he's picked up from the region.
"And what do you think of the Qadiran government? Surely, they cannot keep it up much longer? And then it will be time for revolution, don't you think?" Kort will begin to ply her with his thoughts on the Qadiran gentry.
Know (Nobility)
Anselm is quick to invite Baron Okerra to be his shieldmister. "I would be honored if you would accompany for a while across the battlefield, Baron. I feel I've neglected our long acquaintance since the jubilee started, but hope I might amend that.”
”My Lord.” The Baron smiles and joins you on the dance floor. ”Well we are nearest neighbors, and I have been speaking with many of your fellow-lords and ladies over the last days. I think I understand what you’re here to do.” he smiles at the thought, but doesn’t expand beyond saying, ”One must do what one can for the people of course!”
At some point, he crosses paths with Lady Lucretzia Marthane.
"Milady, I trust you have found the jubilee engaging? I hope you will come to Stachys. Our people have stood strong through hard times, but I hope our efforts may help improve their fortunes — and make it a truly enjoyable place to visit."
”Oh, it’s always lovely to visit my cousin.” she gestures into the throng of people, one of whom she must be related to, but you don’t quite catch it in the excitement of the dance, ”I have heard little of Stachys. What do you do there, what are your industries?” she wonders, perhaps idly, just making small talk.
Buoyed by Elen's performance, the good Major tries his luck with Dame Crabbe again. He's had some success and certainly some failure, but he is resolute. He will clack on his cane on the way over to the Dame.
"Dame Crabbe, I have not seen that dance in a while. Delightful, a Qadiran Khaleegi, I believe?" Kort begins admirably. "I have spent some time on the Qadiran border, and have seen some things..."
Kort will describe some of the foods, customs, or general lore that he's picked up from the region.
”Oh, my good Lord-Major,” she replies breathlessly, still catching her breath after such a tumultuous dance! ”I do so love the Qadiran style - their energy! But it does leave one so out of air at the end of it! Whew!” She mostly listens, an unusual occurrence for her, as you note some things you’ve seen. She interjects though, as is her nature, as her breathing returns. Apparently she spent some time on the borderlands growing up and has a certain fondness for it.
"And what do you think of the Qadiran government? Surely, they cannot keep it up much longer? And then it will be time for revolution, don't you think?" Kort will begin to ply her with his thoughts on the Qadiran gentry.
”Oh I hope they remain stable. We’ve got a shaky peace, and with our own succession unclear, it would be a bad time for Qadira to be a problem! Why, I’m not sure the queen could handle a war so soon, if she were to be monarch. The High Strategos seems a better choice if that’s he case, does he not?”
You don’t get the sense she’s espousing either position. Just fishing to see where you side.
Nobles
Count Bartelby Lotheed, Steward of the Palace of Birdsome
Baron Nicolaus Okerra, Popular local noble and soldier, with a strict sense of honor - HELPFUL
Dame Crabbe (and her daughter Sepsinia), Tribune of Moost Village, she’s looking for a suitor for her daughter
Baroness Legte Adella Voinum, Retired member of the Taldan Phalanx, she’s known as the local grump
Honorary Tribune Onora Piscum, For the purposes of the event, she’s still Honorary Tribune of Stachys
Other notables in attendance
Earl Tander Merkonous, Wealthy merchant from Moda - UNAVAILABLE
Lady Lucretzia Marthane, A distant cousin visiting from Cassomir
Lord Titus Lotheed-Casava, A cousin of the Count, he is a braggart and bully
Sir Gul Gusairne, A half-elven man who has served the Lotheed family for two generations now as their seneschal
Duchess Veleto Lotheed, the wife of the absent Duke Lotheed - UNAVAILABLE
There are no area or room challenges. You have two things to Discover for each noble (strengths and weaknesses with strengths above weaknesses in the chart). You may also make Sense Motive checks to discover what you need to influence them (not on the chart, but DC 13).
When you know what you need to influence them, you may begin doing so. Each success is tallied. When you reach the magic number (4-7 in most cases but some are harder than even that!), their Diplomatic Attitude shifts once in your favor. The goal of course is to get everyone you can to be Helpful so you can rely on them to assist you in your goals. Do not expect to achieve that in the next two days however…
There are benefits to visiting the ‘other notables’ and using a social round to do so. However, those engagements are simple Diplomacy checks and do not fall under the social round mechanic outlined above. Other than possible information or other role playing benefits, there is no advantage to spending more than one social round with the ‘other notables’.
- - -