Regardless of your specific response, she’s friendly and relatively engaging, though she keeps a wary eye on the Princess, seated not too far away, in case she is summoned.
You have learned her weakness - She prizes those with magic above others.
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla (weakness learned)
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner (weakness learned)
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (3/3r)(reroll)
Kamari - Martella Lotheed has one more request, but later (1/3r)(reroll)
Major Kort - Countess Abrielle Pace still to be identified (sense motive or perception after influenced at least once) (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (2/3r)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
- - -
”Oh, I do indeed, though I must admit to getting a late start to the Art. It is a long, boring story, “
But she begins to tell it, none the less, more or less.
It seems many of my Senator friends would agree that it is time for a change. A very strange stance from some of the stodgier members too.”
"How is it strange your Grace? I'm new to the senate and still learning the ways of its people, but surely even the ones most set in their ways must see what's before them. Surely you are helping them to see that."
Kamari looks about for some oil to assist the Duke with his squeaky chair.
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Elen retrieves her little notepad and heads for the senate floor where she espies Anselm conversing with Kastner.
Sporting a shiner from where one of Trant's goons hit her, she passes by Anselm and Lord Kastner. "Good evening, Gentlemen," she says, curtsying. Then, trying to hand wave away any concern about her bruise she says -- quietly slamming her right fist into her left palm toward the end, "Oh, oh -- it's nothing. You should see the cad who hit me."
She winks then continues on her merry way back to the Gallery, where she aggressively avoids Wyssilka the Fantabulous and approaches Countess A. Pace.
"I hear there is a motion for consideration in the senate to ban all mushrooms of the P. Inky species in the city proper. They leave such stains in the streets and all."
Fairly certain the Countess did not quite understand the nuances of her bluffed point and what it was supposed to infer about the impact of the ban on Western Taldor, Elen quickly excuses herself to check in on the ever so humble High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus in the Arcade. She pulls out her notepad and pencil, and purposefully strides past his collection of guards right up to him.
"Oh! High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus! Please! Have you a moment? As you know, the Society of Equestrian Artists has designated you as the *highest skilled in* and *authority of* the art of horseback riding. If you please, Sir, they have but three short questions they would like you to answer for a feature they're working on publishing in the next release of Dressage Today." She smiles, bats her impossibly long eyelashes and looks hopeful.
Returning to the courtyard, she approaches Lady Morilla.
"Lady, there are rumors in the streets that some senators are collaborating and devising ways to block votes or otherwise interfere with fair elections. We must do whatever we can to foil and quash any such attempt should these rumors prove to be true."
- - -
He does enjoy talking about the various modifications and such he’s made to his wheelchair, including a heavier wheel for travel outside the city. He hopes to someday make it to Goka, where his great-grandfather originally hailed from and where he still has distant family. But also brakes, locks (for when he’s just sitting), fancy and rare woods, scroll work all grace his chair - the thing really is a work of art.
At the culmination of the discussion he gives you a battered business card, ”This is for Lady Nelidwyth Piblet, a gnome I’ve had knighted for her service to the state. She can make and fix anything. You should look her up if you need something, unusual!” he smacks, lovingly, his chair, and heads off to the servants area to find some oil.
You have succeeded in completely influencing Duke Leonard Centimus, and learned of his tinkerer, who will give you 10% off her usual rates at repair or creation of oddities.
- - -
Moving on to the High Strategos, hoping for a scoop, she gets ahead of Major Kort, still dealing with the military bureaucracy, and chats momentarily with Maxillar. He’s impressed by something - the black eye, the batted eyelashes, or the way Elen pushed her way to the inner circle - it’s hard to say. But he answers your questions for Dressage Today, and softens his demeanor somewhat.
You succeed in influencing Pythareus, though there’s more influencing yet to go. Also, you get a +2 to this Diplomacy roll from the Courtyard bonus (even though you’re not in the courtyard) but not for the Knowledge Local check below. Still, you succeeded at both rolls.
Finally, it’s on to Lady Gloriana Morilla who agrees with you wholeheartedly, ”Yes, such activities were rife in the Senate in ages past, though we have become more civilized of late, we still have some ways to go.” She inquires carefully as to what evidence you have of such activity, and promises to look into it.
You have successfully determined that to influence her, you need Diplomacy, Bluff, Intimidate, or Knowledge (nobility) DC 14. If you are able to cast spells, and say so (or Bluff it) you get a +4 to the roll from her weakness (learned earlier, just refreshing the information).
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla (weakness learned)
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner (weakness learned)
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Kamari - Martella Lotheed has one more request, but later (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Major Kort - Countess Abrielle Pace still to be identified (sense motive or perception after influenced at least once) (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
- - -
The evening is growing late when a silence falls over the gala, and the crowd parts as servants unroll a red carpet through the Arcade of Triumphs and the senate floor. Grand Prince Stavian III and a host of his Ulfen Guard then arrive, slowly ascending the 100 steps to the building. Guests quickly flock to catch a glimpse of Taldor’s leader, who, once at the top, briskly moves toward the Emperor’s Hall, which is then closed to the public.
The arrival of the Grand Prince causes some expected upheaval among the assembled guests. For example Maxillar Pythareus retreats to convene with Stavian III in the Emperor’s Hall, while Princess Eutropia recuses herself to partake in several private meetings before her father’s expected speech. Neither are available for this set of social rounds.
As things die down, Lady Lotheed sends a badge missive, ”The Grand Prince has arrived! Things will move quickly now as food is served so finish your tasks. Kamari, I need you please.” As always, you may reply to Lady Lotheed, which will be heard by the group and must be less than 25 words.
All this will take you one social round if you make a DC 12 escape artist or CMB to move through the crowds. Remember you have a +4 to the roll from various shortcuts the party has been able to discern. If you fail, it takes you two rounds to complete.
- - -
Following the Grand Prince’s arrival, servants begin to appear, bringing out a light supper by placing various expensive cheeses, fruits, pastries, and wines out on tables or carrying platters to offer momentary repast. The food placates the masses left confused by Stavian’s abrupt arrival and sudden disappearance, and soon conversations return to normal. Socializing becomes easier, as interested parties jockey for positions around food tables to speak with important dignitaries.
You have three social rounds as people are chomping away. It is easier to communicate and get around, so everyone enjoys a +2 circumstance bonus on all influence checks.
Half way through ‘supper’, there’s an audible groan from the Senate floor. It seems the century old bottle of wine donated by the Lotheed family is opened and served at this time. It’s quality is so sub-par however, that patrons cannot help but twist up their faces upon drinking it. Sickly sweet - but bitter too - the wine is undrinkable, and the Lotheed family, some of them anyway, are red faced and hiding from their shame…
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla (weakness learned)
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner (weakness learned)
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (3/3)(reroll)
Elen - completed (3/3)(reroll)
Kamari - Martella Lotheed has one more request (3/3)(reroll)
Major Kort - Countess Abrielle Pace still to be identified (sense motive or perception after influenced at least once) (3/3)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (3/3)(reroll)
Muri - completed (3/3)(reroll)
NOTE: +2 to all influence checks (circumstance) which does not stack with the +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate from the Courtyard. It’s just +2 to everything now.
- - -
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Anselm continues his chat with Lord Kastner while noshing on sheep's milk cheese and savory puff pastries.
"Ah, but let us not forget the Shining Crusade. If it had not been for Iomedae, the Whispering Tyrant would surely have remained free. More recently, we have seen Andoran break off from infernal Cheliax, led in part by Alysande Benedict. And we have less wholesome examples — the white witches of Irrisen..."
He moans a little bit as he bites into a goat shoulder tart curried in the Mwangi style, before continuing.
"They suggest women are quite capable of being great military leaders. Though certainly each of these women saw military might as merely one tool. How many lives could be spared and feuds prevented if we first tried diplomacy? How much more force would we have ready to set against Avistan's true evils?"
He sips an effervescent muscadet before concluding. "Take Princess Eutropia, for example. I have heard tales of her magnificent swordplay. And yet she seeks friendship with nations that stand with Taldor against evil. That strikes me as wisdom, a core component of stately might."
Thanks, milady. Some food shall fortify me as I attempt to remind Lord Kastner of the many women who have proven their military aptitude...
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Muri finds himself a bit on the not-so-hungry side, but understands that he has to look like he's there for the dinner, so he sidles up to the Countess Abrielle Pace. From the mentions within the Lotheed contingent, the halfling understands that she's pliable with conversations regarding quality assessments and market values. Muri pulls up his britches, and pulls down his hat, and gets to work.
"Good evening, Countess! I'm Muri. Muri Daybreaker, though you might know my uncle, Malaric Pelicourt? He did a fair bit of business in fine jewelry, and occupies a nice manor on Senate's Hill. You strike me as someone with an eye for quality..."
The halfling does his best to impress the Countess with his uncle's prowess, with his own humble understanding of current fashionable trends on gem cuts, and with Pace's tastes in adornments, while commenting on others at the Gala, only complimenting them himself, and tacitly agreeing with the Countess, should she choose to criticize in turns.
Muri proportions small bites to Underfoot discretely, going so far as to request a bowl of water from one of the servants.
Anselm continues to ply Lord Kastner and others round them with examples of balanced statecraft by persons of all genders. He focuses on those who resort to armed conflict to prevent evil and promote justice, and downplays the many Armies of Expansion Exploration in Taldor's history.
Anselm returns to the side Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius, offering to fetch her whatever sweets she desires. "Perhaps I could visit you sometime at the Repository with your favorite Opparan pastries."
Dinner Round 1
Mama D gives Lady Glorianna a breather, fluttering off to find someone else to work talk to. Earl Gahez Varima.
”Good evening, Sir. I hope the festivities made the trip from home worthwhile for you?” She does more listening than talking, hopes of learning how to influence him.
”Ah yes,” the Lord leans back in, warming to his subject. ”But would the Princess invade Cheliax? Now there’s a nest of vipers and no mistake. We spawned them, and so should feel some responsibility for cleaning up the mess they’ve become.” He seems very keen on invading Cheliax. ”I’m not sure diplomacy is going to cut it against the Lord of Darkness.”
You follow up by downplaying the Armies of Expansion, and he nods, ”Yes, there are certainly some dark spots in our history - that’s for sure! You seem like decent folk - and perhaps destined for future battles.” He laughs remembering Elen’s black eye. ”I’ll tell you what. You mention my name at any church in Oppara, and let them know you’re with me. They’ll give you a discount on their casting. Not potions or magics, just the waggling fingers.”
You successfully influence Lord Kastner, bringing him up to three. Now fully influenced, you can obtain clerical casting at 10% off in Oppara.
The Viscountess laughs at your forwardness, ”Oh child, I can only manage one sweet at a time in any case - oh the sugar does make my blood run fast!” Still smiling, she continues, ”But I see the eagerness in your eyes! Here,” she pats a nearby chair, ”Come sit with me a while and tell me why you are deserving.”
You successfully influence Viscountess Nicodemius for the first time. At least one more to go!
- - -
In the end though, it becomes clear through your discussion that Abrielle Pace respects… Abrielle Pace. What that means for her vote is uncertain, but this tidbit does help the party when chatting with Baron Okerra, Lady Morilla or Princess Eutropia giving you a +4 circumstance bonus on influence checks with any of those nobles. You have fully influenced Countess Pace.
- - -
You have discovered what influences the Earl - Profession merchant or Diplomacy DC 15 and he’s yours!
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla (weakness learned)
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace - fully influenced
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner - fully influenced
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (3/3)(reroll)
Kamari - Martella Lotheed has one more request (3/3)(reroll)
Major Kort - Countess Abrielle Pace still to be identified (sense motive or perception while Muri plies her with questions) (3/3)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (2/3)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
NOTE: +2 to all influence checks (circumstance) which does not stack with the +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate from the Courtyard. It’s just +2 to everything now.
- - -
Dinner round 2
”Oh yes, I do indeed, at least, that is the hope, isn’t it?” Mama D continues her Dinner Discussions with the Earl, in hopes of influencing him to The Cause. [b]”The Princess is a good example of that, no? I understand she’s been to many of the distant areas of our fine country, with a desire to know all about this land. I can only imagine that would make for a wonderfully wise, open minded ruler.
Kamari slips through the crowds this time, barely.
This is so much easier at night in the back alleys, not in a dress.
She delivers the first missive to Lady Glorianna and receives twice the work in return. She returns first to Lady Lotheed and then back to Duke Centimus.
"Good to see you again, your Grace." She waits to see if he has any response while she considers her next move for the night.
She sees Anselm nearby speaking with the Viscountess who looks older than Major. She wills head that way if the Duke has nothing for her.
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Sporting a shiner from where one of Trant's goons hit her, she passes by Anselm and Lord Kastner.
* * *
* * *
* * *
Feeling that the Duke is well situated to support the Princess, K'Aldrian keeps his mind focused on the Countess, and to some extent the High Strategos.
He tries again to figure out what weakness the Strategos might have.
Sense Motive
He seems to support the Princess, at least nominally, but he worries a little how she’ll be as a ruler. Still, you’ve successfully influenced him for the first time!
- - -
You have completed your tasks for Lady Lotheed this evening. You are free!
- - -
You expect her to vote last, if she can, and with the majority, regardless of who’s winning. Currently, she thinks the Princess is winning, so she's on her team.
Once you notify Martella Lotheed what you’ve learned (which does not take a social round, just some discussion), you’re done with your missions!
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla (weakness learned)
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace - fully influenced
Duke Leonard Centimus - fully influenced
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner - fully influenced
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (3/3)(reroll)
Kamari - completed (2/3)(reroll)
Major Kort - Notify Lady Lotheed what you’ve learned. (2/3)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (1/3)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
NOTE: +2 to all influence checks (circumstance) which does not stack with the +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate from the Courtyard. It’s just +2 to everything now.
- - -
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Dessert!
Kamari finishes up with the Duke and spies the plates of desserts en route to the tables. She interrupts a passing waiter to grab a crystal goblet with a raspberry trifle. Dessert in hand she approaches Anselm and the Viscountess.
"Anselm! Have you tried this? The berries, the sponge cake, the cream. It's wonderful."
"Viscountess Nicodemius, good evening, my apologies for interrupting but I couldn't miss this opportunity to meet you. The Endless Repository. Is it really endless? Does it have a magic room that just keeps expanding to meet the needs? What is the most wondrous object there?"
Kamari looks around and lowers her voice.
"Did you bring anything with you?"
Kamari finds herself unable to shut up.
"Do you think a man or woman in charge would be best to preserve its existence and legacy? Does it matter?"
Seeing both Pace and Centimus moving in the right direction, K'Aldrian noticeably relaxes as if the pressure is off. His two assignments have been completed, and could spend his time trying to help others accomplish theirs.
Seeing a familiar face in Mama D, K'Al pauses and looks at the round man from the region northeast of Zimar. That's Earl Varima! I should know him.
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Muri pops part of a shepherd's pie into his mouth, guided by a fork, not a finger, before excusing himself from his 'rewarding' conversation with the Countess. He uses the same napkin to clean the corners of his mouth, then the corners of Underfoot's eyes, before setting it down on his chair, and taking a walk to settle the food swirling in his belly.
He wiles away the time setting the architecture of the building to memory, as he's been so focused on the visitors. He's glad for it, as it will make the evening's dinner in the farmhouse kitchen grander for the stories he intends to tell.
The beautiful dancer elf. The stoic soldier and his cane. The vivacious swordswoman. The mysterious fey fellow. The wizened and wise madame. They feel quite relatable now, but when Muri finds the flourishes, they'll take on extraordinary dimensions by the time the evening is done, both here and now, and by story's end on the Daybreaker farm. However distant it may be, the halfling feels unstoppable for the roll he's on. First the Miragella Ball, now the Gala.
He should be done in no time at all, on the road to Northern Taldor by week's end...
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.
.
Elen asks and writes down Max's answers to her questions.
1) "Baked wheat gruel, no sweets."
2) "Much practice in funambulism with no balance pole goes a long way."
3) "Thursdays."
"Oh! The Society will be excited and pleased! Thank you so much!" Elen exclaims, snapping shut her notepad and bustling past K'Aldrian and the other soldiers as she makes her way to the dining area.
Elen eyes Pace from a distance. Something about that woman rubs me the wrong way. Probably best if I avoid her.
She grabs a handful of grapes and a glass of sparkling wine and seeks out Lady Morilla.
"I have such a difficult time, you know, understanding some humans that I often need to fight off the urge to cast Comprehend Languages. Here unfortunately it is taboo at the moment of course," she states, then lowers her voice. "What I have 'heard' is -- the Trants -- by way of force and bullying may be attempting to sway the votes of other senators to be in favor of primogeniture."
She smiles and winks her blackened eye.
"And how about young Kalbio? A true rags to riches story. His parents scrounged copper pieces to pay for his education as a weaver’s apprentice and for the past ten years his work as decorated even the imperial palace. There's no greater a weaver in the courts, even among those that have a 'leg up' -- so I have heard it said."
Guessing her welcome with Lady Morilla is coming overdue, Elen approaches Lady Clement.
"Mwangi spices are truely my favorite -- they really speak to me. Tell me, is it dangerous living so close to the Verduran Forest? I hear the Fey in that forest can be quite treacherous. Apparently they have their own ideas about decorating their neighbor's houses. It involves rainbow colored chamber pot tissue."
”The value of a library isn’t its rarest, or even most powerful artifact. Hell, those are often replicas on display anyway, the real deal being locked away somewhere rather safer. No, the value of the Endless Repository is the mundane. Why this archive we're in now was once treasured for all the little facts it used to store about the Empire. Now look at it. It’s half what it once was - though it still takes up all the space!”
”The Endless Repository is a place of learning. All manner of learning. You come down sometime and I’ll give you all a guided tour. You can see how women have forged this world in ways men often miss.”
You have successfully fully influenced Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius. She grants you guided access to the Endless Repository in western Porthmos. Within its walls, any knowledge check can be made, even untrained, at +2 - and deeper mysteries await the true student of history.
- - -
You have learned the Earl’s weakness, without expending a social round. You still have two left. Don’t forget, you may have completed your task, but Lady Lotheed is unaware of what you know. She needs to be appraised before you are done. As an added bonus, it doesn’t take a social round to do, just some role play.
- - -
She agrees too about Kalbio, ”Yes, it is nice when the Elevation is of someone so worthy as he. You know he’s really quite delightful. You should meet the Princess, but unfortunately she is in meetings just now - busy night for her you understand. Still, I will ensure you are known to her - and known as someone who can make a difference.”
”Ooh!” she mutters and grows quiet a moment as if in thought. ”I’m being summoned, if you’ll excuse me.” You notice that while Lady Morilla is very powerful in her own right, she bears the Senatorial Aide badge of Princess Eutropia, who has apparently just spoken to her telepathically.
You gain notoriety with Princess Eutropia for the group (and a +2 bonus on social rolls with her during the Gala, though that’s not as useful now). You have fully influenced Lady Gloriana Morilla.
Lady Clement is more boisterous by far, ”Ahh yes, though I have never been there, the spices of the Mwangi are quite prevalent in our household as you may imagine. Many recipes from generations past have filtered down to me and now, my children.”
She smiles and happily speaks of her families home, ”The Verduran Forest is wild, that is true, but what is life without a little wildness in it? Oh, you should see our estate. It’s beautiful land along the very fringe of the great forest itself. It’s hard to describe the grandeur of the land.”
You have successfully influenced Lady Clement for the first time.
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla - fully influenced
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima (weakness learned)
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace - fully influenced
Duke Leonard Centimus - fully influenced
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius - fully influenced
Lord Remilliard Kastner - fully influenced
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned) *temporarily unavailable*
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Kamari - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Major Kort - Notify Lady Lotheed what you’ve learned. (2/3)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (1/3)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
NOTE: +2 to all influence checks (circumstance) which does not stack with the +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate from the Courtyard. It’s just +2 to everything now.
- - -
Mama D had fully intended to find Lady Glorianna again, but finds herself trapped with the Earl as he continues on about the importance of strong trade partners, ” While I don’t know this, of course, but just at how well our Princess handles this crowd. Surely she will do no worse with our trading...Oh Look! There is the Good Major,
Major K'Aldrian Kort! Yoo-hoo! Major! I was just discussing trade alliances with Earl Varima here. Please do join us and give us your opinion.“
”I was just discussing trade alliances with Earl Varima here. Please do join us and give us your opinion.“
Kort finds himself rounding in on the Earl as Mama D keeps talking a good game.
"Ah, Mama, you know the Earl? Please introduce us, I must have an introduction," K'Aldrian warms up to an extent, leaning into formality and awaiting an introduction. He reaches out his hand to the Earl to receive Mama's introduction.
"Trade alliances? Of course!" K'Aldrian smiles. "I've often felt that the key to a good alliance is trust and honesty, openness...which, funnily enough, is very different than the keys to war and battle. You can achieve more with a good reputation than you can with angry words in trade, can you not?"
: Diplomacy (+weakness bonus, +parade armor, +room)
K'Aldrian waits for a moment for the Earl to opine and discuss, then offers more thoughts on trade, focusing on trust, being honest, and negotiating in good faith.
: Diplomacy (+weakness bonus, +parade armor, +room)
You succeed in influencing him a second time… but there’s at least one more to go, as he’s not yet fully convinced.
- - -
"Trade alliances? Of course!" K'Aldrian smiles. "I've often felt that the key to a good alliance is trust and honesty, openness...which, funnily enough, is very different than the keys to war and battle. You can achieve more with a good reputation than you can with angry words in trade, can you not?"
”Ah, I suppose…” The Earl begins slowly, clearly made somewhat uncomfortable by the military man. He warms to him however as the conversation continues, ”Yes, I imagine battle to be very different from trade, though both often involve hostilities, and even drawn weapons at times!” he chuckles. Though you doubt he’s had to fight for his life before, there is a confidence in him that he wouldn’t run when facing that moment.
”I’ll tell you what, you let me show you what a proper trade hegemony can do, and I’ll see to it that it’s worth your while!”
You have achieved a fully influenced Earl, who, through his contacts, can obtain mundane, nonmagical goods at 10% off.
- - -
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian - fully influenced
Lady Gloriana Morilla - fully influenced
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima - fully influenced
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace - fully influenced
Duke Leonard Centimus - fully influenced
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius - fully influenced
Lord Remilliard Kastner - fully influenced
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned) *temporarily unavailable*
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
Character tasks (available social rounds)(reroll available)
Anselm - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Elen - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Kamari - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Major Kort - Notify Lady Lotheed what you’ve learned. (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Mamma D - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
Muri - completed (no social rounds remaining)(reroll)
NOTE: +2 to all influence checks (circumstance) which does not stack with the +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate from the Courtyard. It’s just +2 to everything now.
- - -
Finally, as the food begins to thin, and the older Senators begin to doze in their hedonism, the Taldan Senate convenes to vote on various issues while guests are herded to watch from the gallery above. As staffers, you are welcome to observe from the gallery as well. It’s a fascinating spectacle!
Watching the law of the land get made is fascinating, if brisk. The hall spends just 30 minutes arguing and voting on formalities and spending bills - most of it seemingly already decided in advance for the pronouncements feel somewhat staged, and curt. Or perhaps the Senators too are eager to proceed to the more important vote of the evening.
Eventually, the august body reaches the event all of Taldor has been waiting for: whether to abolish the long-standing law of primogeniture. The political ruling body of Taldor spreads out twenty feet below the observation deck of the gallery. Though the hall is well lit, pale light from the full moon pours out on the dozens of senators and their immediate aides as they scurry below. The cacophony of voices is almost deafening - all the last minute dealing - and it seems like the ceaseless chatter will continue endlessly. Suddenly, the magically amplified voice of the Senate Speaker interrupts the noise.
“Thank you all. I would ask that our observers please be silent and seat themselves. We will now begin voting on addendum number twenty-two thousand eighty-seven: the repeal of the ancient law of primogeniture, the issuance of inheritance and aristocratic title solely through male heirs.”
Following this proclamation, the Speaker begins calling on individual senators one at a time to support or oppose the repeal - there being no further discussion. Early declarations split evenly between the options, with many Senators abstaining entirely, and only halfway through the process do votes begin to favor Princess Eutropia’s bid to end primogeniture.
By the end of the tabulations, the repeal passes with roughly 60 percent of the senate’s backing! The Speaker takes a moment to compose himself, seemingly shocked by the results, before continuing to formally announce the vote in a distant, if loud, monotone.
With the declaration made, the chamber explodes in a riot of applause and condemnation. It takes many minutes for the cacophony to die down enough for the Speaker to regain control. The Speaker declares that a closed senate recount is to take place, an event forcing a temporary recess of the Senate to outsiders. That means you, as you are ushered out of the Senate halls and back to the Courtyard.
Shortly thereafter you hear in your minds, from an excited Lady Martella Lotheed, ”Well that was something! Closer than I’d thought. Join me in the northern area of the Arcade of Triumphs in the far northeast corner, please.”
As you, presumably, head in that direction, ushers begin announcing Grand Prince Stavian III’s speech and exaltation of Kalbio will begin in thirty minutes.
Anselm contains his joy at the news, attempting to assess which of the group's quarries celebrate the news. In particular, he looks about for Lord Kastner and Earl Varima.
He sends a response to Martella.
He looks for the Major and Mama D, offering his hand to the first one that he sees.
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”Huzzah!
Kamari repeats her shouts for almost a minute after the voting until quieted by others. She lowers her energy level but shows no signs of embarrassment at her outburst.
Her silence equals her enthusiasm when she hears about the closed senate vote. She dreads the arm twisting and petty excuses that might occur to undo the amendment. When Lady Lotheed’s message arrives she exhales loudly and allows herself to finally relax. She tries to regain the ecstasy of the time right after the first vote, but the moment is lost like when her father arrives home early and she has to rush someone out the back window.
She looks for a fresh or even abandoned glass of bubbly to ease the rush of adrenaline still coursing through her body. She sips slowly and takes in the mood of the crowd as she heads for the Arcade of Triumphs. All seems well for now.
K'Aldrian thanks both the Earl and Mama D for a delightful diversion and entertaining conversation during the party. Before the night moves to the next stage, K'Aldrian excuses himself to find Lady Lotheed and report back in.
"Lady, you asked me to..." K'Al will report on both Countess Pace and Centimus.
* * *
K'Aldrain finds = Muri! to watch the Senate deliberations. He's not exactly thrilled to see it all, but does take time to brush up on the nobility in attendance and see the faces of people.
"Muri, I trust you were successful with your task?" K'Al ask stiffly, also hoping Underfoot was well fed. "And these deliberations, admittedly, I've not seen them before. And to think Taldor's central power comes out of these walls, this chamber. It is magnificent, don't you think?" K'Al asks, hoping that he spent his military life in pursuit of something true.
* * *
"Anslem! A great victory!" K'Aldrian offers his hand to Anselm for a vigorous victory shake. "Not sure it was all our doing, but it's nice to be on the side of victory. This has been fun, has it not? I might spend more time in study of politics as I enjoy my retirement now that this is over."
Hearing a beckon, K'Aldrian begins to rustle Muri and Anselm. "Did you hear that? Are you both coming to the Arcade of Triumphs? Come now...there might be a nice toast." K'Al begins to clack in that direction.
Anselm shakes K'Aldrian's hand warmly, clasping it in two of his own. "I foresee a long future in politics for us both. I've a thing or two to learn from you."
He nods, confirming he has heard the summons. Not wanting to deprive the older gentleman of his independence, the young Basri attempts to clear a path in the crowd. "Excuse me, sir. Ah, hello Earl Casimus. I love the embroidery on your jacket."
He narrowly avoids being tangled up in a minor social obligation, doing little to ease the major's passage.
Elen starts clapping at the announcement of the vote, but becomes swiftly overwhelmed by the explosive riot that suddenly erupts in the chamber. Starting at every loud noise, she is only able to calm herself when she hears Lady Martella's summons.
Closer than you thought?! And they want a recount?! How off could it be with a 28 spread?! Will they force votes among the abstainers?" Elen responds as she gladly makes her way out of the mayhem.
"Something about that announcement and the chamber reaction didn't feel quite right," she confesses in a whisper upon arriving.
"Muri, I trust you were successful with your task? And these deliberations, admittedly, I've not seen them before. And to think Taldor's central power comes out of these walls, this chamber. It is magnificent, don't you think?"
Muri nods enthusiastically. "The High Strategos didn't move around too much, so it was easier to watch him. Like a queen bee, with all the workers buzzing about him. I hope my observations satisfied Lady Martella." Underfoot finds distraction in sniffing the Major's boots, though her ears twitch at the loud outbursts of the chamber.
"We watched history, right? Not a lot of people can say they were standing where we're standing, when the votes were counted. I'm not sure about recounts, though. That usually happens when the losers don't like the first count."
"Well that was something! Closer than I’d thought. Join me in the northern area of the Arcade of Triumphs in the far northeast corner, please.”
Muri looks up at the Major, understanding by the grey beard's sudden draw of attention that he's heard the same message. "What do you think? Time for our reward? Maybe an audience with the Princess herself, to hear our own ambitions?"
The halfling starts off for the Arcades, well and truly familiar with that part of the Senate. Underfoot heels, glad for a change of scenery, distant of the noise, hopefully.
Lord Kastner and Earl Varima both voted with the Princess. It’s hard to catch sight of them post vote, as there’s little time and much confusion, but you’ll get a glimpse of Lord Kastner praying fervently, face upward toward the heavens. They seem like happy prayers, for the future of Queen and Country, but it’s hard to tell sometimes with the extremely devout.
Kamari suffers, having found no bubbly to slake her thirst, as she walks back through the Senate. The people, generally, are ecstatic. From what you can tell regarding the crowd of non-Senators, they seem more overwhelmingly in support of the Princess than the vote reflects. She suspects it’s a case where the Senate is following the populous, rather than leading them.
As you gather with Lady Martella Lotheed, she fairly glows with pleasure. ”We did it! Princess Eutropia Stavian I has a nice ring to it.” she laughs with simple happiness - months of work on her part, maybe even years, culminating in this singular victory. ”A changing empire, Taldor will never be the same - and you played your parts with aplomb! Well done each of you. I’m only sorry I didn’t bring you in sooner to widen the vote in our favor!”
Closer than you thought?! And they want a recount?! How off could it be with a 28 spread?! Will they force votes among the abstainers?" Elen responds as she gladly makes her way out of the mayhem.
"Something about that announcement and the chamber reaction didn't feel quite right," she confesses in a whisper upon arriving.
The Lady nods, ”It always feels weird - the recounts. Some Senators will change their vote, but usually it's to get on the right side of history, so I expect our victory to widen, not narrow. The ‘official’ vote will be the second one - just a way of saving face for some I think.”
She produces fat pouches of gold and distributes them to you immediately. Checking, there are 300gp in each simple leather purse. ”I pay my debts quickly when I can, and we have succeeded so there’s reason to celebrate!” She spies a stack of wine glasses stored in the corner, though she can find no wine, just cleaning supplies that are best left undrunk.
She shrugs and continues, ”We’ll toast another time. For now, enjoy the rest of your evening. It is expected that Grand Prince Stavian III will give a concession speech to Eutropia’s bid for the throne. While the vote does not replace Stavian III, he has made no secret of his opposition to the repeal, and I expect the aging emperor will show little restraint in lambasting his daughter. But what can he do?”
She sees a letter neatly folded and sealed with was embossed with a simple heart on the table and is reminded, ”Oh, I almost forgot! One more, relatively minor, task for one of you.” She picks up the letter and offers it to someone, ”This is a message for Kalbio of Breezy Creek - the peasant about to be exalted. His parents couldn’t afford to be away for the ceremony, but they’ve provided this letter. I’m told it’s of a personal and emotional nature and his parents wished him to receive it after his exaltation.”
”So when the ceremony is over, plese deliver it. He’s such a special young man, have you met him?”
"We’ll toast another time. For now, enjoy the rest of your evening."
"Oh, well --" says Elen, pulling the Gala dinner wine that she swapped with the lesser label from the belt slung around her hips and plunks it in front of everyone. "but actually, if you and Mama D are tired of the Lotheed label, we can instead enjoy a little brandy." She pulls another bottle out from her clutch.
"Or, maybe we should just sell it all!"
”So when the ceremony is over, plese deliver it. He’s such a special young man, have you met him?”
"I have not, there hasn't been enough time! Let's say we all deliver it to him?"
Muri frowns when Lady Martella begins producing gold, and brightens when Elen produces the bottle. "You are confident to walk about this evening with six gold purses, Lady Martella. Did you have them on you this whole time?"
"It is expected that Grand Prince Stavian III will give a concession speech to Eutropia’s bid for the throne. While the vote does not replace Stavian III, he has made no secret of his opposition to the repeal, and I expect the aging emperor will show little restraint in lambasting his daughter. But what can he do?”
Lady Martella continues to make Muri frown. "Why would he lambast the Princess? Why would he be angry with his own daughter, his only heir? Wouldn't he be proud that his true blood descendent will assume the throne when he passes away? Does he think of her as a threat now? I don't get the sense that Eutropia is the kind of person to hire assassins and cut him short to get herself on the throne quickly. Unless he has a plan to live forever?" Muri's done frowning, but only just.
That’s it? I was just getting used to my days being as exciting as my nights.
Kamari takes the offered sip of brandy from Elen before addressing Lady Lotheed.
”Forgive my boldness, but I don’t know if I will ever have the chance again. Might you arrange an introduction with the Princess? I’m sure there’s some need I might be able to fill.”
Anselm orates a little in response to Muri's question.
"Our liege need not like the decision to accede to it. His Highness has power, but succession is a matter of those who survive, not of a crown prince without heir — well, male heir, under the old law. Though it is within his power to undermine it. We shall see what happens next."
If no one else volunteers, Anselm takes the letter to Kalbio in hand and tucks it discreetly into the breast pocket of his jacket. He looks anxious. Shelyn, let love and inventiveness guide us through what comes next.
”I have not met him,” K’Aldrian responds stiffly. ”I have not yet had the chance...or if I had the chance, passed it up for other opportunities.” Kort discreetly tucks away the gold pouch, uncertain what he is going to do with it. Not that he needs much, but some new books might be nice.
When there is a lull in the conversation, K’Aldrian will press forward with something that has been on his mind.
”Is the letter the last of it then? Are we done, not just for tonight, but in parting? I enjoyed meeting all of you, but I should doubt that I’ll run into you again. Unless of course you wish to meet for tea or discussion....”
"Oh, well --" says Elen, pulling the Gala dinner wine that she swapped with the lesser label from the belt slung around her hips and plunks it in front of everyone. "but actually, if you and Mama D are tired of the Lotheed label, we can instead enjoy a little brandy." She pulls another bottle out from her clutch.
"Or, maybe we should just sell it all!"
Martella glances at her own purse, then smiles, and roots into her satchel. Pulling out some bits of wire, a small bear trap type device and, eventually, a small sapphire. ”Here, I can get another of these. I’ll buy your wine, admittedly at below market value, but it is stolen after all.” she laughs and offers the gemstone, worth 400gp, to Elen. If accepted, Lady Lotheed opens her newly acquired bottle of 100yr old cabernet, and pours glasses all around.
”Now this is what the nobles missed out on. To Princess Eutropia Stavian I!” She toasts as she takes a sip of the really delightful, smooth sipping wine.
Muri frowns when Lady Martella begins producing gold, and brightens when Elen produces the bottle. "You are confident to walk about this evening with six gold purses, Lady Martella. Did you have them on you this whole time?"
”Sure. I had every confidence in your abilities to win the day.”
Lady Martella continues to make Muri frown. "Why would he lambast the Princess? Why would he be angry with his own daughter, his only heir? Wouldn't he be proud that his true blood descendent will assume the throne when he passes away? Does he think of her as a threat now? I don't get the sense that Eutropia is the kind of person to hire assassins and cut him short to get herself on the throne quickly. Unless he has a plan to live forever?" Muri's done frowning, but only just.
”Well, you must know that Eutropia is not the Kings first choice. He had a son, Prince Carrius, Eutropia’s younger brother who perished 20 years ago now. Prince Carrius was being groomed for the throne, and the Grand Prince put all of his attention on the boy. Alas it was not meant to be, and Stavian III has been a broken man in many ways since. So this win of Eutropia’s is a bit bitter for some.” She tries to explain it, though it’s clear she agrees with Muri to some extent as well.
”Forgive my boldness, but I don’t know if I will ever have the chance again. Might you arrange an introduction with the Princess? I’m sure there’s some need I might be able to fill.”
”Oh, of course!” Lady Martella’s eyes glisten, ”You’ll be formally introduced, though she’s already mentioned you as a group - you’ve already made some impression, and impressions are not fleeting things for the Princess. While there are many who got us to this point, a government requires many to make it properly function. We’re not there yet of course, may the Grand Prince reign for many years yet," she says seriously, "but there is work to be done in preparation.”
”This is but the first step of a long road, leading to coronation.”
"Our liege need not like the decision to accede to it. His Highness has power, but succession is a matter of those who survive, not of a crown prince without heir — well, male heir, under the old law. Though it is within his power to undermine it. We shall see what happens next."
”Yes, our biggest concern is a forced marriage, though not even the Grand Prince of Taldor has that power, and the Princess has been deftly dodging certain difficult suitors. Which only annoys her father further in some ways.”
”Is the letter the last of it then? Are we done, not just for tonight, but in parting? I enjoyed meeting all of you, but I should doubt that I’ll run into you again. Unless of course you wish to meet for tea or discussion....”
"I hope, Major, that you'll consider working with us a bit in the future. But yes, the letter is the last of it for tonight. I may be busy immediately after the Gala, so I'll collect your badges tomorrow sometime - perhaps tea is a good idea. Same spot we met before the Gala? Say 2pm tomorrow - The Shining Scale?"
"And after tomorrow, you are always welcome in the parlor of my family's townhouse. They are still getting used to having me back, but I am certain they would welcome you at the front door."
"Major, what daily regimen will you return to hence?"
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"Major, what daily regimen will you return to hence?"
K'Aldrian smiles, looking up as if pondering while his gently pats the pouch he was just given. I can buy more books.
"I've been thinking about that a lot since I retired. When I was in the service, I never seemed to have time for things I wanted to do. Nothing I wanted ever came first...and it's taken me time to discover things that I really want to do," K'Al tries to explain retirement. "Right now, it's been reading. I have a lot of time for reading, and my own thoughts. You know what I've been meaning to learn?" He smiles with genuine interest.
"Magic." K'Al says with great aplomb. "I both do and don't have the knack for it. But mostly not, but sometimes yes. I'm just getting used to it." His pats the book that he got from the library, a small treasure worth more review.
"And what about you? After you deliver the letter? What will you do?"
"Ah, well, I had thought another posting in the foreign service. Now, perhaps we'll see what opportunities arise in the government." He speaks as though a position is assured.
"What magic interests you? There are so many delights to be found, though it is not my area of expertise."
Elen's eyes light up at the offer of a sapphire. "How beautiful! O.K., then it's yours! To Princess Eutropia Stavian I!" She seems to almost glow after tasting the wine, having no words herself to describe its sublimeness
.
"You are confident to walk about this evening with six gold purses, Lady Martella."
Elen is about to respond, but quickly realizes it is not her to which Muri is addressing. Actually, it made me feel nerous in a fun way, carrying around the brandy, gp and the wand gifts from the nobles -- not to mention this century old wine ...
Elen smiles, closes her eyes and sips her wine.
"Yes, our biggest concern is a forced marriage, though not even the Grand Prince of Taldor has that power.”
Elen gasps, covering her mouth. "Ooh! He wouldn't dare, would he? What do you mean 'certain difficult suitors'?" She pictures in her mind an enormous ugly brawler sporting a red headband.
Anselm interjects, "Maxillar Pythareus."
"Sure. I had every confidence in your abilities to win the day.”
Muri smiles at the misunderstanding. "Confidence or no, there are thugs about, and plenty of corners to get cornered in."
"Well, you must know that Eutropia is not the Kings first choice..."
Muri nods in new understanding, his smile lessened for the sad reality.
"And after tomorrow, you are always welcome in the parlor of my family's townhouse. They are still getting used to having me back, but I am certain they would welcome you at the front door."
"Very kind of you, Anselm. If you're inviting, might I bring my cousin with me to call? I think she'd be very interested in meeting with you. She was pretty curious about you all when you visited."
Muri's not terribly interested in Kalbio, but he does find himself entertained by the Martella contingent, so follows them along, clicking his tongue to catch Underfoot's waning attention on human conversations.
Elen gasps, covering her mouth. "Ooh! He wouldn't dare, would he? What do you mean 'certain difficult suitors'?" She pictures in her mind an enormous ugly brawler sporting a red headband.
Anselm interjects, "Maxillar Pythareus."
”Yes.” Lady Lotheed frowns, briefly, ”The High Strategos was a strong contender, at least as far as the Grand Prince was concerned. Loves that man like a son He does, but he’s simply not Eutropia’s type, though it still comes up from time to time. Hopefully less so now that the Princess is heir.”
Muri smiles at the misunderstanding. "Confidence or no, there are thugs about, and plenty of corners to get cornered in."
She smiles lightly, clearly confident in her own abilities, or perhaps she doesn’t see that as a lot of cash - after all she had a loose 400gp sapphire in her pack. Whatever the reason, she is unworried about such things, adding, ”Well, I’m rarely alone, and I have my own guardian angels watching my back from time to time as well. I shouldn’t worry overmuch.”
As you chat and drink amiably a few minutes more, an usher pokes his head in, ”Nearly speech time Lady Lotheed.” With that, she rises and says, ”I’ve got to find the Princess. Try not to gloat during the Grand Prince’s speech.” She smiles, and departs quickly.
You make your own way back to the Senate where hundreds of dignitaries, senators, and visitors cram onto the main chamber. A dozen hulking members of the Ulfen Guard, personal bodyguards of the Grand Prince, stand arrayed around a podium atop the central, circular stage of the chamber though Stavian III is not yet present.
A mix of senatorial staffers and more Ulfen Guard (who are not messing about) assign people to positions within the chamber based on rank and influence. You are placed toward the outer wall of the room, well over 80 feet away from the podium. Martella Lotheed stands 20 feet closer, while Princess Eutropia and several other prominent nobles stand at the elevated platform’s edge.
People mill about, more or less quietly, as they wait. The wait is short however, as Grand Prince Stavian III ascends to the tall stage that overlooks the hall from its center. He raises a single steady hand to calm the murmurs of the assembled crowd though it’s scarcely needed as his presence silences the audience. A member of the prince’s Ulfen Guard escorts a thrilled-looking man in noble attire - the soon-to-be elevated commoner, Kalbio - to stand several paces behind the Grand Prince.
“Quite the assembly we have here today,” the Grand Prince begins, his voice amplified by the same magic that assisted the Speaker. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the senate building packed so full; especially not for any of my previous speeches. Even my lovely daughter, now a woman, sits among the players of Oppara’s greatest game. Of course, none of you are here for me. No, today is about something else entirely. Today is about elevation. It is no secret that today is about exalting others to a new status in life.”
“I’m sure many of you have had the opportunity to meet Kalbio here. He is a man of the people, elevated at the urging of all the ladies, lords, senators, and aides present in this chamber. I think we should all give him a rousing applause, to commemorate this momentous change in his life.”
The room erupts into cheers as Stavian pauses in his proclamation. The Grand Prince of Taldor smiles widely as he takes in the adulation of the crowd.
- - -
Muri drinks in the ceremony, a little in awe of being in the same room as the Grand Prince. Underfoot is unimpressed, easing herself to the floor, between the halfling's legs, where she proceeds to groom her front paws.
Anselm sees and acts, shouting,
His words are not as strong as he might have hoped.
Additional magics are apparently at play in the grand hall, for Anselm's pronounced missive scarcely squeaks from his mouth - its volumes tamped down so that only a few in the immediate area, including the party, hear his proclamation.
Still, a those in your immediate vicinity begin to look around, taking stock not only of the Grand Prince, but what might be happening behind them. A few of the posh nobles shush Anselm for being so bold as to speak out while the Grand Prince is giving a speech however.
Kamari Begins to undo the peace binding on her rapier as she leans to alert her nearest compatriot when Anselm begins shouting.
Oppara is home to many secret societies who could field a group as large as this, but as to which one it my be - that information eludes you at this time.
- - -