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"Life in Oppara isn’t difficult to handle, once you’ve learned the rules:
if a senator tells you that what you want to do is illegal, talk to a different one;
if the district tax you pay is too high, move to the next house over;
if you require a diplomat to get the upper hand in negotiations, hire your rival’s out from under her;
if you need an honorable noble, promote the nearest farmer;
if you make a mistake, act like it never happened until people feel awkward and follow suit;
if you don’t like your past, pay a historian to write a new one;
if your office needs more funding, buy a weapon and declare yourself a military branch;
and if you need to keep something hidden forever, claim it’s urgent and hand it to a government official."
~Baronet Solmon Menander, Taldan bureaucrat
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It’s a beautiful day in Oppara! The chill of early spring clings to the morning air and a pale lavender mist curls above the River Porthmos as the fishermen bring in the day's catch. As the day progresses, the sun rises from her cloudy bed-curtains and stretches high into an azure sky, burning off the last clinging mists and beaming down her warming rays like a blessing from Sarenrae herself. The sunlight shines so golden off the white stone skyline of Oppara that you could almost believe the long-since stripped roofs and domes of The Gilded City had miraculously regained their precious gilt.
Tomorrow is the Day of the Grand Exaltation, where fancy Taldan Nobles will dress to the nines and make an extravagant show of accepting a commoner into their ranks. Meanwhile, they will put far more effort into furthering their own agendas before the Senate convenes. In a pageant of elegant fashions, they will be vying for advantage. During a sumptuous buffet, they will be jockeying for position. And while Lords and Ladies twirl to magnificent music, who knows what strange bedfellows may arise. And you will be among them. Your thoughts and feelings swirl as you wonder again about the letter you received just last night.
My most fond greetings, dear patriot,
I must confess, I have been something of a secret admirer. Your talents have not gone unnoticed. I have a lucrative proposition I would like to lay before you, in person. Enclosed you will find an advance, as a show of good faith. As part of my advanced compensation, enclosed you will also find an invitation to the Grand Exhaltation Gala. Get yourself outfitted if you will attend the Gala, I have included the name of a particularly talented clothier I know, as well. Please join me for lunch beforehand at the address below.
~Martella Lotheed
You strain to imagine what it all might mean for you, and for your future. But that is still tomorrow. For the common people, today is the Main Event! Today is the Exaltation Tournament at the Oppara Arena and even with 20,000 seats, it will likely be standing room only. Admittance is a mere copper and word on the street is that the Stavian family has liberally donated to provide free food and drink to all attendees! Perhaps even more exciting, a great and sprawling Street Faire will encompass almost the whole of the Grandbridge district surrounding the Arena as merchants, clothiers, food sellers and entertainers all spill out onto the crowded avenues to hawk their wares and services to tourists and natives both.
Yes indeed, it’s sure to be quite a day!
Ismene looked through the rolling racks of gowns for the Gala with a crease beginning to from between her freshly shaped brows. Which still stung, despite what the woman with her swift rolling threads had promised. Still, they were now artfully angled, with nary a stray out of place.
*clack*clack*clack*
The clothes hangers punctuated her annoyance as she swiftly slid the last gown further down the rod to join her rejects. She quickly glanced over the next one in line before immediately dismissing it and sliding it away as well. All perfectly lovely gowns, a parade of shimmering satins and shining silks. "No, they're all too bright! You know I can't wear anything like that." She complained to her friend. Ismene was sometimes sensitive about her swarthy complexion. She was told often she was the 'spitting image' of her late mother, and while this was certainly a compliment for her mother was quite attractive, she often wished it was not so. Though half Taldane by blood, she looked like a full blooded Keleshite, with hair and eyes so dark they looked nearly black. Brights and pastels tended to make her look even darker still.
Nearing her limit, she turned to the Elven seamstress. "Please tell me you have anything appropriate in a deeper shade. I know Gala's are not known for somber hues, but surely there is something? A nice deep jewel tone, perhaps?" She gave the elf woman a pleading look.
For the first several hours he would enjoy the sights of the festival seeing where the best spots would be to entertain the crowds and taking it all in, after all this was his stage!
He would activate his halo to get more attention when he was sure this was the right spot. Out near a fashion store called, Rare Rack, He would start with his acrobatics act and use many of his magical tricks to accentuate the act.
He had many tricks up his sleeve to keep the crowds attention. His entertainer's outfit and the multicolored scarves that trail from it would keep their attention. Of course his supernatural features are what got the crowd to watch at first, the hair that shines like gold, jewel-toned eyes of sapphire blue, lustrous skin color, and the glowing golden halo. Next were his spells: Flare, out of reach to not harm anyone made it look like he breathes fire.
Then he would begin to juggle the bullets, for his sling, adding prestidigitation to change the color on the bullets. Continuing to juggle harder he would add one more getting four of them going, then at the last bit he would use mage hand to hold one out with his mind as the continued to juggle the others. Activating his halo to dramatic effect.
Putting the bullets away he would use a different form of Prestidigitation to create small objects, but they look crude and artificial. But that is fine as he uses his sleight of hand to make them appear and disappear. Then using the audience he makes them appear behind an ear, or in someone's hand. Leaving the items with many of the spectators. His hands may not be as fast as normal but he can play it off easily enough, he knows how to play the fool.
Just as they though the act was done he quickly pulls away from the crowd and activates his halo. He cast flare again into the sky and begins to orate:
"Be kind to one another, for time is short, soon... soon you will have to find other activities and only the bar keeps will keep you full and happy. For soon the festival shall begin! Are you ready?! I can't hear you! Are you ready?!" Now that he has the crowd chanting he changes himself using his alter self ability to look like the Grand Prince! "This is just the beginning of the festival, you all have a great time! And remember be kind..." With that he walks around with his pack accepting donations.
"No, they're all too bright! You know I can't wear anything like that." She complained to her friend.
A bemused smile met her friend's words. Then in a voice to calm Ismene, Viviana answered agreeably, "Deep sapphire blues have suited you well. A velvet gown would be lovely..." she uttered as her friend questioned the Elven seamstress. Viviana reached out and appreciatively stroked some of the satin and lace ribbons hanging prettily in bright and pretty hues. And then in a lowered, more discreet voice, she continued, "And we must have some tasteful jewellery - none of those gaudy baubles preferred by some high-born ladies."
Viviana's mind wondered monetarily to Petellia. The senior acolyte had granted permission for her to forgo the usual churchly duties so she could spend the day primping for the festivities to come.
Casting a glance at Ismere, she added, "Will you be purchasing a matching fan? I cannot see you with one of those lace and ivory stick folding fans. Perhaps a hand-painted one to match your gown. Last gala I saw a few with feathers and jewels and they were quite extravagant. Although, you having one in smaller, deep blue feathers may be quite smart."
Torin checks his hair, flattening a pair of unruly lockes to the side with the back of his hand. He then checks his silver laurel clip in the same motion. He had no doubt his outfit was pristine. With his looks set in order he opened the gate to the waist high marble fence outside his mentor's home and stepped into the street.
As he walked through the bustling streets he moved at first with the practiced effortless gate he had been trained for, but as he worked his way toward his destination and away from fancy manors his pace quickened and the man's posture relaxed. A hint of a smile played across his boyish features.
He had expected to follow his mentor Selvid on various courtesies through the day. Meeting potential sponsor or other noble. A boring if not secure course. Instead his master had informed him to go out on his own, have his lunch at the "Mamma Crow" and see if he couldn't garner some attention on his own. He was uncertain if the letter he had received and his instructions were a plan of his mentor or a matter of serendipity. He only knew for certain that he was free of his normal fetters and able to spend the morning about the city.
He knew where he might be able to find Thonis, and though she was not guaranteed to be there he moved quickly now at the off chance he could meet up with her. The sturdy monk had little issue moving between the crowds of people in the street. All at once he pulled up and returned to a slow walk. An idea had struck him, and he changed course. He knew a candy shop nearby. A small voice in the back of his mind acknowledged some pallet cleansers would be appreciated after lunch, but Torin's real goal was to satisfy his sweet tooth and surprise Thonis with whatever new concoctions were made up for this special event.
(OOC: Spending money on some fine mints/peppermint chocolates for after the meal and some artisan rock candy/extravagant lollipops. Couldn't find candy in any list so I can just knock off whatever DM considers appropriate. Oh, and naturally the dinner candy should come in a fancy package with delicate colored paper!)
Shiyara puts down the alteration she was working on and pulls another small rack from the cramped corner of the small zone of the Rare Rack that she was renting out for the festival. "Blue velvet? A bold choice, how dramatic and mysterious. But it could work...if I had brought any here. Might I suggest...hmm, this?" She offers the small rack of deeper shades, pulling out a shimmering empire-waist gown of emerald and gold brocade and presents it to Ismene, but otherwise leaves the rack open for browsing. "The brighter colors have been popular today, yes. If there is something more specific you're looking for, please come by my shop tonight, in Canal Row. It's the one between the actuary and the wheelwright. It's small, you might miss it. But as you seem like very discerning young ladies, I'll note that most of the dresses I make... She pulls a card out of her own dress and hands it over. "have pockets."
She turns to Viviana and with a flick of her wrist, another card seemingly appears out of nowhere. "And you? I'm happy to make alterations to any of the outfits, although..." The elven woman looks over at a pile of clothes at a small foldable table near her chair. "Well, I'll make sure to have them done by tomorrow morning."
As the group browses, Shiyara goes back to the alterations she was working on. "I overheard that you're looking for tasteful jewelry, I might recommend Ohvor Rendeli's shop, about a block towards the bridge. He's one of the better jewelers I've met in the short time I've been here. Are you from Oppara? Could you tell me what all this to-do about the Grand Exaltation is?" The question sounds innocent enough, but the elf may be more interested in the delivery that the actual answer.
Zahur was returning from the market when the boy carrying his message reaches him. While curious, he only opens it after all the food has been stored and the chores to his two assitants handled. He reads the whole message twice, making sure he understood everything... a chance to attend the Gala, something he was for sure not expecting.
Zahur was a non-nonsense simple man and for a couple minutes though about regecting the offer, feeling he'd be too out of his element in such place, but then decided that if he passed this chance he could regret the lost opportunity for the rest of his life.
Completely out of his element, Zahur enters the shop looking around, suspicious as a lamb in wolf territory, holding the credit letter. Once he sees an elf lady moving around with some clothes, he tries to stop her and ask for some help. "Excuse me, lady, but I believe I need some fancy clothes... I've got an unexpected invitation to the Gala and I have nothing appropriate to wear..." Zahur is a tall Garundi man with about 6 feet and 6 inches of height and weighting around 200 pounds, with his head and faced shaved and a broad smile. While not very strong, Zahur is well built and along his arms and hands, there are numerous scars of both old and new cuts and burns scars. While certainly his best, Zahur is currently wearing simple clothes, making it clear that he in fact needs some new clothes.
"But of course, let's get you fixed up sir." Shipyard sizes up Zahur and strides purposefully around gathering a few pieces. "If you are here, you are looking to impress. We shall make that happen." Clothing in hand, she hustles him in front of a mirror and begins to hold pieces up to him so he can see. She presents a short jacket in burnt ochre, with long sleeves, narrow cuffs, and flamboyant large lapels. Under it, a simple white shirt and slim navy blue pants, with matching sky blue cummerbund and cravat. "What do you think?" While he's looking, she grabs a pair of white gloves. "Complete the ensemble with high black boots, a hat to match the jacket, and these, if you wish not to show off." She leans in and whispers conspirationally, "You know how the nobles can be about those who actually put their hands to good use."
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A bemused smile met her friend's words. Then in a voice to calm Ismene, Viviana answered agreeably, "Deep sapphire blues have suited you well. A velvet gown would be lovely..." she uttered as her friend questioned the Elven seamstress. Viviana reached out and appreciatively stroked some of the satin and lace ribbons hanging prettily in bright and pretty hues. And then in a lowered, more discreet voice, she continued, "And we must have some tasteful jewellery - none of those gaudy baubles preferred by some high-born ladies."
"I do like blue... And velvet would not reflect so much."
Shiyara puts down the alteration she was working on and pulls another small rack from the cramped corner of the small zone of the Rare Rack that she was renting out for the festival. "Blue velvet? A bold choice, how dramatic and mysterious. But it could work...if I had brought any here. Might I suggest...hmm, this?" She offers the small rack of deeper shades, pulling out a shimmering empire-waist gown of emerald and gold brocade and presents it to Ismene, but otherwise leaves the rack open for browsing. "The brighter colors have been popular today, yes. If there is something more specific you're looking for, please come by my shop tonight, in Canal Row. It's the one between the actuary and the wheelwright. It's small, you might miss it. But as you seem like very discerning young ladies, I'll note that most of the dresses I make... She pulls a card out of her own dress and hands it over. "have pockets."
"Ha!" Ismene laughed in delight over the sleight of hand. "How splendid! And I will have need of such. So many things to keep up with!" She carefully considered the Emerald Empire Gown. It reminded her of a sari that had belonged to her mother. She let out a soft sigh as she realized the green and gold would accentuate her olive undertones rather than downplay them. "Well... let's see how it fits. Thank you." She said and took the gown to the dressing rooms.
Casting a glance at Ismere, she added, "Will you be purchasing a matching fan? I cannot see you with one of those lace and ivory stick folding fans. Perhaps a hand-painted one to match your gown. Last gala I saw a few with feathers and jewels and they were quite extravagant. Although, you having one in smaller, deep blue feathers may be quite smart."
"I don't know... it is just another thing to hold. I might just get some new hair ornaments." Her hair was the one major concession to beauty that Ismene always insisted on. One's coiffure was very important among Taldan Nobility, especially to Noble Ladies. Ismene's was always elaborately plaited and arranged with her favorite gems and charms. Most of them gifts from her father.
She came out from the dressing room, wearing the Emerald Empire Gown, which fit her remarkably well. "What do you think?" She asked Vivianna and Shiyara..As the group browses, Shiyara goes back to the alterations she was working on. "I overheard that you're looking for tasteful jewelry, I might recommend Ohvor Rendeli's shop, about a block towards the bridge. He's one of the better jewelers I've met in the short time I've been here. Are you from Oppara? Could you tell me what all this to-do about the Grand Exaltation is?" The question sounds innocent enough, but the elf may be more interested in the delivery that the actual answer.
"It's quite the affair, of course. And they are voting on the Primogeniture repeal in the Senate. Very exciting! Was there something specific you wanted to know?" Ismene went to the window to ask Shiyara to point out the direction she meant for the jeweler's shop when she noticed Arthur Stavian performing in the square outside. She paused, her arms crossed over her bosom and a wry look upon her face. "Vivi, come look. The Royal Rascal is up to his tricks again. Do you know some people think that performer is not really him. That someone uses a glamour to copy his Celestial features and act the fool." She chuckles lightly, "But that fool is most definitely himself." Abruptly Arthur altered himself into the image of the Grand Prince. "Well... not now, of course."
While she watched Arthur out of the window, another patron had joined them in the shop. She smiled as she recognized the tall Garundi man. "Oh! Mamma Crow's!" She blurted, surprised to see him here. "Vivianna, have you tried it yet? Oh, you simply must. He makes the most spicy dish... I can never remember the name, though..."
As Arthur stakes out his claim for performing grounds, he notices quite a bevy of young nobles bustling about to buy up all of the most extravagant fashions and accessories. He over hears a pair of young ladies discussing a recently seen performance.
“Ah, I got to see Mr. Smiles at Duke Talbot’s reception this week — the one where Baronet Jivarus got into a row with the servant — and that jester is delightful. Whimsical and biting all at once, and such grace. A tad off-putting, though.”
Her friend nodded eagerly in sycophantic agreement. "I know what you mean. He does have a rather sharp wit but definitely a dark sense of humor."
That was all he needed to know he had found his place. He performed his various tricks and charms in that effortless way that always made a mistake seem intentional and a great feat like a happy accident. It always put the audience off balance a bit, curious to see what he would do next.
Clearly having captivated the crowd as well as the two comedy fans, a small shower of silver blesses his pack.
But oddly enough, his impressive transformation into the Grand Prince's doppelganger seems to receive mixed reviews. Some were delighted, and clapped all the harder. But there were definitely some boos and jeers in the crowd as well.
Thonis enters Mamma Crow and takes a small table. She orders a glass of a decent red wine and relaxes to people watch while she waits for Torin to arrive. They don't know each other well, and meeting today at the restaurant wasn't exactly a fixed date, but she expects him to show. Thonis rarely has that kind of trouble with men.
On the off chance Torin doesn't make an appearance within a reasonable period of time, Thonis decides she will skip lunch and settle for the drink alone. She's a bit too pinched for funds at the present to spend anything on eating alone. In fact she's mostly counting on Torin to do the gentlemanly thing and pick up their tab at the end.
Between ordering the fancy packaged mints and browsing the various oddities the candy shop had on display Torin ended up spending over half an hour just on his errand. Not to mention a few gold pieces on what he was certain was over priced finely spun sugar. Noticing several young children milling about he purchases them each some of the copper candy and reminds them to be good to their parents. (Marking off 2g, 3s?)
Then, with a paper sack of candy and a gaily wrapped box of chocolates he makes his way to the Mamma Crow. While it was still a touch early for lunch he wouldn't want to leave Thonis waiting. If she was there. He remembered pleasantly one of their previous meetings. At the time he had thought he regaled her with stories of his training after she had inquired into his origins, but in hindsight he realized he had probably just carried on after being asked a courteous question.
Reminding himself to make more polite conversation this time he hurried on his way. As he made his way to the restaurant he found Thonis there with a glass of wine and smiled while lifting his free hand in greeting.
"My lady." he greeted her after walking over to her table, "I was hoping you'd be here. May I join you for lunch?"
She carefully considered the Emerald Empire Gown. It reminded her of a sari that had belonged to her mother. She let out a soft sigh as she realized the green and gold would accentuate her olive undertones rather than downplay them. "Well... let's see how it fits. Thank you." She said and took the gown to the dressing rooms.[...] She came out from the dressing room, wearing the Emerald Empire Gown, which fit her remarkably well. "What do you think?" She asked Vivianna and Shiyara..
The seamstress goes about her business as Ismene tries on the dress, not picking up on the other woman's disappointment. When she comes out of the dressing room, Shiyara beams. "You look radiant, darling. Your complexion positively glows, you are beautiful. Now, is this your perfect dress, or would you like to continue looking?"
The Mamma Crow is not a big place, having around eight tables, both round and rectangular, with seats from 2 to eight. The tables are all different as are the chairs, benchs and table cloths. On the walls, numerous objects stand as if on display, from simple farming instruments to animal trophies and even pottery and objects of art of foreign origin, Yamasan in fact if anyone was able to recognize them.
The woman serving Thonis and taking her order is a small Garundi granny, that shakes her head at Thonis request of a "decent red wine". "You don't want wine with Yamasan food. I'll bring what you want, even if you don't know yet." A couple minutes later, she returns with a glass with a hazy drink with crunched lime edges inside. As she tastes it, since the old lady will not leave the table until she does, Thonis finds it a good mix between the taste of the limes, something sweet, and finally something stronger. Happy, she then returns later with a small plate with skin-on fried pork bits with the skin completely crunchy. "We are serving feijoada today... so you better be hungry."
Zahur nods at all of Shiyara's suggestions, not really knowing if he is being scammed/joked or not since he is so much out of his element. He takes all the stuff but doesn't try them, imagining they are good and that was all that mattered. "Oh, thank you lady... and how would all of this cost?" He doesn't reveal his credit letter just yet as he is no fool and is used to barter with the people on the markets. The first rule of bartering was always to never show how much gold you've got to spend in anything.
The alter image only lasts a minute. And he knew he would get mixed feelings from the crowd but not many actors would go that far, so it would be a delight even to those that booed him. He collects the coppers and silvers that some had thrown to him on the ground. Then he looked around to see if anyone still wanted a show.
Though to anyone still around would see him head to the Rare Rack. Upon entering he would see Ismene wearing the wonderful dress, and he would gush, "Oh my Ismene I would have to agree with the seamstress, you always look elegant and beautiful but it accentuates you in many ways, my lady." With that he bows with a flourish. Raising his bow slowly to take it all in again slowly.
Though to anyone still around would see him head to the Rare Rack. Upon entering he would see Ismene wearing the wonderful dress, and he would gush, "Oh my Ismene I would have to agree with the seamstress, you always look elegant and beautiful but it accentuates you in many ways, my lady." With that he bows with a flourish. Raising his bow slowly to take it all in again slowly.
"You are too kind, my Lord Stavian." She said with an excess of formality, stressing his surname to warn the commoners who walked among them. Not everyone knew about the royal aasimar, who was cousin to the Grand Prince.
"You will certainly be attending the Gala, of course. Do you find it suitable for the event? It will be my first time attending." Despite her demure demeanor, he caught her subconsciously smoothing the dress over her hips. With his approval to seal the decision, she turned to Shiyara, "Yes, I shall take it. Just let me change back, one moment."
She felt much more at ease in her normal clothing. Although still of high quality and fashionably cut, they were much more utilitarian in purpose and well suited to her work in shades of brown, grey and black. "Thank you so much for all your help," She said quite sincerely to the proprietress. "And thank you for coming along, Viviana. I know you have more important matters to attend to than dress shopping." She clasped her friend's hand in farewell and Viviana bid those assembled goodbye. Then she handed Shiyara a voucher much like the one you received in your letter. "I have it on good authority that you will accept these. They are valid for exchange at the money changers."
"Lord Stavian, do you have more shopping to see to? My mistress, Lady Lotheed, asked me to join her at the Tournament this afternoon." She asked him openly, shamelessly dropping names left and right.
He happily stands there watching every curve to Ismene's body. He silently nods at her statement. Then responding positively to your remark, "Indeed, your presence may not be as noticeable but it will please the eyes that are willing to search. Oh I am sure you will find it enjoyable."
For those around him could easily tell he is talking about the dress and the gala but a shrewd person might decipher a secret message in his words. Though Ismene should pick up on it.
He smirks at her and says, "Actually you are not done, you MUST have the right accessories, perhaps some emerald earrings, a braclet, and perhaps a necklace. Come we shall see what we can find. Shiyara, do you recommend a jeweler?"
As Thorin enters the establishment, the conversation of a couple loitering near the entrance drifts in to the patron's ears, “High Strategos Pythareus is back in the capital. Do you suppose that means the engagement between him and the princess is back on?"
"Oh, I hope it does! He’s so handsome; he’ll make a lovely emperor.”
He happily stands there watching every curve to Ismene's body. He silently nods at her statement. Then responding positively to your remark, "Indeed, your presence may not be as noticeable but it will please the eyes that are willing to search. Oh I am sure you will find it enjoyable."
For those around him could easily tell he is talking about the dress and the gala but a shrewd person might decipher a secret message in his words. Though Ismene should pick up on it.
Ismene narrowed her dark eyes behind their tinted lenses and pursed her lips slightly before returning his smirk.
"My Lord's cup of kindness runneth over. I'm sure the Gala's entertainments will leave my head a'spin. I'll need you to inform me how it compares to the last time."
He smirks at her and says, "Actually you are not done, you MUST have the right accessories, perhaps some emerald earrings, a braclet, and perhaps a necklace. Come we shall see what we can find. Shiyara, do you recommend a jeweler?"
Ismene huffed a false sigh of reluctance before she conceded. "Oh yes, fine. I supposed I do need some proper accessories. She did give me a reference earlier. Ohvor Rendeli, I believe it was? Well then, shall we leave these good folk to their business? Happy haggling!" She waved her hand in farewell to those left in the shop as she took Arthur's arm and accompanied him out of the shop.
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It's irksome the the old woman taking her order won't actually give Thonis what she asked for, instead presuming Thonis doesn't know what she actually wants based on the further presumption she will be eating a particular kind of dish.
There are other places that would in fact give Thonis the wine she asked for, but she's stuck where she is waiting for her rendezvous. Thonis takes the drink, sips it, and tells the woman "it's fine thank you." to get rid of her. She blocks any discussion of a food order by telling the old woman "I'm waiting for someone".
Once the woman has gone and turned her attention elsewhere, Thonis eats the bits of pork because she's very hungry. They're tasty and don't last long.
When Thonis sees Torin arrive she raises her hand to signal him. As soon as he's seated she asks him "Have you ever been here before? I've heard all sorts of good things, but I'm beginning to wonder about it. They just ignore what one asks for and instead bring whatever they feel like bringing."
Torin quickly takes his seat and offers Thonis an amused smile. "My master enjoys the food." he offers in explanation. Truthfully, he didn't get to eat much food outside of fueling his training. Whenever he got to eat here it was eye opening. Turning to spot the older woman Torin waves to her while smiling happily.
He looks to the small empty plate but pointedly looks back to Thonis. "I apologize if I make you wait." he offers, "I was doing a bit of shopping." As further explanation he draws a pastel and white spiraled lolly from a paper bag of sweets and presents it to her.
After handing her the sweet his hand returns to his tunic, smoothing it after he had taken his seat and perhaps wrinkled it. "I seem to have gotten a new admirer." he says, "I wasn't sure if it was your doing, but they wanted to meet tomorrow after the tournament. They even gave me a voucher for new clothing if I needed it." His expression soured at the thought his clothing might be seen as too little.
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Thonis regards the lolly in about the same way one would a puppy happily offering up a bone it had dug up in the gardens. It's so cute, but... Maybe he doesn't get out and about much.
"Thank you. You're very sweet" she says to Torin as she takes the lolly and puts it away in her bag.
When Torin goes on to mention a new 'admirer', Thonis immediately interprets it as a ploy to to increase her interest in him by trying to make her jealous. It's not an uncommon move, but one that can't work so early, and one which must be implemented by showing, not telling.
Thonis' view of Torin begins to dim until he gets further in, then he definitely catches her attention. "No, it's none of my doing. It's also a very strange coincidence. I received a letter yesterday with the same contents, down to the offer of new clothing from a recommended shop." Where is the clothier your letter mentioned?"
Until Torin mentioned his own letter, Thonis hadn't known what to make of the one she'd received. She intended to follow up on it, but with the expectation it was some kind of practical joke. She didn't get invitations anymore. But she knew plenty of people callous enough to kick her when she's down.
"The Rare Rack." Torin answers straight away. He looked carefully at Thonis' expression.
He had been jokingly asking if the cunning noble had set the entire thing up, and her admitting to a similar letter elevated his interest in tomorrow's meeting from amusement to genuine concern. Thonis was perhaps his one decent acquaintance, and someone had already scouted them out?
"So I am already known to someone I've never met." Torin reasoned, "I am behind the game."
Of course he was, and he had been warned many times it would be difficult for him to navigate politics no matter his other skills. He looked down at the empty table before him. After a moment to focus his thoughts he looked hopefully back up to Thonis.
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Zahur nods at all of Shiyara's suggestions, not really knowing if he is being scammed/joked or not since he is so much out of his element. He takes all the stuff but doesn't try them, imagining they are good and that was all that mattered. "Oh, thank you lady... and how would all of this cost?" He doesn't reveal his credit letter just yet as he is no fool and is used to barter with the people on the markets. The first rule of bartering was always to never show how much gold you've got to spend in anything.
The elven woman makes a show of tallying the items, declaring "Forty-five gold, and I'll throw these in for free," as she holds up the pair of gloves.
She felt much more at ease in her normal clothing. Although still of high quality and fashionably cut, they were much more utilitarian in purpose and well suited to her work in shades of brown, grey and black. "Thank you so much for all your help," She said quite sincerely to the proprietress. "And thank you for coming along, Viviana. I know you have more important matters to attend to than dress shopping." She clasped her friend's hand in farewell and Viviana bid those assembled goodbye. Then she handed Shiyara a voucher much like the one you received in your letter. "I have it on good authority that you will accept these. They are valid for exchange at the money changers."
Shiyara takes a moment of examine the voucher, curious. "Yes, of course, this will settle us. Enjoy yourself at the festival, and do come by my shop in Canal Row in the future. I'll be seeing you."
As the others flit about and converse, Shiyara is all business. She takes it all in without comment.
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The old woman comes to Torin as he calls, but apparently hears Thonis words before arriving at the table. She turns around and enters the kitchen. It is possible to hear her voice, angry and speaking a strange language. A couple seconds later a far younger man in his twenties leaves the kitchen. "Pode deixar vovó... eu vou explicar pra eles."
Zahur is a tall Garundi man with about 6 feet and 6 inches of height and weighting around 200 pounds. His head and face shaved, and wearing an appron. While not very strong, Zahur looks fast and well built. Along his arms, numerous scars of cuts and burns mark both accidents of his current profession and scars of perhapas a rough childhood. He comes straight to Thonis and Torin's table. "Nice to meet you and thank you for coming to my place. I'm Zahur and sorry about my grandma... she is highly opinionated and very lovely..." he adds, noticing the old woman as poked her head out of the kitchen to check if he was talking bad things about her.
"This is a small place and Yamasan food is many times slow to cook, so we can't have many different dishes on the same day. Today we have 'feijoada', which is a hearty stew of black beans and an assortment of cured pork, like bacon and some sausages, and other less common pork chops, like ribs, knees, ear, feet and tail. We serve it with white rice, braised Yamasan kale with garlic, buttery manioc farofa, orange and a chili salsa." He finishes the description, clearly proud of himself. "It is very different from Taldan food, but if I can ask you to trust me it is good, I bet you won't regret your decision. It gives lots of energy, but I advise some resting immediately after lunch!"
He then points to the drink in front of Thonis. "We do have wine, but it is just not good with feijoada... Granny should have explained better. Did you like the fried pork? It is called torresmo and I can bring you more."
While imagining the talk between the strangers are more than it seems, Zahur knows it is none of his business, so he doesn't try to understand more than the words that were said. As Shiyara tells him the price of the outfit, he offers her the credit letter, and thanks for help, leaving the shop soon after since he has absolutely no patience for shoping things he believes he doesn't need.
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Ismene narrowed her dark eyes behind their tinted lenses and pursed her lips slightly before returning his smirk.
"My Lord's cup of kindness runneth over. I'm sure the Gala's entertainments will leave my head a'spin. I'll need you to inform me how it compares to the last time."
He happily grins at her with a wink as his only response.
Ismene huffed a false sigh of reluctance before she conceded. "Oh yes, fine. I supposed I do need some proper accessories. She did give me a reference earlier. Ohvor Rendeli, I believe it was? Well then, shall we leave these good folk to their business? Happy haggling!" She waved her hand in farewell to those left in the shop as she took Arthur's arm and accompanied him out of the shop.
He readily takes her arm and steers her out into the busy street. He activates his halo, giving them even more berth than he already was given. He thinks he knows the jeweler but doesn't know if it is Ohvor Rendeli's. As they walk he asks, "Do you know where Ohvor Rendeli's Jewelry store is located. I believe it is just down the street but could be wrong. You would think I would know but alas I don't think I have ever learned the man's name of the jeweler I have been to before."
The monk turns his head, following the old woman as she went to the kitchen to voice her obvious displeasure. As Zahur exited he couldn't help taking the man's measure as he was rather tall and bore many scars. For all his hard training Torin's skin was mostly free of such blemishes.
He nodded as they were introduced to their host, but before he could respond in kind there came an explanation of the food. His gaze clouded as he tried to picture the fare Zahur was describing and he fell far short of the task. The only thing he was certain of was it would have a lot of pork.
Torin responded eagerly to the offer of a new experience for his pallet. "Thank you Zahur, for your explanation. I am sure your grandmother had many suitors before meeting your grandfather." he said, "I will order us both a plate, and more drink for the lady... if it suites her. I will have water." He turned to Thonis, his bright gray eyes looking to her hoping she would accept.
(OOC: Any excuse to roll. His grandmother likely will overhear.)
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Thonis is both astounded and intrigued. "Same here!" she tells Torin. "We both received exactly the same letter on the same day and we barely know each other. Who could have sent them?"
When she overhears the snippet of conversation about Pythareus her blood boils and she balls her fists, but hides her pique. She doesn't want to explain her irritation to Torin, and there's nothing she can do about Pythareus at the current time anyway. She soothes herself by thinking Patience, patience over and over.
In any case by the time the restaurant owner Zahur comes to the table she's moved well past thinking about the restaurant and on to other things.
"We have to walk by this shop on the way to the tournament to get a look, and then go there after you're finished with the competitions!"
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The Oppara Arena is among the oldest in the Inner Sea. The massive stone structure has stood overlooking the River Porthmos for thousands of years. With the capacity to hold up to 20,000 spectators, it has been host to thrill-seeking Taldans for countless generations. It has served both those who seek relief from their tedious professions with a bit of vicarious bloodshed, as well as those who would win fortune and glory. Slaves have been known to fight their way to freedom and fame, and overconfident Nobles to spill out their blue blood onto it’s sands, a rare equalizing force in Taldor.
Both gladiator matches and battles between other less intelligent creatures are held frequently — the arena offers a handsome price for wild animals or more monstrous creatures that may serve as entertainment. On special occasions, the stadium can even be flooded to simulate naval engagements in miniature. Skilled (or foolhardy) warriors from abroad are frequently invited to compete for wealth and glory. Admission is a single copper piece, and it is not uncommon for nobles to provide food and drinks for the entire audience, though it is painfully obvious to all that they do so only in service of an ulterior motive.
But today, in honor of the Grand Exaltation celebration, the Tournament features those who wish to prove themselves against the gauntlet of combatants. The Grand Prince has often selected his own personal guards from those who win the favor of the crowd and word on the street is that he will be in attendance himself on this auspicious day. The reverberations of a great brass horn announce that the Tournament will begin soon and call those who would try their mettle to make ready.
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He readily takes her arm and steers her out into the busy street. He activates his halo, giving them even more berth than he already was given. He thinks he knows the jeweler but doesn't know if it is Ohvor Rendeli's. As they walk he asks, "Do you know where Ohvor Rendeli's Jewelry store is located. I believe it is just down the street but could be wrong. You would think I would know but alas I don't think I have ever learned the man's name of the jeweler I have been to before."
"The seamstress said it was just a block toward the bridge, I'm sure we'll find it."
True to her word, Shiyara had sent them to master artisan who favored elegant, finely detailed designs over great gaudy displays of gems. She showed the jeweler the dress she would wear and he produced such complimentary accessories that they appeared made to coordinate.
When she heard the sound of the great brass horn, she excalimed. "Oh bother, why does shopping always take so long! I really must meet Lady Lotheed, Arthur. Will we see you at the Tourney?"
Thin lips rose broke to reveal white teeth as Torin's smile broke wide at Thonis' suggestion. "I would be glad for the company." he agreed, "Perhaps I will be able to augment my wardrobe." He then turned and nodded to Zahur, confirming the order as his counterpart seemed amiable.
While the food was foreign to Torin one would be hard pressed to tell. He ate with gusto, and while his manners remained acceptable for public any pretense of etiquette was set aside as he quickly emptied his portions into his mouth. Much like a soldier at a mess the draconic monk ate whatever was set before him, and drained his water when he was done in one long pull.
Then, he wiped his lips with his napkin and waited patiently for Thonis.
Adjusting his woolen belt was the final detail as Torin changed for his fight. The simple linen tunic is a poor replacement for his silken clothing, and gone are his silver hairpin and other expensive accessories. His sandals were thin soled tanning leather and linen cord wrapping his feet to them. Only the steel colored trim of the clothing marked it as remarkable in any way.
Torin very much wanted to remain in his better clothing for this fight, and if they were ruined so be it. His mentor had assured him of the importance of looking plain in his match, and he had to trust in that. His hesitation set the butterflies in his stomach off anew, and he took a seat against the nearest wall. Curling into himself and wrapping his heavy arms around his knees he recited one of the few mantras he knew.
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Now consumed by the mystery of the letter, Thonis has lost interest the the details of the meal. She pushes Torin through it as quickly as she can so they will have to to pass by the clothier's on he way to the tournament. She needs to know where it is and if it looks to be a legitimate shop.
She is satisfied it appears to be the real thing, so she makes Torin promise they will come back right after the tournament. She wishes him luck, and finds a place to sit and watch.
He offers his advancement to pay for Ismene's new jewelry.
"I am sure you will see me at the tourney." He says with a flashing smile, then with a wave she leaves and he goes to find his way to the tourney's combatant entrance.
Entering in he goes to the armory and slaps one of his pals on the back. Asking, "Did I miss anything yet? Oh! Where is my Glaive-Guisarme and Lamellar (leather)?! Thanks for holding onto it for me!"
Once he has recovered his main weapon and armor he adjusts his entertainer’s outfit over the armor, which makes him look bulkier than normal, with rolls, and looks for his place. Finding one of the organizers he plays the fool once more, "Oh! Deary me, I have forgotten myself, would you be a swell fellow and direct me to..."
"So long as I'm still standing." Torin said with a smirk, "I promise Thonis." He seemed confident enough he would at least survive to escort her after the fact.
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He follows the organizers prompt and moves over with three other sturdy looking fellows. He nods and asks, "So we are to fight each other, I am Arthur Stavian, I wish you all luck. May the best man win!" He offers his free hand to them.
Torin looks up to the newcomer, his expression blank. He was slow to focus on Arthur and actually look at him instead of past him. As he did he seemed to realize he should reply. "Sure." he answered, "Best of luck."
The monk then went back to his mantra, focusing on the immediate task ahead of him.
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The roar of the crowd is nearly deafening as you step out onto the Arena sands. Across the pit, your sturdy looking opponents enter from the opposite side. They both wear chain based armor and carry sword and shield, a classic choice among would-be Gladiators. A rare nod to the spirit of today's celebratory atmosphere takes the form of a pair of clergy standing on the sidelines in case of life-threatening injury. A whisper circles round that such would not be attendance if certain nobles were not in the competition today.
The rumors on the street are proven true as the Grand Prince is indeed in attendance today, his Imperial Guard standing watch in his personal viewing stand. The great brass horn peals the starting signal, and the Grand Prince tosses down a red sash, and calls for the Tournament to begin!
A grizzled figure in chain mail quickly singles out Torin and approaches without hesitation, he swings his longsword, opening a slice on Torin's thigh and scoring first blood. The crowd cheers as they surge to their feet, eager to see the battle unfold and the blood flow.
Round 1
Red - moves and attacks Torin
Torin
Arthur
Blue
Torin leans back as the sword comes arcing in, but with his feet planted a jagged cut is opened across his thigh. The tear in the loose fabric obfuscated by the blood that is quick to seep out of the shallow wound.
He does not cry out though, he was trained for this. Many times he was subjected to the strike of a blunted weapon before allowed to follow through a kata. Focusing that pain into controlled anger he pivots off his back foot, brings the well of his innate arcane power to his fists, and with his torso twisting he delivers a liver blow to his opponent. Almost as an afterthought his left snaps out toward his opponents chin.
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Round 1
First he announces his arrival, "As we come to clashing weapons I must introduce myself, I AM ARTHUR STAVIAN! Bard extrodinaire and you sir have come ill equipped to face me!" He begins to walk forward and spins his glaive to draw the attention of the eye, though it be just for show as he waits for the attack of opportunity this man in blue might open to him.
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He offers his advancement to pay for Ismene's new jewelry.
"I am sure you will see me at the tourney." He says with a flashing smile, then with a wave she leaves and he goes to find his way to the tourney's combatant entrance.
Ismene argued with him, first about which pieces she would take and how many and later about who would pay. She had, of course, exchanged her own voucher for the dress but as it was a color she did not often wear, she had little enough of her own ornaments to coordinate. Finally she settled on a matched set of necklace and earrings as well as set of carved jade hairpins in the shape of lions.
Ismene failed to notice any significance in Arthur's words as she bid him a quick farewell and hurried off with her parcels to her family's modest townhouse on the northern side of the Canal Row district. She quickly passed off her fresh purchases to Naevia and gathered up her portable writing desk before she hurried right back out. By the time she had made her way back through the street faire and navigated through the crowded arena stands to Lady Lotheed's usual spot, she had just missed the beginning of the first match.
"My apologies, my Lady. I fear I lost track of time shopping. I hope I haven't missed too much. Have you seen Arthur Stavian, yet? He did mention he would be here." Martella merely smiled and pointed onto the combat field just as Arthur crowed his name for all to hear. "Oh! Drat that man! He knows the Gala is tomorrow." She exclaimed with a stomp of frustration before settling into her seat. She balanced the writing desk on her knees in case Martella asked her to take a note and set about to absently nibbling the nub of her pen anxiously as she watched the combat unfold.
Torin buffets his attacker with his fists but find's the man's bulk combined with his armor makes it much like striking a stone wall. But his left connects with a vulnerable chin and the gladiator's head rings back from the blow.
Arthur's opponent, a caravan guard by the look of him, seems unimpressed by his oration but he does appear to mouth the name "Stavian..." as his eyes travel up to where the Emperor sat watching the event. He casts an envious glance at the man engaging Torin before turning his attention back to the royal-blooded Aasimar.
He moves in, raising his scimitar high and slashes down.
Torin's opponent recovers enough from the heavy blow to attack again, stabbing with his longsword. But Torin is easily able to dodge the blade.
Round 1
Red - moves and attacks Torin for 3 damage
Torin - flurry of blows vs Red for 12 damage
Arthur - takes a 5-foot step and Inspires Courage
Blue - moves provoking AoO, attacks Arthur for 4 damage
Round 2
Red - attacks Torin, misses
Torin
Arthur
Blue
Torin was frustrated by the shield intercepting his powerful blow. Thankfully his left came in cleanly, and he felt the jaw crack against his knuckle. He considered it a happy accident. The man staggered, and Torin paused to watch him drop. Only to rock onto his heels as an uneven strike whipped across at his belly.
"Fall!" he shouted at his opponent. He stepped forward and dipped his hips before snapping up with a powerful uppercut.
Round 1
He puts his glaive between the two of them as his opponent advances but fails to connect.
Round 2
Continuing to Orate he would inspire Torin too, with him acting first he gets the bonuses in round 3, "I come from the house of Stavian and that means something, you will not hold out before me and with your rude behavior before no luck shall be on your side but perhaps the monk would accept it."
Another quick strike with the glaive likely fails to get through the man's armor. Arthur winks at the man and tumbles back and quickly dissappears.
The grizzled gladiator sneers at Torin as he turns to deflect another blow with his shield, "Ha! You are no one punch man!"
The caravan guard shakes his head at Arthur's speech. "Who is holding out, mi'lord?"
The guard steps forward in pursuit, slashing again with his scimitar.
But Arthur does not even feel the wind from the blade.
The gladiator stabs again with his longsword, but Torin detects a pattern in the man's movement and narrowly avoids his blade.
Red - moves and attacks Torin for 3 damage
Torin - flurry of blows vs Red for 12 damage
Arthur - takes a 5-foot step and Inspires Courage
Blue - moves provoking a missed AoO, attacks Arthur for 4 damage
Round 2
Red - attacks Torin, misses
Torin - attacks Red, misses
Arthur - takes a 5-foot step and maintains Inspires Courage, attacks Blue, misses
Blue - takes a 5-foot step and attacks Arthur, misses
Round 3
Red - attacks Torin, misses
Torin
Arthur
Blue
As customers filter out of the shop to go see the fights, Shiyara takes the time to clean up her little rented corner of the shop and finish up some alterations. As she does so, a small bluebird alights next to the window, and the elf wanders over and playfully wags her finger at it.
"What's a little bird doing here, huh?"
The bird almost looks like it's checking to see no one else is around before responding quietly, Cute. There's a big tournament happening. Want me to watch for trouble?"
"Of course, little guy!" She grins smugly and tickles the bird under the beak before it flied off to get a good vantage point on the fight and the surrounding area.
"I'll show you a punch!" Torin remarks sourly before he begins a spin that helps him snap his heel up and around toward the man's head. He then continues the rotation aiming a backhanded swing at his opponents temple.
Thonis remains to watch the match, but only because Torin, whom she knows, is in it. She finds the whole thing quite savage and pointless, and can't imagine why anyone would consider gladiatorial fighting entertainment.
This is her first time to a tournament, and it will be her last as well.
Round 3
Arthur continues to spout words to encourage, take a step back and strike. "You may never know my dear man, but be ready to face that which you put yourself against!"