Dusk is approaching as you make your way through the city of Oppara. The city is alive and busy as everyone makes preparations for the Grand Day of Exaltation. Despite this usually festive holiday, there is another hum of activity, one that you are all too aware of. In secret corridors, politicians and aristocrats are meeting and plotting to increase their wealth while the common folk of Taldor suffer. Princess Eutropia and her allies, who have grown increasingly vocal over the last few years, have called for a vote to end primogeniture, prompting many passionate arguments in the Senate and in the streets.
All of this goes through your mind as you make your way to the address written at the bottom of the letter you received. You may have been to this particular cafe before, but given it's nondescript appearance and it's location off the main thoroughfare, it's possible you forgot about it. As you approach, you show the seal on the letter to the guard at the door, who beckons you in without a word. The cafe is empty, and long, golden beams of the setting sun dance through the cafe’s smoky interior, highlighting breads, cheeses, and wine bottles behind the only counter. Some tables are grouped together with seven seats around them. Others begin to come in and take their seats as well, though you do not see Lady Martella Lotheed, your host.
As you think back upon the events that led you here, you glance again at the letter you hold in your hand. It is your invitation to this cafe, and includes a specific task that Lady Lotheed wishes you to accomplish at the Exaltation Gala.
After each request was the promise of a payment of 150 gold pieces for the completion of the task assigned to you, as well as an assurance of the extraordinary access and prestige granted by attending the Exaltation Gala. More information is promised upon meeting at the cafe you now sit in with your companions.
On the table is a small, hand sized mechanical cricket that buzzes quietly, and a note leaning up against it. The handwriting you recognize as Lady Lotheed's, and the note reads as follows: I have been delayed by some pressing matters. Please order what you will, converse, and I will be along shortly. You notice that a guard wearing Lady Lotheed's crest has taken up a position behind the counter with a cloth over one arm, ready to serve.
Olnaris had arrived first. His eyes light up at the spread of food and wine, a smile creeping onto his face.
His time on the streets had taught him that a free lunch was rarely free, especially one he’d been invited to in circumstances such as this. Nevertheless, he approaches the guard, ”Good afternoon. I’ve a message from your employer, one summoning me here. Assuming you’ve no poison in the wine or a dagger waiting to plunge into my back, some of your favorites from that spread would be to die for.” He chuckles slightly at his joke, ”The pun is intended.”
"Oh good, I'm not so early so as to be sitting here on my own. I hope you weren't waiting here for too long my Lord." Izalco's voice resonates within the empty cafe, as though he's speaking to a crowd.
"Perhaps I should project a little less." He says with a smile as he tips his hat to the guard and to the other man at the table before placing it gently in front of his seat.
His entire six foot frame is dressed in well maintained and clearly expensive clothing, all blue except for his brown gloves and the white shirt beneath his vest.
He clearly takes the measure of his company and extends a hand in greeting.
"Your face is familiar, though I can not place the name. You're a recent arrival to the Opparan nobility are you not? In case we have not been introduced properly I am Izalco Zespire. I've the scandalous penchant of dropping any authoritative titles, so do not hesitate to call me by my given name."
The nobleman doesn't seem particularly concerned about the secretive nature of the meeting, nor does he sit quite yet.
"If you don't mind my Lord," he says to the guard, "I'll prepare the wine. I'm sure you've been on your feet all day, it's the least I can do." He carefully looks over the selection and chooses a vintage he enjoys, carefully examining the seal on the bottle before setting three glasses aside for the pouring.
Beautifully dressed, yet exhorting a tomboy vibe, Larin arrives in slow steps, not really seeing bothered by the time. In her case, it doesn't look more of a matter of being fashionably late, but more of not showing a true concern for what time it is exactly.
I see you're already here, cousin! - she finally speaks, breaking her silence, as she approaches the table - Please, feel free to pour me some of your choice as well.
As she stops by the two men, she lets out her easy smile and a chuckle. She gently bends greeting them, then extends her hand to be properly greeted. While she doesn't directly talks to the guards, she explicitly smiles at each one in a warm way. It feels that if she was alone here with just the guards and peasants, she'd probably be breaking some jokes, laughing and sharing the food.
Lady Lotheed's letter had been publically delivered, which by itself was enough to know it was Cecilia's services she needed. The contents only further confirmed it; Ethara would not be attending the Exaltation Gala.
So it is Cecilia who enters the cafe, pleasant smile on her face. She's curious who else Martella might be involving; this will be her first 'mission' where she isn't working alone.
"Greetings!" She offers a curtsey, eyes quickly scanning the room. Two Zespires? I suppose that's not surprising, given the family's history of social reform. "I'm Lady Cecilia Volso, but please call me Cecilia. Or anything else you like, I'm not particularly picky about names. I have a distant cousin that insists on Ci-Ci."
She doesn't, but it's as good a way to seem immediately approachable as any.
Olnaris laughs when Izalco addresses him as a lord, "You presume too much!"
He clasps Izalco's hand before taking a sip of his wine before saying, "You'd be forgiven for thinking I was a new arrival to the nobility. My path to my position has been less a straight road and more like a...haunted hedge maze in a long-dead noble's rose garden. That is to say, twisted and awfully morose. No matter, I won't bore you with the details, but not everyone is quite so lucky as to be a part of a noble house that is still intact."
Olnaris takes a bite of bread, wiping some crumbs out of his mustache with a worn handkerchief, the letters OV monogrammed in faded blue thread.
"Ah, where are my manners. I am Olnaris Valkavian," he says as he motions to Izalco and Larin, "And what may I address you as?"
"Valkavian" Izalco says, a gloved finger pressed to his lips. "Valkavian...if I recall we were told bed times stories of your family. Something about a curse was it? I can't say I've ever met any of your family, it's nice to have a different line of blood in the mix for a change."
He smiles at Larin pushing a full glass her way and turning to pour more for the other new comer as well.
" Ah, my young cousin, back from obscurity and already embroiled in our favorite noble passed time. You look more like Aunt Maven every day. I think she'd be proud to see you here, as am I. Good to see I'm not the only Zespire with curious connections."
"And a glass for Lady Volso if you'd like it. It's a pleasure to see so many young faces here. I'm growing a bit tired of the "bearded" ones if you take my meaning. "
A well dressed man with slightly olive skin and a well-kept mustache and partial beard walks into the establishment, putting the note back into the inside pocket of his jacket as he does.
"I do hope that I am not too late. Mother always was chiding me for not arriving 'fashionably early' to events such as these, but frankly Oppara's streets can be confusing to navigate when one has not done so routinely." The man chuckles to himself, taking in the rooms other occupants.
Mostly other nobles, though that one strikes me as having been down on his luck recently...
Taking off his gloves, Tabar gives a bow. "Tabar Ballast, third son of Lord Nasir Ballast. I would be shocked if any of you have heard of either of us this far south, though I do hope to change that. Has anyone seen our... benefactor... or did I manage to arrive before her at least?"
"As the last of the Valkavians, well, I can attest that the rumors of a curse are unfounded. Somewhat. Pardon my lack of directness. A wise man does not play all his cards on the first hand."
He studies Izalco and Larin, "The Zespires are senatorial stock, are they not? How distinguished."
Cecilia smiles as she accepts the glass. "Thank you, Izalco. I see you have wonderful taste in wine." She idly swirls it around while she takes a seat, just as another person arrives. Inclining her head towards the newcomer, she says, "Cecilia Volso, at your service. Don't worry, you haven't missed anything. Judging from the number of chairs, we are awaiting at least one other person in addition to Lady Lotheed."
"As for curses or the lack thereof..." She gives Olnaris an arch smile. "No need to apologize for keeping some secrets. I suspect none of us would be here if we were not comfortable occasionally speaking in riddles. Politics is not a game that always favors forthrightness."
Izalco nods at Olnaris.
"Senatorial among other things. We are of the more influential families as those things go, which is why I speak so freely Lord Valkavian. Little of what my family discusses over dinner does not soon find itself discussed at other tables. I envy your ability to hold most of your cards to your chest."
He flashes a smile at the compliment from Cecilia as he offers Tabar a glass.
"Memorizing all the noble houses was the subject of many lectures I was forced to attend growing up, though I confess I wasn't always the most studious. What sort of ideology do the Ballasts hold to my Lord?"
Taking a glass of wine, Tabar nods to Cecilia politely. "I appreciate your understanding, Lady Volso, as well as your polite greeting. I seem to remember meeting your family once when I was a child at... some event or other. That being said, I cannot recall if I met you or not personally... I am inclined to say that I did not, but if I did I sincerely apologize for my memory failing me for once."
Tabar almost laughs at Izalco as he sits down. "Sadly I am not a Lord, good sir. That honor still rests with my father and will pass to my eldest brother upon his passing. And, for what it is worth, I have no envy or complaints about this. It leaves me freer to pursue... other paths."
He gives Izalco a smile. "As for their ideology and... political leanings... we tend to be more traditionalist than progressive, though just barely so. I tend to be the outlier in the family due to the excessive amount of education I have received over the years. Taldor must begin making steps into the modern era if it is to ever have a proper opportunity to recapture our past greatness. That being stated, I am more in favor of a gradual implementation of reforms, allowing people to adapt to the changes as they are made in a controlled manner."
"Every citizen of Taldor is a Lord or Lady in their own right as far as I'm concerned. We all rule this land together."
Izalco raises his own glass respectively. Taking in the rest of Tabor's words and waiting to see what the others may have to say.
”A respectable position to take, gentleman Ballast, though I favor a more...direct approach. My family was ruined by the scorn and intolerance of the rich and powerful, and I suffered for years as a consequence. I’ve seen the evil that nobility can wreak, and I believe we must revitalize our nation through any means we can.” His voice rises in intensity as he speaks before he pauses, taking a drink and saying calmly, ”My apologies. Now is not the time for a lengthy diatribe. For now, I am glad that we all share a desire for reform and progress.”
He raises his glass, ”So here, then. To a brighter tomorrow!”
Kyralina could not do anything as pedestrian as walking, so she borrows the family carriage under the pretext of dropping her youngest sister to her music lesson. The letter had given her a sleepless night as she turns the words over and over in her head. She had even attempted to decode the text, in case the true meaning was hidden behind a cipher, but all the ones she had tried had only yielded gibberish. And if the letter was coded, it would have been meaningless pleasantries and boring platitudes, not talk of, of... Theft! Surely Lady Lotheed didn't mean to imply that Kyralina should steal the items! Perhaps it was a prank that she wanted to play on Earl Vernisant. Yes, that must be it, in which case she only had to temporarily... 'misplace' the items.
As she steps down from the carriage a short distance from the cafe, Kyralina frowns slightly, chewing her lower lip. Even so, was it worth it getting involved in this squabble between two nobles, both more powerful than her own family? Ah, but there was the rub, wasn't it. Her family was uncomfortably close to being insignificant, so if she wanted to change that there had to be certain... risks involved.
She hadn't meant to be fashionably late, but judging by the animated discussion already in swing inside... ah, well. Best to pretend she had meant to arrive at precisely this time. Swinging open the door, Lady Kyralina Zografu steps inside, stopping to survey the gathered ensemble as she pulls of her violet-trimmed grey satin gloves, a match to her long cloak. Under the cloak she is wearing a long, pale lavender dress with a black lace panel - something suitable for afternoon tea, but not ostentatious. She lifts the veil of her hat, uncovering a pale, pretty face and dark grey eyes framed by artfully curled locks of hair. Her coloration is a little exotic for Taldor, the blonde hair likely an echo of a distant Ulfen ancestor.
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen." She takes in the room, noting the people she knows, or knows about. Oh my, two Zespires! Starting to feel a little better about this gamble, she introduces herself with a small curtsy. "Kyralina Licina, at your service."
Cecilia raises an eyebrow as Tabar speaks, trying to gauge the mood of the room. Two Zespires, a family known for reformist sympathies, one former nobleman down on his luck, and another from the outer provinces. And me, of course.
"I understand what you mean about freedom, Lord Ballast. I am my father's only child, but he is more concerned with arranging a suitable betrothal than with monitoring my activities. Such is the fate of a daughter." She laughs lightly, although there is the faintest hint of bitterness underneath her tone. "It does allow for a great deal of freedom not overwise known to the nobility. If we are to speak about idealogies, my family tends towards the traditionalist side of things. Where I stand, well...the fact that I am here should speak volumes." To agree without agreeing was one of the earliest conversational tricks she had learned. Not the most subtle, but still useful. Later, once she knows these people better, she will have an idea of what opinions are and are not safe to hold.
"We all must do our part to ensure this country's success," she adds, raising her own glass in response to Izalco's toast. At that moment another person walks in, and she turns in surprise to acknowledge her. "Lady Licina! I must confess I did not expect to see you here. It is good to see a familiar face."
After everyone has arrived, the door opens one final time and Lady Martella Lotheed enters, dressed in an elegant, yet reserved gown. As she sits, she smiles at seeing Izalco serving everyone. "I suppose I should have expected nothing less from a Zespire," she says. "A glass for me as well, if you don't mind, and then we shall get down to business. Though if I may make a suggestion, the fig jam here is particularly lovely."
After everyone has gathered their refreshments and taken their seats, Lady Lotheed rises. “Let me begin by expressing my gratitude that you have each agreed to meet here this evening,” she begins. "I expect you've already taken time to become acquainted. True familiarity comes with time, of course." Lady Lotheed takes a sip from her wine before continuing. "As you are all aware, my family has no strong sentiment for me, and has chosen to prevent me from obtaining my rightful inheritance. This is only further exacerbated by the boorish laws of primogeniture. The objectives I have tasked you with are designed to help ensure my fortune, and provide a small monetary and political investment in your futures."
Lady Lotheed takes out a cloth bag, upending its contents on the table. Six large, aged badges, displaying a serpent wrestling a unicorn, clatter out, spreading apart. "Of course to make the right connections, you will need to be in the right places. These badges belonged to the staff of Senator Voritas, whose family was involved in the senate for approximately 1000 years. Unfortunately for them, their line died out some 100 years ago. The badges of dead or exiled senators are typically handed out as gifts or purchased for use, and while the dead line of Voritas will be recognized, no one will think twice about you appearing with these at the Exaltation Gala."
As the badges are handed out, Lady Lotheed continues to explain. "Each badge will allow you to communicate with me - I will be wearing the badge of Senator Voritas himself, as I also have no place in the Senate. Should you run into any difficulty with your tasks, I suggest you enlist your companions for help before turning to me, as I have requested your services so that I might be able to relax and enjoy one of these events for the first time in a good long while."
"Should you need to talk to me specifically, I plan on spending most of my evening in the senate gallery, but again, I have assigned your tasks based on my faith in each of your abilities." Relaxing for a moment, Lady Lotheed takes another sip of wine. "I do apologize for getting down to business so quickly, though I do hope you will forgive me for such impoliteness. Now, do you all have a full understanding of your assigned tasks?"
Olnaris reaches for the badge. Unless someone was studying him closely, they'd miss how the one he'd reached for slid across the table into his hand. He picks it up and studies it, "Voritas. If I recall, a distant ancestor of mine was betrothed to a Voritas ages ago. He died before they could be wedded, an unfortunate run-in with a bejeweled ice axe falling off it's hanging. Coincidence is a strange mistress."
He slips it into his pocket before saying, "Are there any key players I should be looking out for at the gala?"
Martella closes her eyes for a minute as she thinks before responding to Olnaris' question. "Everyone that will be in attendance will have their secrets. Though if I were to make a recommendation, Sir Marcian Germande or Grand Duke Avernathus are prime candidates. Both have lived appropriately long lives, and are doubtless to have more than their fair share of skeletons in their closets."
Tabar strokes his stylized beard as he listens to the banter and political thoughts of his fellows. "I understand completely. I have three sisters in a similar... predicament. My elder sister was married a few years back, and is... content is the best way to describe it, I suppose. Happy would be too far of a stretch, but so would miserable. My younger two sisters have marriages being courted and planned as we speak, though it would not surprise me if either just snuck out and left one day. Neither wish to be 'tied down' at all, least of all to someone not of their choosing." He takes a sip of his wine and looks like he is going to continue when their host arrives. He stands upon her entrance and sits down when she does.
Interesting. So we all have different jobs. I wonder if there is natural overlap between any of them.
As she asks if there are questions, Tabar nods as he retrieves a badge. One day... Without further thought, he places it upon the lapel of his jacket.
"Yes, milady, I have a question. Do you have a portrait of my... contact... for reference? Or failing that, do you have any idea what he will be wearing tonight? It has been a while since I have had to rub shoulders with such esteemed personages, after all."
Larin took the badge and looked at it with curiosity. She had preferred to hold her silence when her cousin started speaking - and as the other spoke of dangerous politics, she was sure this had been the right decision. She definitely didn't find it easy to trust anyone, nor even Martella; yet, she was aware of her task, and would perform it to the best of her skills - while, at the same time, would keep an eye at each person here.
I understand, milady. - she finally answers Martella's question, yet being brief - Wouldn't we perform better, if we maybe... Share such tasks? Any reason in particular why we shouldn't?
She realized she was daring on challenging the efficiency of the solo engagements, but at the same time she needed to get a better feeling of Martella and her surrounding companions.
"I do not have a portrait on me at this time, but I believe I can provide one in a few days time." Lady Lotheed pulls out a small notepad and makes a few quick jots before returning the notepad to her pocket. "If you would like to meet one of my men in this place in three days time, the portrait shall be available."
At Larin's question, Martella's eyes focus on the young lady. "Perhaps I misspoke earlier. It would be better to say that you are each responsible for an individual task." Martella looks around at everyone again. "There is no reason not to share these tasks, unless you find some reason not to trust your confederates. Lords Ballast and Valkavian could work together in intimidating Baron Okerra, and you, Lady Zespire, could align your efforts with Lady Licina or Lady Volso." Martella's response is not hostile, but she is as direct in her response as your question was to her.
"My Lord Ballast, if you tell me who your target is I'm sure I could make the introductions once we have arrived at the gala. There are few that I have not interacted with in this city, whether they know it or now."
Izalco gives an impish smile as he takes his badge.
"As my cousin and Lady Lotheed suggests, we are likely to be more successful if we can make use of each others talents. I myself will be looking for a particular vintage, but I am more than willing to lend a hand with your tasks if it means assisting our dead benefactor." As he speaks he places a glass of wine in front of Kyralina and hands one to the guard as well.
"Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to host my Lord."
He finally takes his seat. "I am, I think, as eager as our dear host here to see us all in action."
"Lady Volso! What an unexpected pleasure!" Kyralina responds to the greeting and the recognition with a charming smile as she moves to seat herself close to Cecilia. She is about to start making small talk when the arrival of Lady Lotheed focuses everyone's attention.
Although she keeps her face carefully blank during Martella Lotheed's speech, the mention of the primogeniture law has Kyralina balling her fists under the table. This was, after all, the reason that she had agreed to help Lady Lotheed. An enormous gamble, to be sure, but if they succeeded then *she* would be the heir to her father's title and fortune (such as they were), and free to make her own political alliances - rather than be married off to some lord or other three decades her senior. A brief look of appreciation flickers towards Lord Ballast, who seems to show understanding and some measure of sympathy to a woman's situation.
The badges are intriguing - Kyralina was not aware of such a custom of handing out dead senator's insignia to people not of their line. Seeing as the Senate would be key in the upcoming days, she resolves to discover more about the inner workings of that institution. And why Voritas? Was the senator or his family tied in any way to the Lotheeds?
Ah, and now the big question. Should she outright express her concerns about her task? No, better wait for the others to discuss theirs and hopefully glean if they were similar to Kyralina's. Stealing historical artifacts did not sit well with her, but if she wasn't the only one who had to stoop to such underhanded tactics...
"Lady Lotheed, should our tasks be completed, will you have other assignments for us, or are we free to mingle at the Gala?" If she was going to take such an enormous risk, there better be pay-off beyond the measly gold Martella was offering!
Cecilia picks up a badge, examining it curiously, then slips it into a pocket. "Lady Lotheed, may we assume that we can speak freely here?" She casts a slightly pointed look towards the guard. "If so, perhaps it would be wise for us all to share our tasks now, so that we can determine areas of mutual overlap."
Not that she feels there would be any harm in outsiders learning about her particular mission; talking with various senators about primogeniture is practically a hobby these days. However Lady Lotheed has occasionally asked Ethara for assistance with more clandestine activities, and it's possible some of the other tasks are not ones to be spoken of in mixed company. (Particularly given Izalco's comment about looking for a particular vintage. Was he to add a minor poison perhaps, to ensure certain political rivals were too ill to vote?)
Tabar nods at the response. "Thank you, milady. And I would appreciate the introduction, my Lord Zespire. I will confer with you on the details of my task after our benefactor is finished with us today. For my part I am willing to lend whatever assistance I can with any of your endeavors... or with any one else's for that matter. I might not be as socially connected as I would like, but if any of you need some prior research for your tasks I should have the time to look into things before the gala."
"Once you've accomplished your task, the evening is yours," Martella responds. "You may even do so before completing your assignments if you spot an opportunity for yourself. Consider it part of your payment, as even gold has it's limits."
"You may, and I hope you will," Martella replies. Catching your look at the guard, she motions to him with her hand and he heads outside to join his companion at his post outside. "Lord Zespire, I'm afraid you made Walther feel rather underutilized."
Izalco laughs good-naturedly.
"It seems I can't resist an opportunity to handle a good bottle of wine ever since receiving your letter my Lady. The more practice I get, the less likely I am to leave evidence behind. Please inform Lord Walther that I usurped his duties only to ensure our future success." He swirls his glass of wine with a smirk.
"I must admit to some reticence about spoiling such a treasure, but it's all for the glory of a new Taldor."
Izalco retrieves his letter from an inside pocket of his coat and places it in a neutral area of the table.
"If your curiosity is piqued, than sate it. If we are to be colleagues in this night of deception then I won't have it said that I left anything off the table."
Larin looks at Kyralina and Cecilia with a somewhat relieved face. The ranger knew she wasn't cunning or scheming enough to most of the court politics, having always relied on her charms and bloodline to navigate things safely; however, it seemed now the time to get out of the comfort zone was quickly approaching, and being able to share these tasks was a good way for her to smooth her learning curve and put her profile more to the right use.
I'd gladly share my task with you, miladies, and help you to the best of my skills. - she said in a nice tone. She was the only true noble scion between the three of them, but yet behaved in a humble manner.
Cecilia lightly sets her letter onto the table as well before picking up Izalco's and skimming it. "Mine is a simple enough task, I think. Lady Lotheed wishes me to assess Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace to find out their position on primogeniture. I recognize the names and believe I have seen both of them at one function or another, but we've never formally met. Introductions would be appreciated, if any of you know them better." She nods at Izalco, (somewhat amused that her suspicion about poison had not been far off). "There is very little overlap between your task and mine, but you will no doubt need some sort of distraction if you are to complete it unnoticed. I can provide that, if necessary."
She's somewhat taken aback by Larin's humble comment. Strange, for someone of her status...but I do seem to recall hearing that she spent most of her childhood outside the court. "I appreciate the offer, and will gladly accept assistance. Our chances of success are greatest if we all work together. May I?" She holds out her hand and, (assuming Larin lets her have the letter), spends a moment reading it. If she notices Larin's discomfort, she makes no sign of it.
"See, this is a task I can help with. One of the advantages of being from a minor House is that I will likely be under far less scrutiny than someone like yourself. I should be able to keep an eye on the High Strategos' movements without being noticed, should you find yourself caught up in another conversation."
Kyralina peruses both proffered letters as she accepts a glass of wine from Lord Zespire, which she sips with the air of a connoisseur. His task tempers her anxiety, albeit only a little.
"Spoiling a 150-year old wine? My family would certainly consider this blasphemy," she remarks with a half-smile to indicate that it is only a jest. "Our wines may not be as famous as the ones from the Lotheed estate, but they are nevertheless possessed of subtle qualities that only the most refined of palates can appreciate... if you are to believe my father. Gods know, wine is all he ever talks about."
She swirls the wine and takes another sip, nodding at Cecilia and Larin. "I am somewhat ashamed to reveal my own task. Lady Lotheed," she glances at their host with a respectful nod, "must think that us provincials are all barbarians, for she has bade me to, ah, 'misplace' several historical artifacts from Earl Vernisant's collection." This is as far as she dares to go with questioning the assignment she's been given. Surely one of the others would have been better suited to this - like, say, one of the men. Although not Lord Zespire, of course. "I would be much more at home with helping you get into the good graces of your persons of interest, Lady Volso."
”As long as we’re sharing, my task is to sway the crowd in favor of primogeniture. Though hobnobbing with nobles is in my wheelhouse of course, I would be remiss if I did not mention my talents with, ah, covert skills.”
He turns to Kyralina, ”If you find yourself in need of some assistance, say the word and I will put my skills to use.”
Martella laughs softly at Kyralina's comment about the wine, then raises an eyebrow in response to her comment regarding the girl's assigned task. She is about to open her mouth when Olnaris speaks.
After he is done, Lady Lotheed addresses Kyralina. "If you wish to become something more than you are, then there will be difficult tasks in place. I am merely offering an avenue to quicken that transition." She lifts her wine glass and looks into the liquid. "My own family has assigned me a similar status in their eyes, so I can understand your concerns. Please know, I meant no offense." Gesturing towards Olnaris with her wine glass, Martella adds "Perhaps it would assist if you think of your task in a different light. A chance to improve your skills at delegation during a stressful scenario?"
Tabar pulls out his letter and slides it over to the others. "My task is relatively easy, by comparison. I merely have to... remind... Baron Okerra of his debt to Lady Lotheed. I think I can manage that, provided I have the correct introductions."
Cecilia nods, quickly sorting the tasks into categories. "So Tabar, Olnaris, and myself all have particular people to either influence, learn where they stand, or both. Depending on what we learn, Lady Zespire might wish to keep an eye on some of our targets as well." She smiles at Larin, hoping to set the other woman at ease. "I for one will be certain to let you know if I notice any unusual behavior over the course of the night."
"Meanwhile Lady Licina and Lord Zespire will be trying to complete their own tasks. The rest of us can assist by letting them know if we see the items in question, distracting people at crucial moments, or perhaps," (she inclines her head toward Olnaris), "by utilizing certain 'covert skills.'" She considers saying more on that subject, then decides against it.
"That all seems straightforward enough. I don't have any further questions at the moment." She takes back her letter, carefully folding it and placing it into her pocket next to the badge.
Kyralina bristles inwardly at Lady Lotheed's retort, but then reminds herself that it was as she had surmised: a worthy goal means taking risks. And to be in the good graces of such a powerful family was indeed worth it. Lord Valkavian's offer is received with a smile and a noncommittal tilt of the head; her pride nettled, she didn't want to admit that she needed help. She would do this herself and prove her worth to Lady Lotheed. A slight tightening of her jaw is the only outward indication of her resolution.
As she watches Lady Volso recover her letter, she rises from her seat and moves to the nearest candle or source of open flame, taking out her own piece of paper and placing it into the flame until it blackens and crumbles into ash. She then recites a brief incantation and casts a minor spell that scatters the ashes until no trace remains.
Turning to the others, she smiles brightly. "Well then, it sounds like we have all the information we need. I must now direct my seamstress to somehow add pockets to one of my gowns. She will be scandalized, the poor thing."
"I will be happy to make introductions as I am available," Lady Lotheed replies. "If I am not, you should not fear disturbing the waters too much by introducing yourselves to anyone at this event. The Exaltation Gala is meant to be a preparatory event for the Grand Day of Exaltation and the elevation of the common person. Due to tradition, many of the aristocracy will allow themselves to be much more approachable, and your badges will grant you an additional measure of security in this regard."
Lady Lotheed sips her wine while listening to the further discussions. After Kyralina speaks, she puts down her glass. "My dear, and indeed, everyone, if you have need of clothing let me bear that expense as well. I have an account with the tailors at Thread Rare, and can afford to assist you with outfits and alterations as needed."
"I eagerly await seeing your pockets stuffed with historical treasures Lady Licina." Izalco says with a laugh. "I dare say I won't be needing many introductions, if I do I've been failing to keep up for the last decade or so but I'm always interested in new clothes. Consider this a formal acceptance of your invitation Lady Lotheed. I'll make sure to stop in at Thread Rare after making my own arrangements for the gala."
Izalco drains the rest of his glass and seems rather content with the information. He seems ready to leave and get underway.
Olnaris looks down at his own slightly shabby clothes, "You know, I'll take you up on the offer of a tailor's as well. It's been too long since I had a fine outfit tailored for myself."
He raises his glass in a last small toast before he finishes the last of his wine, "I suspect most nobles have forgotten the Valkavian name. I may know of them, but odds are they won't remember me."
Olnaris straightens his collar and says, "I believe I'll head for Thread Rare if anyone would want to accompany me."
Martella pulls out a small card and makes jots a few words on it before handing it to Olnaris. "If you go now, please wait a few moments while I send a man to prepare them." She pulls out a small envelope embossed her initials. "This note will explain that you are to be given a credit and personal attention in preparation for the Gala. Walther will make sure it arrives ahead of you."
Lady Lotheed finishes her wine and stands. "I apologize for rushing off like this, but I have other errands to attend to." With a small curtsy and a nod towards Izalco in thanks of his service, she moves to the door, pausing a moment before opening it. "In the sort of work you're embarking on, the line that divides success and failure is drawn by the people you know. Know that I am counting on you to support one another to ensure success and discretion. If you need my assistance, kindly ask for it. If you complete your work without need of me to clean anything up, I will happily double my promised fee."
"I trust that your activities will not occupy your entire evening at the Gala, so by all means, enjoy the party and make friends. This will be an excellent opportunity for you to begin your own political ambitions, but do be discreet.”
With a final nod, Lady Lotheed exits the cafe, leaving you all sitting around the table and giving you time to prepare for the Gala as needed.
Tabar stands as his benefactress makes her exit, giving her a polite bow in response to her curtsy.
Well, I wanted to find a way to take a seat in the Sentate... with friends like these, I should be able to do so... just a matter of keeping things... on the level.
Sitting back down, Tabar smiles. "Well, after I get fitted for a few updates to my cloths, I intend to do studies on a few things. If anyone has anything they would like me to look into before the big day, I would be happy to add it to my list of topics to research."
The Exaltation Gala -- Knowledge (History)/
Baron Okerra -- Knowledge (Nobility)/(Local)
Grand Prince Stavian III -- Knowledge (Nobility)
refused to have any further children since the tragic death of his only son, Carrius, in a riding accident 20 years ago. With the emperor getting on in years, some people worry how this will affect succession.
Opparan Sentiment (Grand Prince Stavian III) -- Knowledge (Local)
"Feel free, Lord Ballast to visit my family estate to confer with me on anything you might like to know. I extend this invitation to all of you of course, just sent a courier so I'll know when to expect you."
Izalco places his hat back on his head and bows appreciatively at the present company.
"I'll be about the city over the next few days but I'll make myself available for all of you as much as I can."
is another barbarian lording it over us.”
"Olnaris, I will gladly accompany you to Thread Rare. I've never been to that particular shop, and while I have a gown I am curious what kind of accessories they might have available." She laughs. "Besides, I did tell my father I would be spending the afternoon shopping. It would be remiss of me to not come home with any purchases."
She finishes the last of her wine and stands up. "I will be doing my own research of course, but should anyone come across any information regarding Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace I would greatly appreciate being informed. Similarly I will let you all know if I learn anything useful for your tasks. Shall we meet each other an hour or so before the Gala, perhaps at the Zespire estate if that is not too inconvenient, and then travel there together? That would give us plenty of time to share what we have learned."
Once plans are solidifed she gives a graceful curtsey, offers Olnaris her arm, and leaves for Thread Rare.
"This no doubt seems hypocritical of me given how I pushed for us all to share our tasks and skills, but there was something I wanted to tell you that I was not fully comfortable sharing with the whole group." There's a faint hardness to her gaze that was not present in the cafe. "You mentioned 'covert skills' earlier, when you volunteered to help Lady Licina. I wished to let you know that if you need assistance of that sort, you may come to me."
She gives a tight-lipped smile. "I will not claim to be the best at such operations. But I do have hidden pockets sewn into nearly every outfit I own, and am quite good at stealthily secreting small items into them. I have some facility with both sneaking about unnoticed and with disguising my appearance. And while I have no skill with locks, I have supplemented that with the discreet purchase of a skeleton key."
"Of course if there is ever any sort of gossip about this, I will completely deny this entire conversation."
Tabar nods to Cecillia as she gets ready to depart. "I will add their names to my research list. If I learn anything particularly interesting I will send a messenger to your residence with the information sealed." Finishing his drink, Tabar waits a moment longer so as his new allies might add any other topics to look into prior to departing on his own to the Thread Rare.
Olnaris takes Cecilia’s arm, and heads out onto the street.
”Well you’re in luck then. There have been times when my fortunes were far lower than this”
Seemingly out of nowhere he produces a set of lockpicks before surreptitiously secreting them away once more, ”Times were difficult when I was a boy. Locks rarely posed a barrier. I must confess that stealth is not my greatest talent, but I can lie my way out of most anything.”
He sighs before saying, ”I suppose I shall share a hidden talent as well, one that I did not find an opportunity to introduce.”
Olnaris pulls a copper coin from his pocket and flips it. When it would land in his palm, it stops several inches above it, hovering in midair. He snaps his fingers and it hurtles towards the ground, chipping a paving stone before skittering into the sewer.
With a slight smile he says, ”This, then, is the secret behind the Valkavian curse. Not ghosts or some horrid poltergeist, but simply a power my forefathers could not control. Your secrets are safe with me, so I hope you can extend me the same courtesy.”
Kyralina also rises as Lady Lotheed departs and the others begin discussing plans for the rest of the afternoon. "I have the family carriage with me, should anyone like to accompany me to the Thread Rare. I also cannot say no to a new outfit, and I am curious if the tailors there have any interesting fashions in stock." Kyralina's stance and the direction of her gaze conveys that this invitation is addressed mostly to the other two ladies, but she doesn't exclude the gentlemen.
Lord Zespire's open invitation to visit his family's estate both surprises and delights her. This invitation alone might be worth the risk and potential trouble she was getting herself into - making friends of such a powerful family was no small thing.
"I have heard quite a lot about the Exaltation Gala, so I am rather excited to attend this year. I wonder if Lady Morilla will perform, I hear she's back in town from Absalom." She nods to Cecilia. "I believe I have some familiarity with Duke Centimus and Countess Pace, but I confess that Baron Okerra is entirely unfamiliar to me."
Tabar smiles at Kyralina but shakes his head. "I appreciate the offer of a ride, truly, but I find the best way to learn about a place and its people is to walk it among them. I will see you at the Thread Rare, assuming you are not finished with your fitting and departed by then."
At the tailor, Tabar nods. "An interesting tidbit... I have not had a chance to hear her perform before. On the way over I heard that it is expected that the Emperor will be exulting another of his bodyguards, as he did for Baron Vinmark. There was... some consternation over this possibility... what with most Taldain looking on our empereror's Ulfen protectors as little more than savages. Having not met anyone from the region, I can only say that their culture and histories are... different from our own."
"If we are all going to the Thread Rare, I will gladly take you up on your offer of a ride. It will give us a chance to compare notes, and see what knowledge still needs to be supplemented."
"A weapon is most useful when no one knows you have it." She thinks briefly of the spear hidden beneath the floorboards of her room. "Your secret is safe with me."