Konstiantina appears dressed in sober garments of dove gray, a sweeping dress that careful examination reveals slits in just the right locations so that she'd not be hampered in a fight. For all that, the only indications of her calling are the holy symbol to Iomedae that she wears about her neck, and the sword that's belted at her hips. Her metallic blond hair is braided back from the temples to clasp the rest of her flowing mane and directed it down over the lowered hood.
She greets her companions with restrained warmth; her joy in seeing them is evident, but she doesn't do more than clasp hands with each before turning to the carriage. She greets the dark haired lady with curiousity, asking her name and studying her a moment before entering the carriage proper.
Pre-occupied, she gazes out the window at the city as they roll by, and only when they enter the house does she seem to become fully present once more.
With Marius and Rose both speaking for her, the paladin is content to follow the group at the rear, though if Martella meets her eyes she sees a mixture of concern and relief that fate has not prevented them from meeting once more.
Just as Martella is about to usher Konstiantina, Lotti, Marius and Rose out of the foyer, a knock sounds at the front door. Martella stops, relief and apprehension flashing quickly over her features - she must be either really tired to let her emotions on display like that, or she has grown more trusting and comfortable in your company.
"Please excuse me a moment," she says as she moves to open the door, one hand moving to the folds of her skirt at her back, out of view of whoever might be on the other side.
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"Getting the door yourself now I see? My, you really have fallen on hard times now haven't you?" A woman's voice remarks haughtily practically bowling Martella out of the way with her brusque entrance.
The first thing the occupants of the room are hit by is the heady scent of exotic tobaccos burning away in the woman's elegant smoking pipe, to the connoisseur these are clearly not the standard varieties of tobacco one might purchase at any general store, pharmacy, or herbalist's hut in Taldor, the sweet notes of currants speak to the alien nature of the product.
Second is that each one of the room's occupants feel an immediate sense of distrust in this woman. There is something about her, and not just the pointedly rude manner in which she was addressing the party's friend and patron but something that makes their skin rise up in goosebumps. Something unsettling that speaks to their very natures.
The woman herself is somewhat tall for a Taldan woman, fair skinned, and with a head of wavy red hair held up in a messy bun with just a single stray strand dangling by her freckled cheek. She wears a daring silk dress in royal purple cut to reveal the absolute maximum amount of flesh whilst still remaining (arguably) tasteful. Several red gemstones dangle from fine gold chains here and there from her dress drawing the eye in strategic locations. Her amber eyes are solely trained on Martella as she rounds on the woman.
"And might I just add how very impertinent of you to summon me out of the blue like this after all you've done! Kimi was just-" The woman stops herself suddenly glancing over her shoulder and seemingly noticing the others standing around for the first time.
There is a hint of hesitation in her voice as her eyes roam from person to person and her tone is now quieter, more subdued. "Oh, I didn't realize you had company." Lisa turns fully towards the other occupants of the room, taking a lengthy drag off her slender pipe whilst studying each individual, a slight frown on her glossy red lips.
As Lisa enters with a snide barb for Lady Lotheed, Marius' eyebrow raises just a bit--both at the overly familiar insolence and the outfit. Something about her puts the nobleman on edge, though, and while his mien isn't outright hostile his bearing shifts to something clearly military, and he watches her carefully.
"I am not too proud to serve," responds Martella, moving aside to make room for Lisa to pass inside. If the rude behaviour bothers her, she does not show it. Her moment of weakness seems to have passed, as she now displays her usual unreadable expression.
"I appreciate you responding to my request, Ms. Lombardi. These are some of my associates, but I am afraid that proper introductions will have to wait. Please, this way."
Konstiantina stands to one side, her eyes narrowing as the new arrival speaks so familiarly with Martella. She's tall, startlingly beautiful, and with platinum blond hair that hangs in twin thick braids down her shoulders. Hair that seems to reflect that light in an almost metallic manner, and which frames her severe expression as she studies Lisa.
She's clad in a sober dress of dove gray velvet, a sword buckled at her hips, the outfit subtly martial but with clear monastic overtones. The paladin radiates a quiet confidence, an inherent dignity, and perhaps... something more, that draws the eyes and gives comfort and confidence to those close to her.
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Lotti's face remains completely unperturbed by Martella's latest guest. Only Wobblekins might feel the sudden stiffness in her hand as she continues to pet him with the same steady tempo, followed by what can only be a very deliberate return to softness.
Lombardi - not a noble, or she would have been addressed as such. I don't recall anyone in her household needing re-employment - veils know I would recall cleaning garments like that on a regular basis. Why would Martella bring her to meet us then? Well, she obviously trusts her, and that's certainly not something the lady is extending lightly these days. Intel? Unlikely - she's played too many card games to show her hand unintentionally. A request? Also unlikely with that tone of voice. A collea-oof!
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Wobblekins yawns loudly and stretches, unbothered by his disrupting of Lotti's train of thought. Gracefully he rises to his feet on her lap, then jumps down from his perch of grey wool to the floor with a heavy thump. He saunters over to the newcomer and sniffs loudly, then sits (the better to look her in the eye) and yowls for attention.
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"Clearly." Lisa condescends to Martella exhaling a snaking trail of smoke that washes through the room before advancing on the others now with a slight smile playing on her lips.
She reaches out towards Konstiantina with a gentle smile, seemingly about to caress the woman's platinum locks when, at the last moment, her fingers instead pinch at the fabric of her plain dress as if testing the material for its quality. "Such a pity." She frowns in a taunting manner releasing the velvet in a manner resembling disgust nearly as soon as she had laid hands on it.
The woman then walks along and stops at Marius looking the man up and down with an expression that's difficult to read but her voice rings out in a surprisingly charming, almost playful, and definitely inviting tone as she jests. "At ease soldier~"
Reaching Rose now Lisa nods gracious, "Good day Lady Talbot, such a pleasure to see you outside of business hours. Please, send my best to your father it's been far too long." She smirks and makes to follow Martella to their apparent destination when she takes stock of Lotti for the first time.
"Black, two sugars, a teaspoon of honey." Lisa remarks bluntly then smiles cheekily at Martella.
"Well, let's get on with this. If you're going to waste my precious time I'd rather it be the absolute minimum amount possible. After that you and I are going to have a little private chat. Girl to girl."
It is then that a sudden yowling catches her attention and Lisa glances down carrying a look of disdain.
That is, until she lays eyes on the little animal before her and the woman's previously venomous tone is replaced by one of absolute delight and sugary sweetness as she reaches down to scoop up His Grace from just under his arms with small squeal of delight. "Oh my goodness! And just who is this precious creature dear Martella? I didn't know you liked cats?! I was only aware of those wretched little abominable vermin you've constructed for yourself!" She snuggles Wobblekins as closely as possible regardless of how much the cat may or may not struggle.
"I must say, I approve!"
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Lotti lets herself raise an eyebrow as Wobblekins snuggles the woman back, making himself comfortable in her arms and purring loudly enough to be felt across the room. Interesting.
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Rose's eyes narrow when the unknown woman bursts in and seems to bully Martella without a care in the world.
She opens her mouth to object...
...then closes it as she appears to ponder something, studying the woman intently.
"Hm... Qadiran silk. Forty-fourth century Varisian cut - allegedly. Perhaps slightly...'accentuated'," The woman comments, following the below-the-navel cut to its end. "Highly stratetic Jalmerayan golden chains with rubies, perfectly complemented with the correct makeup hues - and, of course, today's special scent," she concludes, giving a reserved smile. "Only one woman in court would dare wear such an outfit and get away with it. Lisa Lombardi, I presume?"
The red-headed woman is suddenly called away from her state of cat-cuddle bliss (was just in the middle of some very important tummy rubs) and spins around, once again regarding Rose, this time much more warmly as she sets her new feline friend down gently.
"My, my! Just as one could expect from the proprietor of the famous Tread Rare, you truly do know you craft!" Lisa smiles suddenly in a much elevated mood.
"I must say your dress is quite stunning itself if... a little drab perhaps? I do apologize mellow tones were never to my taste and I dare say, it's positively robbing the world of your natural looks! Why do you hide those assets in the shadow when you should boldly call them forth?! You need a color that would announce your presence to the world!" Lisa gushes.
"That's why I always wear purple, it lets people know my intent, and shows them exactly where I belong to be noble birth be damned." She takes another drag of the pipe and exhales softly. "But I'm glad to know you have heard of me... I've been meaning to swing by your establishment at some point but... work is really riding me lately." She giggles at her own joke even if no one joins along.
Konstiantina's eyes narrow further as the courtesan reaches toward her hair, though she doesn't lean back; a palpable sense of anger peaks just moments after the woman changes tack and pinches at her robes instead.
No words, however; her faith in Martella is great, and she's willing to allow this... charade... to play itself out before allowing her judgement to become final.
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"My, my! Just as one could expect from the proprietor of the famous Tread Rare, you truly do know you craft!" Lisa smiles suddenly in a much elevated mood.
"I must say your dress is quite stunning itself if... a little drab perhaps? I do apologize mellow tones were never to my taste and I dare say, it's positively robbing the world of your natural looks! Why do you hide those assets in the shadow when you should boldly call them forth?! You need a color that would announce your presence to the world!" Lisa gushes.
"That's why I always wear purple, it lets people know my intent, and shows them exactly where I belong to be noble birth be damned." She takes another drag of the pipe and exhales softly. "But I'm glad to know you have heard of me... I've been meaning to swing by your establishment at some point but... work is really riding me lately." She giggles at her own joke even if no one joins along.
"We would, of course, be pleased to have someone of your esteemed reputation among our patronage," Rose nods, clasping her hands and outwardly smiling pleasantly. Honestly, she was actually somewhat amused at the woman's antics. However, that odd feeling of unease that hung around the woman just didn't seem to go away, and judging from both Konstiantina's and Marcus' rigid stares, it wasn't just her.
However, someone had to talk over the awkward silence, and she might as well assume her shopkeeper persona for it.
"If this dress is not to your liking, I can assure it is drastically different from what I wore half a week ago. Just ask anyone you can find. ...Yet, sadly, therely lies the problem," she continues, her features going somber."We've seen an influx of orders for fine funeral clothing, and I'm sure you can imagine why. The death toll for the Senate Massacre was almost two hundred. Call me wearing this dress a show of sympathy at best, or an order to show we can provide at worst. We've lost a lot of good people that day, for voting against Primogeniture. Though, I'll be sure to send your regards to father - he was there too, after all."
"'It's been too long?' Hm. How old is she, I wonder? Did she know father way back in his youth? Surely not... right?"
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"Enough," Marius cuts in an officer's tone, having evidently reached some sort of conclusion. "Forgive me, Lady Lotheed, I do not question your judgement and so I don't question Miss Lombardi's presence here, but this posturing interests me even less than whatever her life story happens to be. We are doubtless gathered here for a purpose, and I should very much like to hear it."
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The young Talbot certainly had piqued Lisa's interest, it wasn't often that she was able to discuss the intricacies of high fashion and the woman's evident grasp of business acumen was beyond reproach. Still, Lisa's expression grows somber at the mention of the many deaths at the Exaltation Massacre she means to speak when Marius' gruff voice cuts her off.
"Enough," Marius cuts in an officer's tone, having evidently reached some sort of conclusion. "Forgive me, Lady Lotheed, I do not question your judgement and so I don't question Miss Lombardi's presence here, but this posturing interests me even less than whatever her life story happens to be. We are doubtless gathered here for a purpose, and I should very much like to hear it."
Rather than being put-off by Marius' coarseness, Miss Lombardi smiles amusedly at his sudden outburst. "Yes, I find myself in agreement with the grumpy youngest Erallan. If there is a greater purpose to our meeting let's hear it."
Returning her attention to Rose Lisa's expression once again darkens and she nods, "Yes, we all lost something over the course of that dreadful night and each of us has our own way of expressing our grief." She glares pointedly at Lady Lotheed and then follows her to their destination sparing one last glance over her shoulder to wink at Marius as they depart.
Well someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning. Still, he does have a rather adorable expression when he's being wound up. Perhaps something to pass the time.
Martella raises an eyebrow at Marius's assertion about not questioning her. "You should, dear Marius. No one's judgement is perfect, and certainly not mine. But you know how the saying goes, a desperate dog will leap over any wall."
Turning away, she leads everyone into a short hallway, turning left and opening a pair of inlaid doors to reveal a cozy library space warmed by a crackling fire that spreads the scent of cedar and pine to mix with the aroma of freshly brewed tea. A friendly catch-dog trots over to investigate the newcomers, wagging its tail, and returns satisfied to its owner's side as she rises from the chair - a woman that everyone recognizes as Princess Eutropia. She wears an elegant, yet practical and comfortable outfit of green velvet, with little jewellery to be seen.
She nods at everyone, gesturing for them to be seated on the sofas, settees and armchairs spread throughout the room. "Thank you for coming. I wanted to express my gratitude in person for rescuing my old schoolmate, Martella. She is a dear friend, and I am in your debt."
The princess directs a fond look at Martella, but it is tinged with sadness. "As much as I would like to be able to reward you properly and let you get on with your lives, I am afraid that there is more that I must ask of you. You are bold and resourceful, yet apparently relative unknowns on Taldor's political stage. Those are all incredibly valuable assets. Now more than ever I find myself in need of talented allies. My father - Pharasma rest his soul - seems to have been convinced my efforts at social reform were the precursor to usurping his throne. Some dear friends feared he would try to kill me at the Exaltation; you may have noticed the Lion Blades on the scene in response. I had never imagined he could... That he had slipped so far."
She takes a moment to compose herself, then continues. "Apparently, in his paranoia, my father formally adopted Maxillar Pythareus in a private ceremony to declare the general his heir. Or so Pythareus claims, and he has presented documentation to support his claim. There are even those nobles who believe the vote against primogeniture could not possibly have taken place, or was coerced by those same elements that attacked the Senate. The Ulfen Guard has sealed the palace and refuses admittance to anyone until the question is resolved. Normally this kind of issue would fall to the senate, but with the senate decimated and no emperor to approve new members... this situation is entirely unprecedented."
She takes a deep breath, straightening her already perfect posture even more. "I don't know if I'm the best candidate for the throne, but I know Pythareus isn't. He's a warmonger and a regressive traditionalist. He preaches about waging war on the 'upstart colonies' and bringing them back into the empire by force. I won't let him march us back into endless war, and I need allies of uncommon skill to ensure our nation's future." She looks every person present in the eyes, one by one. "You each have your own motives to help me, otherwise you would not be here, but in this I need your commitment. A war for the crown is all but certain, and I need to know if you will stand with me."
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Konstiantina's entrance to the room is checked at the sight of Princess Eutropia, but then she strides forward and curtsies with grave dignity, her movements graceful, a testament to a life spent at court.
She does not speak, however, but rather stands and listens with focused intent, a slight frown marring her features, one hand resting on the pommel of her sword, the other upon the jutting bone of her hip. Her focus is total, and when the princess finishes her speech, she does not hesitate.
"Under Lady Lotheed's guidance I have already fought for you, your Royal Highness. Iomedae bids that I act always with honor, and no path before me is more honorable than doing everything within my power to help you secure the throne. With my blade, my faith, and every last drop of my blood I will stand with you and press your claim on the throne."
Rose's eyes go wide in shock as she indentifies none less than the princess herself. "Y-your highness!" She exclaims, quickly glancing at Martella to see if this was really happening. "I- I am so relieved to see you safe! And, of course, we're honored by your prescence," she quickly continues, and does the appropriate bow to someone of her station.
She listens through Eutropia's explanation with the most rapt of attentions. At the end, she nods. "I've looked up to you as a shining example of progress ever since I was little and could hold a sword. Who could ever be more worthy for the throne than you?" she asks. "One way or another, you will gave my support. Though..." There is a moment of hesitation, and she briefly glances at Lisa. "...What task do you require that specifically needs the five of us?"
When Sir Wobblekins chooses that moment to Meow, Rose smiles at the cat. "I meant six, of course."
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Lisa's initial delight at the sight of the large dog (good boy that he was) is swiftly turned into a look of absolute shock. Her usual façade of calm control breaking in this moment of seeing the Crown Princess herself, heir apparent to the throne of all Taldor before her.
The courtesan takes a moment to reflexively check her reflection and quickly make a few pointless alterations to her look. "Y-Your Highness! Forgive me, I wasn't expecting... Oh regardless just a moment!"
As the princess addresses the rest of the party Lisa stands back and listens, digesting all the information as it comes. Her amber eyes flicker back over to the individuals assembled before her. So these nobodies were apparently responsible for some daring rescue of Lady Lotheed during the course of that fateful night? Lisa bites at the nail of her thumb as her eyes narrow on Rose, Marius, and Konstiantina. Interesting~
With the others vowing their services to the Princess immediately, any with an eye on Lisa can see the woman's composure has broken, she looks as though she is practically salivating at the opportunity presented before her, cartoon dollar bill signs may as well be in her eyes as she patiently waits her turn to speak.
After the other have finished gushing Lisa smirks and steps forward from her place in the back of the room offering a respectful bow to the Princess. "Of course my dear Princess, I would be happy to be of assistance to you in this matter... provided the proper contracts are signed and certain... assurances met." The woman has a wicked grin on her lips as she rises up from her bow.
"Not that I don't have a patriotic spirit like these others apparently do, and personally I would just like to say I do respect your policies and the things you've done for my people in the past but, well..." Lisa practically purrs as she rests her hand delicately against her chest. "Much like yourself I am a woman of greater ambition and have... certain lofty goals I would seek to accomplish myself. And, like mother always said, 'if you're good at something, never do it for free.'"
"Your friend specifically sought me out and I assume that means that there is a task that needs doing that is specifically suited to my... many talents." She winks at Marius trying to get a rise out of the man.
"I am a reasonable woman, however, and thus I offer my services to you this first time at a heavily discounted rate. Should you decide you like what I can do... well, we can renegotiate after I've proven myself with whatever task you have in mind. Sounds sensible, no?" The woman takes a drag of her pipe and shrugs. "Besides, it helps that that Pythareus of yours is an absolute pig and I wouldn't mind the opportunity to knock him down a peg or two."
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As Marius recognizes Pricess Eutropia in the chair his first instinct is to salute--before remembering that he's no longer in the phalanx, so the movement is immediately followed by a kneel. Before he can speak, Lisa steps forward and begins dickering like a merchant with the rightful heir of the Lion Throne! Marius only barely suppresses a groan, and has fight the battle all over again when the courtesan turns and winks at him. Kelinahat, give me strength.
"Besides, it helps that that Pythareus of yours is an absolute pig and I wouldn't mind the opportunity to knock him down a peg or two."
"To put it mildly," Marius adds darkly. "Princess, House Erallan is does not have great wealth or influence, and I am not empowered to speak on my father and mother's behalf--but if you'll forgive my boldness I came here fully prepared to swear myself to your cause. I am honored to have the opportunity to do so with you directly."
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"A war for the crown is all but certain, and I need to know if you will stand with me."
Lotti lets the nobles take the lead into the room, her face still carefully neutral as she recognizes the woman standing there. When Taldogis comes over to investigate her and her cat, the old maid quickly moves to advantage of the distraction and pulls a small waxpaper parcel from her pocket. Wobblekins, already knowing what it contains, plaintively yowls once before she drops a piece of dried herring on the floor to distract him. Another piece finds its way into one hand, offered to the catch-dog while the other scratches him behind the ears.
When Eutropia's gaze catches hers, Lotti can't stop herself from standing slightly straighter - even with Taldogis between them. She could make you disappear, an unfriendly voice whispers in her mind. Whatever reservations she might have had regarding Lisa are pushed to the side in the face of the the princess's request. Say the wrong thing and she'll mark you a threat - and a frightened noble will act without thinking. Keep calm, let her hear what she expects to hear.
"A guide, your faithful companion is." Lotti smiles at the memory of the gala, before the nobility had been thrown into confusion. Her eyes meet Eutropia's, but her face turns slightly to face Martella as if gently suggesting that the words once spoken about the dog in front of her apply just as equally to the woman beside the princess. "In this web of intrigues and shadows, trust those like him." Now she steps to join the taller folks, including them in the implied comparison. Clearing her throat, she shifts into a less-dramatized manner of speaking. "I agree with the general sentiment regarding the High Strategos, but I would also dare to hope that the Crown might remember how their actions affect the lives of those not born to the wealth or a noble title." She curtseys, gaze falling at last to the floor.
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Princess Eutropia is far too self-possessed to sigh in relief as the assurances of loyalty are voiced, conditional or not, but a small amount of tension seems to dissipate from her posture, while Martella gives her royal friend an I-told-you-so look.
"Your words of support are very encouraging, and I thank you." The princess looks at Lisa, a slight smile playing on her features. "I would hope the value of an empress's gratitude would be plainly obvious, but you will be paid, of course. I may be locked out of the treasury, but the Stavian family holdings are considerable. In the meantime, the opportunity for profits will abound: new allies and contacts, travel to the far-flung corners of the empire, favours from who knows how many nobles."
She nods to Lotti, gravity returning to her expression. "This is not a war we can win by swords; Pythareus commands the entirety of the Phalanx, and much of the rest of the military is fiercely loyal to him. This is a war we must win with words and guile and allies. We need the people of Taldor to unite behind a single monarch to dispel the military's desire to settle this with force of arms. I don't want the blood of common Taldans spilled to slake some petty squabble between nobles."
With one last look at everyone assembled, she rises, Taldogis eagerly dancing around her legs. "I will leave Martella to discuss the next steps with you, there are other urgent matters that I must attend to. Again, thank you for what you have done so far, and I look forward to your future accomplishments in the service of Taldor."
Once the doors close behind the princess, Martella produces a sealed scroll from inside a sleeve and holds it out. "Please, have an estate."
Not quite liking Lisa's posturing towards the monarch-to-be and not really sure what to make of Lotti's statement, pretty much as usual, Rose briefly catches Martella's eye with a halfway pleading, halfway exasperated look which read somewhere between 'See what I have to work with?' and 'You're REALLY sure about these two, right?'
After all, between Adriel and Mirann, the people brought in by her had a penchant for not sticking around very long. And Lisa in particular seemed like the person to sell all of them out for the right amount of money... which would fit her reputation to a T, not to mention her already active dislike for Martella herself. Was she or was she not out for revenge on her, too? Could have fooled her on most days of the week.
Well, if they were screwed anyway, she could at least try to appear likeable to courtesan and try making the best of things. At least she had a good fashion sense, if a little too daring for her tastes.
Fortunately, the princess provides ample distraction and seems to provide the right amount of incentive staight away.
"Please, have an estate."
"Another one?" Rose asks, grinning wryly as she accepts the scroll.
"Oh, it's the favors I'm counting on the most." Lisa purrs, seemingly unperturbed the subtle admonishment of the ruler-to-be. She was in this to accomplish her goals, not make friends or observe 'proper' etiquette. If Lisa was going to get anything out of a noble she knew to get it in writing. After all, she had been left high-and-dry too many times by the uppity rich and their promises of 'things to come.'
The elderly gnome stepping forth and speaking to the Princess so directly does make Lisa's eyes widen somewhat as she first ponders the impertinence of such before her eyes narrow, honing in on the gnomish woman with a keen interest. Ohho, someone here isn't as they appear to be... Very, veeeerrry interesting.
.....
After the princess has left the room and Martella makes her announcement Lisa coughs and sputters as she was just in the process of taking a hit of her pipe to decompress after such an important meeting.
Quickly she strides over towards the women and snatches the scroll from Rose's hands with a brusque, "Don't sign anything! Let me have a look at it to make sure you aren't signing all our souls away for a water-side hut in Ridonport."
The courtesan begins avidly combing through the document, checking for any loopholes, clever wording, or other tricks that are often contained in such documents.
"An estate you say?" She mumbles as she goes over the legalistic terms of the paper and takes a drag of her pipe. "For all of us to share or individually?" Lisa nods towards Rose. "As, if it is all together, I suppose now would be a good time to point out hat this one can't actually own a thing... not until primogeniture is officially repealed at least. The sensible thing to do would be to place her holdings in a trust until such a date comes to pass so her patriarchs won't be able to sell away her portion of the property, or worse."
Lotti raises an eyebrow as Lisa scowls at the scroll as if willing it to part with any secrets it might be hiding between the lines. “If you would be so kind as to put that where we can all see it,” she suggests, gesturing towards the coffee table.
Lisa shrugs at the gnome and places the document on the table.
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Martella begins to pour everyone tea, finishing with a saucer of cream set out for His Grace. "While I commend your enthusiasm, I'm afraid this little gift comes with strings attached. Remember those 'considerable Stavian holdings' that Princess Eutropia mentioned earlier? Well." The last cup that she pours is for herself, dropping three sugars into the aromatic liquid and stirring, the silver spoon making a pleasant tinkling sound.
"One of those holdings is the Palace of Birdsong, in the Tandak Prefecture. The Stavians entrusted its care and maintenance to stewards about two centuries ago. The princess has asked them to return her family estate, but they refused to even grant her an audience, and instead have begun cozying up to Pythareus." She takes a sip. "It doesn't help that these stewards turned squatters are my own family, or that my half-brother Bartelby has been squandering the estate's fortunes." She gives Lisa a look over the lip of her teacup as she takes another sip.
"While we technically have the authority to demand the estate's return, we lack the power to back that. If we could weaken Bartelby's power base, convince some of the lower ranks of the nobility to support the princess, and gain the goodwill of the common people at the same time... we could reclaim the Palace of Birdsong. And by "we", I mean "you"."
She nods at the scroll on the table. "The Lady Alis Betony died nearly a decade ago, leaving no heirs. We purchased her estate at auction yesterday, and I have taken the liberty of drawing up a few documents identifying one living Betony family scion. Who that will be is up to you, although I have my own thoughts on the matter."
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Lisa nods towards Rose. "As, if it is all together, I suppose now would be a good time to point out hat this one can't actually own a thing... not until primogeniture is officially repealed at least. The sensible thing to do would be to place her holdings in a trust until such a date comes to pass so her patriarchs won't be able to sell away her portion of the property, or worse."
"Everyone here is aware of my family situation, Miss Lombardi, so I wouldn't suspect a blatant mistake of that nature. Still, thank you for sharing your advice," Rose responds diplomatically, though not quite liking the way the salt was casually rubbed on the wound. "It seems she knows her stuff, at least."
She listents to Martella's explanation. "So if I understand correctly, this estate we're 'inheriting' is near the palace of Birdsong, and it is entirely up to us to decide how best to go about weakening your half-brother's position?" A half-grin forms on her lips as she considers the many ways she could practice screwing this person over in preparation for her own brother.
"Though, perhaps before we discuss who will pose as this heir amongst ourselves, I am curious to hear your thoughts on it, Martella. This is technically an assignment led by you, is it not?"
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Lisa immediately perks up upon hearing the name. Her gaze lifting up from the document and meeting Martella's own. "Bartelby? As in THE Bartelby?" The courtesan practically licks her lips at this new juicy info. "I have to say Lady Lotheed you certainly do know how to offer a proper apology. First an audience with the princess, then an estate, and now this?"
The woman smirks and begins going over the document once more. "Not that anything you do could ever truly make up for your blunder but this is a good start.... and speaking of estates, heirs, and the such..."
Lisa moves to take another hit of her pipe and realizes she's out. With a roll of her eyes at the vague annoyance she produces a small, though orante wooden box filled with tobacco and begins the process of refreshing her vice.
"I should think the choice of inheritor here should be rather obvious." She grins like a cat who's just caught the canary. "The three nobles among us have very well known and very traceable heraldry and any deviation to that might cause quite the scandal. Then there is the matter of siblings, patriarchy, and religion... So that leaves us with two real options. And unless Lady Alis Betony was, by chance, a gnome that only leaves one real option." She cooes reigniting her pipe with a simple snap of her fingers.
"Besides, while my mother is a known entity I also come with the advantage of having no earthly idea who my father is and neither should anyone else in this city. That opens up the door to anything being possible."
Rose suddenly slams her hand on the table when Lisa lays into Martella for the third or fourth time in mere minutes.
"All right, that is enough!" She states, her face stern, the earlier friendliness disappearing. "First, I did not ask you, Miss Lombardi! Second, I did not come here to watch a friend of mine get insulted by you over and over to my face. Martella has had a very hard last few days and you are certainly not the only one to have lost something in the massacre, whatever or whomever it is. And frankly, this animosity from you to her has me very on edge and worried about this mission's chance of success. I believe that if we are to continue this pending cooperation, we are owed an explanation on both what that is about and why we can trust you despite it!"
From the lingering gaze on the courtesan, it was clear it'd better be a good one.
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Lotti looks up from Rose’s hand on the scroll to the young woman’s face over her reading glasses. “Do we want the Betony scion to be someone who immediately rubs everyone around them the wrong way?” she asks, voice nonjudgemental. “That would attract attention, which would help the rest of the group operate with fewer eyes upon them.” She leaves unsaid how, if the charade were discovered, that person’s head would on the proverbial chopping block.
“And while I would agree that it is unlikely the latest holders of the noble title were not human, I’ve passed myself off as a human child before and could do so again if there are no other viable options. That being said…” She turns to Martella, her face serious. “You may have hired us for being unknown actors at court,” (again leaving unsaid their new colleague’s professional reputation) “but it would be unwise to discount your experience in the political arena. Please, share your thoughts with us.”
Konstiantina was going to say something, but with the princess's departure the words, suggestions, and accusations suddenly erupt into an uproar.
Thus, instead, she crosses her arms and steps back, a slight frown marring her features, and waits for the furor to die down.
Rose's over-the-top reaction causes the corners of Lisa's mouth to twitch into a frown and her eyes narrow as she glares down at the woman, a mix of disgust and indignation written on her features. "Finally, at last I have some honesty from you. At least your friends ere had the balls to display their feelings towards me openly. I wondered how long you'd keep up that pitiful front before you showed your true colors Talbot." Lisa takes a drag of her pipe nonchalantly.
"As for why you should trust me well, that's because I am a professional, I have a goal which, for the time being, aligns with yours and your dear friend thought enough of my skills to bring me on board in this endeavor so if you truly trust her then that alone should be enough to prove that I am worth my salt also, quite frankly you don't have much a choice at this point other than to work with me. Now that I know your plans letting me go would make me something of a lose end. That is, unless of course you're open to the idea of cold-blooded murder in which case..."
Lisa smirks as she pulls her elegant dagger from its sheath flips it around in her hand and snatches Rose's with her other before slipping the hilt of the weapon in her hand and pressing the blade up to the exposed flesh her own chest. "By all means."
Her eyes meet with Rose's own, unflinching.
"Oh! And, for the record, I don't rub everyone the wrong way. Some I rub just the right way, or so I'm told." She adds with a smile.
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"As for why you should trust me well, that's because I am a professional..."
Marius scoffs. "Not that you've shown."
"...quite frankly you don't have much a choice at this point other than to work with me. Now that I know your plans letting me go would make me something of a lose end. That is, unless of course you're open to the idea of cold-blooded murder in which case..."
"There's a great deal of daylight between allowing you to walk free and murdering you. The Princess is in the next room, if she or Lady Lotheed gave the word I would happily leave you chained up in a dark and dreary basement to contemplate your life choices for a few weeks. It would even be legal. So please, show a little of that professionalism you claim you have and we can finish discussing the job."
"Oh! And, for the record, I don't rub everyone the wrong way. Some I rub just the right way, or so I'm told."
Marius finally loses that battle with the sigh. "Ye gods you're tiresome. We understand, you f&~% for a living, please stop trying to shock us."
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Martella rises to her feet, both palms planted on the table in front of her. "Please, that's enough." She waits for everyone's complete attention before continuing. "Ms. Lombardi, I want to apologize to you with words. I am responsible for your friend's death, and for that I am very sorry. I am responsible for a great many deaths, Rose and Marius tried to warn me the night of the Gala, but I brushed their concerns aside, too focused on the vote." Her voice cracks a little. "I will live with that burden for the rest of my life, but that is a lot better than the pain and grief that hundreds of people are going through right now."
She swallows, then smiles weakly at Marius. "I appreciate your defense of me, and you Rose as well, but there is no need. Ms. Lombardi's attitude is part grief, part posturing, but her skills are real. She gets one free pass, this time. After that, I expect her to behave like the professional she claims to be." She sits down again, passing a hand over her face, a hand that shows the same tremor from before. "And if we can please not talk of basements and chains ever again, thank you."
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Lisa shudders, seemingly truly effected by Marius' words and takes a step back from Rose.
Martella rising up and speaking out draws the woman's attention back from her sudden lack of confidence and composure and hearing Martella's words, her full confession and admission of guilt triggers something within her.
Lisa grips her pipe tightly suddenly down by her side as tears begin streaming down the woman's cheeks, she had been pushing all this blame onto Martella for what had happened while dodging her own guilt completely because it was too painful to bare. And yet, here Martella stood, owning up to her role in the events of that evening even as it clearly pained her while Lisa was the one deflecting and hiding in the shadows. "Sister." She states through the tears her voice trembling.
"Kimi was my sister... maybe not by blood, but by bond. And... the blame is not all at your feet. I was the one who recommended her to you for the job when I couldn't make it. There is blood on my hands in this as well..." She looks down at her hands for a moment before the tears catch up to her again and she buries her face in them again.
"I'm so sorry for the way I've comported myself, gods I've been an absolute boar haven't I?" Lisa gasps away the last of the tears and dries her eyes before looking directly up at Martella.
"I am sorry... Instead of fighting you I should be focused on taking care of the bastards who took my Kimi away from me. Bartelby first among them."
She then turns her gaze to each of the group in turn. "I extend the apology to you all as well, it seems in my anger and grief I took out some of that frustration on all of you. And that was completely unjustified of me. I know you have no reason to trust me after how I've acted but I would ask just that you give me one more chance. I-I don't know that I'll ever have another chance to avenge my Kimi and... I'm afraid I'll need all of your help with this."
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Konstiantina watches these exchanges with a marmoreal expression; her gaze flicks back and forth from speaker to speaker, but she otherwise stands still, only her aura of goodness and confidence radiating forth like heat from a stove.
Hers is a quiet presence, self-contained and firm, but when Lisa's composure cracks she finally moves forward, touching the other woman gently on the elbow as she pauses by her side and meeting her eyes. "I'm sorry for your loss."
She moves on to stand before Martella. "My apologies if I misunderstand the situation. The princess wishes to enlist our aid in regaining possession of a palace? How does this address the Exaltation Massacre, or further our desire to bring justice to Taldor?"
Lisa is, at first, shocked by the sudden sensation as the aasimar woman touches her on the elbow. She had been too angry to notice it before but there was a strange sense of warmth that issued from her. A comfort.
The red-headed woman collapses onto the paladin's shoulder and lets loose all the tears she had been holding back since the announcement. Not even at Kimi's burial had she cried but here with everything out in the open all of those emotions just came pouring forth like a dam had burst and there was no holding back the tide.
Eventually she manages to pull herself back up and dabs Konstiantina's religious garb clean before she wipes her own eyes on a hidden kerchief no one is quite sure where she produced from. "Thank you." She mutters and bows her head respectfully. "And, for what it's worth, your outfit is lovely. The materials are fine and soft... I just prefer bright colors, mayhap you and I could do some shopping together to mend things between us so we can work together adequately My treat." She smiles sincerely.
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"Finally, at last I have some honesty from you. At least your friends ere had the balls to display their feelings towards me openly. I wondered how long you'd keep up that pitiful front before you showed your true colors Talbot."
Not quite at all expecting quite such a dramatic reaction and left with Lisa's dagger in her hand following her confession, Rose sighs and looks away as Konstiantina and the Courtesan have their moment. She swallows away her nerves and confesses something she otherwise might not have. "...If it makes either you or Martella feel any better, when we were warned, I did warn some figures at the gala, ones I thought could help, should Pythareus have gone through with the plan to attack the senate."
She glances at Martella and makes an apologetic gesture. "It was technically against orders, I know, and perhaps I was wrong to do so. But... I think I'd prefer you blame me for that , Martella, than that you keep blaming yourself for not doing anything more. If it hadn't been for you, Marius and I might have never been at the party and there would have no warning whatsoever. And, for what it's worth, one of our friends seemed to think it made a difference. As much as we probably could have, faced with such an extensively planned operation at the very last moment prior to its execution."
She waits until Lisa disentangles herself from Konstiantina's clothes and grins slightly. "Oh, and for the record, I did display my feelings openly; which I do too often, I've been told. Regardless, I do have a healthy amount of respect for your reputation - that much is genuine. Just as there is a limit to how much I can take my friends being manhandled in front of me before getting genuinely angry. I won't apologize, as I believe it was right to call it to a halt. But I do forgive you, for one, and you have my sincere condolances for your loss."
Then she brushes past Lisa and slides the dagger back in its holster on the way. "You have some serious balls," she whispers to her in passing, with a half-smile.
"Right, shall we get back to the mission, then? I believe Lotti and I asked you something too, Martella. Who do you believe should act as the Betony heir, and why?"
"And if we can please not talk of basements and chains ever again, thank you."
Marius dips his head in acknowledgement, showing the grace to look abashed.
"My apologies if I misunderstand the situation. The princess wishes to enlist our aid in regaining possession of a palace? How does this address the Exaltation Massacre, or further our desire to bring justice to Taldor?"
"We cannot hope to match the High Strategos in force of arms, and we would do well to avoid a contest on those terms at all costs. But we can assist in building the Princess' influence and power base while eroding Pythareus' at the same time. It's no masterstroke, but great victories are build from many smaller ones."
"We cannot hope to match the High Strategos' in force of arms, and we would do well to avoid a contest on those terms at all costs. But we can assist in building the Princess' influence and power base while eroding Pythareus' at the same time. It's no masterstroke, but great victories are build from many smaller ones."
"And the Tandak prefecture it's located in, from my understanding as a merchant, is probably a highly strategic asset for both sides of this conflict. It's a large conglomerate of small villages and farmlands, backed up by a canal system that reaches all the way to Ridonport and the inner sea beyond. Essentially the bread basket for at least the nearby cities, along with the infrastructure to have it shipped elsewhere. Both Pythareus and the Princess have to get the food for their armies from somewhere, and any influence there seems invaluable to have. Especially Pythareus, if he has designs to wage war in the colonies outside of the country."
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Having regained her composure, Martella nods once at Rose, acknowledging her point of view on the matter of the Exaltation massacre. "Thank you for that. Now, let me address your points one by one, starting with your question, Lady Mokei." She gestures at their surroundings - the elegantly furnished library in the expensive townhouse. "With most of her wealth locked in the imperial palace and my family refusing to return the imperial estate in Tandak, this was the only asset of value that Princess Eutropia had left - and she mortgaged it in order to fund this plan. Regaining the Palace of Birdsong will provide us both with a base of operations and with a steady source of income. Besides, it's not just about the palace, as I mentioned, and as Rose rightly points out - establishing our influence in the region will hopefully balance that of Pythareus, who will undoubtedly make a move to secure Cassomir and its military shipyards."
She gazes pensively at the scroll on the table, which Lotti had examined earlier. "It looked genuine, didn't it?" She winks at Lotti. "I know you have an eye for such things, and a hand for them as well. I just need to fill in the name. As for who I had in mind, unfortunately the county of Meratt, where the estate is located, is a little... provincial. While part of me would delight at having Ms. Qeb or Ms. Lombardi act as the Betony heir, I'm afraid that the local nobility would not readily accept either, and that complicates your job unnecessarily. As we know, Lady Talbot has certain restrictions imposed upon her by her family, which only leaves Lady Mokei or Lord Erallan. Marius has the advantage of having family roots in Tandak, which makes the connection to the Betonys not too far fetched, while Lady Mokei's heritage and dedication to her faith would lend extra gravitas to your party."
She tilts her teacup, frowning at its empty depths. "Would anyone like more tea? I am going to make a fresh pot."
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Lotti smiles gently as she returns Martella's wink. "Some more tea would be lovely." Rather than dwelling on the fact that a noblewoman had just offered to serve her tea, she turns her attention back to the document - and the cat who has made himself at home in the middle of it.
"If Konstiantina is the heir," she muses out loud, "it would make sense for Lisa to be her consort and Marius her bodyguard. Rose would fit in as an attendant, and I her maid. With how Lisa draws attention like a magnet, the rest of us won't have to bear as much scrutiny. And if Marius was the heir, then we'd have to deal with rumors of him looking to grow his harem." She winks cheerfully at the nobleman, then turns to face Konstiantina. "Of course, that would require you to stretch the truth on occasion. Is that something you... would feel comfortable with?" She leaves unsaid the idea of it being for the greater good, fairly certain that the noblewoman has heard that phrase used many times by folks seeking to use her.
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"And if Marius was the heir, then we'd have to deal with rumors of him looking to grow his harem."
Marius, who was in the process of draining the final dregs of his own tea, chokes on it. Coughing and spluttering, he sets the cup down but continues to study it intently. "My apologies, please proceed," he manages a little raspily.
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Already having some trouble holding down her mirth over Martella's suggestion, Rose chuckles at Lotti's plan - turning into a laugh over Marius' reaction. "Guilty conscience, 'Lord' Erallan?" she teases good-naturedly, then glances between the inquisitor and Konstiantina.
"Though I must admit - between our two divine paragons of justice, I AM curious; which of you feels they're the better liar?" Her expectant smile gradulally drops to a more serious expression. "That is, Lotti is right. Whoever we choose to act as the heir, they'll have to lie, and a lot at that, too. Under scrutiny of people used to intrigue, eventually. Do you feel you can pull it off? While it's true my family imposes certain ties, I could always assume a guise. If the inheritance is faked, the persona receiving it is only one step away."
Lisa manages a sad smile at Rose's compliment, a level of respect for the woman's confidence building within her "So I've been told."
Deciding it was better not to get too involved with the decision making after having been told off so thoroughly the first time, Lisa hangs back and waits for the others to come to their own conclusions spending the time lifting Wobblekins up off the paper and giving him some playful affection.
"I know no one here is asking for my opinion but in case anyone wants to give it any thought I believe Konstiantina would do the role just fine. Lying is... unnecessary... brute... the lazy way out. A better option would be to simply talk around the truth. I do so often as I am... physically incapable of lying without some rather annoying consequences." She looks up from the cat with a bit of a grimace. "It's difficult to explain but suffice to say it has to do with the 'rubbing the wrong way' feeling you've described. It isn't so bad though, it has forced me to learn and adapt. Distract from the truth rather than give an outright falsehood."
"I have no interest in engaging in games of deception," says Konstiantina. "Further, I have no talent at it. I spent my life extricating myself from that world, and would be unable to hide my distaste for being forced back into it. If Marius does not object, I would ask him to position himself as the heir."
"I see. In that case, I would vote for Marius as well. I'm sure his local connections will be of use to him, and us, at some point," Rose reasons. She briefly closes her eyes and rubs her temples, thinking. "And, Martella, could you tell us more of the estate? How big is it? Does it have a standing staff still? That would help in determinining our roles and covers. While Lotti's Qadiran harem approach for Marius is... amusing, we need something that will actually work."
"Given where we're going and the excuse I'd have to come up with to explain my absense, I'm not sure if going as myself is the best choice. Perhaps my role is best as a subdued one for this trip."