It’s a beautiful day in Oppara! The chill of early spring clings to the morning air and a pale lavender mist curls above the River Porthmos as the fishermen bring in the day's catch. As the day progresses, the sun rises from her cloudy bed-curtains and stretches high into an azure sky, burning off the last clinging mists and beaming down her warming rays like a blessing from Sarenrae herself. The sunlight shines so golden off the white stone skyline of Oppara that you could almost believe the long-since stripped roofs and domes of The Gilded City had miraculously regained their precious gilt.
Tomorrow is the Day of the Grand Exaltation, where the Taldan nobility will don their finery and make an extravagant show of accepting a commoner into their ranks. Meanwhile, they will put far more effort into furthering their own agendas before the Senate convenes. In a pageant of elegant fashions, they will be vying for advantage. During a sumptuous buffet, they will be jockeying for position. And while Lords and Ladies twirl to magnificent music, who knows what strange bedfellows may arise. And you will be among them. For tomorrow is also the day that the Senate of Taldor will vote on the long awaited repeal of the ancient practice of Primogeniture. And if the repeal is to pass successfully, there is still work to be done.
Today, you have a lunch meeting with a mysterious correspondent. You have come to recognize the penmanship in the missives you have received, but are as yet unsure of the identity of your anonymous benefactor. But an advance of 50 gold and an invitation to the most prestigious social event of the season has more than piqued your curiosity.
You arrive at the appointed time and place and open the door to a quaint little eatery. Long, golden beams of the afternoon sun dance through the cafe’s smoky interior, highlighting breads, cheeses, and wine bottles behind the only counter. And there the riddle of who has been writing to you is solved. Lady Martella Lotheed smiles in greeting as she motions you closer. She sips casually from a steaming mug, dressed in an elegant but reserved gown — at least by Taldan standards. A hand-sized brass cricket buzzes quietly on the tabletop beside her. “I’m so pleased you could join me for lunch,” she begins. “Please order whatever you like; the fig jam is particularly lovely here. And feel free to speak candidly. I’ve taken measures to ensure our privacy.” She says with a glance down at the little clockwork contraption.
"I know that some of you are already acquainted, but others may be meeting for the first time. Please, do not be shy, introduce yourself. We are among kindred spirits here. If you have any questions, please go ahead and ask. We have a long evening ahead of us, and the better prepared we are the better our accomplishments are likely to be." Lady Lotheed’s warm smile sets you at ease, you think back on what you know about her.
"Your grace, it came from under the doorway, most irregular that you keep receiving these..." the short halfling commented as she showed it on a tray held with suspicion in her eyes.
"Ooo...exciting. A trap, or a friend? A secret admirer or someone who hates me? I'll take that." she plucks at it with an excited hand but is restrained by the swift halfling.
"I will read it first to ensure your safety. You never know in these days."
The halfling will proceed to open the letter and read the line. She moves her hand over the surface of he letter and then places her finger on her tongue. With nothing happening, she will return the letter to its owner.
"You are such a worrier. Ever the spymaster, but what would I do without you? I'm sure if they wanted to poison me, a note would not have been the best method. There are spells for that. Can I read it now?"
The halfing relents and hands it over.
"I think we are nearing the end of this mystery! Summon the servants to do my hair, please. I'm not able to eat another bite with this much excitement at hand."
Nicolette will spring to action with a lust for life and adventure, but the halfling goes about ensuring her safety by sending guards to be positioned in that area nearby the meeting. It will not disrupt her charge or the desired secrecy of this mysterious individual, but if needed, the guards will be there to hear Nicolette call for aid. Without any knowledge of this, the young duchess moves rapidly to get organized and in proper quaint disguise. She would spend the morning gathering information on who it could possibly be before meeting them.
As it turns out, she already knows the person who she is meeting. Nicolette would be taking a simple carriage there, and honestly, wouldn't seem like much as she enters the shop. Various leathers and an outer coat cover her breastplate and a downward turned wide-brim hat conceals her face and nobility. It is clear she is wearing armor and is armed. At seeing Lady Lothheed's presence, it is all too clear her information was correct.
"I wasn't sure it was your writing. It looked so familiar to me but I couldn't place it." "She must have been disguising it from me, tricky minx! I wonder what this is about?"
Her disguise is simple, but it seems to fool those not directly looking at her from recognizing the familiar face. Funny what a hat will do for you too! She is first to arrive and already knows Lady Lotheed well.
Once others arrive, she will greet them with a noble bow of the head (old habits die hard) and will take time to introduce herself to each as they arrive.
"I am the Duchess Nicolette Yardley, you are most well met."
Her smile is genuine, and by the time the others arrive, they will see she has ordered some smoked meats, various cheeses, and a wine bottle. It appears she has been "sampling".
With Edelmira entering, a bright smile creases over the angular face of Nicolette. Drawing her cousin in, she greets her in kind with an embrace.
"Cousin!"
She chuckles once and concerning Kunala and pulls away from the embrace to half observe her cousin's wellness and to be in the normal conversational distance. In her typical excitable dramatizing of everything through hyperbole, she comments, "Yes, although he is not so 'former' for me. In my deep and utter failure as a dancer, I still have so much to learn. We have seen such dancers, fluttering about like celestials on clouds...it's one of my greatest wishes to be able to dance like that."
During the embrace, her wide brim hat lifted up slightly. Her hugs are always full of feeling at the sacrifice of her prim and neat nature. Nicolette reaches up to fit it once more down on her hair before taking a seat. She may look like a random adventurer to the naked eye, but clearly, the noblewoman is not a master of disguise. She sits like a royal with proper poise. She even eats the delectable morsels in front of her like a royal would.
Cassandra arrives at the eatery on foot, as it lay but a short distance from her residence. She knew the place very well, being a popular lunchtime destination.
Leaning slightly against the door, Cassandra pushes it open, ignoring a tinkling bell to signal a new arrival, and quietly observes the room, trying to locate her mysterious benefactor. At the sight of Lady Martella Lotheed, a flicker of surprise flies across her face before she smiles. Truthfully, she rather liked Martella. She could appreciate someone who didn't quite fit into a family group, even if she couldn't understand why some people lacked the gift of magic over others. She notices several other people at the nearby table as well, also seated with Martella.
"The Lioness and the Dancer" she muses to herself, reflecting on Martella's choice of guests. It was easy to see a common theme developing, so far everyone present seemed to be in support of primogeniture, as well as improving the rights of those who had none. Cassandra had heard of both guests of course, she kept herself well informed of any gossip - and prospective members of the senate loved to talk - and she felt relaxed to be in the company of those that shared similar opinions and perspectives as she did.
Taking a sip from a nearby glass of wine, Cassandra spies a nearby chair and seats herself as elegantly as she could, smoothing out her dark blue dress as she did so. Typically Cassandra hated wearing long, fashionable gowns, scandalously short or stylishly impractical - it made no difference to her - but sometimes conforming to other peoples expectations led them to underestimate others - and Cassandra was a great believer in gaining advantages from where she could. Smiling politely, she nods at everyone present.
"I see I'm unfortunately a little late. I apologize for my tardiness. My name is Cassandra Flaminia. Shall we do introductions? I don't think I'm quite familiar with everyone here yet."
"Oh, cousin and Kunala, kinder words were never spoken. I will cherish them and even pen them in my journal so they are remembered forever."
She is that way. A woman to the extreme, but if she can manage to remember to record such words in her journal, she most certainly will. Her mind is a bit aflutter with randomness. Not at the expense of intelligence, reason, or wisdom. You would be a fool to think of her as uneducated, completely distracted, or a moron. She is in full control of her faculties. There are just so many of them.
At the talk of chopping off fingers, Nicolette is visibly disturbed and shakes her head, adjusting to attending to her wine and snacks. She is all too happy to remove herself from where such a morbid conversation would lead. For a time, she will speak in more happy terms to Martella (inquiring about her health, what she has been doing recently, etc.)
Cassandra enters the eatery and the bell catches Nicolette's attention. The light hits Cassandra's emerald eyes briefly and it makes Nicolette smile a little. She will take the lead to answer the sharp-eyed, mystery woman before her.
"Cassandra Flaminia...Oh, what a beautiful name. A quintessential name to match her stunning eyes. Oh, what I wouldn't give for such delightful gems." she would bow slightly and offer her name, "I am Duchess Nicolette Yardley, in disguise, mind you."
She will move to grab a seat from a nearby table for the woman to sit next to Kunala (by design); as her cousin, Edie, would sit near her. From all appearances, it seems like Nicolette is being more casual and "herself" more than she would be if seen in a formal event. In no way is she hitting on Cassandra. Nicolette is just being open.
Then, as if continuing from before her introduction, which she seemed to count as nothing, she voices, "I can't begin to guess what you do for a living Cassandra," she again announces her name as if it was a gem itself, "because if I had your name, and if I did not have these dull brown eyes I could fell nations and nobles with a glance..."
Her eyes are actually quite beautiful, in their own way. Her long lashes provide a natural, womanly look and the "dull brown" she refers to is the sort of brown that almost glows with translucence, like a stained glass window when the light hits it.
She looks as if she is about to continue talking, but then recalls others need to make their introductions and she will instead sit down.
Lady Lotheed greets everyone warmly, like they are old friends, even those with whom she has only been acquainted a short while. She has an easy nature and sips her tea like she has nothing more important to do all day than sit and speak with you.
As Nicolette begins her self-depreciation, he turns towards her, crossing his right leg over his left, putting his hands on his knee, leaning forward; "Duchess dear, those were 'Celestials'! Aasimar, both of them I'm sure of it." He waives his hand at her dismissively. "You dance wonderfully, not like that cow...." Looking from Nickolette towards Lady Martella. Putting his hand back on his leg, clearing his throat looking down, he takes a sip of the wine then returns his gaze towards Nicolette. "Neverminded that outburst, please forgive my rudeness. Your a wonderful dancer and we shall leave it at that."
Setting the cup on the table he gestures towards the brass cricket on the table, looking back at Martella, "Could someone tell me what exactly does this sad little clockworks creature do?"
Lady Lotheed arches an eyebrow at the dance instructor and gasps in mock indignation. "You cut me to the quick, Sir Kunala. I might not be much of a dancer, but I won't have you speak ill of my little pets. I make them myself, you know." She pats the little clockwork cricket affectionately. "You need only walk away a few steps to observe what it does for yourself." She bats her dark lashes innocently and makes a shooing gesture with her fingertips as he moves to bring the Duchess another chair. She chats amiably with Nicolette about a performance she recently attended, acting as if she had shared some particularly salacious gossip while Kunala strains to make out her words from just a few feet beyond the immediate circle of the table. The ladies' voices become distorted and muffled to Kunala's ears, the quiet buzzing of the cricket quite effectively preventing eavesdropping of any sort.
She gives the Vudrani a cheeky wink on his return. "I do have one with a bit more polish and shine for the Gala tomorrow, but this one will do just fine for us today. We seem to still be missing one of our party, so please enjoy your lunch. I assure you that everyone here is a patriot, be at your ease."
Turning to Edelmira, she asked, "And where is dear Hubert today? I would have expected him to be at your side, as always."
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Thadeus drew the arc he saw in his mind with the exacting precision of the finest of watchmakers. The letter he labored upon was not a commission from some noble in the upper reaches of society as had been most of his business over the past decade, but for his wife. He smiled as he recalled what she'd told him to write, and far be it for him to deny his wife's wishes. So he continued upon one of the most scathing and polite refusals he'd ever had the opportunity to put to paper.
He was too absorbed to hear the gentle clack of the mail slot and it wasn't until Terabella, his youngest daughter called for him a second time that he looked up from his work.
"It's a letter for you, Poppa," she said in her sweet voice. One hand held out the newly familiar envelop and seal while the other held to Bassoon, her cherished stuffed animal, though Thadeus had never been able to determine what animal it was supposed to be.
"Ah, so it is! Why don't I take a break so we can read it together?" He grinned and slid from the stool to sit beside his daughter and read the letter with her. She was too young to understand the implications, but Thadeus could tell interesting things were afoot. Today would be exciting.
As the hour of the meeting begins to pass, the door slams open and a wheezing half-orc stands hunched in the doorway. Silver streaks his raven-black hair and beard just as sweat streaks his pale-greenish skin. Ink smears one cheek while a quill is tucked behind his ear. Golden eyes look out over a set of askew pince-nez at the richly clothed assemblage before looking down at his own, much plainer clothing.
"Oh drat, Aelia is going to have me strung up for this one."
"I am sure someone somewhere has recorded you already in that light," she replies to Kunala, "But I will do my best to remember. Such a fine fellow as you should have something positive written about him."
She would allow Kunala to take the chair from her and would simply return to her seat and snacks. Snacks were her breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Nicolette, like Thadeus, is dressed in plain clothing at the moment (in disguise). So when he bashes the door open, he would see her in plain clothes as well. Fearing his arrival, she nearly casts a spell in defense.
"No, that is not Hubert. A half-orc..." she comments, although she is not speaking as such in disdain but rather fascination. "I wonder if he's adventured? He's looking this way."
With a wild look of excitement, she flashes a smile to Martella.
"Did you invite this half-orc to this group?" she asks, almost ready to clap her hands in excitement.
"Ah! How terribly rude of me," the half-orc says before coming inside and gently closing the door. "Thadeus Volus Maximux III at your service. I'm afraid that I lost track of the hours and of my years. I'm not as young as I like to think. I'll be quite alright once I've managed to catch my breath." He gives a slight bow before walking as steadily as he's able to the gathering. Ink-stained hands pull out the last chair available before he settles into with a sigh.
"Judging from the company I now enjoy, I was right in my guess that this was a matter of some import. I guess my most pressing question is why me? I'm an old half-orc with little in the way of influence. Surely there were better options." He adjusts his pince nez to sit more squarely on his nose
"Why yes, in point of fact, he is indeed the final member of our little conclave." Lady Lotheed answered as she beckons the scribe over to the table. "I'm so glad you made it. I did so enjoy seeing your wife perform last week, I was just telling the Duchess. Please, sit down. Order whatever you would like."
Once everyone was seated and settled again, she began speaking to the group. "You ask the wrong question, my well read friend. The one that I would raise is, why not you. You all have talents that I very much hope you will bring to bear on my behalf. Overall, tomorrow night promises to be a historic evening, but an evening of work nonetheless. And in the sort of work you’re embarking upon, the line that divides success and failure is drawn by the people you know. You have your own tasks to accomplish, but I’m counting on you to support one another to ensure success and discretion. If you need assistance, kindly ask for it. If your assistance is required, please give it. And if I’m to be blunt, I would like just once in my adult life to simply enjoy a gala I attend, rather than scamper about with clandestine busywork. Your reward for accomplishing your mission with be payment of 150 gold pieces. If you all complete your work without need of me to clean anything up, I will happily double my promised fee." She popped an olive in her mouth and raised her eyebrows expectantly as you absorb her words.
“I trust your activities won’t occupy your entire evening, so by all means, enjoy the party and make friends. This is an excellent opportunity for you network your own connections or to begin your own political ambitions, but do be discreet.” She reaches for a velvet bag with a drawstring and pulls five ornamental pins with the design of a great serpent coiled around a thrashing unicorn. "You'll need to wear these somewhere on your clothing as they will allow you to access the Senate Floor. Do any of you have questions so far?"
Knowing that perhaps she was about to unload a slew of questions on the older orc, she instead is forced to listen to Martella. Not that she minds, but it halts the wave of assault the elder orc would have experienced.
"I am the 'duchess'," she explains as it wouldn't make sense given the state of clothing she is in, "Duchess Nicolette Yardley."
She is about to unload her questions when Martella starts up again. It is almost as if she knows the never-ceasing question-factory within Nicolette is about to let go. As it turns out, the subject Martella brings up is worthy to pay attention to, as it is why they are there. At the end of her inquiry, a graceful hand rises to show she is about to speak. It moves toward the pin a moment later.
"Yes, I would like to know where you received these pins. They are quite beautiful..."
She will take it and slip it into the inner side of her the small jacket she wears over a most comfortable dress designed for hardy work.
"...and What tasks would you have us do? I'm expected to be mingling, I'm sure."
Cassandra eyes Nicolette hesitantly. She wasn't used to such open flirting from someone as fair as Nicolette and initially wasn't sure how to respond. After a moment, she decides it doesn't matter too much and puts on a smooth smile. "Ah Dutchess, from what I have heard I wouldn't sell your own features short. I hear you break hearts all across the city with the slightest glance." she replies, trying to repay the compliment as best as she can, struggling for a moment to find the correct words.
"As for what I do, I'm just an astronomer, keeping one hand on the political pulse of Oppara as it were. Well met also, Kunala and Lady Edelmira, I have heard others speak most highly of you. I feel fortunate to be present to be in such company" she finishes, before a rather breathless looking half-orc makes an abrupt entrance.
"A half-orc, how interesting" she reflects to herself. Unlike others in the city, Cassandra bore bastard children no real disdain or dislike. She had seen many half-breed children in the orphanage where she had grown up and had seen many as kindred spirits who had shouldered burdens heavier than her own. She had therefore never fully understood why some people treated them differently and quickly rose from her seat, offering the half-orc her hand. "Its lovely meeting you for the first time Thadeus, my name is Cassandra. I wouldn't worry about holding little in the way of influence, I to, do not hold much sway in the city, but I'm sure we will both find ways to contribute too...whatever this is" she trails off uncertainly, realized that while she knew what she was invited to, she didn't know what exactly Lady Lotheed required.
"Thats actually a good point actually, what is it do you need for us to do? No doubt you must believe that its within our abilities." she asks carefully, an elegant frown across her brow.
"Ah. I see." Thadeus lowers his eyes for a moment as he strokes his beard. "I will need to speak with my wife about this before I can accept, but let us assume that I do. I find myself equally curious as the others what talents of mine you could find a use for in such, ah, delicate situations."
Thadeus grins at Kunala's wordplay and takes his hand (and any other offered hands) in a firm grip. "A fellow punster I see. I can already tell you'll be a terrible influence on my children."
Martella takes another sip of her tea before she answers, ”I acquired this lot of Senate aide badges from an estate sale some years ago. They were quite the find, as it's rare to find a full set complete with the Master badge. They will allow you access to the senate during the historic vote set to take place during the Gala, don't lose them as you will be physically unable to enter if you do. You likely won't recognize the heraldry pictured there, they belonged to one Senator Voritas of a Taldan noble house that died off a century ago. It's traditional to distribute aide badges of defunct houses to guests invited to witness senate events. The guards will be aware that you are not sitting staff, though, so be aware that they may be more wary of you, given the ease with which an assassin could abuse this system."
"They are magical items, of course. Yours will receive communication from the Master Senator badge, which I have here." She indicates a larger brooch, identical to your pins that she is using to fasten a yellow scarf to her dress. "This way I will be able to update you or call you to a meeting without sending runners hither and yon to fetch you."
She sips at her tea again before she continues. ”Most of our work will be concerning the vote on whether or not to repeal Primogeniture. Many guests of the Gala will be busy with last-hour persuasion, negotiation, and even coercion and we must be as well to avoid losing ground. I do have a few missions that are open for anyone feeling an excess of initiative. And since you asked first, dear Nicolette,” she quirked an eyebrow at the Duchess and then abruptly turned to Edelmira. ”I will start with you, Lady Stavian. I’m fairly confident that the repeal has enough support to pass, but I do hate loose ends. There are a few senators who have been very non-committal as to which way they will vote. It would be very helpful if we knew more about their position and the reasons behind it. The senators in question are Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace. If you can suss out this information, let me know soon thereafter, please.”
Next she turns to Cassandra, ”You are known for being particularly insightful and compassionate, if you will permit me to say so. I thought you might enjoy meeting a similarly minded soul and perhaps coax him down from his political fence. His name is Baron Nicolaus Okerra. He is not a senator, but his war record and general popularity make him an influential figure — one whose reputation would sway a number of otherwise neutral votes. Fortunately, I can say that he is a good man who genuinely holds the welfare of Taldor and her people dear to his heart. Unfortunately, he is a staunch traditionalist. I have done what I can and he does owe me a debt, but I sense he is reluctant to throw his support our way. I’m hoping you may be able to identify his misgivings and set his mind at ease.”
Next she addresses Thadeus, but her eyes cut toward the Duchess in a teasing manner first, ”Your interest in old books will come in handy if you choose to make use of those quick hands of yours to accomplish the little prank I have in mind, your wife permitting, of course. Earl Calhadion Vernisant has donated a number of historical items to the Arcade of Triumphs in an attempt to smooth over a recent embarrassment at the hands of the Pathfinder Society. Despite evidence of his misdeeds, the man has escaped justice yet again, using his wealth and influence to foist the blame onto some poor, unfortunate scapegoat. If humiliation is all we are able to serve to him, at least let it be complete. ” She sighs, resignedly. ”The artifacts aren’t secured; the senate assumes anyone sophisticated enough to attend this crowded gala would never dream of stealing anything on public display. You can keep the items or return them as you wish, just so long as several of them are absent by the time they are to be unveiled, I will be satisfied.”
[ooc]Mission 5: Theft (Thadeus) To further undermine the influence of the recently disgraced Earl Calhadion Vernisant, Martella would like to see some of the historical artifacts that the Earl donated to the senate vanish from the Arcade of Triumphs before it is unveiled prior to the evening’s vote. Stealing any single curio from Martella’s list requires a successful Sleight of Hand skill check. Martella’s list mentions five items — a buckler, a dagger, a fan, a journal, and a spyglass — but she needs only three of them to go missing to disgrace the earl. You can also appraise the items to determine value before deciding which to take.
Finally she turns to Kunala. ”Of all of your tasks for this evening, the one I ask from you is the least necessary to our cause. It is more a personal favor that I have to ask. Since the death of my father, my brothers have done everything in their substantial power to undercut me. They are adamantly opposed to my inheriting any part of our father’s estate. To prove the point, they are donating a large, expensive bottle of 150-year-old red wine. This particular bottle was given to my father as a gift from my maternal grandmother in honor of my graduation. No one else knows the wine’s history and it would be particularly amusing if their generous donation was found to be embarrassingly undrinkable when it is decanted at the feast. To that end, I have crafted a putrefying agent that will spoil the flavor of anything. They will be bringing in an excess of temporary staff for the Gala, and your quick feet should gain you access to destroy the wine. Be careful to conceal any signs of tampering; it must be drunk at dinner and appear to be of terrible quality or — even more scandalous — a forgery.” She stops speaking to take another sip of her tea while her dark eyes observe your reactions with a smile playing about her lips as she glances Nicolette's way again.
A funny chuckle comes from the duchess at Cassandra's compliment. It is the type that mocks the very idea of such a possibility. People, getting their hearts broken over her? Nicolette's cheeks warm with a rush of red at the thought.
"Hmm, Taldan needs more astronomers like you. In the month of Desnus, I host...usually...4 galas devoted to the stars? We all gather together and watch the unique events that month. You may like it." she comments. "She may very well have been to them and I just don't recall."
Lady Martella begins to speak about the magical properties of the badge and it makes her grin. "Secret communication...fantastical."
At the words primogeniture, she seems to be snapped out of her dreamy haze brought on by orcs, dancers, and magical gear. At the playful sleight by Lady Martella, she'll get a little peanut flicked in her direction, which lands squarely on the chest and falls down into her cleavage. "That's what you get, you brat" It, unfortunately, doesn't have the distracting power she had hoped, as the girl keeps going. With a bit of a frump, she sits defeated and yet listens to what everyone else is doing.
As each passing member goes before her, there is a roll of her eyes. Not because she's entitled and needs to go first, but because it is obvious Martella continually hints that she is about to speak to Nicolette, but then rudely doesn't!
It kind of makes her sad to rethinking about Martella's family doing what they can to make her feel bad. Such a playful, fun, creative woman as she is, she doesn't deserve it. Despite these feelings of sadness, a smug look of acceptance just lays on her face. "What. A. Mrrr!" Despite her thoughts, Nicolette tries to not reveal that she's more bothered by it as she has now stopped and not included her.
"Oh! Oh no, only my pride is hurt. I assure you, it takes more than that to offend my sensibilities." Thadeus chuckles, obviously amused. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Edelmira."
Thadeus puts on a grave mask, but the twinkle in his eyes gives away his true feelings. This is proving to be a most interesting meeting, but he still wants to talk with Aelia first. He trusts her judgement better than his own.
And it isn't as if she doesn't know exactly where he is now.
Long fingers pick up one of the spoons and begin to twirl it with an ease that's almost preternatural.
"I suppose I should be flattered that you would see that I do have many skills with these nimble fingers of mine," he says, his tone as grave as his expression. The spoon vanishes after somersaulting under his hand. He looks up, a slight grin on his face.
"I must admit, you've entranced me." he reaches out with his other hand towards Lady Martella's ear before flicking his wrist and pulling the vanished spoon from behind it. "Much like a street magician entrances a child with his tricks. I am sorely tempted to accept, but I haven't lived a life of marital bliss by being a fool. You should have my answer sometime this evening."
Cassandra nods at Lady Martella's mission, her mind whirling at the challenge and task. "I can handle that task I think...it shouldn't be too difficult. Would you happy to know any arguments or lines of enquiry that the Baron might find...favorable? You have already given me a few avenues I think but it doesn't hurt to have any many as you can for a task such as this one. If not - no matter, I should be able to manage." she finishes, before realizing that Nicolette deliberately hadn't yet been given a mission.
Cassandra quickly glances at her ally briefly, trying to see if she was offended by the slight.
Noticing Nicolette's reaction, Cassandra hesitates for a moment, before glancing at Martella. "Not to be rude, but you may have forgotten the Dutchess here, and I'm sure that she is just as capable as I am. Is she perhaps assisting you with a personal mission of your own? Something rather challenging?" she asks carefully, trying to raise Nicolette's mood.
Noticing Nicolette's reaction, Cassandra hesitates for a moment, before glancing at Martella. "Not to be rude, but you may have forgotten the Dutchess here, and I'm sure that she is just as capable as I am. Is she perhaps assisting you with a personal mission of your own? Something rather challenging?" she asks carefully, trying to raise Nicolette's mood.
Martella feigns shock at Cassandra’s words. ”Have I? What a dreadful oversight!” Then she grins at the Dutchess, ”Just a little delayed gratification for you, my dear Nicolette. I know how you enjoy your little obeisances. A little bird told me you’ve not yet perpetrated your annual prank this year to mark Calistril. What better time and place than at the Grand Exaltation Gala on the final day of the month? There are certainly a number of senators who will seek to vote down the repeal no matter our powers of persuasion. But we can still strive to undercut their influence with a soupçon of scandal! Something that will do Calistria proud.” She says with a smirk as she stands and straightens her bodice, letting the peanut fall to the floor before resuming her seat.
”I will also need some minor errands run and messages passed, of course. And it would be prudent to watch the High Strategos. While we must always strive to bring more friends to our cause, there are some opponents who will seek to cut our very legs from beneath us. High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus is such an opponent. He will no doubt be working against us at every turn and I need someone to keep a close watch on his activities so that we may be prepared to counter. This may work better as a team effort since Pythareus is quite observant and careful.”
He sips the wine and asks, "The wine, can you tell me what vineyard" He purses his lips for a moment. "And what delivery system are we using for the putrefying agent?"
"It is a very rare vintage from a vintner who venerated Sarenrae. I fear that all I remember is that it was a very large bottle with the image of a golden sun on it's label and the cork sealed with red wax. You'll deliver the substance through the intact cork with this." She removes a well wrapped syringe with a long slender detachable needle from the case at her side and places it on the table well removed from the delicious food. "You do not want to get any of the substance on your skin or clothes..." she cautions, wrinkling her nose as if she smelled something foul.
Edelmira inclines her head in a slight nod of regard to Lady Lotheed. ”I shall fulfill this task with alacrity and discretion. Do you have any preliminary intelligence on the Duke and the Countess that may be useful?”
"Duke Leonard Centimus is a half-elven aristocrat who lost the use of his legs in a riding accident. Oddly enough, he has refused to seek out a divine spellcaster to heal the damage. But I fear I know little of the Countess."
”Baron Nicolaus Okerra was something of a celebrity on the tournament circuit, though that is years ago now. He is a widower and has a young, precocious daughter from what I hear.” She answers to Cassandra’s question.
"I must admit, you've entranced me." he reaches out with his other hand towards Lady Martella's ear before flicking his wrist and pulling the vanished spoon from behind it. "Much like a street magician entrances a child with his tricks. I am sorely tempted to accept, but I haven't lived a life of marital bliss by being a fool. You should have my answer sometime this evening."
"No time to lose then! As an added enticement, I have it on good authority that among the items the Earl is to donate is a historical journal that belonged to his great grandfather which details his extensive genealogical work to connect their family line to the Taldan hero, General Arnisant’s legacy. There could be much of interest in such a tome to a connoisseur of the written word, like yourself. And do give your wife my warmest regards."
A delightful smile wanders over her face as Cassandra defends her. Nicolette's eyes flash defiance to Lady Martella as if to say, "What now?", and surely enough, she submits. Nicolette hums happily as Martella gives up the goods and she will subconsciously pop some more snacks in her mouth as she listens.
"I am all for that!" she laughs at the words of there being a scandal. Particularly this month. Before those who are there truly hate her for her delight in scandal, she explains, "I'm certain Martella has picked these particular senators due to their well-deserved backstabbing and nefarious actions in the past to face the brunt of our deeds. I don't want you all to think I go actively looking for scandal. I am all set tonight for my prank though. I was needing to talk to you about playing a part."
She adjusts her dress and jacket, almost seeming even nobler than before.
The Great Caramel Confusion
The Grand Prince is tasked this evening by Nicolette to comment during dessert on how delicious the caramel is this time of year. He will state that the country must have had a good caramel harvest this year to have such a flavor.
This will trigger the Grand Scribe, who notoriously corrects misspoken inaccuracies. He will state how caramel is not grown, but made from boiled sugar.
Those in on the prank will chuckle, to which the Grand Prince will reply how that caramel is for commoners. That long ago, his great grandfather magically manipulated crops through transmutation to harvest caramel of a higher quality and flavor than just caramel made from sugar. It is healthy too.
Everyone at the table, except the Grand Scribe and some few others will be in on the prank. Chefs will be called, servants. All in on it.
The Grand Prince then will command that the scribe educate himself on this manner quite forcefully.
Submitting, and slightly perplexed, Nicolette has prepared falsified books from that era stating in historic record these events, as well as in depth scientific and arcane knowledge gathered from wizards to make it sound more realistic.
The end goal is to get him to go to these reported fields (a very long drive by wagon on bumpy roads), and to inquire after them. In doing so, he will find they never existed, but he'll still have to suffer the long ride back.
------------------------
"We will keep an eye on the High Stategos. He is very experienced. I couldn't imagine my efforts would prevail against such a man alone, but I will do my best to work with these to get it done. If we had him on our side...that would be beyond wonderful!"
She sighs happily at the thought. All of this intrigue has her positively charged. The questions come in and she actively listens to each one of them.
"Oooh, a syringe..." she thinks to herself, likewise making an empathetic disgusted face at the smell of the substance, even though she cannot smell it.
"Duke Leonard Centimus. I do know of him and the countess."
She will unfurl her knowledge on the couple to her companions.
At the sound of the half-orc reading, her excitement overflows.
"You love to read? I love to read! It is one of my greatest passions. I have many books on hand. I do have some books on nobility, heritage, and mental exercises that you may find particularly unique!"
"No time to lose then! As an added enticement, I have it on good authority that among the items the Earl is to donate is a historical journal that belonged to his great grandfather which details his extensive genealogical work to connect their family line to the Taldan hero, General Arnisant’s legacy. There could be much of interest in such a tome to a connoisseur of the written word, like yourself. And do give your wife my warmest regards."
"My dear, I do hope you'll grant me enough time before returning the items to allow me to copy this journal? It would be shameful of you to seduce me so without allowing me my pleasure." Thadeus' eyes sparkle and dance as he lets out a giddy laugh. "I'll be certain to relay every glowing compliment you've given her, milady."
"You love to read? I love to read! It is one of my greatest passions. I have many books on hand. I do have some books on nobility, heritage, and mental exercises that you may find particularly unique!"
"Books and knowledge are my first loves. I often got into trouble sneaking into libraries while others were getting caught sneaking into the bed chambers of young ladies. Still, I was quite good at not getting caught and I poured over tomes in places I really ought not have been. When Aelia and I were first looking for a home, my only condition was a library. I'm not too proud to admit that I was a little bratty in my insistence. I'm also not too humble to say it's grown into a fine place to keep my growing collection. That isn't to say I wouldn't love to peruse your own library. I may be lucky enough to find a few books to add to mine." Thadeus begins to continue his rambling, but just manages to control his tongue.
"Ah. forgive me. I find myself more prone to riding down rambling trails more and more as I age. Must be whatever turns my hair and whiskers white and silver." He chuckles as he picks up some tea to keep himself quiet for a moment and listen.
Hmm, people often let slip more than they realize. I wonder what I've heard about the characters in this particular play?
"You may return the items you acquire after the unveiling of the display, or not at all, at your option. As far as I know, the badges only receive from the Master badge, but I have little understanding of magic, I must admit."
Thadeus would find that while many nobles would shun a half-orc, Nicolette is engaging. One could assume that the beauty before him would act the same around halflings, half-elves, and many other nonhuman races if around a bookworm elderly halforc.
She has a brilliant smile with brilliant teeth. Clean. Aligned properly with a the exception of twp subtle yaeba teeth that only adds to her adorableness. For whatever reason, despite him being an elderly half-orc and not human, and as extreme as it seems, it could perhaps dawn on him that attacking her or holding her against her will would almost be a crime against the living. This is a divine effect. To his senses, and any other who may think on her, such a person could be viewed as someone who should be adored forever.
Despite her friendliness, he and others may also perceive that she is always wary of what is happening. If someone grabs a cup from the counter at the front, her eyes will dart there. Not as someone skittish, but as if she were either a watcher of people or cautious. Such behaviors usually come with repetitive abuse or military training. It would be hard for him to discern which it would be.
"Most certainly whatever did turn your hair silver will make me age far quicker because I am always on rambling trails. Perhaps it's because I feel I have many first loves. The more I learn, the more I have. Some might say I'm far too inquisitive for my own good, but I say the people who title me as much are probably boring," she lets out a bright laugh before continuing with a finger to her chin, "I would be willing to let you read them in exchange for a good conversation. If that's palatable to you?"
The duchess will finish with Thadeus and inquire of Martella, "Is there anything else we need to know?" "This probably won't be much worse than a normal gala event. I find I'm always ducking and dodging questions and people...lying, bargaining, and who knows what else? Ahh...such is palace life."
"My dear, It would be delightful to have a conversation with you at anytime for no reason at all other than the joy of having it," Thadeus says with a boyish grin to Nicolette.
"You are most certainly welcome to peruse my collection, milady. I'd be honored to have your own prints added to the patina of love and care all of my books have. There is nothing more saddening to see text decades old looking as if they'd never once been read." Thadeus smiles warmly at Edelmira, almost as if she were a favored niece before turning to Kunala.
"Now, young man, what kinds of dances require the use of a bed and the participants to be in the nude? What strange fashions have taken a hold of the court these days." Thadeus shakes his head as he speaks with a disappointed tone and a devilish grin on his face and not a hint of shame to be found. "But as I have often told my eldest children, it's not the size of the collection, but the use and love it receives."
Lady Lotheed clearly enjoys the playful banter and smiles warmly over the little cadre of operatives she has collected. Finally as the last questions are asked, she taps her lips thoughtfully with a forefinger. "Dear me, I do feel as if I've forgotten something. Now what could it be? I sent your advance with the invitation, so that isn't it. You all have your tasks and your badges. Now let me think...Ah!" She reaches into her case again and pulls out a page with lines of text written in a neat hand. "I know they're a bore, but you'll need to familiarize yourself with these regulations. You could always try and smuggle something in, but the inspectors will be doing their due diligence."
The Taldan senate houses many of the most powerful politicians in the empire, and while the empire enjoys drama, dueling, and shows of power, certain rules are in place to ensure the safety of visiting nobles and occasionally even their staff.
• Breastplates, ceremonial armor, and light armor may be worn inside the senate building, but no other armor is permitted for anyone except guards.
• Potions, scrolls, spell component pouches, and wands are permitted inside the senate building, and in fact, many senators are themselves spellcasters. However, spellcasting is not permitted within the building without written approval (often issued to entertainers).
• Only light and one-handed weapons are allowed inside the senate building; ranged weapons and two-handed weapons are not allowed inside the building.
All weapons brought into the senate building must be peace-bound—secured in a sheath with a length of decorative cord. Drawing a peace-bound weapon requires a full-round action. Guards do not need to peace-bind their weapons.• Animals are generally not permitted inside the senate building, excepting familiars and service animals.
Animals larger than an average member of the senate guard are not permitted within the building under any circumstances.• While guests are free to roam the senate building when invited, individual senators’ offices are off-limits and locked. No one but the senators and a single aide for each is permitted on the senate floor during a vote.
Anyone caught breaking any of these rules is quietly escorted outside by two guards.
Once that small matter was resolved, she dismissed the group to go on their respective ways, "Tomorrow evening may well go down in the history books, so rest up and strive to be at your best. Oh, and you might want to be a bit early. There does tend to be quite a line at these events." She cautioned, wrinkling her nose slightly in distaste.
Edelmira's cup would be met with Nicolette's wineglass as she finished the last of her wine and snacks. It pleases her to see her cousin open up a bit more than in past encounters. It is probably because if she doesn't, she knows that Nicolette will put her in more of a spotlight. Also, perhaps due to the calming effect that Nicolette can have on her by taking away all attention if Edie becomes overwhelmed.
"I may see to borrowing some of those books," she thinks to herself as Kunala speaks on his mater's book collection. Just the thoughts on the comments of those present brings a light flush to her cheeks, and if not covered as it is, they'd see that flush on her chest as well. Her jacket provides a subtle covering and even the shade on her cheeks is light and obscured by the dark light of her brimmed hat.
"Senate rules? Ugh.." she groans, "Alright, but I am in agreement with you, Kunala." she replies to Kunala's need to go celebrate. To Martella, she comments, "It is time to go make use of this disguise. At least until evening. I'll go over this sometime tomorrow. Come visit me in the afternoon and we'll have lunch. If you aren't too busy. You come too, Thadeus. When we are done eating, you and I can go to my study."
She won't have to likely go early as she'll be arriving with the royal family but will encourage them not to all show up late as usual.
Cassandra's eyes light up as everyone discusses their own personal libraries. A bookworm herself, Cassandra simply adored reading and as thrilled about the possibility of learning more on any given topic. Even books such as autobiographies that some people might find tell, gave Cassandra a picture into how people view the world around them - something Cassandra felt was exceedingly valuable.
"I too, have a rather small library that I was able to bring with me to the city. Its not particularly large, as transportation is not easy, but it does contain several encyclopedias, as well as books on topics such as astronomy and a few...ah shall we say esoteric knowledge. My bedtime reading usually involves a cracking thriller or mystery though - something to engage the mind" she finishes with an amused smile as Kunala mentions his 'illustrations'.
Letting the conversations wash over her, Cassandra sits back, taking a brief moment to reflect on her task ahead and any plans or preparations that she might need to complete or have ready. She fidget's slightly, reading out to take a sip of wine before catching herself. Cassandra wasn't a lush but what she did tend to do was partake in an unconscious action while deep in thought. It could be pacing, sipping, or fiddling with an object in her hand - something that took no thought to accomplish but felt comforting somehow. Noticing the signs, she pulls a small round crystal from her outfit, places it into her palm, and reflexively clenches and unclenches it while she thinks.
Cassandra yanks herself back to reality as she realizes that absently fiddling with an object lost in thought probably wasn't most lucid of actions to take. I should really develop a less obvious exercise of reflecting, or at least break the habit she reflects, before flashing a guilty expression on her face if anyone was glancing at her.
"Apologies, I was a little lost in thought. Lady Martella, would you consider letting us borrow one of your pets for use during the party? I'm just reflecting that some of our tasks involve being quiet or pulling off an elegant attempt at sabotage and borrowing such a pet could be useful...and prevent us needing to call on your aid of course - letting you enjoy the party in peace. Would you consider parting with it temporarily?" Cassandra asks hesitantly, not at all confident with asking such a direct request.
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Despite the topic, Kunala's excitement, clapping his hands to his cheeks excites her. A quiet laugh escapes her lips at his shocked face before she presses her lips closed. By the time he is looking at her, she is just shaking her head at him in an effort to playful shame him. As his eyes fall on her, she "tsks" at him, however, there is a hint of something hidden behind her eyes there saying she's not truly judging him. As he gets up to leave, she does as well.
"I suppose I should leave you all as well. I'm going to have some fun. The next time some of you see me, I'll probably be a bit different, but do not hesitate to come to say hellooo...Anyways, I'm off!"
She will take off her hat with a flourish and bow to those there. Her braided hair is easily seen now. It is a dark oak color with a beautiful shine. As she swirls her hat around, there are fragrances that follow it of a very rare and enticing perfume, as well as the scents of freshly washed hair. It can easily be assumed she is clean and neat. Even under the hat, hardly a hair is out of place despite being clearly disturbed.
"Alas my dear, I'm afraid I shall be busy with speaking to Aelia about this and preparing," Thadeus says regretfully. "But perhaps we shall have time later."
Thadeus only grins more widely at Kunala's antics and barks out a laugh as the young man forgets the company he is in. He was fast finding he liked the Vudran dancer. Seeing hte others begin to leave he stands and excuses himself.
"It has been a delight meeting all of you, but I'm afraid I have just become rather more busy than I was before. My Lady Lotheed, you can expect my answer delivered to you this evening. In any case, you will have my utmost support and respect no matter what Aelia and I decide."
With a stately bow polished by years of practice, he turns and leaves. Before he has crossed the door, he is humming a merry tune and almost seems a decade younger as he makes his way through the sunny afternoon.
Lady Lotheed giggles like a schoolgirl, ”My but those lovely eyes of yours are quite compelling, Cassandra. At least someone appreciates my handiwork.” She pouted prettily at Kunala as he turned for the door. ”I’ll bring them both to the Gala and let you have it once you’re inside. I have an excellent bag I use to smuggle things in.” She says with a wink.
”Fly my pretties, preen your feathers well and I will see you all there. Do stagger your exits so you are not all seen together.”
Nearly every Taldan recognizes commander-in-chief Maxillar Pythareus as Grand Prince Stavian III’s right hand and a fanatical supporter of the throne. He believes in political might and economic stability through military supremacy, advocating for new wars of conquest against wayward colonies like Andoran and Cheliax, or even Qadira.
______________________________________________________________
Visitors flock to Oppara in the days leading up to the Grand Day of Exaltation and this year has been no exception. Today, the crowds are at their peak. The populace of the city doubles during this time, making Oppara larger than any other city in the Inner Sea region, save Absalom. The self-importance of the already prideful Taldan people swells in equal measure. The city roils with activity like a disturbed hill of ants as people engage in ecstatic revelry and bustle about with last minute tasks and purchases in mind.
Street vendors sell traditional Taldan foods — anchovy skewers, anglebobs, canal crossings, clamguards, jubilee pie, honeyflake, long wine, yonder tarts, and more — including regional delicacies from separated provinces such as Andoran mince and Chelish raven cake. Family banners and provincial flags drape the sides of most buildings, with merchants hawking heraldry ranging from replica banners of the old Armies of Exploration to wooden swords and handheld Taldan flags for children. Taverns offer themed drink and food, with varying bars adopting well-known nobles from the long history of the empire as their mascot or self-declared patron.
The sun sinks slowly from the sky, casting a rosey glow on the white stone edifices of the capital city as it dips toward the horizon over the Porthmos River. The evening sky deepens into night as pink fades into purple and finally indigo as night's curtain drops over the Oppara stage. No stars are visible tonight and the moon hides her face behind her inky cloak, as if she would not compete with the beauty of the shining gem of Taldor on this night.
For all across the city, hundreds of thousands of dazzling lanterns and brilliant street-lights activate like a cascade of fireflies, causing the darkening streets to, instead of sinking into shadow, glow as if lit from within by the brilliant network of illumination. The polished cobblestone streets of Senate Hill shimmer and shine in the magical light, and bejeweled senators and gala guests stride confidently through the decadent avenues. Though the less wealthy and influential occupants of the Gilded City have slunk away indoors to spend their last night of festival, vowing to outdo the fancy folk and their Grand Exaltation Gala, the highly organized walkways of the Senate Hill are even more crowded than at it's busiest hour.
Numerous lacquered stagecoaches painted in the colors of the hundreds of noble houses of Taldor dominate the streets, occasionally stopping to spill out nobles clad in everything from cloth of gold to soldier's dress uniforms and all manner of finery in between. In the distance, immediately adjacent to Imperial Square on Senate’s Hill, the Senate House stands tall and imposing, reflecting back the illumination of the many countless lights. The striking hall of governance is carved from such pristine white marble that the stone seems to catch and hold that radiance before casting it back. The structure has existed in one form or another for millennia, though natural disasters, sabotage, and war have partially leveled it several times in the empire's grand history, leading to many large-scale repairs and revisions. Ostentatious columns carved with glorious scenes of the nation's history surround the building on all sides, while a pronounced flight of precisely 100 stairs ascends to the main entrance.
Dozens of carriages and many more minor nobles and gala guests stand just outside of the massive fence encircling the Senate House while members of the official Taldan Constabulary stride from carriage to carriage, pulling some people aside seemingly at random to ensure that the Rules of the Senate are enforced before the gala guests are allowed entrance onto the Senate Grounds.
Martella did not jest when she warned you of the line. While senators may enter the senate building with a minimum of fuss, the process for aides, staff, and other attendees to enter is long and tedious. You are shuffled into an expansive line dedicated to senatorial aides, minor noble attendants, and various others deemed as "people useful to people of import." The line progresses ponderously, and it seems likely to take several hours to finally reach the front. Dozens of overeager merchants attempt to hawk a variety of wares to you and other staffers — mostly novelty Taldan flags and phony pieces of historical memorabilia, others selling last minute accessories, likely featuring glass or paste stones. Several others in the line begin to bemoan the wait, touting their respective level of importance based on association with their affiliated nobles and senators.
The entire affair is quite tiresome. The waiting is nerve-wracking, for the Taldan Constabulary are notoriously thorough, yet despite the feelings of anxiety some may feel, an air of excitement runs through the crowd like an electric current. Nobles and gala guests animatedly talk politics and gossip, or offer insincere compliments to each other with barely concealed sneers, as is often customary for the nobility.
You are halfway through the line and beginning to have a hope that you will make it through unmolested when an inspector approaches you. "You've been selected for a random inspection," the Vudrani woman says. "Follow me, please." And she leads you off to the side, next she collects one of your compatriots, even though you were not standing together.
You can tell this Inspector's interest is pointed, somehow. She has selected your party out for inspection, even though you had not accumulated in a group in line.
The next day boasted even more excitement and most of her morning was spent wandering throughout the city and partaking of food and drink at her patron bar, the Green Grape Inn. It doesn't sound like much, but Kris, the owner has spent much gold on making it one of the most upscale inns in town. It has its own spa, theater room, and garden area to walk around in. With Nicolette being their adopted patron, it makes it all the more fun for her to be there on days like today.
Getting a little sauced in the morning was not on her list of things to do, so by the time the afternoon rolls around, she departs and returns home to prepare for the evening. Scented baths of lavender and mint are in her future. Perfume, and much more. Tonight was the night to be the Grand Prince's niece, not herself.
Up to the drop-off zone pulls a massively large carriage trimmed in gold and royal colors. On the back are two servants who rush to open the door and offer a hand to the one descending from the step. A jeweled heel comes out first, revealing a most sexy looking leg sliding out through the slit of a full-length dress.
The person who rises from the carriage is not one like the group met yesterday. Her face is done up by professionals. Her hair, styled in the most beautiful, bouncy curls, and her dress is a symphony to the stars. Dazzling gems encrust the sexy black dress she wears with silver light along the curves and bends of the dress. Despite its plunging neckline showing off her nice cleavage, along the edges of her chest are lines of hardened, decorative, iron plate; forming a most elegant breastplate. It hugs around her waist to her back, giving an illusion of something near to a corset, but instead made of elaborately disguised metal for beauty and functionality.
Unlike earlier, where her face was hidden below a hat, now she is open for the world to see, and see her they will. Dazzling arrays of golden jewelry dangle from her ears and neck. With her beautiful black opera gloves and brilliant rings, it is clear to all she could very well be a princess. Whereas an innocent, chaste princess may have worn white, she seemed to go a darker more sinister route. Although modest enough, it does draw eyes. It is her secret devotion to Calistria for the powers she has given her that she now draws eyes into secret lust.
She wears a slimming yoke belt to show off her figure even more accurately, and wrapped around that is her scorpion whip. Its unique handle has already been peacebound into a custom-made sheath and would take her some time to retrieve to use as a weapon. Despite her seductive opulence, the womanly figure before you still has an air of innocence and royalty about her. Those who look upon her would feel that she is to be treasured--adored. It again is a divine effect.
Although perfectly capable, the Grand Prince's niece will not press to the front of the line, and instead will be a shining example to those around her to wait her turn. As they pull her out, she wonders to herself, "Is this Martella's doing?"