Ascension of an Empress: War for the Crown (Inactive)

Game Master bluedove

Walking out the door into the Senate Hill district. Kunala put's his hands in his jacket pockets. the left with the syringe and papers, the right with fifty gold coins. 'I should put the coin to use improving our odds tomorrow night.' Staying in the Senate Hill district Kunala goes to a small Boutique he was familiar with. Roaming around the store, he winks at the young lady working the counter, purchasing a small bottle of cologne called "Sandlewood." He remembered the smell from when his father would take his mother to the theater or when they would entertain at the villa. Smiling at the young lady he leaves a couple extra silvers on the counter, telling her in his gentlemanly lisp. "have a Grand Day tomorrow."

Stopping outside of the shop at a food vendor, Kunala gets a piece of jubilee pie, eating it as he begins to head home. As he nears Archirel's academy he turns back and heads down another side street, headed toward a high-end wine shop called 'Cayden's Crossing' that exclusively sells Taldan wines. Putting the broach that Lady Martella gave him on his left shoulder, he makes sure his family's crest pin is visible on his right. Walking proudly into the shop, he immediate heads towards the high end bottles, waving off the first sales person and the second. Finally when a well dressed heavy-set older man approaches Kunala asks, "Good sir, I would like to see your finest Taldan wines." He purses his lips, "A Lady friend of mine has told me about a wonderful wine her father purchased for her, and I wanted to see if I might be able to find some. All she remembered was it had a Golden Sun as well as a red wax seal. Do you know of such a vintage?"
diplomacy: Gather information: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
time in hours: 1d4 ⇒ 2

After looking at several bottles, Kunala eventually picks a normal size bottle of fairly expensive wine, Looking at the bottle as he leaves the shop, he tells himself 'Once Princess Eytropia is empress, we shall open this. Walking the streets, trying more of the street food, Kunala enjoys the party atmosphere until late, then heads to academy and goes to bed.

the next morning
On the Grand Day of Exaltation Kunala, not having any classes sleeps in. Taking a leisurely bath, then shaving and trimming his goatee. He puts on some of the Sandlewood cologne, remembering watching his father trim his beard and put on cologne, smiling to himself. Putting on his finest performance courtiers outfit, his armor and his kidskin, double-breasted, jacket, he returns the pin Lady Martella gave him to his left shoulder, and pins his cloak to his right shoulder with his family's crest. Putting his tools in his pouch, he places the syringe and cologne in one pocket and his invitation in another. Realizing his mentor had already headed out to visit family, he takes a leisurely walk towards the Imperial Square on Senate’s Hill. Spending the early afternoon watching performers and stopping at several food vendors. Knowing the wait would be tedious, he heads to the line with a honeyflake in one hand and an anglebob in the other.

Watching as the Vudrani woman approaches and asks him to follow her, Kunala raises an eyebrow, but says in his lisp common to the Taldan gentry. "Why certainly m'lady," He holds up his honeyflake, "But if were doing a strip search, you may have to hold on to this for me."

sense motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
sleight of hand: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10

True to his word, Lady Martella receives Thadeus' answer in the early evening hours. While Thadeus had been intrigued, Aelia was downright excited and he barely had gotten the question out before she heartily agreed to it.

The night of the Gala, Thadeus arrives wearing an outfit of blue and grey trimmed in silver. He wears the pin he'd been given, but a minor enchantment had changed its hue to match the rest of his outfit. silver cufflinks set with sapphires glimmer on his wrists, but the most spectacular piece of jewelry is the symbol of Shelyn glittering on his breast.

Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 10

"Hmm? Oh, but of course!" He starts off after the woman, curious as to how all of them seem to have been picked for this random inspection.

Bleh, feel like this isn't my best, but not up to the task of trying to make it flow better.

Cassandra grants Lady Lotheed a radiant smile at the small compliment. She feels a warm glow of satisfaction at successfully persuading Lady Lotheed to temporarily part with one of her contraptions - or at least provide a compelling argument. It remained to be seen if the clockwork contraption would prove useful but Cassandra felt it best to be prepared more often than not.

Later

Cassandra leaves the shop, mind awhirl with plans and preparations. Like with most things in life, Cassandra believed that first impressions counted. She knew that often people formed initial opinions of someone before they had even heard that person speak and resolved to put significant effort into her apperance and attire for an important event.

First up, was calling an acquaintance Cassandra had become friendly with during her time in Oppara. Katherine was an exceptionally talented beauty therapist and Cassandra considered herself fortunate to be her friend. Scheduling an urgent appointment, Cassandra began with a relaxing massage submitting to the delicious sensations as she let her mind and body relax, soothing away any anxiety she might have over the task ahead. While peaceful, she let her mind roll through possible situations or scenarios that might come up, planning her response or how she might portray herself. Cassandra didn't consider herself particularly skillful at manipulation or deceit, and hoped she could persuade anyone she might need to.

Once her massage had been completed, Cassandra asked Katherine to turn her ministrations to skincare, particularly her face, before finally finishing with beauty treatments on her eyebrows and eyelashes. With multiple compliments on her eyes that morning, Cassandra wanted to dial up her intoxicating gaze up to eleven.

It was late afternoon by the time Cassandra finished, and after paying Katherine her fee (with an added bonus due to the urgent timeframe) she returns home.

After carefully washing her hair, and drying it with careful use of a Prestidigitation spell, Cassandra accessorized with the help of her most expensive perfume - Blossom.

Finally ready, Cassandra slips into her dress. by far the most expensive thing she owns, its a long, flowing black dress, scattered with small diamonds to mimic a night sky constellation, her slim legs occasionally visible through a side slit as she gracefully navigates the Oppara streets in her black heels. Her long chocolate brown hair ripples down her back, like a waterfall - reflecting Cassandra's stubborn dislike of more exotic hairstyles. With her senate pin fastened just above her bust, and a small prismatic crystal affixed to a chain around her neck, Cassandra is the picture of beauty and elegance.

Well used to waiting, Cassandra doesn't pass comment at the size of the line, content to wait patiently. She didn't particularly mind any lingering eyes considering the daring style of her dress as it was exactly the sort of thing she was going for. At the sudden inspection, Cassandra raises a slim eyebrow in curiosity. She didn't feel particularly anxious, having absolutely nothing to hide, but she shares a small amount of concern for those of her allies who might be carrying harder to conceal items. It didn't appear to be random, but she nods at the woman's request and follows her off to the side.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

Dress Inspiration

Edelmira keeps her dagger hidden on her person, even as she walks into the venue with a peacebonded axe and the shining shield on her back. She likes to keep at least one weapon hidden on her person whenever she can.

Sleight of Hand (dagger, heavy clothing): 1d20 + 0 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 0 + 2 + 2 = 16

She wears the same outfit that she wore to the lunch, albeit now with more embellishments, medals, and other awards. She has also added a billowing Taldan military dress cape of green, blue, and gold. She wears her favorite flower, a red carnation, and her perfume smells of a calming sandalwood. She wears barely any makeup, just enough to smooth out her appearance, enough that people without any knowledge of the art the impression she is wearing none at all. She honestly prefers to just do without completely, but she does what she must. She arrives alone. Hubert lacked an invitation of his own, so he is not with her once again, his attention taken by other discrete matters.

She is completely unphased by the sudden inspection, and she follows after the inspector with dignity and grace.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

"Why certainly m'lady," He holds up his honeyflake, "But if we're doing a strip search, you may have to hold on to this for me."

The Inspector smiles at Kunala, "Not quite so invasive as all that. But it’s good to know that you’re open. My name is Kathann Zalar. I'll start with you then, let the others see how it's done. Don't worry, I won't take up too much of your time. Now then, please let me know if you have anything sharp on you. You wouldn't want me to cut myself and bleed all over your fine clothes now." She runs her gloved hands over Kunala's shoulders and down his sleeves, first. Then the same along his chest and down his abdomen, she follows the line of the belt around behind him and then does the same down his back. She sweeps along the sides of his hips and down the outside of the legs first, then up along the insides. It's a very thorough search really, and she seems to be making a show of it, though she does make an effort not to offend anyone's modesty. Then she peers into his pocket with a derisive smirk, ”What’s the matter? Can’t you be bothered to make a better effort than this? Well, it won’t do. Stand aside a moment.”

She pats down Edelmira next and soon finds the bulk of the knife, secreted under her uniform. "Hmm, what's this now? That's a good bit of concealment work." She complimented softly, with no attempt to relieve her of the item. "But if you adjust your center of balance, like so, people will be less likely to see the shift of the weight when you bow. Trust me, you're going to need to bow." She added with a wink. The guard is actually assisting you to better conceal your contraband. You get a +2 to your DC to spot your hidden dagger.

She goes through the motions with the rest of the group and nods her satisfaction at finding nothing suspicious. Then she returns to Kunala. ”Now I’ll show you what can be done with just a little effort.” She draws a small, sharp knife and makes a small slit in the stitching of the pocket lining and tucks the syringe away out of sight. She does such a good job of it, Kunala scarcely realizes where the putrefying agent is hidden himself.
Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 27

She draws away, holding the small knife clearly and speaking in a louder tone meant to be overheard. ”Sir, it doesn’t matter if you use it to clean under your nails. All blades must be peacebound. I’ll hang onto this for now.” She lowers her tone again and says, ”We wouldn't want to disappoint our mutual friend, now would we. She's counting on you, you know."

When she is satisfied, the Inspector waves you to the entrance, giving the guards standing there a thumbs up to signal them to let you through. "Have a good time tonight. And good luck!" She waved as she bid you farewell with a subtle wink and you begin your one hundred step journey up the gleaming white marble stairs.

You ascend the hundred marble steps to the senate of the Taldan empire. Hundreds of nobles, senatorial aides, and visiting dignitaries mingle within and without the grand halls of the senate. The parade of colorful clothing in all manner of cuts and styles, the cloud of clashing perfumes and cologne, and the sounds of gossip and chatter coming at you from all sides is nearly overwhelming. You spend a few minutes getting the lay of the land.

A1. Arcade of Triumphs

This entry gallery celebrates Taldor's abundant military and political glories. Banners and trophies line the halls of the arcade, some displayed openly while others rest behind intricate glass cases, while armor stands and display cases present countless artifacts belonging to great heroes and soldiers. A score of Taldan Phalanx troops stand at attention, acting as both ceremonial honor guards for the senate and guides to some of the military assets on display.

High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus is here, a muscular man in his early forties with weathered skin and close-cropped silver hair. He wears a blue-and-green tabard emblazoned with Taldor's official coat-of-arms. Also here are the five items donated by Earl Calhadion Vernisant for the night's ball--an elaborate silk fan, a brass spyglass, a leather journal, a fine buckler, and an ornate silver dagger. The artifacts appear to be shielded from view by a curtained enclosure which has been raised temporarily for the Gala.

A2. Courtyard

Breathtaking gardens surround the senate building. Catered patios segregated by short iron fences, coordinated military displays, and even a makeshift zoo of imported animals and magical beasts fill the few open spaces here, even including a small hive of bees busily pollinating the exotic flowers and making the honey used by the senate kitchens. Many of the senior nobles enjoy the breaks between ceremonies in this open space.

Lady Gloriana Morilla is here, sporting the finest of Absalom's fashion. She greets Princess Eutropia warmly and a small crowd is beginning to gather around the pair.

A3. Emperor's Hall

This gathering space before the senate chamber is set aside as the property of the emperor, and features countless statues and portraits of previous grand princes. While formally these chambers are for the use of the emperor, no grand prince has ever maintained an office within the senate building, and the space is understood to be public meeting rooms by silent agreement.

A4. Gallery (Note that this area doesn't appear on the map.)

The second floor of the senate building acts as an observation deck to the events of the main floor, with offices for various senators lining the outer walls. This area of winding passageways is typically open to noble observers and senatorial aides. Much of the gallery is dedicated to entertaining the children of various nobles, with extravagant performances occurring throughout the upper balconies of the senate building.

Countess Abrielle Pace is here, dressed in ridiculously gauche noble clothing and fine jewelry. Also here is Wyssilka the Fantabulous, a halfling jester entertaining the children.

A5. Imperial Archives

The Imperial Archives could have been Golarion's greatest collection of transcribed knowledge, had any care been invested into its upkeep. Centuries of redirected funding and senate-sanctioned pruning of "sensitive information" has ruined the once immaculate reputation of the archives. This vast library now acts as a repository of haphazardly curated books, senate minutes, and genealogy records left open to the scrutiny of uncaring nobles. During the Grand Day of Exaltation, a host of rising aristocrats and aspiring courtiers here tout their knowledge of Taldan history.

Duke Leonard Centimus is here, a round-faced half-elf seated in an elaborate wheelchair.

A6. Senate Floor

Normally closed to non-senators, the vast, circular senate floor is open to special guests during the Grand Day of Exaltation, and myriad would-be nobles take the opportunity to duck in and live out a few moments of power fantasy, issuing mock legislation or engaging in lively debates.
Baron Nicolaus Okerra is here, a handsome man standing a head taller than the rest of the crowd. Also here is Kalbio of Breezy Creek, the intended recipient of the noble elevation from Grand Prince Stavian. He uncomfortably wears clothing of noble finery, constantly fidgeting with the cuffs or scratching at his neck.

A7. Servant Area

While several hidden corridors crisscross the senate building, allowing servants to come and go without disturbing the assembled politicians, this area houses most of the storerooms, workshops, and kitchens where the building's small army of servants bustle around to maintain the facade of opulence. Even this area, never meant for noble eyes, is of exceptional quality, though the gilt has worn thin on most corners, and here and there cheap repairs mar artistic furniture.

Each of the people of import are currently predisposed with sycophants and senatorial matters, considering the coming deliberation. You'll have to wait to try to influence them, but in the meantime, you can do your best to work the crowd.

A PC can attempt an appropriate skill check with a set DC for one of the areas of the senate, hobnobbing and impressing the general crowd in that area. Each area has two thresholds, which represent levels of influence over that area. Every point by which the PC's result on one of these skill checks exceeds the DC is added to a pool of points specific to that area. When the number of points earned by the party as a whole exceeds the threshold of an area, then the GM provides the PCs with the information and story award associated with that area's threshold value.
You can each make one check now. These are the skills associated with each area:
A1. Appraise, Knowledge (history) or (nobility), Perception, Spellcraft, or Use Magic Device.
A2. Handle Animal, Knowledge (engineering, local, or nature), or Perform (keyboard, percussion, sing, string, or wind).
A3. Has no threshold or story reward.
A4. Acrobatics, Disguise, Perform (act, comedy, or dance), or Sleight of Hand.
A5. Knowledge (arcana, geography, or history), Linguistics, Profession (librarian or scribe), or Stealth.
A6. Bluff, Knowledge (local, nobility, or religion), Perform (oratory), Profession (clerk or barrister), or Sense Motive.
A7. Craft (alchemy, carpentry, jewelry, sculpture, or stonemasonry), Heal, Intimidate, Profession (baker, butcher, cook, innkeeper, or porter), or Sense Motive.
You can also make an argument for using a different skill than those listed, but it should have good synergy with the area or event.

In line
Raising his arms, Kunala nods politely. "A pleasure, Kathann Zalar." Giving his best smile. "What are you doing after the Gala?" Taking a bite of the honeyflake, talking through the mouthful of pastry. "So how bad can it be?" Frowning when she begins to actually frisk him. "Ummm, Never mind." Looking at the others nervously. ''Since when do they frisk people? the last time I was here they just asked for the invitation and peace bonded the weapons.' Looking at the others, resisting the urge to shrug. As the security woman pulls out the syringe. 'I knew I should have hid it in my cod piece.' He shrugs, "Just going to prank a friend." Taking another bite of the pastry as he steps aside. 'Well, maybe I will be able to dance my way out of this.'

Having finished the honeyflake, he begins dusting the powdered sugar off of his kidskin jacket. 'well here goes ... show me what can be done?' Raising an eyebrow, he watches as the woman uses the small knife cutting the pocket and returning the syringe. Looking honestly surprised, he nods as she declares 'all weapons must be peacebound.' Answering quickly and softly, "Thank you Kathann Zalar, truly, I hope we meet again." is there any reason Kunala may know Kathann? Ie any knowledge check?

at the gala
Walking up the steps, he nods to the Lady Cassandra, moving near her. "That is a lovely dress. The black is a nice background for your lovely emerald eyes." He looks about, keeping his smile neutral. "I would offer my arm, but I don't know that we should appear together." He nods, letting her get a few steps ahead of him. watching her walk up the steps for a moment. "A pity." Turning his attention to the huge entry doors and the din of sound coming from within.

'I have some time to browse before I must find the bottle, I'm sure I will find it in the servant area, but there is no need to appear in a rush.' Moving inside the door he pauses to look at the banners and trophies, 'I remember the first time Father brought me here. He was so proud of being a knight-captain of a Taldan Phalanx.' He pauses at the twenty Taldan troops. Walking down the line, identifying individual medals and then their unit. Speaking with the slight lisp common to Taldan gentry. Turning pointing towards the Banner of that particular unit, hanging from the ceiling. "The hundred and first, reformed for the eighth Army of Exploration." He turns and points to the case holding the armor of the General. "General Orphyrea Amanandar lead the eighth Army of Exploration. She and her troops landed in Kamikobu, now New Oppara. The Hundred and first Phalanx were the first off the boats and the last ones back on." He winks at the nearest sergeant, "After you all crushed the hundred or so warlords." He continues speaking with others, sharing common knowledge about the military memorabilia in the room.

knowledge(nobility): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13

As she is selected for search, some of her family jests that she's in a significant amount of trouble now. A light chuckle escapes her lips as she heads away from her travel companions.

"Yes, this is planned..."

As Cassandra comes into view, she in particular catches her eye.

"You look so vibrant! Like a spring dream! I had no idea you were so beautiful this morning. My previous observations were but a pale shadow to what I see anew. I am glad you made it though! You wore black and so did I. I love what you did with your hair too. What a beautiful evening is it not?"

She then will see her cousin got pulled out of the line after her.

"See? You all chuckled when I got snagged and now you are in trouble too!" She will pause for dramatic effect and then will whisper to the two ladies, "I'll tell you a secret though, I think this is Martella's doing. Look, there are the men from this morning."

To the men, she will compliment them, "Well don't you all look nice."

As she explained earlier that day, they likely wouldn't recognize her. There is a 100ft jump between the girl they met that morning and the dazzling rare gem before them now.

The group is brought together once more. As their new ally reveals herself to them, Nicolette greets Kathann kindly with a bow. A small chuckle escapes her as her companions, and in particular, Edie gets caught sneaking things in.

"Thank you, darling!" she replies to Kathann wishing them a good night. Nicolette's tone is one of pure delight. This day was so spectacular.

Her great mood diminishes as she has to walk up the flight of 100 steps.

"I wish I never wore this armor...Poor cousin. She must be feeling it too...Oh...maybe not. She's so strong compared to me."

Nicolette takes her time so by the top she is not out of breath or sweaty. That would ruin everything. Plus, moving slowly makes her ascension all the more graceful.

As she arrives, people seem to flock to her to talk about that night's events. Nicolette is both engaging and a conversation lifter, but she continually moves between people who are interested in speaking to her. Her father, having been a hunter and strong military man, she takes a liking immediately to the Arcade of Triumphs. There, she shares tales of nobility with the lesser knowledgeable on why such decorations are there--which hopefully endears her in people's hearts as being not just a fun noble, but a person of good, knowledgeable character. If she finds any of her allies nearby looking to impress the crowds with their own knowledge, she would assist them by confirming their findings. The reading of her books this morning helped her.

Take 10 for both assist and Knowledge Nobility with a +9 bonus (book+trait+feat). Those who benefit from her Aid Another get a +4

"This one was my great great uncle's brother, who was stranded in the wilderness outside of Lionsguard, who managed to fight off goblins and orc alike on his return to the capital. It is said, he had a significant amount of trophies on his shoulder upon his return. After taking a long dip in the ocean to clean himself, he marched up these steps and signed into effect an accord. No rest. No sleep. What an impressive person. He must have traveled for many days without food or water!" she chuckles. "I don't blame him for heading straight to the ocean though. I love a good swim!"

Edelmira does not skip a beat as the guard gives her advice. "Your expertise is valued. I sincerely appreciate your assistance and I will speak to this to our mutual acquiantance. Farewell." She bows her head ever-so-slightly, as though simply showing courtesy to any other humble servant, but her eyes flash with understanding and mischief.

Edelmira makes her entrance in the Arcade of Triumphs. She remains as skeptical as ever of the military, seeing it as always tending towards conservative and nationalistic political forces, but it also provides one of the few avenues open to her to gain the capital--political and otherwise--and connections to fulfill her ambitions, so she will happily play whatever part she needs to.

Knowledge (nobility) w/Nicolette Aid: 1d20 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 8 + 4 = 23

She goes over to witness the display of artifacts with her cousin when she is free. "Ah, the Vernisant family shows its quality once again with these donations. I should expect as much from the line of the great General Arnisant himself. I imagine some--if not all--of these artifacts must date back to his Great Campaign against The Tyrant." She makes sure to speak just loud enough that others nearby can clearly hear her, but not enough that she does not appear to be trying to. Her admiration for Arnisant is not affected. He fought as a liberator, not a conquerer, and he happily gave his life to defeat one of the greatest evils Golarion has ever known. That he did so with no divine magic of his own is all the more reason she views him as an exemplar, one of the pinnacles of mortal achievement.

However, her lauding of the Vernisant family is far less sincere. They have fallen far from the heights of their ancestor, representing all of the worst tendencies of the military and those who devote themselves to it. She is in no position to make those feelings public, though, so for now, she will court their favor.

Bluff: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
The bluff is not for influencing, just to show that she is in fact putting on a facade

Thadeus gives a bemused smile to their ally and politely bows once the charade has been player. He then makes his way up the steps at a pace that wouldn't leave him a sweaty, wheezing mess. Aelia would never forgive him for that. However, while his appearance remains immaculate, his nerves begin to twist and fray as the hour of his thievery grows near.

The Arcade of Triumphs proves to be a wonderful distraction from the twisting of his stomach and the fluttering of butterflies within. Soon his nerves are forgotten as he slowly meanders through the hall admiring each of the artifacts on display and mentioning some tidbit of trivia or a little known historical fact.

Knowledge(History): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

Cassandra's eyes widen slightly when she spots Nicolette "Ah, I think the compliments and accolades should go to you tonight. Truly, I haven't yet seen anyone better dressed tonight. I particularly enjoy the dress theme - was it planned to reference the constellations of a clear night sky?" she inquiries, feeling a little guilty at wearing a similarly themed dress - without anywhere near the level of extravagance that Nicolette had been able to pull off.

Spotting the glint of metal, Cassandra peers a little closer before realizing that the dress was armored. "Oh...an armored dress. That is a devilishly clever idea." she mumers, glancing at it again with an admiring look before indicating Nicolette's hairstyle. "You simply must give me the name of your hair stylist though. Its been a long time since I attempted anything particularly adventurous - worried about it looking tacky. Your style looks...elegant - perhaps I'll broaden my horizons" she smiles, before sweeping out of the line, in the direction of the guard.

As she observes, Cassandra relaxes when Kathann Zalar assists her friends in hiding their illicit objects. While she carried nothing suspicious herself, it she felt better that the rest of her allies would be joining her inside the party and not outside in the cold.

At Kunala's remarks, Cassandra smiles briefly, and lightly places her hand on the mans chest. "You know, you clean up rather well yourself. Quite the dashing dancer indeed. Perhaps another time" she replies, brushing a wayward strand of hair back into place.

Cassandra hesitates briefly when most of her companions visit the Arcade of Triumphs. She wanted to join them, but truthfully, they would need to split up later anyway, moving around as a group would certainly spell suspicion. Instead, she spots her target, Baron Nicolaus Okerra on the Senate Floor. Feeling comfortable within that environment, Cassandra swiftly glides in that direction, stopping to compliment several senators she was familiar with along the way.

Knowledge Local + Guidence: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 11 + 1 = 13

Drat.

Kathann smiles at Kunala’s inquiry. ”I’ll be here at the Gala for a while yet. And the line can’t last forever. Perhaps I will see you inside, later.” Oddly, he finds he knows nothing more than the name she gave him. Especially given she was also clearly Vudrani in addition to being both beautiful and graceful.
Sense motive is about all I can allow here, as she is not a public figure.

Exploring the Arcade of Triumphs

In the Arcade of Triumphs, the crowd applauds the addition of your comments on the memorabilia displayed all around. Nicolette notices a discrepancy between one of the more prominently displayed artifacts and the description the guide recounts. When she points it out, the guide seems flustered for a moment before an elegantly dressed woman of middle years glides to Nicolette’s side and takes her arm. She draws her closer to the item in question, a well made crossbow constructed of darkwood with brass inlay. She leans in to her and whispers conspiratorially, "Well spotted, Duchess! Most people never notice, but this crossbow is actually a reproduction. The true relic, called Dignity's Barb, was lost some centuries ago. The curator at the time had this reproduction installed, but it is not exact. The original weapon bears a nick on the tiller from blocking the arc of a Kellid Warlord's battleaxe. T'was slain by the self-same crossbow, the histories recount. Thrilling stuff, is it not? I am Copernia Vau, curator of antiquities here." She smiles and then her magpie-like gaze seizes onto Edelmira and she nearly drags the Duchess along in her haste to speak with the young Lady.

"Oh my, but that is a splendid axe you carry, my Lady. It looks brilliantly maintained, as well. I would so love to get a better look at it if you would permit me, though we cannot unbind it here. I plan to give a little tour of my restoration room in a bit to interested parties. You could open it up there and let me have a peek, perhaps? I'll make it worth your while with some tools of the trade so you can keep that piece looking as magnificent as it does today. You should both come! Simply marvelous!" She exclaims as she pats Edie on her shoulder and drifts off into the crowd again.
That's all 20 points scored and both thresholds cleared for A1. Well done! Thadeus gains a +5 bonus to his checks to steal valuables from the arcade so long as the curator is distracted. Attending the offered tour will grant a reward one bottle each of universal solvent and unguent of timelessness so they can practice the maintenance skills she describes.

Debating on the Senate Floor

Cassandra’s polite compliments attract minimal attention as she eases herself in to the politically charged atmosphere.
It is a successful check, but points are earned toward clearing the thresholds by how much you exceed a successful check. Cassandra earns 1 point toward clearing the thresholds on the Senate Floor.

There is a distinct flow of movement in the crowd back towards the courtyard, you follow the river of people and arrive just in time to hear Lady Gloriana Morilla loudly clink her glass and declare that Princess Eutropia would like to address the gathering. With the announcement, the crowd gives Eutropia some space, and Gloriana helps the princess climb onto the garden’s stone railing to be seen and heard above the throngs. Princess Eutropia's voice rings out clear as a bell, her timbre rich and strong.

“My friends, colleagues, and assorted enemies," she pauses as light laughter bubbles through the crowd. "It is wonderful to see you all out in your finery beneath the beautiful stars tonight. With any luck, the weather will be the only thing that refuses to change this evening."

“We have all gathered here tonight to honor Master Kalbio of Breezy Creek, a master artisan and true patriot, for his exquisite skill and service to our glorious empire. Master Kalbio demonstrates so eloquently that a heart may be noble regardless of the stature of one’s birth, and while it may be premature, I hope to be the first to congratulate you, sir, on the exaltation you will see tonight and welcome you into the ranks of Taldor’s long-lived aristocracy." She indicates the young man and leads a brief round of applause in his honor. He blushes and bows as the crowd's scrutiny shifts to him among the press of bodies, he looks relieved when Eutropia's voice calls the communal gaze back to herself.

“But we gather here to discuss matters of state, as well. And just as the exaltation reminds us that our glorious empire must always look out into the world to refresh the greatness of its leadership, we must all look out into the world around us and see how it has grown. The child-nations our empire birthed — Andoran, Cheliax, Lastwall — have grown strong by examining the great traditions they inherited from our motherland, and embracing those relevant to this new world and discarding those that held them back. So too will we, this very night, examine one of Taldor’s oldest traditions — primogeniture — with eyes wide open, to determine whether it has held us back from the glory and stability our wayward states have found." She pauses again for another smattering of applause.

“Our obligation tonight is not about one person or one vote in the senate. It is about the nation we love and about ensuring that nation does not fall behind the times. We are the inheritors of mighty Azlant, and I say that we must work together to avoid sharing that old empire’s fate. Taldor endures evermore!" She concludes to the cheers and thunderous applause of her supporters, and even her opponents clap begrudgingly, unwilling to seem less than patriotic given her summation.

some what Earlier;
Looking the dark haired beauty in her deep dark eyes, 'Perhaps, perhaps indeed.' He give a polite nod, and continues on to his task.
sense motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

Just a little earlier
'well, that's impressive Watching as the crowd follows the Duchess as she explains about the crossbow, 'Ah the curator of antiquities.' Smiling as his coconspirator loops arms with Copernia Vau. Raising an eyebrow as the curator spies Edelmira. 'Splendid axe?' Smiling as the two Stavian's distract the Curator, he begins to move towards where the princess speech will be given. 'I hope the distraction will help our half-orc.'

Now
Moving with the crowd, he watches and listens, applauding enthusiastically when she pauses. 'I hope we can pull this off for her sake and my nieces.' Looking away for a moment he sees a serving staff member heading toward the apiary carrying an oddly colored alchemical bar. 'Hmmmm Following the servant, Kunala tries to tell what is in the bar. or is it a jar?

knowledge (nature) untrained: 1d20 ⇒ 19

Edelmira smiles at the Lady. "Why thank you. The way we maintain our tools illustrates our pride in the position that grants them. I would happily let you take a closer look, and I gratefully accept your invitation, though perhaps once I have had more of an opportunity to speak to certain persons of import first."

Edelmira claps and smiles at the speech, but restrains herself from showing her full-throated support. Anyone with half a brain for Taldan politics would know that she has every reason to support doing away with primogeniture, but she gains nothing yet by firmly placing herself on a team. Edelmira has done her own behind-the-scenes work helping her older half-sister get to this point, of course, and she is proud to see this culmination of years of work, both for Eutropia and the small part that she herself played in this affair. Edelmira is inherently skeptical of Taldan reformism, seeing it as the equivalent of trying to patch up a cannon ball wound with shears and gauze, but this situation does provide an excellent opportunity to test the waters and see how the reactionaries, well, react.

Edelmira pretends to simply make her way across the floor to greet various people, when actually she is attempting to discretely approach the apiary.

Bluff: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

Nicolette's eyes widen with joy at being snagged and dragged for historical lessons with the curator. Even more so when being pulled to her cousin.

"Why of course I would join you on a private tour! How could I say no!?"

It was then time for her cousin's speech, and before Lady Gloriana Morilla had clinked her glass, Nicolette was in Eutropia's line of sight for support. She will laugh at the joke and clap happily for Kalbio of Breezy Creek.

"Aww, he looks so uncomfortable there. I can't imagine."

Nicolette will uncaringly clap excitedly in support of her cousin's words, despite what others sparsely clap for. She thinks it is ideal that the matter should be up for a vote and the nation should speak their voice on the topic.

Despite seeing the person break off from the serving staff, nothing concerning that person seems to indicate anything of worry or caution, but it is odd to her so she idly watches him while mostly watching her cousin. At the end of the speech, she is there to greet her.

"Well done loveliest cousin."

She will not care about the person moving away toward the apiary so much.

Thadeus watches and listens to Princess Eutropia with uncharacteristic attention. His usual rambling thoughts are silent as he only sees this marvelous woman gain his undivided attention.

My, she is remarkable. I think she'll make a fine Empress when the time comes, he muses as he adds his applause to the rousing cheers and accolades.

But with the end of the speech his mind once again goes flitting off. With so many distractions about, he'll lose his chance if he's not careful. Best to get to work while the getting is good.

***

Cassandra is a little disappointed that she didn't make a splash, but wasn't surprised - she was still learning after all. She does however, welcome the distraction that Princess Eutropia's speech brings. Its a good speech she muses to herself before spotting the man carrying on oddly colored bar, heading in the direction of the apiary. Curious, Cassandra follows, trying to remember why the bar looked familiar..

Knowledge Nature + Guidance: 1d20 + 10 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 10 + 1 = 29

Nicolette will turn to gracefully face the audience to be in support of her cousin. As she does, she can witness the events happening with her companions. She may not see what they do, but it is clear they have converged on the man who strangely walked away.

"Hmm...did I miss something about him? Surely not. I wonder what has them all abuzz? What is happening here?"

Her body language is a bit tenser for a moment, but she tries to calm herself to appear more supportive as the speech continues on. This way the people in the audience will be more focused on her cousin than the events happening behind them.

Thadeus thinks about how he might accomplish his mission while watching Eutropia's speech.
GM magic wand to disregard that post, since this social round is a special event.

Eutropia's speech is concluded with much applause and fanfare. The crowd disperses somewhat and some people have lined up for a chance to speak with Eutropia and offer congratulations and well wishes. Eutropia greets Nicolette with a brilliant smile. "Ah! So very lovely to see you, dear cousin! Are you more excited over the Gala this evening, or the vote?"

Very good, you have prevented a minor disaster! The party now has 4 social rounds, or one hour of free time that you may now use to work towards your missions, influence a room of the Senate for more points toward the thresholds or engage with any of the NPCs starting with a discovery check using either Knowledge[Nobility] (for nobles), Knowledge[Local] (for commoners), or Sense Motive (for anyone) to feel out their interests. If you wish to ferret out weaknesses, let me know your target and I will give you the appropriate skills to roll. Don't forget that someone should go on the curator's tour to distract her so that Thadeus can use his bonus!

Edelmira moves on to the senate floor, having thankfully not needed to intervene with the apiary matter. She says her greetings and pleasantries to the Baron, as well as to the honored Kalbio. Before she moves on to her own tasks, it seems only fair to assist her allies in laying the groundwork for their own missions. ”Baron, it has been far too long. I see that I still make you look a giant, even after these past few years.”

When done with a brief back-and-forth with the Baron, she moves on to Kalbio. ”You have a pleasant demeanor that is most refreshing. My name is Edelmira Stavian. People typically refer to me as Lady Edelmira, but do not worry about such details. I am certain you have enough names and titles to learn.”

Knowledge (nobility): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13

Apiary
'He has no idea what he was told to do.' As Kunala reaches out and takes the bar, "I will happily take care of this for you." Nodding to Cassandra, smiling, 'Lady as always, it's been a pleasure." He then walks away towards the Emperor's Hall, one hand on his hip the other holding the bar out from him. As he passes the fountain he tosses the bar into a bush, brushing his hands of.

A4
Heading to the observation deck Kunala hears a string trio playing a lovely waltz. Noticing one of his students, He pauses taking off his cloak, coat and vest (lamellar armor) laying them on a nearby low cabinet. He smiles and walks over to the pre-teen he gives a sweeping bow, so the poet-shirt of his Dancers garb fluttered as he moved. Making eye contact with the smitten girl, in his gentlemanly lisp. "Lady Anastasia, that turquoise dress is divine." He looks towards the trio then back to the giggling girl, reaching out his hand, gesturing in a dancers posture. "Shall we?"

As they begin to dance, he moves cautiously, guiding her through the small crowd of children and their chaperones. Making sure to dance near all of the eligible-age ladies. Turning beautifully as they dance. "Watch lady Anastasia's foot work children, she dances wonderfully." When the waltz is over he gives the girl a twirl, releasing her hand and giving her a sweeping bow. "Always a pleasure Lady Anastasia." Winking at one of the chaperones he head's back towards the low cabinet, donning his outerwear as he heads down the stairs towards his goal.

perform (dance): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

Now that the disaster has passed and her cousin's speech is over, she replies to her kind greeting.

"The vote of course. You know I love a Gala, and honoring Master Kalbio is of great importance to me, I believe there is overhanging importance of the primogeniture. I am looking forward to the voice of our people."

"Even if we give some of them a nudge in the right direction. I'm sure we won't be alone in this. Ahh politics..."

"Well dear cousin, are you free to join Edelmira and me on a tour? The curator has offered us one. She wishes to look at your half-sister's ax."

If accepted, she will make plans to come to grab the Princess and take her with them when the curator is ready. In the meantime, Nicolette will head toward the servant area. Along the sides of one of the rooms where food is of exquisite quality, she will pick up a tray and carry it with her into the servant's quarters. There, she will set it down among the wait staff and those who are The Unseen.

"I don't want you to be ignorant to our appreciation for all the hard work you endure on evenings such as this. Here, these are some of my favorites. I know sometimes they don't let you even have a taste of the food you serve, so I thought it might be appreciated."

Her altruistic act will be authentic, and her laughter and kindness like one of equals.

A7
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

Cassandra nods to Kunala in gratitude, not quite sure how familiar she should be with him in case any observers were nearby. She watches him move towards the dance floor and hides a smile, figuring that Kunala would be quite at home in his natural habitat.

As for herself, Cassandra hesitates as she considers trying to influence the Senate Floor once again. Making a strong impression would certainly help out with influencing the Baron but on the other hand, repeat failures could hurt her chances. Deciding that perhaps her ill fated first attempt was down to nerves, Cassandra heads towards the Imperial Archives, feeling a wave of relaxation flow through her, standing in a library. Feeling at home, she immediately launches into a discussion on the mythology of Taldaris, Taldor's First Emperor

Influencing A5
Knowledge Nobility: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

Thadeus will wait for someone to distract the Curator before making his first move.

Thadeus waits for an opportune moment to carry out the first of his thefts this night. He had to be honest, at least with himself and his wife, that this is exactly what he'd been asked to do. Deciding to save the journal for last, he goes for the buckler first, figuring that would be the hardest. As soon as he sees the curator busy with Cassandra and Edelmira, he makes his way past the plinth appearing as nothing more than another old scholar browsing the Arcade rather than socializing.

Sleight of hand (Buckler, Bonus for distracted curator): 1d20 + 7 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 7 + 5 = 19

His fingers tremble some, but thankfully, the distraction is his saving grace. With the buckler pilfered and tucked away, he looks for someplace appropriate to hide it away.

Edelmira
The majority of those on the Senate Floor give Edelmira's Chelaxian uniform a wide berth but the Baron gives a polite greeting and chuckles over the joke about the differences in height. He is a bear of a man, standing a head taller than the crowd. and while starting to show his age with flecks of white in his black hair and beard, he retains a youthful smile and gentle eyes. "As long as you do not feel a mouse in a lion's den, my little friend." Congenial to a fault, you don't see recognition in his eyes despite the friendly words.

Kalbio, on the other hand, smiles widely as if she were an old friend, enthusiastically glad-handing her with a strong grip. She can feel the callouses on his fingers, the trademark of someone who works with their hands. "That's real nice of you to say, m'lady. Lots of folk have been stopping by to congratulate me, but I keep worrying I will say or do something wrong. I really like your uniform. The fabric is top notch! Sorry, I'm a weaver by trade. Can't seem to stop talking shop." He wears fine clothing fit for a noble, but his constant fidgeting with the cuffs or pulling at the collar around his neck reveal his discomfort with the finery. His calloused hands, simple hair style, and sun-beaten face all set him apart, as does his broad, genuine smile.
Edelmira earns 1 point toward clearing the thresholds on the Senate Floor. She has also positively influenced Kalbio once through her sincere interest.

Kunala
Kunala finds the Gallery full of children and their minders and entertainers to be a very receptive and eager audience. Lady Martella Lotheed is here as well, she is grinning as she claps along with the rhythm of one of the jugglers. She notices Kunala and quickly smooths her gleeful expression before she gives him an encouraging wink.

One of the halfling entertainers drifts over to watch Kunala and his young protege dance. She wears a costume like a harlequin clown, all in black and red. She wears similar makeup, embellishing her childish face to resemble a raccoon. She pulls out a foppish looking puppet wearing a top hat and monacle. "Ooh, they danth so beyootifully, don't they, my dear?" She croons animatedly in the voice of the puppet, poking fun at Kunala's lisp. She nods and answers in her own voice "They do, Duke Squiggles. I wish I could dance like that." The puppet bows like a gentleman, "Your wish ith my command, may I have thith danth?"

She claps excitedly, "Oh yes, Duke Squiggles. We can have a dance off! Line up behind me, boys and girls!" She makes a comical show of swaying and twirling in imitation of the dance instructor's footwork, holding her hands in a parody of elegance as she dances with her puppet partner. The children laugh and take up her antics as they start twirling and dipping their pretend partners too. Overall, most everyone in the area enjoy the little impromptu show and laugh and clap indulgently. Except perhaps young Lady Anastasia, who pouts over being upstaged with diva-like petulance.
Aid Performance: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

"Hey, that was some fancy footwork!" The halfling jester compliments Kunala's performance afterwards. "Hope you didn't mind my jumping in. I'm Wyssilka the Fantabulous! Now that's a name to remember, huh?" She grins and does a neat cartwheel, ending with a flourish.

The view from the Gallery makes it easy to observe the ebb and flow of the crowd's movement. Kunala believes he can better navigate the Senate Building because of it, saving time in transit.
Kunala scores 16 points and clears the first threshold in A4 and has happened upon an influence skill (Performance[Dance]) for the halfling NPC, Wyssilka. Have added her image to the slideshow. Kunala also unlocks a +2 bonus on the Aide mission and +1 social round to every block of them you receive for the rest of the Gala!

Nicolette
Eutropia gives a slight sigh and gestures to the throng of admirers still clamoring to offer their own kind words of congratulations and likely some waiting impatiently to express their thinly veiled contempt. "Would that I could, dear cousin. I fear I may be occupied for some time yet. But you know it will be ages before really happens. Give Edie my love, I'm sure I'll see you both again soon. Enjoy the Gala!"

Many of the serving staff seem astonished to be waited on by the Duchess' own hands. Though they are hesitant, they seem pleased by her gesture and sincere thanks.
Nicolette earns 4 points of influence in A7, 6 remain to clear the first threshold.

Cassandra
Feeling more at home among the trove of ancient tomes of knowledge and literature, Cassandra recieves a smattering of applause from the assorted academics who linger here. The talk soon turns to the various uses of magic and ritual under Emperor Taldaris.
I subbed in Knowledge(Arcana) since it was the skill you have ranks in that was listed among the influence skills for A5. Cassandra scores 5 points of influence in A5, 5 remain to clear the first threshold.

Thadeus, your action hasn't strictly occurred yet since you're waiting for someone to provide your distraction. At least the first round goes by without that happening. Do you want just wait or spend this first round doing something else?

before he leaves the gallery

Giving a courteous nod to Lady Martella, Kunala turns back to his young student, tapping her chin with his finger. "Don't pout Anastasia, it's unbecoming for a lady of your quality. Besides, nothing wrong with being upstaged by a professional, Remember dancing is your hobby. You will rise to greater things than these." Giving the girl a smile, "Now chin up, show those children the poise of a lady of Taldor."

Watching his student leave he turns to the halfling and gives her a deep bow. then a quick smile in his genteel lisp, "My dear Wyssika may I call you Wyssika?" He waives a hand at her, not waiting for an answer. "My dear, acrobatics like that, you may jump in any time here or anyplace of your choosing." He gives her a flirtatious wink, then turns to reacquire his outerwear.

going down stairs
Having returned his vest, jacket and cloak to their rightful places as he stepped off of the stairs, Kunala turns onto the senate floor. Moving through the crowd of would-be nobles, he ducks and weaves, trying not to interrupt anyone's fantasies. Finding himself listening to conversations and watching peoples faces. Pausing eventually near Kalbio of Breezy Creek, he pauses and watches the man. Curious, he stays near as the newly raised nobleman fidgets with his cuffs and talks with people.

not really sure what I'm looking for here on the senate floor, happy to talk with anyone or whatever. Just drawing a blank right now other than to watch and try to sense motive.
sense motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9 wow that was not what I wanted!

Edelmira moves on to the see the commotion on the dance floor, unsurprised to see Kunala at the center of the spectacle. His specialty has proven quite a boon. Lady Lotheed was wise to notice how such talents would be of use to their cause.

Edelmira pats Kunala on the shoulder as she passes by, leaving it ambiguous whether she was doing so to show approval or to politely maneuver past him. She approaches

”Countess Pace, I have not had the honor of making your acquaintance but I was simply overcome with a need to compliment you on your exquisite taste in fashion. I am particularly enraptured with how well your spectacles suit the shape of your face.” Edelmira bows. ”You may call me Edelmira. Is there anything I can do to be of service, Countess?”

Attempting to discover her weakness. Trying to get her talking about herself to let something slip while also insinuating that Edelmira can be “useful,” as she knows from her earlier knowledge check that Abrielle tires quickly of people with nothing to offer her
Bluff: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Cassandra swells inwardly with the minor praise she ws able to receive from several of the academics. She was pleased that she had managed to create a new topic of conversation, and show off her knowledge in return. For once, the countless hours she had spent in her sunny library, browsing dusty books had paid off.

Spotting Thadeus waiting in the wings, she moves to distract curator, engaging in conversation and asking if she could join the tour.

Kunala
Wyssilka giggles girlishly as she waves farewell to Kunala for now and returns to her acrobatics.

Unfortunately the Senate Floor is a rather dry atmosphere where so called important people and great minds discuss the most boring things imaginable. Or at least that is how it seems to Kunala at the moment as a yawn threatens to crack his jaws. Kalbio at least seems to have some life to him as he downs a glass of wine rather needfully in a break from those seeking to congratulate him on his skill and good fortune.

That won't influence the floor, but Kalbio is an easy read. You can tell he'd very much like to do almost anything else besides say 'Thank you.' over and over again.

Edelmira
The Countess turns to scrutinize Edelmira through those same spectacles, her perfectly coiffed ringlets bouncing with the movement. "You like them do you? And here I thought they quite detracted from the ensemble. Are you Chelaxian, dear? That uniform looks decidedly Chelaxian. I'd be very interested to hear what sort of service a Chelaxian might be able to offer me." The enthusiasm she directs at the notion fills Edelmira with the definite impression that she is no patriot.

Cassandra
Cassandra joins the tour with Madame Vau. She gives a very dry lecture on the dangers of moisture and demonstrates various methods of preventing or repairing rust and other forms of corrosion in weapons and armor. At the end, she gives out one bottle each of universal solvent and unguent of timelessness so her pupils can practice the maintenance skills she describes.

Meanwhile, Thadeus makes off with the buckler, which appears to be of masterwork quality on closer inspection.

Kunala, Edelmira and Cassandra each have 3 more social rounds, Nicolette and Thadeus have 4.

It is pleasant to her eyes to see true, if not hesitant smiles on the faces of the wait staff. She will tell them about her recent acquaintances (to give them aid should they need it in the area), and of important events in her life. While some of it is about her, her exuberance leaves no single person without attention and each of them is put on the spot. She asks them about their families, what working in a senate building is like, how they like the food she brought, and finally, what it is like to profoundly be a person of importance there on such a night as tonight; at the foot of democracy itself.

"You can tell your children that you were at the Senate when an age-old tradition was voted on and the people were heard. Who knows what will happen! Doesn't it just thrill you?"

Such talk and attention are likely more than they have had in a long time, let alone from a noble. She will leave them to their thoughts of greatness.

A7 again
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

-----

Once out of the crew area, Nicolette will see then that the Curator is prepared to give the tour and she will join on it as she said she would.

---

Afterward, she decides it is time to explore the imperial archives.

Knowledge History: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16

Mostly she is trying to find information on High Strategos Maxillar. His family likes, his recorded history and asking, or more accurately, challenging people's knowledge of him who act like they are so smart.

"Oh yeah? But do you know his hobbies? His favorite drink? What about his horse's name? Sure you might know his positions of the farmer's bill ten years ago, but do you really actually know anything else?"

--------

Armed with whatever else she has learned, Nicolette will move to the crew area once more and will ask them if she can utilize a disguise as a wait staff member to play a prank on someone. If they let her, she will don a nice disguise and carefully wrap up her hair in a worker's wrap to keep her hair out of the food. She plans on sneaking close to the High Strategos and listening in to what he prefers to talk about. She is all that is spy.

Disguise+minor changes only: 1d20 + 2 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 2 + 5 = 27

Feeling the hand on his shoulder as the Lady Edelmira passes by, Kunala makes eye contact with Edelmira, giving her an almost imperceptible nod. 'This is our time, we must take the battle to them.'

Inspired by Lady Edelmira's affection, Kunala walks up the the fidgeting Kalbio; giving a polite if not abbreviated bow, he offers to shake hands. "A pleasure to meet you." After giving Kalbio's hand a gentle and slightly limp squeeze, he gestures back towards the departing Edelmira. "I see you have met Lady Edelmira. Did I hear you correctly in that you are a tailor by trade?'

Kunala pauses for a moment pondering some of the other nobles, raised or otherwise, and their past accomplishments. Rolling his eyes, and continuing in his genteel lisp, "As you can probably tell by the attention, I am a dancer by trade. The young lady is one of my students." He smiles, "Even here it's hard not to 'talk shop.' Am I right?"

knowledge (nobility): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26 wow, it appears the dice are either feast or famine!

Knowledge (nobility) w/weakness known: 1d20 + 8 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 8 + 4 = 16

So, Countess Pace has little loyalty to anyone but herself, and she wants people who can be of use to her. Edelmira can provide a suitable bait for that hook. "I am just returned from my education in Cheliax at the Egorian Officer's Academy. I am sadly just a typical Taldan, nothing so exotic. It was an honor and privilege to be amongst such powerful company. I imagine you would be shocked to hear some of the names. And that is not even getting into the secret embarassments I have seen." Edelmira plays the conversation off as though she is merely a engenue attempting to impress a potential patron with who she knows. If Countess Pace sees it as an opportunity to get leverage versus powerful people, then that is her own genius at work, clearly. She wants Pace to see an engenue with information she does not know the worth of, an easy target for Pace to toy with.

I am purposefully avoiding looking up nobles more than absolutely necessary, so assume the knowledge check is her name-dropping or leaving clear hints towards certain other persons of import that were at the academy at the same time as her

That is fifteen minutes of my life that I won't get back Cassandra reflects to herself as she finishes the tour, carefully pocketing the gifted items. She figured that at least they could prove useful in the future even if she didn't have any use for them at the moment.

Observing the room, Cassandra realizes that some of her friends were starting to make fast progress on some of the personal missions that had been selected for them. She decides that that if she got her own mission out of the way she might enjoy the party with less stress involved. Carefully considering her approach, Cassandra flits through the crowd of people, waiting for a suitable pause before engaging the Baron in conversation, making the approach seem as casual as possible rather than direct.

"Ah, if it isn't the famous Baron Nicolaus Okerra! I don't believe that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting you before." Cassandra begins by way of an introduction, placing a light hand just below her collarbone, the extravagant gesture meant to convey excitement and surprise at the meeting.

"I'm Cassandra, Cassandra Flaminia. I'm just a humble senate aide trying to do my part in benefiting Taldor's glory - I don't quite have a reputation as illustrious as yours! How are you spending your time these days Baron. Anything scandalous that I should be aware of?" she teases in a lighthearted, playful tone, offering a light giggle to let the man know that she is only joking and attempting to break the ice.

Knowledge Nobility: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24

Nicolette

Nicolette can see that the staff will hang on her every word, all nodding in agreement with her words in a sycophantic daze. She feels certain that many are just too overawed by her position in the Royal family for her to truly reach them on their own level.

The tour is much as she would have expected, though the Curator still seems disappointed to have missed out on seeing Edelmira's axe thus far. But the gifted items of one bottle each of universal solvent and unguent of timelessness ensure the time is not wasted at least.

She is somewhat frustrated by her attempt to learn more about the High Strategos from those discussing history in the Imperial Archive. Most keep trying to turn the topic to one of Pythareus ancestors, most especially his late father. But she does hear that he enjoys riding his horse, Honor, in the country on his days off.

Nicolette has no trouble disguising herself as wait staff and drifts inconspicuously through the crowd to overhear Pythareus conversing with Gala guests. Most are clearly empty pleasantries but then she notices someone approach the High Strategos and receive more than a perfunctory greeting. "Ho there Maxillar, how goes the watch? What did you think of the Princess' speech." The gentleman asks, clearly a high ranking noble and associate to address Pythareus by his first name, and rather handsome in a familiar sort of way.

"About as well as can be expected, Bartelby. She speaks well, for a woman. A shame my father had to miss it. It may have been his last opportunity." The other man chuckles briefly as if Pythareus had told a joke.

Though the exchange seems on the surface to be anything but earth-shattering, something about the tone of it all strikes the Duchess as ominous all the same. Especially given that the High Strategos has been head of his House for many years, his father long since deceased as Nicolette learned earlier in the Imperial Archives.
You forgot your perception roll, so I just subbed in taking 10 for the mission. That is 1 of 3 attempts to spy on Pythareus accomplished.

______________________________________________________________________

Kunala

Kalbio seems relieved by the turn of the conversation to something he can speak of with more confidence. ”Oh, I’m not a tailor, but I do make cloth. I’m a weaver. My tapestries are what most of the nobility has been impressed with. There are some on display over here if you’d like to see.” He points out one woodland scene with all manner of forest creatures rendered in rich and loving detail, with a bold lion standing proudly in the center wrought in thread of gold. ”This one I made to honor the Royal family of Taldor.”

A small crowd of nobles gathers to hear Kalbio speak of his creations and they applaud his artistry and patriotism, many seeming truly impressed by his talent and more genuinely invested in his coming Exaltation.

Kunala has cleared the first threshold and unlocked the ability to use any of the skills available to influence the Senate Floor in any other area of the Senate building. These include Bluff, Knowledge (local, nobility, or religion), Perform (oratory), Profession (clerk or barrister), or Sense Motive.

______________________________________________________________________

Edelmira

The Countess seems only slightly disappointed to be corrected that Edelmira is not Chelaxian after all. ”Well, I daresay that anything scandalous by Chelaxian standards would be enough to curl my hair. My Lady’s Maid would certainly appreciate the time off!” She laughs brightly and is clearly interested in what Edelmira has to say next. ”Well, you know what they say: if you don’t have anything nice to say about anybody, come sit by me!”

The Countess can be influenced with a successful Diplomacy check. Remember that your mission is to be able to tell Martella how you expect she will vote on the repeal of Primogeniture.

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Cassandra

The Baron chuckles amiably as he shakes his head to Cassandra’s query. ”Alas, I fear I’ve grown too old for scandal. Though I could wish it was not so with such a lovely conversation partner. No, my daughter is the one who seeks out trouble these days. My task is to try and keep her out of it, and frankly I would sooner face a score of gladiators in the Arena. I suspect I would have a better chance at success, at least. But you didn’t come to hear a father’s woes, I'm sure. Is there some aspect of Taldan law you wished to discuss?” He smiles as he waits patiently for Cassandra's reply.

The Baron can be influenced with a successful Knowledge(Local) check. Remember that your mission is to encourage the Baron to support the repeal of Primogeniture.

Edelmira smiles and laughs along to follow Countess Pace's lead. The Countess does appear to at least be legitimately witty, so she has to fake less that she thought. She takes up the Countess's offer to join her,

"You are familiar with young Lorenzo Lancaster, of course. He came to the school in the same class as me and he went at the prospect of finding a 'suitable wife' with a strategy that I would call 'casting a wide net.' And he caught the entire school and the entire city of Egorian in it. And he was persistent, for once he sighted a mark, he would not let them go until they had accepted an invitation to tea. At the meeting, he would subject to them to a barrage of questions about their economic situation and social status. I know this because he even included me in his net, despite my own clear preferences otherwise, and I accepted to have him leave me alone."

"Two months before we were set to graduate, a teacher found him in a tucked-away out-of-use classroom underground having, ahem, 'tea' with a scion of House Charthagnion. Frederick of House Charthagnion." She shrugs, a coy smile emerging. "Now, most of us suspected his 'taste in tea' was of such a character, and this is the 4700s, and nobody cares if you prefer the taste of roses, lilies, or lavendar. The addition of various 'impact implements,' finely-crafted leathers, and a Saint Clydwell's Cross to the scene were not even particularly shocking. The teacher himself was not even upset by any of that."

Edelmira takes a sip of tea, letting the pause add some dramatic pause. "The tour of noble children that the teacher had with him was less receptive though. All of the children were sworn to secrecy in exchange for guaranteed admission. Not long after, Lord Lancaster announced a not-insignificant donation to the school." Edelmira splays her fingers and rests their tips upon her breast in an 'oh me?' gesture. "They sadly forgot to extract such a promise of secrecy from the student chaperone, trusting that she would have discretion on her own." She finishes off her drink. "And do you know why Lorenzo was so insistent about a wife despite his own preference for roses? He wanted to make sure they did not inherit his lands from him. Personally, I think it just goes to show you just how much primogeniture hurts us all, do you not think so?"

Diplomacy to Influence Pace: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Edelmira's storytelling may have taken a bit longer to build up than Pace would have liked, but the details of the context are utterly necessary for the full effect, at least in Edelmira's eyes. She is also not entirely happy with her transition to her true subject of interest at the end there, but it is what she has.

Raising an eyebrow as Kalbio explains he's a weaver, Seamus follows him toward the tapestry, admiring the mans work. Stepping back Kunala watches as the little man endears himself to the small crowd of nobles. As the small group begins to scatter, Kunala smiles politely, in his genteel lisp, "It has been a pleasure Lord Kalbio." He gestures towards the tapestry "I hope this evenings events will inspire a tapestry of their own." He nods to Kalbio; flinging his short cloak over his shoulder, placing a hand on his hip, he walks back out into the courtyard.

Meandering through the breathtaking gardens, he nods politely to those walking about, joining the small crowd that is gathering around the Lady Gloriana and the Princess Eytropia. Watching and listening, attempting to discern motives.

Using the first threshold from the senate floor, Kunala will attempt to 'sense motive' with Lady Gloriana Morilla and or Princess Eutropiain in the courtyard.
sense motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26

Of all the people she will likely meet that evening, the wait staff will probably be her most cherished. She moves to the curator and will make her apologies for Edie, but will make sure that if she can bring by the ax later, the curator will still provide a tour for her individually. After all, she knows her relation will have wanted to go.

With aid, she disguises herself and slips into the crowd. This is not so much like her, but also the first time she had not been in disguise for a prank. It is challenging to offer food nearby willingly to those who she knows, remain unseen, and yet still listen in. At times, she will try to "stand at the ready" for people who wish to come to her. In these moments, her back will be turned from the two speaking about her cousin.

"Honor" will be remembered by Nicolette as it is similar to her family's own named horses. "Bartelby. A close influence."

She tries to think about who this Bartelby is, what his connection is, and what she had heard in the past about Maxillar's father that would explain the joke.

"Was his father a fond supporter of primogeniture?"

"Try some of these. They are wonderful, sir," she will voice to a nearby noble who comes up to her tray, but she will not make eye contact, as most waitstaff do not.

In the end, she will decide she's lingered long enough and will head back to the staff area to change. It takes her a good while and she will have some of the more helpful female staff help her back into her dress and to make sure she is looking fine. Due to their kindness, she will invite them for a lunch on the following week if plans permit. Once again, the invitation is not much more than what they'd expect from a simple friend. She will head out back into the crowd to mingle and find out what she has missed.

Ran out of time to work, so had to leave out the social round replies, expect them tomorrow, probably.

After an hour has passed since Eutropia's speech, your senate aide badges all chime with a soft tone and Martella Lotheed's voice sounds in your ears. "Hello again, my talented friends. Please join me in the Gallery at your earliest convenience, I have some refreshments for us all. See you soon!" She says brightly.

You ascend the stairway to the second floor Gallery to meet with Martella, When you first arrive, Lady Lotheed watches gleefully as a halfling performer clowns with a group of children. They dance in a slowed motion faux battle with the jester taking exaggerated cartoonish tumbles and falls from the children's blows. She stands near an area that has been sectioned off on the upper walkways with chairs and a pot of fresh coffee as well as some assorted canapes and a full tea service. She laughs loudly at a particularly comical display and cuts it off abruptly and clears her throat to compose herself as she notices the group approaching.

”Lovely to see you all, I trust you are enjoying the Gala?” She says as she leads the party toward their seats. A shadowy figure stands at attention and bows deeply to Edelmira at your approach. ”Look who I spotted lurking nearby while you were chatting up the Countess. It appears Edelmira somehow managed a covert plus one. Your Hubert is quite resourceful, it seems.” She says, addressing the compliment to Edie. The dark, slender youth smiles lazily, one side of his mouth quirking up as he meets Edelmira’s eyes, not at all bothered by the possessive tone of the praise. ”Please, help yourself. Can you believe dinner won’t be served for another hour or more? Remember to stay hydrated, the Gala is a marathon, not a sprint. You lot seem to have the knack for it, though. So tell me, how goes the hunt?” She asks with a casual wink as she settles into her seat and gestures for you all to do the same.

After she listens to your replies about your progress so far, she says ”I didn’t ask you here just to look over your shoulders. There’s a young woman here tonight: Malphene Trant, the daughter of Senator Trant.” Martella gestures over the rail to an imposing young woman who strolls along in the Emperor’s Hall below. "She’s a belligerent, narcissistic ass, and a bully besides. If she’s here, it’s likely to intimidate one of more of the junior senators into backing her father and opposing the repeal. If one or more of you could keep an eye on her and... quietly intercede if she should try, I would be most grateful. The cricket should help mask sounds of a scuffle, should one break out. Oh, and I have a message that needs delivering, if anyone would like to do that for me.” She looks around expectantly as she nibbles a tea cake.

With the Baron

"My, I see the stories about your legendary charm are true" Cassandra remarks, smiling at the Barons compliment for a moment as she ponders how best to convince the man to favor primogeniture. The task was not going to be a simple one for a man with such traditionalist leanings but...Cassandra wondered if the mans daughter could be a potential avenue to explore. She just had to be extremely diplomatic about how she brought it up to avoid offending the baron by bringing his daughter into a conversation on politics.

"Seeing as you mentioned it, and seeing as its the theme of the party tonight, what is your opinion on primogeniture?" Cassandra asks, giving a theoretical sigh as she does so, certain that the man might have been asked this before.

"Personally, I was initially uncertain, but I don't believe it makes much sense to keep such gender roles separate. I'm sure for instance that your daughter is just as talented as other boys her age in the art of swordplay - despite causing her father a headache as she does so. Its situations like that where I grow skeptical about denying inheritance rights or opportunities based off what gender someone was born as. Purely, I'd prefer we use other metrics to determine things such has competency - although I admit, I am extremely biased" she finishes, with a cheeky grin at the Baron.

Just putting both social rounds here, since Cassandra's goal would have been to influence the Baron on these two rounds.

Knowledge Local (Influencing the Baron: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
Knowledge Local (Influencing the Baron: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16

Edie's last social round of this event

Having succeeded in gaining some of the Countess Pace's favor, Edelmira observes her closely for any signs of her feelings on the upcoming vote. She tried to pace the conversation naturally so that the Countess would think she is speaking entirely of her own accord, not wanting to prick the petty Pace's pride. Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Blech, probably not enough, but it's what I've got

Meeting up with Martella and Hubert

"Why, I am as surprised as you are, Lady Lotheed." That is to say, not surprised at all. She smiles softly. "Cassandra, Kunala, may I introduce Hubert Merosett. I am certain you remember Hubert, Nicolette." She nods in regard to her cousin, throwing in the beginnings of a playful smile. Nicolette is perhaps the only one here that would remember them before their names switched. Edelmira returns her attention to the group as a whole. "Hubert is my brother in all but blood, so you can speak as freely with him as you would with me." She takes the seat next to him so they can catch each other up to speed when the opportunity presents itself.

She gives thoughtful evaluations of her own progress and listens with equal--if not greater--interest to her comrades. "I may need to work with the Countess a tad longer to get a full read on her and would like to finish speaking with her before she loses interest." She glances to Hubert. "I am sure Hubert would be happy to deliver a letter or keep an eye on someone."

"Ah, so that is what these are known to do. I knew you'd have some tricks up your sleeve with this," she thinks to herself as she makes her way casually toward the gallery.

The stairs are nice and wide so they aren't much of a challenge to rise up to the second floor. Her allies are there too, watching Martella see a performance. Nicolette doesn't hesitate to enter and goes right for the canapes.

"Yes, I remember him. Of course, good to see you as always, Hubert. It's been too long."

She will offer him her hand and then allows him to properly greet her. She will then return to her plate and enjoying her delicious canape.

"The hunt? Well...I have some particularly interesting details I'm picking up about Maxillar." She will flash a grin to show that she's serious and not just making up lies.

Malphene Trant, she's been no worse than your typically narcissistic noble. It is interesting to hear Martella's view of her. Frankly, Nicolette would love to punch Malphene in the mouth for a particularly snooty comment made three years ago at a party. They haven't talked since.

"I would prefer to keep an eye on Malphene."