"That's the spirit, Tychus!" An animated Trevor exclaimed. "Come now! Anyone else? Witnessing a drunk Abadaran should be worth the experience!"
Icabhod is irritated. Knowing that someone is now shadowing him makes him unable to focus on studying and he fruitlessly tries to observe the area but is not ale to get in the right frame of mind.
I agree, having a time to rest and refresh is needed. I shall join you.
Henrika smiles at her new friends' camaraderie and begs off politely. "I have an errand to run, but I may be able to join you afterward. If I am unable to make it, please accept this small token for Cayden's hospitality in lieu of my presence." She hands Trevor a silver coin.
She briefly tells Falchion about her meeting with Lady Martella (though she does not tell him her name, saying only 'a well-connected patron who does not care for her family'), and explains what she has asked Henrika to do. "I am hoping that you, or perhaps one of our other friends, would be able to take a job amongst the staff for the gala, and thus place yourselves in position to assist me in a small bit of legerdemain. I do not believe anyone will be hurt, but it will be a great joke on my patron's half-brothers if we are successful. What do you say, old jack? Will you help me?"
"If you promise to get me a round." Xallis gestures wide and dons his most inviting smile. "I'm not familiar with the specialty drinks at that establishment, so you'll have to be me, oh... let's call it ambassador!"
Navia eyes each member of the group curiously, then she smiles in turn. "New friends? Oh, I usually don't get to go to taverns. Could be fun!"
"I agree, having a time to rest and refresh is needed. I shall join you."
"Yes!" Trevor clutches his fists in victory.
Henrika smiles at her new friends' camaraderie and begs off politely. "I have an errand to run, but I may be able to join you afterward. If I am unable to make it, please accept this small token for Cayden's hospitality in lieu of my presence." She hands Trevor a silver coin.
The caydenite takes the silver coin with deep respect and bows. "I shall make sure this coin goes to some deserving soul's drink. Thank you very much, Lady Kathhis."
"If you promise to get me a round." Xallis gestures wide and dons his most inviting smile. "I'm not familiar with the specialty drinks at that establishment, so you'll have to be me, oh... let's call it ambassador!"
"Then, how fortunate, for both us, you have someone of the faith to assist in a introduction to the caydenite way. I am truly blessed", Trevor says with a smile.
Navia eyes each member of the group curiously, then she smiles in turn. "New friends? Oh, I usually don't get to go to taverns. Could be fun!"
Trevor steps forward to acknowledge the new arrival. "Why, hello miss. A friend of Mr. Livara. Wonderful! I am Trevor Kastner, cleric of Cayden Cailean. Very pleased to make your acquaintance." The caydenite offers to kiss the fellow outsider's hand.
"Well, let's us hail a carriage and make way!"
Meanwhile, the others head towards Cayden’s Mug. The building is a large two-story wooden structure shaped like an oversized lodge. The warm light from the huge central hearth welcomes you all inside. As you would expect it to be, the tavern is packed with late-night patrons. Busty wenches carrying fists full of tankards frothing with fresh ale squeeze through the crowd, splashing and laughing as they go. One of the women recognizes Trevor when the party walks in and rushes over and grabs tightly onto his arm.
”Treeevooor! Where’ve you been?” The waitress whines. ”We’ve been looking for you. Are you working tonight? We could certainly use your help. The Mug’s so full, I haven’t had a break all night.” She guides you over to a table where a passed out man is sprawled on top of it; a tankard still in his hand, dripping the remnants of its contents onto the floor. ”Up with you! This table is for drinking, not for sleeping.” She smacks the man’s head and only receives a groan in return. Almost effortlessly, she slips under the man’s arm and hoists him up and starts carrying him towards the stairs. ”I’ll put this one up in a room. Make yourselves comfortable. Angela will take care of you.”
You sit down at the sticky table and take in the surroundings. A roast boar is cooking over the fire and a bard on a lute stands on top of another table, playing a fast-paced song and dancing with a series of hops and kicks. Loud cheers make conversation difficult without raising your voice. The place certainly is lively.
Another waitress, Angela presumably, soon makes an appearance and thrusts a serving tray in your faces filled with tankards, goblets, and glasses of varying designs and sizes. Each filled with a different mysterious drink. ”Pick you poison, m’lords and ladies. We’re honoring Grand Prince Beldam I tonight. Take a chance. Be adventurous. Cayden Cailean is with you this evening. And don’t worry, all of them are safe. At least if you’re not too light of weight. And if you happen to see the ghost of the late Beldam himself in these very halls, be not afraid!” she says with a flourish and produces an oddly shaped stick vaguely in the shape of a portly man. ”We have provided each table with this surefire protection.” She puts her hand over the side of her mouth. ”Just don’t hit him too hard.”
At the mention of this character, you look around again and do notice an overweight man in blue face paint and wearing a fake crown sneaking around Cayden’s Mug and jumping out at unsuspecting bystanders trying to make them spill their drinks.
”Treeevooor! Where’ve you been?” The waitress whines. ”We’ve been looking for you. Are you working tonight? We could certainly use your help. The Mug’s so full, I haven’t had a break all night.”
"Oh no!" Trevor exclaims with a slight smile, likely enjoying the sensation of where his arm is currently. "I shall see what I can do, Marceline. Poor girl. I'm just gonna get a quick drink, then put an apron on."
Another waitress, Angela presumably, soon makes an appearance and thrusts a serving tray in your faces filled with tankards, goblets, and glasses of varying designs and sizes. Each filled with a different mysterious drink. ”Pick you poison, m’lords and ladies. We’re honoring Grand Prince Beldam I tonight. Take a chance. Be adventurous. Cayden Cailean is with you this evening. And don’t worry, all of them are safe. At least if you’re not too light of weight. And if you happen to see the ghost of the late Beldam himself in these very halls, be not afraid!” she says with a flourish and produces an oddly shaped stick vaguely in the shape of a portly man. ”We have provided each table with this surefire protection.” She puts her hand over the side of her mouth. ”Just don’t hit him too hard.”
At the mention of this character, you look around again and do notice an overweight man in blue face paint and wearing a fake crown sneaking around Cayden’s Mug and jumping out at unsuspecting bystanders trying to make them spill their drinks.
"Evening, Angela!" Trevor greeted over the din, and took a large brass chalice full of greenish dark liquid. The cleric quickly put the chalice doiwn and recovered Henrika's silver piece. "A donation to the temple bar tab. Any injuries or other clerical duties of higher prioty?" The Kastner noble slammed the contents of the cheap chalice in seconds. "Yech!" Trevor winced. "Licorice!"
Icabhod follows the others to the tavern and the tension drains somewhat as the cherry atmosphere washes over him. Although he still keeps in mind
that their observer might be lurking in the crowd as well.
As the group sits down, Trevor picks a tankard and is pleasantly surprised at the rich beer. He also notices the blue painted man. Hopefully that fellow over there won't meet the same fate as the late prince. Getting bashed over the head by your wife is a sad fate.
Trevor steps forward to acknowledge the new arrival. "Why, hello miss. A friend of Mr. Livara. Wonderful! I am Trevor Kastner, cleric of Cayden Cailean. Very pleased to make your acquaintance." The caydenite offers to kiss the fellow outsider's hand.
Navia follows along, offering her hand. "Charmed." The eidolon looks over her hand, marveling at the novelty of the experience.
Xallis stares blankly when he notices the 'bust' given to the group. "Who would like to have the... honor? Of whatever this is."
Navia eyes each member of the group curiously, then she smiles in turn. "New friends? Oh, I usually don't get to go to taverns. Could be fun!"
Tychus says nothing about the new addition to the group, but there is a unmistakable look of concern washing over his face. For a second it looks as though he might speak up, but ultimately he holds his tongue and nods at her.
Once at the tavern, he picks up a goblet and takes a deep breath. He grimaces slightly, grits his teeth, and takes a gulp.
"I'm not usually the reckless type. And whatever this is, I'm certainly not the target audience. Much too exotic for my tastes."
Even though he made his distaste clear, he doesn't hesitate to finish it all the same. He sets the empty goblet back on the table and spends some time looking around the tavern. When his gaze falls upon the "Grand Prince", he shakes his head, unimpressed by the entertainment.
Day 4
Calistril 22, 4718 (Oathday) (Oppara, Taldor)
Tomorrow is the Grand Day of Exaltation. You make any final preparations you need to do before your meeting with Martella Lotheed the next day.
With no immediate emergencies at Cayden's Mug, Trevor excuses himself while the rest of his coterie continue to enjoy the revelry around them. The Kastner noble reemerges from the back without his waist coast, silken shirt sleeves rolled up, held by bartender wraps. The aasimar goes to relieve Marceline as he goes to deliver drinks to Table 28b. The investigator, summoner, and archer continue to drink, while failing to get the busy cleric's attention. Eventually, the three men and the eidolon make their way home, waving to Trevor in passing.
After several hours, the next shift arrives. Trevor and Marceline eat a small pastie together in the back, a game of footsie taking place beneath the table.
Day 4
Trevor and Marceline are up before the dawn, as the cleric assists the waitress out of Kastner Manor before Mrs. Abernathy knocks to wake him. Kastner Manor is busier than normal, so the exit of someone who wasn't part of the house staff was ignored. Trevor performs his morning prayers with a light white wine, using the diving bowl to find that Cayden wishes him to work at The Gatehouse in Lionsgate today. Trevor works through the lunch rush. Afterward, the cleric returns to Kastner Manor for a quick bath, and returns to the busy tailor shop for some final adjustments to his outfit the next day.
Lir follows the group into the tavern and seems to be a just as excited as the rest of the patrons near instantly, as if she was feeding off of the energy in the room.
"Do you have something exotic? I'm not a huge fan of most typical drinks but I can always enjoy a more...ethereal drink. Though, whatever you have will do fine, I'm sure."
She enjoys the rest of the night with her new budding companions, spending plenty of time listening to any stories of their background they wish to share but specifically directs any inquiries into hers to other topics.
Day 4
Icabhod feels rather weary after a long day and takes his leave in order to return to his quarters and get enough rest for the following day.
Day 4
Icabhod wakes early and gets himself washed and dressed and makes sure to check in with his employer that he will be attending the Gala later in the day. Giving the premises and staff a look over before getting dressed in his new outfit and heading to destiny.
A few drinks in, Navia eyes Liraela up and down. Then she turns to her summoner with a cheerful look on her face. "Ohh, is she the one you were talking about with the pretty scales? I see what you mean!"
Xallis turns a bit more red and does his best to focus on having his drink, but manages to mumble an affirmative between long sips.
The eidolon simply continues to pester him. "You should gimmie scales like that. Or maybe a tail. Oooh, a tail would be fun. Like a dragon!"
Xallis does his absolute best to prepare for the day. Which, really, isn't all that much. A few practiced statements, double and triple checking his outfit, some time keeping up with family affairs, and a little free time with Navia.
Day 5
Calistril 23, 4718 (Fireday) (Oppara, Taldor)
You return to the café, Lion Noir on Senate Hill at noon as scheduled. You each arrive timely and enter at the same time.
Long, golden beams of the setting sun dance through the cafe’s smoky interior, highlighting breads, cheeses, and wine bottles behind the only counter. Martella 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 this evening,” 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.”
Martella allows a moment for each of you to reintroduce yourselves and to order any food or drink that you’d like.
Next, she presents each of you with a small brass brooch featuring the heraldry of the Voritas family and indicates that you should pin them on to your clothing or armor. ”These are senate aide badges. The badges once belonged to the staff of the long-dead Senator Voritas, whose family line was involved in the senate for nearly a thousand years before dying out about a century ago. The badges will identify you as attending staff of a senator. Senators and other politicians of note traditionally hand out senate aide badges of extinct or exiled family lines to guests they invite to senate events, identifying them at a glance as guests rather than sitting senators or staff. These badges will allow you access to the senate during the historic vote set to take place tonight. The badges also allow for two-way communication with the master senator badge.” Martella points to a similar-looking badge pinned to her gown. ”Only the wearer of the master senator badge can initiate communication which you will receive telepathically. Once a message is received, you will have 1 minute to send a telepathic reply of up to 25 words. All you need to do is concentrate on your response and I will receive it.”
”Now that that is out of the way, let’s review your missions again. If you have any questions, now is the time to ask them. But should you still need to find me during the gala, I intend to spend most of the evening in the senate gallery.”
”Oh, in addition, I’d like to reward you further for your initiative and resourcefulness investigating me and your other targets. She slides a tied off leather bag across the table towards you. You may divide up and use these items however you deem fit.
The contents of the bag are:
A few drinks in, Navia eyes Liraela up and down. Then she turns to her summoner with a cheerful look on her face. "Ohh, is she the one you were talking about with the pretty scales? I see what you mean!"
Xallis turns a bit more red and does his best to focus on having his drink, but manages to mumble an affirmative between long sips.
The eidolon simply continues to pester him. "You should gimmie scales like that. Or maybe a tail. Oooh, a tail would be fun. Like a dragon!"
Lir laughs lightly at the strange woman complimenting her so openly, and gives a wide smile.
"Unfortunately I do not have a tail, as fun as that would be. Are you responsible for your companions appearence? They do say imitation is the sincerest sort of flattery, you know." she gives Xallis a conspiratory wink before laughing and taking another sip of her drink.
Liraela awakens on the day of the gala refreshed and ready for the trial ahead. She performs her daily rituals, slowly putting on each piece of clothing in perfect order to prepare her for the day, ending with the fake jewelry she had borrowed.
She makes her way to the café as agreed upon and greets the group inside. "Good morning, all. Hope you slept well, we have a lot ahead of us!"
Turning to Martella, she thanks her for the reward.
"If we're worried about these being discovered and outed as more than we are, I could always hide them inside my inking supplies. Ravithra knows I have done that more than once."
Tychus awakens without much sleep yet again, but this time due to the nerves that come before a mission. When undertaking small missions by himself, he never had to worry much. But now, others were depending on him to succeed, and this pressure was more than he was used to. His mind was so out of sorts, that he forgets to check the markets/acquire breakfast before rendezvousing with the others.
"Good morning, all. Hope you slept well, we have a lot ahead of us!"
"Morning." he responds curtly, but politely. "I didn't sleep much, I was too busy planning for the gala." he blurts out. He wasn't quite sure why he decided to lie here. He definitely wanted to portray himself as dependable and prepared.
“I’m so pleased you could join me this evening,” 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.”
Tychus gladly orders the jam. Not quite the fresh produce he usually enjoyed, but he was sure it would hit the spot nonetheless.
”Now that that is out of the way, let’s review your missions again. If you have any questions, now is the time to ask them. But should you still need to find me during the gala, I intend to spend most of the evening in the senate gallery.”
"Do you wish for me to remain near you, until you have a message for me to relay? Or should I move about until such a time?"
"Do you wish for me to remain near you, until you have a message for me to relay? Or should I move about until such a time?"
"No, you do not need to remain near me. You can move about however you wish. If I have any additional messages for you to deliver, I will contact you."
Trevor looks at his assignment. "Any likely candidates you recommend?"
Henrika avails herself of the delicacies of the coffee house, and wrinkles her nose at the sharp, sweet taste of the jam, but smiles to conceal her dislike from their patron. She accepts her badge with grace, pinning it to the front of her courtier's outfit and making a sort of salute once it is affixed in place. She is quiet and pensive, nodding to Lady Martella and the others as they speak, but seemingly lost in her own thoughts as she goes over her mission and plans out the steps necessary to conduct the required sabotage.
"Any likely candidates you recommend?"
"That's for you to find out. Any senator who backs primogeniture will do."
How far do these badges work?
Xallis approaches the group while wearing a black suit with sharp red trimming, unbuttoned down to the waist with a fancy shirt beneath and somewhat form-fitting leggings, all beneath a matching coat that has low hanging hems, giving him the silhouette of a robed mage. He adjusts his decorative circlet, briefly showing a glimpse of a rune on his forehead that matches the dimly glowing red rune above Navia's collar bone.
"The emblems of lost and fallen houses? I feel like there's something symbolic about that." He grins as he accepts his badge, his pose slightly exaggerated to show off his attire. "I wonder if it's meant to remind us what we have the potential to be, or... where we'll be going if we can't prove our worth to high society."
Despite the somber implications, his tone is quite playful. Navia looks down at her talons and clacks them against the floor. "And I wonder if I should have gotten these covered in gold or something. We gotta treat ourselves to something nice when this is done, right Pupa?"
Xallis sighs. "Not in front of the others, Navia..." He makes a dismissive gesture, but she just chuckles and nudges him.
And speaking of everyone." Xallis regards the group with a nod. "We all have our own agenda, as well as our own assignments, but let's not be afraid to call upon one another if needed. There's no shame in working as a team, especially when we're all at the relative bottom of the food chain."
How far do these badges work?
"I haven't tested their limits but they'll at least let me contact you anywhere within the city."
"We all have our own agenda, as well as our own assignments, but let's not be afraid to call upon one another if needed. There's no shame in working as a team, especially when we're all at the relative bottom of the food chain."
“Overall, tonight 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, 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. If you all complete your work without need of me to clean anything up, I will happily double my promised fee.”
“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 to begin your own political ambitions, but do be discreet.”
Martella hands Tychus a sealed letter and Henrika a liquid-filled syringe. And with that, you are dismissed and make your way to the Senate.
The Senate Building, Senate Hill, Oppara
The Taldan senate, sometimes referred to as the senate building or simply the senate, is the seat of the senatorial branch of the Taldan government. 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. The current senate building is a grandiose, T-shaped edifice constructed from white marble. 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.
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 get 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 will take several hours to finally reach the front. During this time, dozens of overeager merchants attempt to sell a variety of wares to you and other staffers—mostly novelty Taldan flags and phony pieces of historical memorabilia. 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.
While on line you overhear another rumor as well.
The Vishkanya appears to be quite enjoying herself already, even with the long line and the even longer wait.
”Such a wonderful sight! It’s been many years since I have seen the Senate Building, it’s good to see it again.
She turns to her companions looking at each of them.
”Have any of you been to it before?”
Icabhod sighs as he stands in line, clearly annoyed with all the noise and crowd. Not really. He answers. I don't like such levels of noise and crowds, and I feel insecure. I do hope we can get in without too much more of a wait so we can busy ourselves.
Tychus looks at the Senate building forlornly. He tugs on his apparel with obvious discomfort, his meagre jewellery looking far too fancy for his calloused hands.
"You could say I've been in there once or twice. Not long enough to make friends, mind you."
Icabhod sighs as he stands in line, clearly annoyed with all the noise and crowd. Not really. He answers. I don't like such levels of noise and crowds, and I feel insecure. I do hope we can get in without too much more of a wait so we can busy ourselves.
"Luckily for us, the crowd and noise are perfect for us to blend in. We'll be able to go about our work without too many prying eyes. Hopefully..."
He constantly readjusts his aide badge, clearly unhappy with the way it limply lies on his chest, taking the spot usually meant for his holy symbol.
It isn't long before Navia's folding her arms and tapping her talons. Every now and then she glances at the senate building and grins.
"No, Navia." Xallis speaks up without making eye contact with her. "We are not going to 'give it a shot for funsies.' We are going to politely wait in line."
"I didn't say anything~" chirps the eidolon, putting on her best pouty face.
"No, but you were thinking it so hard that I could barely hear our friends."
She turns to her companions looking at each of them.
”Have any of you been to it before?”
Xallis smiles. "Speaking of. No, Lireala, I've never been here before. I've always wanted to go with my parents on business, but they insisted that I 'earn it' on my own merit. I'm sure they'll be proud when I come home singing of the evening's accomplishments."
"Luckily for us, the crowd and noise are perfect for us to blend in. We'll be able to go about our work without too many prying eyes. Hopefully..."
Navia nods in agreement. "Crowds are good. Noise too. I was pretty much made for the quiet stuff, so I can help with an extra set of eyes while everyone else is getting yappy." She sniffs the air. "And an extra nose. I can tell from a man's breath at ten paces if he's been sampling the wine."
Two hours later, when you are about halfway through the line, a dreary inspector, a Vudrani woman, makes her way through the crowd. She pulls you aside and demands, ”Follow me! You’ve been selected for a random inspection. Don’t cause any trouble.” You nervously follow her as she leads you away from the crowd near the base of the steps to the senate building. Once away from the crowd, say offers, ”I’m sorry for the deception. My name is Kathann Zalar and we have a common friend. Go along with me and I’ll get you inside quickly.”
Icabhod looks at the woman suspiciously. I will have to keep an eye on her. Why thank you very much, it has been far too long a wait.
Lir looks the woman over before following her instructions, moving away from the line to the privacy of the steps.
”It’s good to see our common friend has some connections in the right places.” she says, slyly smiling as she realizes.
She continues speaking in Vishkanya, to let Kathann know that Liraela knows her ‘secret’. It’s a stereotypically serpent-flavored language full of S’s and winding words that are hard to follow for non-Vishkanyas, even if they have learned the language. Having the longer forked tail that the descendants of nagas possess is nearly a requirement.
Kathann responds to Liraela in Vishkanya.
"As a vishkanya daughter of immigrants in a land where our people are relatively unknown, disguise and subterfuge come naturally to me. Perhaps you've been lucky to avoid discrimination, but here, you will never be considered an equal among most humans. I dream of a new, different Taldor where those who stand outside of the human majority don’t need to hide themselves in shame, though I may be too broken to live in such a world myself. Perhaps another time, I can reveal to you my true form. This won't be the last time our paths cross. But for now, to help you, I need to pass for a senate guard."
The inspection is a short affair, with Kathann quickly glancing over each of you. She gives you tips on how to properly conceal your equipment. She then ushers you ahead of the line. "Good luck."
You ascend the hundred white marble steps to the senate building as many of the other attendants trapped on line give you sour looks. At the top, you take a moment to catch your breath, then enter through the main entrance. Hundreds of nobles, senatorial aides, and visiting dignitaries mingle within and without the grand halls.
Outline of the areas of the senate and the location of the major NPCs:
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.
Influence Skills
Appraise DC 11
Knowledge (history or nobility) DC 12
Perception DC 14
Spellcraft DC 14
Use Magic Device DC 11
Personae Present
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus
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.
Influence Skills
Handle Animal DC 11
Knowledge (engineering, local, or nature) DC 14
Perform (keyboard, percussion, sing, string, or wind) DC 12
Personae Present
Lady Glorianna Morilla
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.
Influence Skills
None
Personae Present
None
The second floor of the senate building (not shown on the Senate of Taldor map) 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.
Influence Skills
Acrobatics DC 14
Disguise DC 14
Perform (act, comedy, or dance) DC 12
Sleight of Hand DC 14
Personae Present
Lady Martella Lotheed
Countess Abrielle Pace
??
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.
Influence Skills
Knowledge (arcana, geography, or history) DC 14
Linguistics DC 11
Profession (librarian or scribe) DC 11
Stealth DC 14
Personae Present
Duke Leonard Centimus
Count Orlandu Zespire
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.
Influence Skills
Bluff DC 14
Knowledge (local, nobility, or religion) DC 12
Perform (oratory) DC 12
Profession (clerk or barrister) DC 11
Sense Motive DC 14
Personae Present
Baron Nicolaus Okerra
??
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.
Influence Skills
Craft (alchemy, carpentry, jewelry, sculpture, or stonemasonry) DC 12
Heal DC 15
Intimidate DC 12
Profession (baker, butcher, cook, innkeeper, or porter) DC 11
Sense Motive DC 15
Personae Present
None
You each have a single social round in which you can choose to influence a specific location. Each major NPC is predisposed with sycophants and senatorial matters, considering the coming deliberation; so you cannot influence them during this round, nor can you attempt your mission. I gave the rules for influencing a location in the discussion Here. In addition to simply making a skill check, describe how you are using that skill to influence the people in the area you chose.
Xallis does his best to not look absolutely awestruck as he enters the senate building proper. The names, the faces, and the sheer sense ofelevation lead his unshackled smile to betray him.
"I'm... I'm going to go look for my Man of the Hour. Do keep in touch~" The giddy summoner wills himself to not hustle through the halls like an excitable child.
The senate floor. Here is where so many decisions are made, where so many debates sway minds, where wills clash over the future of the nation. And here is is target... surrounded by an impenetrable wall of distractions. For now, at least.
Xallis decides to occupy himself with the others in the area. What better time than now to make friends with fellow hopefuls, after all. A creeping doubt slithers around in Xallis' belly as he considers his next move. Should he join in their playing of roles? No, too presumptuous. Attempt to defeat them in mock debate? Risky, but risk has its place and he has time to be cautious.
Procedure. Politeness. Respect. Greet them politely, address them by their proper titles. You are new, you are unknown, so first impressions are everything.
Doing his best to carry himself respectfully, Xallis calls upon his studies to help break the ice.
Henrika waits uncomfortably in line with everyone else, questioning her decision to wear armor under her gown. The lines were fine, but it was warmer and inhibited her movement somewhat. Did I really think it's likely I could be attacked at this event? she thinks. Not really, though I do think it is important as a scion of House Karthis that I maintain an aura of military readiness. Still, it itches.
When asked if she has ever been to the Senate building, she shrugs noncommittally. She must have been, especially when she was younger and her father was still alive and active in politics, but in all honesty she didn't remember anything about it.
One thing does occur to her, however, after consulting with Kathann. "This syringe our patron gave me," she murmurs to her associates. "It would not do if anyone who is not for our cause saw it on my person and later recalled that I had it. Perhaps one of you would be able to help me hide it more effectively? My range of motion is somewhat limited in this dress." She specifically looks at Liraela, whom she has seen possesses skill with hiding objects already.
Once inside, Henrika bows politely to the others. "I will eventually have to investigate the servant area, but for now perhaps my talents would be put to best effect in the Arcade of Triumphs?" She hastens there and sees the High Strategos on one side of the hall, but unfortunately cannot get close to him and so takes in the exhibits while she tries to subtly establish her presence.
Icabhod plans on checking up on the 'helpful one' who got them in. He certainly isn't going to trust someone out of hand but decides to head up to the archives after some conversation made him aware of the location of
Duke Centimus,
He was quite dismayed at the state of the archives. Books out of place and poorly maintained. These tomes of past princes is in the wrong place. He intones and tries to find the proper shelf. The lineage of our leaders should be taken more seriously.
Perhaps one of you would be able to help me hide it more effectively?
Lir perks up immediately and moves to help Henrika without a second thought.
"Yes darling, of course I can help. Come here, come here, I see the perfect spot for it!" she says, sounding as if she were simply helping a friend get dressed instead of hiding a mysterious syringe which she wasn't even going to inquire about the contents of.
Entering the gala, her eyes brighten with excitement at the pure amount of opportunity and she gasps as she takes in all the wonderful color and activity in the senate house. "I think it's about time we make our entrances, don't you think? We have a lot of work to do!"
Lir walks into the Arcade of Triumphs, and although she isn't a huge fan of the style of most Taldan artwork or the idea of celebrating martial victories like this room was so obviously dedicated to, she sees her eavesdrop target in the area and needs to take the time to make a good impression.
She takes a look over the room and finds a particularly colorful tapestry on one of the walls and makes her way over to it to admire the colors. She has always loved colors.
"What a fine piece of art!" she calls out in excitement specifically loudly enough to draw the attention of anyone nearby. She was a striking figure in such a place, especially with the many colorful tattoos she wore openly, so it shouldn't be too hard to get some attention. "Such wonderful integration of the colors in this scene piece, the blues and greens of the landscape mix perfectly with the greys and reds of the castle in the foreground. I can see why it's being displayed here, it must be worth a fortune!"
Xallis
Xallis heads straight to the Senate Floor. Navia draws some curious looks but as long as she behaves the other nobles pass it off as Xallis’ eccentricity. It is easy for him to spot the ‘man of the hour’ because he stands out as out of place. A man who can be none other than Kalbio stands mostly alone in the center of the round floor. His calloused hands and sun-beaten face set him aside from most of the nobles who have never had to do physical labor. He fidgets uncomfortably with the noble finery that he is wearing, clearly unused to such clothes. He beams with wide eyes and a broad smile. He awkwardly attempts to converse with senators in the area but they can’t be bothered to give the bumpkin the time of day. Instead, he settles for chatting with the staff and partaking in the wine and hors d'oeuvres being passed around.
Xallis successful debates with some of the minor senators. By proving himself with his knowledge of the actions of previous noble leaders, word of this talented up-and-coming player spreads.
Henrika
She specifically looks at Liraela, whom she has seen possesses skill with hiding objects already. (Maybe an Aid Another check would be appropriate?)
A guest notices Henrika admiring the displays and walks over to her and engages in conversation. ”I see you are an appreciator of Taldan artifacts. Take a look at this one over here.” She points to a masterwork darkwood light crossbow adorned with brass inlay and Taldan military symbols resting in one of the cases. "The famed crossbow, Dignity’s Barb, was displayed in this case centuries ago, but it was lost and replaced with the reproduction that you see before you. The original weapon was once wielded by General Gerefein of the Seventh Army of Exploration. In his most famous act, he turned the tide of a vicious battle with a Kellid warlord. Through a chaotic blizzard, General Gerefein shot practically blind, yet his bolt struck a lethal blow, dashing the warlord from his mammoth mount and breaking the enemy’s charge. If the lost artifact were to be rediscovered, it would surely be considered a priceless treasure.”
Icabhod
As Icabhod tends to the tomes, a guide leads a group of nobles over to an old blueprint of the senate building. The guide explains that the current structure was built atop the ruins of several older senate constructions. To keep the attention of the crowd, the guide goes on to describe how some levels of the old senate involved the intentional immurement of workers—a grim reward from the nobles of the time.
Walcofindes are pitiful undead creatures that manifest when a living being is sealed within a structure and perishes there. These unquiet dead often rise after having been intentionally walled into a structure. This process is what many have attributed its name to, with some treatises on undead referring to them as “wall-coffined.”
Most adventurers stumble upon a walcofinde as it manifests from nearby walls, using its structural possession ability to move beyond its sealed chamber and unleash its rage against creatures traversing halls or caverns it possesses. In this manifested form, the walcofinde takes on the texture of the structure it possesses, appearing with the shape it had in life but made from stone, wood, or whatever substance makes up the wall from which it emerges.
Liraela
Liraela spots and overhears a guest talking about the history of a legendary crossbow with Henrika. Afterwards, when the woman hears Lireala exclaim her excitement over a painting, she takes a step towards her ready to share more of her knowledge, but when she gets a good look at Liraela, she changes her mind and retreats in the other direction. Nevertheless, some people are impressed by Liraela’s appraisal and the party’s influence over the area increases.
After hearing over this bit of info, Icabhod tries to find their 'helo' once again. He is still suspicious about them and intends to try to
shadow her and learn more. If he comes across others of his group poo, he will pass sling his suspicions.
Trevor holds his holy symbol for comfort. "Cayden! Poor bastards forced to guard their walled tombs! What an injustice!"
As Tychus walks through the threshold and into the building proper, he gulps nervously. His previous forays into the Senate building were much more clandestine in nature. And now it was packed with nobles and wannabes. The crowds themselves didn't give him any cause for concerns, for he had grown up in crowded streets, but these people were much different.
As each group member splits off, to take care of their own devices, he gives them non-committal grunts, too busy trying to figure out what to do and where to go, and doing his best to appear calm.
"I am far too out of my element here. How have I been dragged into this? Also, what do I do with my hands?! Act natural, Tychus, act natural!" he berates himself. He clears his throat and heads to the Senate Floor (A6).
He looks around for a group of people not dressed as fancily as the others. He figures he'd have an easier time approaching a crowd a bit closer in stature to himself. He attempts to strike up conversations about newly passed legislation and how it has affected local businesses.
Tychus
Tychus wins a debate against a particularly odious young politician, to the entertainment of nearby a nearby judge, who approaches him afterwards. The judge gives Tychus a friendly slap on the shoulder and says, ”I am impressed, young man. Tychus, is it? I must say I have never seen someone debate about newly passed legislation with such skill and passion. My name is Judge Dartist Mercenian. I’d like you to have this as a sign of my family’s favor.” He hands you a gold ring emblazoned with the Mercenian family crest. ”Keep it up and you’ll make an excellent senator one day.”
Trevor
Trevor walks around the gallery and makes comments to the other guests about the history and deeds of the Taldan nobles who once wielded some of the weapons on display.
The senate’s curator of antiquities, Copernia Vau (a comely middle-aged woman) approaches Trevor. ”Excuse me, sir. I couldn’t help noticing you…no. I mean, your interest in history.” She fidgets shyly. ”I was wondering if you’d be interested in a brief tour of the adjoining restoration room, where artifacts are cleaned and preserved.” The two of them make their way into the back room. Dozens of historical objects sit on tables and shelves. Most are waiting their turn while some objects are partway through the restoration process. Copernia excitedly points to some of these artifacts and rambles on about the methods used to preserve them. As part of the tour, she offers Trevor a bottle each of universal solvent and unguent of timelessness. ”Take these items so you can practice the skills I’ve described to you.” She walks over to an upturned antique chair. She squirts a dollop of unguent into to palm of her hand and begins to stroke it onto the chair leg to demonstrate. ”Now remember, when applying ointment to wood, be sure to rub it in with the grain. Go slowly and try to get an even coat over the entire length so that there are no gaps in the preservation.”
There are five items donated by Earl Calhadion Vernisant for the night’s ball. The first two are an elaborate silk fan and a spyglass; both are mundane objects with historical significance. The third item is a journal that belonged to Earl Vernisant’s great grandfather and details his extensive genealogical work to connect their family line to the heroic Arnisant legacy. The fourth item is a buckler of masterwork quality. And the last item is a dagger which is an ornate +1 silver dagger that the earl claims one of General Arnisant’s lieutenants used to slay the vampire Malageur (the dagger has in fact never been used as anything but a letter opener by his outrageously wealthy family).
Event
A swelling of the crowd toward the courtyard gives you some indication that something of note is about to happen. You follow the crowd to find dozens of senators, well-wishers, and hangers-on have begun to gather around the newly arrived Princess Eutropia Stavian, who slipped into the gala unnoticed and unannounced. By the time you arrive, Princess Eutropia has already attracted a large gaggle of several dozen nobles.
Lady Gloriana Morilla loudly clinks her glass and declares 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.
“My friends, colleagues, and assorted enemies, 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.”
“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…”
Eutropia’s speech continues. “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!”
Eutropia’s speech concludes. She hops down from the railing and is suddenly inundated with supporters and critics.
Icabhod is still far too distracted trying to track down the 'helpful person' that he is convinced is not all what they said.
Henrika murmurs to her associates and gestures with her chin, "Do you see that servant over there? They are heading to the apiary, possibly with the intention of doing something to the bees with that alchemical bar they are holding. I do not know what that is, I'm afraid."
Also noticing this strange behaviour, Tychus reactively reaches for his crossbow, which of course is not on his person. His hand lingers in the air before returning to his side.
"Maybe it's the paranoia talking, but I don't like this. Not one bit."
Navia nods to Henrika. "Good catch. I saw it too. I'll go investigate."
Xallis simply offers her a nod before looking back towards the crowd, doing his best to appear unaware of the situation. Though he does glance back at the group and tap the side of his head.
Navia slips through the crowd as nonchalantly as possible, doing her best to tail the suspicious servant.