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The swordsman grins as he steps forward, but that grin quickly turns into a scowl as the cup shatters across his face, cutting and nearly blinding him. Wiping blood away from his face, he steps forward and swings at Olnaris. Dice rolls:
The blade swings forward, cleaving across Olnaris' chest. Just as the blade begins to cut into the fabric, there is a blinding flash of light, and when it fades, only silence, darkness and the smell of cold earth remain.
Combat update will take place tomorrow.
Initiative:
As the chaos and pandemonium increases, a swordsman dressed in black wades through the crowd and begins to cut down senators and nobles around you. The way behind you is blocked, and he turns and begins to press his attack.
As the applause abates, a hulking Ulfen Guard pushes Kalbio forward, almost knocking the commoner down as he awkwardly regains his balance beside Grand Prince Stavian. The leader of Taldor maintains his calm, placing a hand on Kalbio’s shoulder without ever taking his eyes off the crowd. “I understand your parents sacrificed everything to help you reach this day, my boy. Saving up for your apprenticeship and the tools you needed to achieve greatness. And today you are a grateful son, no doubt making them proud. I too understand what it is to sacrifice; I have given so much for the people of this nation: a brother, a son, a lifetime of service. Even my own daughter’s loyalty.” He pauses, licking his lips and pulling the awkward Kalbio closer to his side. “But unlike you, Lord Kalbio, these Taldans—my children, truly—are not grateful. They scheme and plot, dream of hanging their dutiful father and placing a woman—a woman, sir!—on the Lion Throne! And they have seen fit this very day to induct you into their conspiratorial ranks. And that is why here, now, you, Lord Kalbio, will be the first among them to die.” And with that, the Emperor of Taldor plunges a jeweled dagger between the ribs of the astonished man in his clutches. While Stavian’s accusations stun the crowd, Kalbio’s blood showers the front row of the senate floor. Kalbio mouths “Ma...ma...pa...” before he collapses to the stage in a heap. A red-stained Princess Eutropia defiantly stands among the nobility, staring up at her father in disbelief. Casting aside cloaks to reveal armor and blades, the unidentified soldiers in the chamber already begin moving to cut down the attending masses in a wholesale slaughter.
The slowdown in posting has made me concerned that there's no longer interest in the game. That being said, it makes sense that things should slow down around this time of year. It's the holidays, finals are coming/EOY projects are due, not to mention all the extra nonsense that 2020 has heaped upon us. I don't want to ask for a post if it'll be the straw that breaks the camel's back, but I would also like to move the game along. We botted through the remainder of the Gala, but the AP does have some parts for PC interaction during the transition that I was going to stick with. We can keep botting through that or wait a bit until everyone is ready to start posting again. What do you guys think?
Yeah, things get like that around the holidays. It's been while since we've had any posts, is everyone doing ok? I was kind of hoping to get at least a small post from everyone before moving on.
Hey, just wanted to check in and see how everyone was doing and make sure everyone is alright. Highlight of my holiday, my 5-year-old decided he wanted to eat a whole turkey leg by himself. It was very entertaining to watch :)
I apologize for the delay. I had some double checking to do to make sure that everything was in order (I believe it is). We will move on after everyone has posted. The map has been updated. Also, the map for the senate floor grid, those squares are 10 feet apart. You may re-arrange yourselves if you wish, but you're about as close as you can get to the podium. For those of you who celebrate it, I hope you have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. I'll have some more free time this weekend (yay PTO) so I'll check in on the boards a bit more regularly.
The meeting with Lady Lotheed goes quickly and smoothly as everyone recounts their tasks and accomplishments. Lady Lotheed asks a few follow up questions before dismissing you all and promising that there will be a bonus when you receive your payments for this night's work. Following the Grand Prince’s arrival, servants begin to bring out a light supper, placing various expensive cheeses, fruits, pastries, and wines out on tables or carrying platters to offer momentary repast. The food placates the masses left confused by Stavian’s abrupt arrival and sudden disappearance, and soon conversations return to normal as interested parties jockey for positions in food lines to speak with important dignitaries. During dinner, a special bottle of wine is brought out and taken to a particular table, where some gentleman put on great airs over the quality and age of the wine, hinting greatly at how it pains them to part with such a treasure, though it may be for the betterment of all that may taste of it. There is a brief moment of silence as the wine is poured and sampled, followed quickly by retching and spewing in disgust at the foul tasting beverage, as well as sending many words of ill will towards the unfortunate donors. Finally, after dinner, the Taldan senate convenes to vote on various issues while guests watch from the gallery above. The hall spends 30 minutes arguing and voting on formalities and spending bills before reaching the event all of Taldor has been waiting for: whether to abolish the long-standing law of primogeniture. The political ruling body of Taldor spreads out twenty feet below the observation deck of the gallery. Dozens of senators and their immediate aides scurry below. The cacophony of voices is almost deafening, and it seems like the ceaseless chatter will continue endlessly. Suddenly, the magically amplified voice of the senate speaker interrupts the noise. “Thank you all. I would ask that our observers please be silent and seat themselves. We will now begin voting on addendum number twenty-two thousand eighty-seven: the repeal of the ancient law of primogeniture, the issuance of inheritance and aristocratic title solely through male heirs.” Following this proclamation, the speaker begins calling on individual senators one at a time to support or oppose the repeal. Early declarations split evenly between the options, with many senators abstaining entirely, and only halfway through the process do votes begin to favor Princess Eutropia’s bid to end primogeniture. By the end of the tabulations, the repeal passes with roughly 60 percent of the senate’s backing. The speaker takes a moment to compose himself, seemingly shocked by the results, before continuing to formally announce the initial results in a distant monotone. "And so, the final tally for addendum twenty-two thousand eighty-seven, the repeal of primogeniture, with thirty-six abstentions, the final tally stands at one hundred and seven for, seventy-nine against. The addendum passes. Among other business tonight, the senate recognizes Princess Eutropia Stavian I as the new heir to the Primogen Crown, and the first heir the empire has seen in twenty years." With the declaration made, the chamber explodes in a riot of applause and condemnation. It takes several minutes for the cacophony to die down. The speaker declares that a closed senate recount is to take place, an event signaled by the speaker declaring a temporary recess of the senate to outsiders. During this brief recess, Lady Lotheed summons you all to meet her down near the entrance to the senate floor. "I daresay that His Majesty's speech tonight will be one of concession," she says hurriedly, her face flushed with excitement. "This is a momentous occasion, and we're all a part of it, aren't we?" Lady Lotheed thanks you all again for accomplishing your tasks, confirms the promise of a bonus in your payments, and pulls out a small envelope. "This is a message for Kalbio of Breezy Creek," she says, gesturing towards the peasant about to be exalted to lordship. "His parents couldn't afford to come to the ceremony, and have asked that this be delivered on the morrow, after all the pomp and circumstance has worn off. If one of you could take responsibility for this, as one last favor for me, his parents and myself would appreciate it." Any request for payment will be met with an agreement to discuss it after the speech, as the crowd surges, everyone trying to take a place on the senate floor, Lady Lotheed among them. You also find yourself swept up in the tide, and end up in the Senate floor, near the back, right as the doors close. Hundreds of dignitaries, senators, and visitors have crammed
Grand Prince Stavian III ascends to the tall stage that overlooks the hall from its center. He raises a single hand to calm the murmurs of the assembled crowd. A member of the prince’s Ulfen Guard escorts a thrilled-looking man in noble attire—the soon-to-be elevated commoner, Kalbio—to stand several paces behind the prince. “Quite the assembly we have here today,” the Grand Prince says. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the senate building packed so full, especially not for any of my previous speeches. Even my lovely daughter, now a woman, sits among the players of Oppara’s greatest game. Of course, none of you are here for me. No, today is about something else entirely. Today is about elevation. It is no secret that today is about exalting others to a new status in life. “I’m sure many of you have had the opportunity to meet Kalbio here. He is a man of the people, elevated at the urging of all the ladies, lords, senators, and aides present in this chamber. I think we should all give him a rousing applause, to commemorate this momentous change in his life.” The room erupts into cheers as Stavian pauses in his proclamation, smiling widely as he takes in the adulation of the crowd. Sense Motive: DC 20: You notice subtle repositioning movements by armed, black-garbed personnel to block the exits.
Baron Okerra notes the badge you wear and connects the dots between you and your colleagues. "My dear, they had interesting views on certain points of the law. It is always a pleasure to have the opportunity to discuss such things with the rising generation," he booms. Baron Okerra perks up a bit as you begin asking about the tournaments. "The tournament season is always something to look forward to. A good competition is just the thing to shake off the dust and get the blood moving, though, I seem to have lost the figure for it myself. The burdens of age and too much good food, of course, but my trainers make sure I work it off as I can." At your question regarding a favorite weapon, Baron Okerra launches into a story about a favored lance of his that carried him through an entire season of competitions. "Never had a weapon like that before, nor since, and what wood it was made of, no one could tell me. Eventually, I took it into battle, hoping to prove its worth, though it shattered upon the back of a particularly rough troll."
We are getting very near ready to move on to the next chapter, so I will give a moment for other things to be done, and then we'll move on.
Olnaris:
You spot Sir Germande finishing up a rather heated conversation as you approach. The silence created by everyone else looking to watch the Grand Prince only amplifies the aggressive whispers going between Germande and his acquaintance.
"Do you know who I am? Do you know who my father is, you ignorant lout?" "Yes, yes Sir Germande, we all know who your father is, and we are all unfortunately aware of who you are. The High Strategos has accepted your gift, and nothing more, and when he says 'Nothing more,' he means it." The speaker is a secretarial looking man, small and bookish, but clearly capable of speaking back to Germande. "But those were some of the most valuable horses in all of Taldor! Surely you could-" "Do what, Sir Germande? Give place to your rantings about conspiracy? Force my master to subjugate himself to the will of one of his subordinates?" The secretary gathers himself and begins to walk away. "If you hope to salvage this evening, Sir Germande, I recommend you stop making a scene." Everyone Else: Lady Lotheed can be found wandering edges of the courtyard, also keeping herself back from the excitement of the crowd. She beckons to a corner with benches around a small fountain, blocked by some hedges and bushes. Nearby, the little brass cricket appears again, more out of place in the courtyard, surrounded by flowers and shrubbery.
"By all accounts, you have been busy," Lady Lotheed says as you all sit down. "As have many others. I suspect that His Majesty is hiding away at this moment himself to prepare a speech to concede the throne eventually to his daughter, if all that I have heard is true, though we'll have to wait for the senate to vote to know for sure."
So, for a quick update, you all have successfully accomplished all of your tasks, along with several other milestones. There is not much else to accomplish at this Gala besides influencing other individuals. Is there anything specific that you would like to do while at the Gala? There is space for more individual and area influences if you'd like. Olnaris, I will post towards your meeting with Germande shortly.
All of you receive a message from Lady Lotheed in response to the comments that are being sent back and forth. "Status update, 5 minutes, in the courtyard." Those who begin walking towards the courtyard will be interrupted by a disturbance from the Arcade. As you listen, you realize that it is growing silent and the crowd is parting as servants roll a length of red carpet through the Arcade to the entrance to the senate floor. Grand Prince Stavian III has arrived with his Ulfen guard. The crowd moves quickly, all craning to get a glimpse of Taldor's leader who walks briskly along the carpet. As he reaches the senate floor, he enters the Emperor's Hall without a backwards glance, and the doors close behind him.
Larin:
With the assistance of your acquired help, you manage to get close enough to Maxillar to listen to a low conversation between him and large man dressed in a stylish dark suit.
"You know this signal, Merret?" Maxillar asks, impatience on his voice. "Yes, milord. 'Twill be accomplished as the Grand Prince wishes." "Excellent." Maxillar is positively beaming, though the effect this creates is remarkably similar to watching a shark grin. "Tonight, we shall change the world." Kyralina & Izalco: Princess Eutropia smiles at the words you both provide. "My thanks," she offers, nodding to the two of you. "I am happy to have your support, and though I am hopeful as well for our chances, it will come down to the vote to see if we will reap the fruits of our labors."
"You are correct," she adds in response to Kyralina's words. "History has changed due to our efforts, and whether the Senate will allow change to occur, we have at least shown that we can challenge the status quo and raise ourselves to a higher standard. If not tonight, then someday soon the leaders of our fair land will realize, as many of us already have, that the days of our reckless youth are past and it is our duty to carve a better future." These last words are said knowingly, with a nod of acknowledgement again towards Izalco. "I apologize for my abruptness, but I must excuse myself now," Princess Eutropia says, gathering herself and preparing to leave. "My father is expected to speak following the vote, and I must attend to other matters before then. It was delightful to meet with you both."
Due to Izalco & Kyralina's successful influence of Princess Eutropia, everyone may re-roll 1 skill check during the Gala.
Olnaris: "Good, good. Now, listen well, for you, young Valkavian, are still new to this senate. Your face is not yet recognized, nor do I suspect most people will associate you with me for some time if we play our cards right." The Grand Duke looks pleased, and pulls out a small notepad, tearing off a sheet of paper.
"I'm afraid that political power is really not all it's cracked up to be in this day and age...at least, at my age. There's only so much you feel like doing on a given day, and the heady aroma of might is for youth in my opinion." [b]"Here are the names of some associates. Well, associates to be, that is. The study of the arcane arts has lost its way and many prefer to waste the true power that comes from magic in influencing their shortsighted political gambles. Many of the names on this paper are quite bright and talented, and still young in their careers here. Others have children who are talented in the arcane arts, and have yet to employ them to a decent tutor." Avernathus clasps his hands behind his back. "If you would be so kind, I would like to have them as my pupils, along with you. There is much knowledge in this old head, and I feel a need to pass it on to those who can bear the weight of such information."
Cecilia:
Countess Pace leans in close for a conspiratorial whisper. "Frankly my dear, I couldn't care much either way. You'll find it pays to keep in good graces with both sides of the fight. Why, if my sources were to tell me all of a sudden that Vernisant and his cronies were going to be successful in maintaining primogeniture, I'd switch sides at the drop of a hat and change my vote this very evening." Countess Pace gathers herself and begins to walk away. "Bear that in mind, dear, while you have time. History is written by the winners, and you need to be ready to do whatever it takes to be on the winning side."
Kyralina & Izalco: Lady Morilla listens to Kyralina as she speaks of truth and discernment. "That is one of the more archaic philosophies of Taldor, yes. And you are correct, it is not without its merits. Honesty and authenticity lead to truth, which is one of the most valuable treasures in the world." Lady Morilla examines you both for a moment, clearly rethinking her earlier assumptions about Kyralina.
"Come with me, if you would like. I think it would do the both of you well to meet with Her Majesty." Turning without waiting, Lady Morilla begins walking directly across the courtyard to Princess Eutropia.
Everyone, go ahead and post your Round 2 Actions. It looks as though Tabar will be coming back to us shortly, so for now, I will hold of on botting him unless someone specifically requests his aid.
Olnaris:
At the sound of the name 'Valkavian,' the Grand Duke examines you a bit more closely. "I see...the same Valkavians suffering from some curse, if memory serves." Grand Duke Avernathus stands in silence for a moment, pondering. It's evident on his face that he is going back and forth on some options that lie before him, before he makes a decision. "Your current employer," he begins, gesturing towards your senate aide badge. "How much of your loyalty do they command? I could well use a man of your talents to assist in gathering students, but I do not wish to steal you out from under the nose of someone who would prefer to demand your attention." Izalco: Lady Morilla turns to face you, noting with a quick glance that you wear the same badge as Kyralina. "I suppose I could. This young lady, who you are surely familiar with, was just telling me of an artist whose singing is sure to be a beautifying force in our lands. You may also wish to speak with Grand Duke Avernathus if you can garner his attention. A student of his, perhaps, though he seems to be having some difficulty gathering students to his side these days."
Sorry I've been mia for a bit. I work for my county and election week has been a loooong week. No worries!
Olnaris: As you begin spreading rumors, a well-built man in a blue waistcoat comes up and takes you by the shoulder.
"My gods, man, you're doing a fantastic job striking at Vernisant's influence. I haven't been this successful in years, but perhaps that's because my reputation precedes me..." The man sizes you up for a moment. "Perhaps it's that unknown factor. So many people wanting to believe that someone they've never met will have some hidden truth while those they've known for years are ignored. Ah, but where are my manners. Sir Marcian Germande, at your service, and perhaps you'd be willing to assist me in opening a few doors."
Social Round 1 Actions:
Cecilia: Influence Person: Countess Pace (Success)
Izalco: Kyralina: Influence Check: Lady Morilla (Failure) Larin: Complete Task: Spy (Success) Olnaris: Tabar: Larin:
As you inch closer to Maxillar, you get close enough to hear a conversation between him and another noble.
"I'm not quite sure I'm happy with how this vote is likely to turn out, if the rumors I'm hearing are true. What the princess is thinking pursuing this course of action, I can only wonder," the mustachioed gentleman mutters. "Not to worry, Tarren. After tonight, all of Taldor's worries about succession will be laid to rest," Maxillar says, patting the noble on the shoulder in a much more genial matter than he is known for. "Perhaps another drink will help drive those concerns away?" Kyralina:
As you stumble, the drink tips and liquid falls. Thankfully, it splashes harmlessly on a bush and nothing more than your pride is injured.
Lady Morilla frowns a bit as she observes the spill. "Yes, they do catch one unawares at times when one has had a bit more to drink than one should." Cecilia: Countess Pace turns at the sound of your praise. "Oh, dear Cecilia, it's been too long," she croons, giving you an embrace and completely forgetting, or at least, appearing to forget, that this is the first time she's ever spoken to you. "Yes, it is quite the ensemble, isn't it? Just like the wonderful men and women hoping to change Taldor for the better. Such a colorful group, and yet we are all so focused on ending primogeniture and ensuring fairness for all."
Sorry for the radio silence. Stress made it a little difficult to focus. Good news, we're almost through the Gala. I'll get a post up tomorrow and we'll begin finishing this leg of the journey up. I hope everyone had a safe Halloween!
Malphene looks between the three of you, struggling for words as your own hit home. Her face turns beet red and her mouth opens to speak, but no words come out. Finally, she turns and throws a glass across the room, shattering it against the wall. Malphene's entourage looks stunned, not sure quite what they're seeing. "Come on, Trant, he might not be a Zespire," one begins, trailing off weakly at the obvious family resemblance. "Get out," she mutters, still shaking with fury. "What, you want me to leave?" the first goon asks. "No, not you," she clarifies, pointing at the junior senator. "Get out, and stay away from me." "I can assure you, near you is the last place I wish to be," the small man says, gathering himself and hurrying out of the room. Malphene slumps down in the chair, waiting for everyone not in her entourage to leave. At any dawdling, she glares. "This room is still reserved to me, and you were not invited." Just outside the room, the junior senator waits to thank you. "Amadorian Dou," he says, eagerly shaking Izalco's hand and bowing to Cecilia and Kyralina. "I can't tell you how grateful I am to have been rescued from such peril. One can only hope that boorish woman takes your words to heart, dear lady." The senator isn't available to chat for very long, but before leaving, he invites you all to visit him in his office tomorrow morning. "Such heroism deserves to be rewarded, and I believe I have just the thing," he says, before excusing himself.
Since the whole team is going Izalco will go with, at the time I wasnt sure if it was going to be a one person job or a team effort. Good enough rolls could turn it into a one person effort, especially if you wish to avoid bloodshed. You can talk Malphene down, though the DC is high (definitely not out of reach for you guys). But there is also the chance it turns into a brawl, unless you decide to take that option right away.
Malphene turns from the seated junior senator. You can see that the man is flanked on three sides by the young men of Lady Trant's entourage. "Terribly sorry, but we haven't asked for anyone to come and clean up the room, though I can expect we will have spills. Dear, please remember your place and wait until your betters call for you before barging in where you're not welcome." The words are malicious, and a wicked smile forms on the young woman's face before she turns back to the business at hand. "That's a nice dress. Looks like the curtains our gardener hung in his cottage last winter. Did you borrow the fabric?" The young men jeer and join in, tossing out additional disparaging remarks.
Just to check, is there anyone who is not going to go investigate the goings on with Malphene Trant?
Thanks for the heads up! We'll get things moving forward again tomorrow.
Larin, Cecilia, Izalco - Perception DC 12: In the midst of your conversations and interactions, you notice Malphene Trant, who had been pointed out to you by Lady Lotheed.
The towering, broad-shouldered young lady and three aristocratic looking young men wearing peace-bound swords come up and frog march a junior senator away from the Arcade floor, heading straight for the stairs to the Upper Gallery. From there, they go quickly into a large, curtained off room - The Bedlam II Waiting Room. Not much sound emerges from behind the thick material, but anyone in the Upper Gallery can make out muffled yells.
Social Round 4 Actions:
Cecilia: Complete Task - Spy (Failure)
Izalco: Discovery Check - Countess Pace (Failure) Kyralina: Influence Person - Lady Morilla (Failure) Larin: Complete Task - Spy (Success) Olnaris: Tabar: Influence Person - Lady Morilla (Success)
Tabar continues to spend his time in the courtyard. While he does talk up a storm, and continues to hold lively conversations with many interested individuals, the attitude of the courtyard doesn't change dramatically. Larin:
As you watch, the High Strategos takes some time and steps aside after looking around, making sure no one is watching. This is strange, and doesn't quite fit what you know of such a blunt man's behaviors. By all accounts, at events such as this, Maxillar just stands around ominously, glaring at anyone who tries to come and talk to him.
Still, you watch as he steps off to the side, behind a display, while a servant walks past holding a tray with a single glass. The servant whispers something you can't quite catch, and you move just a shade closer, straining against the noises of the party. "After the vote as planned then?" Maxillar is speaking to the servant, whose face is now obscured. You don't hear a response, but as Maxillar leaves the conversation, you can see that he has a very self-satisfied look on his face. Kyralina & Tabar:
Lady Morilla gives you a bit of a thousand yard stare before blinking her eyes and focusing on you again. "I'm quite sorry my dear, what was the question again? Plays?" She takes a sip of her drink and ponders the question for an uncomfortably long time. "I must say I prefer the wit and wisdom of the Rhapsodic College. There is enough drama that occurs within these walls to last a body several lifetimes." Lady Morilla doesn't really respond with much to go on, letting the conversation drop rather rapidly. Izalco:
Countess Pace turns to greet you and smiles rather broadly. "Oh my dear, you do flatter. Please continue, as it will get you everything." The Countess lets of a little titter as she takes another sip of her drink, the massive beehive of hair on her head wobbling as she laughs. "As for a tailor, I import the best of everything. Materials and work. This," she says, gesturing to her dress, "was made with the finest Tian Xian silk, crafted specially by my own private tailor, specifically to highlight my beauty." Cecilia: You are able to move quietly and carefully through the crowd. You pick a different position from Larin, but when you see the High Strategos move, you find your way to follow him blocked by mass of party-goers examining a particular display.
Every NPC has multiple influence skills so it's possible to get more influence skills for each NPC. Kalbio doesn't actually have any influence skills. He'll respond to pretty much anyone that talks to him.
So far, only Kyralina and Cecilia have requested influence skills for NPCs. Everyone is allowed to request to know one for one NPC. Let me know which ones you would like to know. I'll update and get things ready to move along tomorrow morning.
Influence Skills for Gloriana Morilla and Countess Pace have been updated on the tracking sheet. Knowledge (Nobility) and Diplomacy, respectively
Just a reminder for people to let me know which NPC they would like to know an Influence skill from.
Social Round 3 Actions:
Cecilia: Assisting Larin's Task (Failure)
Izalco: Assisting Larin's Task (Failure) Kyralina: Kyralina: Influence Person (Lady Morilla) Larin: Complete Task (Failure) Olnaris: Task (Spreading Rumors) - 1 success Tabar:
Tabar stops in the courtyards on his way to the Arcade to assist in spying on the High Strategos, engaging in some follow-up conversation regarding local cuisine. Many are impressed by his knowledge and acknowledge his association with your party.
Izalco & Larin:
You both make efforts to get close enough to the High Strategos without being noticed, but it is clear that despite your best efforts, you are both visible in your respected areas.
Izalco (Round 2):
Many voices join in, trying to remember the name of the bakery as well, and soon a lively conversation begins about where to find the best foods across Taldor. Lady Morilla and even Princess Eutropia join in the conversation, both looking over to you for your opinions and recommendations. Many who are nearby or participating in the conversation take note of your badge. You hear some comments about you and your company in the background - far from gossip, if anything, they are noticing you and your companions as interesting and entertaining conversationalists! Social Round 3 Actions:
Cecilia: Assisting Larin's Task (Failure)
Izalco: Kyralina: Influence Person (Lady Morilla) Larin: Olnaris: Task (Spreading Rumors) - 1 success Tabar: Cecilia:
The hustle and bustle of the Arcade of Triumphs makes it a little bit difficult to sneak around. Many of the guests are starting to get tipsy, and you are jostled regularly between them and still arriving guests hoping to make their splash in Taldan politics. Olnaris:
Grand Duke Avernathus listens carefully as you speak, describing Senator Trant's apparent weakness to being pulled along by his daughter.
"A man such as that has no business in the Senate," the Grand Duke huffs. "I can promise you that any move he attempts to make will be blocked. My influence may not be as large as some, but it is still there and can still be used." Kyralina: Lady Morilla looks surprised at your query, but responds kindly. "My dear, I'm afraid I have no such plans at this time, though I do enjoy witnessing such spectacles myself. Perhaps we will be lucky enough this evening to witness such a demonstration."
Today was not my day. I will update tomorrow. Go ahead and make round 3 actions
Work.
Today is going to be a bit busy for me, I'll try and have a post up tonight.
Social Round 2 Actions:
Cecilia: Influence Person (Duke Centimus)
Izalco: Kyralina:Discovery Check (Weakness - Countess Pace) Larin: Task (Spy) Olnaris: Influence Person (Grand Duke Avernathus) Tabar: Influence Person (Baron Okerra)
Larin:
You are able to easily blend in with the shadows at this time. All wandering eyes have moved from you to other conversations and points of interest, but unfortunately the sway of the crowd blocks the High Strategos from your view, preventing you from being able to see him or any of his actions. Kyralina:
The Countess looks you over with surprise as you come forth and speak to her. "Ah, but my dear, this battle is a fight against the crumbling old traditions of yesterday in favor of a modern approach. When the new spring fashions become available, do you not rush to purge your closet of old, outdated clothes that you may gain the benefits of the new? Or do you prefer to wallow in mothballs and hand-me-downs?" The Countess takes a sip of her drink before continuing. "As for myself, I prefer the new, the bold. Be daring, and set the trends, so that others may follow you where they will."
The Countess gives a little twirl, gesturing to her attire. "Take myself, for example. Do you see anyone here dressed as boldly and fashionably as myself?" The massive amounts of jewelry clink together as she spins. "They are now," she continues, without waiting for a response, "Because they lack my penchant for adventure and blazing new trails, and well you should be too, Lady...I'm not sure I caught your name."
Cecilia:
"I believe that would be idea of 'groupthink,'" Duke Centimus grumbles. "Most senators follow the crowd or tradition, though the two are most often one and the same in these walls." Duke Centimus gestures to his wheelchair. "Take me, for example. Since my accident, I have had more time to focus on my studies and on improving and protecting the properties and people in my care, yet no one in this room gives a flying biscuit about any of it. In there eyes, I am but a lonely cripple they seek to avoid or make a mockery of behind my back."
Duke Centimus sighs a bit before pulling out a book. "Here, take this," he says, handing it over to you. The cover is worn leather with gold letters reading 'On Government.' "Most senators would hate to see this book around, so be careful where you read it," he adds, "One of the greatest failings of our system is that it allows only those deemed 'worthy' of any sort of rule, whether that be over personal property, provinces, or the land as a whole. They have tried to unseat me several times, to no avail, simply because of my inability to walk, but if we can end primogeniture, then we prove that anyone, no matter who they are or what physical condition they may be in, can hold power." Olnaris:
The Grand Duke puts the tome he had been reading back on the shelf carefully before turning to look at you. "It takes a great deal of humility to recognize one's weaknesses and even more to seek assistance with them." The old man glances at the shelves, pondering for a moment.
"Perhaps I too am in need of change, and could benefit from engaging a bit more in the political world, though teaching is my true passion." The old man speaks quietly, almost to himself as he turns back to you. "And perhaps we are in a position to benefit each other. Would you consider being an agent on my behalf in the Senate?"
Will do, and thank you for the update! Good luck in finding a home for you and your family, it is expensive out there (shoot, it's expensive everywhere). For now, Tabar will be focused on completing his task unless someone wishes to have him accompany them.
Tabar mingles in the crowd around Baron Okerra for a bit of time. After a short while, he relays to everyone some suggested subjects, primarily focused on local concerns, that will assist in influencing the Baron.
Larin:
As you watch Malphene try and process what you have said and figure out how you came out on top of this conversation (you suspect she may be a bit tipsy), she decides the best thing to do is pretend you don't exist, and thereby erases you from her world. It really is quite an amazing feat, and she and her troupe stalk off towards the garden.
Social Round 1 Actions: No changes Cecilia:
"That is correct," Duke Centimus responds, maneuvering his chair to a different position in front of the bookshelf. "I believe you can find a copy of his journals somewhere, or at least an abridgement...as far as removing the piece, the easiest way is to do so as part of your functions as an aide or Senator. A privilege of exclusivity, I suppose," the Duke mumbles.
"Of course, being self-taught is one of the best ways to learn," the Duke adds. "There are many in the Senate who could stand a little learning on their own, though if they recognized it than we wouldn't be in the predicament we are in today, would we?" Larin:
"Trump?" Lady Trant curls her lip in a sneer as she spits the name out, clearly not happy about the mispronunciation. "Like the sound a little bird makes when it flies into a window?" Though her eyes are shooting daggers at you, she appears a bit more cautious at the mention of your uncle.
At your comment about jesters, Malphene opens her mouth as if to speak, then stops, unsure of whether or not she is being insulted or not. Her mouth opens and closes for a second, clearly caught off guard a little bit before she composes herself. "Well, I'm grateful that we have someone like you here to remind us, Lady Zespire. Perhaps with your knowledge, you would be interested in assisting me with my horses? We could use another stable hand."
Social Round 1 Actions:
Cecilia: Influence Person (Duke Centimus) - Success
Izalco: Influence Area (Imperial Archives) - Tier 1 reached Kyralina: Influence Area (Gallery) - Tier 1 reached Larin: Complete Task (Spy) - Failure Olnaris: Tabar: Larin:
Based on the description Lady Lotheed provided you and the senate badge this young lady is wearing, you can surmise she is Lady Malphene Trant.
"Oh, horses, milady," Lady Trant responds, imitating your tone in a whiny voice. "Yes, I suppose that would make sense. I didn't realize they let sweepers into such an event, but at any rate, the sights and smells must be much better than you're used to." Lady Trant has stopped on her route through the Arcade and is now giving you her attention. A little ways across the room, the High Strategos has turned a bit, giving an ear to the conversation, though you get the idea that a few others are also listening in, wanting to see how this turns out. Kyralina:
Much attention is given to you as you give your performance. Even the children who had previously been focused on the clowns turn to watch, and there is no little amount of applause as you finish, the clowns themselves recognizing talent (and being out of the buckets of glitter that were used for their entrance). Indeed, even Countess Pace paused in her conversation to turn and observe you. You're not sure if the look is one of appreciation or frustration that her current companion is now focused on you.
As you finish, an older lord hands you a glass of wine and offers his appreciation before turning back to his own conversation.
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