Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Behind the Screen:
Beatrice Bluff:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24
To Raphael:
“Made at the society by gods know who.” He slips one of the rings around his finger. “Short of Ernest or the archmage, nobody should know that I have a pair, or be able to without a warrant.” He grabs the two agreements and the long list of stipulations, clauses and arrangements to ensure the nature of the deal remains hidden by both parties. He removes all other pieces of paper atop his desk, placing them on his chair, and sprawls out all the documents in the center of the desk's surface. “I don’t recall offering wine, but this is a day to celebrate.” Emile smiles, moving his finger as though something would be different. His eyes gleam. He holds out his hands, awaiting yours.
“I, Emile de Beaux, in sound health and mind, agree upon the terms and conditions laid upon this table, and will provide my services willingly. Let us take this country by storm, friend?”
As long as the magic is consensual, enchantment magic is legal. If the law changes, they would need to be given to the state. You now have Emile de Beaux as an official contact, and the two of you are under compulsion to your agreement so long as you keep renewing your weekly pact (free action). The two of you have a +10 bonus on Sense Motive checks towards each other. You may have an additional intersession action to reflect the last week you've had with him.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
For Raphael:
Emile again inspects his hand. He gives a quick circle of his fingers, one by one in rapid succession. ”I don’t usually wear rings for my partnerships, so it isn’t a problem I’ve ran into before. I’d prefer not to drain either of our to-be empires with cost of potions or means to hide auras. You could always lie, or obfuscate its purpose as something else.” Emile shrugs. "I think it to be the best and worst option. At the very least, they are rather pretty."
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
For Raph:
“You’ll hear all about them. I had to clean the office to take inventory.” He opens a drawer, almost as if he forgot to check something. “Nothing missing. I can get into the mind of thieves, greed makes circumstances simple to comprehend, but a snoop can have any motive...” He trails off. He doesn’t appear too worried.
Emile looks to what you wrote, and puts the two papers together with a wide grin. “Lovely, absolutely, lovely.” He places the paper by the contract, rings and potions. “I do agree, Raphael. How shall we bind this?” He looks to the three devices. “Geases, even lesser ones, aren’t to be trifled with. I’d understand wariness if you had any. Pact parchment is more, let’s say, forgiving when it comes to breaking your word. Contract rings,” Emile begins, looking towards his ringless hands, “a bit more flexible. With regular dates, we could keep things more open ended, change our terms more easily. The bond of the rings would help us understand each other better as well.” He slides everything across the table. “Your pick, friend.”
With your addition, the agreement seems fair and binding. Both parties now have an “out” for the contract, either upon legal service for Emile, or perceived harm or damages to either party. It seems that you are getting the better deal at the moment. Should your reputation grow in years time, however, your name may prove more valuable than Emile's favors, and as is, you could only exit the agreement if you believe to be brought harm from your interactions with him.
Gill/Seth:
”And if I had my way, Doctor, he’d never leave my manor. A fighter who is popular with the noble crowd is hard to come by.” Evelynn sneers. “Watch out, Eve, maybe the Varianna’s will have your family out of business.” Emile grins at her, and the two of them both begin to laugh. They seem to have some history.
Emile rises back to the wall, looking to it with a sense of admiration, perhaps, pride. “Let me tell you a story. Five hundred years ago, my ancestor made the prediction of the coming of the Heroes of Roland. Her words inspired the first and only Durendale King on his quest to find the men and women that would free this city from the shackles of a great, black dragon. Their story is that of legend now. The tales of these heroes is now more myth than truth, you know, I can show you the original scroll and the fallacies this nation has created these last five hundred years.” Emile turns back to Raphael, smiling once more. He scratches at the bandage on his hand as he continues. “Olympe, the first de Beaux oracle. We pretend we weren’t peasants before her.”
“My family has been riding the coattails on her prediction for more than twenty generations. Oracle after oracle, my family would always tie it back to our soothsaying foremother. We were great for our relation to her. We were trusted as we had a hand in this nation’s founding. We had heritage, we had power, but more importantly, we had a name. For generations, my family put everything in their oracles. Slowly, our name crumbled. We never had a second Olympe, but everyone on my ancestors tried to replicate her greatness. In a way, I suppose it is the curse of the Oracle. My mother and father’s dying words were for me to protect Caroline, that she was the last hope for the de Beaux name. I was seventeen, Caroline wasn’t yet one.”
“There is nothing more powerful than a name. The fact my family has survived this long is proof of that. But the de Beaux name now conjures other thoughts. Young boys hear de Beaux and they imagine Beatrice like she is the noble circle’s plaything. Anyone in the Society hears my name and thinks of Caroline, seeking only to have their name associated with hers. I’m sure you’ve heard whispers of what others think of me.”Emile touches the wall, and beckons Raphael closer to inspect it. “I don’t share this with others. You can tell as I can speak openly about it. I can’t do that for any of my, hm, arrangements. I think only around eight people have seen it all. Close friends and family, you and someone who picked the lock on the door the night of the party. Someone skilled, they disabled the alarms and safeguards I have in the room. But finding them is my project, not yours.”
“So Raphael, I offer you this in exchange for your name: anyone. You’ll have an in to anywhere. You’ll have a friend, who always knows the friends you’re looking for, and the disclosure, and let’s say compulsion, to keep quiet on it. If you need a friends, they’ll line up on your doorstep. If you need something you can’t get, I’ll offer you the name of someone who can."
He takes out a blank piece of paper and a small quill. He dips it into ink and begins to write. "We’ll need to keep the fine print, I am sure you understand, but we can agree to something fair.”
“I, Emile de Beaux, under no compulsion and a sound
state of mind, promise the following to Raphael Montefiore
in exchange for their name, and only their name, until matters of
their legal service be required. Firstly, I will provide person or
persons requested to the best of my abilities in a prompt manner
satisfactory to both parties. Secondly, I will provide information on
person or persons to the best of my abilities in a prompt manner
satisfactory to both parties. Thirdly, if my above two services do
not satisfy the expectations of Raphael Montefiore, I will seek to
acquire connections to or knowledge of the individual in question,
to the best of my abilities in a prompt manner satisfactory to both
parties. Should I, Emile de Beaux, believe to be brought harm (be
it physical, mental, reputational) through any of the above requested
actions, I am able to decline the request and future requests of
Raphael Montefiore and negotiate further terms for this contract’s
fulfillment.”
Emile looks at the piece of paper. “How does this look, Raphael? The nitties-gritties will be covered in the Pact. Non disclosures, promises to not bring harm to each other through action or inaction, never mentioning this pact, my other pacts, or the nature of this room. Regular affairs, you know.”
Emile seems to genuinely be seeking a partnership of sorts. Some of the legal writing does seem a bit off, formal, but not quite what you would see from another law office. Some of the wording seems to present loopholes, and you aren’t sure if it is intentional. As written, the contract expires the moment Emile asks for legal services. In addition, if Emile believes that he could be harmed for doing something, it would effectively cancel his end of the contract. Lastly, the liberal use of “to the best of my abilities in a prompt manner satisfactory to both parties” does catch your eye. It might be there as to limit compulsion or allow him to refuse if another contract of his says otherwise.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Gill/Seth:
As Gill checks her patients, Emile hovers around. He always speaks with a smile. “You two should think about fighting again at the Coliseum. My attention is hard to get, and you two had it!” “Are they quite alright, doctor? Are you checking for splinters? They’d be rather nasty, I am certain.” “This was fun, we need fights here more often! I should just set up a gladiator pit in my cellar, charge for a private show!” Emile giggles to himself. He seems to enjoy the company.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Gill/Seth:
Emile’s smile briefly wavers when Gill mentions the murder. His voice drops slightly, no longer bright and cheery, but perhaps more fitting for the subject. “Oh, yes, Miss Bolton. A tragedy...” Emile watches another exchange of strikes between the combatants. “Blood stained floors and dead bodies. So long as I encounter neither, I find most things rather fun. But as a doctor, I suppose you may encounter those more often than I do. Did Seth tell you of the murder, or did you do the honor of researching my name before attending?” He smiles widely at the dwarf, eager for her answer, but gives his attention back to the fight.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
For Raphael:
Emile makes a fading grin when asked to explain his motives. “Lawyer’s aren’t hard to come by, friend. And there are grander, not necessarily better, ones I could befriend. And your friends, again talented, but none beside Halcyon have uses for me. I wanted you to feel welcome, comfortable even in my home, and murder aside, I hope you felt as such. It took time to find your acquaintances.” Emile takes a seat back behind his desk. “Look at our similarities. Young, overseeing family businesses that have seen better days, men who revolve around legal contracts and games of formality. But most importantly, the two of us share ambition. I see it in you. You wouldn’t be here otherwise.”
The host pushes the rings, the scrolls, and the potions towards the lawyer. “These are for promises. Contract Rings. Pact Parchment. Geas potions. These are the tools to my trade.” The paper has a lengthy agreement, terms and conditions for a pact. Swears to secrecy, loyalty, mutual relationships. The text is small, and the numerous terms are daunting, even to a lawyer. “My staff won’t be questioned. I have contracts to people sworn to stop such activity. My back is covered by thousands of stipulations across dozens of pacts, and I provide services to each of my sworn colleagues. So I won’t need your help with them.”
“You are rising up the ladder, Raphael. Your name is already a growing whisper in this city. I don’t want you to pursue those that break my contracts, rather, I want you to be my Gargoyle. Looming above, intimidating but silent, imposing but unmoving. I want to merely speak your name and leave those who sign with me afraid to break their arrangement. Of course, there will be times I ask you to act as a lawyer for me, but largely I seek your name, Raphael.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
To Gill/Seth:
”No fun for the poor, black lotus. I don’t believe it was mishandled though, I think it was handled very, very well. Still, a party favor I never had before. Are you all business, Doctor, or do you like fun as well?” Emile smiles at Gill as Seth took a defensive pose. “Oh, here we go!” Seth parries the first strike, though is quickly toppled by a second swing. Evelynn gets the initial strike with a third attack on her falling target. "Maybe we won't be able to finish the conversation before the fight ends."
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Gill/Seth:
Emile speaks quietly, allowing the warriors to converse. "To the point. Durants never fail to impress me. You ever see Seth fight before? I’ve been waiting a bit for this. I wanted to fish out a challenger for him on New Year’s before my plans were interrupted. Black Lotus extract does wonders for ruining a good time.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Gill/Seth:
”Well, perhaps today won’t be one of day drinking. I’ll expect to see what you look like at some point, mademoiselle.” Emile looks to his arena. “Oh, this? This was something simple. If I had more time I would have reserved part of the park for your little bout.” Emile looks to his sheathed weapon now, “Flaunt, always, but join you? Heavens, no, I just wanted to fit the part. I’m a social chameleon, Seth, half my job is looking a certain way each day. If I had the outfit for it, I’d have made a cute doctor, I’m sure.” Emile looks to the doctor and laughs to himself, maybe at the thought of himself dressed like Gill. He ceases his giggling when someone opens the front door.
A servant walks in, trailed by a large woman. She has short hair, partially pulled back in a small ponytail, though most of the strands are parted by her face. She stands tall, maybe six feet or so, and is built muscular, apparent even through her blouse. She has the same dark eyes as her brother, but doesn’t carry the same charming qualities that Vincent exhibits. She wears none of the heavy armor she is made famous for. Emile begins to grin widely as he walks to her. “Ladies and gentlemen, the arena’s armored sweetheart, Roland’s very own-”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
To Gill/Seth:
On an Oathday afternoon, the two of you arrive at Emile’s residence, Gill alone but Seth brings two mercenaries. Amandina Deschampes sits on horseback, somewhat armored in chainmail and patchworks of plate armor. Prosper Fenandez walks on his feet, struggling to keep up with the horses and his large amount of gear and armor. He sticks his chest out when he walks, trying to appear prideful despite his condition. Seth was getting used to the rather luxurious manor, but Gill had yet to see the place. Two servants take their belongings, though leave the mercenaries’ weapons and the doctor’s medical supplies on their person.
The front foyer has been turned into a battlefield. A forty foot diameter stage has been set up with wooden planks, and the inside of the arena is covered in straw. It stretches across most of the floor. “In case of blood. I don’t want all my floors ruined.” On the second floor, overlooking the arena and leaning on the railing, is Emile de Beaux. His medium length, curly hair is pulled back with a headband, and he wears leather armor and a fencing sword. “Lovely to meet you, Mademoiselle Sanz. My home is yours, is there anything I can fetch you?” The host begins to walk down the stairs. “Tea? Coffee? It is early, but I won’t judge if you say beer or something exotic. I'll actually appreciate it, as then I won't feel guilty drinking alone.” Emile nods to Seth with a grin. He approaches Gill. “Emile de Beaux. It’s my pleasure. Evelynn will be here shortly.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
To Raphael:
Phistophilus, The Contract Devil: Part I, been looking forward to this for months.
After being escorted through the home, past the the vestibule and through the no-longer-blood-covered floors of the ballroom, the servant gestures towards the smoke Lounge. Emile is dressed more casually than the last time you saw him, wearing a flowery shirt under a large coat to combat against the cold that intrudes his home. One of his hands wears light bandages around it.
Emile looks ecstatic to see you, rising to his feet, leaving the pipe on the table. “I was afraid you swindled me of a wonderful vintage. Welcome once again, my friend. Come, come, there is something I must show you.” Emile makes way towards the stairs, putting his hand to the railing. “I only conduct business in the office, I’m sure you understand.”
Emile heads to the second floor lounge room, cutting south to the Legacy Room and opens the door to his office. The room is significantly cleaner than the last time you saw it. Papers have been sorted into neat stacks, nothing litters the floor, the desks’ surfaces can be seen. The maps on the wall still hold hundreds of pins, all connected by colourful strings. You aren’t quite sure if there are any more than you saw previously.
Emile takes off his coat, places a chair for you to sit by a large, centered table. When he sits, his smile fades. He opens a drawer at his side, taking out a long parchment, two potions and two identical rings (all magical). He rises from his chair, walking towards a map of Roland. “Why do you suppose I invited you to my party?” He looks to a mark on the map, specifically, your residence. He traces his finger on several strings. They connect to various locations you recognize: Both Estelles’ homes, Seth’s mercenary company, Halcyon’s consulting services, Marcus’ bar, Valentina’s manor, among others. “And your friends for that matter. Let us be honest while we aren’t compelled to do so.” He turns back to you, passing a hand through his hair as he curls a grin once more, “I’ll forgive anything slanderous, should you be thinking it.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
To Seth:
"Well, I doubt she'll come armored, so her gimmick won't be present." Emile glows when you mention a friend. “A doctor? It is unconventional, but a friend of yours should be a friend of mine...” Emile grins, swirling his wine. “Then it is agreed. You know I’m fond of sending letters to strangers, but perhaps you should do the invitation this time. I had to toss out my stationary as it brought such ruin to my home.” An lightly armored man enters the room from the kitchen, holding two short-swords. ”AH!” Emile begins, putting his glass to the floor. “I suppose it is back to training. Abigal was a bit of a, uh, wake up call let’s say. Maybe with a bit of practice I’ll be joining you and Evelynn.” Emile laughs loudly, making his way to grab his sword. “Come anytime, Seth.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile spots Raphael, and hastily makes his way towards a nearby chair. From it he take a bottle of wine, placed earlier in the night by Raphael. He scurries back to Raphael and Estelle. “Departing I take it? It’d be a sin to leave this here.” Emile gives Raphael the bottle of wine, the second time he has done so this evening. His mouths shapes into a smile, his teeth appearing as a thin crescent behind his parted lips. “You are always welcome, friend. Come again, won’t you? My home offers more than just wine cellars and smoke lounges. I’m sure there is some room here that will interest you.” Emile shakes Raphael's hand firmly.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile smiles as he rises from his chair. He walks to the guests. “You could always be there for them, live the stories instead of listening to them.” The host still looks a bit drained as he walks. His voice betrays him, not quite as chipper or bright as it was earlier this evening/ He steps past Estelle, unaware to her earlier words of him.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“And pray the historians cast us in a favorable light. Pray the texts will remember the saviors and protectors of tonight and not dwell solely on the devils that hide in this city's shadows.”
Emile watches the door open once more to the kitchen. Neither Asfal nor Helmuth looks happy or pleased. The host breathes a sigh of relief.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile winces slightly on the mention of geases. He opens his mouth to retort, but closes it, finding not a thought on the subject that he would like to discuss. He shifts his weight from foot to foot, gives a quick run of his hand over his scalp, and lurches over to grab a nearby chair. He forms words as he sits.
“Well, free or not, Eduard’s predicament brings up another subject.” His words are hushed now, clear to be only heard by the four of them. “Galatian justice,” he begins. “As the sun sets on this day and as tomorrow’s rises, who will our Galatian neighbors seek to tribulate? Short of the civil war, this may be the darkest day of Galatian history.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile is solemn as he watches the scene between Asfal and Halcyon unfold. He appears irked, arms crossed, restraining himself from interfering. He bites his tongue, returning to the conversation. “Eduard loved her you know.” He lets the statement hang in the air. He trails the lull without any tone or emotion. “It wasn’t returned, of course.” Another pause. “But it is clear, no? Those who’ve known love must see it.” Estelle nods, perhaps seeing it too, perhaps just an acknowledging kindness.
“I don’t know much on holy warriors, but if the man lost a friend, a love and a life in a single moment this evening... If Eduard does not crack, he is unbreakable.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“I am not sure if many men in his position would be.” Emile looks at the man, still only with Alexander, still silent. “I think Abigal is the only one he knew here. Now he is surrounded by strangers thinking that one of them killed her. Were I him and not know all I do on all my guests, I am sure I'd be a wreck, a disaster really...”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile unbuttons his top-most button. The room is growing warm with all of the guests and servants. He rolls up his sleeves, revealing a small bracelet. The searching party makes their rounds as Emile begins to speak. Darius is quick to volunteer to be searched first. Darius asks if it is going to be a full body search, and seems disappointed in the response by the magical duo.
“Gods, what a night. How was the little meeting, Seth? Discuss things you can’t mention in common company? You know, I think it might be rude to hold secrets in another’s home.” He smiles, untucking his shirt. “Or at least I’ve heard. You hear a lot as a host.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“And perhaps you never will. It is a host’s duty to send away unruly guests.” Emile winks. “Careful of the cold, Darius. You aren’t layering well this evening and it is a tad nippy.” Darius remarks with a quick “you’re no fun” and drops his flirtatious game, if only for a moment.
"I am not going to indulge you in this again. You do this every time I see you." Darius chuckles to himself, almost giggling. He plays with his hair as he listens to the two women talk.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile bids farewell to Valentina. “I am glad this evening hasn’t dragged my character into the mud with it. We’ll be in touch, I assure you. He smiles faintly before he walks to his coat on the floor, picking it up and properly folding on the staircase railing. He breathes in deeply, collecting himself as he watches the group walk north, following the lead of Helmuth. He observes each of them carefully.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile seems disgusted. “Really? Abigal is dead. There is nothing romantic about poison or murder.” Darius almost interrupts, possibly with some thought to the contrary. “Gods, no wonder that your sist-” He stops, eyes looking towards the entrance of the house. “Ah, my hostly duties call. A moment.” Emile walks to the pair of armored guests arriving at the entrance. They seem to be speaking to Vincent.
Vincent points up to the second floor overlook, and they direct their attention above. Before Emile makes contact, a shout pierces the room.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Agatha departs with a smile. She saunters to greet Asfal.
Valentina addresses Emile and he rolls his eyes, smiling. “I am afraid I was never too fond of those types of novels. Too slow, I find myself peeking at the last pages. And now I am living in such a tale, and yet to find a means to skip to the end of it all." Emile takes off his coat, tossing it to the staircase railing. It slides off the rail to the floor.
Darius taps his foot, giving a kind smile to Valentina. “Ah, I forgot my role as host. Valentina, this is Darius Agnes. Darius, Valentina Silverstone.” A small “damnit” chimes in the distance. It seems Agatha had Valentina’s name spoiled for her.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile smiles. It seems he has returned to how he normally acts. Ludovic places the last bottle of wine onto the counter. “My lips shall be sealed. I will return to being a charming host once more. Though I should check on Beatrice. Family comes first, Raphael, I am sure you understand.”
Emile turns to face Seth now. “If value were measured in oaths and promises, my very blood would run with gold.” Emile chuckles to himself. "Any degree of assistance is appreciated, Seth."
He turns to the human servant. “Oh, Ludovic, we should bring those to the foyer. Have the Oracle scan them for poison? If they are fine, I’ll treat you and the other staff to a glass.” Ludovic sighs and breathes out a small curse. He begins placing the wines back into the crate from the counter. Emile’s lips curl into a small smile.
“Muro, Morgan, Sacha. Let us go to the foyer.” The three quickly bow to Emile as he walks past them. He looks to the door, gesturing them with a beckoning wave to follow. He opens it for them, and they exit. Emile holds the door for a moment. “Again, you two, thank you.” He enters the foyer.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Another rises from the cellar. It is Emile. He rises quickly, with a smile stretched across his face. “More guests for the party, no? And worry not Seth, I know exactly what you are thinking.” His grin persists. “‘How will our handsome devil get himself out of this one?’" He laughs lightly, but the purple tiefling Sacha appears confused, almost bewildered. “No, Sacha, its an expression. I meant me. I’m the handsome devil.” The purple man still seems confused, but shrugs. A frail smile appears on Morgan’s face, but it melts to a worried frown once more. Emile seems to have noticed however, and seems joyed by it.
Mur the ratfolk asks Ludovic for some of his tobacco, to which Ludovic refuses. Mur begins to scan over the kitchen for something to gnaw on.
Raphael rises from the cellar now. Emile smiles as he gets on the same level. “SO! I imagine Helmuth won’t be too pleased about this for several reasons. Seth, perhaps it isn’t my place to ask, but can you ensure the safety of these fair three servants? I gave them my word I would protect them. This party affair may tarnish my name, and perhaps my business, but I will allow nothing to tarnish my word.” He gives a small grin to his servants, followed by one to Raphael.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
For Raphael:
You detect that there seems to be some sort of enchanted effect working on Emile. It almost seems like something is making him act a certain way, or causing him to be indecisiveness.
"I mean, I could… Perhaps doing so… Though if they are at some risk… But..." Emile taps his foot as he thinks. He appears tense, conflicted. Something is off. He addresses his servants. “I am not quite sure what I am able to do here. It seems either actions could be damning, though I am not sure which one more so.”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“I have many a lawyer Raphael, but not one quite like you. As for your council I believe I have something for it. Ludovic, the ‘52 Nazaire Barolo should be in your aisle, third row down.” Ludovic confirms and you can hear him place the crate of wines he has gathered on the floor. The tiefling begin to whisper to themselves, but Emile shooting them a quick glance that cuts them to silence.
Emile smiles, the candlelight dancing across his face. "You’ll all be fine, I promised didn’t I? " He turns back to Raphael. “I’m not hiding them from the Guard, merely from Helmuth and his hunt that has so quickly developed. Abigal was still breathing when Valentina and Halcyon began searching for a culprit. If two tieflings and a ratfolk were to be upstairs, they would be the first swallowed by this inquisition. You were with Estelle earlier, wouldn’t you think she would agree?”
Ludovic comes back to the aisle crate in hand. Around a dozen or so wines are snug within it, with a single bottle lying on top the others. Emile grabs it looking over the label. “I thank you for your advise, but for now they will remain down here. I told these three I would look over them, and I will take the consequences that arise because of it. I am one to my word, Raphael.” He grips the bottle by the neck, holding it out for Raphael to take. “Are you?”
[spoiler=For Raphael]Influence change to "Helpful" on accepting the wine.
Emile walks over as Raphael flings coins into the darkness. The first thrown coin bounces off the wall, rolling back past Raphael towards Emile on the rebound. A smile comes to his face. “Hah, not what I was expecting. What ever are you doing Raphael? Paying my wines a sort of tribu-” He is cut off by a sound in the shadows after the second coin is thrown. A sharp shout it seems, followed by quiet, hushed shushing. The coin jingles as it assumable spins in the darkness. A third coin hits something, though its impact is muffled. It falls to the floor like the other.
Emile stands beside Raphael now. He hands him his dagger, no longer smiling. “Well, perhaps we can have a chat. Sacha, Morgan. Either of you can drop it now, he knows you’re there.”
The darkness recedes. A candle flickers back to life at the end of the aisle and reveals three servants. They appear frightened, quite literally backed into the wall. While the lighting is dim, it is clear that they aren’t human. They all dress in white, all servants it appears. Huddled together are a pair of tiefling. The first is a young woman. She has small horns protruding from her head, highlighted from the fact that she has no hair. Her skin is a soft shade of maroon. The second is a tall man shaded a most curious hue of purple. His hands are long, and his fingers nearly reach the floor. He seems to have a small welt on his cheek.
The third servant appears to be a ratfolk. Small compared to the other two, his tail wraps around his stomach like a tight sash. He wears gloves, and a small hat upon his head.
“You should be quite proud of this small accomplishment, Monsieur Montefiore. Though I suppose only a man of Abadar would find such a use for coins.” His voice is not sing-songy, not cheerful. It is monotonous, rhythmless, cold even. It appears like Emile has dropped an act. "It is a host's duty to answer questions, but perhaps we could leave what you learn here a secret, if only for tonight."
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Helmuth smiles lightly in response to Helmuth. He leaves Emile and the mercenary with a whistle. He seems merry at the moment.
Seth speaks down to the cellar, giving warning to the coming host. Emile smirks. “I am glad you show concern for the wine as well. Shows you enjoy them.” He smiles, tucking the blade to his belt. “You own a small bar, no? I’ll be sure to send a barrell of Augustine’s finest your way.” He begins to descend the ladder, giving a light laugh. His head peeks out from the cellar hole. “Heh, oh Gods. Now it sounds like I am bribing you. I deal with stress rather poorly. Bye for now, Monsieur Varianna.” He gives a smile, descending into the dark basement.
“Raphael, are you here?” He stands on the floor now, making his way through the cellar. He doesn’t bother grabbing a candle, but walks slowly. “A dagger for you on orders of the splendid Madame Silverstone.” While Emile cannot be seen, he is most likely smirking. He looks down the first aisle, observing the candle at the end for any movement. He walks down to the second aisle, hands on the rack of wine to guide him.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile looks about the room, quickly shooting towards the cellar ladder. “Oh gods, the light is going to spoil the wine. Seth, ah, my good man, may I deliver this to Raphael? He won’t be needing it, and some of the vintages downstairs are older than even Sinclair and mustn't be disturbed.” He laughs to himself lightly, looking down the pit.
“You should keep watch, correct? It won’t be a hassle for me at all.” He grins slightly, taking a step forward.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile watches Eduard for a second. Afterwards, he begins to count the crowd in the foyer. He seems a bit distressed, and makes way towards Helmuth. After a brief conversation, he walks towards Nishara, asking her if she knows where her brother went off to. He searches the foyer once more, this time finding Halcyon and Caroline.
“Glad you two are making good company. Have you, um, seen Marcus around? Or know where he went off to?”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“So the hunt begins.” He smiles wryly at Valentina. As the guests enter, Emile looks north. “Of course, I’ll give word to Helmuth. The bathroom is opposite the smoke lounge. Mind the blood.” Halcyon joins with Caroline, and asks to join the trip. “Caroline knows the way. Watch over the Oracle and her Friend, won't you Caroline?” Caroline takes a step to the vestibule, leading the way against the tail end of the traffic. Marcus joins, and the four of them depart to the bathroom.
Emile pours himself a glass of wine, but stops before he drinks it. He beckons a servant. “Please collect all of the wine and food, we cannot risk another poisoning.” The servant nods. Raphael approaches and asks a question on Valentina’s whereabouts. “Just missed the bathroom party I am afraid. You should be able to catch up. Speaking of Helmuth...” Emile trails off, walking towards the young captain.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
The room quickly grows crowded. He looks to Helmuth, giving him a quick, faint smile and a gesture to his kitchen servants. He makes his way to Valentina. “So, anything new? If you need anything, anything at all, I can see if I have it in my abode.” He looks towards the coatroom door, closed, lowering his gaze. “Perhaps someone should speak to Eduard. As a host, perhaps it is my duty” He goes to the room, opens the door and is quickly yelled at. He closes the door, returning to the foyer. “Though maybe now isn't the time.”
Vincent ascends the staircase. He takes another potion, slipping the empty vial into his bag. It makes no sound as it falls inside it’s rift. He watches vigilantly.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“A potion? Heh, that would ruin the flavor.” He chuckles nervously. “Not appropriate, sorry. I am not good with dealing with these kind of … situations. I’ll fetch Ernest.” Emile heads to the ballroom. Before he leaves however, Eduard enters the room holding a cloaked figure. Her dress peeks out, as do small strands of her golden hair.
“Oh gods. Please tell me that…” Eduard tells him nothing, not paying no heed to the host. He ignores Valentina and her alchemy set up, walking west towards the coatroom. A servant exits shortly after he arrives. Through the door, Valentina spies him laying her upon a table. He closes it shut soon afterwards.
Emile heads north now. Despite a question from Helmuth, he heads straight to Ernest. “Valentina needs you in the foyer. She’s uh, doing…” he trails off, looking to the vestibule entrance. “Alchemy things.” is what he settles for. Ernest looks confused. “Testing for poison and whatnot. She asked for your help.” Ernest nods now, heading south. Emile follows, giving a small, solemn nod to Helmuth.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
“I will bring them, but you are to remain distant. They have no place in this, I promise you.” He heads south towards the kitchen to gather the servants there.
Valentina’s robot whirs, returning to Valentina with her alchemist kit and her weapons. The ballroom doesn’t have the tables to support her tests, so she brings everything to the front foyer. It is silent here, and Valentina is free to focus on her investigation while the others tend to Abigal. The Clockwork servant puts the weapons on the table beside the gathered evidence.
Emile enters the room as she begins to set up her Alchemist’s kit. He speaks to himself, “... grim. How did this happen, why did this happen? He looks to Valentina. “Oh. I am sorry, I didn’t notice you leave. It looks like everyone was correct on Halcyon’s abilities. Are you alright? Trying to escape the scene?” He now notices the alchemist set up. “Evidently not. I am afraid it may be too late for an antitoxin.”
Evidence:
- Abigal’s Wine Glass. She was apparently unable to finish it.
- Abigal’s Croissant. The last known food she consumed.
- Black Lotus Extract. A dangerous toxin that typically only requires contact. It has an onset time of one minute, and usually kills within thirty seconds of its effects showing.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile steps forward to Valentina, returning to her after her spin. “Opposites attract, I indulge myself plenty.” He breaks off from her, this time spinning himself, chuckling lightly. He returns to her once more. “I’ll have to have someone deliver what remains of dessert to your residence tomorrow. Maybe I’ll make my way there myself.” The dance comes to a close. Emile grinning at his partner.
He smiles, but the stumbling Abigal catches his attention. “And I felt she drank the least save Sinclair.” She falls and Emile looks to Halcyon and Vincent. He lets go of Valentina. As Abigal is lowered to the floor, his face twitches slightly, almost appearing disgusted, or agitated. He composes himself and walks to her as she begins coughing blood.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile and Valentina begin their dance, quickly finding that they both seem capable dancers, or at least together they are. “You know,”he starts “with those heels of yours, I was a bit afraid when you said you’d be stepping on my feet. But here you are dancing wonderfully. I sure do have a talent picking the best guests.” He grins.
The song begins to pick up.
“How has the evening gone for you? Everything to your liking? I tried to get something everybody would like for dessert, so I decided to get everything” The two of them elegantly twirl, Emile occasionally giving quick glances to Caroline and Beatrice, but always returning back to Valentina.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Emile grins as he enters the last remaining group. “You almost sound as if you are bragging, Marcus. Lets hope your dancing is as good as you say.” Emile listens to Valentina and Sinclair, making quick looks at those making their way to the ballroom. His head darts to the clockwork construct as Sinclair knocks on it.“You know,” he starts, “I was wondering earlier if that thing could dance. A dancing construct would be all I really need.” He laughs to himself, picturing it.
He looks to Valentina. “Our little meeting with Vincent upstairs got in the way of our conversation I wanted. Think we may continue it over a dance?” He smiles. “Otherwise I can take the construct and figure out if a clockwork man can keep up.”
”I thought leading the charge would be your specialty. Worry not, I will find others to join you.” Emile grins, leaving the group and his wine behind. Beatrice watches him sprint away, looking a bit annoyed.
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Group 1, All but Seth:
”How is the serious group going?” He winks at the group, grinning widely. “Can’t imagine anyone is going to volunteer to be among the first dancers with me? Anyone dare to prove me wrong?”
Party Host who Loves to Boast, Emile de Beaux | Theme Song | Know Local or Know Noble
Group 3, All:
Emile’s eyes follow Halcyon as she leaves, but moves to Agatha Agnes later as she walks towards her brother. “I suppose we can make our way there soon.” He looks around at the groups, searching for someone. His eyes fall on Darius Agnes, moving towards Marcus. “Eager to dance are you?” She playfully hits him, a bit of her drink spilling in the process. She smirks, taking a noticeable drink this time.
Emile turns back towards the rest of the group. “Shall we make our way to the ballroom?” He glances towards Lucia and Seth. “I am sure if the two of you start, the rest will follow suit. Lucky to have a partner, saves the imminent drama and tension.” He looks to Alistair now. "Feeling ready to dance?" Alistair shakes his head, holding his stomach at the thought. Emile laughs.
