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Fellow countrymen,
I can feel Taldor's power rising within us once more. When I first joined the Pathfinders many years ago, there were not many of us in the Society's midsts, but today I rarely go on a mission without a fellow Taldan. The key to Taldor's future success lies with us in the Society, and with every passing day I grow more and more confident that Taldor will once again return to its former glories. I look forward to conversing with you all in the future. (and remember to look your best! There is no point in being a Taldan if you don't look the part!)
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Lord Arthur Higgenstrom III
Owner of The Fantastic Fashions Caravan - Bringing you the helight of fashion from all over the Inner Sea!
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Huscarl Arnim Thayerd, Ulfen barbarian, turned adventurer
"Glory to Taldor, bah! All I want is enough glory for myself so I may be allowed to Join the Ulfen Guard and then retire to my homeland to become a King! I have already killed one dragon and had its hide fashioned into armor... how much more of a challenge would a linnorm be after that!"
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Countrymen
I have seen good Taldan patriots on my adventures, but also many with contempt for Taldor. Taldor has a great and glorious past and with our efforts will rise to be great once more. But with all due respect Lord Arthur, I think Taldor will rise regardless of success in the society. Nonetheless through the society we travel the world and have the opportunity to demonstrate the virtue of a true Taldan heart to the world. By our actions and our appearance let us be judged.
Glory to Taldor indeed.
Viscount Ottavio Emilior
(Pathfinder Chronicler, Scholar of the Wise Quarter & Falcata Master)
PS - Huscarl, we need strong Ulfen Guard, but if you wish to be trusted you must learn to love Taldor.
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Fear not fellow countrymen, I, Viscount Damien Rilos Al-Gwyth have arrived. As Ottavio says I have met many who denigrate our beloved Taldor in my travels as a Pathfinder. In all my travels I have found few Pathfinders sympathetic to our course but we stand strong anyway. Taldor will rise again, make no mistake. We, however, are in the unique position of being able to use the resources of the society to hasten our ascent, should we not do everything we can?
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A striking half-elf wearing fashionable clothes and sporting a symbol of Aroden raises a glass of fine wine. "Hear hear my friends, how wonderful it is to hear the eloquent allocutions of fellow nobles and patriot of Taldor. Too few still remember the greatness that was once Taldor, and fewer still understand the truth of our great nation. Like Aroden, Taldor may be forgotten and hidden from sight, but with honourable action and righteous vigor they shall rise to meet the world." With a flourish, he downs the wine.
"Let our voices be heard, Taldor lives still! Oh, and could someone be decent enough to convey me a brandy?"
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The problem with the Society is that it is filled with wrong do-ers. The Society asks us to plunder, maim and often kill others in the name of placing our names in a book. All too often, this even happens in the Great Taldor. We must refrain from injuring are fellow nationals.
When our Society Masters and Venture-Captains ask us to travel forth, we need to make sure we provide a positive image for our Grand Taldor.
Of course, any injury to the hated Qadirians is allowed.
Exiled_Taldan
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No doubt Exiled Taldan there are wrong do-ers in the Society, but there are many noble Taldans also. You have a dark opinion of the Society's directives, but much of what they ask leads us to exploration and knowledge.
As you say, we should refrain from injuring fellow Taldans. I know that the members of the Society do not all hold to our noble Taldan ideals. There are plots driven by the merchants of Qadira which in no way further our ideals. Still we must know that the fine spirit of Taldor stands strong in the actions of our countrymen.
I am a Pathfinder Chronicler and write in the books also. What I write will always have the interests of Great Taldor in mind. No doubt other chroniclers have their own bias in their writings.
Let us present a positive image for Grand Taldor wherever we travel and whatever we do. Let us take the lead in Society missions. Let us show the others what it is that we bold sons and daughters of Taldor stand for, and let us do it in the style, flair and fashion that Taldor is famous for.
In Aroden's name
Viscount Ottavio Emilior
(Loyal Taldan man of Cassomir)
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Exiled_Taldan, while they may be wrong-doers in the society, I have found that many members are simply misguided. Many people don't realize how much better the world would be with Taldor back to its proper heights. It is our responsibility as representatives of Taldor to the rest of the world to show what the shining model of the Taldan citizen is like and how horrible things would be if those Qadiran idiots would be in charge. I mean seriously, worshiping the god of light? Seriously? How about worshiping the god of art, something that takes real skill to follow?
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Lord Arthur Higgenstrom III
Owner of The Fantastic Fashions Caravan - Bringing you the helight of fashion from all over the Inner Sea!
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TALDOR!
I General Goldfrapp the Naked Halfling TALDORAN Trebuchet of the TALDORAN Trebuchet Army in Absalom suggest that everybody join the Army.
Get enough prestige, hire a herald to announce you and leave TALDAN Army flags behind at each location being explored that hasn't been claimed by another faction. Claim new territory, claim new regions, claim unexplored caves and expanses all in the name of TALDOR.
Your Greatest Asset in Absalom,
Gen. Goldfrapp the Naked Halfing TALDORAN Trebuchet of the TALDORAN Trebuchet Army in Absalom.
My Dear Goldfrapp
Joining an army is not for everybody. Many Taldans serve Taldor in other more sophisticated ways. The army is a fine vocation for the right sort of fellow. Of course, I myself am a scholar and pursue scholarly pursuits. Although it is true I am a dab hand with a Falcata also, but that is merely the prerogative of nobility. I bear the magestic weapon Even'star.
I hope that you jest when you speak of your nakedness. Firstly you may catch a chill in the wrong season in Taldor. But secondly my friend, dress yourself in the finest of fashions. Parade you stylish suit, not your birthday suit. Find a wig that suits and marvel in the improvement to your appearance.
So my friend, I assure you that as you suggest, I will claim much in the name of Taldor, and will do so dress in the finest clothing and with panache and zest. Your spirit in this endeavour has the potential to cover us all (especially your nakedness) in Taldan flags and glory.
Yours
Viscount Ottavio Emilior
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Greetings fellow members of the peerage. I report success in my mission within the Tapestry this day. May such victories continue to spur us onward. Take no heed of naysayers or rumors afoot that Taldor is not long for this world. Strive on, my countrymen, and, if I may so humbly implore you, continue to press for the reclamation of the northern March of Galt from those vile anarchhsts.
When our glorious Empire is again made whole, Aroden shall live again!
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A tall, slender young woman light auburn hair and bright blue eyes enters.
Older women turn their backs in dusgust as the young woman enters, seemingly clad only in a bikini and a cloak. Some men, ogling silently , are brought sharply back to reality with an elbow to the ribs.
Much gossip and rumour precede this young lady. Former ballet dancer at the greatest theatres, now a Paladin of Shelyn. Her Holy symbol nestling in her cleavage.
She is only known a "Sian". What arrogance, not even having a surname or Title!
Wild rumours surround Sian as tightly as her cloak against the cold wind. Some even say she was in the winning team of the Ruby Phenix Tournament! Many refuse to believe it.
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In walks an average sized gnome, though his grey skin and brown hair are much more earthy and subdued than the blue, green, pink, and other colors of many gnomes. He makes up for this in his clothing, which is a brightly colored version of the latest Taldor fashion. However, his typical gnome personality shines through as soon as he begins speaking, as he rambles very quickly through his greeting.
"Hello! I'm Yzarctihstab Garblenarf, of the noble Garblenarf gnome family of the Verduran Forest of northern Taldor. Doubtless, you've heard of my famous family, if not myself?" He doesn't wait for a response before continuing, though anyone who knows anything about gnomes immediately recognizes that there's no such thing as a noble gnome family name. Many family names don't even last a generation among gnomes, let alone long enough to become established nobility, as they tend to change their names on a whim. "As a sorcerer of great power and renown, it has been my pleasure to serve the nation of Taldor from within the Pathfinder Society. So, now that we're all acquainted..." he pauses, "What's the latest gossip from the nobility back home?" he asks with a wide grin.
OOC: Yzarctihstab really was born in the forests of northern Taldor, and left to see the rest of the world. He discovered the Taldor nobility, and decided their petty politics and squabbles were endlessly fascinating - it's like reality TV to him. So he plays along in order to be included on the gossip, while also joining the Pathfinder Society to see more of the world. He's also a nearly pathological liar, and very good at it, so his feigned loyalty to Taldor is very well rehearsed.
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The half-elf blinks as the two ladies enter the room. "The quality of company has suddenly increased dramatically. Earl Rannik Malanus, at your service." He says with a flourish of his stylish hat.
Sipping his newly acquired brandy, he turns to Garblenarf. "Greetings to you Lord Yzar... Yartcul... Umm... Fellow noblefellow. I am Earl Rannik Malanus, Leidang of the Grand Prince and Paladin duelist of Aroden." He bows to the gnome.
"I am not one for peddling rumours, but if you are intrigued by current affairs, our benevolent emperor has announced that anyone who claims land from rogue lords will be given the formal title of that territory.
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Hello, fellow pathfinders. I wish I could greet you with my fiancé as Taldans, but a curse from my former mentors in Irrisen have seen to that. I am grateful to the Taldans embassy for taking me in when the only reason they should look at me was because they thought I was the exotic courtesan of a young noble, even when my love was cursed to become a cat. I look forward to working with you all!
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Hello my dear Myffany
My apologies, was I staring. Yes, at your armor, that's right.
Yes. Umm. Charity. She is a lovely woman it is true and I am at times smitten by her, but since I bit her in a fit of insanity she has been somewhat cold around me. I don't think followers of Iomedae are as fond of biting as you might have thought. Also for some reason she is convinced that Taldor is a nest of slavery.
On the slavery point, let me say publicly that I have never owned a slave, nor aspired to do so. All of my retainers are paid or serve me in a capacity where they gain other benefits (enough said). Here I refer to my darling squire, Susanna, who is well trained in Falcata thanks to my somewhat expert tutelage.
And Myffany [whispered] Could you introduce me to your friend Sian? I think you're lovely Myffany, but your muscles overwhlem me. Sian's armor looks nice too. And I am an eligible Taldan noble. Perhaps you could throw something about in my shy, scholarly nature. Remember I do like Shelyn. Just, tell me something about her. Enough to impress her.
You really do confuse me Myffany. Please don't hug me. You really are too strong for a nice young girl. I've been looking out for a potential husband for you, but he will have to be really strong I think.
Anyway I need to get back to my latest Pathfinder Chronicle. Perhaps you'd like to read it sometime. You can read, right? By the way, nice wig! And enough about my battle cries. At least I express my feelings.
Yours teasingly
Viscount Ottavio Emilior
(the shy, studious type)
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"It seems we have here a perfect sampling of the hope of new glory for Taldor," an impeccably dressed noblewoman says softly with a smile as she enters the lounge with the other Pathfinders.
"Too many of our brethren use our glorious past and superior breeding as an excuse to be insufferable, oafish, and decadent, treating our lessers like garbage. Instead, I believe that our superior opportunities give us the responsibility to educate and assist them so that they may aid us in our return to the preeminent power in the world. It is only through admitting that we have fallen from that position that we can regain it, rather than sit in our villas and fan ourselves under the delusion that nothing has changed."
"But I am preaching to the choir. It is good to see so many other followers of the Eternal Rose here today to represent Taldor, after hearing from a friend of mine about the scoundrel representing our nation as a suitor at the Grand Convocation."
"I'm sure many of you have already recognized me from my ring. I am Cordelia Livia Cassandra Elysia Perseis, a scholar of magic and as of recently a matchmaker. If you desire a marriage, not just a political alliance but a bond with a partner you can love, particularly if you are interested in strengthening Azlanti bloodlines among our nobility, don't hesitate to speak with me, here or in private."
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The words of Hans von Lepidstadt, northern warrior-alchemist:
"Ven my brot'r Franz undt I trevvl to Abslom, ve get der colt shoulters vom lotz uv peoples, but der Taldan volk vass nice to uz. Det iz vy ve help der Taldan peoples. Dose southern girly-men don' eat 'nuv raw meat: Dey needz help from strong Ulfen varriors mit massif muscles!"
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Greetings Countrymen and, more importantly, Countrywomen,
I must echo some of your aforementioned statements. When I first joined the Society, I often found myself the lone outsider, surrounded by those foul devil worshipers and members of those other outer colonies experimenting in their false claims of independence.
But oh have the tides turned. It is indeed a rare mission where I do not find myself in the company of one, if not more, of my fellow Taldans. Surely this is a sign of great things to come.
Raise your glasses, my fellow Countrywomen and Countrymen, and drink a toast to our aging Grand Prince and his heir apparent Princess Eutropia!
Glory to Taldor and to the inevitable Reunification!
Knowledge (Nobility) DC 20
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Wow!
It seems that I am in the presence of so many great Taldan men and women. I am in esteemed company. What I see and hear here brings a tear to my eye. Taldan brothers and sisters, where are you? I adventure for the Pathfinder Society and meet so few of you. At times I almost forget how great the Taldan people are and yet here you are - the most beautiful people of this world. I bow before you.
You Taldan women are the most beautiful and stylish I have seen. Cordelia Livia Cassandra Elysia Perseis, find me a match. I am of an age and a time to seek to settle down. Not old, mind you. I am in the prime of my life. I do not like to blow my own horn, but I am young, wealthy and well educated. By Aroden and my good fortune - I am Taldan.
My falcata skills have been honed by many years of practice and I use mine with a buckler. Although not in the Rondelero style - I prefer my own. I dabble in acting and oratory performance. I know quite something of alchemy, but bombs are not for me, knowledge is my currency. And I know a little of magic and sometimes more than wizards and many sorcerers.
Abraduchess is a title I have not heard, but Sarina vanHoek your deeds are not unknown to me. I feel that in some ways, we may be two peas in a pod. Glory to Taldor as you say. The rise of Taldor is coming. As for those Devil worshippers, I care little for them. Many are upstarts - crude, crass and unexciting. I will raise my glass and drink your toast.
I bow again before you all. The pleasure is mine.
Viscount Ottavio Emilior
(founder of the Emilior style of falcata fightling)
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I had not heard of the title myself before I deposited the turban of a certain Qadiran representative upon the desk of our poor departed Baron Dalsine. Truth be told, I believe the Baron's request for the acquisition of the turban was nothing more than a fool's errand or a momentary flight of fancy, as were so many of his requests, judging by the look upon his face as I presented it to him.
I was not alone in receiving such a title. AbraDuke Quintus Vespario was raised to similar station around the same time as I, though for what feats I know not. Indeed, from shortly after our parallel rise in rank some three years back, I have heard nothing of the Abraduke.
Another toast, my fellow Taldans! To comrades lost in serving the Honor and Glory of the Empire! May their blood not have been spilled in vain!
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You Taldan women are the most beautiful and stylish I have seen. Cordelia Livia Cassandra Elysia Perseis, find me a match. I am of an age and a time to seek to settle down. Not old, mind you. I am in the prime of my life. I do not like to blow my own horn, but I am young, wealthy and well educated. By Aroden and my good fortune - I am Taldan.My falcata skills have been honed by many years of practice and I use mine with a buckler. Although not in the Rondelero style - I prefer my own. I dabble in acting and oratory performance. I know quite something of alchemy, but bombs are not for me, knowledge is my currency. And I know a little of magic and sometimes more than wizards and many sorcerers.
"A gentleman and a scholar I see. Please, I generally simply go by Lady Perseis or to a man of your standing, simply Cordelia."
*Cordelia pulls out a stack of notes, covered in family crests, mostly written in shorthand.*
"Allow me to examine my records for matches. In the meantime, how important do you find the following criteria in a perspective match: Purity of bloodline, Compatibility of interests, Compatibility of personality and temperament, Political influence of family, Physical attractiveness, Personal accomplishment."
I was not alone in receiving such a title. AbraDuke Quintus Vespario was raised to similar station around the same time as I, though for what feats I know not. Indeed, from shortly after our parallel rise in rank some three years back, I have heard nothing of the Abraduke.
"As it turns out, my friend Lasair, a priestess of the Eternal Rose who, being unfortunately non-Taldan, dedicates her time to Ollysta Zadrian's cause, spent a good deal of the 4712 Grand Convocation with the good Abraduke. He was well when last the shadows were banished from the Grand Lodge's halls."
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Lovely to meet you Lady Perseis, and if you will permit me to call you Cordelia, then you may certainly call me Ottavio.
Thank you for looking into this match making for me. I'm not sure how best to do this. Criteria important to me, well ...
* Purity of bloodline is not very important to me. I hope she would be Taldan from a fine Taldan family I guess. Definitely not Chelaxian or a follower of any evil religion. I am not strongly religious, but at times I am inspired by the ways of our dead lord Aroden.
* Compatibility of interests? Well my dear lady, one of my interests is women and I would prefer that she didn't share that one. Other than that, I'm sure you are right, interests are important. Please ask any questions about me that you think you should.
* Compatibility of personality and temperament is very important, but how can we know this without meeting? I have found myself to get along with many people, but not all.
* Political influence of family is an interesting thing. Perhaps strong political influence will no doubt be access to power at the expense of safety and simplicity. I do not think I care too much about this.
* Physical attractiveness is something that I would like - I am only human. Although my lady does not have a need to be the most beautiful woman in Golarion, I would like to find her attractive. Perhaps again meeting her is important too. One man's unattractive is another man's beauty.
* Personal accomplishment might be an important thing. I would like my lady to be my equal in all ways, not a flower who lives in my shadow. I am perhaps not the most accomplished of men, but I have achieved fame and fortune from a long career with the Pathfinder Society and now I like to spend my time penning tales of Pathfinder matters.
I suppose my ideal would be an independent spirit with whom I might share interests and a mutual respect. In truth though, I think I will only know her when I meet her.
How's that so far?
Please ask any questions that come to mind. Cordelia, I think that the more you ask the more likely you are to find me the lady who I seek.
with the most pleasant of regards
a noble servant of great Taldor
Ottavio
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Ursus listens with passing interest as the nobleman lists his priorities.
"There's only a couple things you need on a woman", the big Ulfen says with a booming laugh. "And a fool thing like 'bloodline' ain't one of them."
As another pint of mead is dropped at his table the massive Northman swats the leaving serving girl appreciatively on the ass.
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Well! I recently got back from my first excursion for the Pathfinders! Tian Xia was wonderful, although I did get odd looks for suggesting we use the Tengu prisoner's arrows as fletching. Thank Nethys I avoided working in the fields... I really should hire someone to carry my luggage, also.
I managed to buy some lovely jewelry in Goka, though, and I was getting tired of peasant food and the strange looks of fear I was receiving in the streets. It was like they've never seen a blue tiefling...
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Having left earlier, Yzarctihstab Garblenarf the gnomish sorcerer returns, looking quite distressed, his fine Taldan clothing torn in several places.
"That... that... that was just... bad."
Looking up at the puzzled looks of the rest of you, he composes himself and explains, quickly losing his composure again as he babbles.
"Just got back from a mission. Cultists! Demons! Zombies! Dead Pathfinders!!! I was the only one to make it back alive! I'm not a powerful enough sorcerer to take on such fiends - I can't even cast glitterdust yet!!!"
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"There's only a couple things you need on a woman", the big Ulfen says with a booming laugh. "And a fool thing like 'bloodline' ain't one of them."
"Spoken just like an Ulfen would," the lady comments, whilst fanning away the summer heat. A small teapot lies within arm's reach, its contents brewing. An unopened letter sits under the weight of an upturned teacup, its position protected from any sudden gusts of air.
"Allow me," she continues, apparently puzzling through the scene in front of her. "I think I have heard this one before. Your next comment will have something to do with you needing all the pure bloodlines, because of the particularly important place on your Ulfen body where all the blood needs to go?" she asks.
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"Lady Perseis?" She calls from across the room. "Would you care to join me? I may just have a need for your services."
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Ursus opens his mouth to speak after the Talden noblewoman's initial statement but finds himself beaten to the punch.
Smiling a wide lecherous grin, he stands up the wench that he'd pulled into his lap just a moment ago and stands himself. The barmaid looks equal parts disappointed and relieved but departs to attend to her duties.
The hulking Northman crosses the room with an unmistakable warrior's swagger and stands next to the fanning beauty. Coming with him is the powerful combination of stale ale, lust, and the classic Ulfen musk.
"You're a clever lass", he says helping himself to a seat. "I've seen you around, here and at the Grand Lodge. What's your name and why haven't I seen you wearing less?"
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Lovely to meet you Lady Perseis, and if you will permit me to call you Cordelia, then you may certainly call me Ottavio.
Thank you for looking into this match making for me. I'm not sure how best to do this. Criteria important to me, well ...
*Cordelia sedulously takes note of Ottavio's preferences in a large book with purple covers.*
"Ah, I understand what you completely, Ottavio. Though for a man of your accomplishments, the most difficult may be matching you with a woman who can rival them. I will get back to you with the matches shortly after I determine the closest. Then I shall present you with brief details of information of each woman, and then, as you are quite correct that appearance is a subjective thing, I will let you take a look at each of them without even leaving this fine lounge. How? Well, you'll just have to wait and see, but I shall deliver. When you have selected those that interest you, I will make contact with their families and arrange for you to meet."
"Lady Perseis?" She calls from across the room. "Would you care to join me? I may just have a need for your services."
"Of course, I would be glad to help, Lady d'Apcher, and for a lady of your standing, Cordelia is fine if you prefer. The Eternal Rose smiles upon those who seek true love, and mighty Taldor's strength is built by those who forge marriage alliances. Now, tell me, are you looking for a match for yourself or for another?"
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"You're a clever lass", he says helping himself to a seat. "I've seen you around, here and at the Grand Lodge. What's your name and why haven't I seen you wearing less?"
"Hmm," she muses for a moment. "That is likely because everyone who has seen me wearing less already knew my name."
She points towards him, a gesture with perfect poise. "However, you did think to ask my name before venturing into crude territory. When compared to too many others, I guess you could call yourself polite."
She gestures towards the staff, and more teacups are brought to the lady's table. As the tea was just about ready, a serving is poured for Cordelia and Lady Gabrielle. The server gestures with the teapot towards Ursus, silently asking if he would care for some.
Lady Gabrielle turns to Cordelia. "It's for another. A family member. But first, what sort of match do you imagine would be appropriate for the Ulfen here?" she asks.
(OOC: From what I understand, since they're not close friends, rendering "Cordelia" inappropriate, "Lady Perseis" is about right. There aren't a whole lot of other options. (Just "Perseis" is right out.) Gabrielle isn't required to address Cordelia as "Milady," though. I do wish how this worked in Golarion was spelled out somewhere.)
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Ursus's eyes glaze over for a moment as Lady Gabrielle's quick wordplay baffles him.
Coming to the only conclusion he understands, the big Ulfen raises a golden eyebrow and smiles wide again, "There's a lot of things ladies have called me, but that's the first time it's been 'polite'."
Picking up on the server's silent gesture Ursus leans in and loudly sniffs the cups that have already been poured. Apparently liking what his sense tell him, he nods to the server.
"Perhaps I've had enough mead for now. Pour me some of that."
Before he can go back to 'seducing' Lady Gabrielle she begins her discussion with the Matchmaker. He roars in laughter when he becomes the topic.
"Save yourself the trouble lass. I've already got half a dozen wives - I'm not looking for another."
(OOC: From what I understand, since they're not close friends, rendering "Cordelia" inappropriate, "Lady Perseis" is about right. There aren't a whole lot of other options. (Just "Perseis" is right out.) Gabrielle isn't required to address Cordelia as "Milady," though. I do wish how this worked in Golarion was spelled out somewhere.)
(OOC: That's my understanding as well. Cordelia extends the gesture of offering her first name to anyone of appropriate rank who comes to speak with her about matchmaking in an effort to get them more comfortable speaking about intimate topics with her, like they might with a friend.)
Lady Gabrielle turns to Cordelia. "It's for another. A family member. But first, what sort of match do you imagine would be appropriate for the Ulfen here?" she asks.
"That depends on whether you'd like an answer in jest, to rib him for his coarser comments or a more serious answer. By default, I take matchmaking seriously, though I'll confess my main expertise is in matching those of a more noble persuasion."
*She pauses to consider the barbarian.*
"He has already stated that he is looking for certain...physical features as his main or perhaps only criterion. It would be trivial to give him the match he asks for with his words, as the world is full of beautiful but ultimately vapid women. Why, in the city of Korvosa alone, there were enough beautiful women to make a corps of soldiers consisting solely of maimed formerly-beautiful women who were also strong, agile, and tough enough to become soldiers, and these Grey Maidens were plentiful enough to declare martial law over the entire city."
"But what he wants, in this case, isn't what he truly needs. Not if he is to have a reciprocal and meaningful relationship. To look upon his match and see the face of the Eternal Rose and not just the Savored Sting. This man is simple and coarse but more perceptive, I think, than he always lets on. From my own knowledge of his exploits in the Pathfinder Chronicles, he is a member of the Ulfen Guard and renowned as one of the mightier warriors in the Society. He needs one of two things: Either a woman who is his peer in a field he considers fundamental, one who can wrestle with him and have a chance for a pin, or a woman who can fill in his gaps, so the two of them together make a balanced household. This latter would be clever and charming where he is strong and intuitive, but ideally she would share his competitive nature and enjoy wrestling as a spectator, if not a participant. Of course, either way, she would have to deal with the fact that he already has six wives who may at worst be floozies, so she would have to be open to a polygynous marriage...Ah, it is much easier to make a match for a man in tune with his heart, like Viscount Emilior, than one so distracted by...Calistrian pursuits that he cannot speak to the qualities of love beyond a woman's...curves."
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Ursus becomes a bit more serious when he sees Perseis' dedication to her craft.
"You've already been told I wasn't looking for another wife", he repeats. "But if that isn't enough, you should be hearing what I need in a woman for more than a romp."
The big Northman matches Gabrielle's gaze as he begins his list.
"She needs to be strong - if not a warrior herself, hardy enough to bear me healthy sons."
"She needs a good and brave heart - strong enough to endure the weeks sometimes months we'll be apart and selfless enough to come to terms with the fact that she's not the only woman tending to my needs."
"Last, she needs to be grounded; Content with life, love, and those things that are tied to the two", the Ulfen finishes.
His moment of seriousness passed, Ursus resumes his grin and drains the hot tea that was poured for him a moment ago.
"Know any girls like that, Matchmaker?"
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His moment of seriousness passed, Ursus resumes his grin and drains the hot tea that was poured for him a moment ago.
"Know any girls like that, Matchmaker?"
Lady Gabrielle chuckles as the Ulfen drinks his tea, as if it were a serving of hard liquor.
"So what you're saying, if I understand correctly..."
She gently points to the teacup Ursus drank from. "Is that your match can't be like a cup of tea. Instead, she has to be more like..."
She waves her hand towards the pile of large mugs where Ursus was seated before. "More like a mug of ale. Large, full-bodied, and with a flavor that is fully-experienced at first meeting. No subtleties, no introspection required to discern the entirety of it. And best of all, when the mug is dry, there's always another one behind it, ready and waiting for your continued consumption."
The lady takes a moment to sip from her own teacup, having enjoyed its scent for quite awhile now.
"I am in an entirely different predicament with regards to my elder brother Gerard. He is an avid follower of the Rose, and I think he had some sort of crisis of faith whilst adventuring for the Society. He's spent the bulk of the past year brooding on his own private island. Or whatever he needs to do before taking up the mantle of holy crusader for our goddess."
"Perhaps what he really needs is a woman. He was away from proper representatives of the fairer sex for far too long, and I think it has parched his heart. Do you think you can help me, Cordelia, before he either swears himself to celibacy, or worse, goes off on a binge?" the lady asks, waving towards the empty ale mugs once more.
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Ursus follows Gabrielle's analogy and nods.
"Aye", he says again impressed by the girl's quick wit.
The Ulfen listens as the Taldan noblewoman explains her concerns for her brother.
"If you're worried about getting your brother out of his shell, leave him with me for a few days and I'll fix him right up", the big Northman says. "I can show him around some of the seediest places here in Absalom. I've always said, 'You never really know a place until you have scrapped in its pubs and f**ked its whores'", he explains with another raucous laugh.
"That'll get his blood pumping again."
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"That'll get his blood pumping again."
"Unfortunately," the lady replies, "that is exactly what I wish to avoid. There is, however, one lady he mentioned... which reminds me..."
She looks over to Lord Higgenstrom. "Could you join us, Lord Higgenstrom? I believe you might provide some crucial insight on this matter." She waves her fan, gesturing towards an empty place at her table.
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*Cordelia looks through both her purple book and her shorthand notes for a short while. Partway through she looks up and assures everyone:*
"I haven't forgotten you--this just takes time."
*Finally, she turns to Ottavio first.*
"Ottavio, I've found several potential ladies who might be good matches. Now you said you wanted to see them for yourself, yes?"
*Cordelia carefully pronounces arcane syllables and traces gestures lightly through the air, and a lady appears, a brunette with shoulder-length curls and brown eyes, dressed in well-tailored finery. It seems like Cordelia's concentration is partly elsewhere as she speaks.*
"This is Olivia Albercroft. The shrewd and enterprising daughter of a side branch of the Albercroft family, Olivia has dedicated her last few years to various business ventures and enterpeneurial endeavors. She wants a husband who can be her partner in business as in all of life, someone with whom to share both triumphs and setbacks, a risktaker who won't balk at a gamble or be disheartened if it doesn't always pay off. Her interests include economics, jewelry, clothing, dueling, and card games--particularly those that involve a good deal of bluffing and reading people."
*With a wave of her hand, Cordelia transforms Olivia into a curvaceous woman, a striking beauty with long flaxen hair and green eyes, wearing a splendid evening gown.*
"This is Julia Alcestis. The strikingly beautiful heiress of the Alcestis family, Julia is a cosmopolitan dabbler and a social butterfly who is always on top of the latest in the social scene. Unable to focus on just one experience for long, the one skill Julia has persisted with is cooking, and it is widely considered that she may some day rank among the finest gourmet chefs. Her dishes always make the best use of the famous high-quality vintages cultivated in the Alcestis family's many vineyards. Julia is looking to marry a man who truly appreciates the finer things but is not afraid of new experiences either. Willingness to be a guinea pig for her new dishes is mandatory. Her interests include cooking, parties, falconry, wine tastings, calligraphy, and whatever else strikes her fancy at the moment."
*Another quick wave and Julia is replaced by a lithe and slender woman with short-cropped brown hair and piercing grey eyes wearing a military uniform.*
"This is Fiona Bozbeyli. The clever tomboyish youngest daughter of Governor Bozbeyli of Cassomir, Fiona has followed in her father's footsteps by joining the Taldan Horse as a cavalier of the Order of the Lion. A lithe and agile warrior, Fiona values quick thinking and adaptability on the battlefield and in a husband. A worshiper of Iomedae, her interests include riding, raising, and training horses, military history, strategic games, swordplay, and jousting."
*With another wave of Cordelia's hand, Fiona melts away, revealing a graceful, alluring woman with long dark hair and dark eyes, dressed in the light flowing silks of a dancer, wearing a small brooch bearing the symbol of the Kith.*
"This is Octavia Coremont. The graceful and alluring middle daughter of Taldor's most famous corsair, Octavia is a recent graduate of the Kitharodian Academy, a dancer and floutist of some skill, capable of delicate yet powerful performances. She was trained to defend herself at a young age, as her father has a bounty on his head from Qadira, Cheliax, and at least three other nations across the Inner Sea. Somewhat mercurial, Octavia wants a man who can spice up her life with more excitement than the Kith had to offer, and she yearns for any excuse to travel across the Inner Sea. A worshiper of Desna, her interests include music and dance, sailing, thrill-seeking, and new experiences."
*Just as before, Cordelia waves her hand to reveal another woman, this one with striking red hair and a spirited look in her blue eyes.*
"This is Sabina Karthis. The fiery-spirited and fiery-haired daughter of a renowned senator, Sabina shares her father's passionate patriotism and hatred of Qadira. She is a trained orator and hopes to one day join the senate like her father before her, and she wants a husband who can keep up with her in a debate and who will share or at least support her political ambitions. Her interests include classic authors, history, rhetoric, swordplay, and politics."
*Once again, Cordelia waves her hand, and the fiery Sabina shifts to a woman with the opposite demeanor, a demure starry-eyed young woman with long brown hair in a braid and big brown eyes.*
"This is Theodora Pythareus. The shy reclusive niece of Commander Pythareus, Theodora spends most of her days in the library, dreaming of the fanciful tales she favors. She hopes to meet a man who will sweep her off her feet like in the stories, and she is particularly looking for a man who is well-read. A worshiper of Shelyn, her interests include poetry, visual art, singing, writing and reading, particularly stories and tales of far-off lands."
*Cordelia waves her hand again, and the image shrinks down to a petite woman with short dark hair and blue eyes.*
"This is Creusa Themis. The bold and adventurous first cousin of the Venture Captain of Cassomir, Creusa hopes to make a name for herself as a field agent of the Pathfinder Society so that she will no longer fall in her cousin's shadow and can be judged by her own merits. A skilled duelist, she fights with a falcata and an empty hand, rather than the traditional buckler, and she reads her opponent's every move in order to be able to anticipate and avoid their attacks. Recently returned from several missions in Varisia, Creusa was utterly charmed by the Heidmarchs' relationship, and she wants a marriage that can be just like that--two adventurers who cover each others' backs in every situation. The fact that she can drop her last name when she takes her husband's and hopefully quell the instant comparison with her cousin is only icing on the cake. A worshiper of Cayden Cailean, her interests include antiques, travelogues, swordplay, dueling, and drinking."
"Ottavio, if you have any follow-up questions about any of these women or would like me to show you what they look like again, don't hesitate to ask. If there are some you wish to meet, I can contact them and arrange a date for you to get to know each other."
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*Having finished her first pass for Ottavio, Cordelia turns her attention back to Ursus and Gabrielle.*
"Know any girls like that, Matchmaker?"
"It's a simple matter of who I am and what sorts of men and women choose to employ my services that leads to the vast majority of my list of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes who wish to be matched being drawn from the upper classes of Taldor. However, while I can't arrange you an official meeting with a woman who will come hoping to meet you, I am still capable of pointing out to you any woman who matches your description that I may have met on my travels or heard of from my friends. The woman in question may well be uninterested in a relationship with you, but the only match I can think of is a woman named Rafarta Rannveig, a guard from Trollheim."
*Cordelia waves her hand, and a tall muscular Ulfen woman appears. Rafarta is young and strong and, at odds with her profession, quite attractive. She does bear a few small scars on her chin and cheeks, but they seem to only add to her beauty rather than detract from it.*
"If you are actually interested beyond a hypothetical, one warning to you though. Rafarta knows how men usually react to her—and she hates it. She’s always wanted to serve the people of Trollheim as a protector and guardian, and though women warriors are treated the same as male warriors in your society, Rafarta still finds it hard to do her job with the leers, stares, and off-hand remarks about her anatomy that are made daily in her presence. Compliment her weapons, her battle prowess, or even her scars, but for Shelyn's sake don't make an immediate pass at her about her body."
*Cordelia turns back to Gabrielle.*
"I have a few ideas about your brother, Lady d'Apcher. A lot of it depends on how engaged you can convince him to be in the matchmaking process. Ideally, he would come meet with me as the good Viscount did, and I could ask him about his preferences and criteria. Based on your assessment of his ennui, that may not be possible. In that case, if you like, I can at least put him on my list of bachelors if you give me some information about him that I can share, and preferably let me see him. That way, when I meet with young lady clients, I can do just what I did here today for Viscount Emilior and read off your brother's name in the list, complete with a lifelike image of his fine features. That way, even if he is too far gone to proactively make choices about his romantic future, he may feel touched if I find a woman who specifically asks to meet with him and perhaps he will be more likely to agree to it.*
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Thank you for making me aware of all of these fine Taldan ladies Cordelia.
They all sound like lovely ladies. You know I have long been fascinated with a woman who aligns herself with Andoran and is a paladin of Iomedae.
So back to your ladies. I know I have mentioned that I find an overabundance of musculature unappealing. To be clear, I am not a delicate waif of a man. I am young and strong, but I won't ever win an arm wrestle with a typical Ulfen guard. So curves are good, but biceps the size of my neck are not my taste.
You know I feel I'm getting frivolous, which is a fault, and I am serious about finding a wife, so pardon me. I'll get back on track.
Olivia Albercroft sounds nice, but business bores me - perhaps strangely for a scholar.
Julia Alcestis might be an interesting woman to meet, but be honest with me, the way you describe her, I fear she might be
I'm sorry, but Fiona Bozbeyli lost me once you said Iomedae. I won't look in that pasture again.
Octavia Coremont from the Kith sounds ravishing. It would be nice to meet her. Actually I fear I might bore her. Some days I'm more quill-seeker than thrill-seeker.
Ok now, Sabina Karthis, well, some of my friends are Qadirans and, live and let live. You know what I mean?
Theodora Pythareus. Now there's a woman I think I'd like to meet. Not too reclusive I hope. She does adventure with the Pathfinders right? I've been hearing a lot of good things about Shelyn recently, and to meet a Shelyn follower without massive biceps and a glaive would be nice. What's with that? Does anyone know?
As for Creusa Themis. Well she sounds nice, and I'd like to cross swords with her sometime (in the training grounds of course), but Cayden Cailean followers seem to be prone to excesses and I am looking for a wife, not a drinking buddy.
So, and I am trying to be absolutely serious here Cordelia, I would be delighted to meet Theodora Pythareus and perhaps Octavia Coremont. They sound like the ladies that I think I might be most interested in. This talk of match-making sounds a little awkward sometimes you know. I think I'll be better at the next stage of actually meeting the ladies.
I bow before you Cordelia. You do me a great service and I am grateful. If things work out I would hope that you would accept an invitation to my wedding, and I would ensure that you would be seated in a place of particular importance.
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I bow before you Cordelia. You do me a great service and I am grateful. If things work out I would hope that you would accept an invitation to my wedding, and I would ensure that you would be seated in a place of particular importance.
*Cordelia gives an enthused smile and laughs gently.*
"Oho, perhaps I should add patron deity to my list of criteria? I will not second-guess your choices in the least, but I will point out that many followers of certain deities are quite varied amongst themselves. For instance, I heard a tale of a Pathfinder cleric of Desna--not just a faithful but a cleric!--who laughed with glee as she burned some ex-druids to death. Some worshipers of Iomedae choose the goddess for her egalitarian view of women or races, or for her focus on bravery without being as reckless as Cayden or on combat without being as bloodthirsty as Gorum. Oh, but I do go on, and probably an unwanted mini-lecture. My apologies Ottavio!"
"As to Julia Alcestis, things are not always as they seem--"
"None of these ladies are members of the Pathfinder Society except for Creusa. Most of them are probably capable of passing the rigorous training regimen to enter the Society. Theodora would not be too reclusive to meet with a prospective match, but she is rather shy. You don't seem like you are the loud or boisterous sort who would overwhelm her, though, and that's part of why I thought you might be a good match."
"As for Octavia--well, being married with a Pathfinder would give her the opportunity to travel throughout the Inner Sea. Your tales of adventure might qualify as excitement, perhaps? Remember that most of my clients of both genders are not Pathfinders, so even if you are not the most exciting Pathfinder, you are surely more exciting than most people she meets simply by virtue of being a Pathfinder. And a man of your accomplishments? Well, I think 'unexciting' may be selling yourself short."
This talk of match-making sounds a little awkward sometimes you know. I think I'll be better at the next stage of actually meeting the ladies.
"But of course you would. Theodora is certainly in Oppara right now, and Octavia is probably either at the Kith or visiting her father in Cassomir. I will have word sent by sending. Do you have a good 23 word description of yourself? Oh, actually, don't worry about it--I shall provide one. I will have your answer shortly, with a time and place if affirmative."
(OOC: In case it wasn't clear (I say this because you asked if these were all members of the Pathfinder Society, so you may have been thinking they were all people's PCs), these women are all NPCs that I made up, as Cordelia has yet to meet any female PCs looking for a match--she meets plenty of female PCs, but it seems like the men are more likely to want matches. She has matched a local PC to his current wife (an NPC) though. That's what started her as being a matchmaker, actually.
We can assume that all the women Ottavio picked will at least want to meet with him. He's level 12 and also a viscount, so at the very least, he's a mover and shaker! From there, you can decide how the relationship proceeds. One thing I've seen someone do is to represent their wife as one of the vanity characters so that they could actually have her tag along.)
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She looks over to Lord Higgenstrom. "Could you join us, Lord Higgenstrom? I believe you might provide some crucial insight on this matter." She waves her fan, gesturing towards an empty place at her table.
"It would be my pleasure." He moves to the chair indicated by the lady and sits down.
"It's a shame that I haven't seen Gerard in a while. Some of the Pathfinders I have worked with have been quite insufferable, and working with Gerard was a welcome respite. What has happened to him?"