Regent of Jade [IC]

[PersonMan]

The sky is clear, an endless blue stretching from the horizon ahead to the slowly-shrinking mountains behind you. For once, neither the dark clouds of the impending winter storms nor plunging temperatures mar any appreciation of the weather - the day is bright, with only a crisp chill in the air rather than the constantly piercing cold of the past weeks. After emerging from the caves, you have spent a handful of days following a simple road leading south, surrounded mostly by fields of hardy grasses and small shrubs. There are frequent signs of the road's popularity; areas of bare earth, dotted with fire pits, are passed every few hours, and any stream or pond near the road is accompanied by a small sign bearing text in a number of languages, declaring the water either safe or unsafe to drink. There are also occasional signposts, each with the same content: the distance to Ordu-Aganhei, and a warning in three languages that banditry is punished by death, followed by 'display of the shameful criminal's head on the walls of the city'.

Your guide, Ulf Gormundr, explains that Ordu-Aganhei is the capital and largest city of Hongal, the northernmost nation of Tian-Xia. Most of its people are nomadic, spending as much time in the saddle as they do on their feet, if not more. Ordu-Aganhei and the roads leading between it, the Crown of the World and the other nations of Tian-Xia are the safest places for outsiders in the region, as the khan's decrees regarding safe travel for traders are harshly enforced. The city itself is a hub of trade during the months the Path of Aganhei is open, but remains busy even during winter due to the thermal springs, which are almost revered by most guides even though the vast majority have never had a chance to enter them - access is strictly controlled by Prince Batsaikhar, the city's ruler, and generally expensive even for those allowed to enter.

As the daylight nears its end, the city rises from the horizon, its walls towering over the flat landscape. A single entrance is visible ahead, a stone tower decorated with colorful banners and bearing a single large gate, around which half a dozen figures stand, though they're still a good distance away, leaving time for final preparations or questions before arrival.

[Hazuki]

"And so we come to civilization," Kedani says as she peers out of the door to get a better look at the city they're approaching. She favors neither city nor the road, but she definitely favors warmth and company after the long journeys they've had thus far. She listens patiently to Ulf's explanation of the city and its place in the world and ndos. "Thank you, Ulf. Let's hope the guards are in a good mood today and let us get to some well-deserved rest."

And with the approach of the city comes potential danger. She focuses on the thought of a still grave, cold earth, and the ever-familiar calm to help bolster her health. Then she cals upon the image of a river that splits against a large rock, the feeling of stubbornness, and feels an intangible force around her. Finally, her outfit changes to one that matches the local styles - not daring to go for nobility, but wealthy and familiar enough for the guards to trust that she knows her business in the area.

She shares a look with Lilkazu, the black-clad Lyrakien who had happily been sitting perched on Zaiobe's lap, and the tiny woman reluctantly hops into the air to hide in one of Kedani's pouches.

"I think I'm all set..." Kedani says, pauses. "No, wait, one more thing!" She leans over to plant a kiss on Zaiobe's cheek, then leans against the open doorframe. "Now I'm ready."

Mage Armor, False Life. Lilkazu had her Mage Armor cast this morning.

[Man on Fire]

Upon leaving the wagon Celeste stretches her arms while letting out a long yawn. Having, as usual, practicing her magic until late night she is still not fully waken up yet and certainly not a morning person and still has a half-drank cup of coffee in her hand.

"The sun, my mortal enemy. We meet again." She grumbles to herself, even though she is far from a light-sensitive person. Something dark, something terrible, follows her out of the wagon and gently, slowly, probs her hand, demanding morning scratches behind the ear, which she gracefully provides. Behersha, a terrifying, four-legged shadow of a thing in a vague shape of a wolf, has been her loyal, if unnerving to everyone else, companion. For her it was a good friend, a big puppy that needs some love. For everyone else, it was clear that if she wasn't there this thing would try to kill them all. With some magical gestures, the girl grants both them their usual magical protection and sets off to welcome new daily challenges.

"Morning, Kedani, Ulf, Zaiobe." She greets everyone, especially kind tone reserving for the harpy that has become her good confidant in these days. Behersha greets them all with the usual, hungry "Grrrrrrrrr". At first, Celeste almost sinks in old habits of shyness and restraint but reminds herself a lesson these few moths have hammered - these people are not her enemies and will not chastise her for saying something stupid or failing at anything. "Should I accompany you?" She offers Kedani. "I mean, when you want to make a good impression, an extra pretty face won't hurt...unless it was like, growing from the side of your head, I guess. Or in some other nasty places... I mean imagine faces just getting everywhere, like sand...." She gets lost in her trial of thought.

Mage Armor on both herself and Behersha

[Daishain]

Aelan comes trotting up from the rear of the caravan where he'd been watching for trouble. As usual, the mageknight he's wearing his family armor, an enchanted set of mithral plate.

Rubbing his horse's neck with a hand, he asks the guide, "What kind of reception can we expect in there? Is the city welcoming to Outsiders?"

[Toliudar]

As has been her usual pattern for the last few days, Nimbus has been a hundred feet up in the air in the mornings and late in the afternoons, coming down only for a few hours in the middle of the day to share lunch, rest and chat in the back of the wagon. On the most recent of these visits, she spoke at length about the care and beauty of the landscape around them.

"It's hard not get excited about Ordu-Aganhei, after all this time travelling."

She looked fondly over at the women and men with whom she had entrusted her life these past weeks, through all of the trials, setbacks and revelations. It was unusual to trust so quickly. But these were good folk.

--

Now, come evening, Nimbus lands in the wagon again, and dusts herself off in preparation for their entry into Ordu-Aganhei. Making sure that her thick shield is strapped to her back, she squares her shoulders and prepares for the next stage.

She normally scouts in eagle form during the day. As they prepare to enter the city, Nimbus will cast Greater Magic Fang and Barkskin on herself.

[PersonMan]

Zaiobe's silent mental voice carries a familiar note of amusement. The most vital part of any preparation. The harpy stays settled beside Kedani, remaining as the caravan arrives as well, either too comfortable in her quilt to want to leave it, or cautious of the potential impression her wings could make on the guards.

"Generally, yes. As long as you're careful to follow the Prince's laws," Ulf replies, though a frown on his face betrays that what comes next won't be good. "But we started very late - it's incredibly rare for someone to arrive so late in the season. They might think we're disguised bandits, or other troublemakers, who have captured a caravan."

As the group approaches the gates, the guards shift into more alert postures, and soon they come forwards, leaving their spots just by the gate. Their expressions don't bode well, and the one in front asks a barrage of questions in Tien while the others move to inspect the various carts. They work quickly, kicking up dust with their rapid movements from one to the other, but maintain an air of politeness - they seem adept at using nods, pointing and small bows to get across requests and pleasantries even to those who don't speak a word of Tien. The one asking the questions is less pleasant. While he avoids any outright impoliteness or direct implications, it soon becomes clear that his numerous pointed questions are coming from a place of deep suspicion. Kedani is able to successfully deal with the major suspicions, but the guard seems absurdly stubborn, offering reason after reason why the group might not be able to enter the city, and would need to make camp in the caravanserai outside its walls.

As the inspection itself comes to a close - prompting another set of highly specific questions from the lead guard - the gate rumbles into motion, opening up to reveal two figures who quickly come forwards, prompting the guards to turn from the caravan to them. One of the figures is a man dressed in dark robes, who strides forwards without a glance at the guards, who drop to one knee as he approaches. The second stays further away, and is encased in a suit of armor that makes description beyond 'humanoid' and 'tall, probably muscular' pointless. Of note is the style of armor; rather than being the same sort as that of the guards, it's a familiar suit of Avistani plate, though the swords at their side are the curved sort more common to Tian-Xia. As the armored one watches silently, the man reaches what seems to be his destination in front of the party and clears his throat.

The man then proceeds to fall to his knees, then bend forwards, prostrating himself before the group.

"Honored guests! I bid you welcome! Welcome! And three welcomes more! Please, pay these simpering fools no mind - they and their insolence are unworthy of your attention. Prince Batsaikhar, golden orb of sunlight at the black portal of barbarism, welcomes you to Ordu-Aganhei, the City at the Edge of the World. He, in all his wise grace, invites his honored guests to his humble palace to dine, rest, partake in polite conversation and, perhaps, indulge in some pleasure. I bring the golden Prince's word: he hopes that you will honor him with your clever speech from strange lands, a speech he and those of the palace have mastered. He is eager to hear of your journey across the Crown of the World in this most difficult time of travel."

At the end of the man's speech, the armored figure makes a shallow bow, turns and leaves, re-entering the city while the man remains on the ground, seemingly awaiting a reply.

[Hazuki]

"They were no trouble at all. I've only respect for those doing their job properly," Kedani replies to the man with a smile and in Tian before switching to Common for the sake of her comrades. "I'd love to see the palace! But whyever are we being invited? We were expecting to have to pay for lodgings at an inn, stables, and so forth!" She laughs. "Not to receive a, quite literal, royal welcome!"

Meanwhile, Lilkazu peeks out of her pouch, just to make sure she has a solid understanding of what's going on.

Going to be using Diplomacy, taking 10 for 34, to make this guy like us over the course of this interaction.

[Daishain]

Aelan dismounts as the guards make it clear they're searching the caravan. He freely cooperates with them, but keeps a watchful eye out for any shenanigans on the part of the guards.

He frowns as the guards are dismissed by the important looking man and his armored escort. He quickly turns the frown into an impassive mask as the emissary greets them like members of the nobility. The guards acting suspiciously could be handled. That was their job. This sort of attention though... this smelled of trouble. This smelled of the deceitful intrigue that had plagued his home, and ultimately led to his banishment. It was too late to do anything about that though, too late even to warn Kedani to be more cautious with her words.

He rests a hand on the pommel of his sword, asking Lament over their link, "What do you think of this? How likely is it that anyone other than agents of our enemy would already know our purpose here?"

[PersonMan]

Unlikely. The graspers would seek to report success after victory - and are now silent. The blade replies.

The man picks himself up slowly, beginning his reply only once he has returned to his feet. "We are humbled and thankful for your merciful temperament," he says, with another bow - a gesture the guards repeat. The man's Common is accented, but the edge has been ground off, hinting at either a great deal of practice or regular usage. "Unfortunately, and with heavy heart, I must report that I know not the mind of our great Prince, only his words."

[Hazuki]

"I see." Kedani smiles brightly. "We'll be happy to join you. Give us some time to get our caravan settled and we will be with you as soon as we can."

[Toliudar]

Nimbus

The windblown dwarf arches an eyebrow at the warmth of their welcome. To be sure, a fine meal and a warm place to **** seems like a fine thing, even to one so accustomed to living out in the open. Especially given the long stretch of their travels. Still, it was hard not to feel suspicions, churlish though that reaction might be.

She glanced around at her companions warily.

"I don't suppose any of you have a magic shower? I'm not sure I'm quite ready for royalty."

Nimbus (born Chalcedony Hammerfist) (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2099548)
Female Neutral (tending G) Dwarf Druid, Level 10, Init 4, HP 89/79, Speed 20
AC 19, Touch 12, Flat-footed 17, CMD 21, Fort 10, Ref 5, Will 15, CMB +9/+4, Base Attack Bonus 7/2
Dagger (1) +9/+4 (1d4+1, 19-20)
MW Hide Armour, Wild Enhancement +1 Heavy Wooden Shield (+4 Armor, +3 Shield, +2 Dex)
Abilities Str 14, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 14, Wis 26, Cha 9
Condition Greater Magic Fang

[Daishain]

Aelan holds up a faintly glowing hand and passes it slowly over his sleeve, cleaning off a bit of dirt before offering the same to Nimbus.

Standard Prestidigitation cleaning at your service. I suspect at least one other person in the group has the cantrip, so we can probably clean up fairly quickly.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus grunts appreciatively at Aelan's ministrations.

"Right. Let's go meet the Prince. Emperor. Whosis."

[Man on Fire]

"When I woke up I was expecting many things, but not that I'll be a guest of a Prince himself today." Celeste confesses to her comrades, scratching Behersha's shadowy form behind the ear to calm the aggressive best and keep it from growling at everyone and everything. "Behersha tells me they' honest but you know, better to keep our guard open and our eyes up....wait." She whispers to Kedani before realizing she confused metaphors.

[PersonMan]

"Very well," the man says, giving another bow. This time, the guards don't join in. "I shall bring word to the Prince. The way to the palace should be clear - however, if aid should be desired, any local shall provide it. Shall any prove disrespectful and wish to refuse aid, merely mentioning the reason for your request should ensure such behavior ceases."

With that said, the man turns, leaving you at the now-open gate. The way to the caravanserai - Ulf knows it, allowing for an easy journey even without pausing to ask for directions - is calm, in terms of events. What lines the streets as the party passes, however, is a far cry from the usual fare of wilderness or nondescript tundra. Ordu-Aganhei is a bustling city, even this late in the season of cross-Crown trade. It's also an odd city; the sides of the street are crowded with vendors hawking unusual foods from carts, performers walking on coals, small shrines which fill the air with an odd, heady smell from the slowly-burning sticks set into them. The street itself is incredibly clean for one in such a busy city, and hundreds of small, colorful flags flutter from the many windows and rooftops above. The air is full of sound. Speech dominates, the Tien language washing over the group and never leaving, though a mishmash of other tongues are present as well, sticking out from the general sound of the city in short bursts.

Before long, the caravan's route leaves the busier streets, approaching the walls from the other side this time. Nestled along it are several similar structures, squat buildings centered on courtyards where a caravan's worth of carts and goods can be gathered within the safety of its walls. There are sufficient, if humble, lodgings for all those not going to the palace, though that raises the question, as the group is assembled by one of the carts, of just who that includes. Ulf and the other caravan aids are content - and several prefer - to simply stay in the caravanserai. Ameiko seems to expect to be coming along, while Zaiobe is equally curious about the caravanserai as she is the palace.

[Daishain]

Aelan speaks lowly for his companions, "Just a thought, it seems they've heard of our coming, and know at least something of our purpose. Who other than agents of our enemy could have passed the word along? Be careful"

The elf encourages Ameiko to come along, after all they could use a guide that knows the place. He stays silent on the question of Zaiobe. He thinks she'd be safer staying behind, but has no desire to limit the freedom of one who has had to deal with so much.

[Hazuki]

"It pains me to say it, but I think staying here would be best," Kedani tells Zaiobe softly. "If something goes wrong here, you're the quickest person and the surest way to let us know."

[Man on Fire]

"Look at this from the bright side." Celeste tries to comfort both Kedani and Zaiobe, not able to bear seeing her friends distraught. "If we're gonna be ambushed or poisoned at least Zaiobe will be safe." She gives an awkward smile, not really realizing how morbid what she just said sounds. If Zaiobe allows it, she gently places her hand at the harpy's arm. "I'd leave Behersha at your side but something tells me I may need them more. Please stay safe and keep everyone in the caravan safe too. Once we're back we will go explore this place together, all three of us." She says, giving a friendly look to Kedani. Behersha, in turn, growls hungrily.

"We should probably prepare, a formal visit like this requires we look our most presentable." Celeste suggests.

[Daishain]

Aelan nods at Celeste's suggestion to prepare, and starts going through his pack, fishing out a grooming kit and a carefully folded tabard. He spends some time fixing his hair, and then the tabard, pale blue slashed with silver, goes over his armor. A few more adjustments, and a little more work with the cleaning cantrip, and the elf nods with satisfaction, "Short of buying noble attire in the markets here, I think that is about as good as I am going to get."

[PersonMan]

Zaiobe looks into Kedani's eyes for a few moments after she speaks, turning away only as Celeste adds her own thoughts. Then I will stay. The harpy replies, her telepathic 'voice' reaching into the minds of all present. Be safe as well. Do not drink any poison or eat anything picked from an am-bush. Zaiobe's face is still, with no sign of whether her thought-wordplay is intentional or a genuine instance of a hole in knowledge left by her amnesia.

After a moment, she turns back to Kedani, smiling. Do not tire yourself out with too much conversation. I will have many questions when you return. She thinks to her, this time only including her in the link, before pulling her in for a hug and kiss on the cheek.

"I'll do my best, but keep in mind this is Hongal, not Minkai," Ameiko says as she readies herself. "So there may still be a few...cultural differences, when it comes to proper manners."

It seems like everyone's set, but before I move us along I want to give folks a day or so to say anything, in the Discord or elsewhere, about doing anything else before moving along, or about specific preparations.

[Hazuki]

"I've been building up my reserves for the entire trip. I will have enough words for at least two days," Kedani replies with a matching smile, then turns to Ameiko. "Have you got your usual defenses? We want to be prepared in case a...food fight breaks out.

[Man on Fire]

"I'm taking Behersha, so there is that." Celeste pets her murderous monster. "We should all look presentable...I think we may be low on supplies for that but if we work together we could make one hell of a good first impression." She then starts looking through their things, trying to find anything that she could use to make their outfits stunning.

[PersonMan]

Ameiko replies positively to Kedani's question, and after a bit more preparation, the group exits the caravanserai, re-emerging into the bustling streets. The colors, smells and sounds are just as vibrant as before, perhaps moreso now that there's no distance provided by the carts or horses. The crowd keeps moving enough to not be a problem, though the way to the palace reveals itself to be longer than anticipated. What seem to be the best streets wind and turn, leading into areas surrounded by high buildings that make navigation more difficult; despite this, though, the group finds their destination before too long. The palace flanks a clearly managed patch of relative wilderness itself surrounding a lake, an island of calm within the busy city as a handful of quiet figures move through, pausing to pick up fallen branches and tending to the colorful flowers that still bloom.

Arriving at the palace gate, the group doesn't even have to speak before the guards bow, the doors open, and servants emerge to lead the way further inside. The building is warm, the walls adorned with carved wooden decorations that turn to numerous wide paintings of landscapes and galloping horses when the winding hallways eventually turn towards a large chamber. The air in the room is warm, and moist - steam rises from a pool of water in the center of the massive chamber, which is at least two hundred feet across, its actual size hidden by gardens of flowering orchids, halfling-sized trees rising from carved stone, shoots of bamboo and a dazzling array of fluttering prayer flags that hang from an unseen ceiling. Herons swoops through the air, accompanied by the sounds of other, hidden birds and the soft notes of music played by similarly-unseen musicians.

A set of stairs leads up to a platform dominated by a massive bed and several large, soft chairs. Surrounding them are collections of curios laid out on large glass tables, screens painted with various scenes and figures, ranging from what look like depictions of mythological events (one shows what seems to be Earthfall) to subjects in states of undress that would scandalize most Avistani courts. Smaller tables of food and drink slowly drift across the platform on the backs of dark green turtles, moving between two finely-dressed individuals each shadowed by an armed, armored guard - one in full, crimson samurai armor and the other in the Avistani plate the group recognizes from the gate. The former stands beside the bed, on which a large smiling man rests, a crown sitting slightly crookedly atop his head as he shifts forwards, layers of lavishly decorated silk covering him in vibrant colors that compete for notice with the half-dozen rings he wears. The other figure is a woman, seated beside where the second guard stands. Where the man's eyes have a slightly unfocused quality, hers are sharp, jumping to the group as she smiles herself, leaning forwards in her seat; unlike the man, she's wearing much more practical clothing. Dark leather, embroidered but otherwise undecorated, black boots, sturdy brown pants - were it not for the gold and gemstones tied around her hair and resting atop her forehead as a circlet, her entire attire could have been less expensive than the jewelry on the man's fingers.

"My Prince! Oh, golden orb of sunlight resting at the black portal of barbarism, sun of wisdom and grace, I announce the arrival of the honored guests!" One servant announces in accented Taldane, before prostrating himself for a few moments, rising, turning, bowing low first to the woman, then the group, then leaving.

"Excellent!" The prince says, rising finally to a seated position. His Taldane is the best of those you've heard so far. "My guests, I am honored to finally welcome you in person, to my humble city of Ordu-Aganhei and my own humble palace. To my subjects, I am Prince Batsaikhar, golden orb of sunlight at the black portal of barbarism - but with such esteemed guests I believe overly formal manners to be unnecessary. Prince shall suffice," he proclaims, voice booming as he pauses to laugh, before turning to the woman. "This is my niece, Narantuyaa, rider of dark blood and admirer of the strange lands across the Crown of the World." The woman nods, smirking before speaking herself.

"Speak of me freely," she says, her accent a mix of that of the others with a distinctly Chelish slant. "There is no dark blood here, and I am of no gilded tongue. Call me Nara, if it please you," she nods again, seeming pleased with herself.

[Hazuki]

Kedani uses her sleeves to change her outfit into something fitting the local fashion - something the local, wealthy merchants might wear rather than anything ostentatious. She doesn't want to seem to make a challenge to the Prince, after all.

As they're led through the palace proper, Kedani considers two things. One is that it's particularly impressive, a great deal of craftsmanship has clearly gone into it, and a lot of wealth. The other is that...both of those things are true and no doubt done at the whims of the man they're about to meet. A leader who surrounds himself with something like this certainly doesn't have a poor opinion of himself, regardless of how he acquired his lavish surroundings.

"It is an honor to meet you, Prince. And you as well, Nara." Kedani bows to both of them. "It is an privilege to be invited to your palace. I am Kedani." She introduces the rest of the group should they not wish to do so themselves. "To what do we owe this honor?

[Daishain]

Aelan stands at attention while Kedani addresses the prince. Most of his attention is spent evaluating those surrounding the prince rather than the noble himself. If they meant harm, chances are it would be a servant or guard to give it away, not the noble himself.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus is a bit gobsmacked by the entire experience of such ostentatious displays of wealth and power, and by the prospect of meeting actual royalty. It's only her inherent dwarfishness that keeps her from instinctively bowing every five seconds.

"Oh, uh, yeah, likewise, both of you."

She immediately has a good vibe from Nara, and steps forward, hesitantly at first, to examine the woman's traveling clothes. And grunts approvingly at their sensible cut and utility.

[Man on Fire]

Celeste, who has spent the most effort among everyone to get her dress as presentable as possible and who has spent the most time trying to compose herself and mentally prepare, running dozens upon dozens of scenarios what could go wrong, is clearly taken aback by the lavish riches on display in the palace. A keen eye and ear can even spot her averting nervously her gaze and whispering to herself "Don't look at naked people.".

in the presence of the Prince and Nara, she decides to make a respectful bow and speak with a humble voice. "My name is Celeste Von Crow and I too am honored to be a subject to your hospitality, Prince and Nara. To be in presence of such great people and in such an...overwhelming place is an unforgettable experience."

[PersonMan]

Both bodyguards are all but motionless - if they notice or return Aelan's attention, their armor hides it well. The Prince nods happily at each introduction, and Narantuyaa seems pleased when Nimbus steps forwards, shifting in her seat to aid in the dwarf's examination.

"To your tales and triumphs!" The Prince says in response to Kedani's question, laughing. "When word reached us, of your successful traversal of the Crown of the World so late in the season, our interest was raised. My own, on account of the doubtlessly numerous perils you must have faced along the way, and Narantuyaa's on account of her great interest in the lands you hail from." He smiles. "We would extend further invitation - stay in the palace, join us for the Great Feasts of Hongal and be honored guests! We shall ensure you find anything you might need to continue your journey, to allow you to relax and enjoy the pleasures of Ordu-Aganhei after such a lengthy, arduous journey."

Narantuyaa is silent, but both Kedani and Nimbus can sense her anticipation.

[Hazuki]

"So your envoy told us! I can't help wondering how you heard of us so quickly - we made for civilization as quickly as we could, only to find that we were outpaced," Kedani says, feigning naivete and confusion. Of course there's something shady going on here, but to challenge him on it would be unwise at best.

[Daishain]

Aelan finally speaks, giving a formal bow. "Thank you, highness, for your hospitality."

[PersonMan]

The Prince laughs. "You make the mistake of all foreigners!" He says, widely grinning. "Just as your lands in the west are full of their own ways and fine traditions, so is Hongal a unique place. While Ordu-Aganhei stands as an exception, our people do not have need of cities. From the moment you set food in our plains and cold steppes, you entered Hongal's civilized lands, and word of late caravans spreads as the Shikra flies." He returns Aelan's bow with a nod. "I and the palace are eager to be your hosts," he says.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus is less boisterously happy at the thought of being constantly surveilled while in this land, but tries to maintain a cheerful face. Well, a less unhappy face. As is so often the case for Nimbus, the more someone is smiling at her, the more she thinks it's a distraction from someone else sneaking up with a club.

"That, uh, sounds great. Look, this is an amazing palace. The craftsmanship, never seen its equal. But I'm eager to see more of the land and the people, you know? Might it be possible tomorrow, to, I don't know, get a tour or something? If that's okay."

[Man on Fire]

"What my friend is, somehow crudely, trying to say is that we would be honored to enjoy more of your company, as well as maybe see more of this incredible and outstanding palace." Celeste chimes in, as even in all her social awkwardness she realizes that Nimbus' bluntness could easily offend a monarch.

[PersonMan]

"Oh, that is quite possible," Narantuyaa says. "It would be my pleasure to show you more of the palace and those within."

"Excellent!" The Prince adds, smile growing wider. "We shall celebrate the Great Feasts, to honor your visit and provide ample opportunity to see the finest of Hongal!" He raises his hands and claps once, and a few moments later servants emerge into the room. "Show our guests to their rooms, and be sure that our guests are welcomed and comfortable!" He commands, and the servants bow low before moving to lead the group out of the chamber, back into the palace halls and through a number of - by the standards of the chamber the group just left - modestly decorated passages before arriving at a series of rooms, one for each of the group. Each room is luxurious by most standards, with a bed large enough to fit three or more human-sized people without worry of overcrowding, cabinets of niceties ranging from Minkaian tea sets to a number of dried fruits, fine wines and other drinks, as well as space to stand or sit, a small table, a desk. The walls sport different paintings, but all are well-made, though the majority are clearly Avistani, both in make and subject matter.

Once the group has been shown their rooms, all clustered around one another, the servants explain in clumsy Taldan (eagerly switching to Tian if the opportunity is presented) that the small decorated bit of silk rope emerging from the wall in each room can be pulled to summon servants if any are required. After this explanation, they slip away, leaving the group relatively alone - there are palace guards in view, at the ends of the hallway, but none pay the group much attention.

And we move along. If there's anything you'd like to ask or do before leaving the meeting chamber, we can run through it in the extra IC on the Discord.

This is a spot for a bit of intraparty discussion/reaction without any visible prying eyes; if you'd like we can move along further, so just mention it if you don't really have anything to say here.

[Daishain]

Aelan looks around his room then to the others, "So, we are here because the Nobles find our journey remarkable. That is certainly better than other possibilities if it is true. Perhaps a few of us should go visit the niece, Nara, and tell her some of the tales she wants to hear in a more personal setting, I get the feeling that she will be forthright in return."

"Please be careful what you say and do, if the guards here are doing their jobs, they will see us as a potential threat, and if we are doing anything we shouldn't, they will take notice."

[Hazuki]

"Of course," Kedani replies. "To discretion and your suggestion. I think I've traveled the furthest, so I'm happy to speak with Nara." As she speaks, she goes through a few basic checks, like scouring the room for any hidden passages, traps, or anything that ought not be there.

Taking 20 to search for a total of...36, 41 for traps ~(With +2 for Lilkazu auto-succeeding on Aid Another included).

[Man on Fire]

"I'll be happy to go with you. Nara seemed very...nice? I guess?" Celeste volunteers.

[Daishain]

Aelan nods, "Sounds good to me. The rest of us can find something to keep us occupied."

[PersonMan]

No traps or similar are found.

With a consensus found, the group splits - Kedani and Celeste going off to find Narantuyaa, the others remaining at the rooms. With Kedani in the lead, the pair are able to get directions easily, moving through the palace's often-empty halls until eventually coming to a set of double doors decorated with golden patterns and flanked by four guards. Before the doors stands a figure in the set of Avistani plate that you saw at the gate and then behind Narantuyaa earlier.

---

Meanwhile, those remaining in the rooms soon find more servants arriving, asking a variety of questions - whether they eat specific types of meat, if they prefer one type of drink over another, and so on. Eventually, one arrives to ask about whether the rooms are to the group's liking, and whether they would want any food or drink to be brought to their "servants" who are not in the palace.

[Daishain]

Aelan waves the others off and turns to look at the rooms, when the servants arrive and start asking him questions, he gives his preference, which mainly amount to "Serve what you're good at."

When the question of bringing something to the "servants" comes up, he pauses and considers, this might be a good way to alleviate any concerns they might have. "They have completed a long journey and deserve something to take the edge off I think. Could you spare a cask of wine for them? If whoever brings it could apprise them of our reception here, and perhaps answer questions they might have as well, I would be grateful. But before that, would you mind sharing what you were told about us? Forgive me, but I am not certain who we are to you and your prince."

[Hazuki]

"Hello. Do you happen to know where Narantuuya is?" Kedani asks the armored individual. "We've come with stories, tales, and an anecdote or two."

[Man on Fire]

"We hoped we could entertain her further with some friendly conversation." Celeste adds, leaning from behind Kedani, trying to put on her nicest smile possible.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus is deeply, deeply uncomfortable with being waited on. She accepts with what grace she can the assignment that she would remain here, but when the servants start to quiz her for her preferences, she responds briefly but asks two more of her own.

"So, uh, what's it like to work here? How long have you worked at the palace? What did your parents do for a living? What's your favourite food? What's the weather usually like this time of year? Where do you sleep? Are you single? Is that uniform comfortable? What's the next big holiday here? Does it get a lot colder at night?"

[PersonMan]

Kedani and Celeste

The figure looks between Kedani and Celeste for a moment, then nods, stepping to the side and opening the door, stepping through in a way that implies the two should follow. The room seems modest, at first; wooden walls left mostly bare, and not much more visible aside from a set of standing room dividers bearing the images of rolling hills and distant mountains. Going beyond them, all modesty vanishes, as glittering gold appears on all sides. Most of it is decoration on chests, though a number of golden figurines and a good deal of jewelry bear the same glimmer. In the center of the room stands Narantuyaa, before her three servants dressed in different dresses. Two seem to be more local, or at least from Tian Xia, while one is clearly an Avistani import; each servant is looking at Narantuyaa as the trio enters, but their attention quickly moves away. The woman herself doesn't turn, staying to inspect the fabric of one sleeve for a moment before turning.

"Oh! Hello," Narantuyaa says, a smile coming to her face. "A pleasing surprise. I did not expect to see more of you so soon!"

Aelan, Nimbus and Leylis

The servant Aelan speaks to nods at his requests, smiling all the while. "You are royal guests," he replies to his question. "To be treated with the greatest amount of respect, and all politeness. I cannot speak for the Prince, golden orb at the black portal of barbarism," those particular words flow off his tongue much more easily than the rest of the generally awkward Taldane he speaks, "...but, for the servants, that is who you are and what we have been told."

Nimbus' questions are met with surprise from the smiling servant, who pauses a moment before replying. "It is a great honor, to have such small distance, between me and the Prince. And his many guests. I have worked here for...seven, and two, years," his smile almost breaks when he comes to the numbers. "My parents are servants in the temple of the God of Walls and Ditches. When I can, I enjoy the buuz very much. They are, bread, but small. With meat inside. I sleep in the place of the servants. I am one, yes. It is. The weather is cold, sometimes wet. In two...weeks, is the celebration of the Khan's...getting onto, the...throne."

[Toliudar]

Nimbus smiles, visibly delighted to be having a kind of conversation with the servant.

"Thank you! And thank you for all of this. And may I say, your grasp of our outsider's language is amazing! I'm Nimbus, by the way. Sorry. And you are? Right! The language. We've just got here, and several of you seem so comfortable with it. Is that some kind of magic, or have you been working super hard at that. I doubt I could do half so well!"

She quickly assembles a plate with a variety of whatever foods have been offered, clearly uncomfortable with the idea of being served. Her mouth is rarely completely empty as the deluge continues.

"Oh my gods! This is amazing. Guys, you've got to try the round green things! They've sort of got this, kick to them that catches the back of your tongue. What's that called? It should have a name. Anyway..."

She turns her attention back to the servant.

"These are spectacular? I know that guests aren't supposed to see the behind the scenes stuff, spoil the elegance, so on so on, but do you think that there's any chance that I could see your kitchens after the reception, maybe meet one of the cooks? If you want to know someone, I always say, look at what they eat."

Well, technically, she had never said that before. But she decided to start saying it now.

[Hazuki]

"Yet here we are, all the same," Kedani says, eyeing the servants. "Although we can leave just as swiftly, if you're in the middle of something?"

[Daishain]

Aelan looks amused as Nimbus tests the servants grasp of the language to the limits. Rather than add to the confusion, he simply asks for a bath to be drawn up, then retires to his room and starts the slow process of taking off his armor.

[PersonMan]

Kedani and Celeste

Narantuyaa shrugs. "It is a matter easily delayed - I am selecting attire for this night's feast," she explains, then smiles. "You are free to assist, if you wish."

Aelan, Nimbus and Leylis

Aelan's request garners a quick reply, and as he withdraws into the room, Lament communicates via their link.

A worthy reception.

"Ah, many thanks," the servant says with a small bow. "The Prince likes to hear it, the language of the western lands. Every season, he will invite guests, that are...originally living there, who have crossed the Crown of the World." Nimbus' next question seems to give him pause, before he nods. "Yes, that can be done."

[Daishain]

In his room, Aelan starts lovingly polishing his family's armor. He'd cleaned it in preparation for the meeting with the prince of course, but properly buffing out the scratches acquired through use takes time.

As the servants come in with the bath water, he asks, "Can you recommend a tailor for a new outfit this evening? Regrettably the closest thing I have to formal wear is my armor here, which seems a bit off to attend a feast in."

[Man on Fire]

"Of course, we'd be honored too." Celeste smiles. "We're absolute masters of selecting, with us no attire will be left unselected, right?" Looks at Kedani, as if expecting her friend to continue with this clear nonsense she just said.

[Hazuki]

"Don't be greedy, Celeste; last time you 'selected' everything you ended up with a stomachache for a week," Kedani replies with a grin. Better to make it seem like an in-joke than portray themselves as fools because of one slip of the tongue.

[Man on Fire]

"Hey, you promised you won't tell anyone!" Celeste responds playfully, faking an angry expression in an over-the-top manner.

[PersonMan]

Kedani and Celeste

Narantuyaa's eyes flash with something as Celeste speaks, but as the exchange between her and Kedani ends, she laughs. "From most I know, that would mean something...different," she says, stepping to the side, leaving her further from the trio of servants. "Which would you consider most fitting?" She asks.

Each servant is dressed in a fine dress; one is clearly Avistani, a brilliant red with accents of sparkling material that add further flashes. The other two are Tien, one in a vibrant green decorated with patterns suggestive of horses and fields, the other a blue that bears wave patterns.

Aelan

"A tailor?" One servant responds. "Yes. The palace's tailor, can bring clothes," he continues with a nod.

[Daishain]

Aelan nods in return, "Very well, if you could pass on a request for him to do so after I've had time to clean off some of this grime. I apologize for any trouble, but I did not exactly expect to be meeting with a personage as esteemed as your prince today or any time soon. If the tailor asks after my preferences, let him know I'll trust his judgement, he knows the court better than I."

[Hazuki]

Kedani makes a point of examining each dress, without seeming like she's ogling the servants wearing them, then looks to their host. "Perhaps you could elucidate us on the meaning of some of these? Cultures and colors tend to mix in odd ways and I'd be so very embarrassed to suggest the colors of morning for an evening, or Winter for Spring..."

[Toliudar]

Nimbus smiles over at her colleagues with what seems like genuine enthusiasm.

"Hey! I'm going on a tour of the servants' area with, uh..."

She turns back to the servant, who still had not supplied his name. She smiles and waits pointedly until he does so.

"With <X> here. Anyone else want to tag along?"

Not really waiting for an answer, Nimbus turns back to the servant. She's clearly bored of being pampered.

"Right! Onwards to the kitchen."

Nimbus doesn't so much follow the servant as pick a likely-looking door and walks through it, repeating this process until he stops her with better directions.

[Man on Fire]

"I must second that request since all the dresses are extraordinarily beautiful in an equal manner. I do not think it is in the realm of possibility to choose between them without more context." Celeste admits, this time trying to go for extra eloquence to mask her previous slip. There is a slight unease to her suddenly, as the selection of dresses reminds her of her own mother and her strict, judgmental attitude as she was choosing whar Celeste would wear on rare social gatherings. And the pressure to not embarrass mother that was then put on the young Fetchling's shoulders.

[Toliudar]

Gentle nudge to stave off oblivion.

[PersonMan]

Eyyyy my internet's back!

Moving ahead, as per the decision in the Discord.

Time passes, with the early evening moving into late. The sky darkens, the group re-gathers, clothes in the local style being made available for those wishing to change, and eventually a new set of servants arrive, ushering the group through the halls of the palace, then outside them. Out in the open, in the light of hundreds of paper lantern lights and a trio of large fires (each attended by a number of quickly-moving servants), sit several grand tables. One sits atop a small platform and already hosts the Prince as well as Narantuyaa; the former wears black robes embellished with golden designs, while the latter is clad in the dress that was eventually selected in her earlier meeting with Celeste and Kedani. On either side of them are free seats, towards which the group is ushered by the servants.

Extending forwards on either side of the platformed table, forming a disconnected U shape, are two other tables, each already filling with guests. Beyond are a number of mats spread on the grass, which house clusters of partially-visible figures. Ahead is a wide, empty area, the earth bare, with a number of targets scattered along it, facing towards the tables. The area is almost as well-lit as the tables themselves, and a half-dozen horses are on one side of it, tended to by several servants in green clothing.

"Ah! Our honored guests!" The Prince laughs as the group arrives, gesturing for you all to come towards the table. "Welcome to the feast!"

Already, food is being placed on the table. Some of it is easily identifiable, some not - the smells of both fill the air, even as a servant Nimbus recognizes as the feast's head cook steps forwards to explain them. Spicy duck heads, ox forehead, turtle casserole, pigeon brains, fried chicken feet, as well as three soups: tiger, dragon and phoenix (Nimbus knows they're made from cat, snake and chicken meat).

[Daishain]

Aelan walks into the room and moves towards his seat with an air of formal confidence. This was not the first noble feast that he had attended, although it was the first where he was an honored guest rather than standing in the background.

He carefully observes the locals for hints on the sort of behavior expected here.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus

Nimbus remains as uncomfortable as ever amongst people who seem not just to like her, but to like her for reasons that had nothing to do with her. If this was what it was like to be, whatsits? Famous. Then she was most happy to have been decidedly un-famous her entire life.

Still...ox face was actually pretty tender, and cat tasted much, much better than she thought it would..

[Hazuki]

Kedani offers a smile to their host as she approaches the table, clad in her specially-magicked clothes just for this occasion, all while silently dreading what the meal might entail. None of the offered dishes sound particularly...edible to her. Or Lilkazu, for that matter, though she'd made certain to feed her azata companion before arriving.

[PersonMan]

Oh, quick note, in case it wasn't clear - this is all happening outside, in the open.

Aelan's inspection is somewhat stymied by a clear divide between how the group is being treated, and how most of the guests interact with each other. It's clear almost immediately that the same sort of reverence that lead to the bowing-and-scraping at the gate was on display here: the Prince and Narantuyaa are the primary targets, but the group receives its fair share of reverent attention as they arrive and settle into place. As things get going, it seems that the other guests all wait for the Prince and Narantuyaa to begin with each part of the meal before eating themselves.

Not long after the first of the food is brought out, the well-lit field ahead comes to life, half a dozen of the Prince's guards mounting the horses previously tended to by the servants. The Prince is visibly, and audibly, pleased, and moments after his laughter begins it spreads through the guests, along with brief exclamations of joy and encouragement in Tien, before the guards bow and begin to move, leading their horses around the field.

"They will be showing Hongal's Three Games," Narantuyaa explains, grinning as she turns away from the field towards the group. "And once they're finished..." she leans in, whispering such that only the closest can hear her over the din of the feast. "You will be asked to match the performance."

[Daishain]

Aelan keeps quiet, sampling a little of most things, but only a little. Some of it is surprisingly good, but he was more preoccupied observing his surroundings.

His eyes widen a bit at the news that they'd be expected to perform here. He whispers back, "What are the rules of this contest?"

[Hazuki]

Aelan has asked the question on Kedani's mind, so she just wonders why they, as guests, will be expected to provide entertainment. As she waits for the answer, she spends her time observing the other guests, mostly to help her intuit how she ought to be acting, but also just in case anyone acts suspiciously. Whether they trust their host or not, some people were paying uncommon attention to their group.

[PersonMan]

"Well, the obvious route would be to do the same," Narantuyaa says, nodding towards the field. "Archery from the horse's back, riding directly - that is, with no saddle - and wrestling, once the field has been cleared," she explains. "Or, you find arts of the west, which you can display in their stead."

Kedani's look around the feast reveals a figure near the edge of one of the tables that seems to be pretending to be looking for some specific morsel, but is actually watching the group. The figure seems human - Kedani sees a beard, but can also tell that it isn't real - seems to quickly recognize that they've been spotted, and slips away into the darkness.

[Daishain]

Aelan rubs his chin, "Unless I miss my guess, I'm the only trained rider in our group, and I would not claim enough skill there to truly impress. If someone is willing to take on the wrestling challenge, perhaps I could offer an alternative to the mounted tricks?"

"I am an expert in the western fencing arts, and I must admit to my own curiosity as to how it stacks up against the training of the Guard here. Perhaps the prince will be interested in watching a duel between me and one of his best? No armor or shields, my rapier against whatever weapon they choose. We can both strive to avoid drawing significant blood or causing serious injury, instead the first to touch the opponent's torso would be declared the victor."

[Toliudar]

Nimbus

Having polished off her plate of cat, Nimbus leans in to listen.

Are we allowed to use magic? Because I'm a pretty good wrestler, in the right circumstances."

She wondered if there were oliphants on this side of the mountains.

[PersonMan]

"A duel is likely to appeal to him," Narantuyaa says with a nod. "Magic? During the match, it would not be. Beforehand..." she shrugs. "It depends on the sort of magic."

[Daishain]

Aelan speaks up again, "Far be it from me to speak for her, but I believe Nimbus was speaking of changing her form to something a little more suited to wrestling than her normal body. Does this court see many shapechangers?"

[Toliudar]

Nimbus

The little dwarf snorts and nods.

"Ayup. Don't get me wrong, 'Though I be but little, I am fierce.' But I'm a whole lot fiercer as a beast."

[Man on Fire]

Celeste is trying to put up her best front to the fact that she is not very used to this kind of entertainment, less alone providing it. She thinks for a moment and then chimes in.

"I may have some way to add to the spectacle. A bit of shadow and a bit of scare. But in a good way." She suggests, winking at her friends as to indicate by a "good way" she means the same creature of hers that is a source of nightmares to anyone it ever meets.

[PersonMan]

"Ah," Narantuyaa says, nodding, seeming to think for a moment. "That is possible. But, unusual." She's quiet a moment more, then shrugs. "The key is to entertain the Prince. Anything which accomplishes that will be accepted. The entirety of the explanations, of what is or is not a replacement of what we are showing..." she waves her hand as if to dismiss the matter. "A duel, and shape-changing wrestling - what was your third idea?" She asks, turning to Celeste with a curious eye.

[Man on Fire]

"A summoning spectacle. I can summon here a very good friend of mine, a creature I guarantee you have not seen before." Celeste explains, before happily starting to go into complicated details about the summoning magic and complicated nature of her eidolon, up to small details that she finds extremely fascinating.

[Toliudar]

Nimbus

Nimbus smiles and rises.

"There you go. A duel, a wrestling match, and a portable zoo. Which do you think that the Prince will want first?"

[Hazuki]

"I think I could contribute by heralding my companions' great feats," Kedani suggests.

[PersonMan]

Narantuyaa turns to Nimbus as she speaks, having previously been listening to Celeste's in-depth explanations in silence. Before she replies, Kedani speaks, and Narantuyaa looks to her, smiling briefly. "Yes," she says, nodding. "Heralds, they are an interesting segment of your western ways. Perhaps you begin, and introduce the duel, followed by the summoning, ending with the wrestling?"

As Narantuyaa speaks, the field ahead is alive with movement, as mounted archers fire on a number of targets; while she remains seated, she gestures to a servant, and as soon as the group wishes they are ushered to the darkened sides of the feast, slipping past the tables and to a small clearing just to the side of the larger, well-lit one. A servant begins to explain what Narantuyaa did earlier, though with much more flattery of the Prince, vanishing as soon as that task is over or another is given. Before long, the Prince's wrestler stands ready next to one of the guards who previously stood near the elevated table, setting aside his armor while sizing up Aelan whenever he seems to be looking elsewhere.

From the feast, the Prince's voice is audible, muffled by distance and the trees keeping the group out of sight. Enough filters through that it's clear, even before the signal from another servant, that it's time - the metaphorical stage is set, and the cue has been given.

Sorry for the delay; since there seems to be a plan I've moved us along. Assuming you go with the order Narantuyaa suggested, this would be Kedani's moment.

[Daishain]

Aelan nods, "Sounds reasonable to me, I shall endeavor to make my part of particular interest."

[Toliudar]

Nimbus nods cheerfully.

"That order sounds fine with me. Aelan, you need someone in your corner or something?"

[Daishain]

Aelan shakes his head, "Its appreciated, but I don't want them thinking there was outside interference here."

[Man on Fire]

Celeste quietly prepares for her part of the performance, trying to keep a positive, confident look. But to a careful eye the signs of her nervousness like shaking fists, attempts to calm down her breath and constant muttering under her breath "It's okay. You can do it. Everything will be all right. You can do it. Yo uare smart, you know what you're doing, you've done it a hundred of times."