A Misdirection of Magicians (IC)

[Erelamar]

(OOC Thread Link)

The Fraal March Up Close

Due to its remoteness, you each have had a long journey through the Sandrinel Alliance into its furthest hinterlands. Each day the looming Titanspire Mountains grew larger until now they dwarf the smaller ranges of the Fraal Marches. You stand at the foot of the great skywalk of Allsatalos which skips from misty peak to misty peak and terminates at the gates of the mighty elven castle.

There were four principal paths you could have taken to reach this distant locale:

1. The High Road through the mountain passes, with trails alongside dizzying drops and bridges suspended hundreds of feet in the sky.
2. The Waterway, where you rode the merchant barges through a great network of steep-walled canyons, only disembarking some few miles back at the last port on the map.
3. The Low Road through the mining valleys where humans and elves delve into the earth in lead-lined suits, ever wary of a deep dwarf raid.
4. Or perhaps you have just landed after a many days flight with Great Eagle Transport, an exclusive company run from the capital of Sandrine employing trained giant birds as mounts; though prohibitively expensive, it is the fastest way to travel. And perhaps a little windburnt, the avian has deposited you safely and is already shrinking into the distance on its way home.

And to your surprise, upon this very day of your arrival, you run into faces at least passingly familiar. You know them to be wizards, and you can guess that banquets are likely not their only reason to be in attendance.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Each of you took a different one of the routes mentioned above. It's first come first serve, so be mindful of whatever someone posted before you. Whatever you choose, it is assumed your travel expenses have already been covered.

[Ripptor]

I'm just glad we're back on the ground. A mental gripe whispers in Megamax's head as she approaches the wizard's congregation. Oh, hush. If we'd fallen, you would just popped from my pocket post-landing, anyway. Megamax smiles to herself. And what a joyous bubble I'd be, a lizard and his meaty splat... I'd have to scrub the guts off your jewels just to get them shiny again. Baubie retorts, his head bobbing out the side of her corset. His dimensional pocket unsealed, the fire lizard takes in his surroundings after holing up for the entirety of the Giant Eagle crossing. For her part, Megamax enjoyed the view and the mountains, soaking it in through her eyepatch despite the wind. What delighted her far more however, was slipping her tail in Sandrine... The capital city is a long way from the Titanspires, and haggling the swiftest passage out gives her a wide headstart on the Red Coven's acquisitions team. While they'll figure out her destination eventually, even Mother would balk at purchasing Eagle passage for the entire outfit. Meagan herself had to barter everything she had "collected" on her path there, leverage her local connection at the wizard's library for same-day transport, and still sweet talk the stablemaster into the distant journey. Pulling her hair back into place beneath her circlet, Meagan's stone cloak flaps in the wind as she approaches the base of the Skywalk. Smiling at the many faces of the crowd she didn't recognize, suddenly there were two faces in particular that caught her attention... Gripping her amethyst buckler, she slowly makes her way through the greater banquet crowd towards the other Tracery seekers she remembers.

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra

It had been an invigorating few days' travel along the low road, with an opportunity to see the new works in some of the mines, and to seek out possible new sources for some of the more unusual gems that her research involved. Tourmalines had proven especially troublesome to find in any quantity, and a promising thread had opened up in Vallenden. A rumour related to an old elven cache in Xellias had turned out to be a complete fabrication, though, much to her frustration. At least she'd managed to pick up a small anvil, cheap, and added it to her collection of oddities.

At least it had been a comfortable trip. In preparation for this journey, Clytemnestra had cajoled her husband, Vimilion, into sharing the Phantom Steed spell, and she was utterly delighted by this new form of travel. The smooth, rapid movement was a marked contrast to the eternal jouncing of horseback or the vertiginous listing of sea vessels.

It was hard not to be impressed by the location of Alsatalos, and the view from the Skywalk. She had paused, at the foot of the walk, to refresh her clothes and clean herself after a long morning on the road, and was glad she had done so. For she watched a giant eagle streak away, apparently having deposited an important and august guest at the foot of the skyway ahead of her. As she quickly overtook the figure on her steed, Clytemnestra noted devil-woman talking to an overweight baby dragon. Fascinating. Clearly also guests for the wedding, and probably bride side, given Emalia's eclectic tastes in friends. Well, best to make acquaintance.

Clytemnestra waited until her steed was about 30 feet behind Megamax when she called out a greeting.

"Good afternoon!"

The elf woman pulled up alongside the pair, touching two fingers to her temple in greeting.

"Clytemnestra Dekatos, at your service."

She glanced around at the vista of the skywalk.

"Extraordinary, is it not?"

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[D&DPrinceTandem]

Kotoba sat upon the bow of a relatively large, leaning his acing back against the inner wall. He had taken his back and turned it in reverse, as Trinity had awoken not an hour earlier. There ritual storytelling had drawn a small and young crowd, consisting of a halfling, twin half-elves, and a half-orc, all children, and all eagerly in sway of there tale being told. The tale of the day was a story of two lovers, forbidden from one another, a war divides there people...something something, through the mountain.. something something, secret tunnel. There story finishes with a radiance of golden silver light emanating from the bag the ship pulls to a stop and the crowds of folk begin to exit the barge. Kotoba spends waits a moment before getting off, in the mean time he takes his boots of and casts a simple prestidigitation to clean them and continues to let it clean the rest of his clothes as well as Trinity's. He massages his feet, which had began to ache again after finally gettin a rest from his land-bound travels and not wanting to embark agains so soon. "So Koto, now we are but a few bends from Elven Castle, oh but there is such great stories to be heard here to sure! I wonder what interesting folk will be here so too..." Trinity drones on. Kotoba smiles at this, not at her curiosity, but at her strength, he knows the curse is eating at her still but even with it she is capable of expressing joy still. He ruffles her hair which stops her mid sentence, she smiles back. "Let us be on our way little one, we wouldn't want to miss out on another great story" he croaks through his grin. She dips back into the bag and he lifts it upon his back, it seems to grow heavier by the day but that matters not to Kotoba. The wooden from fits snuggle against his back and he secures the strap around his waist to remove stress from his shoulders. As he leaves this ship Trinity pops her head out again, Kotoba half turns his head back and says "Why don't you read me a story while I walk." As the Canyons sinks below the horizon and the mountains grow near Kotoba embraces the essence of the grand tale teller, he watches as carriage after carriage pass by. He is in no hurry, with Trinity's voice and the sheer grandiosity of the landscape around him he almost forgets why he is even there in the first place. As they approach the Skywalk the sudden realization of his foreign nature sets in, the ritualistic and traditional grabs of the south lands are...less then appealing by comparison to the eloquent and regal colors common of the wizards of these northern lands. He lowers his hood reflexively, in an attempt as to not be seen as secretive. Familiar faces begin forming in the crows, seeking the intellectual treasures of the land for sure. He cautiously approaches two in particular. Trinity, oblivious to her situation and surprise by the rare appearance of Koto's hair, long lock-ful and brown, she decides to make good use of the opportunity and begins to braid his hair. Only breaking from it to render there homeland greeting, placing their right hand atop their sternum, returning to her newfound activity with a whistle.

[Erelamar]

As you three magicians are drawn toward one another, you each begin to notice something odd. Of all the faces in the crowd, yours are the only ones you recognize. Each of the other mingling faces are nobles surely, but they lack a certain flare common to the core-lands of the Sandrinel Alliance or the Crystal City of Lagria—not at all like the colorful people you are accustomed to seeing gathered around Lady Emalia. If you had to guess, this group of humans and elves, most getting on in years, are merely local lords and ladies. Perhaps they own valley manors, or profitable shipping routes along the Waterways, or a chain of mines down along the Low Road. But of them all you have a growing suspicion none is particularly exceptional, which is to say like yourselves.

It may just be that the three of you, out of the more than two dozen standing at the foot of the Skywalk, are the only true wizards in attendance. And the rest are just common... aristocrats?

[Ripptor]

At Clytemnestra's note, Baubie's peeking head looks around at the skyline view, now safe and sound on the ground. Megamax shrugs, recently jaded from the bird's eye view on the flight over. Speaking aloud to the others this time, "It's acceptable. One hopes the view from the castle proper captures some of the beauty of the Spires from above." Walking along the righthand side the steed, Megamax quietly keeps her buckler between the two. Not raised, just ... Ready. Looking around at the rest of the congregation, she suddenly recognizes their stature in the surrounding guests... they appear to be the only Mages in a sea of the Talentless. Minor house insignias, mundane trappings, and sidelong glances in their direction further paint the divide further. Though, if she didn't already know better, Kotoba would easily be mistaken for the rabble in the crowd. "Come, let us Mages lead the way to the gates. We mustn't keep Lady waiting on the day of her funereal celebration. There is much to drink, and so little light of day!" Megamax wonders how her life had been, betrothed to a farlands noble... Fully expecting Emalia to have chafed beneath what she's been raised to believe such a life would entail. This banquet must surely represent the return at last of her personal freedom. Thinking on her own path to personal freedom, she wonders silently if the others recall their long-past discussions of the Tracery rumors at University... Perhaps they can help her, if she broaches the subject correctly?

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra

Clytemnestra looks more closely at the demon-woman. How many could there be?

"Ah! It's...Meagan, yes? I believe we had Abjurations together once upon a time."

She turns to introduce herself to Kotaba and Trinity.

"Good morning. My name is Clytemnestra Dekatos. I'm assuming you're both on your way to the wedding together. As Miss, ah, Maximus - Maximus? Am I remembering correctly - has said, we shall endeavour to celebrate this new chapter in the life of a, a colleague. Will you accompany us?"

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Ripptor]

Meagan winces at the woman's mention of her name ... There goes any hope that the pair had gotten so old as to forget her. Being an unforgettable presence has its perks, mind you, but Megamax would prefer to avoid the gaze and ire of the Necromantic... A shiver runs down her spine despite her rigid composure. "Why yes, my manners escape me. I am Meagan, the High Daughter Maximus of the Red Coven. It's been some time, though I bet I could still disassemble any of that old man's barriers on my first try!" Megamax visibly draws herself back upwards, back to her usual form in posture and boasting. Dismissive Abjuration was one of the few things her teachers actively praised her for, rather than her desires to burn down the college halls more efficiently. If they had their way she'd be a dedicated Abjurer, stalking the dusty halls and teaching wizards twice her age how to dissolve a Force Screen properly. No, thank you. Hearing Clytemnestra's rumors of another marriage, even Meagan is taken aback. "Has Lady been to bold as to claim another already? She will never ceases to amaze." From her pocket a mental addition, Bold the hand that takes another, when the last is not yet Cold. Be prepared for your political opportunities here, Meagan. Megamax manages not to roll her eyes out loud.

[Erelamar]

Four footmen descend the Skywalk, coming to gather the crowd. They draw ever nearer, and just as you thought them in range to begin beckoning the nobles and yourselves forward, you hear a thunder of hooves. Down from the lofty trail of the High Road comes a pretty, dappled steed, an Elvenbred riding horse. And upon it, a human rider, clad in rich furs and velvet.

The horse comes to a near-instant stop at the rear of the larger group. There is an odd multitude of expressions emitted from the gathered nobles: gasps of surprise, sighs of wonder, some few groans, and perhaps if you were paying very good attention, a tongue-click of vexation.

The rider, a middle-aged human nobleman, dismounts with youthful skill. He absently hands the reins of his beautiful mount to another waiting noble who—gasping at the impropriety—takes them as would any common servant; his face falling flat as the nobleman walks off into the crowd without care.

This newcomer surveils the large party with a look of smug satisfaction... that is until his sight lands on the three of you. His expression falls blank, a neutralness you've ghastly seen before except on the faces of a construct. His eyes flit between Megamax and Kotoba but they linger longer still on Clytemnestra. It all happens in an instant though, as there is a sharp trumpet blow and the footmen have reached the beginnings of the Skywalk, and about-face, they begin to march your gathering up to the Castle Allsatalos.

The new nobleman's expression flares into a friendly smile and he approaches you as the crowd surges forward. "Happy times again it must be to see exotic faces attending one of Lady Emalia's little parties! I am Orbal, Duke of Bruckwald, and who might you be, friends?" As he falls in beside your little troupe now making your way along the airy bridge towards the elven castle, the bejeweled rapier at Duke Orbal's hip catches the fading sunlight in rhythmic flashes of color.

[D&DPrinceTandem]

Addressing all parties involved, "I am Kotoba-Ryu, Initiate wordsmith of The Grand Raconteur and this here is", Kotoba takes a deep breath as so begin to spout off a "Trinity, speaker of the Grand Raconteur. All other formalities are too foreign to be understood." Trinity interrupts, presenting a dismissive wave to Kotoba's questioning look. Having finished a little under half of Kotoba's hair into braids she momentarily considers her handywork before turning to the nobleman and presenting a genuine smile, "Why hello Sir Orbal, its a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. Me and my mentor are collectors of stories and would love to here the story that brought such a influential individual from the Lands of Bruckwald to Lady Marie's party, as well as funeral celebration and wedding it would seem...idk i'm just here for the stories." Meanwhile Kotoba addresses Clytemnestra and Meagan, "greetings, I apologize for my slow response, my mind doesn't function as fast as it used to, but yes we would gladly accompany the two of you, along with our new friend here." Spoiler: OOC Show Although she has sworn off riches Trinity normally handles conversations with the more regal of folk as where as other clergies, whilst Kotoba converses with the more studious folk (mainly wizards but other intellectual scholars as well). Both of them equally speak to the masses that don't fall under these catagories.

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra

Clytemnestra arches an eyebrow as Count Orbal approaches. She had had her fill of blustery nobles in her years, but there seemed to be some hope that this one had at least a touch of substance underneath the bland charm. She did not dismount her shadowy steed as he approached, but ducked her head respectfully as he greeted them. It was only when he spoke of exotic faces that she faltered a bit, her left hand rising instinctively, two fingers tracing delicately the network of scars that vanished up into her hairline. A decade ago, she would have reflexively used her magics to conceal the marks, but she was beyond that now. Now, they were a reminder to herself of everything she had been, and everything that she was. Perhaps they were even a kind of warning to others. This was a survivor.

"My dear count, you honour us beyond deserving. My name is Clytemnestra Dekatos, late of White Harbour. It will give me great -"

She turns nouns over in her mind like precious gems. What would it mean to her, to see Emalia married off?

"- pleasure to join the party."

As the group begins walking up the magnificent road, Clytemnestra drifts up alongside.

"If you don't mind me asking, Duke Orbal, what drew you to the four of us in particular? I mean, Miss Maximus is most charming, of course."

She smiled and arched an eyebrow at the duke, letting him know that she spoke only in jest.

"Let me guess. You're scouting potential brides for your son, and it's always been your dream to have a wizard in the family."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Knowledge local to know something more about Orbal: (1d20+7)[27] or an untrained Nobility check: (1d20+6)[21]

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Erelamar]

At Trinity's words, the Duke crooks an eyebrow, and his words come fast, "Wedding? Funeral? The next two evenings are just one of Lady Emalia's banquets. She's been having them every fortnight since her husband, the late elf lord, may he rest in peace, passed." He rubs his smooth chin in thought, and continues, "Of course that was fifteen months ago. I do suppose for all its beauty, Allsatalos can be rather lifeless and dull being so remote as it is... A cheery affair every once in a while can soothe a sad heart. I too know similar grief and do what I can to comfort the Lady. As such I try to make it to as many of these parties as I can—"

"All of them!" calls the disgruntled noble from the back of the crowd leading Orbal's horse up the Skywalk. There are mild chuckles throughout the greater group but it quickly abates and they return to their chit-chat and gossip.

You are perhaps a quarter of the way along the Skywalk, wisps of mist pass between you, frosty cold. And every once in a while a great buffet of wind causes you to take the railing to keep yourself afoot.

Duke Orbal's smile resumes. "Well, I haven't been keeping track."

At Clytemnestra's introduction, the Duke nods knowingly. Though her knowledge of him, his son, causes him to chuckle as if at some private joke. Before he can be asked about it, he diverts, "I'm afraid my son takes too much after his old man and is something of a rake. He'll take no advice from me in matters of matrimony. The thought of a wizard in the family is nice of course, but Allsatalos is the last place I would come looking for one—there are no wizards in Allsatalos.

"As for why I came up to you, it's because, in the past year or so, I can't remember seeing a new face at one of Lady Emalia's banquets."

[Ripptor]

Megamax recognizes the Duke of Bruckwald looking them over, and tilts her head at the attempt at lavish decorum. As expected, their reputation for being all pomp and no substance appears intact. An expensive front covering a decaying nobility wont to sell itself off as it dwindles into nothingness. Mother would hvae such things to say, if she were here... Megan's smile doesn't falter as the Duke approaches them with high flattery, and she quietly enjoys Clytemnestra's recoil at the mention of her beauty. Still self-conscious, despite her beauty? Something to play her for, later... Meagan is used to flattery, and simply smiles as the man ingratiates himself. What she was not prepared for was Clytemnestra's deflection onto Meagan herself, and sudden discussion of potential marriage partners... Her head snaps with surprise at the Duke, before he laughs it off. Listening to the Duke, she considers if this man may be a decent drinking fellow after all, making it a priority to attend each of Lady's many parties. Of course, he could just be playing an angle to save his dying duchy, so one must be careful. Meagan wonders aloud at Orbal's correction on the banquet ahead. "Fifteen months ago? Word travels slowly from these far reaches, then..." Shrugging it off, she continues, "It's been a matter of years since I've last seen Lady Emalia, we were acquainted once long ago. I am Meagan, the High Daughter Maximus of the Red Coven. I look forward to reuniting with her soon, and celebrate her station." Giving Duke Orbal a sweet sidelong smile, Megamax plies her own questions. "You seem like good banquet company, if your son takes after you I imagine he should be along soon enough? What man of excitement could miss one of Lady's banquets?" As the wind blows, she leans into her unseen servant for support... Despite what the Ungifted may think seeing her walk arm-in-arm with thin air.

Spoiler: OoC

Show

Lets see if we can get any interesting information about the Duke and his son...

Throughout the conversation + walk, Meagan will take 10 for Diplomacy 27 to try and move the Duke from Indifferent to Helpful, to see if she can't get some advise/advocacy from him later on, should they need it... Or just honest information.

On the note of honest information, she'll also take 10 for Sense Motive 20 on a Hunch while they talk, for a gut assessment of when he's being honest / dodgy.

(Social Intuition allows her to Take 10 on the Diplo/Sense checks, but LMK if you'd rather I roll them!)

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra

Clytemnestra conceals the double take she mentally completes when Duke Orbal's comments seem to suggest that years have gone by since Emalia's invitation had first arrived. Had she misunderstood?

Her mind raced as she rode along beside the others. A time shift? Was Orbal insane? Had Emalia simply lied in her invitation? Meaghan didn't seem fazed by any of this, so Clytemnestra opts to simply remain silent and focus on the ride.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Erelamar]

Duke Orbal grins at Megamax' suggestion. "Oh, no. I wouldn't let my son within a hundred leagues of Allsatalos," and he briefly glances up at Clytemnestra astride her spectral steed, before returning his attention Megamax, "Besides, he's tied up on a hunting trip this weekend, conveniently." He emits a low chuckle.

The small talk continues as the whole of your group follows the footmen to the yawning gates of the elven castle. The smooth, vibrant pinks and purples which caught and reflected the sunlight among the frosty mists are far darker and stonier up close. Perhaps, it is merely the shadow of the clouds.

You dismount and—if necessary—attendants take the steeds and lead them around the gate and eastern wall. With the blast of four horns, the footmen part and the aristocrats and magicians are ushered into a mighty foyer of glittering marble. A high balcony rings the whole of the room. A small fleet of servants liveried with the elf lord's swan sigil waits at the far side of the chamber before a grand archway into the castle's first hall—two massive staircases within climbing up out of sight.

"Ah, here's the imperious old crane, now," whispers Orbal to Megamax.

High up on the balcony, a figure flanked by guards comes into view. He is an elf, tall, pale as the moon with long, stark white hair and eyes like black pits. This person too wears the retainer's livery of Allsatalos but anyone can recognize it as being of a much loftier rank.

The white elf begins a flat, droning monologue, "Greetings, honored guests. We again welcome you to Castle Allsatalos. Lady Emalia thanks you for your kind attendance. She will join you this evening during cocktails before dinner..."

"She wants to make an entrance," again, Orbal whispers to Megamax.

"And for now these servants will direct you to your bed chambers to rest and refresh yourselves, or you may—" His voice catches in his throat. The white elf's slow survey of the party standing far below him finally comes to rest on the three magicians. His jaw rolls around like he wants to give an order but doesn't, and with clenched teeth, he continues, "Or you may, if you are feeling chilled from the Skywalk, enjoy a refreshment of hot brandied chocolate and a fire in the chamber to your left. Cocktails will begin at Six."

The white elf almost turns to leave then snaps back, "One final thing, just a gentle reminder: besides your guest suites and those corridors between them and the south wing, no one is to wander the castle unescorted. Locked doors are locked for a reason. Allsatalos is old, and has many memories." Though looking as if he wants to say more, he turns and withdraws from view.

"Huh. Weird..." says the Duke. "Well, until tonight, then." He waves at the four of you over his shoulder as he practically snatches up a servant to take him to his guest room.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Each of you recognizes the white elf as a snow elf. They are known to be reclusive and unpleasant, and they all hail from their frozen city beyond the Titanspine Mountains.

Spoiler: Clytemnestra and Megamax

Show

Both of you spot a figure lurking behind a tall statue near a corridor leading off the entrance foyer to the east (on your right side as you walked in). The spot is underneath and out of sight of where the white elf was standing on the balcony above. You recognize the old human as Spycrist, Lady Emalia's longtime cohort.

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra

As they arrive at the castle, Clytemnestra slides off of her smoke horse, and it becomes increasingly clear why she uses it. The staff in her hand plants firmly on the ground, and she leans heavily on it whenever not taking a step. Her legs are stiff and do not seem to bend as well as you might expect from a relatively young elf.

As they are greeted by the snow elf, she nods her understanding, and turns to Duke Orbal.

"Again, my thanks, My Lord. You have done us a great courtesy with your company, and I will look forward to further conversation this evening."

Before a servant can come to collect her to see her to her room, Clytemnestra makes her way carefully over to the statuary by the entrance, pretending to give the the line and form of the statue due consideration, when any fool could see that it was neoconclavist claptrap, a sentimental harking back to a lost time when what her people needed right now was the essence, the spirit of that time.

She stopped next to that statue and murmured to the figure concealed behind it. "And good afternoon to you, Spycrist. Your loyalty does you credit, and congratulations on not choking on the sheer decorum of this place. How've you been?"

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Erelamar]

Clytemnestra

The nobles shuffle to-and-fro, wandering into the heated parlor to the west and following their guides into the grand reception hall and up the mighty stairs into the bowels of the castle and their waiting guest suites. Porters with freshly unloaded luggage pass through the grand foyer with ecstatic haste. With all the hustle and bustle, Clytemnestra and Spycrist standing beside the neoconclavist statue are like a little pocket of private calm.

To Clytemnestra's eyes, Spycrist is little changed: his tan has softened, but he is gnarlier than ever, like a small old tree. Even for a human, it's hard to imagine he was ever young. He wears the same beaten leathers—perhaps a little cleaner these days—but now with a gilded brooch with the swan insignia of Allsatalos. Really, the only thing missing is his dented battleaxe slung across his back.

Emalia's cohort listens to Clytemnestra, but his eyes follow the Duke until he has disappeared from sight. Then he speaks, "Oh, Nessie, there're not enough hours in the day." Spycrist rubs his bald, liver-spotted head.

"Not good, not good. Well, good enough when the elf lord was living but that's a done thing now. Those were happy times, for the most part... Och, sorry, Nessie. Maybe, you don't want to be hearing that."

He stretches and peers up at the balcony above. "Come, come. If'n that bastard-steward's not still up there, he'll be down soon to take'a look at the new faces. I've got things to tell ya..."

Spycrist moves to scuttle down the eastern corridor but snaps straight up as if struck with sudden thought. The old retainer turns back, like second nature, and offers Clytemnestra his arm to help her along.

[Ripptor]

Meagan smiles throughout the welcome ceremony, listening to the Duke and grinning at his commentary. One day she will meet this son of his. Meagan found herself looking forward to Lady's entrance, until the Old Crane seemed to personally tell her not to go exploring. Curious... She waves as the Duke takes his leave to his quarters, but she's in no rush that way. Someone will take her to a room tonight, eventually. For now, the brandied hot chocolate sounds far more important! Catching Spycrist at the corner of her eye, she sends him a mental greeting as Clytemnestra walks over his way. Hey gramps, it's Megamax! Join me for some drinks! He already knows she's a telepath anyway, so no secrets lost there... It'll be nice to be able to "speak" freely again, with someone besides Baubie.

Spoiler: OoC

Show

Barring Spycrist mentally responding with a "Come here!" or something more intriguing, Meagan will make her way to the hot chocolate bar and start socializing! Of course, if there's something more interesting that way, she'll head on over

If she does hit up the bar, she'll start socializing, collecting general information and good will:
Gather Information: 16
Diplomacy: 27

If things get fun, she's known to sing, and perform some 'bar tricks' and try to convince people it is (or isn't) magic

Perform(Sing): (1d20+8)[19]
Perform(Legerdemain): (1d20+19)[37]

EDIT: Oh, and she'll watch her drinks... If she doesn't see someone pour it for her, she'll either not drink it or subtle-cast a Detect Poison on it. You can never be too careful at the bar!

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra
Chatting with Spycrist

Clytemnestra, oblivious to Meagan's telepathic invitation, smiles sadly.

"Nessie. I haven't heard that name in...well, it seems like a lifetime. When I heard about her situation here, it sounded like Emalia had made the same choice I did: stability and respectability over risk and excitement. But if things have gone significantly worse for the two of you here, I'd like to know more, and help if I can. Should we grab a bottle of the brandy, ditch this party and head up to my room? Or do you have duties to perform?"

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Erelamar]

Clytemnestra (and possibly Megamax)

Spycrist waves, somehow subtly and emphatically all at once, for Megamax to follow them and leads Nessie down the western corridor.

At the mention of brandy, the bald-headed human smiles and halfway withdraws a golden flask from his breast pocket. It's a far cry nicer than the old, tarnished iron one he'd carried around for years.

He agrees to Clytemnestra's suggestion, "Yeah, yeah. Just leading a guest to their room, that makes sense if we get asked. Though I'd like it if'n we didn't run into nobody."

Together, you pass a great series of northern windows which look out upon the eastern garden open to the blue sky above. It's like an impressionist's dream: black trees gracefully curved, hanging wisteria, a small black pond dotted with lotuses, a stream cascading down smooth stones with obligatory tiny, cute bridge, and flawless dark green grass. At every side, the walls of Allsatalos rise up around it. How the garden survives at these altitudes hints at magic. On the south wall though, you pass a single half-opened door of a guard station. More than a dozen armored men sit around a table talking, their halberds lined up against the far wall.

All the while, Spycrist is speaking, "I think she's deeply unhappy. She's spending gold like a drunken sailor. All these parties, week in and week out. She's increased every servant's salary half a dozen times, just because it gives her a moment's happiness to see the look on their faces. She orders art, clothes, jewelry from the city and has it flown in on those giant eagles so she can have it right quick, but a lot just sits around in shipping crates because she's already lost interest. And these parties, och, these parties, you've never seen such a thing, well you will..."

You enter a portrait gallery, long-dead elves staring down at you. They display such a variety of fashions, that the line must reach far back into the earliest ages of Eldwizand. Spycrist continues to a small, side door that opens to expose a tight spiral staircase leading up. The climb is not an especially pleasant one for Clytemnestra, but fortunately, the old retainer gets off at only the second story landing. You don't want to think about how much higher these stairs could even reach!

"And that steward-bastard, Father Neomund, the snow elf, just keeps letting her do it. He's not trying to stop her or even slow her, at all. Isn't that supposed to be his job? Nessie, she bought a Lagrian Skyship just like the two of you talked about way back when. He arranged it! Had it flown here and everything. Do you remember, do you remember the price tag on one of them things? I think she means to bankrupt this castle, and I think that bastard-steward means to help her. She's doing it because she's depressed, but his reasons I cannot even figure..."

The first second-story chamber you enter is like a hothouse, a great glass ceiling above open to the sun, some of the tall towers of Allsatalos looming over your heads. Long rows of waist-high tables hold tiny potted plants. Herbs of every variety and flowers of tragic beauty fill the room with a thick, though not unpleasant, earthy smell. The northern windows here also look down over the wisteria garden.

Spycrist is not done yet though, he moves to a door in the western wall and cracks it open to peek in, and shuts it, again. "Wait here a minute until that snow elf is down in the foyer then we'll cross over to the west wing where your room'll be. Yeah, old Spycrist outsmarted you, steward!" He pulls out the flask and offers it to you. "It's the good stuff," he says, then continues,

"What's even worse, though is that old shark swimming 'round her. Every party: always here, I tell ya. And she likes him. They talk long into the nights, loooong. Nessie, I think she's told him everything."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Well, that rambled on a little longer than I expected...

And the price of a Lagrian Skyship is around 400,000 gp.

[Ripptor]

At Spycrist's mental urging, Megamax takes a quick wistful glance at the hot cocoa clubroom before walking off in the general direction of the pair, catching up as the old man waits for some privacy for his rambling. Meagan listens closely while admiring the gardens and tapestries, then the beautiful greenhouse on the second floor. Extravagant parties and endless purchases sound just like Lady to Meagan, and pretty perfect to herself as well... But Spycrist would know if Lady is unhappy. She gladly shares the old man's flask, slowly downing a fill as they wait. "Elves live a long time... It may be the late lord and himself had a falling out centuries ago, and he's enjoying watching the house coffers dry?" The comment on the 'shark' gave her pause though. "By shark, you mean Duke Orbal? He certainly seems the charismatic contender... I was hoping to enjoy some time with him myself, and see what he's hiding beneath that smile of his." Looking to Clytemnestra, "Do you have some kind of connection with the Duke? Nessie?" Meagan tries the adorable nickname across her tongue, just to pry for some fun.

Spoiler: OoC

Show

All that talk of over-expensive fineries is going to make Meagan's hand itch, but she's going to need to feel *really* sure that Lady won't miss something before she takes anything from her outright!

[Erelamar]

Clytemnestra and Megamax

"Aye, Meagan. Orbal, that's his name, alright." At Megamax's further questions, Spycrist merely glances Clytemnestra's way without a word, then goes again to crack open the western door and peek into the next chamber.

Kirsch and Victor

However you reached this distant realm, whether traveling in comfort aboard merchant barges or speedily by Great Eagle Transport, or slogging through the Low Road and industrial air of the mining towns, or faced the bluster of the High Road among the mountain passes, you have reached your destination. The Skywalk to Allsatalos lies before you. Footmen in the swan sigil livery march in unison down the bridge to escort you the long walk to the castle's gates.

But you do not wait alone. You stand with a half-dozen human and elven nobles and their retainers, provincial locals if your guess it right. At first glance though, one stands out. A lizardfolk grandee waits with his baggage train, and there is a low murmur about him shared between the other guests. There is a magician's air about him. Whether he is alone among this group in such pursuits, remains to be seen...

Spoiler: OOC

Show

While I'm pretty sure how Kirsch would present himself here, I'm less confident about Victor. So, Geekisthenewsexy, be sure to include just how obvious you want Victor to be as a magician, or a magical person, or perhaps how aristocratic (does he present himself as a working mage or a high-born arcanist? etc), at least in the present circumstances.

[Metastachydium]

Make way, gentle crowd! His Lordship Kirsch son of Kirsch of Likhten's Line is coming through! the young human woman moving before the mounted lizard intones, much to the satisfaction of her master. Kirsch sits erect in the saddle, acknowledging the more important looking nobles around with curt nods, a wide, serene smile on his face. It is good to see faces other than Innte's and Harel's at long last. Taking the HIgh Road sounded like a good idea at the time, but the winds and the rocks and ever more winds and ever more rocks quickly soured his mood. No matter, though. He has arrived, and in time as it would seem.
Reaching the skywalk, Kirsch dismounts with a single, elegant, fluid motion and straightens his back, leaning on his walking stick, his bright green scales glistening brilliantly. Why, what a lovely vista we have here! he says to noone in particular, while beckoning to a liveried servant to take over his pony. Yes, My Lord. replies the human male carrying most of his baggage, but Kirsch ignores him for now. I was somewhat worried that we shall be late. My servants are fine specimens, but they walk at a regrettably slow pace. he adds, absent-mindedly inspecting the claw on his left thumb. We are sorry, My Lord. the other two say almost in unison. Hush. the nobleman answers, raising his right hand, the blazing golden sun surrounded by a circle of eight stars, the coat-of-arms of Likhten's Line flashing on the stone of his signet ring. And let us move, perhaps. Lead on, if you may. he addresses another servant of Allsatalos, ready to make his entrée.

[Geeksthenewsexy]

A handsome and well-manicured human male of about six and a half feet tall with an athletic build stands casually as if mingling with those around him, flashing a pearly-white smile to anyone he passes. Except he doesn't seem to actually do any mingling beyond a smile or nod and a "Victor Lustig. Charmed, I'm sure." Hands in the pockets of his well-tailored traveler's outfit cut in the latest style and a jaunty befeathered hat, he seems to be the peak example of the arrogant and self-absorbed aristocracy... Until he trips over his own feet and falls flat on his face in the midst of the crowd.

The jaunty hat falls from his head, and the man's appearance changes drastically. Shorter by about a foot, now looking more gaunt than athletic, and his clothing no longer looking at all fashionable is dust-speckled and threadbare - even the jaunty hat looks worn and frayed. Snatching at the hat frantically, he slams it back into his now balding head as he clambers to his feet. After a brief moment, his previous (and much more handsome) appearance is back once more, and he visibly takes a deep breath with his eyes closed as if to calm himself. Nodding slightly, he opens his eyes and resumes his casual-seeming countenance... though it seems remarkably more rigid than before, eyes a bit wider and with far less smiling.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

TL/DR: Handsome prince charming man! *Hat of disguise falls off* Balding middle-aged has-been. *Put hat back on* Nothing to see here, move along, move along...

Note: My wife (who is from Germany) tells me that 'Lustig' actually translates to 'Funny'. And so the bumbling charlatan persona was born.

[Erelamar]

Kirsch and Victor

There is a momentary gasp at Victor's mishap, then a small chuckle before a human noblewoman exclaims, "The Lady's entertainment starts before we even enter the castle this time!" This is followed with more laughter which breaks into a round of applause by the rest of the aristocrats.

The footmen of Allsatalos arrive, about-face, and begin the march back up the Skywalk. Kirsch, who has made his way to the head of the column, stands beside an elven lady bearing a kindly smile. "Greetings to you, Lord Kirsch," she says in flawless draconic. "I am Nadjiel of Spyre. I hope our chill climate does not discomfort you too badly. I can honestly say, I don't believe I've ever seen a lizardfolk at Allsatalos before. Where you perhaps, just in the neighborhood and heard about our little gatherings?"

As the group begins to advance towards the castle's gates. The same noblewoman who cut through the awkwardness earlier falls into step near Victor. She bears a mischievous, toothy grin which is somehow strangely attractive... at least on her. The cloying scent of perfume does not quite manage to cover the strong smell of wine she emits. "Go ahead," she says to Victor. "Show us another trick then..."

[D&DPrinceTandem]

Kotoba waves over a servant "I have something to do first but once i am finished a guide to logging will be much appreciated", and begins to unstrap his bag at the same time uttering arcane words of message and whispers. Trinity, knowing the meaning behind the syllables, smiles joyfully and hunches down into the bag, changing her appearance into something.. more appealing than her avian misfortunes. Mystical symbols begin to glow in the air around Kotoba and his robes blow in an illusory winds, accompanied with the sound of pages being turned. Trinity crawls out of the bag, but before her new form can be seen her presence is felt by all, an aura of the utmost serenity, pure undiluted peace emanates from her location. Her new form is about a foot taller at four and a half feet. Her skin, at least what little is showing is akin to that of a perfectly carved polished bronze statute. Her hair a Radiant gold flowing from her head to well below the middle of her back. Her eyes are pools of Opal white and joy. Adorning her head is a Platinum Circlet that emmets a glow pleasant to the eyes with a luminosity comparable to that of a torch. She wears a black dress crowned a mantle of golden feathers around her collar and shoulders, extending to just above her elbows. On her feet she wears black flats with golden cloth bows tied to tighten them. At the Climax of Kotoba's Invocation the arcane winds die down and the sounds dim into a light hum, the golden and red symbols in the air circle His and Trinity's heads in a figure eight before splitting into two sigils in the shape of red dragons and two in the shape of Golden song birds. The dragons enter Kotoba's throat and forehead while the song birds enter Trinity's throat and forehead. "Im going to find a room for us and do a little research, feel free to converse here, don't stray too far though, contact me if anything goes wrong." Kotoba says to Trinity. He nods and he turns to the servant, picking up the bag and following he/her to the rooms. Trinity ventures amongst the nobles, greeted by awe, she waves a serene hand at many, small talking and verbal blessings. She sense unease in the room momentarily and then notices the source, a stumbling middle aged man, she smiles to herself as he puts his hat back on, an interesting tale for sure. Attempting to make her way through the maze of suits and dresses to the man she loses him momentarily and accidentally stumbles into a handsome and well-manicured man of about six and a half feet tall with an athletic build. "Ohp, sorry sir," his features catch her eye as an interesting story that would surely be a joyous listen, although it would seem as through she intruded upon a previous conversation, "sorry or intrusion madam." she claps her hands together and does a slight bow. Spoiler Show Kotoba-Ryu: The Spell he cast was Message; the extra thematics was a result of him using Elder Giant magic on the casting to recite a miracle (a Divine story) about a Celestial Princess sanctifying a Great Red Dragon. Spoiler: the Miracle and Seath, The Dragon Sage and Gwynevere, the Celestial Daughter Show The Miracle is recited equalling in Celestial and Draconic. Those who can only understand Draconic believe the story is of a Princess that imprisoned The dragon's mind in her Dreamland, and transformed its body into a Nightingale. Every Night the Nightingale would sing to the Princess, a manifestation of the Dragon's will resisting the purifying energies of the royal. This song, a powerfully defiant cantation transformed from to majestic vocation of Virtue. Those who can only understand Celestial believe the story is of a Dragon who captured the princess and through the years of her captivity every night she would transform into a Nightingale and sing to the Dragon. The song softened the dragons heart and purified it, the dragon promised to return the Princess but the promise was made too late, the Kingdoms army stormed the Dragons lair and vanquished it. The Royal transformed the Dragons remains into a Nightingale familiar and summoned the dragons soul into its new form. Those who understand both languages realize the story is about a Dragon and a princess who fell in love, thought the love was forbidden given the kindgom's prejudice towards the Arcane. The Dragon left the kingdom with the princess in tow and was said to have abducted the royal. Over the years together the Princess would would to separate the dragon from its vile heritage (at the dragons wishes) with a nightly ritual. There paradise together would be cut short by the Kindgoms invading Army, who stormed the dragons lair, slayed the dragon, and "saved" the princess. As a Final gift to the Dragon the Princess reincarnated the Dragon as a Nightingale, her Familiar. Spoiler: Color palate Show Speaks in this color )Kotoba:daa520( Speaks in this Color )Trinity:a9a9a9( other notes: Trinity's new apparel is themed off of This by Gabriella Bujdoso. Her physical characteristics are meant to imitate that of a Throne Archon. Actions Trinity: She used her Supernatural ability to Disguise self and her Orison Light on her forehead. Kotoba: Cast the Cantrip Message while using Elder Giant Magic and Reserves of Strength to have a Grand total Caster level of 17. The Spells lasts for 2 hours and 50 minutes, the range is 270ft, The message can go around corners but no point of the messages travel can exceed this range, distance traveled is not measured only distance from messenger at any given point. Kotoba will narrate the pathway he takes to Trinity so she knows her way to him if need be

[Metastachydium]

Well met, Lady Nadjiel, well met. the lizard answers in fluent, rolling Elven, tapping his chest lightly with an open palm in greeting. It is a delight to hear the tongue of my kind spoken in such an exquisite manner – my servants know it, of course, but I find the way they render it lacking in grace. I likewise appreciate your concerns about my health, but as you certainly realise, I am a Miesener and Miessen has its share of mountains and winds as well. Kirsch speaks without losing his serene smile for so much as a moment, doing his best to seem unbothered by the thought that he definitely should have packed a cloak. As for my reasons for being here, the kind Lady specifically raquested that I attend this banquet of hers. I was unaware that these events occur with some degree of regularity. I take it that you are among the recurring guests, then? Kirsch forces an expression of mild curiosity on his scaly face as he looks up into Nadjiel's face.

Spoiler: Knowledge check.

Show

Let's see what the lizard knows about Lady Nadjiel of Spyre and her family!
Knowledge (nobility and royalty) (1d20+8)[11]
Knowledge (history) (1d20+8)[20]
Knowledge (local) (1d20+7)[25]

[Toliudar]

Clytemnestra
Chatting with Spycrist and Meaghan, she nods faintly as the faithful companion looks to her. She in turn makes a pretense of a slight mis-step - hardly out of place, given her difficulty in walking - in order to catch Meaghan's eye. "Patience." she mouths.

Hearing what she had from Spycrist, she starts to look for external signs in the castle around them as they follow. Blank spaces where there should be paintings, furniture...things that might have been sold off in service of a growing debt. The number of questions was growing exponentially, and Clytemnestra was startled to discover that she was...enjoying herself immensely.

So far.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Spoiler: Appearance

Show

A tall and imposing looking elven woman is dressed impeccably in a stylish brocade jacket and woolen breeches. Her lovely face is marked by a dozen scars, the puckered and ivory marks standing out against her tanned skin. The woman's loose hair is grey-white and falls to the small of her back. The woman carries a slender polished staff, and when she moves it becomes clear that it provides stability to her tottering walk, as well as a sense of style.

Spoiler: Statblock

Show

Clytemnestra 'Nessie" Dekatos
Female LN Grey Elf Beguiler1/Conjurer4/Ultimate Magus1, Level 6, Init 4, HP 25/25, Speed 15
AC 14, Touch 10, Flat-footed 14, Fort 2, Ref 1, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus 2, Power Points 33/34
Sling +2 (1d4+1, x2)
Quarterstaff +3 (1d6+1, x2)
Mage Armour (+4 Armor)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 22, Wis 12, Cha 14
Condition Mage Armour

[Geeksthenewsexy]

Back stiffening, Victor clears his throat at the woman's attentions. "Yes, well... a simple matter, for a...um, wizard of my... uh calibur, to be sure. But what paltry enchantments could compare to your own enchanting beauty, madam? Surely no arcane magic could compare to the delight of your company or your enchanting smile. But perhaps... " He observes the woman, looking over her, taking special note her jewelry. "Perhaps, we can attempt to enhance perfection, shall we?" Waggling his fingers at the woman intricately, he nods, seeming to peer at the woman's jewelry. Jewelry that now begins to shine and glimmer as if freshly polished. "Aha! Now they shine as surely as your smile, madam."

Feeling the bump of another person, Victor flashes an apologetic smile to the newcomer. "Oh, I'm sure it was my own fault, ma'am. I've been bewitched by this lovely enchantress, and likely did not pay heed to my surroundings." He bows politely. "My sincerest of apologies. I can only plead for mercy on the grounds of my very recent bewitchment."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Using a feat-granted Cantrip to cast Prestidigitation, and using it's polish effect on the noblewoman's shinies to make them shinier.

Bluff: (1d20+16)[33] to seem like he knows what he's doing and/or give the impression that he's actually doing something that is at all magically impressive/clever.

[Erelamar]

Victor and Kirsch (walking with a group up the Skywalk to Castle Allsatalos)

The grinning noblewoman claps her hands in delight as her jewels sparkle with new life. "As good as the day my husband presented them to me," she says. "Really, I must sack my lady's maid and keep you around!" The nobles laugh along with her...

Lady Nadjiel chuckles gently with the rest, but then continues her conversation with Kirsch, "A Miesener of Miessen? How interesting. I will have to remember that. I am a collector of trivia of sorts. And, not to brag, whenever such is pulled for parlor games, my team always wins." Her smile deepens, though turns questioning as Kirsch continues to speak. "Requested? An invitation? How extraordinary. Why, you ask?" And the elven woman gestures to herself and all the other nobles climbing the Skywalk, of which you have traversed about half.

"None of us have ever received an invitation. To my knowledge, no one has. The parties are announced, and whoever shows up, shows up.

Clytemnestra and Megamax (in the Herbaceous Chamber, 2nd floor)

Red and golden lights shine through the crack in the door monitored by Spycrist. "Well... that's going to get his attention, for sure," he mutters to himself.

At that, Spycrist throws open the door and continue forward into a wide, long wood-paneled library bursting with books up to its vaulted ceiling. Tall ladders on rollers slide across every wall save where more great windows are set: those to the north looking down on the wisteria garden and to the south out over the mountains and the Skywalk where you can just make out a tiny crowd advancing towards Allsatalos.

Spycrist noncommittally mentions, "This's just the guest library. The family one is in the castle's citadel."

The old retainer dodges around leather couches and deep, comfy chairs through the open archway into the next chamber: a sort of combination trophy/game room. Billiards tables, cards tables, and even a skittle alley are scattered around the room. And looming above it all are the stuffed heads of mountainous monsters (behir, peryton, and the like).

Through another open archway and the three of you are on the balcony ringing the Grand Foyer. Peering over the edge, Spycrist seems satisfied and leads you around the northern side of the room, pausing at another archway that looks on the second story landing of the First Hall's grand stairs; they continue yet still higher. Seeing only the backs of a few nobles being led to their rooms down a northward hall, the three of you continue unnoticed.

He takes you to the western wall where a small servant's door is situated. You proceed through it and down a far less grand and narrower hallway, yet still, its north windows look down on the western garden, so different and planned and geometric than the eastern one. It too, though, is boxed in by the edifice of Allsatalos.

Hearing movement from an intersecting corridor, Spycrist opens a side door and has you scuttle inside. It is a small servants' lounge, though even it has breathtaking views through an arrowslit window of the mountain ranges and the Skywalk.

Spycrist closes the door but keeps a listen at it. There is chatter and rattle of dishes. "Yeah, some cooks carrying up dinner to the staff dining hall. They'll be done soon and we'll pass." When he looks back at perhaps the wondering faces of the two magicians, he begins, "I don't want to be seen to be talking with ya, is all. Anyone'll report back to that snow elf, and he's a sharp one. He'll put one and two together and figure you're here because'a me; it'll make him even more ornery than he already is, and I want'cha to get a chance to speak to the Lady without him interfering... What? Oh, that bit about 'because'a me?' Yeah, thing is, the Lady didn't reeeally send any of you them invitations. I did."

Kotoba and Trinity (split between the First Hall and Hot Chocolate Salon)

The gathered elven and human nobles in the western salon off the Grand Foyer look on, impressed by Kotoba and Trinity's display. They even set down their mugs of brandied hot chocolate to clap when it is finished. The aristocrats eagerly accept the golden girl in the black-feathered dress into their little circle.

The salon is warmed by a small fireplace, a window in the north of the room looks out over a courtyard garden: low, geometric, and surrounded by the walls of the castle. A door in the west constantly swings open back and forth as servants bring forth platters of tiny delicious-looking morsels from what is clearly the kitchen beyond.

A bow-legged nobleman and a lady so light and airy she seems to float, both human, are the first to introduce themselves to Trinity. They are Mazlowe Carn and Isabelle of Corg, and they speak almost in unison as if with one voice finishing each other's thoughts, "And what is your name, my dear?" "We just know we've heard of you." "Has to have done work in Sandrine." "Has to..."

As Kotoba has a footman lead him to his guest chamber, he is taken north from the Grand Foyer into the First Hall where two mighty staircases rise up several floors to a distant buttressed ceiling of pastel crystals. A wide, northern corridor on the ground level continues deeper into the citadel of the castle; it is less lit, colder, and more austere than the rest of the rooms. Neither servants nor guests approach it. To the east is a large portico open wide to the wisteria and still ponds and unearthly beautiful grass of the eastern garden.

The servant is making his way to one of the massive staircases when a voice stops him, "YOU." And Kotoba is close enough to see the hair on the back of the footman's neck stand up and hear a faint whisper of "Oh, no... Father Neomund." Seemingly coming from nowhere a pale elf with long, stark white hair and eyes like deep, black pits approaches Kotoba. He is the one who addressed the first party as they entered Allsatalos, the one who warned against wandering. Up this close, one can see that the elf wears a silver medallion around his neck embossed with the image of a horn with seven mouths.

The snow elf walks up to Kotoba, and when the two of you are little more than an arms-length apart, something strikes the magician as deeply wrong. Either it's the way the elf carries himself or something even more subtle, Kotoba feels off: unfocused and unsure of his footing.

"My records show all the entertainers have already arrived..." He looks Kotoba up and down, "Sir. And I do not remember seeing you or your companion here before. I would remember. How have you come to learn of our Event and what is your purpose here? But I will inform you now, there is no solicitation of any kind allowed at Allsatalos."

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Again, really long post. But all anyone really needs to read is just their section which I hope makes it more manageable.

Spoiler: Clytemnestra

Show

Paying attention as you are walking, you don't notice any loss of grandeur at all to Allsatalos. By whatever metric Spycrist is using to gauge Emalia's financial stability, it does not seem to be waning on the surface of things.

Spoiler: Kotoba

Show

Mechanically, the effects of standing next to Father Neomund are: You are on difficult terrain and you cannot cast defensively.