Session started at 2021-01-03 / 11:32

Pathfinder (1E) ruleset v3.3.12 for Fantasy Grounds Copyright 2019 Smiteworks USA, LLC
Dungeons and Dragons (3.5E) ruleset v3.3.12 for Fantasy Grounds Copyright 2019 Smiteworks USA, LLC
Core RPG ruleset v3.3.12A for Fantasy Grounds Copyright 2019 Smiteworks USA, LLC
Theme: Pathfinder - Official\rCopyright 2017 Paizo Inc.\rCopyright 2017 SmiteWorks USA, LLC.
'CULTxBeakman' connected
'CULTxChevRage' connected
'CULTxicycalm' connected
'CULTxExiledOne' connected
'CULTxRobomoo' connected
'CULTxArchonus' connected
You are all standing in line waiting to be accepted into the senate building. While senators may enter the senate building with a minimum of fuss, the process for aides, staff, and other attendees to enter is long and tedious. As you stand around waiting, you see dozens of overeager merchants walking up and down the line attempting to sell a variety of wares, mostly novelty Taldan flags and phony pieces of historical memorabilia. After a while, several others in the line begin to bemoan the wait, touting their respective level of importance based on association with their affiliated nobles and senators. You hear people mentioning that it can take several hours to finally reach the front. The entire affair looks to be quite tiresome.
Edward [Common]: Looks like it's going to take a long time to get in there. I wonder what the hold up seems to be.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros: Feels almost like a beehive there's so much commotion...

Cedric [Common]: You are in civilized society now, beastman.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Much to my chagrin, Sir Cedric...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: No one's forcing you to be here.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I have my mission.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
About an hour into the wait you find yourselves halfway down the line. You see a female soldier and a gruff man making their way down the line. The woman seems to be Vudrani but is otherwise mostly unremarkable. The man catches your attention though, since his heavily scarred face contrasts sharply with his well-dressed appearance.

The two make their way down the line until the woman notices you. She makes a gesture towards your group, speaks a few comments to her companion, and then approaches you, a stern look on her face.
Arco Arboros [Common]: Looks like we have company, fellows...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: I don't like the look of that man.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: I sternly look at the people I have to babysit now.
Edward: I try to recognise them.
Cedric [Common]: Lady, can you get us in there faster?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: My name is Shadrick. I've been tasked to join you.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

Edward [Common]: Tasked to join us?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
The woman stops in front of you, her hand resting on the pommel of her sword. "Looks like it's your lucky day. Random inspection time. Please come with us," she says loudly with a look of disinterest, like she's done this many times. She shoots an angry glance at the man next to her heavy with implied meaning.
Edward [Common]: What's the meaning of this? We've been in the line for hours.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: This feels familiar.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: You can inspect us just fine with your eyes from over there, strangers...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Let's just do what she says.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: That's good thinking.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Is that a threat?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros: I grip my quarterstaff firmly.
The woman looks you up and down. "Standard procedure. Won't take long."
Edward [Common]: Very well.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Hmm. Just don't get too handsy...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: We follow them.

Shadrick Orcface: I keep a close eye on their intentions.
Edward: I pat down the feathers of Oliver.
She motions for you to follow and begins walking away from the line over to a holding area seemingly prepared for this purpose. She looks around to make sure the other guards are still inspecting the queue and then turns to all of you. "Alright. Let's see all your weapons. One at a time," she states matter-of-factly.
Edward: [SKILL] Sense Motive [d20 = 5]
Cedric: [SKILL] Sense Motive [d20+1 = 6]
Ivan: [SKILL] Sense Motive [d20 = 9]
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Sense Motive [d20+4 = 15]
Valkian: [SKILL] Sense Motive [d20+3 = 14]
Cedric [Common]: I show her my longsword and dagger.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian: [SKILL] Sleight of Hand [d20+7 = 14]
GM: +5 [d20+5 = 17]

As the woman pats down Valkian she abruptly pulls away, a dagger in her hand. She holds it up for all of you to see and remarks, a slight smirk on her face, "You'll have to do better than that, gentlemen." She hands it back to Valkian and remarks, "Better hide it in your boot. Most of the security detail have been here so long they forget these sorts of things."

Arco Arboros: I raise my eyebrow and a curl comes to the corner of my mouth.
"But I'm getting ahead of myself. I am Kathann Zalar. We have a... friend in common, you could say." She then motions to her stoic companion, "As my friend here already mentioned, somewhat inopportunely, his name is Shadrick Orcface. A very apt name, if I do say so myself. You may consider him a friend as well."
Arco Arboros [Common]: Well then! Another friend is a blessing from Cayden Himself! A pleasure, Sir Orcface.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: I'll take your advice. Thank you...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Though I am a bit embarrassed honestly.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: You need to work on your roguery a bit, Valk...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: I am Edward, and this owl is Oliver. He's my familiar.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: So it seems.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
"Don't worry about it. I've seen pretty much every trick in the book at this point," she says as she smiles at Valkian.
Arco Arboros [Common]: And my name is Arco Arboros.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Name's Valkian by the way.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: I am Cedric, paladin of Iomedae.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan [Common]: I am Ivan, a soldier.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Good. Can we leave introductions behind us now?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

GM [Common]: Kathann sighs and glances at Shadrick, "I suppose you're right. There is much to do tonight... or so I hear."
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Soon we'll find out that half this party is supposed to be helping us with our missions.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Seems Martella has pulled more strings than expected.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

Ivan [Common]: The Lady does seem to like surprising us...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I don't like surprises...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Says the drunkard.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Hey! I'm barely tipsy...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: What did I get myself into...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: ...though another drink wouldn't be so bad.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Mind your conduct. You are about to be amongst more nobles.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Of course, young Edward!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I just hope they're serving wine.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Well, Valkian should know what to do with the wine.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: I try to shout them up in my mind and focus on the mission.
Satisfied that none of you are committing any egregious faux pas, the woman proceeds to peace bind your weapons. "Lets get you past this ridiculous line, shall we? There will be plenty of time for wine once you're in. Is there ANYTHING I should know? Speak now before it becomes a problem later."
Arco Arboros [Common]: You should know that I'm single...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I look her up and down. Is she cute?
Edward [Common]: What do you know of the senators in this gathering?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

She laughs melodiously at Arco's comment but does not respond. She's attractive in an exotic way, but if not for her unusually striking features she would perhaps be considered somewhat plain. Though that could have to do with the fact that she's not exactly dressed up for the occasion.
Cedric: [SKILL] Perception [d20+1 = 12]

As she walks you to the front of the line she responds to Edward's comment, "I know only that any one who is anyone is going to be there. Beyond that, not too much more."
Ivan [Common]: What mission were you tasked with, cleric?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Where will you be if we need to reach you?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: They're senators. Power hungry, self-centered and mostly useless.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Kathann can inform you on my mission.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
GM [Common]: She ushers you all the way to the front of the line and nods to you all. "Good luck," she declares. She then turns to return to her duties. You are now free to ascend the hundred white marble steps that loom before you leading to the senate of the Taldan empire. Hundreds of nobles, senatorial aides, and visiting dignitaries mingle within and without the grand halls of the senate.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward: I whisper to the guys.
Arco Arboros [Common]: Never thought I'd be scaling a mountain in the middle of a city. By Cayden, look at those steps!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Should we focus on a single mission for now, or see how things pan out?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: We all have our individual tasks, but people, like wolves, work better in packs.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Stay in the group. Mingle as a group. And after we get our bearings we act.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Arco's mission seems to be the easiest. Deliver a letter.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: I agree with Cedric. I like that idea.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I do like to keep things simple!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Yeah, sounds good Cedric.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan: I examine the peace-binding on my weapon to try and gauge how easily I could break it.
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: I suppose I can tell you that my mission is to babysit you.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 8]
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [UNTRAINED] [d20+2 = 10]
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge Nobility [UNTRAINED] [d20+6 = 10]
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [UNTRAINED] [d20 = 20]
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [UNTRAINED] [d20-1 = 4]
Valkian: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20+2 = 4]

Ivan, Edward, and Shadrick immediately notice High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus in the corner, surrounded by an entourage of well-wishers and fans.

There seems to be time yet before the event truly begins. Most of the guests are mingling and taking this opportunity to tour the senate and see where the magic of governance happens.
Shadrick Orcface: I look at the arifacts preserved in their glass cases, and centuries of history of Taldor, my nation, spring to mind. Now my attention drifts towards my 'other' mission.
Edward: I try to remember what I know of the High Strategos.
Cedric: I look up the stairs to see where they lead.
Arco Arboros: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20+1 = 20]
Ivan: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20-1 = 11]
Cedric: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20+2 = 4]
Shadrick Orcface: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20-2 = 11]
Edward: [ABILITY] Charisma check [+4] [d20+8 = 27]
Valkian: [ABILITY] Charisma check [+2] [d20+4 = 9]
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20-1 = 12]
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+6 = 18]
GM [Common]: Edward easily remembers the Strategos. Nearly every Taldan should recogniz commander-in-chief Maxillar Pythareus as Grand Prince Stavian III's right hand and a fanatical supporter of the throne. He believes in political might and economic stability through military supremacy, advocating for new wars of conquest against wayward colonies like Andoran and Cheliax, or even Qadira.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Maxillar is a muscular man in his early forties. Years under the elements have weathered his skin, and he keeps his silver hair closely cropped. He wears a green-and-blue tabard emblazoned with Taldor's official coat of arms, publicly declaring his loyalty to the nation more than anything else.
Arco Arboros [Common]: I wonder where Count Orlundo would be. I also wonder where the wine is. I walk towards Maxillar and try asking where he might be.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I run up and stop the druid.
Ivan [Common]: Don't anyone go wandering off alone.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Where are you going?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I was just wondering if that important looking man might know where Count Orundo might be.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Does he look like a tour guide?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Just stick next to us and leave the important-looking people alone.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: No, but he looks pretty popular! He must know the Count!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Well, alright...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Ask a servant if you want that kind of info.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Commoners...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Civilians...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan [Common]: Just keep your head down and let us do the talking, druid.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Don't say that too loud!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: They'll skin me alive if they find out what I am!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: You can say that again.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
A few gossipers glance in your direction and whisper amongst themselves.
Arco Arboros: The hairs on the back of my neck start rising.
Ivan: I beckon the others to come over to us.
Ivan [Common]: We really should stick together. Don't forget we're in a dangerous place here.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: It's just a party.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: It's a grand party Ivan.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: I do have a bad feeling about it, but right now it looks safe.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: I get close to them, paying more attention to the artifacts encased in glass.
Arco Arboros [Common]: I like parties, but they usually involve fertility rituals and naked dryads.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

Cedric: I tell Valkian to not even think about it.
You see an assortment of items in the display cases. A crossbow, an elaborate silk fan, a spyglass. Seemingly mundane objects with historical significance. You notice a journal on a desk as well. A group of people nearby are discussing it in detail.
Valkian: I go towards the group while looking at a few of the artifacts behind the glass.
Cedric: I follow Valkian.
The journal apparently belonged to Earl Vernisant’s great grandfather and details his extensive genealogical work to connect their family line to the heroic Arnisant legacy.
Arco Arboros [Common]: Window shopping, Valk?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: That's all.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Haha, of course...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 15]

A proud man in his early thirties, Calhadion Vernisant is the appointed leader of Greater Ridonport and a hereditary senator. His political ambitions are considerable, though he's been keeping a low profile lately. He has been playing up being a direct descendant of General Arnisant, and is using his pedigree to politically bludgeon his peers into submission, leveraging their fear of appearing unpatriotic against them.
General Arnisant, hero of the Shining Crusade and vanquisher of the Whispering Tyrant.
Cedric: I walk to the stairs and look where they lead.
Edward: I walk to the statues within the glass and examine them.
Ivan: I take a look at the senate troops, sizing them up.
Arco Arboros: I look around the glass display cases to satiate my curiosity, while wondering what's so important about all this stuff.
Valkian: I follow Arco while doing the same.
Arco Arboros [Common]: I just don't get it, Valk. This stuff looks boring. If you're going to diplay something it should be a pretty flower or some exotic beasts. But then I'd be sad if they were in a cage...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: I try to remember some historical fact that may help me into talking to Maxillian.
Valkian [Common]: It's supposed to be historical so it must have some significance even if it's not particuarly the monetary type.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward walks around the statues and the phalanx guards politely explain that they are famous suits of armor worn by previous heroes.
Arco and Valkian notice that everything in here seems to be considered an item of great importance once wielded or used by notable people throughout Taldor's long and storied history.
Ivan notices that the troops are actually phalanx legionairres that have been tasked with explaining the history of many of the items on display (and protecting them, of course).
Shadrick Orcface: I get close to a massive book located in one of the corners of the hall. I try to see if I can gather any interesting information from it.
Cedric approaches the stairs and sees that they lead into some sort of sublevel, but they're cordoned off and a guard stands watch, likely so that no one goes down there.

Arco Arboros: I kneel down to smell these lovely flowers
Arco Arboros [Common]: What a lovely garden! Now this is more my speed. All that's missing is the wine and the dryads!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: I might need your help later Arco, you always know where to find the wine.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros: I give my rougish friend a knowing wink.
Shadrick Orcface: I cup my hand and reach for the fountain's water. I take a sip.
Arco Arboros [Common]: And exotic beasts! See, Valk? This is how you display beautiful things!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: You and your animals. You should take a look around. I just checked out a few of the other rooms here.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: Man, I'd rather spend the whole night here, but I guess you're right.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: The kitchen is further in Arco.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: And the wine, I hope!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: Indeed.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: I walk towards towards the Imperial Archives and find Valkian there.
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Are you intereste in history, Valkian?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: A little bit. Haven't read much but I desire to one day.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros: I return to the courtyard and observe the beasts, seeing if I can recognize them.

Wyssilka is a halfling wearing standout black-red-and-white attire. She wears similar makeup, embellishing her childish face to resemble a raccoon. Despite her color choice, Wyssilka is abound with enthusiasm and smiles, showing off a set of immaculate white teeth.
She's currently entertaining a cabal of cackling children. They call her Wyssilka the Fantabulous and she seems to be very popular.

Cedric: I focus on the lady with the glasses upstairs, and move near her.
Shadrick Orcface: I walk towards the black-haired armored man in the Senate Floor.
Valkian: The halfling woman catches my attention.
Arco Arboros: While enjoying the sight of the lovely courtyard gardens and exotic beasts I also notice a rather regal looking woman who also seems exotic. I approach her and try to strike up a conversation.
Edward: I go towards the lady in the Imperial Archives.
Cedric notices a woman wearing ridiculously gauche noble clothing and fine jewelry that sets her apart from even the other Taldans. She's currently conversing with a few noble women. Her face is usually in a smile, though it quickly turns to a sneer in the few moments she loses control of the conversation. She has short but well-kept brown hair locked back in a stylized bun.
Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 22]
Cedric recognizes her as Countess Abreille Pace, a countess and member of the senate from the western borders of Taldor, Abrielle Pace has been known to seek advancement by dubious means, on occasion.

Shadrick looks the man up and down. This handsome bear of a man stands a head taller than the crowd, and while starting to show his age with flecks of white in his black hair and beard, he retains a youthful smile and gentle eyes.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Knowledge (History) [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 7]
Arco tries to approach the woman in the gardens but she's surrounded by hangers-on who are clamoring for her attention. Even so, he can see she stands tall among her noble peers, sporting the finest of Absalom's fashion. Her attire is far less ostentatious than that of other present nobles, but she makes up for it with a grace of movement that allows her to easily shift between crowds.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20-1 = 6]
Shadrick Orcface: Imagining some of the bird-like beasts cooked in a stew gets me hungry.
Edward approaches the Imperial Archives. He notices a man with a round face and a few extra pounds, he looks very different from some of the waifish ladies' man talking to a female clerk nearby. He's currently tinkering with his wheelchair, adjusting an issue with his wheels. Two other noblemen are seated nearby chatting with him pleasantly.
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [+2] [d20+8 = 20]
An attending duke of Grand Duchess Cisera Tiberan of Tandak prefecture, Duke Leonard Centimus is an intellectual and tinkerer whose head for systems makes him a good administrator, if a little awkward with people.
Ivan approaches a man uncomfortably wearing clothing of noble finery, constantly fidgeting with the cuffs and scratching at his neck. His calloused hands, simple hair style, and sun-beaten face all set him apart, as does his broad, genuine smile.
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [+2] [d20+3 = 13]

As you all tour the senate building and mingle a bit with the locals you notice that the place is starting to get significantly crowded. It's likely that the party is soon to begin in earnest as the stragglers filter in slowly. The excitement is almost palpable. It looks like you have a little bit of time yet to make your opening moves, though it seems approaching the apparent VIPs is out of the question for the time being, seeing as how they are in the process of greeting and welcoming streams of newcomers, many of whom clamor to approach them.
[TURN] Edward
[TURN] Arco Arboros
Arco Arboros [Common]: I try to see if I can grab the crowd's attention with some tricks these beasts may know. I approach a beast and ask them to "shake."
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward: I talk to various lower nobles around the senate floor impressing on them my knowledge of various high standing nobility.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Handle Animal [d20+8 = 26]

Cedric: I walk downstairs and head towards the Arcade of Triumphs, trying to get as close to Maxillar Pythareus as possible. I then proceed to observe him and his retinue/hangers-on, and start discussions with people trying to impress on them how much of an imperialist I am, and how much I support the imperialist agenda.
Arco approaches a small, caged raccoon and spends a couple of minutes getting to know him by feeding him bits of scraps from the trays of food that are brought by from time to time. The creature responds favorably and he begins teaching it a couple of tricks. This attracts the attention of a few of the ladies that were speaking with the tall woman from before. The giggle at the creature's antics and strike up a conversation with Arco. They seem to be familiar with the woman he was eying earlier and are willing to speak about her in some detail.
Shadrick Orcface: I go back to the Arcade of Triumphs in order to get close to Maxillar in order to try to overhear his conversations with people surrounding him. Hopefully my knowledge of military history and the weapons in display will come handy.
Ivan: I mingle with the crowd around Duke Centimus, making small talk about noble matters while attempting to eavesdrop on the Duke as I wait for a chance to talk with him.
Arco discovers that she is Lady Gloriana Morilla and that she is difficult to impress. The noble women sometimes suspect that she places more import on practical and "common" arts than she does the usual noble fare. She also seems somewhat fond of spellcraft and has been known to talk about it at some length.
Arco Arboros [Common]: My thanks, m'ladies! And thank you for enjoying the show!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+6 = 9]
Edward tries to ingratiate himself with a few of the men arguing on the Senate floor, but they don't seem interested. They have formed a clique, drawn battle-lines, and are holding a mock debate, making it somewhat difficult to speak on the floor at the moment.

Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 7]
Valkian: I pull a gold coin out of my pocket and attempt a vanishing trick using my quick hand speed to please the crowd. I ask the halfling questions about her employers and the nobles.
Cedric makes his way over to the Arcade of Triumphs and attempts to talk up a couple of nobles. Unfortunately, most of the people in the room are being regaled with a story by the High Strategos himself about one of his previous campaigns. He commands most of the attention in the room and the men politely excuse themselves to go listen closer with rapt attention.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Knowledge (History) [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 11]
Shadrick makes a couple of attempts to interject into Maxillar's story only to be one-upped by Maxillar himself who had left a few gotchas and loose ends in his tale on purpose so he could return to them with dramatic flair later with more detail, rendering Shadrick's attempts to come across as a bit try-hard.
Ivan: I try to start a conversation about improvements for the siege defences on Jadrishar Island.
Ivan [Common]: I try to start a conversation about improvements for the siege defences on Jadrishar Island.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge (Engineering) [UNTRAINED] [+4] [d20+5 = 17]
Ivan [Common]: I try to start a conversation about improvements for the siege defences on Jadrishar Island.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
As Ivan discusses Jadrishar Island he starts to gather a small number of people interested in his approach on shoring up defenses. He notices the Duke watching him with a bit of interest out of the corner of his eye, though the Duke makes no effort to approach.
Valkian: [SKILL] Sleight of Hand [+2] [d20+9 = 14]
Valkian shows of an impressive feat of dexterity and attracts the attention of a few of the children, but then Wyssilka amps up her routine, drawing them back towards her. She gives Valkian a quick wink as the children surge back towards her.

You all notice a bunch of people making their way over to the courtyard, almost in droves. They all seem to be trying to pack themselves in as they chatter amongst themselves with excitement.
Dozens of senators, well-wishers, and hangers-on have begun to gather around the newly arrived Princess Eutropia Stavian, who slipped into the gala unnoticed and unannounced. Lady Gloriana Morilla loudly clinks her glass and declares that Princess Eutropia would like to address the gathering. With the announcement, the crowd gives Eutropia some space, and Gloriana helps the princess climb onto the garden’s stone railing to be seen and heard above the throngs.

Folder assets refreshed.

Princess Eutropia Stavian I [Common]: My friends, colleagues, and assorted enemies, it is wonderful to see you all out in your finery beneath the beautiful stars tonight. With any luck, the weather will be the only thing that refuses to change this evening. We have all gathered here tonight to honor Master Kalbio of Breezy Creek, a master artisan and true patriot, for his exquisite skill and service to our glorious empire. Master Kalbio demonstrates so eloquently that a heart may be noble regardless of the stature of one’s birth, and while it may be premature, I hope to be the first to congratulate you, sir, on the exaltation you will see tonight and welcome you into the ranks of Taldor’s long-lived aristocracy. But we gather here to discuss matters of state, as well. And just as the exaltation reminds us that our glorious empire must always look out into the world to refresh the greatness of its leadership, we must all look out into the world around us and see how it has grown. The child-nations our empire birthed—Andoran, Cheliax, Lastwall—have grown strong by examining the great traditions they inherited from our motherland, and embracing those relevant to this new world and discarding those that held them back. So too will we, this very night, examine one of Taldor’s oldest traditions—primogeniture—with eyes wide open, to determine whether it has held us back from the glory and stability our wayward states have found. Our obligation tonight is not about one person or one vote in the senate. It is about the nation we love and about ensuring that nation does not fall behind the times. We are the inheritors of mighty Azlant, and I say that we must work together to avoid sharing that old empire’s fate. Taldor endures!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

Edward: [SKILL] Perception [d20 = 18]
Cedric: [SKILL] Perception [d20+1 = 12]
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Perception [d20+11 = 20]
Ivan: [SKILL] Perception [d20 = 10]
Valkian: [SKILL] Perception [d20+5 = 17]
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Perception [d20+5 = 24]

Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Hail Taldor!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
During the speech, one of the serving staff breaks off from the assembled group and heads toward the apiary near the edge of the courtyard. Edward, Arco, Valkian, and Shadrick noticed the odd movement. Edward and Shadrick additionally notice that the staff member is holding onto a strangely colored bar, possibly alchemical.
Edward: I follow the staff members to see what that is about.
Shadrick Orcface: I noticed the odd behavior and want to investigate further.
Valkian: I tell Ivan about the weird motions.
Arco Arboros: I nudge Valkian to see if he noticed what I did.
Shadrick Orcface: I'll follow the staff trying to see if I can notice further details or overhear him.
Ivan: I immediately start looking around for other sources of danger.
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20+2 = 13]
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20 = 13]
Edward and Shadrick follow the man until he reaches the apiary. He goes to place the colored bar inside.
Oliver: [SKILL] Perception [d20+10 = 22]
Oliver seems agitated and Edward gets the impression that the bar is going to be trouble.
Edward [Common]: I yell out loudly. "Hey you! Stop what you are doing?"
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan: I start to move towards Cedric and motion that Arco and Valkian should follow.
Arco Arboros: I run over to Edward and Ivan.
Valkian [Common]: I follow over to Ivan.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

The Princess continues her speech, apparently oblivious or choosing to ignore the small commotion in the corner. Some of the people at the edge of the throng cast annoyed glances in your direction. The staffer stops what he's doing and turns to look in your direction. "Umm... is something the matter?"
Shadrick Orcface: I'm still suspicious about the staff's behavior. I try to sense if he's lying.
Edward [Common]: What is that you are holding?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I cast Guidance on Shadrick.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I join the others to see what the hell they are doing.
Cedric [Common]: What's going on?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: Some guy's acting really suspicious.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Arco Arboros: I grasp Shadrick's shoulder and utter into his ear some words of wisdom.
Cedric [Common]: What is he doing?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Sense Motive [+1] [d20+10 = 20]

The staffer seems a bit flustered and responds, "I was told to place this here. I don't know what it is. I swear!" He seems sincere to Shadrick.
Cedric [Common]: To place what where?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Edward [Common]: He's holding something dangerous.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

Cedric: I step forward and grab the thing from his hand.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nature) [d20+5 = 25]
Arco Arboros [Common]: I know precisely what's going on here...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
He explains that a phalanx guard approached him earlier and told him to place the wafer near the beehives, telling him the scent would keep the bees calm for the evening and prevent any incidents.
Arco can immediately tell that this bar gives off a scent that is intended to agitate bees and would've caused a significant incident if it had been placed where the staffer was told.
Arco Arboros [Common]: You were misinformed, friend. You were about to do precisely the opposite.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
The staffer is mortified by this news.
"I... I don't understand," says the staffer as Cedric snatches it from his hands. His hands just fall limply to his side.

At this point Eutropia’s speech concludes. She hops down from the railing and is suddenly inundated with supporters and critics.
Cedric [Common]: Who is the guard who told you to do this? Take us to him right now!
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I motion to the others to encircle the servant.
"I don't know who it was. They all look the same to me in their armor. I didn't get a good look at him, my lord," blurts the man, almost on the verge of tears.
Edward: I look around to see if there are any suspicious guards watching.
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: This man is innocent. Can someone recognize this artifact?
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: The colored bar, I mean.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric [Common]: Let's just stay close to the Princess.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Agreed.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Valkian [Common]: It's a good idea. She may be a target.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I move near the Princess.
Edward [Common]: Agreed.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
There are guards around the room but they're keeping an eye on the crowds.
Arco Arboros [Common]: Hmm, if Terry were here he could probably sniff the culprit out...
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]

The crowds begin dispersing and you notice that many of the VIPs from before are approachable.
[ROUND 2]
[TURN] Edward
Shadrick Orcface: I walk back to the Arcade of Triumphs to get close to Maxillar.
Cedric: I follow Shadrick and try to get Maxillar's attention for a chat about politics and the plans of the imperialist faction.
Ivan: I return to the Duke and attempt to resume the conversation about Jadrishar Island.
Edward: I approach lady Gloriana and begin to regail her of tales of how magic can be used to enrich ones life. I'd like to find out more about her.
Valkian: Figuring that the guys have the princess protected, I head to the kitchen to look for a particular bottle of wine.
Arco Arboros: I approach Lady Gloriana and see if she'd like to discuss the intricacies of spellcraft.
Edward: Grease
Edward: Grease
Edward: Grease
Cedric: I change my mind and instead of talking to Maxillar I observe him instead and try to chat up the people who seem to know him, to learn more about him.
Edward: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+4] [d20+8 = 24]
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+4] [d20+6 = 12]
Arco and Edward catch Lady Gloriana's attention and the have a pleasant conversation about spellcraft and it's uses for everyday life. At first there was a bit of an awkwardness to the conversation but she warms up very quickly, especially to Edward as she starts to carry the conversation more.
She remains a bit guarded still, but seems to be pleasantly surprised with your company.
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge (Engineering) [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 9]
Ivan strikes up a pleasant conversation with the Duke and they go back and forth for a bit about Jadrishar, but as the conversation continues it becomes apparent that Duke Centimus is not particularly interested in military engineering, or at least doesn't seem to keen to continue discussing it for too much longer.
Shadrick Orcface: I try to overhear Maxillar's conversation.
Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 8]
Cedric tries to make some small talk in the Arcade of Triumphs, but has difficulty breaking into conversations as people seem more interested in taking a tour of the artifacts as the soldiers lead them around.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Stealth [d20-2 = 0]
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Shadrick Orcface: I try to approach discreetly and end up bumping the glass case containing a crossbow to my side. I manage to avoid breaking it by stopping it from wobbling with my hands.
Maxillar notices the blunder and moves his crew elsewhere with the pretext of explaining the finer details of a familiar artifact to his new friends.
Valkian: [SKILL] Appraise [d20+6 = 25]
Valkian easily finds the bottle of wine on a table. As he approaches some of the servants cast him curious glances.
Valkian: I tell a lie to the servants that someone asked me to pick this up for them.
Valkian: I changed my mind to say that I was asked to inspect it.
Valkian: [SKILL] Bluff [d20+6 = 11]

The servants shoot each other a few nervous glances and politely inform you that the bottle of wine is for a very important function and they cannot let anyone not authorized approach. They turn you away.
[ROUND 3]
[TURN] Edward
Cedric [Common]: I leave Maxillar's area and head over back to the princess. I take advantage of Edward's progress with Gloriana to talk to their hangers-on and find out more about the Princess.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric: I tell all my companions to first investigate their targets before moving in on them.
Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 14]
Edward: I shift my conversation topic towards Lady Gloriana's position on the senate and her political views, especially on the topic of the repeal of primogeniture, I'd like to find out what she knows of the topic and what her views are.
Cedric strikes up a few conversations with the people congregated in the gardens but most of the people left here don't seem to keen on talking politics as they wander around taking a gander of the animals and nature. What they know of the princess is just common knowledge of which Cedric is already aware.
Ivan: I try to draw the conversation with the Duke towards the topic of the primogeniture vote and to discern his position on the issue.
Edward: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+2] [d20+6 = 7]
Shadrick Orcface: I decide I'm tired about this 'cloak and dagger' approach. I'll just approach Maxillar's troupe, shove one of them until I have Maxillar in front of me, stay silent and observe him.
Edward steers the topic over to primogeniture and the Lady immediately brings up her defenses, giving him a wary look and dismissing talk of such boring things. She seems willing to keep talking to him however.
Ivan: [SKILL] Diplomacy [d20-1 = 13]
Valkian: I leave the kitchen and head to the the Senate Floor. I talk to the people surrounding the man wrapped in fur to get some information on him.
The Duke gives Ivan a weary glance, "Must we speak of politics? I came over here to the Archive to get away from all that for a while." He then starts fidgeting with his wheelchair.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Intimidate [d20-2 = 12]
Maxillar turns to look at Shadrick and retorts, "Well, well, what do we have here? I like a guy with guts, but you need to learn how to read the room. Now if you'll excuse me." He helps the man up and then takes his entourage elsewhere. The man thanks him profusely as he follows the Strategos.
Valkian: I changed my mind and went back to the kitchen.
Valkian: I do the coin trick again and try to entertain the servants.
Valkian: [SKILL] Sleight of Hand [d20+7 = 18]
At first the servants are not amused, but after a while they change their mind and accept the performance. Some of them are warming up to it and interested in the fact that a guest is bothering to entertain them at all. They don't talk to Valkian or let him too far into the kitchen, but they do tolerate his presence. He can't reach the wine bottle however.
[ROUND 4]
[TURN] Edward
Edward: I try to get Lady Gloria to talk about herself a bit, so I can figure out who she is, and what she does.
Edward: I talk to her about her popularity, and where it stems from.
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+6 = 14]
Cedric [Common]: I move back to Maxillar's new location in the Arcade of Triumphs and I try to get the room's attention by expounding forcefully on my ideas for Taldor's military and imperial renaissance.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Ivan: I try to find one of the others to get them to help me with a plan I have. I want one of them to create a distraction near the Duke, then wheel him off to somewhere more secluded where I can just threaten him to get the information I need.
Cedric: I tell Shadrick to stay away from Maxillar and to focus instead on the fur-wearing warrior in the senate floor.

Shadrick Orcface: I don't like receiving orders all of a sudden from a relative stranger, but I begrudgingly accept my utter failure at approaching Maxillar. I nod to Cedric and I head to the Senate Floor to approach the warrior.
Lady Morilla is a bit surprised that you want to talk about her but she indulges you. She starts showing considerable interest as she regales you with anecdotes about herself. After a while of pleasant chit-chat, she's suddenly struck with an idea. "Hey... have you ever met the princess? I get the feeling she would really love talking to you. Here, I'll introduce you."
Valkian: I thank the servants for their time and leave the kitchen. I head to the Senate Floor to talk to the the artist that the princess introduced. I wanted to ask about how he feels about having joined the nobility.
Cedric: I tell Ivan his plan is bad and to forget about it.
Shadrick Orcface: I like Ivan's eagerness, but there are a lot of phalanx guards in here. I point out to him that it's not a good idea to threaten these people.
Valkian: I also don't think Ivan's plan is good. But I tell him if he helps me with my mission I can spilt the money with him.
Edward: I introduce myself to the princess, and subtly look her up and down to see if I recognise her from anywhere, I begin to apologise that I missed her speech due to seeing some dangerous behaviour from a servant, I then tell her about that whole event, and asking her if she has any enemies.
Valkian approaches Kalbio and the man immediately perks up. It seems that most people have been avoiding him or giving him curt congratulations. He immediately jumps at the chance for a conversation. He is excited about the events and about visiting the “big city” for the first time in his life, and eagerly talks with Valkian about all the Opparan wonders he's seen that most residents find mundane. He constantly finds ways to link something his beloved mam and papa would say. Otherwise, he occasionally steers conversations into awkward discussions about his “purdy good” weaving skills.
Edward: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+2] [d20+6 = 16]
Ivan: I tell Valkian I'll help him out with his task once I'm done with mine. I go the archives and have a quick look around to see how many guards there are, and to try and identify an out-of-the-way spot I could take the Duke to.
A small laugh escapes her lips. The princess seems very amused that you didn't listen to her speech. She jokes about pretty much everyone being her enemy lately, but that she feels like she can trust you since you seem to have no interest in what she has to say, and you have the added benefit of an old friend vouching for you, a very rare occurence. Edward thinks the conversation is going well.
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Cedric: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+5 = 15]
Shadrick Orcface: I approach Ivan to whisper to him.
Shadrick Orcface [Common]: Ivan, Lady Martella tasked me with keeping all of you safe. But I'm not sure I can keep you safe from yourself.
[understood by: Shadrick Orcface, Arco Arboros, Edward, Cedric, Valkian, Ivan]
Cedric starts to gather a bit of a crowd. Some agree with his positions but he also gathers a couple of critics. A rowdy conversation breaks out between them all. Maxillar doesn't seem to be paying much attention at the moment as he discusses something with associates.
Edward: I introduce Arco as one of the guys who helped foil the plan of whoever was behind the actions of the guard.
Arco Arboros: Did someone mention my name?!
Ivan notices a few guards about. Quite a few in the senate chamber. It seems like it would be difficult to move the Duke without being noticed.
Shadrick Orcface: I intended to try my luck with the warrior in the Senate Floor, but now that I'm at the Imperial Archives, it occured to me that I could gain attention of the room with my knowledge of history.
Arco Arboros: I ask the princess how she feels about Cayden's influence on the actions of the youth in Taldor and how his worship affects the future of the country.
Shadrick Orcface: I recognize books and papyrus rolls besides the Duke. Confident that I can interject the conversation of his entourage, I try speaking my knowledge about them.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+2] [d20+4 = 11]
The princess doesn't seem particularly amused by Cayden and doesn't seem to think he's a good influence, most of the time. Though she does agree that he can be useful, at times. She steers the conversation away from religion.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Knowledge (History) [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 10]
Arco Arboros: I ask the princess how she feels about Taldor's relationship with the denizens of the Verduran Wood.
Ivan: Looking at the number of guards around the place, I decide to abandon the plan to kidnap the Duke. I instead head upstairs to try my luck talking to Countess Abrielle.
Shadrick Orcface: [SKILL] Profession (Soldier) [d20+6 = 26]
Shadrick brings up a topic of conversation based on the books but moments into the conversation the Duke interrupts him to thank him for his service, apparently noticing that you were a soldier. He asks you what you think of his disability.
Ivan: I start to mingle with the people around the Countess and try to see if I can gather any further information about her.
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [UNTRAINED] [d20+2 = 12]
Ivan has a difficult time speaking with the few nobles up in the Gallery, seeing as how they're constantly being interrupted by their children. He makes little progress.
Arco Arboros: I was enjoying the beautiful gardens and magnificent exotic creatures in the courtyard while sipping on wine, chatting up whatever pretty lady I could see while also trying to figure out if anyone knew where I could find Count Orlundo Zespire.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20-1 = 4]
People were generally staying away from Arco and his seemingly drunken antics, at least until he was introduced to the princess.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Diplomacy [+2] [d20+4 = 18]
"You truly are bold, friend Arco," states the princess. She gives you a serious look and then she suddenly laughs, "You are both very amusing, I must say. Definitely a breath of fresh air in this place. But alas, the people of RTaldor need me. Perhaps we may cross paths again later." The crowd looks at Arco and Edward in awe and then immediately break out into murmurs as the princess makes her way across the room to a new group of people.
[ROUND 5]
[TURN] Edward
All at once you feel an odd humming pressure in your heads and hear Lady Lotheed's words echo across your conscience, "Meet me on the second floor gallery. Don't dally."
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'CULTxExiledOne' disconnected