Edward shares his conversation with the Princess with the others.

Having heard Lady Martella's summons, Edward and Arco make their way through the throngs of people, past the Emperor's Hall and into the senate chambers. There they see Valkian talking with a very spirited Kalbio.

Ivan, having already been in the gallery when he received the summons, looks around and notices Lady Martella has sectioned off a small meeting area on the upper walkways. She has had the staff arrange a set of chairs and set a pot of fresh coffee.
Edward approaches Valkian and Kalbio.
Arco Arboros: What's new, Valk? And who's your friend here?
Valkian: Kalbio apparently. A local artist who has achieved a decent amount of noterity as of late.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Hello friends!
Edward: Congratulations Master Kalbio, it is an honor to make your acquaintance!
Arco Arboros: Greeting, Master Kalbio! I am Arco, a pleasure of course.
Kalbio gives Edward and Arco a wide smile.
Arco Arboros bows, but only slightly.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Thanks! Everyone is so nice today!
Ivan continues trying to influence the conversation around him while he waits for the others to arrive in the gallery.
Valkian: What have you two been up to?
Kalbio looks around with wide eyes and unconcealed wonderment at the proceedings.
Arco Arboros: Wining and reclining, of course. But I think we've other places to be. Official business...
Valkian: So I've heard.
Kalbio looks at Valkian, confused.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: I didn't hear nuthin'.
Edward: Just been talking to the Princess. Sadly it seems we still have no leads on to that event earlier.
Edward winks.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: The Princess?!
Arco Arboros: A very loveley lady...
Arco Arboros wistfully remembers her scent.
Kalbio gapes in awe at Arco and Edward.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: She really is purdy.
Edward: We'll have to catch up later Kalbio, I look forward to hearing of your exploits.
Edward: I am Edward by the way.
Valkian: It was nice meeting with you Kalbio. I wish you luck with you entering the ranks of the nobles. It seems it will be quite difficult though.
Arco Arboros: Yes, of course. Shall we be off?
Edward: Yes.
Edward heads upstairs.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh... ok. I'll see you fellas.
Kalbio seems a bit crestfallen at the revelation that you all have somewhere to be.
As you bid Kalbio farewell, you all make your way up the stairs and into the gallery. It doesn't take you long to notice Kalbio trying his best to follow inconspicuously. He's not doing a very good job of it.
Ivan begins recounting some of his heroic exploits to a group of children.
Ivan begins to amass a small group of children, mostly boys, that circle him with rapt attention. "Are you a soldier, mister?" asks one of the taller boys. You notice a wooden sword at his side, looped through his belt.
Ivan: I've seen my fair share of combat. Want to hear about it?
"Oh boy do we ever!" exclaims one of the boys. The others all speak up at once in a chorus of agreement.
They almost swarm Ivan in their excitement. A few of the other children near by perk up in interest.
Ivan tells them about the time his mercenary band sieged the hideout of a notorious bandit king, and their commander defeated him in single combat.
Ivan: [SKILL] Linguistics [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 14]
The children listen to the story for a bit, but some of the less enthusiastic start breaking away a bit before the end. By the time Ivan is finished with the story there are still a few children left, who smile and talk excitedly about the story to each other before being drawn away by a game the other children have started up in their absence.

At that moment, Ivan notices the others climbing up the steps, Kalbio in tow.
Arco Arboros [Elven]: [Translation] Our new friend seems interested in our exploits, friends...
Our new friend seems interested in our exploits, friends...
[understood by: Edward, Arco Arboros, Valkian]
Arco Arboros glances behind himself towards the stairs.
Ivan looks confused at Arco's strange mutterings.
Edward begins whispering to the others in the hopes Kalbio can't hear.
Ivan: Any luck this evening, friends?
Valkian [Elven]: [Translation] I'll take the fault for that. Should I deal with him?
I'll take the fault for that. Should I deal with him?
[understood by: Edward, Arco Arboros, Valkian]
Ivan: I fear I haven't made much progress.
Edward: We have a follower.
Edward: Arco, Ivan can't understand Elvish.
Arco Arboros: Neither can others within earshot.
Ivan: I see. Well, he looks harmless enough.
Arco Arboros [Elven]: [Translation] See if you can, Valkian. I don't trust him for some strange reason.
See if you can, Valkian. I don't trust him for some strange reason.
[understood by: Edward, Arco Arboros, Valkian]
You all catch glimpses of Kalbio peeking around the corner as he leans out a bit too eagerly and almost falls over, catching himself at the last minute.
Edward: Certainly looks harmless.
Valkian: I'll talk to him.
Edward: Don't be too rough, I kinda like the lad.
Valkian: Right.
Edward: I hope the other nobles don't tear him apart.
Valkian walks up to Kalbio.
Kalbio straightens up the second Valkian rounds the corner.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh hello there.
Valkian: Haha. Did I scare you?
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh no! Never!
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Have you finished your business?
Valkian: Just about, yes.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh good!
Edward: I'm afraid not Valkian.
Valkian: Ahh, it seems I was wrong.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Can I help?
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: I've been told I'm a good helper.
Kalbio grins from ear to ear.
Edward: Hmm...
Valkian: No, we've got it taken care of already.
Arco Arboros: Some more wine wouldn't hurt!
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh...
Edward looks towards Ivan and Arco.
Valkian: You should be trying to mingle with the nobles.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Wine? I can do that!
Arco Arboros: Splendid! Take your time with the selection!
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Diplomacy [d20+2 = 21]
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Right away! I'll get one of the best wines, to celebrate our new friendship!
Edward: Indeed.
Arco Arboros: Many thanks!
Ivan: Come on, we have a meeting to attend.
Kalbio turns and runs down the steps, almost tripping a couple of times and narrowly avoiding a few nobles making their way up the stairs.

At this point, you all notice the cordoned area where Lady Martella awaits. You see her grinning and clapping gently as she watches a juggler nearby, but as she notices your approach she hurriedly composes herself and dons her usual air of mystery. She motions for you all to take a seat.

Lady Martella Lotheed: Greetings, friends. How are you enjoying the gala this fine evening? Doing well on your... "tasks," I would hope, yes?
Lady Martella Lotheed: If you're wondering about your missing companions, worry not. Something's come up that requires their attention. It's likely you won't see them again for the remainder of the eve. If you need me to deliver them any messages, now would be the time.
Lady Martella motions to the pot of coffee.
Lady Martella Lotheed: But first, coffee?
Arco Arboros crosses his legs atop his seat and leans his staff against his shoulder.
Edward: I must admit I've just been getting my bearings around here, and haven't had much luck in my task in particular.
Arco Arboros sniffs deeply at the brew.
Ivan: [SKILL] Perception [d20 = 2]
Edward: [SKILL] Perception [d20 = 18]
Arco Arboros: I'm used to tea, but this will do. Many thanks, Lady!
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Perception [d20+11 = 22]
Valkian: [SKILL] Perception [d20+5 = 18]
Edward: Also we seem to have befriended Kalbio, he's following us around. He's probably looking for us.
As Lady Martella pours four cups of coffee, Arco, Edward, and Valkian notice another brass cricket, similar to the one she had set up at the cafe from earlier, adorning the nearby railing. It gives off a very faint hum.
Arco Arboros: Looking for wine, that is.
Valkian: Thanks to you. It wasn't planned but it worked.
Arco Arboros: That's my secret, Valk. I never plan.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Befriending Kalbio is a good move, I should think. The man needs all the help he can get, considering...
Lady Martella Lotheed: Treat him well, you hear me? I'll not have you treating him like the others.
Arco Arboros: That mechanical creature again. So fascinating...
Edward: Lady Martella, there was an incident in the courtyard. We've caught a servant on the brink of stirring up trouble with the bees there. Was this your doing? He said he was instructed to do so by a guard.
Valkian: It is yours, right?
Arco Arboros takes a sip of the coffee, taking his time to enjoy the scent much more so than the fairly bitter taste.
Valkian grabs a cup of coffee and takes a sip. It is quite hot.
Lady Martella Lotheed: That was most definitely not my doing, Edward. A very troublesome meddling. Very troublesome indeed. I have agents looking into it. I thank you for your assistance in the matter. It was clearly meant to sabotage the Princess's speech.
Lady Martella Lotheed: The crickets are indeed mine. You can never be too careful around here. There are ears everywhere.
Ivan sips quietly at his coffee.
Valkian: I'm guessing it blocks out sound?
Arco Arboros: They make such a strange sound, nothing like the crickets I know.
Lady Martella Lotheed: My agents tell me that you've been making quite an impression in the courtyard. I've also been hearing good things about you from the Princess herself. Very impressive work. It seems you've been working your charms on Duke Centimus as well.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Indeed they do, Valkian. I'm impressed you remembered.
Arco Arboros: I'm afraid I've yet to track down the first noble I'm to deliver a letter to, my dear Lady...
Lady Martella Lotheed: Lady Gloriana seems quite taken with you as well. The situation isn't as dire as you made it seem at first, Edward.
Edward: That's good to hear.
Ivan: I've made some progress with the old man, yes. I expect he'll reveal his position soon.
Valkian: My mission was also harder than it seemed. The maids are sharper than they look.
Ivan smiles politely.
Valkian: I may need a distraction.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Ahh yes, I find your progess with the missions a bit concerning. Thank you Ivan, that puts my mind at ease a bit.
Ivan: If not, then I'll find another solution, rest assured.
Lady Martella leans back in her chain and takes a few sips of her coffee as she looks out over the railing.
Edward: Perhaps we could get them to allow us to take a different bottle, but take that one instead?
Edward: How is your sleight of hand Valkian?
Lady Martella Lotheed: The night is halfway done, I would guess. Don't dally. Good idea, Edward. Let us discuss strategy if need be.
Valkian: I'm skilled.
Lady Martella crosses her legs and leans back in, conspiratorially.
Lady Martella Lotheed: How difficult can it be, honestly? It's one wine bottle.
Arco Arboros: Perhaps our new friend Kalbio can help with that?
Edward: Surely we don't even need to sneak it out actually. Just give it a quick jab with the needle.
Valkian: Understandable. It's more its position than the task itself.
Valkian: Kalbio's headed there now isn't he?
Valkian: That just might work.
Arco Arboros: He better be. This coffee is fine but my thirst can only be quenched in one way.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Let me remind you that Kalbio is not an agent. Be careful that you don't implicate him unnecessarily.
Valkian: I worry for your liver sometimes.
Arco Arboros: You worry too much. Why have a liver if not to live with?
Edward glances at Ivan to see his take on the half-elves.
Valkian: Of course, Lady Martella.
Ivan shrugs.
Arco Arboros wiggles his ears as he continues to smell the delicious fragrances of his beverage.
Lady Martella Lotheed: I didn't ask you here just to look over your shoulders and have a nice chat. We may have a situation. There's a young woman here: Malphene Trant, the daughter of Senator Trant. She's a belligerent, narcissistic ass, and a bully as well. If she's here, it's likely to intimidate one of more of the junior senators into backing her father. If one or more of you could keep an eye on her and... quietly intercede should she try, I would be quite grateful.
Arco Arboros: Quiet is more your forte, is it not Valk? Maybe we should focus on getting your job out of the way so that you can apply your skills in this next one?
Edward: I don't recall seeing her around.
Ivan: What do you all think of my 'backup plan' I mentioned for dealing with the Duke?
Arco Arboros: It's a wild plan, Ivan. And I like wild.
Edward: What was that again?
Ivan: We distract the guards, I wheel him to a secluded part of the library, and... ask him nicely about his position.
Arco Arboros: Lady Lotheed, this Orlundo Zespire gentleman, where would he be? I've yet to deliver his letter.
Edward: There are a lot of guards about, no?
Edward: I don't think that's a good idea.
Edward: I noticed he was having trouble with a wheel on his chair or something, perhaps we can get into his good graces by fixing his problem.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Orlundo Zespire can usually be found in the archives. Deliver the missive to him and then await his further instructions. Honestly, it's not a difficult task, though it may prove to be a bit tedious.
Arco Arboros: I must admit I've been enjoying myself a bit more than I should. I'll focus on my task, Lady.
Edward: I could try to help you butter him up Ivan.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Good, see that you do, Arco. This is a matter of great importance.
Arco Arboros: I'll head to the archives.
Arco Arboros finishes his cup and bows towards the Lady.
Ivan: Alright, let's try that first.

Lady Martella Lotheed: Ugh, speak of the devil...
Lady Martella motions delicately with her chin towards the stairway. You turn to see a towering, broad-shouldered athletic woman making her way into the gallery.
Lady Martella Lotheed: That, my friends, is the "Lady" Malphene Trant.
Edward raises an eyebrow.
Arco Arboros: Well, she seems...healthy.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Indeed. A little too healthy, if you ask me.
Arco Arboros: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20+1 = 8]
Ivan: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20-1 = 14]
Edward: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20+4 = 22]
Valkian: [ABILITY] Charisma check [d20+2 = 4]
Edward: Who's going to keep an eye on her? I was going to help Ivan with the Duke.
Arco recuses himself and walks down the stairs, heading down to the lower level.
Edward: Perhaps you could leave the Duke to me Ivan, and you keep an eye on her?
Valkian: I could do it as well perhaps, I am pretty good at being sneaky.
Ivan: Thanks for the drink, Lady Martella. Edward, let's go.
Ivan: Oh, and we mustn't forget to keep an eye out for that commoner with the wine.
Ivan smiles and gets up to leave.
Valkian: Thank you Lady Martella, now that I have a bit of a better plan. I'll give it another shot. Thanks for your help.
Edward: Alright Valkian, we'll change shifts later, if you're so good at sneaking surely you could quickly sneak into the kitchens after that and finish off the wine business?
Folder assets refreshed.
Edward: Thank you Lady Martella for the drink, I'll be off now.
Valkian: Haha, I won't fail twice.
Edward heads downstairs with Ivan.
Lady Martella Lotheed: See that you don't.
Ivan: Edward, let's take a quick detour to scout out the archives, in case that other plan becomes necessary?
As Archo heads towards the Imperial Archives he sees a stoic man at the reception desk organizing an array of documents spread out across it. He looks up at Arco expectantly as he approaches.
Edward: I wouldn't worry about that, I can loosen his tongue without the need for crude threats. But if it would ease your worries we could quickly take a look in there if it won't take too long.
Ivan: I just want to spend 30 seconds having a quick look around.
Ivan: See how crowded the place is, and whether there's anywhere secluded we could take the Duke to.
Edward heads over near the archives to quickly look around, then approaches Duke Centimus, mentioning Ivan, and how he noticed that something seemed wrong with his wheelchair earlier and if he could take a look at it.
The Duke looks up at you as you approach. He seems a bit confused at first.
Duke Leonard Centimus: I was unaware that there was anything wrong with my chair.
Duke Leonard Centimus: And if there was I would not need your assistance to handle my issues.
The Duke bristles a bit at the implication.
[TURN] Edward
Duke Leonard Centimus: So what, pray tell, is wrong with my chair? Hmm?
Ivan steps into the conversation.
Ivan: Please excuse my drunken friend, I think he meant to say that your chair is a very impressive piece of machinery, and could we perhaps take a look at it?
Edward examines the wheelchair.
Ivan: I see a lot of men injured in my line of work, and we were wondering if it might be possible to make more of these things.
Edward: [SKILL] Appraise [d20+2 = 21]
A closer look at his wheelchair shows that it is ornately designed, not just mechanically but also aesthetically. Whoever made this chair took great care in its design. The maintenance seems spotless as well.
Duke Leonard Centimus: Ah, I see. Go ahead.
Ivan: I wonder what craftsman you hired to create such an ingenious design?
Edward apologises saying that he must have been mistaken, the wheelchair is a masterwork, he is sure, even amongst such contraptions. Then asks if he was the one who made it.
Duke Leonard Centimus: A good friend of mine, and engineer. He has made this wonder possible. Though I do make adjustments myself. And I do a good job of it too!
The Duke chuckles, mostly to himself.
Duke Leonard Centimus: It's not often that people are interested in my wheelchair. Usually they have much more to say about my... condition.
Edward: Perhaps you could introduce me some time?
A frown starts to creep onto the Duke's face. He struggles with it for a bit and then it disappears, as if it had never been there in the first place.
Duke Leonard Centimus: Perhaps, I can. We shall see. Tonight promises to be a busy night.
Duke Leonard Centimus: I take it you're not here just to talk about my chair, eh?
Edward mentions getting to know famous people at the party, and that he is one of them, as a master craftsman. Craftsmanship is interesting to Edward, he says.
Duke Leonard Centimus: You have a good eye, lad.
Edward casually mentions the vote, wondering what he thinks of it.
Edward: What do you think of this repeal of the old law? I'm interested in what this craftsman has to say on the matter.
Edward: [SKILL] Diplomacy [d20+4 = 11]
Duke Leonard Centimus: Hmmm... I'd hardly think a craftsman would have an important take on the subject.
[TURN] Ivan
Duke Leonard Centimus: But... if you insist.
The Duke looks you up and down, silently judging you, before he speaks.
Duke Leonard Centimus: I believe that primogeniture, as it is currently worded in law, is erroneous. Any person is capable of rule should they be able to prove it, regardless of the condition or makeup of their body. Am I any less capable in matters of intellect than any other here? No. That is my position and I won't budge.
Edward: I see, thank you for your wisdom.
Ivan grins, pats Edward on the back, then heads off to the gallery.
Edward gives him a nod, then ruffles Oliver's feathers.
As Ivan makes his way up the stairs and into the gallery he almost runs right into Dame Trant, who gives him a harsh glare and scowls at him before turning back to another man and continuing her discussion.
Ivan goes to talk to Wyssilka.
Ivan: Hi there miss, your acrobatics are very impressive. Care to help me out with something?
Wyssilka extricates herself from a mess of rambunctious kids and looks up at you with a glint of interest in her eyes.
Wyssilka the Fantabulous: Oh? What, pray tell, do you have in mind, big guy?
Ivan: It's an old trick I saw some carnival folk pull off one time, I thought it might impress some of the ladies around here.
Wyssilka the Fantabulous: Then please, elaborate.
Wyssilka gives Ivan a winsome smirk.
Ivan: It's a feat of strength where I carry several people on top of me while standing on one hand.
Wyssilka the Fantabulous: Interesting. Very interesting!
Ivan: [SKILL] Diplomacy [d20+4 = 22]
Wyssilka the Fantabulous: Alright. Let's do this.
Wyssilka the Fantabulous: What should I do?
Ivan explains the trick to Wyssilka in detail.
Wyssilka giggles melodically as she hangs on Ivan's every word with great amusement.
The children all hush in anticipation as they begin to gather around.
Ivan gets himself ready as Wyssilka hypes up the performance and gathers a small crowd. Then, he quickly gets into a one-armed handstand position, and she climbs up his body and stands on his feet.
Ivan: +4 [d20+4 = 19]
The children gasp until the finale where they all break into cheer and applause. Wyssilka assumes a practiced stance as she bows. She winks at Ivan as a smile beams across her lips.
[TURN] Arco Arboros
Arco Arboros approaches the desk where Orlundo is.
Arco Arboros: Hello, good sir! Would you happen to be Count Orlundo Zespire?
The archivist looks up at Arco for a second or two, raises an eyebrow, then resumes his duties.
Count Orlundo Zespire: Yes, I am he.
Count Orlundo Zespire: Can I help you?
Arco Arboros: Well met! I've a letter for you, m'lord.
Arco Arboros reaches into the folds of his outfit and produces the missive. He hands it over.
Count Orlundo Zespire: Ah, I see.
The Count takes the letter surreptitiously and hides it in his clothes. He glances around a couple of times and then reaches down under the desk and produces another letter. He slides it across the table at Arco.
Count Orlundo Zespire: Deliver this to Senator Dou. You can usually find him in the gallery.
Arco Arboros: Yes, m'lord. A pleasant evening to you.
Arco Arboros bows slightly and makes his way to the gallery.
The Count nods his head in acknowledgement and returns to his duties.
As Arco turns to head towards the gallery an influx of nobles makes their way through the senate chambers, impeding his progress.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Escape Artist [d20+2 = 7]
Arco Arboros makes his way towards the gallery but is blockaded by a throng of nobles. Not wanting to make a fuss, he politely bows ever so slightly to each and every one he makes eye contact with.
[TURN] Valkian
As Valkian enters the servant area he sees Kalbio sulking in the corner. Kalbio brightens up considerably as he notices Valkian arrive, and he leaps to his feet.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: They won't give me no wine!
Valkian: Tragic.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: They don't know who I am.
Kalbio is on the verge of tears.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: I tried. I really did!
Valkian: I say you give them a piece of your mind. You're a noble now!
The servants glance over at this display and then promptly attempt to ignore it as they continue rushing about to complete their duties.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Yeah, I am aren't I? Yeah... YEAH!
Kalbio slaps his face a couple of times to psych himself up.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: What would I do without you, friend?
Kalbio marches over to the counter and demands wine. The servant girl at the counter gives him a deadpan look and then just says, "No." Kalbio immediately wheels about towards Valkian.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: See? See?
Valkian tells the servants that he is completing a task for a noble. It requires access to the kitchen.
Valkian: [SKILL] Bluff [d20+6 = 9]
The servants don't buy your argument and they shoo you out of the servants' area with a warning to stop bothering the staff.
Kalbio hangs around Valkian expectantly for a few moments and then the realization dawns on his face.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh... is this not part of the plan?
Valkian: Not exactly.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Oh.
[ROUND 2]
[TURN] Edward
Edward enters into the debate attempting to influence the room. He also tries steering the topic towards the vote of premogeniture.
The audience in the chamber is very eager to talk about primogeniture, as that has been the main focus of discussion throughout the night. They seem to never get tired of it, and Edward is certain that by this point every argument has already been made and circled back to at least once.
Edward: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [d20+6 = 15]
Edward spends some time arguing back and forth with some nobles eager to get into the gritty details.
[TURN] Ivan
Ivan thanks Wyssilka for the help, puts his armour back on, and goes to talk to Countess Abrielle.
Ivan: Good evening, Countess. I'm surprised to see someone as important as you hanging about in the gallery with the children.
Ivan gives her a big smile.
The Countess dismisses a couple of ladies vying for her attention and turns to Ivan as he approaches with a twinkle of amusement in her eye.
Countess Abrielle Pace: I was wondering when you would gather up the courage to speak to me. Don't think I haven't noticed you sulking about.
Ivan: Ah, you're far too observant.
Countess Abrielle Pace: Of course I am. I'm good at what I do.
Countess Abrielle Pace: You seem to be quite confident with children as well, by the way.
Countess Abrielle Pace: I saw what you did earlier with that... clown.
Ivan: Well, you know, they're usually easier to deal with than adults.
Countess Abrielle Pace: Interesting enough for children perhaps, but a bit droll for someone more sophisticated.
Countess Abrielle Pace: Very true.
Countess Abrielle Pace: So, what is it that you wish to speak to me about? Or do you perheps have... other ideas?
The Countess covers her face enticingly as she says this.
Ivan looks embarrassed.
Countess Abrielle Pace: You are easy to rattle for one so strong.
She laughs delicately.
The Countess gives Ivan a mischievous smile.
Countess Abrielle Pace: Well, you can't keep a lady waiting.
Ivan: Forgive me my lady, I'm unused to these sorts of social gatherings.
Countess Abrielle Pace: That much is obvious.
Ivan: I was wondering about a cousin of yours I know...
Ivan: [SKILL] Knowledge (Nobility) [UNTRAINED] [d20+2 = 7]
Countess Abrielle Pace: And which cousin would that be?
The Countess looks on Ivan with great amusement.
Ivan: Nevermind, perhaps it was someone else's cousin, but the point was that she had a son and a daughter. The son went off and got killed in a war, and now the daughter and the son's wife are fighting over the inheritance.
Ivan: [SKILL] Linguistics [UNTRAINED] [d20+1 = 8]
Countess Abrielle Pace: I fail to see the relevance of this discussion.
She stifles a yawn as Ivan starts to lose her attention.
[TURN] Arco Arboros
The entourage of nobles has cleared up long enough for Arco to take the stairs up to the gallery.
Arco Arboros: [SKILL] Knowledge [UNTRAINED] [d20-1 = 7]
Arco Arboros approaches the dapper man close to him.
Arco Arboros: Greetings, m'lord! I am looking for Senator Dou to give this letter to.
Senator Amadorian Dou: It seems you have found him. Well met.
Arco Arboros: Splendid! Here it is right here.
Senator Amadorian Dou: Excellent. I thank you for your services.
Arco Arboros digs through his clotes and offers him the letter.
The man takes the letter and tucks it away. He waves a quick farewell as he turns and walks away.
At that same moment, Arco can hear the badge activate as Lady Martella's voice echoes in his mind, "Ah, good. You're here. Saves me the trouble. I need to speak with you."
Arco Arboros nods as he hears these words and seeks the Lady out.
Arco Arboros: Yes, m'lady?
Lady Martella Lotheed: Sit, please. Don't be uncivilized.
She motions to one of the empty chairs in front of her.
Arco Arboros: Ah, of course! It can be difficult to shake off old habits...
Arco Arboros sits, folding his legs into a lotus as he does.
Lady Martella Lotheed: I have another letter I need you to deliver: a message to Lady Glorianna Morilla in the courtyard. I believe you're familiar with her?
She slides a letter across the table.
Arco Arboros: Yes, I believe I spoke to her earlier in the gardens.
Lady Martella Lotheed: Good, then it should be easy.
Arco Arboros takes the letter and files it away into his shirt.
Lady Martella Lotheed: That is all. Unless you have questions? If so, keep them quick.
Arco Arboros: Not at the moment. I shall go to my task then.
Arco Arboros rises from his seat and bows before making his way to the stairs.
[TURN] Valkian
Valkian heads to the servants' quarters to find an outfit.
Valkian notices a door leading to an area behind the counter which looks like it might lead to some living quarters.
Kalbio follows along behing Valkian as he nears the door.
Valkian: [SKILL] Stealth [d20+10 = 28]
Valkian briskly walks through the doors while the servants are busy attending to other matters.
Valkian quietly shuts the door, confident in having infiltrated successfully. As he turns to continue into the makeshift gathering area he hears the door start to creak open and then some shouts as a bunch of footsteps approach the door Valkian just came through.
Valkian approaches the door to see what the commotion is about.
Valkian: [SKILL] Perception [d20+5 = 23]
Valkian peers through the small opening gap between the door and the frame and sees Kalbio struggling with some servants as they try to pull him away from the door.
Kalbio of Breezy Creek: Wait, I have to go in there!
One of the servants approaches the door.
He reaches out a hand to open it.
Valkian opens the door.
The servants gasp audibly as Valkian comes into view.
"I thought we told you not to interfere with us. Leave! Get out of here before we call the guards!" says the head servant struggling with Kalbio. Kalbio just grins sheepishly.
Valkian's quick assessment of the situation shows three servants. Two holding Kalbio and one standing, mouth agape, at the door.
Valkian tells the servants that Kalbio was interested in one of the servant girls and he was taking him to meet her but they got lost along the way. We saw her walk that way but we don't know where she went. Since his ascension to the noblitliy he has been thinking about getting a wife but he doesn't mingle well with the nobility as of now.
Valkian: [SKILL] Bluff [d20+6 = 10]
The head servant, fuming, yells, "I've had enough of this nonsense! We're wasting precious time and the nobles will not be as lenient as I!" He motions for the other servants to drag you out to the senate chambers. The two servants approach you.
Kalbio takes this opportunity to head to exit the servants' quarters.
The two servants drag Valkian out to the senate chamber and leave him there unceremoniously.
[ROUND 3]
[TURN] Edward