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{{chaptoc|AWRR|8}} ==Summary== : Session date: 2023-05-08 Ardith Aethlin invites Victorina to her office to inform her that they are moving forward with a proposal to create a framework for Ebemar's inclusion into the Confederacy. progress! Victorina gets invited to a meeting about it. Hopefully she understands that this is her life now. Leonora invites Yadda for breakfast and they talk about what the next season might look like for Yadda. Hopefully fewer demons. Katherina and Lavinia go dress shopping in advance of the wedding. They talk about Vinnie's plans for the future and how she is living the dream of being her own person and WITH a super hot partner! #Winning! Leonora gets Thurston to admit he wrote the letter and then instills a self-destructive paranoia that he is about to be caught. Note: This leads to his being caught. Lamont and Nik turn to Coifárë for help after getting caught up in a protest turned violent (with a little help and some well placed coins from Thurston), disrupting their morning-after canoodling with an opera singer. Nik manages a little divine healing and Coifárë takes care of the rest of Lamont's injuries. Meanwhile, Rose and Juno enjoy the museum, wondering where the boys are, until they unexpectedly run into Rose's mother. Definitely a coincidence, 100% Chitara stops by to apologize to Lamont for the assault, and is relieved when he doesn't feel like she or her cause are responsible. Almost like he knows there was something else going on :V Nik drops in to see Callisto, and learns a few surprising things about the publishing industry that he might have rather not learned! Still he promises to keep her updated about his next book, which he will definitely have time to work on soon 100%. Nothing else on his schedule... Zanne invites Lamont to an Extremely Formal meeting to tell him that their uncle is under Super Arrest and pretty much everything he has ever dared to want in his life is now on the table. Somehow he manages not to cry. Lamont tells Nik the extremely good news and again, somehow manages not to cry (but barely). Nik is very excited: it's going to be a summer wedding after all, and they won't be separated by Lamont's military obligations! Leonora and Magga invite Lamont over to tell him that they would like to offer him the position as babbydaddy, and they discuss the possible terms. Baby swap, anyone? She also lets him know of her role in Thurston's arrest. Good riddance! Lamont and Nik invite Coifárë to Lamont's place to tell them the good news, invoke their help with the wedding, and invite them to live with them in Ahkas. Awwww :3 ==Session== ===Victorina Discusses Politics With Ardith=== Josh: (Could have done the setup for this as epistolary, actually, but, ah well, did not think of it) Ardith Aethelin: will send a letter to Victorina to try to set up a meeting at her office in the Parliament complex. Victorina: Victorina will arrive at the appointed time in her best suit with a bulging satchel Josh: A young shifter woman will greet Victorina upon her arrival, and see her into the office, walking with a noticeable limp. Ardith Aethelin: is waiting in her office, and stands to greet Victorina with a smile. Ardith Aethelin: Ms. Allement, thank you for coming. Victorina: "The honor is mine for the invitation." Ardith Aethelin: Please, have a seat. Would you like something to drink? Coffee, tea? Victorina: "Some tea will be lovely." Ardith Aethelin: Saiya? Saiya Harrowden: On it, back in a bit. Ardith Aethelin: smiles and shakes her head a little as Saiya exits. Ardith Aethelin: I hope it wasn't too arduous a trek up here. Victorina: "Not too difficult, I assure you. I'm use to long walks." Ardith Aethelin: If nothing else, Highmark is good exercise. Ardith Aethelin: So, I have to confess I have something of an ulterior motive for asking you here today. I did want to speak with you about some upcoming legislation, but I also very much wanted you to be seen coming to my office to discuss the same. Victorina: "Oh? What legislation are you referring to?" Ardith Aethelin: It's a motion to create a framework for an Ebemari application for Confederacy membership. Victorina: Victorina internally: https://tenor.com/view/run-through-happy-running-fans-crowd-gif-14962817 Josh: (Heh) Ardith Aethelin: It's far from a done deal, but I'm hoping our meeting her will signal how seriously this is being taken. Josh: (here*, not her) Victorina: "Of course, of course. It's a step in the right direction." She settles the satchel on her lap. "Is there anything in particular you want to discuss?" Ardith Aethelin: Well, I do want to caution you that this going to be a long, uphill battle, both here and back home for you. There will be benchmarks Ebemar will need to meet, and it will have to demonstrate its internal support for the move. Victorina: "My presence here should be a good indicator of Ebemar's desire to join the Confederacy. What benchmarks need to be met?" Ardith Aethelin: Well, as I'm sure you know, the Confederacy takes a dim view of the practice of slavery, for instance. Victorina: "Right, right." She's taking notes. Ardith Aethelin: Ebemar would need to take steps to eliminate the practice before membership could be seriously considered. There's also security concerns, parliamentary arrangements to consider...It's a complex issue, and somewhat unique despite several new states having joined recently. Ardith Aethelin: I did want to ask... Ardith Aethelin: I love my country, but our history in your homeland is...rocky at best. Are you certain this is in Ebemar's best interest? Victorina: Victorina sets down her pen and puts all the papers aside. "My belief is that for now, joining the Confederacy is the better option for us in the long run. True, we're incredibly stubborn which can be a boon sometimes. However, we do not have the...mettle to back such pride." Ardith Aethelin: nods contemplatively. Victorina: "We need the reputation that being a member of the Confederacy can bring us, and the protection that'll make hostile neighbors think twice or even thrice about taking our territory for themselves." Victorina: "I understand joining the Confederacy forces Ebemar to restructure a great deal many things. But it's changes that need to happen." Ardith Aethelin: There are those, myself included, who have reservations about getting involved in any sort of military conflict in Ahkas again, but I recognize those sorts of commitments are part and parcel of this agreement. Ardith Aethelin: My fervent hope is we can prevent any sort of hostility. Victorina: "Exactly. Sometimes the threat is enough to keep the peace." Ardith Aethelin: nods. Ardith Aethelin: You're confident a referendum in Ebemar would support membership? Victorina: "Yes." Ardith Aethelin: Well, I suspect you'll have your work cut out for you regardless, much as we will here. Ardith Aethelin: Councilor Tiobraide will be introducing the motion in committee in the next few days, and we'll begin this whole process. Victorina: "All right. Will this meeting be available for public view?" Ardith Aethelin: I'm sure we can arrange for you to be present, if you like. Committee meetings aren't usually open to the public, but clearly you're not a random lay person. Victorina: She nods, "I understand. Thank you." Ardith Aethelin: You're quite welcome. I'm sure we'll be working together more in the coming days. Saiya Harrowden: will return with tea, and Ardith will happily discuss the political landscape re: the bill. ===Leonara and Yadda Discuss Her Future Prospects=== Leonora: has invited Yadda over for breakfast at our Inglenook apartments. Yadda: will arrive promptly at the appointed time. Leonora: Yadda, dear, how good to see you! Leonora: embraces you warmly. Yadda: will hug Leonora gently. Yadda: Very well, thank you, aunt. Although, I must confess it has been somewhat less exciting since we returned from the spa. Leonora: Well, I would hope so! Therma Alba is not normally such vigorous exercise. Yadda: Well, I don't know if | would want to do it again, but it was interesting to actually put some of my training to use for once. Leonora: I know that the Amathalis family was very grateful for all our help in the defense of the baths. Yadda: I am sorry that their resort became the place of such an incident. Was anything ever found about the cause of the violence? Leonora: Well, a little more, yes. It appears that the demons and cultists knew some of the high-value targets who would be there. It was not random, in other words. Leonora: But more than that ... well, there is an investigation ongoing. I should not say too much more. Yadda: I understand. Leonora: So ... the season is almost done. And I would not be doing my duty if I did not guide you along the way from time to time. Leonora: I'm presuming that you have not secretly been arranging your own marriage behind the scenes? Leonora: says in what you hope is a joking tone. Yadda: smiles. Yadda: No, I can't say that I have, but it has been more interesting of a season than I had thought at first. Leonora: Well, as you know, bringing you here this year wasn't about making a match. I think it's been a tremendous success, really. Leonora: Now, I imagine your grandfather would not have been opposed to a union this year. So my first piece of advice to you is that we should come up with something that sounds vaguely promising for next year, without committing ourselves to anything. For the old man, you understand. Yadda: Hmm, did you have something in mind? Leonora: Well, I wanted to ask you. It could be as simple as, you met some female friends who have eligible brothers. Leonora: You don't want to say anything about some man who might actually be betrothed in the next months. That would suggest to Hruggek that we failed. Yadda: I see... I think. Yadda: So nothing too specific, then. Leonora: Right. I can have Nerea make you a list. She's very good at that. Yadda: nods. Leonora: Just names of families where you met one member at an event here. Leonora: She may bombard you with detail, but the family won't care about all that too much. Leonora: What they want to hear is that goblin races are treated with respect and dignity, and that you personally are as well, at the season. Leonora: If they hear otherwise... well, I don't need to explain how that would be bad. Yadda: Well, that shouldn't be too hard. Everyone has been most welcoming. Yadda: More so than I expected, honestly Leonora: I don't know for certain whether I'll be here next year. I may, or I may be back in Nachtur. Yadda: Will I be expected to come back... alone? Yadda: If you are not here, that is. Leonora: Most certainly not! You would have an attendant, at least. Yadda: nods. Leonora: I have every confidence in you, dear. When your grandfather started out in the streets of Highmark, he faced endless challenges. These are different, but it is what Wengals do. Leonora: And someday, perhaps you will be helping my son or daughter as they come out for their first season. Yadda: smiles at that. Yadda: I still don't know about making this place my home, but I suppose another season wouldn't kill me. Leonora: The season doesn't kill people. Demons do. Yadda: sighs. Yadda: Demons I can handle. Yadda: Social events are a higher level encounter, so to speak. Yadda: I assume my friends Grega and Loriel will be pestering me for details on my time here when I get back. At least I have some good stories to tell them. Leonora: Perhaps one of them will join you next year. Leonora: That could be wonderful, especially if they're less attractive than you. Leonora: says, deadpan. Yadda: laughs. Yadda: I suppose that depends on one's tastes. Yadda: But perhaps I can arrange it when I'm home. Yadda: speaking of which.... I don't suppose you've heard anything about whether Leid Vilyawen has made a match this season? Leonora: I haven't ... but I would be surprised if they did. Why? Yadda: shrugs. Yadda: Just pondering my plan of attack for next season. Leonora: That's the attitude. It is a military operation, and the stakes are potentially even greater. Yadda: Well, the best defense is a good offense, I suppose. Leonora: Speaking of which, it will behoove you to keep abreast of the latest fashions. Were you happy with your dressmaker this year? We can find another. Yadda: They were serviceable, but I did have to go back a few times to have them let out in the shoulders. And the one I wore to the spa obviously did not survive well at all. Perhaps in the future I should make sure to have them made with room for a weapon of some sort and more room to move. Just in case. Leonora: laughs. Leonora: Well, your grandfather and uncle would approve of that, certainly. Leonora: Although there is some value in ... conformity, I suppose you would say ... it is also important to highlight your own values and personality. Leonora: After all, a marriage entered into under false pretenses is hardly likely to survive. Yadda: That's the strange part. It seems like there is so much deception around all of this. All the pageantry and social fascades. It's like everyone has collectively decided to make it as difficult on each other as possible when the goal should be to get to know one another honestly. Leonora: nods. Leonora: Honesty is in short supply among the elite of Highmark, I'm afraid. Leonora: That's unlikely to change. Yadda: Mmmm... Yadda: Well, I suppose I'll have to manage. Thank you and uncle Magga for helping me navigate this. I really do appreciate it. Leonora: Magga's been glad to have you here. If only because it's made me so happy to be here for you as well. Yadda: smiles Yadda: gives her aunt another hug ===Lavinia and Katherina Go Wedding Shopping=== Lavinia: will recruitKatherina for a shopping trip and borrow the carriage from their mother for the purpose. Katherina: Are we shopping for your engagement party? Annoncement? Portaits? Looking for wedding ideas? What's the goal? :D Lavinia: Oh, all of them at once, I suppose! We don't have a lot of time honestly. I don't know what we were thinking asking for a midsummer wedding! Lavinia: It sounded like a good idea at the time! Katherina: oh no, see, now we can make sue everything is nicely themes running up to your dress reveal ^-^ Lavinia: Well, I need a dress first! Katherina: yes but that's what i mean! I we find smethign I klike then you can put little hints of whats to come inthe other ensembles, like colours or lace or prints or what have you :D What colour dress do you want for your wedding? have you discussed it with mother? Lavinia: Well, white is traditional, but... it's so boooring. I think I want something more colorful. Mother has left the details to me for the most part. I think she's just happy to have me engaged again. Katherina: Well your groom is very red - so something that would look pretty with that? Katherina: Do you think it could be arranged for him to show some of his tattoos? Hmmmm Katherina: your guests need to be appropriately jealous ;) Lavinia: Ooooh... If I know Gueiris, he could probably be persuaded. Lavinia: He is quite daring Katherina: oh yes I was thinking more of mother. And you, I'm so glad you woudl even consider it! :D Lavinia: Hmmm... I suppose I wouldn't have considered it a few months ago, would I? Katherina: No! And I'm so happy! Tis has done you so much good - you are thinking about what you want and what makes you happy instead of just accepting whatever mother and everyone else says. Even at the beginning of the season you just just resigned to everything, and now I hardly feel I need to worry about you at all :3 Lavinia: laughs. Katherina: have you decided where you will live? Wil you be staying in Highmark? Lavinia: Surely I haven't changed that much have I? I suppose nearly being eaten has a way of focusing ones attention. Lavinia: We want to travel. Gueiris will be moving around with his position and I will go with him. At least for now. Eventually we will settle down somewhere, but we're not really sure yet. It's really quite freeing. Lavinia: And don't worry about me, Kitty. I'm more worried about you being left alone with mother! Katherina: laughs Katherina: I think you should worry for mother being left alone with me ;) Lavinia: I can do both. Katherina: You've always been the well behaved one. Lavinia: Well, I won't argue with that, although you have always been the more fun one 😉 Lavinia: Have I ever told you how much I admire you Kitty? You've always had a bravery and a lightheartedness that I could never really match. Lavinia: But then, you've never killed a demon, so I suppose now we're even. Katherina: well, I never had a chance! And to my credit I also didn't kill an Aethrenari prince, which I think shows quite a bit of uncharacteristic restraint. So perhaps we're falling into balance ^-^ Lavinia: laughs Lavinia: I think they call that growing up. Katherina: Yuck! Dull. ;) Katherina: I have plans to remain a much more interesting person. Lavinia: Well, we'll see about that. Lavinia: 😉 Lavinia: Oh! I believe that's Madam Bellweather's dress shop ahead. Katherina: Is that where we are headed, then? Lavinia: For a start. She's one of the few in this part of town who specializes in halfling dresses. We can at least look at some samples. Lavinia: will signal to the coach driver to let them off and leadKatherina into the shop where they can browse the dresses. Katherina: Of course! ===Leonora Corners Thurston=== Leonora: will have written ahead to plan her visit for a day when Thurston is likely to be alone (except for his staff of course) Thurston Allard: is often alone now that Lamont has moved out, he tends not to Entertain at home, so this is pretty easy Leonora: will arrive, dressed in a long green dress and her pearls, nothing to suggest that she is here on Business. Leonora: Mr. Allard, it's a pleasure to see you once again. Thurston Allard: It is delightful to see you, Lady Wengal. To what do I owe the pleasure? Leonora: smiles. Leonora: Well, I wanted to talk about Therma Alba. If you have a few minutes. Thurston Allard: Seems confused but not worried right now Of course, yeah, It was a horrific attack, I'm very grateful that my nephew and my soon to be inlaws were not seriously harmed Leonora: Oh, what wonderful news! Your family and the Amathalis must be overjoyed! Leonora: Lord Evenor is a fine young man. And his father is very sensible. I had a long discussion with him in the aftermath of the attack. Thurston Allard: Oh, were you a guest at the time as well? I was unaware you were acquainted with the Amathalises Leonora: Of course! I grew up in Thantopolis, and much of my family is still there. My family has long been friends with them, although young Nikession, I only met this year. Leonora: And yes, my husband and I were guests at the time of the attack. We saw much, and learned much. Thurston Allard: Do you mean to imply you have an idea of how that attack came to be? I would be delighted to hear anything you are at liberty to share. Leonora: Hmm. Leonora: Do you know Fyan Sir Akan Sinan Nabari? Thurston Allard: Passingly? We have met but not much more than that. I had heard that he was there at the time of the incident. Leonora: Yes. In the aftermath of the event, he has come to believe that he was a target of the cultists. One of several, it seems. Leonora: But needless to say, Nabari is not a man to be trifled with. He is older, but that has simply given him more fire in his heart to root out the perpetrators and anyone who would interfere with them. Thurston Allard: I imagine so. I've heard he's a fierce combatant. I would never want to make an enemy of Fyan Nabari, personally. I almost pity anyone who did. Leonora: Hmm, yes. Leonora: You see, there's just one thing that is bothering him more than anything else. Leonora: Amidst the belongings of one of the cultists was found a letter, an encrypted letter in fact, describing the targets of the attack. As he puts it, it was in a cipher that is one of ours. That is, an old Sentinel house cipher. Thurston Allard: Thurston's eyes go wide in horror Have you seen it? I'm afraid.. well, I may have spoken more than I should have in a letter. Is that why your here? Leonora: What do you mean? Leonora: Are you saying you wrote a letter? Thurston Allard: nods, clearly ashamed and embarrassed I did, yes. I had thought that I could trust its recipient, but even so it might have gotten lost or stolen. Leonora: Who was the recipient? Thurston Allard: An old friend in Thanatopolis. (insert random NPC name here). We went to school together, and I had intended to be bragging on the company my nephew was keeping. Leonora: Well I'm sure that Nabari has already talked to them. I know he was talking to everyone. Leonora: Having fought beside him at Therma Alba, I assure you that he's ferocious. Leonora: When he comes to talk to you, you'll want to be able to answer two things for him. First, why the letter was written in an old Sentinel cipher, or any cipher at all. If it was just a letter boasting about your nephew. Leonora: But then, you were always a bit odd. Maybe it was just an overabundance of caution. Leonora: Or maybe you always write your letters to your friend in cipher, a vestige of your childhood friendship when you would write little nonsenses to one another. I'm sure he'll have confirmed that for you. Thurston Allard: Well, you know me. Thurston smiles and shrugs I have always been an overly cautious man. Were I not... things might have been quite different. Leonora: Of course. Leonora: The other thing you'll want to be able to answer is why a man you barely know except 'passingly', and who apparently you only heard - somehow - was there at the incident, featured notably in your letter about your nephew, who doesn't even know Nabari. Because I assure you that Nabari is going to ask. Chitara: hta frowns I hope you don't seriously think I had anything to do with this. Leonora: I think your letter gave the cultists information about a number of high-value targets who would be present at a major social event. Leonora: I think that fact is going to be revealed, publicly, very soon. Leonora: I also think that the fact that your dear nephew is engaged to marry the son of the hosts of Therma Alba, themselves of unimpeachable conduct, is going to look very, very odd to many people. Leonora: So you should start thinking of your story, very fast. Thurston Allard: raises an eyebrow Why should my nephew's match raise eyebrows? They are a reasonable match. Leonora: Because the attack caused irreparable damage to his parents' estate, which will one day be his. Leonora: Perhaps you were trying to put an end to the union before it began? I don't know what society will say, but I assure you it won't be "oh, that poor Mr. Allard, he has had such coincidental misfortune in his vicinity." Thurston Allard: Am I to understand an official investigation is underway? Or do I have time to salvage my reputation beforehand? Leonora: There is an investigation underway, yes. Across the intelligence authorities of Thantopolis, Nachtur, Highmark, and possibly others. Leonora: As you know, the Sentinels are not going to take such a breach lightly. Even if they believe that it was accidental. Leonora: Honestly Nabari may not care. He's spent his life killing demons and cultists ... and their allies. Thurston Allard: pales a bit Surely he would not be so unreasonable as to attack someone extrajudicially Leonora: I believe the new six-inch scar on his abdomen has given him a refreshed view of extrajudicial action. Leonora: How adept are you at crying for mercy upon demand, Mr. Allard? Good? Or ... not so much? Thurston Allard: If you will excuse me, you've given me much to think about and do, I do not think now is the time to continue entertaining a guest. Leonora: Of course. Oh, I almost forgot. There is a third question you should be asking. Leonora: That is: having had a conversation with a woman who is publicly well-known to have a dragonmark that ensures the secrecy of conversations from scrying. Leonora: Why would she have such a sensitive conversation with you and not invoke her dragonmark? Which I assure you, I have not. Leonora: Just something to ponder, Mr. Allard. Leonora: I do hope our conversation has not been overheard. Thurston Allard: frowns As much as I have enjoyed the chance to see an old... friend, I'm afraid I am unfamiliar with the manners you have picked up in your new home. Good day, Lady Wengal. The servants will see you out Leonora: Good luck, Thurston. Leonora: heads out. Thurston Allard: rushes out, fuming ===Nik and Lamont Go to Coifárë For Help After The Riot=== Nik: holds onto Lamont in the carriage and tries to see how injured he is, once we are out of immediate danger Nik: Lamont? can you hear me? stay awake, okay? stay with me... Lamont: takes a gasping breath Nik: is trying very hard not to panic, and puts his hands on Lamont's wounds to try and stop the bleeding. Lamont: winces but doesn't move away Lamont: N....nik Nik: please... I can't stop it by myself... gods, please let him be okay, that's all I ask.... Nik: is startled when that actually seems to do something, his touch briefly filling with divine power and Lamont's injuries healing. Nik: oh! Nik: Lamont? are you okay? Lamont: relaxes slightly Lamont: oooh... Lamont: tries to sit up, but winces, lyin back down in Nik's lap Lamont: I'm alright Nik: just stay still, I'm going to take you to Coifare, they can help you... Lamont: I'm an idiot - I'm so sorry Nik: no, no, it's not your fault Nik: you couldn't have known something like that would happen Lamont: that's not true Nik: shh. we're safe now, and it's going to be okay. Lamont: nods Nik: will look out for where this place Coifare was going to be staying should be located, hoping the driver has some idea because he's really not that familiar with the city. Josh: (I'm gonna say it's the same place as the party they took the boys to way back in the second session.) Lamont: what did you do? ? Nik: I don't really know... I just asked for help. Lamont: nods Lamont: Thank you Nik: did it help? 😮 Lamont: smiles up at Nik, still lying in his lap Lamont: it did Lamont: and you got me out of there... somehow Nik: I just grabbed you and pulled you back into the carriage... I don't know how I had the strength, really. Lamont: My hero Lamont: smiles, but closes his eyes again Nik: is flustered but smiles back and strokes Lamont's hair to try to help him relax Josh: A young half-elven woman with tousled curly hair, perhaps somewhat familiar to you, answers the door. Silima: Oh my gods! Are you all right? Nik: Um, somewhat? Is Coifare here? Lamont: (Am I with you or still in the carriage?) Nik: (I'd bring you with me, assuming you can walk) Lamont: (okay) Lamont: is holding it together but does look a little concerningly bloody and pale and a but beat to shit in general Silima: Yes, they're...sorry, come in, come in. Lamont: ...Apologies for the intrusion Silima: Coifare! Silima: Do you need to sit, or lay down or...? Lamont: oh... Coifárë: comes into the room wearing a robe, then immediately looks horrified. Coifárë: Lamont! Coifárë: rushes over to help him. Lamont: I'm alright Coifárë: What happened? Nik, are you okay? Nik: I'm fine, Lamont is hurt... I think...? Lamont: nods Coifárë: Come on, sit down. Lamont, what happened to you? Lamont: There's riots Coifárë: Riots? Where? Over what? Coifárë: gets Lamont sitting down and begins looking him over. Coifárë: Did you already get some healing? Lamont: Some... Lamont: looks at Nik Lamont: touches his shirt where there is a lot of blood but not currently an open wound Nik: I... I'm not sure what happened. I didn't know what else to do so I put my hands where he was bleeding, thinking maybe I could stop it if I applied pressure, but ... I asked for help from the gods, and maybe it worked? Nik: is still shaken up Coifárë: Nik...either your dragonmark is showing new abilities, or someone answered your prayers. Coifárë: I'll just finish the job. Nik: please Lamont: (actually I'm gonna say he lost his coat at some point during all this, heh) Coifárë: will place their hands on Lamont and there is a soothing release as the wounds knit back together and heal. Lamont: takes a deep and easy breath Lamont: Thank you. Coifárë: Of course. Coifárë: will touch their forehead to Lamont's for a moment. Lamont: smiles at that Coifárë: Well, that was a dramatic way to begin my day. Lamont: Apologies, truly Coifárë: (to Nik) I take it he was trying to be heroic? Lamont: says to them and to our host Lamont: (WAS THAT IN eLDUAR? :v) Lamont: (cl but lol) Silima: Luckily, I can say this is a first, but I'm glad you're all right. Josh: (Nope, that was in common 😉 ) Nik: I'm not really sure exactly what happened... it seemed very sudden to me. Nik: I didn't even make it out of the carriage, perhaps Lamont had a better view of the scene? Lamont: tries to make himself look a little mor presentable, but this is somewhat of a challenge Coifárë: What was going on? Silima: Was it...near here? Lamont: looks to Nik Silima: says in a worried voice. Nik: near the city museum... Lamont: Ostensibly, it was a rally for inclusions of the Akasic states, but there were agitators in the crowd who pushed them towards violence. Coifárë: frowns. Coifárë: That's not good... Coifárë: Above and beyond all this, of course. Coifárë: You truly have to stop getting into these sorts of situations, at least within friendly cities, at least. Lamont: glances at Silima Lamont: I agree Lamont: I would rather like it to stop. Lamont: rubs his temples Silima: gives Lamont an unsure smile. Silima: Can I get you some water or anything? Lamont: Thank you, I would be very grateful Silima: will go do that. Coifárë: Thank the gods I was here. Coifárë: I mean, Nik stabilized things, but still. Coifárë: goes to hug Nik comfortingly. Lamont: I should have known Coifárë: Known what? Lamont: I've had a headache since the... engagement dinner and it' only beet getting worse, Lamont: Ughhh, I sound like... a mad person Nik: you think he had something to do with this? Nik: asks, being a bit cautious with his word choice since he doesn't know Silima well Coifárë: My first instinct is to say this seems a bit much, but, considering the attack at Therma Alba... Lamont: (Did we tell coifare about that? I suppose we coudl have done it off screen either way :x) Josh: (Yeah, we can assume so.) Lamont: I think so? for it ti happen then, there, with people place to cause serious escalation.... Lamont: I've been in anything like that before, though... most of the crowd didn't know what they meant to do until they were in the midst of it. Coifárë: frowns. Silima: You're welcome to wait here for the time being, if you like. Silima: says, coming back with water for Lamont. Lamont: oh, thank you. Lamont: will take that and drink immediately Silima: I can give you all some privacy if you need it... Nik: yes, thank you - sorry to put you to this trouble Coifárë: steps over to kiss Silima on the cheek. Coifárë: (elduar) You're a sweetheart. Silima: smiles, gives Lamont a worried look, and begins walking into the next room. Silima: I should get dressed for real anyway. Coifárë: What do you want to do? Lamont: I'm not suree. I expect I should... report something... somewhere... Coifárë: Your cousin, maybe? Marchioness Lownmont? Lamont: nods Lamont: yes, that woudl make sense Lamont: I'm sure there's been a response mounted already Coifárë: I would imagine. So your responsibility is to take your suspicions to Lownmont, right? Nik: do you want me to go with you? Lamont: looks down at his bloody cloothing Lamont: Yes. A witness will be useful.... Nik: nods Coifárë: Would it look untoward if I went with you both? Lamont: well. Surely you're just another kind of witness, since you healed me... Coifárë: nods. Coifárë: I'd just prefer to help make sure you get wherever you're going all right. Lamont: I'd be grateful for your company, if you don't mind leaving your companion... Coifárë: steps forward and places a kiss on top of Lamont's head. Coifárë: Admittedly not how I meant to be spending my day, but this is my top priority. Lamont: smiles Coifárë: straightens up and crosses to Nik to squeeze his hand. Coifárë: I should also get dressed. Lamont: nods Nik: we can wait in the carriage for you if you want some privacy Lamont: yes.... I'd liek to sit without... ruining someone else's furniture -_- Coifárë: Oh, right. Stand up real quick. Coifárë: There's no reason not to clean you up, right? Lamont: I don't think so Lamont: There's plenty of blood still in the carriage if anyone insists on seeing it -_- Coifárë: nods, then waves their hand and utters a spell in elduar. The blood disappears from Lamont's clothes. Lamont: Thank you Lamont: again Lamont: smiles Nik: yes, thank you Coifárë: I'm sorry for the necessity, but always happy to help. I'm glad you're both safe; let's keep it that way, shall we? Coifárë: (to Nik, in Elduar, with a concerned look) Are you all right? Nik: (in elduar) Yes, just shaken. I'll be all right, I just wish such things would stop happening... Coifárë: (elduar) Gods-willing, it will soon. Lamont: waits for them to have their lil private side convo -_- Coifárë: kisses Nik on the cheek and hugs him again, then goes to get dressed. Lamont: will sit and hold Nik's hand while we wait Nik: we weren't talking about you or anything... Coifare just wanted to know if I was okay. Nik: says quietly Lamont: I know. Nik: squeezes your hand Lamont: They want to make sure you feel cared for Nik: nods Lamont: I don't really mind. Nik: I just don't want you to feel left out. I could teach you to speak it if you wanted... but I know there's so many other things going on right now. Lamont: smiles Lamont: We'll have time Lamont: We will. Lamont: squeezes his hand back Nik: smiles a little bleakly Nik: (presumably then once Coifare is ready we can go see Zanne?) Josh: (nod) ===Rosalie and Juno Visit the Museum=== Juno Morticia Auspex: will arrive at the museum early to wait for everyone. Rosalie: will arrive shortly before Lamont is scheduled to arrive and wait with Juno Rosalie: checks the time The marquess must be running late. Juno Morticia Auspex: That's unlike him, isn't it? Rosalie: nods I would think so. He must have been delayed by something. Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, present company is just fine with me. Josh: (Was there a specific like exhibit or anything we were all coming to see?) Rosalie: (Just some new exhibit, I can't remember what it was originally.) Lamont: (I don't think we specified, heh) Juno Morticia Auspex: Truth be told, I don't know the first thing about...any of this. Art was not much a part of my upbringing. Rosalie: Oh, I am not so learned in art, either. I am mostly here for the historical bits and bobs they have on display. Rosalie: But the great thing about art is that you don't need extensive education to admire it. says brightly, then blushes a little and loops her arm through Juno's Shall we? Juno Morticia Auspex: smiles. Juno Morticia Auspex: Absolutely. Juno Morticia Auspex: is happy to stroll along with Rosalie and admire the exhibits. Rosalie: Stillmarch said the private tour should begin not too long from now, we just have to meet the curator. I wonder if we'll still be able to see the collection without him here. Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, even without Stillmarch here, you're still a Doumens. I'm sure plenty of this came from your family as well. 😉 Rosalie: Oh, well, yes, some. When Father passed away, I was appointed executor, which was really quite the to-do since I wasn't of an age yet. Anyway, we had quite an extensive art collection just sitting in a gallery in the house, so I donated the lot. Rosalie: Seb and I used the gallery for fencing practice after that. grins Juno Morticia Auspex: laughs. Juno Morticia Auspex: That's more like my upbringing. The Auspexes are a military family, through and through. Rosalie: laughs Well, I wouldn't say we are military, really. We dabble in many things. Were expectations high for you to join as well? Juno Morticia Auspex: Expectation might be underselling it. It was assumed I'd serve, particularly after it became apparent I had a talent for necromancy. Rosalie: Did you...ever want to be anything else? Juno Morticia Auspex: Would you think me unimaginative if I said no? Rosalie: No, not at all. I would envy you, maybe. Rosalie: To know your path and walk it so assuredly is a wonderful thing. I sometimes wish I had the same confidence in my path. Juno Morticia Auspex: Your path isn't set. You can do anything you set your mind to. Rosalie: This is true. Perhaps I just wish for opportunities that appealed to me more. Rosalie: In any case, the collection we donated should be in the East wing. Rosalie: There are some silly things there. Apparently, a relative of mine must have loved boats, they devoted a lot of energy into buying as many pieces with boats in them as possible. Josh: Rosalie, you have to do a double-take, but you see your mother at the end of the gallery, talking to a shadar-kai man. Rosalie: Even some pottery with little naval scenes....trails off, staring into the distance Juno Morticia Auspex: Are you all right? Juno Morticia Auspex: gives Rose a concerned look. Rosalie: Uh, yes. My mother is here. Juno Morticia Auspex: Oh! Were you...expecting her? Rosalie: looks a little flustered and begins straightening her appearance Rosalie: I wasn't. We have not seen each other for some time. Juno Morticia Auspex: Should we go say hello? Or I can wait if you want to speak to her yourself? Rosalie: Oh, yes. I mean, no. I mean, yes, let's go say hello. Together, that is. Juno Morticia Auspex: squeezes Rosalie's hand reassuringly. Rosalie: gives a small, stressed smile and leads the way to her mother Rosalie: (Name of the shadar-kai?) Josh: (Emlyn Rhydderch) Rosalie: reaches her mother and the man Mother, hello. I did not know you were in town. Inga Doumens: Rosie, dear, I didn't expect to see you here. I was going to come by the house later today. Rosalie: Oh, well, what providence then! Mother, may I introduce you to my...to Magus Juno Auspex. Juno, this is my mother, LadyInga Doumens. Juno Morticia Auspex: It's an honor and a pleasure to meet you, Lady Doumens. Inga Doumens: Yes, wonderful to meet any friend of my daughter's, magus. I would introduce you to my friend, but he was just taking his leave, and he doesn't speak Nerathi. Inga Doumens: says something to her companion, who nods and makes an apologetic face, then turns to go. Rosalie: I did not know you were coming to town soon. Was it an unexpected trip? Inga Doumens: Well, you know me, dear, I don't tend to plan very far ahead. Inga Doumens: (to Juno) Luckily, she doesn't take after me. Rosalie: nods I am unlike you and Father in this particular way. But I am glad to see you, nonetheless. Rosalie: Sébastien will be glad, as well. And you must meet his new fiancé while you are in town. Inga Doumens: Apparently I'm behind on my correspondence. A fiancé, you say? I'm delighted. And yourself? Inga Doumens: gives Juno a glance, which is answered with a blush. Rosalie: gives a quick glance to Juno, as well, and blushes Oh, well, no, I am not engaged, yet. Sébastien only just proposed on Founder's Day. Inga Doumens: Oh, so I haven't missed too much of it, and I can still play the overbearing mother-in-law-to-be. Rosalie: laughs lightly You may certainly give it a shot, but I think you'll find his fiancé up to the task. Inga Doumens: Challenges can be fun. Inga Doumens: Speaking of fun, I should leave you to yours, but I'll see you this evening? Rosalie: nods Of course. I shall make sure Sébastien stays home from his club, as well. Inga Doumens: Excellent, there's my good girl. I'll leave you two to your...stroll. Inga Doumens: gives Rosie a kiss on the cheek, and an encouraging smile to Juno. Rosalie: will wait until her mother has left, then let out a sigh Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, she seems...fun? Rosalie: lets out a startled laugh Rosalie: Yes, you might say. I think sometimes I am the apple that rolled very far from my family tree. Juno Morticia Auspex: gives a bemused smile. Juno Morticia Auspex: Well, I think you're fun. 😉 Rosalie: grins For you, I can be very fun. Juno Morticia Auspex: Then I say we make the most of our visit, hmm? Fortify you for dealing with your mother later? Rosalie: sighs again and leans slightly into Juno's side I do believe you are a miracle. Rosalie: Let's go see how many boats we can find. Juno Morticia Auspex: Aye, captain. ==Reputation== ==Rumor and Scandal== (include only every second chapter) ==Epistolary== * [[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JvQ90hPQWOnUDjOctHP-duIEnMGfJumDvWB33fV9mkc/edit?usp=sharing Engagement announcement for Nik and Lamont]] {{AW}}{{AWRR}}

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