Diablotin 2 session 17

Session

Prologue

Narrator: The end of Seventh-month is rapidly approaching - the worst heat of the summer, with the greatest likelihood of deaths, especially among the poor.

Narrator: Clerics are working hard to create water for those whose wells have run dry, but it is difficult to keep up with the need.

Narrator: There are grumblings that the Emperor should do more to help those who are suffering, but so far he has not.

Narrator: Perhaps he is distracted with another matter that concerns some of you - the imminent announcement of his brother’s betrothal (and perhaps his own as well?)

Ysabeau: . o O (The Emperor doesn't give a Rat's ass for those less fortunate than himself, more like.)

Guillame: . o O (What she thought.)

Altheo & Dominik

Narrator: Dominik, you wished to talk to Altheo about the disappearance of one Felise Lozada. He can be located at the Rutting Boar, or you could perhaps find him at the Society if you prefer.

• Dominik will head to Altheo's establishment
• Dominik heads in, looks around on the off chance Altheo is lingering in the common room.
• Dominik spots him at the bar and heads over

Dominik: So this is all your place, eh?

• Dominik shrugs

Altheo: Yeah, I'm pretty happy with it.

• Altheo will pour us both a whiskey.

Dominik: Thanks

• Dominik will take a sip

Dominik: I don't know if Ysabeau had a chance to mention it to you, but I need to talk to you about a friend of yours.

Altheo: Ok.

Altheo: How can I help?

Dominik: Im trying to find Ramon Lozada.

Dominik: He is a friend of yours, is he not?

• Altheo looks at you a bit funny.

Altheo: What brings you here then?

Dominik: Well, I don't think Ramon would have much reason to give me the time of the day, so if I had someone introduce me, I might actually have a chance to talk to him

Altheo: Ah, I see.

Altheo: Well, most of the time when Ramon comes by here he keeps a pretty low profile, but I'm sure I could help you out.

Dominik: It must be an interesting story how you two know eachother.

Altheo: Yeah. We make an unlikely pair.

Dominik: Maybe you can tell me how he's doing these days.

Altheo: I think he likes the fact that no one remembers he's a spokesman when he comes by here.

Altheo: It seems to me liek that is one of those things that follows you most places.

Altheo: He actually got me in to the ball not to long ago!

Altheo: He seemed to be doing fine there.

Dominik: Thats right, you were at the ball... who were you with?

Altheo: A cousin of his.

Altheo: She was a very enthusiastic lady.

Dominik: That tends to be a trait of the ladies of his house

Altheo: I sure hope so!

Altheo: But why do you say that?

Dominik: I've seen a few that are quite enthusiastic

• Altheo nods.

Altheo: So do you mind if I ask why your looking for Ramon?

Dominik: ...and some that creep me out too, but thats a different story

Dominik: I was asked to look into something. It's not even Ramon that its about.

Dominik: But he might know what is going on.

Altheo: Ok.

Altheo: I'll be glad to set up a meeting.

Dominik: Great

Altheo: Is this the type of meeting that should be kept quiet?

Dominik: If you want

• Altheo nods.
• Altheo pours another round of drinks.

Dominik: I don't really care one way or the other

Altheo: All right then.

Altheo: (what time of day is this?)

Dominik: This isn't really my kinda thing, tracking people down and stuff

Altheo: Why are you doing it then?

Altheo: (sense motive on Dom)

Dominik: Because I was asked to

Altheo: (sm 24)

Altheo: Yeah, it seems I end up doing that a lot too.

Dominik: (that is pretty much the reason)

Dominik: What is your interest with the Society anyway? Just historical curiosity?

Altheo: Well, partly that, and partly that its given me access to a different level of customer.

Altheo: Its hard for a Pearl establishment to break into the higher markets.

Dominik: Well I could see some of them coming here, but the bookish types are not exactly the kind of people I would have a lot of interest in a place like this.

• Altheo smiles knowing.

Altheo: You might be surprised.

Dominik: But hey, what do I know

Dominik: Did you guys ever figure out the mystery behind that necklace?

Altheo: No.

• Altheo sounds frustrated.

Altheo: I think it was someone very well connected, but I don't know who.

• Dominik shrugs

Altheo: You wouldn't have any leads I could follow up on would you?

Dominik: That sister whats her name was digging into as well

Altheo: Alma?

Dominik: I have enough of my own shit weighing on me to get involved in that

Dominik: Yeah, thats her

Altheo: Yeah, I'm a bit worried she may think *I* stole it.

Altheo: I was there when she did her divination thing on it.

Altheo: But I wouldn' have the connections for that kind of job.

Dominik: There is a difference between theft and running a place like this

Altheo: Yes indeed.

Dominik: Shouldn't your buddy Ramon be all over that necklace thing, being a Spokesman and all

Dominik: My friend Tymon said all the Spokesmen were supposed to keep an eye out for leads.

Altheo: Probably, he's dropped hints that he is. But its the type of thing we couldn't work together on. His uppity comanders in chief would never let him live it down.

Altheo: He's gotta keep pretty caeful about his Spokesman jobs and his extra activities not mixing too much.

• Dominik nods to that and finishes his drink
• Altheo pours another round of drink.

Altheo: Well, your drinking at a bar, care to talk about your troubles?

• Dominik laughs

Dominik: My biggest problem is that I know what I'm good at and I never get a chance to do it.

Altheo: Whats that?

Dominik: Fighting

Altheo: I wish I'd known that, I could have used one lately.

Dominik: Well now you know

Altheo: I had a bit of trouble with a wanna be crime lord stealing one of my girls.

Dominik: Seems kinda harsh

Altheo: Well, I decided to go the non violent route and paid him off. But part of me regrets that choice.

Dominik: Not every problem can be solved with a proper application of force, just most

Altheo: I agree.

Altheo: Just out of curiosity though, do you do work for hire?

Dominik: I am currently engaged as a bodyguard, but I can freelance now and then.

Dominik: For someone who keeps giving me drinks, I may just help em out from time to time, and just consider it a favor returned

• Altheo smiles at that.

Altheo: I'm glad to hear it.

Altheo: Are you interested in meeting any of my girls?

Dominik: I would not turn down an introduction

Dominik: I don't generally frequent places like this.

Altheo: Certainly.

Altheo: Do you have a preference?

• Dominik shrugs

Dominik: I try to be open minded

• Altheo will call out a line a girls for Dominik to be introduced to.

Altheo: Don't worry, they are all fun.

• Dominik is a little taken back by the whole thing

Altheo: (I think that may be the end of this scene. lol!)

Ilphere & Sanadhil

Narrator: Sanadhil, you and Ilphere wanted to talk to Nycaise about her research. You can meet with her at the Society's hall.

• Sanadhil will meet up with the two women there, then

Ilphere: Hello Sanadhil!

• Ilphere chirps.

Sanadhil: Good afternoon, Ilphère

Sanadhil: Shall we?

Ilphere: Yes, of course...!

• Sanadhil offers her his arm, all gentlemanly like
• Ilphere takes it graciously...! :)
• Sanadhil will go with her to the study room

Sanadhil: Excited?

Ilphere: Oh yes...!

• Nycaise is waiting for you in the hall.

Sanadhil: Good afternoon, Miss l'Averti

Nycaise: Good afternoon.

Sanadhil: Thank you for meeting with us - I admit I am quite curious to hear more about the nature of your research...

Ilphere: I'm so glad you could meet with us today...!

Nycaise: I hope I can be of help.

Nycaise: You are interested in the study of the planes?

Ilphere: Oh it is my greatest interest..!

• Nycaise smiles at that.

Ilphere: My focus is on extraplanar influences on our own world...

• Nycaise nods, listening.

Nycaise: Well, my particular area of interest is the plane of Shadow.

• Ilphere nods, interested...

Nycaise: I don't know how much either of you know, so forgive me if my explanations are too simple.

Nycaise: The Shadow Plane overlaps this plane of existence, which is normally called the Material Plane.

Nycaise: By ‘overlaps’ I mean it can theoretically be entered and exited from anywhere on this plane, and in some respects the two planes echo each other - geographical features are often similar, for instance, and there can be other similarities as well.

Nycaise: To travel between the two there are several methods - magic items, such as my scroll, or spells like plane shift. There are also, rarely, ‘thin’ spots in our plane where contact may be made with other planes.

Nycaise: Some native creatures of the plane of Shadow are capable of travelling between planes under their own power.

• Sanadhil listens

Nycaise: The Shadow Plane is inhabited by a race of sentient beings, the Shadar-kai.

Nycaise: They are humanoid, somewhat elf-like in appearance, but with grey skin and typically either white or black hair. They are inclined to be averse to humans and other intruders from this plane, and can be dangerous.

Ilphere: Fascinating...

Sanadhil: Hmm.

Sanadhil: How so?

Nycaise: Well, in the same way that any intelligent beings whose territory is invaded may be dangerous.

Sanadhil: Fair enough

Nycaise: The Shadow Plane is perpetually dark - there is no visible moon, sun, or stars, but they have a white stone which they use in much of their building that provides some faint illumination. It tends to be chilly there, as well.

Nycaise: Between the Plane of Shadow and the Material Plane is the Ethereal Plane, a strange, foggy area devoid of permanent structures or civilization - but not devoid of creatures. It can also be a very dangerous area, though for different reasons.

Nycaise: I believe that the Shadar-kai used to inhabit this plane more extensively - now they rarely visit it. I suspect they were driven back by the arrival of humans in the area.

Nycaise: But the Arch, at least, presumably dates from their period of residence here, since early accounts suggest it was here already when the first humans arrived.

Sanadhil: so, they created it?

Nycaise: Perhaps. The white stone is similar to their buiding material.

Sanadhil: Hmm, interesting

Ilphere: I have perhaps a strange question...

Nycaise: Yes?

Ilphere: Is it possible for someone from this plane to enter the Shadow plane... in a dream...?

Sanadhil: Or the Ethereal plane...

• Sanadhil says, eying Ilphère
• Ilphere eyes her expectantly.

Nycaise: I have read accounts that suggest so, but I have never done so myself, or known anyone who has.

Ilphere: How would one recognize if that were happening...?

Nycaise: From what I have read, it is possible to accomplish such travel through dreams with a spell of great power. The caster would certainly know they were doing it.

Ilphere: But it does not generally just... happen...?

Nycaise: I don't believe so.

Sanadhil: Would a caster be able to draw another into such a dream

Nycaise: Yes, as far as I know.

Ilphere: Hmmm... In that case how would the dreamer know...?

Nycaise: They would have to be touching, as I understand it.

Ilphere: Hm..

Ilphere: . o O ( Perhaps not then... )

Nycaise: What does this relate to?

• Sanadhil lets Ilphère answer

Ilphere: Some weeks ago I had a bizarre dream, and when I awoke, not only had I walked around in my sleep, but I had retained physical traces of the other world... And when you described the Shadow plane it seemed somewhat similar... but perhaps not.

Ilphere: Or perhaps the Ethereal.

Ilphere: Or... maybe it is nothing.

• Nycaise considers.

Nycaise: Did the scene you saw have colours? There is basically nothing with colour as we know it in the Shadow Plane.

Nycaise: The Ethereal Plane mostly resembles fog, though traces of the Material Plane can be seen through the mist.

• Ilphere thinks...

Ilphere: There was some colour, yes... The berries were very dark red, almost black...

Nycaise: I see...

Nycaise: Very interesting. But it doesn't sound like either the Shadow or Ethereal plane, at least not as I'm familiar with them.

Ilphere: Ah well... it remains a mystery, then...

Nycaise: I'm sorry I couldn't be more help. Are there any other questions I can perhaps help you with?

Sanadhil: Hmm... what are you studying over there? Just exploring the plane itself?

• Nycaise nods.

Ilphere: How much interaction have you had with its inhabitants...?

Nycaise: Some... I have managed to earn the trust of a few of them.

Ilphere: Fascinating...!

Ilphere: Are they aware of this plane, in general...?

Nycaise: Oh, yes.

Nycaise: I believe that there are some people here who are descended in part from them. Some of their number must have remained behind, or travelled here from time to time.

Ilphere: Yes, that would make sense..!

Sanadhil: Ahh, i was going to ask about continued connections

Sanadhil: I also wondered whether they might have more information about the Arch, if it was their ancestors who built it....

Nycaise: Quite possibly.

Ilphere: That would be very interesting to know...

• Nycaise nods.

Nycaise: I agree.

Sanadhil: I'm interested in the earlier periods of history, or proto-history... I'm sure they must have some interesting records, somewhere

Nycaise: Well, you did see a part of their library ;)

Sanadhil: Indeed! I would have loved to have more time there

Nycaise: It has taken me years to gain enough trust to be admitted there.

Nycaise: Even then, there are many sections I haven't been allowed to see.

• Sanadhil nods

Sanadhil: Are they a long lived people, like the Elves?

Nycaise: I don't know how long-lived. I believe their life spans are longer than humans, at least.

• Sanadhil nods

Ilphere: Do they measure time the same way we do...?

Ilphere: I have often wondered if time flows the same in all planes...

Nycaise: I have great difficulty measuring time there - there are no days, no nights, no months.

Ilphere: I see...!

Sanadhil: With no sun or stars...

• Nycaise nods.
• Sanadhil suppresses a shudder

Nycaise: Yet they somehow do perceive the passage of time.

Sanadhil: Hmm.

Sanadhil: Do they have their own gods?

Nycaise: They have no gods, though they acknowledge greater powers in the universe.

• Sanadhil nods

Sanadhil: That makes sense

Sanadhil: What sort of greater powers?

Nycaise: Creatures of the Outer Planes, as far as I can tell.

Ilphere: The Outer Planes... oh my!

Nycaise: I know comparatively little about them, I'm afraid.

Sanadhil: Interesting

• Sanadhil tries to think of other questions
• Sanadhil looks to Ilphère

Sanadhil: Oh - do you know why they came here, of all places on our world? Is there a place of thinness here, perhaps?

Nycaise: I believe there used to be, at least.

Nycaise: I don't know if there still is. It would likely be in Rhenea if it still exists.

Ilphere: Near the Down...?

Nycaise: Perhaps, yes.

Nycaise: I have been looking for it for many years.

Sanadhil: How would it be recognizable?

Nycaise: Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, there would be little visible sign of such an area - perhaps just a place where the shadows seem slightly darker, or never truly disappear.

Sanadhil: It could even be beneath the city, I suppose, where House Rat used to live...

Ilphere: Interesting...!

Nycaise: Perhaps.

Sanadhil: Well, you have me well intrigued, in any case!

Nycaise: I'm glad.

Sanadhil: Thank you for answering our questions.

• Sanadhil smiles

Nycaise: Not at all.

• Nycaise smiles back.

Ilphere: Yes, thank you!

Sanadhil: I dare say, if you ever need any assistance wth your research, either one of us would be happy to assist

Nycaise: Let me know if there's anything further I can help you with.

• Nycaise nods.

Nycaise: I'll keep that in mind.

Sanadhil: As will i - I have been working on a paper about the early history of the region, and if the Shadar-Kai can be linked to the gravonians, it would greatly enrich the interpretations I can make...

Nycaise: I certainly believe there are ties between them...

• Sanadhil nods

Nycaise: Well, it has been good talking with you both.

Ilphere: And you as well!

Sanadhil: I might consult you on a fw things after i've finished my first draft. But yes, thank you for your time.

Seth

Narrator: Seth, you have to speak with one Errivan Escalera, Ilphere's putative stepson.

Narrator: You have been led to believe that you can probably find him while he's at weapons training.

Narrator: Master Halden’s training yard is intended to educate the sons and daughters of the nobility in the arts of combat. You recognize M. Dominik Rademacher in the midst of a sword fight as you enter.

• Seth will attempt to clean himself up and make it seem as if he is not a total bum before going
• Seth looks for the young man and tries not to interrupt Dominik's match
• Errivan is a tall young man of about 15, with wavy brown hair and brown eyes, and a rather unfortunate crop of pimples. He is engaged in lackluster combat with a practice dummy when you spot him.
• Seth heads over in that direction and observes him for a short while.
• Errivan notices you watching him.

Errivan: Are you new here?

Seth: Yes, I suppose so.

Seth: You?

• Errivan nods.

Errivan: I've been coming for a few months.

• Seth nods.

Errivan: My father makes me.

Seth: Seth Argo. Pleased to make your acquaintance.

Errivan: Oh... Errivan Escalera.

• Seth nods.

Seth: I thought you might be he.

• Errivan looks at you funny.

Errivan: Why?

Seth: I believe I've met your father once or twice.

Errivan: Oh.

• Errivan makes a bit of a face.

Errivan: Sorry, then.

Seth: Yes...right.

Seth: I'm a friend of the Lady Ilphere de Quessenet.

Errivan: You're not a Spokesman, are you? I hate Spokesmen.

Seth: Oh, Void,no.

Errivan: Oh, good.

Errivan: She's the one that Father's talking about marrying, right? She's, like, my age :p

Seth: Yes, or perhaps just a handful of years older.

Errivan: Blech. If I were her, I wouldn't marry someone old enough to be my father.

Seth: What the Emperor wills, though... it's difficult to say no.

• Errivan shrugs.

Errivan: I don't know. He can't force them or anything.

Seth: No, but he can make life very unpleasant for them if they say no.

Seth: Especially for her.

Errivan: Maybe. I don't know why Father's going along with it. He made this big deal about how he was never going to marry again after Mother died. Liar :p

• Errivan hacks at the dummy a bit more.

Seth: Maybe time changed his mind.

Errivan: Maybe. Maybe he's just a hypocrite, like all the other Spokesmen.

Seth: I don't know him well enough to say. But yes, it could be.

Seth: Has he said anything to you about it?

Errivan: About marrying what's her name? Nothing more than that it's probably going to happen.

Seth: (sm on him)

• Errivan isn't lying. And he really does hate Spokesmen - you don't think it's just adolescent rebelliousness.

Seth: So what's your problem with the Spokesmen?

Errivan: They killed my mother.

Seth: Uh ... wow. Why do you say that?

Errivan: She went out one day, and she was gone for a long time. I was ten then. Two Spokesmen brought her back, dead, after dark, and then my father said that she fell down the stairs at our house. Which was *another* lie.

Errivan: Spokesmen aren't supposed to lie, but they do it all the time. They're no better than anyone else, they just pretend that they are.

• Seth nods.

Seth: I'm sorry.

• Errivan shrugs.

Errivan: I'm not supposed to talk about it, anyway. I probably shouldn't have said anything.

Seth: Do you know who the Spokesmen were who brought her back?

Errivan: I don't know.

Seth: (sm again?)

Narrator: (you don't know if he's lying or not)

Errivan: Why?

Errivan: What do you care?

Seth: Hmm ... well, let's say for instance that someone wanted to end this new marriage before it happens.

Seth: A scandal involving your dad might do that.

Errivan: I don't want to ruin my family's name.

Seth: Well, that wouldn't happen. People would want to keep it secret.

Seth: But the Emperor would have to change his mind. He's the one who wants this to happen.

Seth: The only reason he wants her to marry your dad is that she really wants to marry the Emperor's own brother.

Errivan: Hm.

Errivan: My father was home when my mother died. I don't think he left the house. He couldn't have been involved in it... I don't think.

Seth: Even if not ... let's say that someone murder's a man's first wife. Are you likely to want to marry someone else to him without finding out what happened to wife #1?

Errivan: Well, I wouldn't :p

Seth: The emperor doesn't want Ilphere dead. He just wants her not to be part of his immediate family.

Errivan: Well, she doesn't have to marry anyone, does she?

Seth: I don't know. I think she might.

Errivan: Do you want to marry her or something? Why do you care?

Seth: No! No ... I'm her friend and I want to help her, that's all.

• Errivan shrugs.

Errivan: Well, I don't want her to marry my father either.

• Seth nods.

Seth: For all I know, your dad doesn't even want to marry her.

Errivan: Maybe. He doesn't seem really excited about it.

Seth: Seems like we might have a common cause, then.

• Errivan nods.

Seth: Anything you could tell me that might help. I know a lot of people who could put a stop to this.

Errivan: I think maybe someone - maybe the Emperor, even - knows what happened to my mother, and they're holding it over my father's head to make him go through with this.

Seth: Can you think of anyone specific who might know what that is?

Errivan: The Spokesmen probably all know :p

• Seth laughs.

Seth: I bet they lie to one another too.

Errivan: Maybe.

Seth: What was your mom's name?

Errivan: Marissa Escalera.

Seth: And before she married?

Errivan: Falgout.

Seth: Okay. Well, look, Errivan, I don't know what will come of all this, but I assure you that it is not to anyone's advantage to have your dad's name smeared.

Seth: That would make it very hard for Ilphere to marry someone else, if she were associated with this scandal.

• Errivan nods.

Errivan: Okay. Well, I should probably get going.

Errivan: Nice to meet you, Seth.

Seth: And you as well, Errivan.

• Errivan will take his leave, then.
• Seth departs.

• Seth heads over to the Kizer compound.
• Leonien is available to see you.

Seth: Good day, Your Grace. I bring news.

Leonien: Do tell.

Seth: I have spoken with Errivan Escalera, who informs me that there is some scandal regarding the death of his mother Marissa Escalera some five years ago, something involving the Spokesmen, and potentially Errivan's own father.

• Seth summarizes the conversation.
• Leonien listens intently.

Seth: The young man clearly despises both the Spokesmen and his father, and blames at least the former for his mother's death.

Leonien: I always wondered about that... it was a very unfortunate accident, or so it seemed.

Seth: Of course I did not mention you or the Kizer name - I presented myself simply as a friend of Mlle de Quessenet, which is true, as far as it goes.

• Leonien nods.

Leonien: That was well done.

Seth: He suspects that perhaps the Emperor is using this information as a means of forcing this marriage.

Leonien: That would make sense. Even if Kaladon was not involved in his wife's death - and I don't think it would be in-character for him to have done so - he might be willing to conceal something that would reflect badly on the Order of the Spoke, or indeed on his late wife.

Seth: Obviously Errivan was just a child at the time - I don't think he was hiding anything from me. I think he just doesn't know.

• Leonien nods.

Leonien: I think I can make use of this, Seth. I don't know if it will be enough, but I will do what I can.

Seth: I am heartened, Your Grace.

Leonien: Thank you.

• Leonien will produce a small pouch of gold for you in compensation for your efforts.

Seth: I am most pleased to serve, sire.

Narrator: (like... 50 gp.)

Seth: (woot! less poverty!)

• Leonien gives you permission to depart, then.
• Seth leaves respectfully.

Guillame

Narrator: Guillame, Aden invites you to another meeting of the Levellers.

• Guillame will go, again.
• Aden welcomes you into the same little meeting-space as the last time. There are about 15 people there, most of whom you remember from the last meeting.
• Guillame will greet people politely

Thea: I think we need to discuss the water situation. There are people who are going to die if something isn't done soon.

• Guillame listens - he doesn't know much about what's happened with the drought

Sister_Megith: We've been working at the temples to try and help, but there's only so much we can do.

Aden: What else can be done, though?

Nais: There was a similar drought a few hundred years ago, in the reign of Deniel IV. Back then, the Emperor authorised the use of several decanters of endless water from the Imperial Treasury to help alleviate the suffering.

Guillame: Do they still exist?

Nais: I don't know.

Thea: There's no way of knowing what's in the Treasury, at least not for us.

Avery: Maybe we can demand to know if they're still available for use, and if so, why they haven't been deployed yet.

• Guillame nods

Avery: I'll write an editorial about it, too ;)

Aden: I'll see what can be done, whether we can find out if they're still there or not.

Guillame: It's possible that the new emperor doesn't know that they existed...?

Aden: Quite possible. But *someone* should know what's in the treasury.

Guillame: Yes, indeed. It might be worth suggesting *before* demanding, is all I'm saying.

Aden: I certainly wouldn't demand anything of the Emperor.

Aden: But newspaper editorials are a different matter.

Aden: We may have to approach this through multiple channels.

Guillame: There must be other groups who are looking at this, too? Could we maybe coordinate with them?

Thea: All right - Aden, you will approach the Treasury officials for information. If nothing is forthcoming after a week's time, the editorials and other forms of protest can start.

• Guillame quiets down

Aden: I think Guillame has a good point, though. There are surely others who are concerned about this. The Church, for one.

• Thea looks mildly annoyed, but nods.

Thea: Very well. Meg is our best contact within the church, so maybe she can try to coordinate this side of the efforts.

• Sister_Megith nods.

Aden: Very well. Was there anything else pressing that we needed to discuss?

• Guillame gives a quick shake of his head

Narrator: Others raise a few minor issues, but the meeting wraps up before too long.

• Aden comes over to your side.

Aden: I'm glad you could make it :)

Guillame: Well, I'm enjoying the meetings, to be honest - I hope we can accomplish something.

Guillame: I don't think Thea thinks much of me, though - I was going to try and catch her now...

Aden: I think this is one situation we can actually affect quickly, at least.

Aden: Oh... yes :/

Aden: It's a bit awkward.

Aden: But if you want to talk to her, please, go ahead.

Guillame: I will, I think - if you'll excuse me?

• Guillame grins

Aden: Of course :)

• Guillame approaches Thea
• Thea turns to you as you approach.

Thea: Guillame.

Guillame: Hello Thea - I wondered if I might speak with you?

Thea: Certainly. What can I do for you?

Guillame: Maybe I am being paranoid, but... it seems to me that I annoy you? I wanted to ask, so that maybe I could avoid doing so...

• Thea frowns slightly.

Thea: You mean well, I'm sure.

Thea: But you are a noble, and as such, there are many things you don't understand.

Guillame: Ah, I... yes. Both are certainly true.

Thea: You and Aden... you're too much alike. But he's made the effort to learn to understand what life is like outside his little sheltered world.

Guillame: Maybe over time I can show that I have started to, and intend to continue, doing the same.

• Thea nods.

Thea: I hope so.

Thea: My main concern is where your loyalties lie.

Guillame: That's fair. And I'd be lying if I said I wasn't loyal to my family.

• Thea nods, listening.

Guillame: But I am coming to believe in this cause, and I'm willing to do my part as long as that's true.

Thea: Coming to believe?

Guillame: When I came to the first meeting, I didn't have any real first-hand experience of the Levellers, but I thought I shared their ideals.

Guillame: I'm convinced now that I was right.

Thea: I see...

Thea: I won't pretend that I understand your motivations, but if you support us, I can't dismiss that too lightly.

Guillame: I do - and I'll take that as a complement

Thea: I'll see you next time, then, I suppose.

Guillame: I'd like that

• Guillame smiles
• Thea forces a smile back.
• Guillame 's smile stiffens a little, and he bows and leaves
• Aden joins you.

Aden: How did it go?

Guillame: As well as can be hoped, I think... she doesn't trust me, but I think she's more comfortable with me being here..

• Aden nods.

Aden: She has difficulty understanding why any nobles would care about these matters. It took me quite a long time to convince her that my intentions were serious.

Guillame: Her reasons for being suspicious of me are pretty valid, so I can't complain.

• Guillame nods

Aden: I know. I hope that she'll come around, in time.

Aden: So, would you like to join me for dinner? :)

Guillame: I suppose that if I prove myself, she will.

Guillame: I'd love to!

• Aden will take you back to his place, then ;

Guillame: (Huzzah!)

Alma & Ysabeau

Narrator: Alma, you have the bright idea to talk to an expert in painting and genealogy about the miniature of Ysabeau's.

• Alma realises she may just not be the one to solve the conundrum after all!
• Alma will invite Ysabeau so she can update her on the other questions she's asked.
• Ysabeau graciously accepts. The mystery of Dessa's death still weighs upon her.
• Terceira d'Avin is probably your best choice, as someone who's knowledgeable on both subjects, and actually around the society quite often.
• Alma will arrange a time to meet with her and inform Ysabeau.
• Alma arrives!
• Ysabeau shows up well on time.
• Terceira is pursuing some books in the library when you arrive.

Terceira: Oh, hello, Sister :)

Alma: Good afternoon Ms. d'Avin :)

Ysabeau: Good afternoon, both of you!

Alma: Good afternoon, Ysabeau.

• Terceira nods in greeting.
• Ysabeau hurries in, looking a bit harried perhaps.

Terceira: What can I do for you? :)

• Ysabeau lets Alma explain, since it was her idea.

Alma: We have an item, a small portrait, and we hoped you might be able to identify the subject.

Terceira: I'd be glad to see what I can do.

• Alma will pull it from her bag and unwrap it.
• Terceira will take a look at it.

Alma: I believe the subject gave it to his lover, and it was passed down to some one Ysabeau knows. We were hoping to identify who that lover might be as well.

• Terceira gets out a small magnifying glass to examine it more closely.

Alma: I don't imagine it matters except as a curiosity, but there is a compartment in the piece as well.

Terceira: Oh, I see...

Terceira: The style of the painting and clothes suggests that it dates from the mid 2170s or so, maybe 70 years ago, give or take a few years either way.

Ysabeau: I believe it held something but... we'll likely never know what.

Terceira: A lock of hair, perhaps - if it was a gift to a lover.

Terceira: It’s of high quality, suggesting the person who commissioned it was wealthy.

Ysabeau: Why would anyone steal a lock of hair of someone who must be long-dead?

Terceira: I don't know. Magic?

Terceira: The subject has a pin here, at his throat... it's very small, but I can make it out with the glass. A wolf.

Alma: (Spellcraft 19)

• Alma nods.

Alma: I was under the impression he would be House Wolf.

Terceira: Well, that would make sense, then.

Alma: Do you know if it would be possible to determine who it is?

Terceira: The artist hasn't signed the work, but there is a jeweler’s mark on the frame. Not one I recognize, but it could be tracked down, perhaps.

Alma: I mean, without knocking on the well-to-do House Wolf citizens in the city...

Terceira: He looks maybe twenty to twenty-five, so he would have been born around ... 2150, 2155 or so?

Terceira: Black hair, green eyes... House Wolf nobleman, as we already suggested...

Terceira: I can try to find some people who match that description, at least. I don't know whether I can make a conclusive identification without tracking down some other portraits of the possible candidates, though.

• Alma nods.
• Terceira puts the glass aside and will consult some books.

Ysabeau: Well, anything would help...

• Terceira probably looks through books for a while, while you twiddle your thumbs, and then she eventually calls you back.

Ysabeau: (Did Dessa and her grandmother live in the Shambles or in PC, Julia?)

Terceira: (Shambles)

• Alma will help fetch books if it helps -_-

Terceira: Well, I don't know how much help this is, I'm afraid. If he isn't a nobleman, just a wealthy fellow, my guesses will be entirely off.

Terceira: But as for noblemen of the correct appearance and age, there are a couple of possibilities.

• Ysabeau nods.

Ysabeau: Go on.

Terceira: Jovien Kizer, Duke of Friaul, the great-grandfather of the current Emperor, and Deveral Rademacher, who later became the Duke of Psyra.

Ysabeau: Hmm.

Ysabeau: Well, before my sister's friend Dessa had it, it belonged to her grandmother who died in (year). They lived in the Shambles... Strange that a nobleman's portrait would end up in the hands of a family who lived in the Shambles.

Terceira: Fortunately, there are surely plenty of portraits of both of them, so it should be possible to compare.

Ysabeau: Unless his lover was a lower-class woman.

• Terceira shrugs.

Terceira: It could be.

Ysabeau: That probably doesn't help narrow things down, really, though.

Alma: Well, we can take a look for some portraits of the two. Surely two Dukes won't be hard to find.

Terceira: Well, if it doesn't match either of those two, no, I suppose it doesn't.

Ysabeau: Where would we find portraits of these Dukes?

• Ysabeau asks Alma and Terceira.

Ysabeau: Without annoying anyone, I mean.

Terceira: Their estates, their descendants...

Alma: I believe there's a M. Rademacher who visits the Society from time to time...

Ysabeau: Dominik?

Alma: Yes, I think that's his name.

Ysabeau: I don't think he pays all that much attention to family portraits...

Ysabeau: I've run into that with him before.

Ysabeau: But, it wouldn't hurt to ask.

Terceira: Maybe the Imperial Gallery would also be a possibility.

Ysabeau: (Is the imperial gallery open to the public?)

Alma: (History 24, were either important enough that might be in the Palace of Illusions?)

Terceira: I'll keep a look out for anything else that might be helpful.

Terceira: (Yes, the Imperial gallery is open to the public. Alma, probably not.)

Alma: Thank you for taking a look, Ms. d'Avin. I think a trip to the gallery might be our first step :)

Ysabeau: Thank you, Mlle. D'Avin.

Terceira: I'm glad to have helped.

• Terceira will return to her research, then.
• Ysabeau turns to Alma.

Alma: You know, more than a week of questioning and I imagine we've learned the same in ten minutes...

• Alma shakes her head.

Ysabeau: So... someone - the man in the picture? - gave that to Dessa's grandmother, and she passed it on to Dessa?

• Ysabeau tries to get things straight in her head.

Alma: Yes. She dates the portrait a little earlier than I'd assumed, but he wouldn't be *that* much older than Dessa's grandmother.

Ysabeau: Is the gallery still open?

• Ysabeau checks the time.
• Ysabeau notes that the Gallery is likely still open.

Ysabeau: Shall we go there now?

Alma: Yes, though we should go now, I've some one waiting for me at home.

Ysabeau: I've got to get home and make supper, too, so let's to the Gallery.

Alma: I'll ask Marielle to speed up a little :)

• Alma will take you to the Gallery in her carriage
• Ysabeau is used to riding in carriages by now. ^-^

Alma: Some one should print a book from time to time with the portraits inside...

Ysabeau: Weird if it he does prove to be a nob. Nobleman!

Alma: I mean, ...

• Ysabeau corrects herself, remembering that you yourself are a nob.

Alma: It's a matter of record, in a sense.

Alma: I suppose it's not all that important what they LOOK like so much as what they do, normally.

Ysabeau: No, just that would mean that Dessa is possibly the bastard descendant of some noble.

Ysabeau: And that might explain why someone saw fit to kill her.

• Alma looks sad at that.

Ysabeau: You know, if she could somehow have been competition for someone else, or something.

Ysabeau: Though I thought that to be competition, you'd have to be acknowledged.

Ysabeau: But what do I know about nobles, really.

Alma: Well, I don't believe that Friaul or Psyra are currently ... "up for grabs" so to speak.

• Ysabeau is mostly thinking out loud, trying to make sense out of a senseless act. :(
• Alma will get the portrait out again once we arrive so we can reference it.

Ysabeau: Well... the Kizers are the Imperial family now.

Ysabeau: If her grandfather was a Kizer, maybe they were trying to wrap up some loose ends.

Ysabeau: You know, to avoid embarrassment or something.

Alma: I can't ... I can't imagine that sort of thing.

Alma: Over a ... a portrait.

Ysabeau: You're probably right.

Ysabeau: Let's go see if we can find this fellow.

• Ysabeau nods her chin at the miniature portrait in your hands.
• Alma nods and will begin to examine the art in the gallery
• Alma will hand the portrait to you.

Alma: I've been looking at it on and off for days now.

Ysabeau: Got it memorized, huh?

Alma: At least enough to know when to look at it again :)

• Alma looks at some of the nameplates of portraits in case she spots the names and they certainly don't look like the one we're looking for.
• Ysabeau also scrutinizes the House Wolf portraits carefully.

Narrator: There are probably portraits of both of them, but when they're older. and they're probably cousins or something, so they look quite similar in many respects.

Ysabeau: Why do so many of them have green eyes?!

Alma: Well, I suppose it's not really a young person's idea of a good time, sitting still for a portrait. :|

Ysabeau: Maybe we can look for the brooch he's wearing?

Ysabeau: Jewellery is something you keep all your life so maybe he's wearing it when he looks older.

Alma: It's quite small, and it's a wolf...

• Alma sighs.

Alma: Unfortunately the Gallery wasn' the key.

• Ysabeau looks disappointed/frustrated, maybe on the verge of tears.
• Ysabeau sighs.

Ysabeau: (w) I'm sorry, Dessa.

Ysabeau: What can we do next?

• Ysabeau asks you.

Alma: I'm not sure we can learn anything about what, if anything, was inside. If she was a mistress of either man, it's unlikely either family would know, or even care to disclose what he might have put inside a keepsake.

Ysabeau: I'll ask Ilphere if she knows whether any spells could use a lock of hair of someone.

• Ysabeau casts about for anything to make sense of the situation.

Ysabeau: Not that we know that that is what really was in there.

Ysabeau: Owl's silent wings!

• Ysabeau swears, forgetting she's in the presence of clergy. ;)

Ysabeau: I'm not a guard; I don't know how to solve mysteries.

Alma: Perhaps she has remaining family, an aunt perhaps, who might know about the portrait.

Alma: Where shall we drop you off?

Ysabeau: I live in Pearl City at (address) but you don't have to drop me off at my door. I could use a walk anyway.

Ysabeau: Thank you, Sister.

Ysabeau: Also, sorry for losing my temper.

• Ysabeau says humbly.

Ysabeau: I've just seen this happen to too many people.

Alma: It's never easy losing a friend.

Alma: :(

Alma: If I can think of anything else to help you find justice for her...

• Ysabeau tries a grateful smile.

Ysabeau: You're too kind, Sister.

Ysabeau: This is close enough. I can walk the rest of the way.

Alma: Here? Alright.

• Alma will have her driver stop and let you walk.

Ysabeau: Thank you. Have a good evening.

Alma: You too.

• Ysabeau curtseys.
• Ysabeau then walks off in the direction of her home.

Ilphere

Narrator: Ilphere, you are at home when your mother hurries in to your room.

Justine: Ilphere, the Prince-Imperial is here!

Ilphere: Oh, hello Mo... ther...

Ilphere: :o

Ilphere: Truly...!

• Justine nods, excited.
• Ilphere checks her hair in the mirror...

Ilphere: Now...?!

Justine: He is coming up the drive as we speak!

• Justine will help with your hair.

Ilphere: I wonder why he would come unannounced...?

Justine: I hope it's good news!

Ilphere: Oh, oh, oh..!

• Justine then hustles you downstairs to greet Menard properly.
• Menard bows politely to you once your mother has welcomed him in.
• Ilphere bustles down the stairs...
• Menard looks disheveled and hurried, despite his good manners ;)
• Ilphere curtseys deeply...

Ilphere: Prince Menard...!

Menard: Ilphere, may I speak with you, ah, privately?

Ilphere: What a pleasant surprise...!

• Ilphere glances at her mother...

Narrator: Your mother will make herself scarce.

Ilphere: ... What is it...? :o

Ilphere: Has something happened...?

Menard: I don't fully understand, but yes, something has.

Ilphere: What...?

• Ilphere is a bit afraid to ask.
• Menard gets down on his knees before you.

Menard: Ilphere, will you marry me?

Ilphere: Menard...?

• Ilphere 's breath catches in her throat...

Ilphere: Oh... oh yes...! Of course...!

• Menard digs around in his pocket and produces a ring.
• Ilphere tears up happily...!

Menard: Here... I hope this fits...

• Ilphere holds out her hand.
• Menard puts it on - it's a bit big, but it doesn't fall off, at least.

Ilphere: It's ... beautiful...!

Ilphere: Oh Menard..!

• Menard stands up to embrace you.
• Ilphere falls happily into his arms!

Menard: I don't know what's changed, apart from Marl's mind.

Ilphere: I'm so happy...!

Menard: So am I :)

Menard: And I don’t care about whatever you’ve done - whatever this cult is, let me join it with you! Then what can anyone say about you?

Ilphere: What...? :o

Ilphere: I... huh?

Ilphere: I am... studying them, that is all...! :o

Menard: Well, Marl told me about... ah... oh... I'm sorry. Shouldn't I have said anything?

Ilphere: I am just... surprised that you would still want to be with me...

Ilphere: I am... I'm so happy!!!

• Ilphere bursts into tears...!

Menard: Oh... don't cry... I'm sorry...

Ilphere: No, I'm just so happy...!

Ilphere: I can't help it..!

• Ilphere sniffles. :)

Menard: Oh, good :)

• Menard kisses you, then.
• Ilphere kisses back ecstatically...!
• Justine and Lystain, who have been waiting outside the door, will burst in to congratulate the two of you and interrupt your makeouts ;)

Epilogue

Narrator: Those of you who have any reason to be at court may hear the announcement by the Emperor himself; for the rest of you, the news takes up an entire issue of the Imperial Herald, and is prominently featured in the other relevant broadsheets.

Narrator: Prince-Imperial Menard is betrothed to Mlle. Ilphere deQuessenet, great-grand daughter of the Countess of Alarche; Princess-Imperial Eglantine is betrothed to M. Tymas Maez, son of the Duchess of Epinal, and the Emperor himself is betrothed to Yanina Trueblood, Duchess of Creve Coeur. The weddings will take place at the new year's celebrations.

• Ysabeau will burst into happy tears when Ilph tells her.
• Sanadhil will write Ilphere a formal letter of congratulations, as well as wishing her the best personally

Narrator: The end, for now...