• Event • A Foggy Farewell

[Pig Boy]

Ten Trials after laying his father, the Dubois Patriarch to rest from the shores of Lake Lovalus, Nathaniel Dubois,was holding a party to celebrate his father's life and accomplishments. The Dubois Patriarch was well known for having cornered a large portion of the agricultural market in Rharne. Much of the wheat, barley, hops, and other essential crops to the propagation of the brewing business flowed through his enterprises. As such, many tavern owners and people of importance in Rharnean culture will be attending the party.

The weather of the Saun of 724 will be harried by a deep and nearly blinding fog. Due in part to this, the various invitees and hirelings were carted directly to the manor by lantern-lit wagons, on the eveniing of the 33rd. The affair would largely be held indoors, but those attending will be given escort, whether they arrive as servers, guests of honor, or people of importance around Rharne.

The party is expected to be a lavish affair, so guests and VIPs are expected to dress appropriately to the occasion. Servers and other riff raff may attend in clean clothing, and will be provided a server's uniform from the wardrobe, along with lodging in the servants' bunk house. All others will be given their own personal suites to enjoy, whether coming alone or together.

Of course it wouldn't do for the Dubois household to be caught off guard, with the guests to arrive before the help and the celebrity chef and his assistant, so the procession of carriages was very carefully choreographed. The Dubois heir was very insistent upon them arriving by carriages specifically chosen, timed, and organized, even if they preferred another method of conveyance. That way everything was set and prepared on time.

Of course the celebrity chef and his assistant were the first to arrive. Master Chef Winston, and his assistant Faith were seated in a carriage that carried several f the kitchen and service hirelings that had been brought on to bolster the already considerable staff of Dubois' mansion. In between Winston and Faith, a mousy young woman, who appeared to fit the textbook description of a scullery maid. Freckles on her face and brown hair, with small fidgety hands. Opposite them, three men, in order of shortest to tallest, the shortest of whom seemed to be a jovial service-type, the second appeared like a slightly thinner one that was equally cheerful. The last had more of a look of an undertaker than a service person, but apparently he was to organize the entire service crew. He looked at Faith for a long moment, and in that moment she thought she knew him.

The carriage pulled alongside the manor, and the first to greet them was Nathaniell Dubois himself. He'd been chatting with Miss Lightfoot, the Trade Master of Rharne. They happened to overhear the last snatches of their conversation. "It can be done, if we can make Volta independent. More a client of Rharne. There's something to be said for it, and otherwise we'd be leaving so much money on the table. Think of it Daphne."

"I don't know, but if Urien knew..."

But then their carriage was opened by the tall service captain, and Winston and Faith were given way to take to the pathway to the manor. Nathaniel would greet them with open arms, interrupting his discussion with Daphne Lightfoot.

"Ahhh, Winston and..." He nearly choked on the fog as he beheld a ghost before him. "his... assistant. Faith Augustin?" He looked at her a long hard moment, before clearing his throat and addressing Winston primarily. "You must be anxious to get underway, the service captain will see to show you the way to your suites, and subsequently to the kitchen you'll be overseeing. We're very pleased to have one of the up and coming chefs in all of Idalos at our humble home."

So they were shown in, first to their overnight suites should they need them, and then to the kitchens, to prepare for the long celebration ahead.

Next to come were the other servants. There was Illuvia, and Goku, who were assigned to handle any rough-housing between party guests, or other interlopers who might try and intrude on the party. Then there was Netzach, who perhaps bore the pin that Tobias had given him, as a condition of leaving him alive from the All-Taverns Tournament, and a note in his hand that'd been slipped in it before he saw who had placed it there. In the note was a simple message. Join me in the Attic Observatory of the Dubois Estate.

They pulled up about a break after Winston and Faith had arrived. Once there, the spindly man who looked an undertaker beckoned for them to follow. "Come." He said sharply, and would expect them to fall in step swiftly, almost as if he was commanding soldiers. He brought them to the back entrance of the manor, toward the servants quarters. There they were shown to their overnight bunks that would be afforded to them, and briefed swiftly on their roles.

"You two." He said, indicating Goku and Illuvia. "Will be making sure no riff-raff get into the manor while the guests enjoy themselves. Custodial duties might also be included, in the case of a dull night."

He pointed to Netzach, and then frowned for a moment. He shook his head, and whispered to one of his assistants. He listened to what they said into his ear, and then nodded. "We weren't expecting an extra server, but that will be your task. Bringing the food to the guests. Think you can handle that?"

So saying, he clapped his hands stiffly, and shooed them away, toward their respective duties.. "Off you go, make yourselves busy."



Yet another break elapsed. This one brought the guests of honor and the VIPs along with them, in several carriages. First in line to the manor were the participants in the All-Taverns tournament, Vivian Shiryu, Azrael Blackfire, and Vincent Steinitz. They were joined by the Commander of the Lightning Knights. Vivian knew him well, Urien was ready to step down from running the organization, in favor of one who was better suited to the modern challenges of Rharne and council duties. But the transition was still an ongoing process, and the details had yet to be followed through on. For now, they were here to enjoy themselves as guests of the Dubois estate, and as participants in the All-Taverns Tournament.

Behind them, the VIPs arrived in several carriages. The first among them carried Tristan's party, and Genna's. With Tristan and Genna was a young business owner, a widow from Rynmere, named Blyth Wthne. Somehow she'd managed to work her way in a seat next to Tristan, as the bumpy ride to the manor was underway. The carriage jostled, as the driver sang a drunken sea shanty. Something about a tongue, a bottle of lick, and a devil whale. Blyth bumped against Tristan, almost deliberately as the carriage jostled every now and again.

These first two of the carriages were let into the gate, and driven up to the very front foyer of the manor, which was lit by alchemically treated braziers to dampen the fog. The driver of Tristan and Gennadiya's carriage stumbled off, and drank from a peculiar looking flask. He muttered in rakahi and mixed common, about something regarding a lick, a clawed sea hag, and a devil whale. He disappeared into the fog, seemingly, as he stumbled off.

Nathaniel Dubois greeted them. "Honored guests! Welcome! Welcome! You'll enjoy tonight I'm sure of it. We're all here to send my father off with gusto are we not, afterall? Every Rharnean's life begins and should end with a party, so it is."

He smiled, and greeted each guest in turn, in a personal greeting with a handshake or a hug. "Tristan Venora, I don't believe we've met yet, but I've heard much about you. And your addition to the Glass Quarter Gardens was marvelous, simply inspiring."

He moved onto Gennadiya, and her husband "And the Order of the Adunih Mistress! Your work on behalf of our people is a thing to be admired, and we're very impressed with the work you've done in the Willow Tree Hospital, and the Earth Quarter clinic."

Next, after a quick greeting to Blyth, and Urien, he moved onto the All-Taverns Participants. Vincent was the first, who he said nothing to but shook his hand and gave a slight smirk to. Azrael Blackfire, he was a bit more friendly toward, and said something, "Well done in the finals of the All-Taverns.. It couldn't have been easy to get that far, let alone put on such a show in the final round!"

"Vivian!" Dubois moved onto the Lightning Knight Sleuth. "I would have been very put out if you'd not attended my fathers funeral, both as a Lightning Knight official, an All-Taverns Finalist, and mayhaps... a colleague on the council soon? Hmm?" He smirked and simpered to her a moment, before addressing them all.

"The rest of the guests will be arriving in their carts shortly, but for now, enjoy yourselves! Get yourselves familiar with the surroundings, and most importantly of all..."

"Don't stray too far into the fog. This is an indoor party, obviously with this blasted weather we're having." So saying, he excused himself into the manor, where they could follow. In time each of them woulld be shown to their overnight suites, should they require them to stay the night. Otherwise they'd be let into the large reception, which was well lit, clear, and full of beautiful keepsakes of the former Patriarch's lifetime.

!	Message from: Pig boy
	Okay in order you can: Describe your journey in the carriages, up to and including boarding them. Describe what you do when you arrive, whether busying yourselves or socializing (servants) or making introductions and talking to each other (guests) or getting the feast prepared (chefs) Make ready for the first stage of the event! I'll post again in two weeks, sooner if you all post before then

[Illuvia]

Type under here

Working ’security’ wasn’t exactly a new experience to Illuvia, but she had never done anything like this. She realized this as soon as she’d been told that she’d be riding in a carriage. It was an experience she seldom got to enjoy but she did enjoy it all the same. Goku, whom she’d known for quite some time now would be there with her and then there was Netzach, who she’d never met before.

She’d introduce herself to him, saying, “Hi there, I’m Illuvia, this is Goku. We’re mages, as you can probably tell. We got hired as bouncers, how about you?” She’d assume he was another hireling for no reason other than he was travelling with them.

Upon arrival, it was fortunate that a man came to order her around as Luvi would likely have wandered around. She was used to being bossed around, having been on the lowest rung of the ladder in the Empire’s military. She wasn’t always so great at listening, but she tried. She would follow along and say “Yes Sir,” when given her instructions.

“Look at these uniforms,” Luvi said to Goku after she donned the provided clothing. “Looks better than anything I own,” she continued, admiring herself in a mirror.

Afterwards, she would make her way back to the entrance, looking at the various guests as she passed by until she eventually arrived near the entrance. She’d linger in that area while trying to keep an eye on the door in case “riff-raff” showed up.

[Goku]

Goku settled into the carriage, the familiar creak of its wheels beneath him as it trundled along the road. The prospect of working security didn't exactly thrill him. After all, he wasn't exactly skilled in combat despite his muscles. But the promise of a paycheck was enough to sway him, and he leaned back, content to let the journey pass in idle conversation.

As they rode, Goku listened to Illuvia's friendly chatter with Netzach, offering a nod of greeting when introduced. "Hey there," he said with a friendly smile. "Good to have you with us.”

Arriving at their destination, Goku followed Illuvia and their employer, slipping into the provided uniform with a little annoyance. The crisp fabric felt strange against his skin, a stark contrast to his usual attire, but he couldn't deny that it gave him a certain sense of authority.

He glanced over at Luvi as she admired herself in the mirror, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "You clean up nicely," he remarked, giving her a playful nudge.

Once they were all suited up, Goku fell into step beside Illuvia as they made their rounds, his gaze sweeping over the guests with a watchful eye. He nodded politely to those they passed, his presence hopefully a silent reassurance in the bustling crowd.

They didn’t have weapons so he did not think either of them would be much help, so hopefully their presence would be enough to deter bad people from trying to get in.

[Netzach Embersoul]

On the carriage ride

Netzach stuck to one corner of the carriage, peering out the window to the quickly approaching mansion as one of his hands fiddled with the note in his pocket.

He couldn't take it out, of course, since its contents were too risky to read in public. He didn't have to, though, as he had read and reread tha same sentence over and over, burning it into his memory.

Join me in the Attic Observatory of the Dubois Estate.

The note was slipped into his hand as he was walking the Earth Quarter, unbeknownst to him, a few days ago. Whoever did it quickly disappeared into a crowd shortly afterward.
Netzach soon found out about the Dubois estate, and that they were hiring for some big event. He signed up quickly, seizing the chance to enter the estate without too much trouble.

Now as he found himself on the carriage rolling towards the estate, Netzach found himself wondering whom the note was from, and what exactly they wanted.

Perhaps it was his new 'friend', Tobias. This certainly seemed well within his power, as he knew the Shadow Quarer well, and slipping a note in his hand quietly definitely seemed right up their alley.

“Hi there, I’m Illuvia, this is Goku. We’re mages, as you can probably tell. We got hired as bouncers, how about you?”

The voice of the white haired woman in the carriage, apparently named Illuvia, broke his train of thought.
Mages He looked them both up and down. The man, Goku, seemed to have wings, and Netzach was careful not to stare. What were they called... Avriel? Yes the man appeared to be of that Race.
"Hey there," Netzach saw him speak with a friendly smile. "Good to have you with us.”

The woman seemed human enough, but she radiated a sense of something off, making Netzach feel uneasy. With her white hair, and pale skin, as well as those glowing Runes she seemed to have on her hands and body. As she herself stated, clearly she was a mage.

"Netzach. I'm Netzach. I'm just someone who hopped on as a servant. The pay seems nice enough, and I wanted to mingle in high society for once, haha. I am pleased to be in the presence of two powerful mages! I do feel a lot safer knowing you'll be presiding the whole event."

What he said wasn't entirely false, and would have been the truth had he signed up without any push from that mysterious note in his pocket.

Mages, huh. Ever since he had taken a step down the path of necromancy, his life sure has had an upheaval. He sat in a carriage with two mages, one of whom was an avriel, and was on the way to the estate of one of the most powerful families in Rharne. What an adventure! Finally, a life full of adventure, mystery and intrigue. He hoped whatever awaited him in the Attic Observatory was more of the same.

As the Carriage slowed to a stop, Netzach looked back out the window, the manor finally coming into full view, filling his entire field of view with its grandiose structure.

Damn, what Netzach would give to live in a place like that. Soon, perhaps, he wondered.

Netzach stepped out of the carriage with the others, and almost as soon as he did, he heard a voice say:

"Come."

Looks like he's our boss for the event. He thought to himself.
Netzach followed, keeping pace with his brisk step. He got the sensation that things were being slightly rushed, what with the arrival of the guests and all.

They were brought into the servants quarters, rather cramped compared to the front, but most of the Dust Quarter would kill to live here, he noted.

"You two." Netzach watched as he half-barked his instructions and Goku and Illuvia "Will be making sure no riff-raff get into the manor while the guests enjoy themselves. Custodial duties might also be included, in the case of a dull night."

From the way he spoke, this man clearly ran a tight ship. Netzach hoped he could find an opening to leave and get to the attic.

He watched as the man turned his attention to him, frowning a bit, then leaned over to listen to a nearby servant whispering in his ear.

Netzach strained his ears to try and hear what they were saying, but otherwise kept quiet and waited to be addressed.

"We weren't expecting an extra server, but that will be your task. Bringing the food to the guests. Think you can handle that?"

Netzach caught the slight insinuation that he wouldn't be able to handle a task as simple as bringing food to guests, but he brushed it aside. He felt like he was the one in control. After all, he was the one who had slipped his way in for unknown purposes, for some greater plan unbeknownst to all of the people here.
Netzach bowed slightly, a hand to his heart. Netzach wasn't one for high class ettiquette, but he hoped he could just bluff his way through with confidence.

"I am more than familiar with those sorts of duties. Leave it to me, sir." he said with a slight grin.


Netzach heard the man clap and send them off to their posts.
"Off you go, make yourselves busy."


Netzach quickly changed into his outfit, overhearing Illuvia say; “Look at these uniforms, looks better than anything I own,”
And hearing Goku reply; "You clean up nicely,"

He silently agreed. These clothes were good, as they had to be for a fine establishment, but not so good that they threatened to overshadow the clothing that the high class Guests might come wearing.
A perfect balance, for a show of subservience, Netzach noted.

He made his way to the main chamber, wherever it was. He simply followed the other more permanent and experienced servants and mirrored their actions.
He as he wandered the halls, he made sure to note whether or not they were empty, planning out a route to slink away and go to the Attic to meet his mysterious correspondent.

As he carried a tray of appetizers, he made sure to keep an eye out for an opportunity to sneak off, once he felt that most of the servants, guards and pretty much anyone that could encounter him enroute to the attic, were over here instead.

Actions this post

Basically, tl;dr

1.Look around the halls and plan a route that seems deserted that he can sneak off in.
2.See if there is a lull in the attention outside of the main hall that he can take advantage of to just walk away to the attic.

[Winston]

A Formal Dinner

For the sins that Idalos had committed, the world was being subjected to the song from a ferret as he rode his way towards the carriage, atop

Chest

and beside his daughter,

Angela

, a Master Chef in her own right, and his butler

Shinwa

.

"Cookin' wid Faith now, 'oo came back far meeeee!
Oh YEEEEES, she came back far me!
Cane back tuh try some af me lovely teeeeaaaaa!
Oh yes she diiiiid, she came back far meeeeee!"

The girl beside him wore

a cloak

and some modest, but very smart, formal clothing. The ferret meanwhile, was flamboyantly dressed in blue and greens and unashamedly rocking from side to side as they approached.

The girl glanced at her father for a moment and gently shook her head in dismay. "You know, she might just leave again because of you if you keep singing that?" She said with a playful grin.

Winston poked out his tongue as they reached the coach and Chest, which contained all of the supplies for the party, was loaded onto it. After a few moments to ensure Chest was comfortable, he made his way in with the rest.

"'ello! Offered the happy little Cadouri as he entered the carriage, giving everyone, though particularly Faith, a jolly little wave. "Me most say, me es lookin' farward tuh workin' wid yuh all soh very moch." He said, as Angela and then Shinwa entered also. He introduced the two newcomers to the others in the coach, just in case. Winston might well be higher profile than the girl with him, but she was a minor celebrity in her own right as far as he was concerned and he beamed with pride at her. "Dis es Shinwa and me Daughter Angela."

"You can just call me Angela." She replied with an apologetic smile and a pleading glance at her father, whome simple beamed with a slight 'Eeeeeeee' sound of a person totally innocent of anything. "I'm really looking forward to the next few trials though as well. Winston's talked about nothing else..." She said to Faith. "...and it is taking quite some effort to explain the nature of a formal banquet to him. Hopefully you will be a good influence on him?" She smiled, the remark intended entirely in jest, but in truth, very much born from reality.

During the trip, Winston wasted not time getting to know the people he'd be working with. Angela has insisted that it was important to know the crew before the event and so he wasted no time in making that happen.

Winston would spend a fair amount of the carriage ride discussing and planning the food with Angela, and Faith if they were willing. "Soh no explosin' rainbow cakes?..." He looked hopefully at Faith as Angela scowled at the diminutive ferret.

On their arrival, he bowed to their welcome party, making introductions where necessary and ensuring that Chest was un-packed and by his side at all times. In reply to "up and coming" Winston gushed a little over his co-workers, deflectnig the attention from himself. "Oh yes, yuh managed tuh get quite de dream-team here..." He said, not only including Angela and Faith in the center of that compliment, but whole party as he was already convinced they were firm friends after the short trip (whether they were or not). "...me very share we will provide a great feast far yuh."

As they were taken off to their quarters and (more importantly) the kitchens, Winston approached their hosts (with Faith and Angela, of course) before parting. "Tanks soh moch far choosin' tuh have os tuh host yuh party fud. Me wud really like tuh discoss de menu before de event, at yuh canvinience, af carse, jost tuh get a clear picture af wat yuh wantin'." He was very inclusive of Faith and Angela, as equal partners in the affair, but if or when that discussion happened, Winston would spend far more time getting to know their hosts, than know their menu preferences,

so that he had plenty to work with when it came to 'inspiration time'

.

As it was, Winston went about helping to ready the kitchen. If, in any way, the kitchen(s) provided by their hosts were lacking, Chest served as a fully equipped second location for cooking, preparation and supplies. It would be obvious, quite quickly, that Winston's 'method' was somewhat more disorganized than his companions and saved only by the efforts of those with him as Angela and Shinwa applied their time managing the logistics as Winston worried primarily about whether the cucumbers were 'happy' and the cake flour was not being 'ignored', in case it started to sulk... When he was not fussing over

the eccentric preferences of his ingredients

, he was socialising with the people that arrived, which in private moments he referred to as 'research' if Faith were to ask.

Meanwhile, if Faith needed anything, she would find Shinwa at hand and highly talented in the world of providing for any need. Also, Angela would take every opportunity to support her, not only to ensure Faith (higher up in the kitchen's pecking order for the trial) had everything she needed in her kitchen, but that if the opportunity arose, the girl could learn and steal her culinary secrets!

As other guests arrived, if Winston recognised any of them, he'd explosively welcome them as warm and fond friends, which was particularly true when Tristan turned up! "OH! Tristan!" He exclaimed at some moment when they were able to find a moment to talk. "Me soh excited. Dis es me first big, official, gig! Eeeeee. Me soh pleased yuh con be 'ere..." He said, as if sharing something that was a little bit of a secret. "Me 'ope de flamey does nah get outta cantrol again."

After whatever they discussed came to a close and before Winston moved off around the other guests, he took a moment to share something of great import with his friend. Scurrying up to his shoulder, he asked the man to come see something with him. It was a ploy, a ploy that Tristan would likely have no issue seeing through, but if he consented, once they had enough privacy to speak freely, the ferret shared his news. "Jost wanted tuh mentchun, en case yuh didn't already know. Faith es alive, 'ere and very well. Bot she's last a lat af 'ere memaries." The ferret didn't labour the news, but simply delivered it in a gentle and kind fashion, in a place Tristan could 'have his reaction' (if there was one) without losing face to any of the other guests if that was a thing he needed... If not, then there was nothing lost.

Winston was not 'looking for a reaction' and not interested in seeking one either. He merely wanted the man to have this news in advance of standing in a room with the woman for the first time in a crowd of people... But perhaps he already knew and all was fine.

Action Summary

• Winston already has a fully-functioning kitchen prepped inside Chest, to allow him a little more time to socialise, as is hi 'method'.
• Invested his considerable social talents in getting to know the service crew and their hosts alike.
• Planned the food/menu with Faith and Angela.
• Kinda is using his cappy "The Voice of Hunger", but more specifically, right now, since he's not yet making the food, it's really about getting to know the people well enough to be ABLE to use that cappy when the time comes
  
  Note: I'm not specifically requesting RP with the hosts ragering the menu later. It can be 'off screen' if that suits the thread best. However that comes is totally fine, of course. I'm really just suggesting that Winston WOULD make an effort to get to talk to them and gain a good understanding of what makes their belly's tick.
• Winston socialises with ALL of the guests as they arrive, for the same reasons as above, to help inform his creative nature later.
• Tells Tristan that Faith is here, just in case he didn't already know.

[Vincent Steinitz]

Vincent settled into the plush velvet seat of the carriage, savoring the rare sensation of luxury. The carriage’s interior was lined with deep maroon fabric, gold accents tracing the edges, creating an ambiance of opulence he was not accustomed to. His usual mode of transport involved precarious perches atop overcrowded carriages or rough, splintering wooden seats surrounded by cargo. This was a welcome change, a moment of serenity amidst the chaos of his usual life.

He extracted a cigar from his pocket, a brand far superior to his usual fare, courtesy of Crow's connections. Striking a match, he lit the cigar and watched as the smoke tendrils curled into the air, blending seamlessly with the evening fog. He inhaled deeply, feeling the smoke fill his lungs, then exhaled, letting the tension drain from his body. Leaning back, he closed his eyes, contemplating the night ahead. A shopping spree would have been ideal, but the potential connections he could forge today outweighed any personal indulgence. The elites of the city could open doors that were otherwise sealed shut.

Vincent chuckled to himself, the cigar’s embers glowing brightly. “It pays to have friends in high places and low places,” he mused aloud, taking another long drag.

The carriage came to a gentle halt, and Vincent opened one eye to see his fellow All-Taverns competitors entering. They exchanged greetings, Vincent’s grin widening as he acknowledged them. “That was one hell of a final you guys,” he said, a note of admiration in his voice. Turning to Azrael, he added, “I’m still having flashbacks of getting punched by that Glasser gal.”

“Commander,” he greeted and nodded respectfully towards Vivian and her companion, who seemed vaguely familiar. Vincent couldn’t place him, but he had an air of importance that Vincent knew better than to overlook. He took out the cigar box, offering cigars to Azrael, Vivian, and the stranger, Vincent noted the cigars were of a better quality than he usually indulged in, another part of Crow's loaned attire.

“Must’ve taken an army of servants to clean up the house,” Vincent commented as the manor loomed into view through the fog. “Must be nice, being rich and powerful.” He flicked the remains of his cigar out of the carriage window.

The carriage stopped, and Vincent waited for the others to disembark before he stepped out. A shanty tune, hauntingly familiar, wafted through the fog. He recognized it from his childhood spent aboard ships, even if the lyrics had long since faded from memory. The language of the rakahi sailors echoed in his mind.

Vincent’s eyes scanned Nathaniel Dubois, committing his features to memory. He observed the other guests arriving, mentally cataloging their faces and names: Tristan Venora, noted for his contributions to the Glass Quarter Gardens, and the head of the Order of the Adunih. Knowing these individuals could prove advantageous.

When the host approached, Vincent opened his mouth to speak but closed it with a smile when no words came from Dubois. A handshake and a smirk were enough for now. He shifted his focus to the other guests, beginning with Tristan Venora. “Hello, Mister Venora, I’m Vincent. I couldn’t help but overhear what the host said about your addition to the Glass Quarter Gardens. Simply gorgeous, I must say.” He flashed a grin, recalling his last visit to the gardens, which had ended with him lightening a gentleman’s purse.

Next, he approached Gennadiya. “Hello, I’m Vincent. I wanted to thank you on behalf of my friend Little Timmy and Annie from the Earth Quarter. Your clinic has made a significant impact on their lives.” He smiled warmly, remembering the stories Annie had shared about the clinic’s influence.

Vincent continued mingling, introducing himself and making mental notes of each guest. His uncle Leon’s lessons echoed in his mind: it pays to have friends in high places. Each handshake and polite conversation was an investment in his future, a step towards a network that could provide protection, opportunities, and information. This event, with its mingling of power and influence, was a rare chance for Vincent to solidify his position and expand his connections. He intended to make the most of it.

[Tristan Venora]

The Dubois Patriarch, the father of the current Voice on the Council that acted as a representative for the citizens of Rharne, was dead. He had supposedly died of natural causes, but Tristan wasn’t so sure about that. There was always a chance of foul play when powerful people died suddenly. The fact that his grandmother had told him that his son and heir Nathaniel Dubois had been notably scarce at the funeral proceedings had only made him more curious about what exactly the matter was with the Dubois family, but as long as there was no definite proof of a crime, whatever was going on wouldn’t be any of his business.

It probably wouldn’t be any of his business regardless.

Apart from the circumstances of the Dubois Patriarch’s death, there was another thing that he couldn’t help but be curious about as his grandmother and he waited for their carriage to arrive.

“I wonder if Nathaniel will continue to serve as the Voice now that his father is dead”, he mused and proceeded to furrow his brow slightly.

The man might be rather busy dealing with what his father had left to him in the coming seasons.

“You could become the next Voice. You are popular enough. A seat on the Council would suit you well and help your long-term political goals”, Ebony Venora retorted in a cool and calm tone of voice.

“I’m not a born Rharnian”, Tristan pointed out. He wasn’t sure if he was particularly interested in the position. Being a member of the Council would take away even more of the time he spent with his family, his friends and his pets.

“Does the law require you to be a born Rharnian in order to gain a seat on the Council?” Ebony wanted to know. In her opinion, Tristan ought to be a little more ambitious.

“We’ll check”, Tristan promised in order to mollify his grandmother just as the carriage arrived. The lanterns on it made it hard to miss, even in the fog that troubled Rharne that trial.

~~~

Both Tristan and his grandmother were wearing clothes of the highest quality, made of silk and velvet and brocade that were suitable for such an occasion. Tristan was wearing a dark blue suit with exquisite black and silver embroidery to match his blackened nails and the runic markings on his face while Ebony was wearing a nearly floor-length ruby red dress and a matching fascinator with a short veil. Bright, jewel-like colors looked best with silver hair, Tristan had advised her when it had come to choosing an outfit for the party, and she had accepted his advice.

She acknowledged that he knew more about such things than she did.

“I’m Tristan Venora”, Tristan introduced himself to the other passengers and entered the carriage before he extended a hand towards his grandmother. She took it and gracefully stepped into the carriage.

“And this is …”, he continued and gestured towards his grandmother.

“Lady Ebony”, she interrupted him and cast a glance at Tristan. She’d noticed that there was a woman with them, a young woman that appeared to be of a similar station as her grandson and that was quite appealing.

In fact, there were two young women, but one of them was pregnant and obviously married.

Tristan inclined his head barely noticeably when he heard his grandmother’s introduction, understanding what she had meant. It might give people a strange impression if they realized that his grandmother accompanied him, and more importantly, it might also kill the mood.

It might be best to keep things quiet, at least for a while.

Grandmothers weren’t exactly …

He made a face as driver began to sing some sort of sea shanty and the carriage suddenly began to jostle. A moment later, the young woman – Blythe – was suddenly sitting next to him and bumping against him. He raised an eyebrow slightly before he smiled at her and offered in a charming tone of voice, “Feel free to lean against me or hold my arm if that happens again. I don’t know if there’ll be assigned seating”, he continued and furrowed his brow, having noticed that she seemed to have come alone. “But if there isn’t, feel free to join me at my table. You are from Rynmere as well, aren’t you? How long have you been living in Rharne, if you don’t mind me asking?”

The questions were meant to give her the opportunity to talk about herself, if she wanted to, and they would hopefully lead to him finding out more about her. He purposefully avoided complaining about their driver as that wasn’t a particularly pleasant topic. If he wasn’t totally wrong about Nathaniel Dubois, the man would be unemployed very soon, anyway. Unless his being drunk was part of some sort of Rharnian tradition?

Ebony did of course not join the conversation between Blyth and Tristan, but made pleasant small talk with Genna and her party instead. She was especially interested in Genna’s work with the Order and congratulated her husband and her on their baby, as was appropriate. Children were a joy, she said to them. She had a young granddaughter herself.

~~~

When the driver didn’t even open the door for them, but just stumbled off, Tristan shook his head. He eyed the flask for a moment, wondering what kind of brew he had ingested for him to be in such a state, before he left the carriage. He offered each of the women a hand in order to help them out of the carriage, provided that there was no servant to do so.

(Doing the work of a servant when there were real servants about was not acceptable.).

“Shall we?” he asked Blyth. If she wanted to, she was welcome to join him as they walked up to Nathaniel Dubois.

“Mister Dubois. Thank you for your invitation. I'm honored”, Tristan greeted their host with a friendly smile and shook his hand. “I could say much the same about you. I’m glad to finally meet you. If you want me to, I can give you a personal tour of the gardens and my other additions to Rharne sometime”, he offered before he turned to face Vincent.

“Thank you, Vincent”, he said to the other man and smiled at him. “You took part in the tournament, didn’t you? Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it this arc, but I hope to watch again next arc. Will you fight again?”

It would be obvious to Vincent that Tristan was genuinely curious.

Tristan waited for Vincent’s answer before he entered the manor proper.

If Blyth was still with him, he would ask her if she wanted to join him as he tried to find out who else was attending the party, greeted the other guests and made a bit of small talk with them in order to get to know them better (while still focusing most of his attention on Blyth as it should be). Otherwise, he would socialize with the other guests alone. In any case, he also paid some attention to the keepsakes that were on display as such things could tell you a lot about a person’s life. What kind of man had the Dubois Patriarch been?

When Winston approached him – he hadn’t known that his friend would be there – he greeted him enthusiastically and with a bright smile on his face. “It’s so good to see you again, WInston! You must be very proud! I’m really excited about your food, and I wish you the best of luck.”

“What about that flamey thing though?” he whispered in a conspiratorial tone of voice and leaned closer to the cadouri. He was very curious about the event that Winston had hinted at, and a tiny bit worried. “Please tell me!”

Ebony lingered nearby for a moment before she began to mingle with the other guests as well. She didn’t just make small talk though, but paid close attention to what the other guests were talking about. When she had been younger, she had been able to give most professional spies a run for their money. In fact, she still could, although she had officially retired from the political scene.

She didn’t stray too far from her grandson, but made sure that she always knew where Tristan was, and she was poised and elegant, a true leader that stood out in her magnificent dress.

She noticed when Winston asked Tristan to join him once more and wondered what it was all about.

Just like Tristan. The former duke excused himself and followed him, looking curious and confused at the same time. When Winston claimed that Faith was alive and well, he blinked for a moment. That was the entirety of his physical reaction. He had his body under remarkable control in the face of such news. He couldn't afford to lose control now.

Of course, his emotions were a different matter.

They alternated between happiness, joy, concern and confusion at lightning speed.

He didn’t doubt Winston though.

He just asked, “How? Did Vri bring her back? Or Famula? And why has she lost her memory?”

Notes

Ebony’s skills: Leadership: 76, Politics: 55, Deception: 51, Etiquette: 51, Intelligence: 51, Discipline: 51, Socialization: 30, Teaching: 26, Investigation: 26, Detection: 26, Endurance: 26, Business Management: 25

[Gennadiya Lyosha]

I am a damsel

locked in her tower,

but I am my own capture.

No one else has the

strength to lock me away.

You though have the key

to free me from myself

DATE

Genna had slowed down. Well that wasn’t true, she was walking slower but was still pushing to get things done at her normal speed. Those closest to her felt exhausted for her. A perfect example was the fact that in her final trials of pregnancy, she was going to this gathering. Genna did have outfits appropriate for this type of gathering, but they currently didn’t fit. Pablo didn’t have anything this fancy but Genna had been happy to help her husband and herself find something appropriate. The young woman looked at Pablo and smiled. He was dressed in a silk shirt with a rich maroon coat that buttoned to his waist but hung to mid calf. Made of velvet it was embroidered in complicated patterns. He did wear his ceremonial sword at his waist. Genna herself was in a marron gown that was tight across her upper body and gathered just above her waist. She wore a number of underskirts. The outer most layer was made of velvet while the under layers were made of silks. Despite the nod towards her current shape it was still obvious she was pregnant. Like her husband her clothing was embroidered. Heavily on the outer layer, as well as on the exposed part of the second layer.

Pablo stood by her, even Genna had taken to sitting when it wasn’t necessary to stand, as they waited for the carriage. “Really. Do we have to wear this?” He asked.

“Is it uncomfortable?” Genna asked curious. She had insisted on fitting for comfort.

“Its fits fine. I am just not used to this much finery.” He said. Genna smiled at him.

“Did I mention I love you.” She said. “Unfortunately some people take such ornamentation seriously. You do look handsome though.”

“I love you to.” He said and the gave each other a quick kiss. “Are you going to be okay?”

“I will be fine. Will you be.”

“If I am lucky I can just be a wall flower.” Pablo said.

“You a wall flower.” Genna said standing as the heard the sound of the carriage approaching.

“I really don’t think most of these people, with the possible exception of the tournament winners are going to relate to me.” He said. People sometimes didn’t realize it but Pablo was the intellectual equal of his wife. Even if he had been sent to a private school. He focus was just different then hers which pleased her. She was pleased to see that he had though about the coming event in a serious way. He grinned at here. “Do you think they will want to hear some of my stories.” Genna also understood what that actually meant. She smiled a shook her head. “Possible.”

The two climbed in to the carriage as it came by. Eventually they were joined by others. Genna watched with amusement as one young woman worked her way to sit by a handsome young man. He introduced himself as Tristan Verona and the older lady with him as Lady Ebony. Genna was fairly sure that the older lady was his grandmother, but Lady Ebony seemed to want to not dappen Tristan’s chances with the woman.

Pablo also introduced both of them. In the foggy conditions Ymiden’s mark stood out even more as Genna’s platinum blond hair, which was elegantly braided, was also glowing with soft yellows and pinks of dawn. Genna decided she like Lady Ebony really quickly as the woman made small talk with them. Genna shared about her work, and smiled brilliantly at the congratulations about their expectant baby. In return she also asked about Lady Ebony’s granddaughter. This was someone who clearly had the training of the upper class but the practicality of the everyday person.

As they climbed out of the carriage Genna watched the driver as he wander away. She found the behavior odd. She had seen plenty of drunks before but something about this man’s behavior did seem different. She glanced at her husband who was also watching and the twos eyes meet and they nodded at each other.

Then they were introduced to Nathaniel Dubois. Genna had meet him before on a couple of occasions but smiled happily at him as he came up to meet them. He noticed she didn’t use her name, even if he did mention what she did. She was aware that as a transplant some viewed her with suspicion, and she noticed that he kept the focus on her while greeting them. “It is a pleasure to see you again Voice Dubios. I don’t believe you have meet my husband Pablo of the Arishina Clan, who have served Rharne’s as Knights and priestess for generations.” And taking his wife’s verbal que stepped forward and shook the man’s hand, grinning at him. Politely forcing an introduction. “It is a pleasure to be invited, though we are sorry about your losses.” He said the last part with a sympathetic frown.

Then the couple moved on.

The began to mingle then. Genna smiled at Vincent as he made the rounds introducing himself listened as he comment on the saving some people he knows. “It is nice to meet you Vincent.” Genna said and chatted until the man moved on. The continued to talk with others and Genna observed those who wanted to just mingle and those who seemed to have a purpose. She waddled over when Winston made an appearance. “Winston, I am so excited to see you here.” She would talk with him as long as he hand time or cared to before moving. She did notice later that he did pull Tristan aside.

The two of them approached the Tournament winers to congratulate them on there victory. Genna would greet Vivian and the long time friend she was. The two women had gone through many things together and while they moved in different circles and interest Genna considered the Knight one of her closest friends, and trusted ally.

All they while Genna watched the crowd around them. Not looking for anything suspicious, but just a habit. One didn’t attend a boarding school and not learn that gatherings like this were more then just a party.

~NPC~

Pablo

Lilabell

Koyla

Michail

Nayeli

[Vivian Shiryu]

Vivian nodded at Vincent. They hadn't fought each other at the tournament, but she thought she remembered having seen him before the matches started. "Aye, that final round was fun. Got really close too, especially there at the end." she said, her tone cheerful. "Though I'm not sure if I merited this invitation based on my tournament standings or my rank." she said, grinning a bit at that. She turned down the cigar, since she didn't smoke, and looked up at the house and let out an amused huff when Vincent said it must be nice to be rich and powerful. "I've spent most of my life dealing with the rich and powerful, in more than one way for the latter. I've never really understood the appeal of all that wealth, myself. What does one even do with all that money?" she asked, though someone who was paying attention might notice a clip to her voice when she spoke. A note of irritation and stress.

When Nathaniel greeted her, though, she smiled and shook his hand. She was dressed as formally as she owned, which meant her dress uniform in this case. She had left her sword, Shiryu, at home, but she was wearing her warp gate ring, just in case of trouble. She gave a wry smile when he brought up the possibility of her joining the Rharne council sometime in the near future. "I see you've kept up with the rumor mill. But whether or not I join the council is up Urien and Ilaren." she said, her tone calm, but there was a firmness to it. Whether or not Vivian knew anything about any upcoming promotion she might be in line for, she wouldn't be discussing it until an official announcement was made.

Vivian went into the house and thought about making her way to the kitchens where she'd heard that Faith would be working during the party. But she controlled herself and instead decided to mingle among the guests. Best not to let anyone with malignant intent get the idea that she had a special interest in anyone in the kitchens. She did make a point to pop over to Winston when he showed up, however. "My apologies I missed your visit to my house this past cycle, Winston. I was on duty out in Storm's Edge. I trust you enjoyed your visit to Rharne, though?" she asked, her tone casual. She hoped he noticed that she was pointedly not bringing up Faith's revival in mixed company. Vivian didn't have any reason to doubt Winston's intelligence, quite the opposite actually, but he was also a very social person and not, so far as she knew, someone experienced in dealing with criminals or worse, who might be looking to spy on or rob The Voice during his father's funeral.

Once their conversation was done, she smiled and warmly greeted Gennadiya. "Good to see you again, Genna. I see you're coming along with the new addition to your family." she said, her tone cheerful. She also turned to face Pablo and grinned. "Good to see you again, Pablo." she said. Vivian didn't know Genna's husband all that well personally, but he had, so far as she was aware, a good reputation in the knights. "Make sure you put in for leave if you haven't yet, though, yeah? Babies will wear the both of you out." she said, her tone gentle.

[Azrael]

10 Ymiden 724

It's a dead man's party, who could ask for more?

It had been suggested to Azrael that he needed to wear clothing of a higher standard than his usual wardrobe. Unfortunately when you lived on a boat and drank a lot, you didn't always have the nicest and cleanest clothing. He could have gone out and purchased a new outfit but he figured that would bode poorly for his budget. Besides, what did he really need fancy clothing for anyways? He was sure to be more stunning than whatever he was wearing. Who chose to let their clothing outshine them? Still, it was to be a formal event so he decided that the usuals leathers and cotton's wouldn't quite cut it. Even if he'd worn those sorts of things to the tournament that earned him his invitation here.

In the end he decided to lean into one of the giftsDivine Opulence (Minor) - The ability to permanently beautify the Elindria’s possessions, allowing Edasha’s Blessed to truly live a life filled with beauty, regardless of their income. Use of this ability improves the aesthetics of any item that the Elindria owns - clothing, furniture, pots and pans, etc. The only exception at this stage is buildings. Living beings (ie. animals, plants, and mortals) are not affected by this ability. In order to channel this ability, the Elindria must have the object within his or her line of sight and focus on it. While the object that is affected is selected by the Elindria, the outcome of the aesthetic change is dependent on the Elindria’s individual personality, as well as their mood when using the ability. He or she is unable to predict what will occur from the change, though the changes will always be aesthetically pleasing to the Elindria’s eyes. When changed, the object will always keep its original function (ie. a vase will only ever turn into a more beautiful vase). For example, a simple, homespun dress may be turned into a flowing silk ball gown with a delicate strap made of fabric flowers and a straw mattress may be turned into a soft bed filled with high-quality goose feathers. The ability may be used once per trial. It is important to note that the item memorizes its owner and will always revert back to its original aesthetic once it leaves the Elindria's ownership through sale, gift, theft, or other means. his mother had given him recently. In the trials leading up to the celebration, Azrael 'enhanced' articles of clothing so that they'd be more fitting for the occasion. The problem was that he thought everything looked good as it was so all that really seemed to shift beneath his mother's power was the material, color, and and addition of some golden embroidery. He was going to be far from the most fancily dressed but he'd fit in well enough... he hoped.

He was excited to go to a party that he wasn't hosting, even if he had to go without any of his usual friends. They'd all been busy and because of that, Azrael left Zaza on the ship to guard the other statue of Azrael. On the bright side, he hoped it meant he wouldn't have to do all the cleaning after the celebrating was done. He was aware that the nature of the gathering was a more somber one, but it was still a party. A man had died and his family was rich so they celebrated. It was far from the most heartbreaking of losses. Yet even with that mindset, Azrael found himself drawn to his darker aspects. Perhaps that was why he had accepted the invitation. Guilt. Who threw a party for a dead man? Someone who desired something or regretted something. Guilt. All the same, Azrael was ever the festive guest on the way to the celebration.

The fog was entertaining in its own way. It made Azrael think of his journey to meet the Dark Mother. At least this fog hadn't left him feeling weary and drained of life. Not that the Dark Mother's fog hadn't had its own benefits. Azrael was more than willing to be carted around however their host decided because he had yet to figure out how the Riverman got his boat to travel across land. Once Azrael did, he would probably take the ship everywhere. Until then, a carriage with the others who had fought at the All-Taverns Tournament was more than good enough for him.

He recognized Vivian immediately when he entered the carriage but not the other who he had been scheduled to fight before Marilee took his place. Poor Marilee. She'd been given a second shot and lost twice in a single trial. At least Azrael could say he only lost once, and it was in the finals. Second best was good enough for him. He wasn't jealous. No. Totally not jealous. Not at all. That was his mother's thing, not his. Azrael had no idea who the fourth man was but that was probably a good thing. If he didn't recognize the commander of the Lightning Knights, it meant he hadn't done anything significantly wrong... yet.

"Oh yeah, Marilee was... something." Azrael said to Vincent, admittedly having his own flashback to the terrifying force behind her hits. "I still think her punches hurt the most though. Even more than Avelza's grappling." Azrael gestured towards Vivian. When Vincent offered Azrael a cigar he gladly took it but he didn't light it. He turned it around in his hands a few times and considered using his mother's gift to try and enhance it. What would Azrael's perfect cigar be given that he didn't usually partake? He hadn't used the ability yet on this trial since his outfit had been complete on the one before. He held it up and decided, "I'll save this for later but thank you."

Apart from greeting as they entered, Azrael was uncharacteristically quiet along the route to the estate because he kept finding himself looking out into the mist. His hand idly scratched the crow embla on his face for a few trills. He was looking for spirits. Ever since the Dark Mother had expanded his domains he had been given the ability to forge pacts with the ephemeral beings but that wasn't where his interest came from. It came from Anona on his wrist and the problins on his ship. He was surrounded by spirits all the time and this mist made him think of them. He only pulled his attention back into the carriage after a sharp bump jostled him.

The exterior beckoned for his attention again when Azrael noticed the strange things lighting their path. The Dubois had set up strange braziers which seemed to be keeping the fog near them at bay. Was the fog a frequent occurrence or had they just overspent on a light source to make their party look better? Azrael sorta hoped for the latter though the former might have made more sense. The carriages came to a stop and Azrael was among the last to get out.

Nathaniel Dubois greeted them all together and then individually. Azrael listened to what Nathaniel said to everyone as well as he could. He wasn't necessarily looking for advice on how to host parties, but he was definitely taking notes. Plus, it helped him get a little more familiar with who everyone else was. Azrael admired Nathaniel's attitude towards his recent loss. Maybe he'd been wrong in his earlier assessment. Why shouldn't the end of a life be celebrated as vigorously as the beginning of one? Nathaniel moved down the line of his guests and eventually reached Azrael. When he mentioned the All-Tavern's a small smirk spread over Azrael's face.

"Ah, thank you. I'm honored to have been invited." Azrael said as he shook their host's hand. "Sorry if I cost you any bets. She did it." He nodded his head towards Vivian with a playful smile. He was clearly joking. He wasn't sorry if he cost anyone any bets.

After their host finished making his rounds he invited them to socialize and warned them about straying off into the fog. Hadn't one of the carriage drivers just done that? He'd been drinking something too. Azrael wondered what was in the flask. Maybe that was just Anona expressing herself. Maybe Azrael really liked alcohols. It was hard to know for sure. Vincent began introducing himself to the other guests and Azrael peered off into the fog once again in search of spirits or the wandering carriage driver.

Eventually he followed the footsteps of their host into the main room. He kept mostly to himself at the start and looked around at all of the beautiful keepsakes from the dead man's life. Each one must have had some grand story behind it. Half the fun for Azrael was making up the most wild stories possible for whatever he found.