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Mord's words give a deathly chill to the guard at the fort's gates, you'd swear he wasn't able to hear a single phrase from the countess who he had almost rebuffed at the door. "...Right. A thousand apologies." He seems almost afraid to move, but nonetheless he walks towards the great door and opens it, all while keeping an eye on Mord. "The Countess will be in the great hall, straight forward past the shrine and then to the right. Please refrain from entering the basements, and please don't tell her we almost turned you away." Entering the castle is a somewhat quiet and somber affair. There are servants dressed in fineries to greet you at the door and usher you forward, asking if you might want something to drink or eat, or if there are any special accommodations for guests such as yourself. They all seem somewhat nervous and panicked, shifting their eyes around to various parts of the room whenever spoken to. Their eyes are most assuredly kept to the floor when they speak. All of you hear a woman's scream from the great hall traveling throughout the entire fort. And then... Music. "Oh, Uncle! Thank you so much! I simple *adore* it!" Turning the corner, the six of you all enter the great hall where Floretta Margriff can be seen brandishing a gem encrusted rapier and mock-swinging it somewhat wildly. She mocks stabbing a local mayor in the heart with it, which is only laughed off by the room sparsely populated by the duchy's nobles, a few key officials, and many of the fort's inhabitants that seem to be enjoying their first good meal in quite some time. The room holds many tables with a wide assortment of foods- with nothing else than a great uncut cake at the very center. Standing next to Floretta is none other than her uncle and Grand Confessor to the church Julian Margrave The Grand Confessor has always been one to appear where the fighting has been at its most wearisome- oftentimes traversing into the middle of battle in order to save the lives of the unfortunate caught in the middle of the conflict. It's because of these heroic efforts that he was able to obtain the title of Grand Confessor in the first place, and most likely why he is at Fort Besselat in the first place. "Your efforts on the battlefield have not gone unnoticed. Continue to pray, and your diligence towards Bahamut, and our Queen, will be rewarded." Sitting to the left of where the countess would be seated at the grand table is an elderly knight clad in black armor. He doesn't seem to impressed with the scene of the countess' gifts. Zarafae- you recognize this man from the Order of Bane. Who is he, what title does he hold, and what notable things has he done? "Oh, but it would appear that you have new guests on your nameday!" "Guests? I didn't..." The Countess pauses for a moment in a state of confusion. "The woman in blue I recognize, but I don't know the others. Just who are you guys, anyways?"
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# ? Jul 6, 2016 23:37 |
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# ? Apr 17, 2024 01:47 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham Uh oh. Keira has forgotten what it's like not having a servant or two around to remind her of important dates, such as the birthdays of other nobles. She has no concrete gift, but she can probably delay with the introductions long enough to think of something… : “You have my sincere apologies for appearing at your special feast without announcing our presence first, Countess Margrave. We thought you might enjoy a bit of a surprise. Many happy returns to you. With me are Deacon Siegmund Razinov, Inquisitor Nina, and Aseir Jassan of the Church of Bahamut, Sister Zarafae Quavein of the Order of Bane, and Sir Mord, a knight. Along our journey, we were attacked by bandits and captured their leader, whom we have brought to you for interrogation and imprisonment, as we still have far to travel. Since we were in the area anyway, we decided to come pay our respects to you. And if you are interested, I have written a song in your honor to celebrate this wonderful day. I had planned to hire a bard to come sing it to you, but since I happen to be here myself…” Keira’s grin seems slightly more sincere than normal. Tinged with nervousness perhaps, but her love of singing is enough to overcome that.
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# ? Jul 6, 2016 23:57 |
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Sir Mord Sir Mord, mood lifted by bullying a lesser, removes his helmet as he enters the hall and gives a proper bow when he is introduced, content to let someone better mannered to handle things for now.
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 00:05 |
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The Countess looks delighted at Keira's proposal, she casually flings her rapier over to the side of the room to be caught by the Grand Confessor, and in an excited fashion goes over to greet Keira with a hug. "Oh, a fellow countess at my very own party! Here I was thinking it would be a dull affair with nothing but old men and politicians. I was wondering who had presented me with such a *lovely* gift, the last one was only-" *ahem* "What the countess means to say is that you and your companions are welcome to stay the night and partake in the celebration." A forced smile can be seen from behind his thick, scraggly beard. "But I do wish to hear this song of yours! Nothing would delight me more."
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 01:04 |
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Nina the Burned Nina looks up from her book with some surprise once Mord lays down the law. It's wonderful to watch but she wonders if this might not be a bit of added delay. It's not like the road was that unpleasant. Entering the great halls Nina beckons to a servant and requests some basic medical necessities and a few unusual but not uncommon ingredients for ointments. Thinking on things a bit further, she also requests a message be delivered to the Guards: she wants the shackles back from Shyael. Standing by Keira, Nina performs a full bow. "I pray that our enforcement of the law of the land is a fitting honor to you on this day."
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 02:52 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham She laughs and hugs her fellow Countess back as she starts to tap a rhythm with her foot. Her voice is upbeat and cheerful as she belts out the words she made up while she was talking. Probably best not to mention what words originally went with the tune in such mixed company. “Let’s be merry and sing of a time/ When the light of stars flowed like wine/ We held back the dark with smiles/ And laughed as we drank the shine! “Gold-haired youths and sweetmeats/ Danced and twirled with such grace/ Duels and athletic feats/ With the songs kept apace! "This is a day such as that one/ It will be delightful to all/ Even though it has just begun/ None shall rival this birthday ball!" Keira inserts some dance steps into her performance, and takes advantage of their hugging position to physically encourage Floretta to dance as well.
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 17:00 |
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Zarafae Quavein Arrrthritis posted:
Zarafae freezes in place as she notices the man sitting by the table. She recognizes him as none other than Razovian Silver, the Primate of Limberry, the Order of Bane's absolute authority in the Duchy. Second only to the High Patriarch in Lesalia, and Bane himself of course. No member of the Order would fail to identify anyone of his rank, and even if they did it would not be a mistake they would come to repeat. His accomplishments are far too numerous to list, countless enemies of the Order have died by his hand. But if she was to mention something there was one salient rumor she had heard, that he had something to do with the traitorous Duchess Hamilton being brought to justice. One thing is certain, he is here for a reason, and she better not get in his way. Zarafae bows politely to Floretta and introduces herself after Keira's charming act is over. "Congratulations, Countess Margrave. I am delighted to finally make your acquaintance, I have heard much about you. It is always a pleasure to meet a fellow... enthusiast." She smiles slyly. "And if I may be so bold, it is truly an honor to share nameday with you." She throws a fleeting glance at the grand table behind her. "I should not take up more of your time, I am sure there are others that wish to congratulate you. May the Black Hand favor you, Countess." She bows again and steps back, then looks over to Primate Silver. He meets her look and she immediately averts her eyes to the floor and begins walking towards him, her steps filled with trepidation. She kneels in front of him and bows her head deeply in respect. "Master Silver, I am Sister Quavein. How can I serve our Lord?"
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 19:05 |
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Deacon Siegmund Razinov Just as the heathen opts to join her heathen superiors, so too does The Deacon approach the side of the High Confessor. "I understand fully. The bluster my colleagues possess is certainly nothing to sneeze at.," he says in a hushed tone. "And I can only hope that your heathen is more tolerable than mine is. Such a lust for blood and revenge..."
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 19:24 |
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Floretta is absolutely delighted with the Countess' performance, and is sure to take part in the dance that the countess offers her. When Keira's song ends, Floretta is sure to give an applause of several small claps of delight, that only moments later the rest of the room joins in. "Oh, how magnificent! Please, all of you, partake in the feast and make yourselves at home! This has turned into an aboslutely delightful evening!" From a table at one of the ends of the room, a corpulent woman can be seen standing up in applause, none other than Sylvia Webb, the mayor of Groffovia. "Oh! But we must have an encore! It's such a delight to be entertained by a countess, and such a talented one at that!" From the other end of the room, the well dressed and perfumed Hugo Rolfe, mayor of Lefondes, decides to chime in. "Song and dance is all well and good but... when is the cake going to be cut?" "Will you stop asking that, already? We have all night to enjoy ourselves! Your gluttony can wait just a moment longer, can't it?" The mayor of Lefondes takes a moment to pretend to be offended. "You wound me, my dear countess! Why, I even thought we were beginning to be friends!" The room all joins in on the mayor's joke, as if they were following their own stage directions on cue. Soon, everyone in attendance is able to meander around, talk to, and feast as they please. ----------------------- At the grand table is Razovian Silver, who gives Zarafae a look as if to signify that she had approached someone way beyond her caliber. While everyone else in attendance is well dressed for comfort, Razovian is one of the few in attendance clad completely in plate. He leans his greatsword on the grand table as if to point at Zarafae. In a very stern, soft, and commanding voice he speaks to the drow before him. "Stand up. Stop acting coy, it doesn't suit you. Wipe that smile off of your face before I slap it off. Lastly..." The Primate stands up and with one swift motion slides the chair to his right out very slightly. "It's your damned birthday. Celebrate. I need to hear about your work with the Queen thusfar." ------------------------ Julian takes heed of Siegmund's words, being careful to ponder for a bit before replying to the faithful priest of Bahamut. "The great dragon can be very trying at times, when it comes to matters of faith." A few seconds pass, and he continues to elucidate on his thoughts, raising his wrinkled hand to his scraggly beard and letting out a great sight. "In Ordallia they strictly worship Ioun; those who deviate from their goddess of knowledge are to be put to death for heresy. Yet there are those of other faiths who would contribute greatly to their nations prosperity- philosophers, generals, and even inventors. I cannot help but relate it to my own situation- here I am, breaking bread with a follower of Bane. Though Bane is one of the most truly despicable gods I know of, how am I to dismiss someone so blindly for their own choice of worship, despite his vow to uphold the peace above all else? How do I know that his faith was his own choice to begin with?" The grand confessor shakes his head, uncertain. "I cannot know at a glance what events led him to his dark road. I can only hope to understand, and let Bahamut be the rightful judge when all is said and done."
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 20:18 |
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Sir Mord Sir Mord soon finds himself boasting about his newest martial accomplishments to the mayors, using two tiny forks and a slice of mangled cake to illustrate a particularly gory scene.
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 21:06 |
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Nina the Burned After seeing to some of the refreshments and indulging in a generous amount of fresh fruit, Nina ends up surveying the party with guarded caution. She tended to perform much better as a direct agent of the Queen: I'm passing through, here is what I'm doing, here is what I need, I won't destroy everything in my path. Respecting that last bit put her a few steps of courtesy above most. Entertaining nobility and being charming and witty was too much to ask. Letting instinct guide her Nina decides to join the Deacon. Respect for the Church came naturally, after all. "Good day to you, Confessor." She grants him a gracious acknowledgement and bow with full respect. "I take it that news of our arrival was a surprise... perhaps you could guide us in our task? We are seeking worthy candidates to succeed the Duchess of Linberry." Nina looks to him with a bit of wide eyed awe, probably expecting him to offer nothing short of divine prophecy. In this case his reputation has truly preceded him.
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 22:02 |
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While Mord recounts his tales of gore and glory, both mayors have very different reactions to the half-orc's display of battle prowess. "You mean you just cleaved the orc's body in twain? Just like that? How barbaric!" "Good riddance! The last thing the patrician families need is yet another band of elves who want to make the forests their homes again." "...You make a fine point, Sylvia. Still, it could have been better to make their death painless at least." ------------------------ The Grand Confessor greets Nina with a smile, and upon asked upon who to rule the duchy of Linberry takes a good long while to ponder before offering a response. "I'm afraid any recommendation I make might turn very well on me, and the church, should they turn out to be not the ruler you hoped for." For a moment he seems lost in thought, staring off into the distance past his niece before returning his gaze to Nina. "You may be better off asking yourself what qualities in a ruler you desire. Do you wish for them to be of the faith? How important is their martial prowess in a time of war? Do you wish to make an ally out of someone who wouldn't normally inherit the title?" "You may be better off going through Castle Linberry for clues as to what turned the late, *ahem*, Lady Hamilton towards the usurper's cause so that we don't have another incident like that again, although that road may be murky and questionable at best."
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 23:08 |
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Sir Mord "When steel is bared and the blood flows hot, there's no time to be gentle, mayor," Mord grunts. He looks at the mangled cake, shrugs, and takes a bite. "What about you? What is the latest tidings? I saw a battlefield on the way here, by the Falls. What happened there?"
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# ? Jul 7, 2016 23:26 |
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Zarafae Quavein "Very well, Primate." She had been smiling? Celebrate? Razovian was in a way precisely how she had expected, but at the same time far from it. Zarafae takes the seat next to him and shakes off her nervousness. She neatly cuts herself a slice of cake before she starts recounting her interactions with the Queen. "...And after Hamilton had burnt to ash we convened in the throne room. There was nothing new of note, Marshall Delacroix is still stuck in the mud outside his own castle and the Inquisition are still on their way to Fovoham. There was some talk about placing the countess Fovoham I'm travelling with on the seat of the duchy, but it was mostly empty words. The six of us were then ordered to find a successor for the late Duchess Hamilton, which brings us to today, and a question I wish to ask you." "Is there anyone you wish to see fill Hamilton's place?"
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 01:53 |
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Mayor Rolfe seems to be somewhat entertained by Mord's abrupt attitude. "I suppose it's difficult to gauge how one can act in the heat of battle." "Especially when you've never been in one." Mayor Webb lets out a slight chuckle to go with her insult. "You say that like it's a bad thing!" "It's one thing to protect your lands and play merchant, it's another thing to avoid going to Zeirchelle falls entirely because you're afraid you might damage a nail." "Atkascha is rumored to have hired The Dread Krewe to bolster his navy. What if the battle had been a feint? I can't just leave my city undefended while there's a massive galleon looming over our nation's heads!" Mayor Webb laughs at Hugo's response. "To answer your question... Mord, was it? The Duke Arran Lionel had tried to assault us through the pass at Zeirchelle, only to be thwarted by our great Countess' martial ability. The Countess plans to further engage his weakened forces over near Zaland City soon." "I hope this fighting can be over soon and we retake Lionel. All this fighting has been so bad for business!" --------------------- Razovian listens somewhat intently to Zarafae's words, taking part in the various meats and vegetables that adorn his plate. His expression doesn't change the entire time she talks. "You mean apart from yourself?" For the next few seconds, the Primate seems to be judging Zarafae's reaction, his own face completely unmoving. "Stop blushing. You'd be a piss-poor ruler and you know it- at least in this generation. You can't show someone how much you want something, otherwise it will be the knife that plunges into your back." "Countess Margrave might be a good candidate. Might. She will no doubt keep the realm secure, but who knows what will happen to Limberry once old uncle Julian meets his platinum master?" "Mayor Webb and Mayor Rolfe are no better candidates, either. Rolfe proclaims himself to be a pacifist and a voice of the people- more likely a coward using morality to make sure he never has to get his hands dirty. Webb might do a good job running the realm, but she'd also stab you in the back for a copper coin when it suits her." "Sit up straight. I know you already have an idea of who you want to rule. Let me hear it already so I can tell you how bad you are at this."
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 03:10 |
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Aseir Jassan Aseir, like Nina, feels totally out of place at the party. He's never really been to a noble's party before, and he's not quite sure what to do. In the end, he decides to tail the other Bahamut followers in the party over to the Grand Confessor. He quietly listens to his conversation with Nina and the Deacon for a moment before he decides upon introducing himself. His stomach turns into a nervous knot as he tentatively approaches the Grand Confessor. He manages to muster up enough courage to begin, his voice slightly shaky at first, "Grand Confessor, I am humbled to make your acquaintance. My name is Aseir Jassan, priest and member of the Order of Bahamut." He pauses for a second, taking a breath, trying to gain a little more confidence before continuing, "As a direct agent of the queen, I am implored to ask you how long you have been ordered here and if you have noticed anything out of the ordinary during your stay. Certainly the recent... departure of Duchess Felicia has caused some sort of chaos? Especially among the nobility I'd imagine?" He breathes a small sigh of relief after getting his question out, some of the weight of the anxiousness having been lifted from just having asked.
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 05:54 |
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Sir Mord "I can only hope to be there when they throw my thieving, treacherous cousin off his high chair to be judged before the queen," Mord says with a hungry grin. "How fares your city, Hugo? We are en route to Linberry Castle, but had not decided yet whether to go directly through Dorvauldar or around through Lefondes."
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 12:28 |
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Zarafae Quavein Zarafae lets go of her dessert spoon next to her half-eaten piece of cake, straightens her posture then folds her arms under her chest and stares straight into Razovian's eyes, almost bordering on defiantly. "How about you, Primate. Or one of your ranking clergy if your current duties are too demanding for you to rule yourself. Is it not time that the Order received the recognition it deserves for its service to the Queen? It would only be just if we were granted a duchy to rule with our black iron fist. And it would send a clear message to those Bahamut lapdogs that theirs is not the only religion with any power in Lesalia, as they often like to think."
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 15:08 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham After Keira performs a couple more songs with the minstrels, including such party standards as “Chocobo’s Lament” and “Lionel’s Final Waltz”, she tips them with some silver and a grateful smile, and then asks that they continue playing high tempo songs so she can get a dance going. That done, she hops and twirls her way across the room to where several of the party has gathered to speak with Julius Margrave. She grabs an apple nearby and munches on it as she listens in on the conversation, observing each of them with the eyes of a stalking predator. Keira waits to see if anyone will dance first without her directly asking them, but whether they do or not, she is fully prepared to strike at her target as soon as she detects a lull in the conversation.
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 17:22 |
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The Grand Confessor takes note of Aseir's appearance and his new congregation. "Well I haven't been in Limberry for too long. My days in Mullonde are long and arduous, but the Grand Inquisitor and Grand Crusader both saw it fit that I visit my niece for her nameday." He hesitates for a moment before answering Aseir's question. "I do not know for certain what the impact of the late Lady Hamilton's death will be, unfortunately. I do know that everyone in the duchy has their eyes on the title, for better or for worse, and that there are those within that would stop at nothing to see themselves within Limberry Castle." ----------------------------------- "Oh, you simply must visit Lefondes! There is a baker who only recently migrated from Istel who makes the most delicious and exotic pastries. I tell my servant to buy the shop every Wednesday so that I can simply *indulge* in the delightfulness that are Ordallian sweets." "Thankfully, Lefondes has been staying strong during the famine. I made sure to it that Arran Lionel wasn't such a savage as to embargo our trade routes into Warjilis and Goug, and the Ordallian trade routes have been growing stronger ever since the fires of war have died down." "Money is all well and good, but the people are eating well and the city is secure, for the moment at least. That's enough for me!" "Would you stop patting yourself on the back already! Groffovia is doing just as well, and *we* at least adhere to the tenets of Bahamut!" "Yes, but how many times did *you* have to raise taxes? I can't say the patrician families will appreciate that much at re-election." ----------------------------------- Zarafae can notice a slight eyebrow twitch from Razovian. You aren't quite sure if he's greatly impressed with your words, or outright angry. "Think about what you're saying, for a moment. If we put a member of the order of bane on the duchy it would be like painting a giant target on the order's back." "We have trouble enough reaching our influence to the queen as it is, can you imagine how much more difficult it will be if we have every member of the Church of Bahamut breathing down her neck saying that we're making a bid for power, or even worse, the crown?" "My own work will stick to the shadows. I'd sooner die than be forced to host these parties myself." "...Still, the idea isn't too terrible. If you were going to put one of us in Limberry you'd have to convince a lot of people." Primate Silver points towards the congregation of three of the queen's agents and Julian Margrave, with Keira only just joining in. "Starting with them."
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# ? Jul 8, 2016 17:51 |
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Nina the Burned Nina bows her head and utters a short prayer unto the Confessor. "Thank you for your guidance. I am certain it will be useful in the days to come..." Something in her head begins ringing small alarms. The sounds of festive song and invitations to dance are buzzing about the hall. Looking over to Keira's arrival, Nina feels a sudden edge in her mood, as though stepping onto a new battlefield. "Hello Countess. You've truly elevated the festivities to a new level." Her eyes close for a moment with a masked smile. "We were just speaking of qualities to seek in Linberry's successor and I'm sure your knack for handling nobility adds another plus to your name." Nina gestures between Keira and Julian for a quick introduction before continuing. "Although our investigation has not yet begun, the Countess Fovoham may be a way forward. I've come to know her as a steadfast and reliable ally, above any of the usual backbiting manipulations inherent in politics." Nina levels a stern stare at Keira, matching her predator's gaze with a lion's quiet pride. The stand off is instantaneous and muted, the unmoving silhouette of the tall Inquisitor imparting upon the young Countess Nina's heartfelt desire. Steady feet. Crossed arms. Flat stare. Tense shoulders. An embodiment of the word NO.
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# ? Jul 9, 2016 01:07 |
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Aseir Jassan Aseir glances over at Keira for a moment, trying to process what she's doing before quickly back to the conversation at hand. He has an idea of what she's doing but he's extremely nervous and not sure he wants to take part; he's never danced before in his life and he's afraid he'd make a mistake and look foolish, or even worse, step on her dress and knock them both over. He then continues talking with the Grand Confessor and the Deacon, mostly about what their favorite prayer is (Aseir's is the Prayer of the Lost--about Bahamut guiding his flock to the Light). Look Around You fucked around with this message at 19:39 on Jul 9, 2016 |
# ? Jul 9, 2016 19:12 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham : "Personally, my favorite prayers tend to be from the poems in the latter half of the Book of Bahamut. They truly highlight the importance of serving with joy. 'Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises to him with the tambourine and harp.' Chapter 93, Verse 8. What do you say, Aseir? Care to praise his name with me?" Keira extends a white-gloved hand toward the priest, a huge lopsided grin--some might even call it a smirk--on her face.
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 00:19 |
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Aseir Jassan Taken aback by both her reference and her request, he takes a moment before shakily replying, "Why um... Why certainly my lady." He takes her hand and cautiously follows her out onto the dance floor with a flock of butterflies in his stomach, rather unsure of what he should actually be doing once they get there.
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 01:24 |
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The Grand Confessor seems to be somewhat delighted with Aseir and Keira's departure. "I'm afraid it will be no good to have only one couple doing a traditional Limberrian dance." He turns his head to look toward the burned inquisitor, realizing that he's already standing at eye level of Nina. "Inquisitor Nina, would you honor me and join me in dance on this wonderful night?"
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 01:53 |
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Deacon Siegmund Razinov The Deacon, hoping to avoid making any scenes, chose to remain rather quiet for the moment, observing the events. His eyes follow the chatter between the Heathen and their heathen superior, the conversation between Inquisitor and Inquisitive, and now...Oh dear. A dance. Rather than get himself roped into spending time giving a lady his company, he begins creeping off into a corner. Better alone than to have someone pick him out as a partner and force a dance between at least one if not two disinterested parties.
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 02:05 |
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Nina the Burned She was feeling quite confident about waiting out this part of the party. Keira's sights were set on another target, most of the men at the event were too timid or disinterested to approach and she had the warm comforting clique of religious authority around her. Surely this overconfidence is what leads to Nina being caught completely unaware! Waiting for a moment to politely disengage and retreat to a secluded hall her dream of spending the rest of the evening reading is destroyed in the wake of the radiant light cast by the Confessor's invitation! A high-pitched "Hmmm?" slips out from behind her mask and one hand rises to provide redundant cover for the bottom half of her face! She turns red around the ears and her eyes widen as though an ambush had just taken place... and even that would be easier to withstand! There's no battle stance to take and no evasive maneuvers available. Regaining as much composure as possible Nina hesitantly offers her hand to Julian, waiting for him to take the lead. "I-it would be my pleasure..." She'd only have to competently follow the motions, even with two left feet made of flattened lead. She could do this! Doomykins fucked around with this message at 15:12 on Jul 10, 2016 |
# ? Jul 10, 2016 04:31 |
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music Bards begin to play a more festive song as the room becomes livelier with the sound of footsteps and dancing. Siegmund can see Countess Margrave playfully stepping towards the deacon, with a bit of flair in her step. "Don't think you're getting out of this so easily!" And thankfully enough, she walks straight past him over to Mord and begins to march onto the dance floor. Razovian Silver, a man fully clad in plate armor and still with his sword at his side, stands up from the grand table and places his weapon down on the ground and speaks to Zarafae. "I'm dancing. You're welcome to join me. Or not." The mountain of a man walks around the Drow and towards the group of dancers, all arranged in pairs. From Mord's table, the two mayors can be heard. "Would you care to join me in dance, Hugo?" "...Afraid not, Sylvia. I don't think there's anybody here who could partner my style and grace." "Shall we make a contest of the dancers then? A prize to who we feel is the best performer?" "Why, Mayor Sylvia! You're a lady after my very own heart!" Looks like Keira has started a Dance Off. Players will be eliminated per-round until there is one pair left standing, with a prize going to the winning pair. Make a skill roll with your posts, and provide a justification if you aren't using Acrobatics. Contestants will be judged on their roll & the content of their posts. In the case of Aseir and Keira, one of you will be doing the rolling, with the other being able to provide a +2 bonus in how you follow up their post.
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 20:02 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham Keira takes the lead in the dance. An unconventional setup perhaps, but she can tell that Aseir is a bit lacking in confidence. So she starts off slow, one hand holding his and the other on his hip. One step, two step. Then adding another two. When no one else is nearby, she whispers to him. : “Don’t act like you don’t know how to have a good time. If half the stories I’ve heard about you are true, you could teach me a couple things. So take a load off, we’ve earned it.” Keira confidently leads her partner across the floor, then with only a nod as warning, twirls him out at the end, before spinning him back in. At the end of the spin, she tightens her grip and dips Aseir. She incorporates many unorthodox moves into the traditional Limberrian dance. Not least of which is a few flirtatious sideways hip thrusts, and spins that lift her skirts slightly higher than they should. For the finale, she takes advantage of the momentum from a spin to hoist Aseir straight up, lifting him up by the waist into the air like a trophy. She holds the arm that isn’t holding him out to her side triumphantly, and makes a sign of Bahamut with her hand. Dance battle: 1d20+12 21
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# ? Jul 10, 2016 23:14 |
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Nina the Burned Attempting to match the others at sincere talented dancing was a fool's wager. Nina knew she could only count on her own strengths to achieve a passing victory. As Julian moves her onto the dance floor she makes a noble effort of following his lead and putting as much passion as she can into twirls, dips and shifting of the hips. She could never hope to match the grace of one like Keira but she held in her heart that she should try, intent guiding her actions the same as in battle. She had heard it given as advice once from... someone long ago. Fake it until you make it. Eyes locked with Julian's she doesn't even allow herself the luxury of doubting any individual motion. It's a bit intense and her cheeks are definitely red but the one thing she doesn't have to fake is enjoying the company of such a noble man, one who asked her first! Dance Battle: Bluff 14
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 00:28 |
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Aseir Jassan Aseir starts out gingerly, putting his full concentration on following her Keira's every move, glancing down at his feet repeatedly to make sure he's stepping where he needs to... and not on Keira's dress! He nervously laughs at her comment. "Maybe, but certainly not about dancing!" he whispers back. Surprisingly, her comment seemed to loosen him up, and as the dance goes on, Aseir gets into into a flow, stepping less gingerly and checking his footing lest often, and even flowing with the motions rather than simply following them. As Keira sets him down, he ensures he lands upright and on balance. He smiles and nods at her, "That certainly was a good first dance, Keira!" he says excitedly, as he hadn't expected to have nearly as much fun as he did. He pauses a second before whispering to her, "I'm a little surprised word of my indiscretions has spread so far... I pray none of you think lesser of me for them."
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 03:24 |
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Countess Keira Fovoham : "On the contrary, I think more of you, knowing you aren't just an unfeeling medium for preaching. I wouldn't worry too much, in any case. The others may not even know. I make it my business to keep my ear to the ground, as it were."
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 13:48 |
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Deacon Siegmund Razinov A sigh escapes his lips. He'd wanted to stay out of this, given the usual connotations of dance, and the need for certain pairs of people to go together...But given how much Countess Fovoham is demolishing the competition, he feels a need to educate the others on proper dance etiquette...Educate...An idea hits him. He can achieve his more desired result and still maintain all standing under the guise of an educator performing a tutorial. His pace quickens as he approaches the two mayors. "...Mayor Hugo, I believe there are several in this court who could benefit from a demonstration of proper form, given the performances we've seen so far. If you would accompany me, for their sakes?"
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 17:37 |
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Mayor Hugo stands up and faces Siegmund. "Why yes, a demonstration is exactly what these people need. Do you wish to lead, or should I?" He nods Sylvia adieu and follows the deacon onto the dance floor, eager to get the dancing started.
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 17:42 |
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Deacon Siegmund Razinov "I'll begin. I believe my talents will assist the most in our 'demonstration.'" He gently takes the mayor's hand and steps out to the dance floor. Once the measure resets, he begins with the classic of classics: a waltz. Step by step, to the letter and function of each step. The dance itself is by the books, but it's what he's also doing that adds to it. As the dance commences, a light show of glowing humanoid equivalents form at several locations on the dance floor. It shows two figures that are following the duo's exact movements, glimmering and sparkling with each step, For something meant to be made up on the spot, it seems almost rehearsed in its quality. How he's doing this? The same way a god can have an avatar or sign appear, so too can Siegmund create figments. Enchanted Dancing: 1d20+12 28
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 18:14 |
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Zarafae Quavein Zarafae catches Razovian's hand as he's about to pass by and pulls herself out of her chair with a little twirl, ending up at his side. "I think I'll join you, I was told to celebrate my nameday by a superior after all." She stops him from moving further towards the dance floor. "If you're interested, I'm in the mood for an Ordallian Blade Dance. As deadly as it is beautiful, it's usually performed with short ceremonial blades, but why don't we put a little twist on it." She draws her fullblade and holds it up right next to her face, it's polished metal surface reflecting her smile perfectly. "This is more befitting for our Order, don't you think? Fetch your blade, Primate. Let's inspire terror through grace." Partly dancing, partly putting their martial prowess on display, Zarafae and Razovian traverses the dance floor with their sharpened blades whirling around them like leaves in the air, forcing other dancers to pick up their pace and dance out of their way to avoid being cut down. As he pulls her in, her blade comes spinning towards him and he has to parry. As he deflects the blow and pushes her blade back she fluidly follows the motion and twirls away without missing a beat. And so it goes on for a while, they come together then part with a sudden flash of the blade. While he was clearly the more experienced swordsman, she had the advantage of having the temperamental dance run in her Ordallian blood and is able to keep up with him, albeit with some effort. The dance ends with them holding each other close, their blades crossed and held up against the other's throat. A thin red line of blood can be seen running down Zarafae's cheek from a narrow cut received from a missed step. Dance Battle (Intimidate): 1d20+12 19
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# ? Jul 11, 2016 21:20 |
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Aseir Jassan "Thank you Lady Fovoham, your words are most kind, hopefully everyone else sees it the same way, though I'm sure my brothers in faith here do not," he tells Keira. Having finished with their dance, but seeing the others still dancing, he begins to walk to the side of the floor, out of the way. He turns back as he takes his first step, calling to her, "Come, let us watch the display you began as we wait for the next song." He's particularly impressed with Siegmund's magical display and the heathen's unorthodox "battle dance".
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# ? Jul 12, 2016 00:53 |
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Sir Mord Sir Mord is caught somewhat off guard by the sudden dance battle, but recovers after a moment. Seeing the others break from the normal, elegant court dance, he also tries to show off something unusual. He flows into an athletic display, performing somersaults around the Countess, kicking his legs out while sitting on his haunches, jumping his height, running in a circle with his head on the floor, and so on. Athletics: 1d20+8 19
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# ? Jul 12, 2016 10:26 |
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Keira & Aseir Your performance seems to enthrall Mayor Sylvia, and upon finishing sends her into a frenzy of applause. "Oh, spectacular! It would be so perfect if I could see you two perform another, perhaps with Aseir leading this time? I do so wish to see how differently each faithful of Bahamut dances in celebration." Nina the Burned Nina is able to follow along with the Grand Confessor's lead- who also happens to be something of a good dancer, and fairly strong for a man of his age and profession. Julian and Nina are able to move around the floor with relative ease, with the Grand Confessor leading Nina into different catches and twirls that send the whole room into awe. The Mayor, however, is somewhat less impressed with Nina's inability to contribute to the dance. "Can someone get these two off of the floor and make room for people who actually want to win?" Julian, however, offers Nina a smile as they are ushered off of the dance floor. "A shame, but given who we were following there's nothing that could have been done. I felt very honored dancing with someone as skilled as yourself." Siegmund Razinov Mayor Hugo is quick to join in on the effects show as you lead him in a waltz. The lighting of the room dims as the steps go by, and the music begins to lower to a much more intimate volume. Mayor Sylvia remains enchanted throughout the entire dance, only piping up when the two of you have finished your turn. "Excuse me, Mayor Hugo, but isn't competing in the dance something of a conflict of interest?" "Who said anything about competing, dear Sylvia? We are only performing a useful demonstration." "Need I remind you that there are no prizes for demonstrations." "Your words are too true! That does remind me, I was so airheaded that I had forgotten my prize back in Lefondes. It pains me to say that you'll be the hero of this competition." The two of you are able to step off of the dance floor, and Mayor Hugo returns to his seat next to Mayor Sylvia. Unfortunately, you will not be able to give the audience any more demonstrations tonight. For some reason, you feel as if your pockets are heavier than before. Inside, there is a brooch decorated with various gemstones in the shape of a heart. It is a Brooch of No Regrets +1 Zarafae Quavein Razovian gives Zarafae a stern nod, then marches over to pick up his greatsword. With his massive frame and hulking figure he seems less than dexterous enough to swing his sword on the dance floor, and yet is somehow able to without causing too much bodily harm to anybody who gets too close to the two of you. Even still, he barks out instructions towards you as if the two of you were on the training ground. "Raise your sword higher. We're supposed to be fighting, not making friends." When the dance ends, you can see a wide smile plastered across his face as he holds his blade to your throat. "YES! The enemies of the Queen shall tremble in fear of our elegance!" Mayor Sylvia seems incredibly impressed with your performance, she and the entire room burst into a roar of applause. "Very good! Very good! I have to wonder... could you perform something a little bit less deadly?" Sir Mord Countess Margrave seems somewhat confused by the half-orc's display of dance. "Is this something native to Lionel? Romanda?" She pauses for a moment, studying the incredibly fast movements and somersaults. "This isn't what I was expecting..." Sure enough though, she joins in after a few moments and is able to follow along with the incredibly outrageous motions of the half orc, adding a few moments of grace and flourish into the mix of sheer athletics. Mayor Sylvia sits there in complete awe of the performance, even minutes after completion. "That was... wonderful. Please, Countess, I would like to see you and your partner perform something different." Round 2! Same rules as the previous round, only you cannot use any skills you have used previously. Aseir is leading in the group of Aseir & Keira this time. Contestants: Aseir & Keira, Mord & Floretta, Zarafae & Razovian.
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# ? Jul 12, 2016 21:30 |
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# ? Apr 17, 2024 01:47 |
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Nina the Burned In the wake of the final catch Nina looks ready to swoon, rising with a demure look for even polite applause. She remains close to Julian as they step off the floor and quietly gestures to a table, inviting him to watch the second round with her. Her eyes are lit up when he finishes speaking. "The greater honor is mine for your invitation and lead." Nina looks over the others for a moment and seems nonplussed though she has a little flat look for the Mayor... she looks back to Julian with a hidden beaming smile, her cheeks just barely risen above the line of the mask. "I feel as though in the end I have won all the same."
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# ? Jul 12, 2016 23:36 |