All - Arriving at Lady Elara's manor in the North Ward, you are greeted by a large wrought iron gate with intricate scrollwork. The gate is open, framing a stone path that leads through a lush garden toward the grand entranceway of the manor. The gardens are a treat to the senses; vibrant flowers offering pleasant scents, neatly trimmed hedges of various interesting shapes and sizes, and the sounds of water flowing playfully over rocks and under a small wooden bridge nearby. Ascending a few stone steps brings you to the spacious entryway, which is dominated by two large wooden doors with narrow windows on either side. The instant your foot steps onto the entryway, the door on the right opens and you are greeted by an older gentleman in butler's attire. He appears to be human with salt and pepper hair and a matching goatee. "Welcome, welcome!" He says with a smile, his blue eyes twinkling, "May I see your invitation?" He accepts the offered piece of parchment and inspects it briefly before handing it back to you. The butler steps aside and gestures for you to enter, "Thank you for agreeing to help Lady Elara in this- Oh, one moment please." You see the man eyeing your boots with a frown before his hands perform a serious of quick movements and you hear him mutter something arcane under his breath. Your boots are suddenly suffused with a soft blue glow that leaves them spotless when it fades. "There, much better. Lady Elara's rugs are Calishite mind you, very expensive!" The butler leads you through an opulent foyer into a hallway where you find a few empty chairs next to a curtained window. "Lady Elara is visiting with a prior caller at the moment, please have a seat." He gestures toward one of the chairs with a smile and you see him glance out the window, "Oh, it seems another is arriving. Please, make yourself comfortable, Lady Elara shouldn't be very much longer." The butler backs out of the hallway with another smile and you hear his footsteps echoing on the marble floor as he heads back toward the front door.
Please describe your character and their reactions to the scene/each other. You will arrive in the order that you post.
Lasciel Argent leisurely strolls through the North Ward and to Lady Elara's manor. This typically wasn't his beat when he was in the City Guard but eventually you saw the whole city if you lasted long enough. As such the rich opulence of the neighborhood didn't shock him, though he was a bit envious. His pace slowed, if anything, once he walked onto the grounds themselves. He took his time studying the surroundings. He wasn't sure entirely what this job was going to entail so knowing the lay of the land seemed wise. Besides, the place was beautiful to look at.
"I'm Lasciel Argent recommended here by Force Grey," Lash offers as he pulls the parchment out of a scroll holder attached to his belt. "The Lady Elara should be expecting me."
Lasciel pauses and eyes the butler suspiciously until he recognizes the look, and the spell. One of those, he thinks to himself. "Is the Lady of the house in the habit of asking for help, inviting guests to provide it and then making them feel dirty and less than?" Lasciel asks with a sneer. "Seems a bit rude." Lasciel could care less about the Lady's carpet and was certainly civilized enough to clean ones boots before entering a manor house such as this. The butler was an ass, pure and simple. Whether by trade or with the intent to show off Lasciel wasn't sure but it would take more than simple prestidigitation to make his haw drop. Still... Lash follows the butler inside.
Lasciel "Lash" Argent was once a distinguished member of the City Guard of Waterdeep and carries himself as such still. His past experiences have shaped him into a man of distinction and humility, adorned in simple yet immaculate attire that speaks of his working-class roots and unwavering pride. Framed by waves of dirty-blonde hair, his face glimmers with an innate charm, a captivating force that can sway the hearts of even the most hardened souls. The sun-kissed hue of his skin bears witness to long days patrolling the bustling streets of Waterdeep, marking him as a man acquainted with the trials and tribulations of life. Standing a bit short of six feet tall Lasciel is not the most physically imposing figure but his eyes are alert and his hand always near his weapon of choice - a whip. This unorthodox instrument of combat serves as both a versatile tool for subduing adversaries and an extension of his charisma, effortlessly striking fear into the hearts of wrongdoers and instilling inspiration among his allies.
"Would you like to clean my ass as well?" Lash asks, moving his cloak aside and giving the butler a half turn so he could see for himself before Lasciel deigned sit upon a precious chair. It was crude and probably uncalled for but Lash had taken a dislike to this butler. Still, the comment probably had the butler convinced he was right to be so persnickety but screw him, Lasciel figured. He was her to deal with Lady Elara, not her snobbish help.
As the butler leaves Lasciel does indeed sit. Upon doing so he summons his familiar from it's pocket dimension - a blue-grey cat with bright green eyes. The feline appears in his hands and Lasciel gives it a smile. "Well hello there, Smudge. Ready to scout around?" After the cat meows in the affirmative Lasciel places them on the ground so they can immediately scamper off and investigate this new place.... That done, Lasciel digs out a set of playing cards and idly shuffles the deck again and again to pass the time.
Kalhala strolls down the walk of Lady Elara's manor, enjoying the fragrant gardens, the beautiful views. A particularly red flower catches his attention and he leans over to give it a big smell. Breathing it in, he smiles, his eyes rolling back a touch and then he chomps it off and eats it, licking his lips when he is through.
Continuing on down the walk he greets the butler with first a startled noise, then a little nod to the man as Kalhala regains his composure. Handing the butler his crumpled up invitation, Kalhala blushes a touch, but then straightens up and tries not to be embarrassed at the state of the invitation. He chuckles a bit at the cleaning of his boots and smiles down at the butler, "Hey, that's a neat trick." Then follows the man to the room, taking in the manor as much as he can, craning his neck to try and see as much as he can.
The minotaur has to duck to enter the room, he is large, even for a minotaur with his sable brown coat and long slightly curled, pierced horns. His long black hair he wears consistently in a manbun between his horns and his black beard hangs in little braids adorned with red beads. He wears brown robes a few shades darker than his coat, with chain mail peaking out on his chest. A longsword is strapped to his belt, but a glaive and shield are also strapped to his pack as he heads in and finds a seat in the room.
Looking over at Lasciel he smiles and gives a half wave, then realizes they are really the only two in the room and does not need to wave. "Eh hem, hello there, my name is Kalhala. Did you get an invitation as well?"
Lash - Your insolent remarks cause a remarkable transformation of the butler's countenance, his face reddening and mouth puckering in such a way that it reminds you of a cat's backside. He practically spits false pleasantries at you before stomping off and muttering loudly about "low-born filth" and "churlish impertinence". Exploring the rest of the hallway, Smudge finds a plush runner under their paws stretching out across the highly polished marble floor. They see archways with gracefully carved columns that break the monotony of the walls, creating an aesthetically pleasing rhythm as they pass. Small alcoves built into the walls hold delicate statuettes, small potted plants, and intricate sculptures, each carefully chosen to enhance the ambiance and offer visual interest. Glistening crystal chandeliers hang at intervals, casting playful patterns of light and shadow on the walls. Each door appears to be made of heavy ironwood and is closed. If you'd like Smudge to explore the foyer, please make a Stealth check for them.
Kalhala - The butler's eyes widen at the sight of you but he quickly regains his composure and says, "Welcome to Lady Elara's estate. I see you are already enjoying the good lady's gardens..." As he eyes the pollen around your muzzle and bits of flower petal in your beard. The same neat trick is performed on your face, and you hear mutterings of "award winning amaryllises, not fodder for cattle" as you are led through an impressive foyer. Directly ahead, a sweeping grand staircase ascends gracefully to the upper levels of the manor. The balustrades are adorned with ornate carvings and delicate ironwork, while a richly woven carpet with a pattern of intricate scrolls guides your gaze upward. The walls of the foyer are adorned with gilded frames holding exquisite oil paintings that depict landscapes, portraits, and scenes of historical significance. The artistry and attention to detail in each piece evoke a sense of culture and sophistication. Crystal vases and porcelain urns housing fresh-cut flowers are tastefully placed throughout the foyer, infusing the air with a delicate fragrance and adding a touch of natural beauty to the opulent setting. The butler leads you to a hallway where another man is already waiting and gives you a quick polite smile before returning to the foyer.
You see a hooded human walk in with a weathered brown and green cloak, leather armor underneath, two swords and a bow on his back. He lowers the hood and you see this human also has some elf blood by his pointy ears. HIs eyes have a deepness to them as he surveys the room and each person there in; each no more than the other. You get the sense he is analyzing you in some way but not to a point where it would be considered discourteous.
"Pardon my late arrival. Here is my invitation." As he hands the document to the butler. he looks around at each person and drawing upon his high-elf blood says "My name is Norill and I presume we all will be working together, so let us all grant each other grace and patients as I would believe that each of us brings a strength to this endeavor." He takes an empty seat.
"By the Morninglord…"Jowyn whispers in awe as she walks reverently down the path. Her eyes drink in the garden. After eight years of wilderness warfare, she thought beauty was out in the untamed country. Even the gardens at the Dawn Cathedral were a poor facsimile compared to the hills of wildflowers, groves of candlemoss, and more. But this? This was a garden worthy of Lathander himself. Is that wrong to believe? Maybe. Jowyn is devoted to her god, but these new abilities make her see things in a new light. Even as she admires the well trimmed hedges, she imagines other hedges, far away, full of thorns and corpses.
"My name is Jowyn Alderbark. On behalf of the Dawnbringers of Our Morninglord, I am here to help," she says, producing the neatly folded invitation to the butler.
At the prestidigitation, she grins at the man, but refrains from asking what a 'cow shite' rug is. Probably impolite to ask. Instead she follows the man inside to be seated with the other impressive guests.
Jowyn is dressed in fresh gear. The Church of Lathander apparently wanted their representative to look the part, despite admiring her years of tromping through wilderness. She wears a hauberk of polished mail beneath the vestments of a Dawnbringer, with the 'path towards the rising sun' emblazoned in gold across the crimson cloth. From her belt hangs a mace, from her back hangs a shield and backpack, and in her off hand she holds a helm that bears the sigils of her order. The only sign of her time abroad is a stained strip of an old banner that ornaments her belt.
Her hair is a ruddy color and looks rebellious against being tightly braided by acolytes. She has minor scars around her face that may be expected from a long campaigner. She isn't particularly beautiful, but she carries herself with the grace reserved for those who have met with peril and faced it with courage.
"Well met,"she says courteously to the other three. "My name is Jowyn. I'm a Dawnbringer." She looks at the luxurious rugs. She grins. "So… this is a cow shite rug?"
Lash does a bit of a double take at the entrance of the Minotaur but attempts to cover it well. “Oh, hey!” Lash says brightly and standing to greet the newcomer. “Lasciel Argent, call me Lash,” he says, reaching out to shake Kalhala’s hand. “Indeed, I imagine quite a few got invitations. It should be interesting to see who actually accepts them.. “
Before Lash and Kalhala can get too deep into small talk another person enters. Lasciel greets this new one, Norill, with a handshake as well and then introduces Kalhil.
“I’m not sure we got the job just yet,” Lash advises with a bit of a grin. “I’m pretty sure the butler there would like to see me run off entirely. Still, it will be interesting to see who all has agreed to this… whatever this is.”
Lash watches the fourth contestant enter and finds tensions he didn’t know he had being relieved. This one, at least, seemed ready for anything… and it never hurts to have some holy on your side.
“We’ll metJowyn,” Lash says by way of greeting and is about to introduce the others when he’s hit with the comment about the rug. Lash is all laughs and giggles after that for a couple solid minutes.
ast but hopefully by no means least. Cuervo admired the intricate scrollwork on the iron gate before she wandered through – taking in everything there was to see and smell. She also took the time to identify things that were less evident – entrances, exits, the best places to hide, the likely places someone else might be hiding. It was something of an occupational hazard, but it had saved her life more than once.
Once inside the building, her checking was added to by valuing and ageing items of note – were they obvious copies for example. She was almost surprised, therefore, when the manservant spoke. She fished out her invitation and made a mental note that this property was the real deal – she knew opulence when she saw it.
She takes the remaining seat – already suspecting she was the last to arrive (as she’d deliberately been slightly late). It was never good form to be first to make an entrance when the intentions of the host would be made clear. Even traps can be luxurious to the unwary.
Taking in the room first and her companions second, Cuervo smiled weakly before standing again.
“Well met. I am Cuervo. Cuervo Gavran.” She offered a short bow. If she were surprised by the composition of the group, she hid it well. “I’m a bit of a skill monkey and if we need to get into somewhere we shouldn’t, then I’m your girl.”Her thin smile broadened at this comment.
Norill - The butler gives you a warm smile and says, "Well said sir, well said! Lady Elara has an eye for people and a knack for bringing out the best in them." He turns and heads back to the foyer. He puts his nose in the air as he passes Lash and says, "However well-hidden it might be."
Jowyn - The well groomed man gasps at the sight of you and says, "The faithful of Lathander are most welcome! I find Lathander the most relatable of Gods. We all just need a little light in our lives to clear away the darkness. That's what I tell the poor souls who come to partake at the soup kitchens every first day of the month. Yes, I just love to offer my time and service to our Morning Lord." The man prattles on as he escorts you though the house to the hallway where other adventurers are waiting. The butler makes a fumbling attempt at the sign of Lathander, using the wrong hand and says, "The way is open, when the morning beauty reigns. Amen." Butchering the well-known psalm before returning to the foyer.
Cuervo - The butler escorts you though the foyer along the same path as the others, noticing the attention you're paying the surroundings he says, "Lady Elara's wealth is impressive, no? This is but a fraction of it. Yes, the treasures that lie in the vault below would make any dwarven gem monger green with envy." Chuckling at himself, he quickly stops and adds, "Not that I'm prejudiced or anything so base! Ah, here we are." You're left with the rest of the adventurers in the hallway as the butler returns to the foyer.
All - No more adventurers arrive to join you though the butler seems to find some excuse to check in on you every few minutes, "Shouldn't be much longer! I do apologize on behalf of the good lady, a caller showed up just before her intended meeting time with you all, most urgent I'm afraid." The man leaves again, giving you all a chance to interact a bit before your meeting with the good Lady Elara.
Kalhala raises an eyebrow, "cow shite..?" takes him a beat and he starts laughing as well. "Grace and patience? ha, I've been asking for that my entire life, I don't expect to find it anymore, but hey! At least we're in this beautiful place. I sure hope they feed us, I'm sure it would amazing." He starts drooling at the thought of it.
He looks at Cuervo, "Well, according to a lot of people, I'm in places I shouldn't be, so it'll be good to have you around." and he nods decisively at this. "Who do you all think the Lady of the house is meeting with as we wait? Or do you think this is just what rich people do, part of their entertainment, call people here and see how long they can make them wait?"
((Forgot to mention earlier but yes, Smudge the feline familiar will indeed keep exploring. Stealth: 5+4 for a 9 total...))
Lash continues shuffling and reshuffling the cards, occasionally doing dramatic fans and arcs and such but mostly just passing the time. He will close his eyes from time to time and pause the shuffle to check in on Smudge's progress but he mostly trusts the cat to report back if they find anything interesting.
Lash - Smudge finishes exploring the hallway and heads toward the foyer, tail in the air they pad silently across the floor. The butler crosses the large open space at a brisk pace, stopping suddenly at a small table and adjusting slightly a statuette before continuing to a door in the opposite wall. He reaches for the handle, then stops, muttering to himself and turning around unexpectedly. The butler's eyes go wide, and he shrieks as he sees Smudge, "You filthy little creature! How did you get in here!?" Smudge sees the man's hands move as he speaks the words necessary to cast a spell. An ethereal gloved hand appears next to Smudge and attempts to snatch them by the scruff of their neck. Smudge dodges the hand with a hiss and darts away. What would you like them to do now?
"I suppose it's possible something actually came up. Emergencies do happen..." Lash says in response to Kalhala. "Buuuuut.... I think it is more about power than entertainment. Trying to show how busy and important you are. Thus showing those you make wait how not they are because they do wait. Imagine if we all just got up and left, eh?"
Lash is then momentarily distracted... "No need to cause trouble," Lash mentally tells Smudge and directs them to just get out of sight. Once they are pretty sure the cat is hidden, at least for a moment, Lash will dismiss his familiar back to their pocket dimension. Best not to risk the furball in case they are needed later.
"That butler, huh?" Lash says to the others, making small talk. "Imagine it, being some kind of wizard or something and still having to be someone's butler. That must grate..."
All - You hear the butler shouting at someone in the foyer, "...don't find the mangy thing, don't bother coming to tell me! Turn in your uniform and leave..." The rest is lost as a nearby door opens and shouting from within drowns out the shouting in the foyer. An older Gnome man stops in the doorway with his back to you all, yelling at someone within, "...ridiculous! This is my reputation at stake Elara! I would be ruined if this got out! I do not see why you won't let me handle this!" A much calmer, woman's voice answers from within the room, "I have given you all the time I can spare Theroc. You have had three days to recover the Emberheart Amulet and no leads. For the safety of the city, I must act. Surely you-" Theroc scoffs and waves a hand dismissively, "Safety of the city? Spare me." Theroc gestures to an expensive looking tapestry to his right, "You Emberstones care only for your riches." The man finally notices you all watching the drama unfold and seems unperturbed, if anything, emboldened, "And don't forget..." He gives the as yet unseen Elara a self-satisfied smirk as he says, "I know just how your family attained their riches Elara. It'd be a shame if that little bit of family history made the rounds at the next charitable function, eh?" Theroc stomps away, shoulder checking a pedestal as he goes, sending a vase to the ground where it shatters. The butler comes running into the hallway, his face a mask of fury, his eyes bulging and searching you all for signs of guilt. He then has to press himself against the wall as Theroc stomps by in a huff. After Theroc passes and disappears into the foyer, the butler turns back to you all with a venomous glare. He opens his mouth to speak, but bites back the words when Lady Elara appears in the doorway. She is a dark skinned Dawrven woman wearing a dark blue dress and spectacles. Her head is shaved, and she wears large golden hoop earrings. "Petir, please see that Mr. Lankcroft damages no more of my belongings on his way out." She then turns to you all and smiles warmly, "Thank you all for coming. I apologize for the delay and the spectacle." She steps to the side and motions inside the room, "Please, join me. We have much to-" Petir clears his throat and says, "My Lady, if you would please allow me a moment of your time." He gives a pointed glance at Lash before continuing, "There are some things I'd like to discuss with you before your meeting. I'm afraid-" Lady Elara turns to Petir and cocks her head slightly. Petir visibly deflates and stammers as her hands clasp in front of her. Lady Elara lets Petir squirm for a moment, then with a raised eyebrow she says, "Petir, I asked you to make sure Mr. Lankcroft leaves without breaking anything else." Petir nods vigorously, "Yes ma'am, right away." and very nearly falls on his arse when he slips on a bit of broken vase as he backs out of the hallway. Lady Elara turns to you all, offering another smile before heading into the room.
Lash throws the butler a wink, clearly enjoying the snob's unease, but otherwise stays silent.
Lasciel Argent stands when Lady Elara walks into the room and gives her a bit of a bow of respect. Otherwise he remains silent and stoic, awaiting for their hostess to direct the proceedings.
Jowyn watches the scene unfold in disciplined silence. When the vase shatters, her eyes stay on Theroc until he is out of sight. As the party begins to follow Lady Elara, she gathers up the shattered vase pieces and casts 'Mending' again and again until the vase is whole. She sets it on its pedestal, nods to herself, and follows the others.
Kalhala stands back and watches Jowyn work, his mouth open slightly as he is mesmerized by her meticulousness. He barely breathes as he watches her fix the vase and become whole again. After she sets it on the pedestal, he walks over, picks it up very gently and looks it over. "It's.. it's like it never happened!." he quickly sets it down before he drops it and looks to Jowyn, "I need you to stick by me cause uh, things tend to break when I'm around, especially indoors. That was amazing." And he follows the rest into where Lady Elara points them, now more fixated on mending then what they were actually here to do.
"Got to keep these rugs clean, ya know,"Jowyn nudges Kalhala cordially. "Tell you what, big fella: when things need breaking, I'll help you break; when things need mending, you'll help me mend, yeah?"She gives him a grin and continues to follow the Lady of Emberstone.
All - As you step into Lady Elara's private study, you are transported to a realm of quiet contemplation and intellectual pursuits. The study is a sanctuary of knowledge, adorned with curated tomes, intricate scrolls, and artifacts that reflect Lady Elara's passion for history, culture, and arcane mysteries. The study's defining feature is its extensive collection of books that line shelves from floor to ceiling. Leather-bound tomes, ancient scrolls, and meticulously annotated manuscripts share space with beautifully illustrated volumes. The smell of well-loved parchment fills the air, creating an ambiance of wisdom and curiosity. A large, ornately carved desk takes center stage, its surface covered with a scattering of open books, scrolls, and quills. Comfortable chairs are placed nearby, inviting visitors to engage in thoughtful discussions or quiet reading. A plush reading nook with an overstuffed armchair and a soft, patterned throw provides a cozy space for contemplation. The study's walls are adorned with curiosities from across the realms—a mounted map depicting distant lands, an ornamental dagger of exquisite design, and a collection of mysterious, enchanted trinkets. Each piece is thoughtfully chosen, adding an air of intrigue to the room. A large window bathes the study in natural light during the day, while a crystal chandelier and elegant sconces provide a warm and inviting glow in the evenings. The interplay of light and shadow creates an atmosphere of quiet enchantment, enhancing the allure of the study. Among the scholarly treasures, personal touches reveal Lady Elara's multifaceted interests and experiences. A framed portrait of her family, a pressed flower from a distant journey, a handwritten letter from a fellow scholar holds sentimental value.
Lady Elara motions for you all to sit at your choice of various sumptuous couches, chairs, and stools as she takes a seat at a nearby chair facing you all. When you're seated, Lady Elara begins her tale, "Thank you all again for agreeing to help me. As you might have already overheard, time is of the essence. In short, a powerful magical item was stolen from the Museum of Antiquities and, if not recovered soon, could imperil the entire city, if not the whole of the Sword Coast." Lady Elara stands and retrieves a framed picture from a nearby table, "The item is the Emberheart Amulet." She hands the picture to the nearest of you and you see a woman with similar physical features as Lady Elara, but also some dissimilarities as well. "My great-grand mother wears the amulet in that photo." Around the woman's neck you see the Emberheart Amulet. It consists of a roughly pear sized gemstone in an ornate golden setting. The gemstone is veined with darker striations that resemble blood vessels and, along with its size and shape, does indeed resemble a heart. Lady Elara takes the picture back and puts it back in its place. Her gaze lingers on it briefly before continuing, "That picture was taken before the amulet became a prison for a demon." She lets the weight of those words settle before continuing, "Whoever stole the amulet is at risk of becoming possessed and eventually, a host to the demon. It took scores of mighty warriors and the loss of many lives to imprison it the first time. It has had centuries to learn from its mistakes." Lady Elara stands slightly, smoothing wrinkles in her dress before continuing, "The amulet was on loan to the Museum of Antiquities from my private collection. The museum Director, with whom I was meeting prior to meeting you all, assured me that all the necessary precautions would be taken to ensure its safety. Obviously, they were not. I need you all to investigate the museum, find whoever stole the amulet, and return it to me as quickly as possible. Any questions?"
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All - Arriving at Lady Elara's manor in the North Ward, you are greeted by a large wrought iron gate with intricate scrollwork. The gate is open, framing a stone path that leads through a lush garden toward the grand entranceway of the manor. The gardens are a treat to the senses; vibrant flowers offering pleasant scents, neatly trimmed hedges of various interesting shapes and sizes, and the sounds of water flowing playfully over rocks and under a small wooden bridge nearby. Ascending a few stone steps brings you to the spacious entryway, which is dominated by two large wooden doors with narrow windows on either side. The instant your foot steps onto the entryway, the door on the right opens and you are greeted by an older gentleman in butler's attire. He appears to be human with salt and pepper hair and a matching goatee. "Welcome, welcome!" He says with a smile, his blue eyes twinkling, "May I see your invitation?" He accepts the offered piece of parchment and inspects it briefly before handing it back to you. The butler steps aside and gestures for you to enter, "Thank you for agreeing to help Lady Elara in this- Oh, one moment please." You see the man eyeing your boots with a frown before his hands perform a serious of quick movements and you hear him mutter something arcane under his breath. Your boots are suddenly suffused with a soft blue glow that leaves them spotless when it fades. "There, much better. Lady Elara's rugs are Calishite mind you, very expensive!" The butler leads you through an opulent foyer into a hallway where you find a few empty chairs next to a curtained window. "Lady Elara is visiting with a prior caller at the moment, please have a seat." He gestures toward one of the chairs with a smile and you see him glance out the window, "Oh, it seems another is arriving. Please, make yourself comfortable, Lady Elara shouldn't be very much longer." The butler backs out of the hallway with another smile and you hear his footsteps echoing on the marble floor as he heads back toward the front door.
Please describe your character and their reactions to the scene/each other. You will arrive in the order that you post.
Lasciel Argent leisurely strolls through the North Ward and to Lady Elara's manor. This typically wasn't his beat when he was in the City Guard but eventually you saw the whole city if you lasted long enough. As such the rich opulence of the neighborhood didn't shock him, though he was a bit envious. His pace slowed, if anything, once he walked onto the grounds themselves. He took his time studying the surroundings. He wasn't sure entirely what this job was going to entail so knowing the lay of the land seemed wise. Besides, the place was beautiful to look at.
"I'm Lasciel Argent recommended here by Force Grey," Lash offers as he pulls the parchment out of a scroll holder attached to his belt. "The Lady Elara should be expecting me."
Lasciel pauses and eyes the butler suspiciously until he recognizes the look, and the spell. One of those, he thinks to himself. "Is the Lady of the house in the habit of asking for help, inviting guests to provide it and then making them feel dirty and less than?" Lasciel asks with a sneer. "Seems a bit rude." Lasciel could care less about the Lady's carpet and was certainly civilized enough to clean ones boots before entering a manor house such as this. The butler was an ass, pure and simple. Whether by trade or with the intent to show off Lasciel wasn't sure but it would take more than simple prestidigitation to make his haw drop. Still... Lash follows the butler inside.
Lasciel "Lash" Argent was once a distinguished member of the City Guard of Waterdeep and carries himself as such still. His past experiences have shaped him into a man of distinction and humility, adorned in simple yet immaculate attire that speaks of his working-class roots and unwavering pride. Framed by waves of dirty-blonde hair, his face glimmers with an innate charm, a captivating force that can sway the hearts of even the most hardened souls. The sun-kissed hue of his skin bears witness to long days patrolling the bustling streets of Waterdeep, marking him as a man acquainted with the trials and tribulations of life. Standing a bit short of six feet tall Lasciel is not the most physically imposing figure but his eyes are alert and his hand always near his weapon of choice - a whip. This unorthodox instrument of combat serves as both a versatile tool for subduing adversaries and an extension of his charisma, effortlessly striking fear into the hearts of wrongdoers and instilling inspiration among his allies.
"Would you like to clean my ass as well?" Lash asks, moving his cloak aside and giving the butler a half turn so he could see for himself before Lasciel deigned sit upon a precious chair. It was crude and probably uncalled for but Lash had taken a dislike to this butler. Still, the comment probably had the butler convinced he was right to be so persnickety but screw him, Lasciel figured. He was her to deal with Lady Elara, not her snobbish help.
As the butler leaves Lasciel does indeed sit. Upon doing so he summons his familiar from it's pocket dimension - a blue-grey cat with bright green eyes. The feline appears in his hands and Lasciel gives it a smile. "Well hello there, Smudge. Ready to scout around?" After the cat meows in the affirmative Lasciel places them on the ground so they can immediately scamper off and investigate this new place.... That done, Lasciel digs out a set of playing cards and idly shuffles the deck again and again to pass the time.
Kalhala strolls down the walk of Lady Elara's manor, enjoying the fragrant gardens, the beautiful views. A particularly red flower catches his attention and he leans over to give it a big smell. Breathing it in, he smiles, his eyes rolling back a touch and then he chomps it off and eats it, licking his lips when he is through.
Continuing on down the walk he greets the butler with first a startled noise, then a little nod to the man as Kalhala regains his composure. Handing the butler his crumpled up invitation, Kalhala blushes a touch, but then straightens up and tries not to be embarrassed at the state of the invitation. He chuckles a bit at the cleaning of his boots and smiles down at the butler, "Hey, that's a neat trick." Then follows the man to the room, taking in the manor as much as he can, craning his neck to try and see as much as he can.
The minotaur has to duck to enter the room, he is large, even for a minotaur with his sable brown coat and long slightly curled, pierced horns. His long black hair he wears consistently in a manbun between his horns and his black beard hangs in little braids adorned with red beads. He wears brown robes a few shades darker than his coat, with chain mail peaking out on his chest. A longsword is strapped to his belt, but a glaive and shield are also strapped to his pack as he heads in and finds a seat in the room.
Looking over at Lasciel he smiles and gives a half wave, then realizes they are really the only two in the room and does not need to wave. "Eh hem, hello there, my name is Kalhala. Did you get an invitation as well?"
Lash - Your insolent remarks cause a remarkable transformation of the butler's countenance, his face reddening and mouth puckering in such a way that it reminds you of a cat's backside. He practically spits false pleasantries at you before stomping off and muttering loudly about "low-born filth" and "churlish impertinence". Exploring the rest of the hallway, Smudge finds a plush runner under their paws stretching out across the highly polished marble floor. They see archways with gracefully carved columns that break the monotony of the walls, creating an aesthetically pleasing rhythm as they pass. Small alcoves built into the walls hold delicate statuettes, small potted plants, and intricate sculptures, each carefully chosen to enhance the ambiance and offer visual interest. Glistening crystal chandeliers hang at intervals, casting playful patterns of light and shadow on the walls. Each door appears to be made of heavy ironwood and is closed. If you'd like Smudge to explore the foyer, please make a Stealth check for them.
Kalhala - The butler's eyes widen at the sight of you but he quickly regains his composure and says, "Welcome to Lady Elara's estate. I see you are already enjoying the good lady's gardens..." As he eyes the pollen around your muzzle and bits of flower petal in your beard. The same neat trick is performed on your face, and you hear mutterings of "award winning amaryllises, not fodder for cattle" as you are led through an impressive foyer. Directly ahead, a sweeping grand staircase ascends gracefully to the upper levels of the manor. The balustrades are adorned with ornate carvings and delicate ironwork, while a richly woven carpet with a pattern of intricate scrolls guides your gaze upward. The walls of the foyer are adorned with gilded frames holding exquisite oil paintings that depict landscapes, portraits, and scenes of historical significance. The artistry and attention to detail in each piece evoke a sense of culture and sophistication. Crystal vases and porcelain urns housing fresh-cut flowers are tastefully placed throughout the foyer, infusing the air with a delicate fragrance and adding a touch of natural beauty to the opulent setting. The butler leads you to a hallway where another man is already waiting and gives you a quick polite smile before returning to the foyer.
You see a hooded human walk in with a weathered brown and green cloak, leather armor underneath, two swords and a bow on his back. He lowers the hood and you see this human also has some elf blood by his pointy ears. HIs eyes have a deepness to them as he surveys the room and each person there in; each no more than the other. You get the sense he is analyzing you in some way but not to a point where it would be considered discourteous.
"Pardon my late arrival. Here is my invitation." As he hands the document to the butler. he looks around at each person and drawing upon his high-elf blood says "My name is Norill and I presume we all will be working together, so let us all grant each other grace and patients as I would believe that each of us brings a strength to this endeavor." He takes an empty seat.
D&D since 1984
"By the Morninglord…" Jowyn whispers in awe as she walks reverently down the path. Her eyes drink in the garden. After eight years of wilderness warfare, she thought beauty was out in the untamed country. Even the gardens at the Dawn Cathedral were a poor facsimile compared to the hills of wildflowers, groves of candlemoss, and more. But this? This was a garden worthy of Lathander himself. Is that wrong to believe? Maybe. Jowyn is devoted to her god, but these new abilities make her see things in a new light. Even as she admires the well trimmed hedges, she imagines other hedges, far away, full of thorns and corpses.
"My name is Jowyn Alderbark. On behalf of the Dawnbringers of Our Morninglord, I am here to help," she says, producing the neatly folded invitation to the butler.
At the prestidigitation, she grins at the man, but refrains from asking what a 'cow shite' rug is. Probably impolite to ask. Instead she follows the man inside to be seated with the other impressive guests.
Jowyn is dressed in fresh gear. The Church of Lathander apparently wanted their representative to look the part, despite admiring her years of tromping through wilderness. She wears a hauberk of polished mail beneath the vestments of a Dawnbringer, with the 'path towards the rising sun' emblazoned in gold across the crimson cloth. From her belt hangs a mace, from her back hangs a shield and backpack, and in her off hand she holds a helm that bears the sigils of her order. The only sign of her time abroad is a stained strip of an old banner that ornaments her belt.
Her hair is a ruddy color and looks rebellious against being tightly braided by acolytes. She has minor scars around her face that may be expected from a long campaigner. She isn't particularly beautiful, but she carries herself with the grace reserved for those who have met with peril and faced it with courage.
"Well met," she says courteously to the other three. "My name is Jowyn. I'm a Dawnbringer." She looks at the luxurious rugs. She grins. "So… this is a cow shite rug?"
Lash does a bit of a double take at the entrance of the Minotaur but attempts to cover it well. “Oh, hey!” Lash says brightly and standing to greet the newcomer.
“Lasciel Argent, call me Lash,” he says, reaching out to shake Kalhala’s hand. “Indeed, I imagine quite a few got invitations. It should be interesting to see who actually accepts them.. “
Before Lash and Kalhala can get too deep into small talk another person enters. Lasciel greets this new one, Norill, with a handshake as well and then introduces Kalhil.
“I’m not sure we got the job just yet,” Lash advises with a bit of a grin. “I’m pretty sure the butler there would like to see me run off entirely. Still, it will be interesting to see who all has agreed to this… whatever this is.”
Lash watches the fourth contestant enter and finds tensions he didn’t know he had being relieved. This one, at least, seemed ready for anything… and it never hurts to have some holy on your side.
“We’ll metJowyn,” Lash says by way of greeting and is about to introduce the others when he’s hit with the comment about the rug. Lash is all laughs and giggles after that for a couple solid minutes.
ast but hopefully by no means least. Cuervo admired the intricate scrollwork on the iron gate before she wandered through – taking in everything there was to see and smell. She also took the time to identify things that were less evident – entrances, exits, the best places to hide, the likely places someone else might be hiding. It was something of an occupational hazard, but it had saved her life more than once.
Once inside the building, her checking was added to by valuing and ageing items of note – were they obvious copies for example. She was almost surprised, therefore, when the manservant spoke. She fished out her invitation and made a mental note that this property was the real deal – she knew opulence when she saw it.
She takes the remaining seat – already suspecting she was the last to arrive (as she’d deliberately been slightly late). It was never good form to be first to make an entrance when the intentions of the host would be made clear. Even traps can be luxurious to the unwary.
Taking in the room first and her companions second, Cuervo smiled weakly before standing again.
“Well met. I am Cuervo. Cuervo Gavran.” She offered a short bow. If she were surprised by the composition of the group, she hid it well. “I’m a bit of a skill monkey and if we need to get into somewhere we shouldn’t, then I’m your girl.” Her thin smile broadened at this comment.
Norill - The butler gives you a warm smile and says, "Well said sir, well said! Lady Elara has an eye for people and a knack for bringing out the best in them." He turns and heads back to the foyer. He puts his nose in the air as he passes Lash and says, "However well-hidden it might be."
Jowyn - The well groomed man gasps at the sight of you and says, "The faithful of Lathander are most welcome! I find Lathander the most relatable of Gods. We all just need a little light in our lives to clear away the darkness. That's what I tell the poor souls who come to partake at the soup kitchens every first day of the month. Yes, I just love to offer my time and service to our Morning Lord." The man prattles on as he escorts you though the house to the hallway where other adventurers are waiting. The butler makes a fumbling attempt at the sign of Lathander, using the wrong hand and says, "The way is open, when the morning beauty reigns. Amen." Butchering the well-known psalm before returning to the foyer.
Cuervo - The butler escorts you though the foyer along the same path as the others, noticing the attention you're paying the surroundings he says, "Lady Elara's wealth is impressive, no? This is but a fraction of it. Yes, the treasures that lie in the vault below would make any dwarven gem monger green with envy." Chuckling at himself, he quickly stops and adds, "Not that I'm prejudiced or anything so base! Ah, here we are." You're left with the rest of the adventurers in the hallway as the butler returns to the foyer.
All - No more adventurers arrive to join you though the butler seems to find some excuse to check in on you every few minutes, "Shouldn't be much longer! I do apologize on behalf of the good lady, a caller showed up just before her intended meeting time with you all, most urgent I'm afraid." The man leaves again, giving you all a chance to interact a bit before your meeting with the good Lady Elara.
Kalhala raises an eyebrow, "cow shite..?" takes him a beat and he starts laughing as well. "Grace and patience? ha, I've been asking for that my entire life, I don't expect to find it anymore, but hey! At least we're in this beautiful place. I sure hope they feed us, I'm sure it would amazing." He starts drooling at the thought of it.
He looks at Cuervo, "Well, according to a lot of people, I'm in places I shouldn't be, so it'll be good to have you around." and he nods decisively at this. "Who do you all think the Lady of the house is meeting with as we wait? Or do you think this is just what rich people do, part of their entertainment, call people here and see how long they can make them wait?"
((Forgot to mention earlier but yes, Smudge the feline familiar will indeed keep exploring. Stealth: 5+4 for a 9 total...))
Lash continues shuffling and reshuffling the cards, occasionally doing dramatic fans and arcs and such but mostly just passing the time. He will close his eyes from time to time and pause the shuffle to check in on Smudge's progress but he mostly trusts the cat to report back if they find anything interesting.
Lash - Smudge finishes exploring the hallway and heads toward the foyer, tail in the air they pad silently across the floor. The butler crosses the large open space at a brisk pace, stopping suddenly at a small table and adjusting slightly a statuette before continuing to a door in the opposite wall. He reaches for the handle, then stops, muttering to himself and turning around unexpectedly. The butler's eyes go wide, and he shrieks as he sees Smudge, "You filthy little creature! How did you get in here!?" Smudge sees the man's hands move as he speaks the words necessary to cast a spell. An ethereal gloved hand appears next to Smudge and attempts to snatch them by the scruff of their neck. Smudge dodges the hand with a hiss and darts away. What would you like them to do now?
"I suppose it's possible something actually came up. Emergencies do happen..." Lash says in response to Kalhala. "Buuuuut.... I think it is more about power than entertainment. Trying to show how busy and important you are. Thus showing those you make wait how not they are because they do wait. Imagine if we all just got up and left, eh?"
Lash is then momentarily distracted... "No need to cause trouble," Lash mentally tells Smudge and directs them to just get out of sight. Once they are pretty sure the cat is hidden, at least for a moment, Lash will dismiss his familiar back to their pocket dimension. Best not to risk the furball in case they are needed later.
"That butler, huh?" Lash says to the others, making small talk. "Imagine it, being some kind of wizard or something and still having to be someone's butler. That must grate..."
All - You hear the butler shouting at someone in the foyer, "...don't find the mangy thing, don't bother coming to tell me! Turn in your uniform and leave..." The rest is lost as a nearby door opens and shouting from within drowns out the shouting in the foyer. An older Gnome man stops in the doorway with his back to you all, yelling at someone within, "...ridiculous! This is my reputation at stake Elara! I would be ruined if this got out! I do not see why you won't let me handle this!" A much calmer, woman's voice answers from within the room, "I have given you all the time I can spare Theroc. You have had three days to recover the Emberheart Amulet and no leads. For the safety of the city, I must act. Surely you-" Theroc scoffs and waves a hand dismissively, "Safety of the city? Spare me." Theroc gestures to an expensive looking tapestry to his right, "You Emberstones care only for your riches." The man finally notices you all watching the drama unfold and seems unperturbed, if anything, emboldened, "And don't forget..." He gives the as yet unseen Elara a self-satisfied smirk as he says, "I know just how your family attained their riches Elara. It'd be a shame if that little bit of family history made the rounds at the next charitable function, eh?" Theroc stomps away, shoulder checking a pedestal as he goes, sending a vase to the ground where it shatters. The butler comes running into the hallway, his face a mask of fury, his eyes bulging and searching you all for signs of guilt. He then has to press himself against the wall as Theroc stomps by in a huff. After Theroc passes and disappears into the foyer, the butler turns back to you all with a venomous glare. He opens his mouth to speak, but bites back the words when Lady Elara appears in the doorway. She is a dark skinned Dawrven woman wearing a dark blue dress and spectacles. Her head is shaved, and she wears large golden hoop earrings. "Petir, please see that Mr. Lankcroft damages no more of my belongings on his way out." She then turns to you all and smiles warmly, "Thank you all for coming. I apologize for the delay and the spectacle." She steps to the side and motions inside the room, "Please, join me. We have much to-" Petir clears his throat and says, "My Lady, if you would please allow me a moment of your time." He gives a pointed glance at Lash before continuing, "There are some things I'd like to discuss with you before your meeting. I'm afraid-" Lady Elara turns to Petir and cocks her head slightly. Petir visibly deflates and stammers as her hands clasp in front of her. Lady Elara lets Petir squirm for a moment, then with a raised eyebrow she says, "Petir, I asked you to make sure Mr. Lankcroft leaves without breaking anything else." Petir nods vigorously, "Yes ma'am, right away." and very nearly falls on his arse when he slips on a bit of broken vase as he backs out of the hallway. Lady Elara turns to you all, offering another smile before heading into the room.
“ nice to meet you. My name is Norill”
D&D since 1984
Lash throws the butler a wink, clearly enjoying the snob's unease, but otherwise stays silent.
Lasciel Argent stands when Lady Elara walks into the room and gives her a bit of a bow of respect. Otherwise he remains silent and stoic, awaiting for their hostess to direct the proceedings.
Jowyn watches the scene unfold in disciplined silence. When the vase shatters, her eyes stay on Theroc until he is out of sight. As the party begins to follow Lady Elara, she gathers up the shattered vase pieces and casts 'Mending' again and again until the vase is whole. She sets it on its pedestal, nods to herself, and follows the others.
Kalhala stands back and watches Jowyn work, his mouth open slightly as he is mesmerized by her meticulousness. He barely breathes as he watches her fix the vase and become whole again. After she sets it on the pedestal, he walks over, picks it up very gently and looks it over. "It's.. it's like it never happened!." he quickly sets it down before he drops it and looks to Jowyn, "I need you to stick by me cause uh, things tend to break when I'm around, especially indoors. That was amazing." And he follows the rest into where Lady Elara points them, now more fixated on mending then what they were actually here to do.
"Got to keep these rugs clean, ya know," Jowyn nudges Kalhala cordially. "Tell you what, big fella: when things need breaking, I'll help you break; when things need mending, you'll help me mend, yeah?" She gives him a grin and continues to follow the Lady of Emberstone.
All - As you step into Lady Elara's private study, you are transported to a realm of quiet contemplation and intellectual pursuits. The study is a sanctuary of knowledge, adorned with curated tomes, intricate scrolls, and artifacts that reflect Lady Elara's passion for history, culture, and arcane mysteries. The study's defining feature is its extensive collection of books that line shelves from floor to ceiling. Leather-bound tomes, ancient scrolls, and meticulously annotated manuscripts share space with beautifully illustrated volumes. The smell of well-loved parchment fills the air, creating an ambiance of wisdom and curiosity. A large, ornately carved desk takes center stage, its surface covered with a scattering of open books, scrolls, and quills. Comfortable chairs are placed nearby, inviting visitors to engage in thoughtful discussions or quiet reading. A plush reading nook with an overstuffed armchair and a soft, patterned throw provides a cozy space for contemplation. The study's walls are adorned with curiosities from across the realms—a mounted map depicting distant lands, an ornamental dagger of exquisite design, and a collection of mysterious, enchanted trinkets. Each piece is thoughtfully chosen, adding an air of intrigue to the room. A large window bathes the study in natural light during the day, while a crystal chandelier and elegant sconces provide a warm and inviting glow in the evenings. The interplay of light and shadow creates an atmosphere of quiet enchantment, enhancing the allure of the study. Among the scholarly treasures, personal touches reveal Lady Elara's multifaceted interests and experiences. A framed portrait of her family, a pressed flower from a distant journey, a handwritten letter from a fellow scholar holds sentimental value.
Lady Elara motions for you all to sit at your choice of various sumptuous couches, chairs, and stools as she takes a seat at a nearby chair facing you all. When you're seated, Lady Elara begins her tale, "Thank you all again for agreeing to help me. As you might have already overheard, time is of the essence. In short, a powerful magical item was stolen from the Museum of Antiquities and, if not recovered soon, could imperil the entire city, if not the whole of the Sword Coast." Lady Elara stands and retrieves a framed picture from a nearby table, "The item is the Emberheart Amulet." She hands the picture to the nearest of you and you see a woman with similar physical features as Lady Elara, but also some dissimilarities as well. "My great-grand mother wears the amulet in that photo." Around the woman's neck you see the Emberheart Amulet. It consists of a roughly pear sized gemstone in an ornate golden setting. The gemstone is veined with darker striations that resemble blood vessels and, along with its size and shape, does indeed resemble a heart. Lady Elara takes the picture back and puts it back in its place. Her gaze lingers on it briefly before continuing, "That picture was taken before the amulet became a prison for a demon." She lets the weight of those words settle before continuing, "Whoever stole the amulet is at risk of becoming possessed and eventually, a host to the demon. It took scores of mighty warriors and the loss of many lives to imprison it the first time. It has had centuries to learn from its mistakes." Lady Elara stands slightly, smoothing wrinkles in her dress before continuing, "The amulet was on loan to the Museum of Antiquities from my private collection. The museum Director, with whom I was meeting prior to meeting you all, assured me that all the necessary precautions would be taken to ensure its safety. Obviously, they were not. I need you all to investigate the museum, find whoever stole the amulet, and return it to me as quickly as possible. Any questions?"