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Roleplay - A Masked Ball in Padova

... 16
AuthorMessage
Captain
Mar 09, 2011
709
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
[this sequence begins slightly before Claire tosses the egg...]

The Doge's threat was most potent; the girls nodded assent as they knew they were expected to. Anne caught Chrissy's eye, but could not convey any message, not under the scrutiny she and Lizzy experienced now. The Doge nodded to a line of footmen, and four genuine Armada soldiers came forward. "These soldiers will escort you below. Do not cry. Do not make a fuss." Then his harsh commanding tone softened a trifle. "Do as you are bid, and you will not be harmed. But consider yourselves under arrest."

Anne managed to find her voice. "Why?" she asked softly.

"Your father is a traitor," the Doge stated grimly. "Since he evades justice by hiding, I intend to bring him out. You had better hope he loves you enough to do so. I could arrest you openly," he lied smoothly, "but I have no wish to distress my guests. Obey me, and you will be decently treated. Simply walk out of the ballroom through that door," he indicated it with a nod, "and your escort will take you on farther. After the ball I will check on you to ensure you are not uncomfortable in your prison cells."

In the ballroom, a muted Poomph! and a burst of light and color behind the girls caught the Doge's attention. Squeaks of shock turned into a hum of excited conversation, laughter, and some scattered applause. Nicolo frowned. This seemed to have been some sort of entertainment that had not been cleared with him first. Well, he would have words with his Master of Ceremonies directly once he had dealt with these, the traitor's children.

Briefly unobserved, Anne and Lizzy exchanged a glance. It would not be wise to do anything here, not with trigger-happy Armada soldiers aiming at their friends. Best to be obedient and make a bid for freedom away from the ballroom. As the Doge returned his gaze to them, the girls meekly lowered their heads, and taking hands, walked towards their intended captivity.

Nicolo Foscari ruthlessly suppressed the pang in his own heart, remembering Violetta's rapt face at the opera and Mariella's glowing joy dancing the Volta and seeing now their subdued, cowed spirits. It is for the good of Padova, he told himself once again.

Under the subdued exterior, both girls were thinking quickly. Anne began to lay out plans based on their briefing of what was known about the catacombs and dungeons under the Doge's palace. Yet as she began assessing their situation more fully, a strange dissonance among the musicians suddenly caught her ear, a flute playing a counter melody out of tune. After a moment, however, she realized that the melody was not out of tune. Not at all. The melody filled her mind, sending her thoughts flying. Holding Lizzy's hand, Anne walked on, but not really remembering why she was doing so.
OOC: Lizzy, too, is a lover of music, though not as much as Anne, or someone who actually plays an instrument themselves. I expect she'll have a different reaction to the spell. Also, it's completely fine with me if this sequence is discarded if it doesn't fit into the story, though I'd like to know what you think of it all the same. :) Also, btw, guess what? *giggles and wiggles with excitement* my fan art was posted! Woot! *does victory dance*
~
Before Lizzy marched off, she stood in her place for a moment, and looked the Doge in the eye. She spoke the absolute truth, and there was nothing dodgy about her statement. "I enjoyed myself this evening." She said calmly, as a rare moment of bravery washed over her. She closed her eyes and bowed her head in respect. As she remembered the evening, especially dancing, her face glowed like the child that she really was. When she came out of her memories and looked back to the Doge, she smiled. "It's been a long time since I've had so much fun. You really did host a fantastic ball. Thank you."

With this final statement, still glowing with the happiness of memory, she laced her fingers with Anne's, and walked off with her friend. We'll make it out of this. She projected the thought to Anne, even though she knew that her friend probably wouldn't receive the message. Immediately afterwards, a beautiful melody wove its way to her and into her brain. It was so amazing, Lizzy wished that she could just loose herself to the music. Just as this thought occurred to her, an extreme headache blossomed, and she groaned audibly. She shook her head and chills ran down her arms. Lizzy looked down at her feet as she walked off, and, despite the sudden headache, felt as if she had won in regards to the Doge. He made a formidable opponent, and she greatly respected how cunning and determined he was. Even if he was the enemy.

"Ugh, I hate headaches." The blonde murmured with a cringe.
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
[this sequence begins slightly before Claire tosses the egg...]

The Doge's threat was most potent; the girls nodded assent as they knew they were expected to. Anne caught Chrissy's eye, but could not convey any message, not under the scrutiny she and Lizzy experienced now. The Doge nodded to a line of footmen, and four genuine Armada soldiers came forward. "These soldiers will escort you below. Do not cry. Do not make a fuss." Then his harsh commanding tone softened a trifle. "Do as you are bid, and you will not be harmed. But consider yourselves under arrest."

Anne managed to find her voice. "Why?" she asked softly.

"Your father is a traitor," the Doge stated grimly. "Since he evades justice by hiding, I intend to bring him out. You had better hope he loves you enough to do so. I could arrest you openly," he lied smoothly, "but I have no wish to distress my guests. Obey me, and you will be decently treated. Simply walk out of the ballroom through that door," he indicated it with a nod, "and your escort will take you on farther. After the ball I will check on you to ensure you are not uncomfortable in your prison cells."

In the ballroom, a muted Poomph! and a burst of light and color behind the girls caught the Doge's attention. Squeaks of shock turned into a hum of excited conversation, laughter, and some scattered applause. Nicolo frowned. This seemed to have been some sort of entertainment that had not been cleared with him first. Well, he would have words with his Master of Ceremonies directly once he had dealt with these, the traitor's children.

Briefly unobserved, Anne and Lizzy exchanged a glance. It would not be wise to do anything here, not with trigger-happy Armada soldiers aiming at their friends. Best to be obedient and make a bid for freedom away from the ballroom. As the Doge returned his gaze to them, the girls meekly lowered their heads, and taking hands, walked towards their intended captivity.

Nicolo Foscari ruthlessly suppressed the pang in his own heart, remembering Violetta's rapt face at the opera and Mariella's glowing joy dancing the Volta and seeing now their subdued, cowed spirits. It is for the good of Padova, he told himself once again.

Under the subdued exterior, both girls were thinking quickly. Anne began to lay out plans based on their briefing of what was known about the catacombs and dungeons under the Doge's palace. Yet as she began assessing their situation more fully, a strange dissonance among the musicians suddenly caught her ear, a flute playing a counter melody out of tune. After a moment, however, she realized that the melody was not out of tune. Not at all. The melody filled her mind, sending her thoughts flying. Holding Lizzy's hand, Anne walked on, but not really remembering why she was doing so.
Chrissy opened her eyes & looked up at Omar expecting him to be revived & realized with horror that her protection was not enough. He only blinked & slightly moved his head. She looked at the girls and they slowly turned and started walking away with the dodge and she saw to her horror, Armada soldiers coming to escort them. She knew that some powerful witchcraft was going on and she was too far away to counter it. She knew that the best way to counter this musical spell was with Omar's help but seeing her friends being led of by the Armada was breaking her heart. She gave a push with all her might and nothing changed. She had to decide. The spell was having the most widespread affect and her friends were well armed and they did have a plan if they were taken. As much as it tore her heart in two she took her eyes off of her friends and focused totally on Omar. There was a slight increase in movement but nothing else. Her protection had never failed her with her crew but she was always right there with them. Her brain snapped at the thought "right there with them". "Of COURSE!"she thought, I need to get closer. She had to get to Omar but there were soldiers up there. She leaned back against the window to think and it dawned on her that it was a WINDOW. A distraction ploy snapped into her head. She was beyond grateful that she has slipped a sparking noise maker that Gracie had invented into her pocket. She opened the window and gave a tweet on a silent whistle she used for her Scarakeet Rascal. After a couple of tries he finally found her as he had been waiting outside in a tree near the front door she had entered in. He swooped in and she gave him the signal for silence and he immediately cut off his welcoming song. She tucked him into a pocket with a handy peek hole for him, which was a familiar way for him to accompany her so he settled right in. The dancers had stopped as some of their partners were starting to dance to the new music and confusion started flowing through the ballroom. Taking advantage of this Chrissy slipped along the wall heading for the stairs. When she was half a room away she saw a well dressed lady dash out of the door she was heading for like the hounds of Aquila were after her and the thought was close. Two armada soldiers dashed out right after her and lowered their guns yet sped after her. Her instinct was to help her but she had to focus on the greater danger. She continued until she got to the staircase of the gallery.
She listened but heard nothing in the confusion. She silently crept up the stairway & peeked into the box. There were two Armada left. One was busy trying to do repairs on the other one. She slipped in behind the box curtain and pulled out Rascal and the sparking noisemaker and placed it into Rascal's talons. He had done this before and knew what to do. She showed him the way back down the stairs and knew he would find his way back to the window. She wound the device and gave it a two second delay....
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
Chrissy used the curtain for cover and tossed Rascal back down the stairs. He glided down and about half way the noisemaker went off sounding surprisingly like a spark shooter. The Soldier in the box started at the sound and ran to investigate. Rascal had a good enough lead to stay out of his sight but not his hearing. Chrissy used her hidden sword to quickly dispatch the wounded clockwork and slipped into the box to reach Omar. Her Protection swelled as it felt the negative effects of the spell. She placed her hand on his shoulder and she felt something snap in her protection as it completely surrounded him. The negative energy she had been repelling just slid away. Omar suddenly sat up and turned to look at her in surprise.
Commodore
Sep 20, 2009
989
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 7, 2014 wrote:
[OOC: Ah, you are too clever for me, Scarlet . The really funny thing is that he was intended at first to be just a background character, a decent and honorable member of the Council who yet supported the Armada. I found his name while looking for a suitable name for the Doge -- there was a doge of Venice in the 17th C. named Giovanni Bembo, a war hero who had begun his career volunteering for the Venetian navy at the tender age of 12. This laid the foundation for my Bembo's backstory, and then your invention of Scarlet's mom as 'La Peregrine' strengthened and elaborated the backstory, providing a splendid hook for a plot. That his name provided a 'G' was a happy accident which I fell upon with glee!]

*

'Antonio' readily agreed to keep watch for his sister. Satisfied with her preparations, 'Isabella' entered the north antechamber. Scarlet swiftly checked the room as she entered, looking behind the door first.

No one was yet here. Wax tapers in wall sconces had been lit, but no fire had been lit in the fireplace. However, by the light of the candles Scarlet could see the room boasted a fine writing desk, several leather-backed chairs set comfortably around a small fireplace that boasted a beautifully carved mantle, a long table covered by a rumpled dust cloth, and several well-filled bookcases against the far wall. The walls displayed a number of prints featuring various historical and philosophical subjects. All in all, the room presented the appearance of a comfortable, masculine study.

Scarlet automatically wandered to a bookcase. Well-thumbed volumes filled the case, mostly law and history, but a smattering of some other works. With an eye trained for secrets, Scarlet soon discovered a thin volume hidden behind several large tomes. Her lips twitched in amusement and interest as she saw it was a recent monograph on squid. Evidently Orlando enjoyed the use of this study at times.

She became aware of someone entering the room and closing the door behind them. Scarlet turned towards the newcomer. As she had guessed, he was Duca Giovanni Bembo. He bowed with grave courtesy. Scarlet made a polite curtsey in exchange, sliding her hand into her pocket slit to access a weapon of her own if need be, but for the moment opening her eyes wide with concern, creating the image of simply a bewildered young lady.

His stern gaze showed the pretense to be less than effective. "I thank you for heeding my request for a meeting," he opened politely. Walking to the table, with a swift motion he flicked off the dust cover, revealing a set of matched rapiers. "I hope our conversation does not lead to combat. However, I wish to take due precautions. I would not be so dishonorable to take on an unarmed foe - if indeed you are a foe. I am certain you know how to use such a weapon."

"I sincerely do not want it to come to that. But I do insist on knowing one thing. Why is the daughter of La Peregrine masquerading as Isabella Vinaldi?"
"Why is the daughter of La Peregrine masquerading as Isabella Vinaldi?"

The question hung in the air for a heartbeat as Scarlet thought. An honest answer might lead to a new ally, a lie, and Scarlet might as well pick up one of the rapiers laying on the table in front of her.

She turned away from the swords, smiling calmly at Giovanni and sat down in one of the armchairs near the fireplace.
"You seem to be an 'onest and an 'onerable man Monsieur Bembo. You could 'ave met me 'ere wiz an Armada escort, but you came alone." Scarlet said politely as she removed the peregrine mask.

"Oui, Je suis une fille de La Peregrine. If you know zis, zen you must 'ave met ma mère at sometime. I wonder was zis while she fought for Polaris, or was it after she 'ad switched sides to Marleybone? In ze one case, you could be a possible friend, in ze ozer you no doubt owe a debt, or at least a favour." Scarlet looked shrewidly at Giovanni; watching for any reaction.

"As for ze admirable Isabella Vinaldi -- I received a request from a member of ze Vinaldi family to portray Isabella at tonight's ball." Scarlet finished, still closely watching Giovanni.
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Just Add Bacon on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
OOC: Lizzy, too, is a lover of music, though not as much as Anne, or someone who actually plays an instrument themselves. I expect she'll have a different reaction to the spell. Also, it's completely fine with me if this sequence is discarded if it doesn't fit into the story, though I'd like to know what you think of it all the same. :) Also, btw, guess what? *giggles and wiggles with excitement* my fan art was posted! Woot! *does victory dance*
~
Before Lizzy marched off, she stood in her place for a moment, and looked the Doge in the eye. She spoke the absolute truth, and there was nothing dodgy about her statement. "I enjoyed myself this evening." She said calmly, as a rare moment of bravery washed over her. She closed her eyes and bowed her head in respect. As she remembered the evening, especially dancing, her face glowed like the child that she really was. When she came out of her memories and looked back to the Doge, she smiled. "It's been a long time since I've had so much fun. You really did host a fantastic ball. Thank you."

With this final statement, still glowing with the happiness of memory, she laced her fingers with Anne's, and walked off with her friend. We'll make it out of this. She projected the thought to Anne, even though she knew that her friend probably wouldn't receive the message. Immediately afterwards, a beautiful melody wove its way to her and into her brain. It was so amazing, Lizzy wished that she could just loose herself to the music. Just as this thought occurred to her, an extreme headache blossomed, and she groaned audibly. She shook her head and chills ran down her arms. Lizzy looked down at her feet as she walked off, and, despite the sudden headache, felt as if she had won in regards to the Doge. He made a formidable opponent, and she greatly respected how cunning and determined he was. Even if he was the enemy.

"Ugh, I hate headaches." The blonde murmured with a cringe.
(OOC: Lizzy! Your picture is beautiful! You have expressed such sweetness and personality! Very well done.
And great job heaping coals of guilt on the Doge's head! Well, he deserves it! Excellent sequence; fits beautifully.)

*
Still holding hands in the manner of sisters, Mariella and Violetta were escorted below the surface of Padova into the ancient catacombs. Almost instantly the sounds of the ball were silenced, and the effects of the spell evaporated. Anne's confusion cleared, and Lizzy's headache began to fade.

Anne assessed their surroundings. Upon entering the underground, they seemed to have picked up two more Armada guards, for a total of six. They seemed to be merely Armada regulars, but still an excessive amount of guards for two young girls, surely. Glass globes of chemical lights hung off stone pillars that marked their path downward; otherwise the space around them was dark, with the occasional glimpse of more ancient pillars in the darkness. The sound of their footsteps echoed as if in a vast space, but Anne guessed this was mostly due to the high earthen and stone ceilings, rather than a vast cave. She sensed walls in the darkness not far off, which would be consistent with what their briefing had given them to expect. Certainly the Doge's private cellars and dungeons would not be accessible to the great interconnecting network of catacombs that honeycombed the region directly beneath the city.

When should they make their escape? Certainly before they were locked away in any cells, perhaps chained there... Anne's mind shied away from the image, touching horrible memories she firmly blocked from her mind. If they made their move here they could slip into the darkness very quickly, Anne considered. But she did not like that thick darkness around them; could not shake the notion that more enemies lay in wait unseen.

Unexpectedly, the first two Armada guards called a halt. Now they just stood there, what seemed to be a wide stair landing, surrounded by four pillars of great antiquity, harkening back to ancient Aquilan rule, incongruously beautiful for a stair that led to dungeons. The blue light of a chemical lamp hung from the center of the landing, illuminating two additional Armada soldiers that stood beside the pillars parallel to the stairs. The air was cold here, and the two girls clad in their pretty but impractical ball gowns began to shiver. Their guards paid their discomfort absolutely no heed.

Eight soldiers, Anne thought, frowning. Not good odds at present, even if the darkness turned out to be protective and welcoming instead of holding the danger she fancied. But what did Lizzy think? She gently squeezed Lizzy's hand and sent her a faint questioning look. After a moment, Lizzy's eyes narrowed and slid down a fraction -- not yet.
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Chrissy Th'Blesser on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
Chrissy used the curtain for cover and tossed Rascal back down the stairs. He glided down and about half way the noisemaker went off sounding surprisingly like a spark shooter. The Soldier in the box started at the sound and ran to investigate. Rascal had a good enough lead to stay out of his sight but not his hearing. Chrissy used her hidden sword to quickly dispatch the wounded clockwork and slipped into the box to reach Omar. Her Protection swelled as it felt the negative effects of the spell. She placed her hand on his shoulder and she felt something snap in her protection as it completely surrounded him. The negative energy she had been repelling just slid away. Omar suddenly sat up and turned to look at her in surprise.
The musicians in the box did not seem to notice the presence of the newcomer, Chrissy. Most were sitting idle, their hands relaxed and their instruments silent. Several were playing the melody of the spell, and several more had even instinctively provided harmony. It provided a most eerie scene.

Chrissy peeked out of the box. Several Armada soldiers were still (!) on the landing, but they were not looking towards the musicians, rather aiming their weapons at the room below. Fortunately none had actually discharged their weapons. If they were careful, she and Omar could probably get by those Armada soldiers unseen. Chrissy got a glimpse of the ballroom below and saw some guests that continued to dance in a mindless pattern to the odd tune the musicians provided, others that simply stood, bewildered, and some that looked as if they were trying to continue conversations that were eluding them.

Frankly, it was just weird. But Chrissy now knew that although she had the power to grant protection against the insidious spell that had affected them all, she couldn't protect everyone. The only way to do that would be to stop whoever was doing this. But how? She could not cast a spell to find the location of another spell. But, perhaps Omar could.
Gunner's Mate
Oct 11, 2012
283
Chrissy Th'Blesser on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
Chrissy used the curtain for cover and tossed Rascal back down the stairs. He glided down and about half way the noisemaker went off sounding surprisingly like a spark shooter. The Soldier in the box started at the sound and ran to investigate. Rascal had a good enough lead to stay out of his sight but not his hearing. Chrissy used her hidden sword to quickly dispatch the wounded clockwork and slipped into the box to reach Omar. Her Protection swelled as it felt the negative effects of the spell. She placed her hand on his shoulder and she felt something snap in her protection as it completely surrounded him. The negative energy she had been repelling just slid away. Omar suddenly sat up and turned to look at her in surprise.
Omar scrambled to his feet, rather shaken. The feeling of having his magic sucked out of him brought terrifying memories back to his mind.
"Thank you!" He exclaimed, his voice thick with relief "That spell wasa real nightmare fer me. So, what... Happened?"
Omar was watching the things that were taking place down below, horrified at the state Maria was in and seeing Anne and Lizzy leaving the ballroom with two of the clockwork abominationse escorting them. His horror quickly tuned to anger when he realized that the melodic hex was still sowing discord throughout the palace.
"How could a person simply leech off the love of music and magical energies without showing even a hint of compassion like this. This has to stop NOW!"
As Omar said this, his elegant costume warped into the robes of a Mooshu disciple and a wide-brimmed hat that shadowed his eyes, causing them to faintly glow a ghostly green hue. A scroll appeared levitating at his waist next to a sack of multiple materials that almost seemed to breath like a living thing.
" hehe, I've been longing to try out Zhong Kui's gift out!" Said the Obeah, his wrath suddenly becomeing glee "This little adventure might be more intriguing than ever! So Chrissy, as you may have guessed, this spell is most likely from Dona Graziella's music book. So, how do we get to finding the source?"
Admiral
Oct 27, 2009
1439
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
(OOC: Lizzy! Your picture is beautiful! You have expressed such sweetness and personality! Very well done.
And great job heaping coals of guilt on the Doge's head! Well, he deserves it! Excellent sequence; fits beautifully.)

*
Still holding hands in the manner of sisters, Mariella and Violetta were escorted below the surface of Padova into the ancient catacombs. Almost instantly the sounds of the ball were silenced, and the effects of the spell evaporated. Anne's confusion cleared, and Lizzy's headache began to fade.

Anne assessed their surroundings. Upon entering the underground, they seemed to have picked up two more Armada guards, for a total of six. They seemed to be merely Armada regulars, but still an excessive amount of guards for two young girls, surely. Glass globes of chemical lights hung off stone pillars that marked their path downward; otherwise the space around them was dark, with the occasional glimpse of more ancient pillars in the darkness. The sound of their footsteps echoed as if in a vast space, but Anne guessed this was mostly due to the high earthen and stone ceilings, rather than a vast cave. She sensed walls in the darkness not far off, which would be consistent with what their briefing had given them to expect. Certainly the Doge's private cellars and dungeons would not be accessible to the great interconnecting network of catacombs that honeycombed the region directly beneath the city.

When should they make their escape? Certainly before they were locked away in any cells, perhaps chained there... Anne's mind shied away from the image, touching horrible memories she firmly blocked from her mind. If they made their move here they could slip into the darkness very quickly, Anne considered. But she did not like that thick darkness around them; could not shake the notion that more enemies lay in wait unseen.

Unexpectedly, the first two Armada guards called a halt. Now they just stood there, what seemed to be a wide stair landing, surrounded by four pillars of great antiquity, harkening back to ancient Aquilan rule, incongruously beautiful for a stair that led to dungeons. The blue light of a chemical lamp hung from the center of the landing, illuminating two additional Armada soldiers that stood beside the pillars parallel to the stairs. The air was cold here, and the two girls clad in their pretty but impractical ball gowns began to shiver. Their guards paid their discomfort absolutely no heed.

Eight soldiers, Anne thought, frowning. Not good odds at present, even if the darkness turned out to be protective and welcoming instead of holding the danger she fancied. But what did Lizzy think? She gently squeezed Lizzy's hand and sent her a faint questioning look. After a moment, Lizzy's eyes narrowed and slid down a fraction -- not yet.
Out of a dark and bad smelling tunnel, a very seedy looking wharf rat leaped, shouting, "I have you now, Kenneth! The bounty is mine!" On seeing the armada soldiers with the girls, he squeeked, "Oh no, the Armada! Sorry, sorry, sorry! I didn't mean it," and ran away.
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
The Undead Obeah on Apr 10, 2014 wrote:
Omar scrambled to his feet, rather shaken. The feeling of having his magic sucked out of him brought terrifying memories back to his mind.
"Thank you!" He exclaimed, his voice thick with relief "That spell wasa real nightmare fer me. So, what... Happened?"
Omar was watching the things that were taking place down below, horrified at the state Maria was in and seeing Anne and Lizzy leaving the ballroom with two of the clockwork abominationse escorting them. His horror quickly tuned to anger when he realized that the melodic hex was still sowing discord throughout the palace.
"How could a person simply leech off the love of music and magical energies without showing even a hint of compassion like this. This has to stop NOW!"
As Omar said this, his elegant costume warped into the robes of a Mooshu disciple and a wide-brimmed hat that shadowed his eyes, causing them to faintly glow a ghostly green hue. A scroll appeared levitating at his waist next to a sack of multiple materials that almost seemed to breath like a living thing.
" hehe, I've been longing to try out Zhong Kui's gift out!" Said the Obeah, his wrath suddenly becomeing glee "This little adventure might be more intriguing than ever! So Chrissy, as you may have guessed, this spell is most likely from Dona Graziella's music book. So, how do we get to finding the source?"
Chrissy looked at Omar in surprise. "Hey I am the rookie here, remember? My guess would be to follow the music unless your bag of floating tricks here has a better way."
Ensign
Nov 29, 2013
21
(OOC: Even though I'm not in this roleplay yet, I'm going to wait until my other roleplay starts going, 'cause I've introduced a new character there.)
Gunner's Mate
May 28, 2013
294
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
Sam, having finished the dance with Laura Rossi, found himself invited to meet a few of her friends. He bowed with his best courtly behavior towards a young, elegant Unicorn by the name of Katerina Pergolesi and her human friends, Alura and Evalina. The crowd swirled around them, people coming and going. Sam, who had begun to feel sophisticated and confident in the company of one girl, now found himself feeling peculiar and awkward in the company of several girls. It didn't help that the conversation turned to matters of fashion, something Sam knew nothing about, even when he wasn't dealing with Valencian culture in particular. Nor did it help feeling he was under scrutiny by the elderly grandmother of Katerina, the Contessa Beatrice, who despite her gracious manners still made him feel like he was an errant schoolboy about to be discovered of wrongdoing.

The bright, playful explosion of the egg proved to be a welcome distraction. At the first instant, Sam felt a surge of alarm which swiftly melted into relief. This was just another entertainment for the ball. Very pretty; much better than the opera, Sam privately thought. He turned to make a light comment to Laura, glad to have a topic of conversation other than fashion.

The words he was going to speak died on his lips. The elderly Unicorn suddenly looked ashen, her eyes closed, and swaying dangerously. Beatrice put a hand to her chest and collapsed just as Sam reached her. Everything else was forgotten as he cushioned her fall. What had happened? Had she had some sort of stroke or heart attack? And curiously, there was a tiny wound just above where her half-gloves ended on her arm. It looked far from dangerous, but still brand new. How had she come by that injury just now?
Sam's quick reflexes enabled him to catch Countess Beatrice before she hit the ground. He eased her body to the floor, then began to check for vital signs. Her breathing was shallow, but regular. Her pallor was pale, nearly white. Her pulse was weak, but steady. Her collapse seemed too severe to be caused by the sudden colorful explosion. Then he noticed a small round puncture mark on her arm just above her left glove, which itself reached nearly to her elbow. A red ring looked to be forming around the wound, usually a sign of...

"Poison." Sam didn't even realize he spoke aloud until he heard gasps from the assembled ladies. He glanced up and saw shock and astonishment on each of the ladies' faces. Laura looked practically ill, Evalina curious, and Alura looked... well it was hard to tell. Unless one was an accomplished actress, they all certainly seemed surprised. He also couldn't spot anyone just standing around paying too much attention to the fallen Countess, to see if their handiwork had worked.

The hall itself was in confusion. Had the 'explosion' been an entertainment, or an attack, or a diversion? For the first time Sam actually wanted to spot his personal spy. But no such luck. No sign of Magdelena or Nightingale / Chrissy either. Up on the dais, the Doge was removing the Vinaldi girls from the scene. Good for him, sensible move on his part.

Sam knew only rudimentary first aid, knowledge of poisons was outside his baliwick. Wait a minute, he had a flask of Yum! Before any of the ladies could volunteer any help, he pulled the flask out and poured a generous swallow past the old Unicorn's lips. It took less than a minute before Sam noticed the Countess' breathing improve slightly, so he recapped and replaced the flask in his scrip.

Breathing his own sigh of relief, he looked up only to spot the rapid approach of two 'Armada' soldiers. Were they real Armada? Or were they just footmen coming over to help? Sam also realized that he had taken off his Lion mask to check over the Countess, and there was no time left to replace it.
Gunner's Mate
Oct 11, 2012
283
Chrissy Th'Blesser on Apr 10, 2014 wrote:
Chrissy looked at Omar in surprise. "Hey I am the rookie here, remember? My guess would be to follow the music unless your bag of floating tricks here has a better way."
"Sorry." Omar chuckled "Just wanted to be polite. Also, that seems to be the only way to find the culprit, though I might know someone who could help us out."
Omar led the way to the stairs bout before he went down, he pointed his quarterstaff at the ruined clockwork. Immediately, the scroll unfurled itself and shot a bolt of energy at the musketeer, lifting it up and throwing it into the column where it became apart of the woodwork.
"No worries." He reassured a startled Chrissy "But we couldn't just leave him there. People would suspect. Ladies first."
After they wound their way to the ballroom, they kept to the wall while Omar searched for "Lord" Fonte. He found him near a frozen Maria, hiding behind the curtains and looking unwell.
"Pst! Hobbes ye there."
"Aye." replied the unicorn sickly
"Can you tell where…"
"I Can't hold this in!" Interrupted the woozy swashbuckler "Stand still Omar!"
Alexander raised his hand, the magic of the music that flowed into him gravitating towards it. He then hurled the collected energy he leeched to stay in control of his body at Omar and Chrissy. The magical energy, however, acted like a Big Juju, strengthening their powers and giving them a minty breath of fresh air (a side affect). As this happened, Chrissy got a good look at Hobbes, seeing that as soon as he hurled the spell, he was totally deprived of any magic energy. The spell then flowed towards him again, but just seemed to be absorbed by the magical vacuum that was Nimble Alexander Hobbes.
"Well," said Omar "You certainly went dramatic there."
"Sorry. But containing all that magic was too much for me"
"Oh. Chrissy, let me explain." Continued Hobbes "I was born into the now deceased Shadowmoor House, a Marleybonian/Valencian family that was known for manipulating the magic of spell casters while being unable to use magic of their own. However, the Armada secretly killed off the family during the Polarian War for false treason. Or so they thought. So Imps, what do you want me to find?"
"The source of this musical spell." Replied the relieved Spirit Hunter "Can you give us a heading?"
"Of course! Give me a moment."
As Hobbes took a deep breath, a floating strand of music was sucked into his aura.
"There." He said, pointing towards the stairwell to the second door "it's coming from the old Seance Room on the second floor (OOC: I'm guessing that since it's an old palace, there might have been a doge intrigued in the occult. There is usually at least one)."
"Where upstairs?"
"Don't know. Your going to have to find it."
"In that case, we should better get started."
As the two went up the stairs, Lord Fonte snickered since he did know where it was. However, He didn't want to make it too easy for them. That and he loves his inside jokes (trust me, he's the only one who finds it funny. Hobbes can have a somewhat twisted sense of Humor).
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Calamity Finch on Apr 10, 2014 wrote:
Out of a dark and bad smelling tunnel, a very seedy looking wharf rat leaped, shouting, "I have you now, Kenneth! The bounty is mine!" On seeing the armada soldiers with the girls, he squeeked, "Oh no, the Armada! Sorry, sorry, sorry! I didn't mean it," and ran away.
OOC: cute, Calamity, but the sewers of Padova don't interact with the catacombs at least under the Doge's palace. I had tried to make that clear indicating that walls were sealing off the area from the network of catacombs under the city, but I guess I didn't do an adequate job, sorry. But you must agree that placing dungeons in an area where anyone with a map of the catacombs could access it would be a bad idea, yes? Never mind cellars filled with food and drink. That's why the walls were built to seal in this section for the Doge's personal use.
Commodore
Feb 29, 2012
892
(Well, my writing skill has considerably faded. So has my art skill. At least, in my eyes. I'm admittedly shy of posting because of this. I can't create beautiful mental images like Anne and Lizzie... People say I can, but I can't. I'm awful at it. Well, guess I better somehow hop into this again.... But how?)
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
CdeWinter on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
"Why is the daughter of La Peregrine masquerading as Isabella Vinaldi?"

The question hung in the air for a heartbeat as Scarlet thought. An honest answer might lead to a new ally, a lie, and Scarlet might as well pick up one of the rapiers laying on the table in front of her.

She turned away from the swords, smiling calmly at Giovanni and sat down in one of the armchairs near the fireplace.
"You seem to be an 'onest and an 'onerable man Monsieur Bembo. You could 'ave met me 'ere wiz an Armada escort, but you came alone." Scarlet said politely as she removed the peregrine mask.

"Oui, Je suis une fille de La Peregrine. If you know zis, zen you must 'ave met ma mère at sometime. I wonder was zis while she fought for Polaris, or was it after she 'ad switched sides to Marleybone? In ze one case, you could be a possible friend, in ze ozer you no doubt owe a debt, or at least a favour." Scarlet looked shrewidly at Giovanni; watching for any reaction.

"As for ze admirable Isabella Vinaldi -- I received a request from a member of ze Vinaldi family to portray Isabella at tonight's ball." Scarlet finished, still closely watching Giovanni.
Scarlet saw the flicker in Giovanni's eyes as she mentioned a debt or favor, and knew that her guess had hit home. He watched her sit by the fire for a long moment, then reflexively slid one of the rapiers through the military dress sash he wore over his finely embroidered coat, and stood by the other chair, to face Scarlet.

"You are correct. I owe your mother a debt," he answered quietly. "A great debt, in truth. We were on opposite sides indeed, and La Peregrine spared my life when she could have taken it. Though I had not known that she eventually joined our allies, the Marleybonian forces," he added with a humorous twitch of his lips. "A pity I hadn't met her then, as we would have been on the same side, and I should have been spared a most distressing experience. Not to mention the loss of the sword my father gave me when I became a midshipman in the Valencian navy."

Giovanni swiftly grew grave again. "But I am deeply concerned about what you tell me. Tomasso Vinaldi and I often disagree, but we have liking and respect - even friendship - for each other. My wife and Alcina Vinaldi are close, and while my duties have precluded me from visiting the family for some time, I have known the children growing up, even attended some of their birthday parties. Isabella is an innocent young girl, lively and sweet-natured. It seems impossible that she would have an enemy who would wish to harm her, which would be the most logical reason a skillful stand-in would be requested."

He hesitated. "Or is this something to do with Tomasso? I have heard that an emergency at his family estate has required his absence from the city, but no one seems to be able to contact him. And... I have heard other rumors, but they seem impossible. Tomasso is a loyal son of Valencia; he could not be a traitor working with the Resistance as the worst rumors allege."

Giovanni was silent for a moment. "You need not tell me, if you do not wish to. I requested to speak with you because I feared that you meant harm to the Vinaldi family, my friends. I could not help but especially fear for their children, seeing you as -- forgive me-- an imposter. Now that I know you mean them no harm, but are here at their behest, I need not keep you here any longer."

"Yet, the Vinaldis are my friends. You are the daughter of a woman to whom I hold a life debt. If you will confide in me, I will do my best to aid you if I can."
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
The Undead Obeah on Apr 10, 2014 wrote:
Omar scrambled to his feet, rather shaken. The feeling of having his magic sucked out of him brought terrifying memories back to his mind.
"Thank you!" He exclaimed, his voice thick with relief "That spell wasa real nightmare fer me. So, what... Happened?"
Omar was watching the things that were taking place down below, horrified at the state Maria was in and seeing Anne and Lizzy leaving the ballroom with two of the clockwork abominationse escorting them. His horror quickly tuned to anger when he realized that the melodic hex was still sowing discord throughout the palace.
"How could a person simply leech off the love of music and magical energies without showing even a hint of compassion like this. This has to stop NOW!"
As Omar said this, his elegant costume warped into the robes of a Mooshu disciple and a wide-brimmed hat that shadowed his eyes, causing them to faintly glow a ghostly green hue. A scroll appeared levitating at his waist next to a sack of multiple materials that almost seemed to breath like a living thing.
" hehe, I've been longing to try out Zhong Kui's gift out!" Said the Obeah, his wrath suddenly becomeing glee "This little adventure might be more intriguing than ever! So Chrissy, as you may have guessed, this spell is most likely from Dona Graziella's music book. So, how do we get to finding the source?"
Ondine had gloried the influx of power as the spell-song absorbed power from its victims, especially the heady effects of capturing two powerful witchdoctors in the spell. She had not known who the spell had effected, or how many, she just enjoyed the surge of power that filled her, making her feel majestic, even invincible.

Suddenly, a hiccup in the spell dropped the feelings of elation and greatness. She quickly came to a half-cadence, and fit in a rest, a pause, to figure out what had happened.

Somehow, a large chunk of that power surge was gone. She couldn't figure out how that had happened, as she did not imagine that one of her victims could have been simply released from her spell. Was it important? Probably not, she decided arrogantly, knowing the power that surrounded her. But the longer she held the rest, the more likely the spell would weaken and snap, so she returned to the tune, confidently still spinning out the spell.

[OOC: and don't worry Emma, I haven't forgotten you... there's just another piece in the ballroom that needs to fall into place; it's coming...]
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Highlander Fox of ... on Apr 11, 2014 wrote:
(Well, my writing skill has considerably faded. So has my art skill. At least, in my eyes. I'm admittedly shy of posting because of this. I can't create beautiful mental images like Anne and Lizzie... People say I can, but I can't. I'm awful at it. Well, guess I better somehow hop into this again.... But how?)
(OOC: You are fine, Emma. You've already proven your writing skill many times. This is not a contest, we are all creating this story together. And why you haven't felt how to get in right now is very simple: I haven't given your hook yet. Once I give you the hook, it should just come naturally to you, trust me.

You probably have noticed that I'm setting up 'solos' and 'duets' so the players all have something special to do. You sequence isn't quite yet -- you'll see why when we get to it-- but I can give you an idea of what Emma is seeing right now...)

*
Emma, now known as 'Kara', shook her head as if doing so would clear the lingering fuzziness she felt. She had taken a break from dancing, as she had several times this evening, to check on any changes that might herald... well, something. She had been on edge, knowing there was danger, but everything had seemed to be just a glorious party. All her watchfulness had led to her detecting absolutely nothing useful at all.

And then... she wasn't sure what had happened. One moment she had been carefully assessing her surroundings, and the next... well, she wasn't sure. It was as if she had been dreaming for a long moment, unable to think, yet somehow still awake. Emma did not know that Chrissy's talent at magical protection had swept over her and destroyed the spell's hold on her; she only knew that something strange had occurred.

Getting her bearings once again, Emma examined the room once again. Most people were acting... oddly. Dancers were dancing steps that had no relation to the music, which sounded like no dance tune she had ever heard. Some people were looking about them with a puzzled frown, while others were trying to converse wearing confused or blank expressions. And still others were caught up in ordinary conversation, some of it rather loud, and they evidently were not paying attention to anything else going on.

She looked for her 'siblings', and got a nasty shock. Where were Scarlet, Lizzy, and Anne? Where was Tazio? Her eyes narrowed as she looked around. She saw Alcina sitting comfortably at the side with a pregnant lady Unicorn, and there didn't seem to be anyone else missing. Wait. Save one. Where was the Doge?

Scanning the room once again she caught a movement of someone who seemed to be familiar at the arch that led to some side chambers. She moved closer and caught a glimpse of Tazio near a door there. What was he doing? With any luck he would know something as to what her 'sisters' were up to. And if he didn't... well, that problem was best investigated with a little backup.
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Luke Darkrunner on Apr 10, 2014 wrote:
(OOC: Even though I'm not in this roleplay yet, I'm going to wait until my other roleplay starts going, 'cause I've introduced a new character there.)
Hi Luke, welcome back! It's nice to 'see' you again. I look forward to seeing how your new roleplay goes; this one is -as you can probably see- now into its denoument and the players are all in place. It should be finishing up fairly soon - not surprising as it has been going since October (!). But you know, there had to be a lot of dancing, and beautiful clothes, and an opera, and dancing...
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
The Undead Obeah on Apr 11, 2014 wrote:
"Sorry." Omar chuckled "Just wanted to be polite. Also, that seems to be the only way to find the culprit, though I might know someone who could help us out."
Omar led the way to the stairs bout before he went down, he pointed his quarterstaff at the ruined clockwork. Immediately, the scroll unfurled itself and shot a bolt of energy at the musketeer, lifting it up and throwing it into the column where it became apart of the woodwork.
"No worries." He reassured a startled Chrissy "But we couldn't just leave him there. People would suspect. Ladies first."
After they wound their way to the ballroom, they kept to the wall while Omar searched for "Lord" Fonte. He found him near a frozen Maria, hiding behind the curtains and looking unwell.
"Pst! Hobbes ye there."
"Aye." replied the unicorn sickly
"Can you tell where…"
"I Can't hold this in!" Interrupted the woozy swashbuckler "Stand still Omar!"
Alexander raised his hand, the magic of the music that flowed into him gravitating towards it. He then hurled the collected energy he leeched to stay in control of his body at Omar and Chrissy. The magical energy, however, acted like a Big Juju, strengthening their powers and giving them a minty breath of fresh air (a side affect). As this happened, Chrissy got a good look at Hobbes, seeing that as soon as he hurled the spell, he was totally deprived of any magic energy. The spell then flowed towards him again, but just seemed to be absorbed by the magical vacuum that was Nimble Alexander Hobbes.
"Well," said Omar "You certainly went dramatic there."
"Sorry. But containing all that magic was too much for me"
"Oh. Chrissy, let me explain." Continued Hobbes "I was born into the now deceased Shadowmoor House, a Marleybonian/Valencian family that was known for manipulating the magic of spell casters while being unable to use magic of their own. However, the Armada secretly killed off the family during the Polarian War for false treason. Or so they thought. So Imps, what do you want me to find?"
"The source of this musical spell." Replied the relieved Spirit Hunter "Can you give us a heading?"
"Of course! Give me a moment."
As Hobbes took a deep breath, a floating strand of music was sucked into his aura.
"There." He said, pointing towards the stairwell to the second door "it's coming from the old Seance Room on the second floor (OOC: I'm guessing that since it's an old palace, there might have been a doge intrigued in the occult. There is usually at least one)."
"Where upstairs?"
"Don't know. Your going to have to find it."
"In that case, we should better get started."
As the two went up the stairs, Lord Fonte snickered since he did know where it was. However, He didn't want to make it too easy for them. That and he loves his inside jokes (trust me, he's the only one who finds it funny. Hobbes can have a somewhat twisted sense of Humor).
OOC: " I'm guessing that since it's an old palace, there might have been a doge intrigued in the occult. There is usually at least one" Yeah, sounds good to me! Go for it Omar. Oh, and I liked the mint scented air side effect - that was clever.

Just be aware that there are guards about, both living ones and the Armada variety, although some of the Armada soldiers have probably been drawn in to find the elusive Claire. That will make it a bit easier to get around.

And as an aside, I can't decide whether Anne would find Fonte dangerously charming, or find his sense of humor too far from her playful one. Not that they've actually met yet...
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 9, 2014 wrote:
(OOC: Lizzy! Your picture is beautiful! You have expressed such sweetness and personality! Very well done.
And great job heaping coals of guilt on the Doge's head! Well, he deserves it! Excellent sequence; fits beautifully.)

*
Still holding hands in the manner of sisters, Mariella and Violetta were escorted below the surface of Padova into the ancient catacombs. Almost instantly the sounds of the ball were silenced, and the effects of the spell evaporated. Anne's confusion cleared, and Lizzy's headache began to fade.

Anne assessed their surroundings. Upon entering the underground, they seemed to have picked up two more Armada guards, for a total of six. They seemed to be merely Armada regulars, but still an excessive amount of guards for two young girls, surely. Glass globes of chemical lights hung off stone pillars that marked their path downward; otherwise the space around them was dark, with the occasional glimpse of more ancient pillars in the darkness. The sound of their footsteps echoed as if in a vast space, but Anne guessed this was mostly due to the high earthen and stone ceilings, rather than a vast cave. She sensed walls in the darkness not far off, which would be consistent with what their briefing had given them to expect. Certainly the Doge's private cellars and dungeons would not be accessible to the great interconnecting network of catacombs that honeycombed the region directly beneath the city.

When should they make their escape? Certainly before they were locked away in any cells, perhaps chained there... Anne's mind shied away from the image, touching horrible memories she firmly blocked from her mind. If they made their move here they could slip into the darkness very quickly, Anne considered. But she did not like that thick darkness around them; could not shake the notion that more enemies lay in wait unseen.

Unexpectedly, the first two Armada guards called a halt. Now they just stood there, what seemed to be a wide stair landing, surrounded by four pillars of great antiquity, harkening back to ancient Aquilan rule, incongruously beautiful for a stair that led to dungeons. The blue light of a chemical lamp hung from the center of the landing, illuminating two additional Armada soldiers that stood beside the pillars parallel to the stairs. The air was cold here, and the two girls clad in their pretty but impractical ball gowns began to shiver. Their guards paid their discomfort absolutely no heed.

Eight soldiers, Anne thought, frowning. Not good odds at present, even if the darkness turned out to be protective and welcoming instead of holding the danger she fancied. But what did Lizzy think? She gently squeezed Lizzy's hand and sent her a faint questioning look. After a moment, Lizzy's eyes narrowed and slid down a fraction -- not yet.
Standing still in a small pool of light surrounded by Armada soldiers and chill darkness beyond, Anne tried to keep a tight lid on her imagination, trying to think only of viable escape plans and not think of being an actual prisoner of the Armada. It was not easy, and growing more difficult silent second by silent second.

Swift commanding footsteps came up behind them. Anne stiffened and instinctively tightened her grip on Lizzy's hand. A furtive look behind revealed the footsteps belonged to the Doge, before the Armada guard behind her roughly cuffed her on the head to discourage any curiosity. However, at the Doge's order, Anne and Lizzy were pulled around to face him. "What is this?" demanded the Doge crossly. "I was called here for nothing? I see no problem here."

"Forgive me, but I do, Most Serene Prince." From behind one of the ancient catacomb pillars, a handsome Unicorn emerged from the shadows into the pool of light, and sketched a polite bow.

Nicolo Foscari looked startled for a moment, then his eyes narrowed. "Count Cesare Tori," he replied, automatically giving a courteous nod in exchange. "What are you doing here? How did you find out -- never mind, we will discuss that later. If you are here, then you must understand what I do here," the Doge spoke with stern composure.

"I do, Your Serenity. But approve, I do not."
Commodore
Sep 20, 2009
989
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 11, 2014 wrote:
Scarlet saw the flicker in Giovanni's eyes as she mentioned a debt or favor, and knew that her guess had hit home. He watched her sit by the fire for a long moment, then reflexively slid one of the rapiers through the military dress sash he wore over his finely embroidered coat, and stood by the other chair, to face Scarlet.

"You are correct. I owe your mother a debt," he answered quietly. "A great debt, in truth. We were on opposite sides indeed, and La Peregrine spared my life when she could have taken it. Though I had not known that she eventually joined our allies, the Marleybonian forces," he added with a humorous twitch of his lips. "A pity I hadn't met her then, as we would have been on the same side, and I should have been spared a most distressing experience. Not to mention the loss of the sword my father gave me when I became a midshipman in the Valencian navy."

Giovanni swiftly grew grave again. "But I am deeply concerned about what you tell me. Tomasso Vinaldi and I often disagree, but we have liking and respect - even friendship - for each other. My wife and Alcina Vinaldi are close, and while my duties have precluded me from visiting the family for some time, I have known the children growing up, even attended some of their birthday parties. Isabella is an innocent young girl, lively and sweet-natured. It seems impossible that she would have an enemy who would wish to harm her, which would be the most logical reason a skillful stand-in would be requested."

He hesitated. "Or is this something to do with Tomasso? I have heard that an emergency at his family estate has required his absence from the city, but no one seems to be able to contact him. And... I have heard other rumors, but they seem impossible. Tomasso is a loyal son of Valencia; he could not be a traitor working with the Resistance as the worst rumors allege."

Giovanni was silent for a moment. "You need not tell me, if you do not wish to. I requested to speak with you because I feared that you meant harm to the Vinaldi family, my friends. I could not help but especially fear for their children, seeing you as -- forgive me-- an imposter. Now that I know you mean them no harm, but are here at their behest, I need not keep you here any longer."

"Yet, the Vinaldis are my friends. You are the daughter of a woman to whom I hold a life debt. If you will confide in me, I will do my best to aid you if I can."
Scarlet gazed into the fire, deciding how much to tell, and how much she could claim to not know.

"Zere is a suspicion zat ze Doge 'ad planned zis ball as a cover to quietly arrest ze Vinaldi family. So, in response to zis, I and a few friends were asked to take ze places of ze Vinaldi enfants, while ze real ones are smuggled safely away to zere fazer. As far as ze plan goes, zat is all I know of eet."

Scarlet finished and raised herself from the armchair, putting her mask back on at the same time.

"I would appreciate any 'elp you can offer, but I am also sure zat mes amis and I are completely capable of 'andling ourselfs. Despite our ages, zis would not be ze first time we 'ave faced ze Armada. And I am zink you may want to make sure zat your wife is safe. Family should always come before any favours."

"Et, maintenant, Monsieur Bembo, I zink you 'ave been 'ere alone wiz Isabella long enough. Even zo mon frère is watching ze door, I still do not currently 'ave a chaperone wiz me."

Scarlet once more assumed the identity of Isabella Vinaldi and began to leave the study, nearing the door.
Admiral
Oct 27, 2009
1439
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 11, 2014 wrote:
OOC: cute, Calamity, but the sewers of Padova don't interact with the catacombs at least under the Doge's palace. I had tried to make that clear indicating that walls were sealing off the area from the network of catacombs under the city, but I guess I didn't do an adequate job, sorry. But you must agree that placing dungeons in an area where anyone with a map of the catacombs could access it would be a bad idea, yes? Never mind cellars filled with food and drink. That's why the walls were built to seal in this section for the Doge's personal use.
ooc: I did miss that. I was guessing there were secret passages out, through a series of hidden doors, that led into sewers or catecombs, or even a guarded but discrete exit out into the city tunnels or catecombs. I was thinking of a "traitor's gate", where those who displeased the leader could be taken through unseen, perhaps on the way to a prison.
Perhaps we can say that rats can squeeze through where others can't, and go places no one else would want to. Maybe he got turned around in the sewers, lost in a series of drains, and came in through a guardrobe.
Petty Officer
Oct 29, 2012
56
OOC: Hey everyone! I'm so sorry about my absence, I need to catch up to what's currently going on in the role play in order to respond. It might take a while.

Also, congrats Anne for becoming a kingsisle blogger! That was a brilliantly written piece, I loved it!
Admiral
Jul 27, 2012
1196
OOC: As per One-Eyed Jack's request, we are going to transfer the action of this story over to Pirate101 Central. I've started a synopsis thread over there (under 'stories and poems') so that people do not have to read through 16 pages to find out what is going on. That way too, Alura, you will be caught up and all the participants will have fresh the background information, though for a little while our stories are going to be a bit separate until we solve the individual problems I've set up. And while the synopsis will not include the majority of the adventures our pirates have gone through, perhaps it will give enough interest so that those who want to read (or re-read) the 16 pages here may do so. I see no need to transfer all this data to Central, unless Jack decides it is a good idea. Otherwise it can simply be archived here.

Since all the major characters have been revealed, the synopsis will include their motivations and personality profile. Well, most of them anyway: there are a couple characters who have not fully revealed their cards, as it were. But what is known of them will be in the synopsis. Hopefully it will provide interest and clarity. So please bear with me as I craft the synopsis and bring everyone to the 'present'.
Gunner's Mate
Apr 13, 2010
224
Anne Radcliffe on Apr 19, 2014 wrote:
OOC: As per One-Eyed Jack's request, we are going to transfer the action of this story over to Pirate101 Central. I've started a synopsis thread over there (under 'stories and poems') so that people do not have to read through 16 pages to find out what is going on. That way too, Alura, you will be caught up and all the participants will have fresh the background information, though for a little while our stories are going to be a bit separate until we solve the individual problems I've set up. And while the synopsis will not include the majority of the adventures our pirates have gone through, perhaps it will give enough interest so that those who want to read (or re-read) the 16 pages here may do so. I see no need to transfer all this data to Central, unless Jack decides it is a good idea. Otherwise it can simply be archived here.

Since all the major characters have been revealed, the synopsis will include their motivations and personality profile. Well, most of them anyway: there are a couple characters who have not fully revealed their cards, as it were. But what is known of them will be in the synopsis. Hopefully it will provide interest and clarity. So please bear with me as I craft the synopsis and bring everyone to the 'present'.
(Yay! A chance to get up with the plot! But for now, more Phantom!)

Grace woke up form passing out in the sewers. She was in a ballroom of some sorts. "So glad you're awake, my friend." said the Phantom. "Yes, I have a new mask. Cost so much. Fees for ruining the old one, not to mention I hate the owner of the mask shop, but you don't need to know that." "Whatever. Stop torturing me!" "Fine. If you honor my last request. Teach me how to dance."Fearless?"
... 16