Skip to main content.
Back to Elgana

Past Actions


Action by Redrain for The Thornweave Threat

(Public Action, OOC Date: Oct. 1, 2022, 11:49 a.m.)

"For every name, a village." These are words Gwenna has not forgotten, and she is certainly not alone in hoping to keep the people across the Northlands safe. House Redrain has spent the years since the Pirate War preparing their coffers for future threats, which this certainly seems to be. The goal is to defend the lands and keep as many people safe as possible. Gwenna's role is funding and making sure everyone is as prepared as possible for their endeavors.

House Redrain has offered to pay the up-front cost for up to two siege weapons in each fealty (Stahlben, Acheron, Charon, and Clearlake took the offer!), and plans to build watch towers and way-stations near their own outlying villages. These stations will be stocked with anti-itch salves and bandages, as recommended by Lady Eirene (who has offered to provide humanitarian relief to evacuated villagers), as well as snowshoes to help the Templars, Knights of Solace, and guards stationed in the North to traverse the landscape. These will give the additional patrols in the area places to rest and restock. If they can get their hands on some of the vine-weakening solution, that will be added. These stations are meant to watch for trouble and alert villagers so they might have a chance to get to safer holdings.

With the news of the disappearance of the entire village of Littlebreak, patrols will be sent to the farther-out villages. They are to request the residents consider temporarily evacuating to places closer to their main holdings so as to avoid the same fate.

The Physicians Guild has been given permission to make a base of operations in Redrain lands should they feel such a location would be beneficial.

The tl;dr: building watch towers/way-stations to watch for trouble & stocking those with supplies for patrols/Templars/Knights of Solace, funding defenses for Farhaven and the fealty houses, and evacuations of the most out-lying villages.

Donella is not the nice girl she once was. Donella actually cannot remember being a NICE girl, and having all her teeth. It's been a dark time, and she's pissed. These attacks happening now, on innocent villagers, with everything else happening out east does not work for her right now. NOT TODAY. And though she can boss people around like no one's business, she is still not a warrior. So to help Gwenna, Nell is going *early* to those little intransigent outlying villages on horseback and with wagons that she can get to, and say basically: "Get in, losers, we're going to save the North."

The Princess Consort knows they are invested in their homes and possessions, but home is where your people are. And people are being liquidated to strengthen the enemy, and the hope that their small settlements are too remote for trouble to find them is a forlorn one. "To the last" doesn't mean fighting to the death where you stand every time. It means as long as you have anything to fight with, people in this case, you fight -- and the North needs its people to persist for what's coming. So yes, it's an order: to get to their nearest feudal strongholds, to ride double, to pack grandma and the kids into the wains, to help their neighbors turn the goats and chickens out to pasture and do it NOW.

If reluctance is a matter of property (which is not actually under threat), she'll spend up to a million silver buying them out at generous rates. Hell, she'll carry someone on her own horse ("Horse"). However, those too stubborn to obey while she's putting her bacon on the line for them -- perhaps the North doesn't need that sort of stupidity, and she'll say so. Those she'll tell to keep a dagger to use on themselves in extremis, so they at least don't strengthen the enemy against those who actually want to live to fight like Queen Valeria.

Princess Agatha IS a warrior, and isn't shy about letting people know. Yes, the princess will contribute resources to boosting the outer defenses. Some things also need to be handled personally, and the ginger princess will certainly do that. Donning her armor (is she ever without it...?), Agatha will personally lead her share of the patrols. And when she isn't on duty she will be assisting with training and keeping up morale for the other soldiers.

Helena Redrain isn't about to let What's-Her-Name (the audacity of having the same name! Really!) Thornweave kill any more of the northern folks if she can help it. And while she isn't a fighter in the traditional sense, the princess has long said she will use her voice to fight against oppression, slavery, and the Traitor and his minions. And so she lifts it now -- to try to convince the villagers to move to where it is safer. To assure those who have fears and to encourage those who have hope. She speaks of their courage and their community, of the need to be united. To ask for volunteers to help those less able as they move from their villages to the strongholds. To organize those volunteers into committees -- patrols, scouts, medical, cooks, etc.

Helena would be sure to make a personal trip to Gulljar to ensure the safe retrieval of the enshrined Discordant Harp. She will speak with the villagers and explain the significance of the harp, as she believes it may be useful in the fight against both Thornweave and the Traitor. If possible, Helena will try to convince them to allow her to take possession of it, but if this is not possible, she will strive to ensure that it is in safe keeping among the most trustworthy of the Gulljar villagers.

Kenjay is a diplomat's aide and a man with an unusual viewpoint. As both a prince born to House Redrain and a former slave in a foreign land, he's in a unique position when it comes to persuading people of the Northlands that being a slave is not for them. He's going to be focusing his efforts on the Eurusi expatriates who've settled in more far-flung Northern lands - after all, inviting them in and then leaving them exposed to that sort of danger is just wrong however you view it - but he'll also be trying to persuade more traditional Redrain villagers to come in from the cold. There are some things that even the greatest warriors can't fight, and none knows that better than Kenjay.

The plateau supporting Glacial Grove has an unparalleled view over the Gray Forest, one that, on a clear day, extends as far as Bastion. Charon scouts are particularly trained to interpret the east from this high vantage. Their eastward focus will not change but, given the reports of disappearing villages, is more attuned to look for oddness that may have been dismissed as fatigue-induced in the past.

The watch towers and waystations are positioned along the north, east, and south of the holding in keeping with recommendations from Redrain and the Physician's Guild. The siege engine, gratefully accepted, is positioned to do what the crumbling curtain wall cannot - protect the castle from an enemy that may have the ability to use the grove to advantage.

Arthen Dayne's been away from the world for a spell, it's true, but House Redrain can always count on him to blow back in on the colds winds like a bit of good news in their darker days. He's here to help (well, he was here to fence off some things, but it seems help is needed) and as an 'explorer' he's been all over the north so he feels pretty at home helping to evacuate the outlying and in-danger villagers that need to be sorted and leading them to wherever it is they're going, likely tucked away behind the safer walls of their main holding. If there are Redrain nobles out there hard at work and risking themselves, like as not he'll help them to help other folks, he makes a dang nice right-hand-man when he's not off gallavanting around and leading his own crew on adventures into the unknown.

Once again, another threat looms on the horizon, and the drums of war have started their beating rhythm. Once again, the call has been made - and Morrighan has answered. For a considerable amount of time, the Sword of Farhaven has been silent and unseen, but has maintained a presence. Now, with the North and its people in need, threatened, she's stepped forward to fulfill her duty.

Protect and guard. That's been her motto since the beginning, ever since she swore fealty to Redrain so many years ago, and it's with that motto in mind that she returns to Farhaven. Donning her rubicund-fireweave armor mixture, Morrighan rides North to her adopted home with Demonslayer close at her hip - among the other multitude of weaponry she keeps on her person. Once there, she patrols the castle grounds, and keeps a close eye on the Redrain Nobles, prepared to act if any trouble arises.

One of the few things Deva is confident in her ability is to scout and fight. Years spent away from court and well-removed from society proper has sharpened her attention to such matters-- so these days find her, as Redrain's minister of war, personally involved up north to oversee patrols in the northlands and race to conflict. It's been too long since she has spent more than a brief moment in her homelands, and while this isn't the way she'd prefer it, there's a deep sense of pride in being back and working shoulder to shoulder with Redrain's vibrant people. So she prepares and coordinates with the keen minds of the fealty, escorting villagers to safer havens and ready to shoot evil in the eye when trouble inevitably comes knocking.

As minister of War and former Knight of Solace, working on defenses might just be considered Icelyn's "jam". She's also got the headstart of Aviaron's Peak and the lands under Acheron control being old, strategically located and rife with tunnels with which to build on and prepare.

So mostly she has to assess the current situation and just... tighten it up. An additional siege weapon to watch the pass? She'll take that. Address deficiencies in the existing defenses of different settlements? She'll do that too. Where possible it's not just about rehabbing the defenses and making it easier for patrols to move aboveground though.

Overland routes are subject to weather. Terrain (and much of that around Aviaron not exactly easy to traverse to start out with) can slow movement, and when a settlement is under threat... speed of reinforcements count. So where possible without compromising secure locations tunnels are going to be checked, rehabbed and brought into use. Stability and practicality, yes, but preparations will also be made for the unfortunate potential of an egress being overrun;- to seal off areas if needed to protect the greater whole. Aviaron's Peak has always had hardy and self-sufficient people, Icelyn's job is simply to streamline things and make them work with their liege and vassals to insure that if the enemy comes for their names, it'll cost more than they gain.

Relay stations need people, and people talk. Cadern whole heartedly endorses setting up relay stations, and sets to setting up a number of relays to extend around Blackwood as well and encourages people to supply and exchange with these watchtowers to ensure the messages are continual and ongoing to reduce chances of a series of them going 'dark'. One can never have too much time, too much money, or too many ways of getting information about attacks on towns. Cadern will do what he can to spread plenty of fun stories picking up older tales of heroic messengers, and those who watch the dark.

As Sword of Stonedeep Aksel has distingished himself in the past as one of the best warriors of the North. When the call comes out to assist, he's first in line. He will use his experience as a soldier and fighter, to help ensure that those that are doing tasks are well protected. Either through actively patrolling himself with other groups to provide guidance on how to best navigate the norths various terrains or ensuring that adequate resources are assigned to other groups to assist in being successful. He knows the threats of the North and will use whatever available resources he can to make sure as many people stay alive as possible.

Ann in being born a Redrain will use this to her advantage as well as being Duchess for a time to lend her voice to the patrols that are going out to the far out villages. She will persuade the villargers to come in closer to safety so they do not end up like Littlebreak. Safety in numbers after all. If supplies or money runs low in this crisis Ann will use her skills in economics to make sure the Redrain money and resources stretch and go far to where it is needed until the crisis is over.

Cillian, The Sword of Storm March hears the drums of War and answers their calls with the scouts and Caribou he's trained. Scouting along the pathways his team knows between villages and towers alike which border the Northern wastes. Organizing supply lines and planning for reinforcements when needed. He will do what us necessary to keep his home and lands safe.

While Darren Redrain is the High Lord of the North and has earned the respect of his people and his peers over the course of his rule, it is no secret that Gwenna Redrain is the one who usually makes Darren's plans into reality. Quietly, Gwenna has amassed a fortune for House Redrain through her careful stewardship and diligent work for her people. She is not just respected in the North. She is beloved. Many Northerners admire her for her ability to distinguish herself without ever needing to lift a sword or wade into battle. After all, why does she need a steel blade when she has a will of steel?

The project she undertakes for the protection of the North is daunting. The building of watchtowers and way-stations isn't complicated, just expensive, but Gwenna Redrain's stock of coin and favors more than amply cover such an expenditure, especially with Princess Ann to help squeeze every last silver out of their investments to complete the project.

The really difficult part is convincing those in the most vulnerable holdings to leave their homes for a safer location. It requires all the charm and powers of persuasion of her family and allies. Princess Donella, through sheer common sense, manages to convince a fair share that leaving behind their homes is only temporary and if they don't survive, they won't get to keep their homes anyway. Few can argue with her logic even if they really want to. Of course, with a presence like Aksel at her side, some who might have wanted to be stubborn find that they might just want to follow Princess Donella's instructions instead.

Helena Redrain has a somewhat easier time in convincing. She just doesn't take no for an answer and seems very willing to pack people up into wagons herself despite their protests. Of course, she would be doing these things -sweetly-. With Morrighan at her side to assist in the 'convincing', there is even less room to argue.

Prince Kenjay focuses on the settlements of Eurusi to be found in the North. There aren't many, thankfully, but they are far flung and take him into parts of the land that he might not have seen since he was a small child. It could have been dangerous, but, thankfully, he has Princess Agatha to accompany him and watch his back, particularly out in the wilder parts of the mountains.

Princess Deva Redrain, with her skills acquired when leading people during her time away from the Compact, has those skills put to the test as she ventures into some of the more isolated villages to help guide them to safer pastures. Almost quite literally as a significant part of the train of people that she leads through the mountains consists of sheep that no one is willing to leave behind as they are 'like family'. Arthen Dayne also lends his aid to the efforts, particularly in finding trails through the treacherous mountains that will be safe for humans, wagons, and sheep as well.

Lady Icelyn Acheron, Marquis Cadern Blackwood, and Countess Magaen Charon work with Gwenna's offer of resources and assistance to fortify their holdings against whatever might come, be it Helena Thornweave or some other threat. Their people praise their wisdom and feel much more secure should danger come to them, even as they pray that the efforts of their lieges will be unneeded.

The result almost seems miraculous. A system of watchtowers and way-stations is threaded throughout the North in record time. It's expensive, but most of the nobility and commoners can see the value in the increased communication and fortifications even if they weren't potentially going to war. Even more miraculously, the efforts of the Redrains and their allies to evacuate villagers to safer domains is stunningly successful. There are hold-outs, of course, but after all is said and done, the Redrain evacuation is one of the most successful of such efforts in the Compact, earning the entire family acclaim for their forethought. Even the Lycene have to begrudgingly admit that maybe this new generation of Redrain are far more persuasive than ever. Despite the winds of war blowing over the Compact, some whisper that this is a renaissance for House Redrain after so much suffering and loss in the past decade or so. Most point to Gwenna Redrain as the quiet catalyst for the growth in Redrain power and she gains a reputation in the North as someone who gets. shit. done.

Action by Aella for Elevating Stormheart

(Public Action, OOC Date: Jan. 20, 2020, 6:21 p.m.)

The Ravenseye family have always been seafaring people while others of the North focused their attention elsewhere. It is no secret that Stormheart still relies heavily on the seas and rivers that lead to the city, and Aella has never made it a secret that she wishes more for her family since they have joined the Compact.

Grand plans for a Naval Shipyard to be build on Ravenseye land will increase productivity and income for the County while also providing the North a local ship yard to have their vessels built rather than relying on Mourning Isle families. The closer proximity should allow for Northern materials to be brought to Stormheart so each ship built is done so at a discount to the buyer.

The Naval yard will be in dedicated in honor of Mangata so that the Goddess may watch over each ship created and those who sail on them.

(The social resources are for PR. Buy Ravenseye! The north can be a difficult sell for ships, it certainly isn't their strong suit. Economic resources are for materials and trade agreements with other houses. The Military resources are reserved for protection of the ship yard, as well as making military type ships.)

Lord Arik Halfshav has some experience with development projects over the last few years so after offering his services to Countess Aella Ravenseye she finds a tidy sum of economic resources committed to the project (4000 economic resources) to entice merchants. Not only that but the Halfshav Lord helps with coordinating of caravans and timetables, reports and labor schedules. All the tedious day to day of making sure people get something done.

As the Minister of Fealty for House Redrain, Princess Elgana is more than happy to bring support to Countess Aella's grand plans of a naval yard. While Elgana only knows what she's read about sailing and shipbuilding, it isn't nearly enough to entrust such a task to her, so she leaves that to the professionals. What she does bring, however, is the aid of House Redrain in the form of Elgana working to secure the best merchant contracts possible (5,000 Economic Resources).

She'll talk up the good works of House Ravenseye with building this naval yard to various merchants. Having such independence while also being incredibly thankful for allies in Thrax, such as House Kennex for helping with maritime growth in the north, is a great thing that will bring prosperity, new trade potential, and military might to the Northlands. Who can argue with that?

Rosalind knows next to nothing about building ships, BUT, she's charismatic, gets along with well--anyone and has a really big mouth! Because she enjoys people. Geez! No really--ask around! So she's decided to talk to EVERYONE! All the people! Hey you! Do you know how to build ships? Yes?! Come home with me and build great ships and help with our naval shipyard, Stormheart is amazing, you'll love it! Oh you sail?! You're great at it you say?! Ohymygosh, we need you too! She does know just enough about boats to give out the correct information!

All of this will be spread everywhere, a smile on her face and of course a whiskey in hand. A northerner is always a northerner and alcohol seems to make even more friends!

Princess Consort Donella Redrain will make sure the diplomacy of this task is set up. She will also speak to her connections on Thrax to make sure that things are on the up and up on the basics of construct. The rest will be left up to others. She will make sure to speak to people about how this is a good move and they should support it.

Cadern isn't particularly helpfl for ship sand building but he will help in convincing people to join. This would be a mix of finding and recruiting shipbuilders and incentivizing them to join. He will happily talk up Stormheart and convince people it's THE place to be and go to and assist in recruiting able sailors as well. Cadern focuses on getting the good word out about the project.

Volcica doesn't know much about ships, building, or shipbuilding, but she does know a lot about the spirits. She'll be a guiding hand for House Ravenseye's project, helping to make sure that the spirits and the Pantheon are appeased and happy with the placement of the docks!

While Baltus doesn't know much about building a port or building ships, he does know ships. Which ones are good for which missions and tasks, the quality of one already built. He also knows sailors and knows the tides. And so he offers what help he can in offering advice and organizational assistance.

As a vassal of Crovane, House Ravenseye will receive full support from Duchess Fianna for its naval yard construction. Stormwall has recently built a new port and Fianna will use her experience to assist Ravenseye with its construction, as well as provide black lumber for supply and ships for protection during the process.

Llyr is going to help by giving darwings of design to help woith the ability to vizualize what will be built.

Infrastructure is Kaldur's avocation if not his particular area of expertise. He leads with enthusiasm and vigor for the project, venturing to the worksites as the crafters and laborers toil, unfussed about getting in and helping - particularly when anything needs done in the water. He'll be on boats helping sink pilings, swimming, diving, uncannily at home in the water, as much or more than he is in the saddle.

With his recent experience dealing with large building projects, Valdemar will focus on helping out with the design of the naval yards and the coordination of construction crews for maximum efficiency.

Countess Carita is more than happy to help those that ask her to. When Countess Aella asks her to use her building skills from Darkwaer, Grimhall's naval academy, Clearlake's docks, and numerous other areas, she's built up quite a list of names for people that know the people that get things done quickly, and efficiently. This should be cake, right? Who knows shipyards better than Darkwater?

What a magnificent shipyard it is! Such a massive undertaking increases everyone's standing for a time, and the help this necessarily provides to the Redrain fealty is much appreciated. Building ships in Stormheart is a little cheaper now, which is like to increase its importance.

Action by Alessandro for Greenmarch Road Plot

(Public Action, OOC Date: Jan. 26, 2019, 4:26 p.m.)

The Great Road did not come out exactly -- to put it mildly -- as everyone involved with it would have hoped, but the consequences must be dealt with. So, as Minister of Upkeep for Greenhmarch, Alessandro gets to work. He and other Greenmarch family members take several weeks in Greenhaven to welcome the prodigal refugees and Abandoned who have recently bent the knee, to assure them that they are welcome in Greenmarch and will be protected as strongly as anyone already living there. He takes count of new arrivals and tours current infrastructure to see what might need to be improved, and what needs to be added, and finds the money to do it through the new commerce the road has brought.

Once the survey is complete, he assists with matching new arrivals to current crafters, builders, farmers, etc, who need extra hands, encouraging some to help with the new building projects to house the population boom, or for those with a more martial bent, joining the Greenmarch army or cavalry. He also makes sure that all the new money coming in from trade is accounted for, and flowing out to pay people appropriately.

At the invitation by Greenmarch, Ida will travel to Greenhaven with a few journeymen to assist with building projects where she can. Her main reason for going, though, is to offer smithing lessons to any of the new arrivals who might wish to learn a trade. She'll note her relatively long history with the Greenmarch family and her days as a young smith mostly repairing horse shoes and plows along with fixing armor and forging weapons.

Simone makes the trip to Greenmarch lands, spending her time among their people, new and old. She has long championed bringing prodigals into the fold of the Compact and the Faith, and helping them to transition into their new lives. Now that this group of people is at her own doorstep, she will do no different. She works dilligently to help soothe rattled nerves, smooth out conflicts, and to generally help everyone to adjust to the changes. Getting everyone settled in and productive with as little fuss as possible is her goal, but she does her best to hear out all conflicts personally and to make adjustments to their plans, as needed, to hopefully guide it towards long-term stability, even if in the short term it creates a lot of headaches and extra work.

When Greenmarch calls for aid, Elgana answers with no hesitation. The Redrain Princess is no stranger to assisting her best friends with works for their House, so when the refugees start to pour in she is eager to meet with them to speak on all that Greenmarch has to offer them and what they could perhaps offer Greenmarch in turn. So it is off to their holdings that the Redrain royal travels, making certain her little sister, Helena, and Lorenzo travel comfortably and safely as well. Once there she will work with Helena and Lorenzo to listen to the needs of the people, assure them that they will find a good home in Greenhaven and generally work to make certain fears are quelled, praises are sung, and to point people in proper directions if she cannot answer their questions.

At his brother Alessandro's request, Prince Lorenzo travels to Greenhaven to help as well. Change can be difficult for everyone involved, so Lorenzo uses his diplomatic skills to smooth over disagreements between the new arrivals and current Greenhaven residents in the area. He is an excellent listener and is happy to try to sort out what people need and what can be provided to them to give them hope for their new lives. He always ends his interactions by emphasizing the kind and generous nature of the Greenmarchers, so that people will be willing to go to them to help mediate in the future.

At Greenmarch's request, Helena happily assists, eager to help close friends and her protege's house in this endeavor. She will travel to Greenhaven to speak with the refugees and Abandoned about the many benefits and improvements to their lives that will come with living under Greenmarch's protection. She will sing the praises of Greenmarch as a family and as a march and of their leaders. While the others are busy overseeing the projects and placement of workers, the Redrain princess will answer any questions from the reluctant to try to sway their opinion and bring them under Greenmarch's auspice.

: Margret puts the leadership skills she has learned from being Voice to use, and works to manage all of the projects they need to undertake to ensure that they get the refugees settled. She serves as a liaison between old subjects and new, and ensures that who needs what gets it, delegates tasks to ensure they get done, and redirects resources when needed. In addition to that she finds soldiers in the Greenwood with some military expertise, and has them set up defenses on the road and other vulnerable places in the Greenwood to guard against attacks from the Oathlands houses hunting the refugees.

Artur is always keen to get involved with worthwhile projects and especially to support his protege, Alessandro in his endeavors. House Redrain has a very great deal of experience in incorporating prodigals into society and encouraging good relationships with their new friends and neighbors. A lot of other Redrains are already involved, of course, but Artur is actually a little better than many expect at organizing and coordinating tings and especially with ensuring everyone stays suitably enthusiastic and chipper as they do it! He's perfect to keep everyone on task and keep morale high.

There's far more refugees than they might expect. The propaganda campaign from Elgana and Helena are obviously reaching far beyond Greenmarch's borders, as a flood of refugees come from other Oathlander lands where prodigals are being persecuted, and safe refugee can be expected in Greenhaven. Artur and Lorenzo do a brilliant job of speaking to the flood of refugees, many of them terrified and deeply angry at their lands and making sure tempers do not flare to the point where there could be violence. Simone and Ida perform admirably in helping the new refugees become integrated into Greenmarch, with training and directing them to where they are needed the most, and as for the defenses seen to by Margret...

That's where there might be an issue. Margret does an outstanding job of increasing the defenses, but as Alessandro is seeing to the new refugees, there's an extremely tense meeting with a patrol of dozens of mounted House Delcambre knights, who were intent on riding down prodigals. When confronted by Greenmarch soldiers led by Alessandro at the defensive lines drawn up by Margret, the Delcambre men back off, but it was a near thing- and their captain (who refused to arrogantly refused to identify himself) flatly stated that this was not over, and Greenmarch as 'godless shavs could be expected to be part of the rot at the heart of the Oathlands'. They stated they'd be back- and in force.

The prodigal refugees are extremely grateful for the save, and word of Greenmarch saving them spreads wide, with a surge in income from their domain due to the increased people and productivity, with praise going all around Arvum for their kindness towards refugees. But make no mistake, some of the Oathlands considers them enemies for it.

Action by Niklas(RIP)

(Public Action, OOC Date: Nov. 21, 2018, 10:53 a.m.)

The Good Duke of Gemecitta, a musical comedy by Prince Niklas Grayson

It's time for another Niklas Grayson SPECTACULAR!

With the help of Nightingale Gianna Whisper, Niklas has put together an entirely new form of theatrical entertainment. They've taken one of his older plays, his first real hit, a comedy called The Good Duke and have rewritten it so every scene is a song, every line is a lyric and the entire play is an extravaganza of dancing, singing, acting and (in some cases) fighting. With extensive choreography, music from a number of popular genres and an all star cast, this reimagining, called The Good Duke of Gemecitta, is set to be a genre defining event.

Almost as important as the play itself is the fact that it will be the first theatrical performance held at the Bard's College, meant to demonstrate the worthiness of the College as a venue for all sorts of entertainment. That the show (which Niklas has termed a 'musical', so as to keep it separate from the somewhat artsier 'opera') contains such a mix of performances will allow the auditorium at the Bard's College to show its versatility.

Niklas also pulled together a cast made up of some of the city's most well known singers, dancers and actors. Backstage are legendary and famous artists putting together sets and wardrobes. As well as a veritable army of PR people out there hyping the whole thing. As Niklas has said in his humble and low key manner, this will either be the greatest spectacle in the history of the Compact, or the biggest disaster since the city burnt down. Either way, worth the cost of a ticket, right?

And finally, this is meant to be a big charity event. Once the commoner participants are paid all other funds will go toward Princess-Consort Alarissa Thrax's Thursday's Child project. But wait, what about paying the venue?! Well, it turns out that when you're Assistant Nightingale of the Bard's College you can cut yourself a 100% discount. So every last silver that doesn't go to pay (commoner) cast and (commoner) crew will go toward helping to pay off the debt of thrall children. Given that his brother freed hundreds of thralls, but did so in the dumbest way possible, this is something about which Niklas is actually quite passionate.

There will be no event and as such no specific plot writeup. In a highly general sense the musical is about a conflict between (the wholly made up) Duke Enzo Rubino and Duke Giacomo Zaffria which gets farcically out of control when they schedule weddings for their heirs to occur on the same day. Lady Giulia Igniseri (Sorrel) is betrothed to Lord Stefano Rubino (Alejandro) and Lady Carina Zaffria (Yasmine) is engaged to wicked Prince Marco (no house name, Lumen) and wants out as she and Lady Alessandra Rubino, Stefano's older sister (Bliss) are in love. And of course Lady Eleonora Zaffria (Evonleigh) is in love with Lord Stefano. Marco's sister, Princess Valentina, (Sabella) isn't in love with anyone except herself, but she acts as the narrator and routinely breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly, generally to make humorously unkind comments about the people on stage. There's humorous lyrical dialogue, some of that broad physical comedy from the second act of The Playwrights, three dramatic sword fights (including a three way fight between done to a jaunty saltarella) and a couple of love stories. There's drama, but since this is Nik, there's a happy ending for most characters and only the jerk prince (whose house is never named) ends up getting killed due to his own shittiness as a person. (Note: though his marriage contract allows him to keep publishing as Niklas Kennex, he's decided his old family is full of nerds, so he's going to be Prince Niklas Grayson for purposes of this show.) And while the show gets a lot of comedic mileage out of the unique setup of Gemecitta's duel dukes, the show is respectful toward the city itself, including the intro song sung by Princess Valentina that talks about how great, if weird, Gemecitta is.

Gianna helped write the songs and is providing the stage - the Bard College's Performance Hall - as well as some of the talent, some funding from the College's account, and using the bards to spread word of mouth and up the hype. The problem with all this involvement is that she has a personal stake in how good the singing is, and she is highly critical and determined to make sure the songs are flawless, even if that means people have to learn to sing better. She can show them what they need to do, and she will, but she will not be pleasant to work with. She probably has to be removed from the process at some point. Good thing Niklas has a really high Diplomacy skill! Seriously, there are good reasons she has instructors that aren't her at the College.

Sabella is simply thrilled to take the stage for the very first time acting in her husband's musical as Princess Valentina, wicked Prince Marco's sister and narrator to the story that often breaks the fourth wall to interact with the audience and make fun of the other players. Not only will she eat nothing but lettuce in the months leading up to the production to make sure she looks her best for the role, she will throw herself into learning the lines and the songs and practicing her improv so that this is the very most amazing show that ever existed! BEST PLAY EVER!

Ah, the theater! Princess Elgana is enthused there is to be another play put on but the fact that it is a production by Prince Niklas is just the icing on the cake. How could she ever dream of saying 'no' to a chance to promote his latest work? There is an all-star cast! Music! Drama! Laughter! It has everything and she's going to bend the ear of anyone who stands still long enough around her to get the word out about this production and how amazing it is going to be and how anyone who is ANYONE in this city ought to be there on opening night.

Berenice has agreed to help promote Niklas's newest production, but she's taking a very particular spin on it: she's talking up her interest, certainly, dropping it in conversation about how excited she is for opening night, but more than that, she's going to be flexing her wiles to get all sorts of people competing for the honor of escorting her to opening night. Will it involve duels? It might, you never know. Will Berenice _encourage_ people to duel over getting to take her to the theater? One hundred percent absolutely. She's going to make an absolutely delightful game of the whole thing. Who will actually take her to opening night? THAT'S NOT IMPORTANT. Hopefully there will be tears and fights and DRAMA before the curtain even opens.

Once again, and to her great excitement, Tabitha will be lending her efforts to any tasks that require the skills of an artist: painting sets, creating props, applying stage make-up and so forth. She'll happily work with the team of artists as a whole, as well as on her own when appropriate. She's an organised busy bee who likes to get get along with others to help a project reach its full potential, so she'll be at her smiling and enthusiastic best among like-minded people of a creative bent.

Sorrel being the Bladesong is a triple threat: an incredible soprano, an excellent dancer, and a swordswoman of some note. She's set to play Lady Guilia Igniseri, the Rubino-Zaffria vassal, in a stylish, charming way. She's quite involved in training the actors and actresses for the show, and she and Bliss are working out choreography for when Lady Alessandra Rubino and Lady Guilia bring swords into their squabble over who should get the world's most useless and undeserving prince, before making up and singing a brilliant duet about how neither of them need that particular man. Sorrel is mainly concerned with helping to showcase the talents of commoners whose livelihood she would like to boost with this all-star cast and in training those with less experience to have more confidence.

Yasmine will be bringing her formidable skills as an actress, singer, and dancer to the role of Carina Zaffria, the apple of her father's eye, yet not without considerable cunning of her own. In the part, the Ravashari embodies the dual characteristics of the 'stereotypical Lycene' by being both sweet and relatable to the audience while also conducting machinations to attempt to assert her own will. On the stage, Yasmine beguiles, whether with her ability to fully embody whatever role she plays, her rich contralto voice, or her expert dancing.

Lumen will be embodying the wicked Prince Marco, intermingling her on-brand impishness with the debonair stylings of a highness entirely lacking in moral high ground. This is not Lumen's stage debut. She portrayed a man in Lord Niklas Kennex's The Playwrights.

Delilah might be a pretty ornament to the stage, but her real threat originates in the province of the pen. Prince Niklas has scored the masterpiece for the stage, and she will be lending the ghostly weight of ink and inspiring words to seed excitement and interest far and very, very wide indeed. Given the Lycene flavour of things, she is gently applying a particular impression to build fascination or interest. That means scattering tidbits to the right people. Influencing the right sorts to carry on the word, to build up a buzz (even if they weren't all that aware before, they sure will be now...). She sends breathless excerpts into the Hundred Cities, stitching and building a train of anticipation about how good things are. Sentiments peppered with the taste of mysteries and drama on the stage, the historical wonders, the *intrigues*. Did we mention intrigues? Possibly scandal? The things that sell tickets and cement the memory are a grand tradition of developing stories, and she will spin one about the tireless playwright, the dashing and debonair actors, the brilliance waiting to be seen like a cut diamond until it's basically Hamilton 2.0 of Arx.

Alejandro takes his talents to the stage for a second time in this new production, playing the role of Lord Stefano Rubino. While his life's focus has typically been in music, he possesses enough natural charm and performing ability to once again handle an acting role. Putting his all into his performance, he focuses his time and practice mostly on the swordfighting aspects he may be called upon to perform. It's probably more a dance than a fight, so he feels comfortable enough. Alejandro works hard, devotes himself to the role, and attempts to put on a good performance.

Initially getting involved in this only for a lark, more or less, Tikva's largely present as a very dramatically loud _voice_ -- there are many actors and musicians in the city who she has no interest in intervening in the livelihoods of, but what weight she can lend to Niklas by putting her showmanship to use here, she does, cheerfully and with great embrace of absurdity.

Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk will be performing in Prince Niklas' play as one of the actresses, of course! She's been trained to do it all -- singing, dancing, comedy, tragedy... Though let's be honest: it's a good thing it's a musical comedy. While Evon's singing voice is sweet and on key, she has not the depth or richness of tone nor the range of a proper vocalist. Any songs she performs in are "sold" by virtue of her acting ability and her charm. The acting, she has the chops for, whether a comedic or dramatic scene, and she will do her best to win over the audience with every line, smile, or sob.

As a lover of the arts, and a tremendous fan of Gianna Whisper and her patron Prince Niklas, Countess Carita is very proud to support Prince Niklas' talents as a playwright and the Bard's College's very first theatrical performance by donating from her own personal funds. That the cast will be a group of people she has come to know well for their musical talents has made Carita dig deep in to her pockets to support them, adding 5000 silver to help ensure the production's success.

Aurora was the costumer the first time this performance was put on, and will reprise her role this time. The costumes don't change too much, just because its a musical this time doesn't mean there is a dramatic shift, though tailoring is done to ensure that the costumes fit their new wearers. More have had to be added too, to include the chorus and other stand ins on the stage.

Playing the role of Lady Alessandra Rubino, Bliss emerges onto the stage in her element - or at least, hopefully so. This role was practically written for her, and whether it's the swordfights, the speaking parts, or the saltarella, the Champion Whisper is more than able to keep up. Indeed, she's going to bring a high level of exuberance to the role, and while the swordfight will of course display skill with the weapon - it's not really about the speed of movement, is it? No, it's about how flashy and entertaining she can make it. Tricks that would never see the sands are going to come out in the show - movements of the blade meant to awe and impress. Hopefully no one gets too hurt, and if they do? Hey, that can be part of the show as well. Maybe even just having her name on the billing will bring in a certain type of fan, as well, that will increase the name recognition of the show. We can only hope.

Rook is, as ever, the hypeman. Patron of the arts, magnate, and philantropist. It's his duty to encourage people towards the burgeoning shows within Arx, and for those that aren't politely within his company simply to get something, they normally even listen to his suggestions. Utilising his extensive contacts within and outwith the Peerage, such as the merchant rungs, Rook targets high profile individuals for putting bums on seats for this event. For those that know his lovely partner, of course, Yasmine will be involved! For the royalists, oh by the Pantheon, House Grayson's own has authored it! It simply cannot be missed.

Caspian is the stunt trainer. He is showing the actors how to perform various stunts and choreographed fights and makes sure everything is nice and polished for when the curtains rise and the show begins.

Liara, with all her customary cheerfulness and passion, talks up the production no end, particularly among the more junior nobles of the Crownlands and of Arx with whom she so often associates. They simply must see it! Or so she says. She even sends a few letters back home to try and wrangle up visitors from Bastion, assuring them that it will be an unmissable spectacle.

There is no acting, no singing, no performances from Alarissa with regards to the latest production of Prince Niklas Grayson. Not in the least. Anyone who thinks they might see her get on a stage and act is going to be disappointed. But what she does do is promote the hell out of the production. She has a good reason to given the deal Niklas struck with her in exchange for applying her social weight. And so when she is out and about, at parties, fluttering a fan, sipping tea, eating with friends and perusing stores for the latest and greatest of trends, she's encouraging people to go see this latest production. Likely to be the talk of the town, filled with notable of society both noble and less than noble, prancing about the stage and giving their all. Shouldn't they go and support their fellow blooded? She thinks so, she's even going to be front row - well, up in a box and away from the rabble of course - and watching. And it's a way to help say you were -there- when this happened, and to indirectly support Thursday's Child in the process. Charity -and- entertainment all in one? Besides, it's bound to be entertaining in some fashion yes? Yes? Probably.

Prince Niklas Grayson is at it again. Or Lord Niklas Kennex? Something about the marriage contract and he's writing under his original name but then he's also Princess Sabella's husband and everyone knows Princess Sabella so now it's suddenly confusing. So they just start calling him The Playwright, and it sticks - and now no one has to remember surnames and contracts not their own.

In any case he's written a new play, calling this one not an opera but a musical. But the names have the starry-eyed among the theater in awe. Princess Sabella acts in her first title role as Princess Valentina, her turn both hilarious and touching. Her humor makes people gravitate toward her, and she is widely hailed as a resounding success in her inaugural role.

Princess Sorrel Thrax, Bladesong and Singer of Heroes, takes a break from astounding the Compact with her own work to perfom someone else's - and she too is a hit. In fact more people than usual come just to see her perform - can you really blame them? Of course not.

Yasmine Champagne, popular model, fashionista, and not-quite-as-scandalous-as-she-used-to-be Prodigal acts, sings, and dances her way across the stage. She reminds everyone why she is so often the talk of the town with another stellar performance.

Bliss Whisper plays a part too, and where her exceptional enthusiasm is, can the Nox'alfar be far away? The entire second floor is bought out opening night by a Nox'alfar delegation, who come en masse to see Bliss perform. They're only a little disruptive of course - their cries of BOO! every time Bliss leaves the stage, and the standing ovation that grinds everything to a halt when she enters gradually stop - about fifteen minutes before the end of the play.

Lumen, Radiant of the Whisper House herself, plays the lead in a performance by turns dark and witty. Sometimes both in the same turn. She outdoes herself and shows why she is so highly sought after in the Whisper house.

Princess Tikva, Alejandro Rossetti, and Lady Evonleigh join this all-star cast. Maybe some are taking it more seriously than others but this musical has it all - ranging from the dramatic to the comedic, there's a part to play for everyone and everyone has their part to play.

And where there is music, is the Nightingale very far behind? No she is not - Gianna Whisper wrote the music herself for this play. Sets are by the incomparable Lady Tabitha and they veritably take one's breath away. Aurora, the legendary seamstress, provides unbelievably beautiful costumes. Caspian trains the actors in their stunts, the Grandmaster of the Champions Guild helping make sure the fight scenes are entertaining indeed. It's like he's done this before.

Princess Elgana, Princess Berenice, Lady Delilah, Countess Carita, Princess Liara, Princess-Consort Alarissa, and the Redoubtable Rook all publicize the event. They're all going to opening night, and to random nights thereafter - and that's enough to ensure that this new play by The Playwright (who might be a Kennex or might be a Grayson or might be both but it doesn't matter) is a roaring success.

Action by Gianna

(Public Action, OOC Date: Sept. 15, 2018, 10:02 a.m.)

For the past half year, the Bard's College has been under construction. Curiously, it was essentially the perfect building when Gianna first found it; the work has mostly been restoration and the construction of a stage suitable for putting on plays. Donations from various supporters has fueled rapid progress, and now the College is ready to open, fully functional. There will be an event. Gianna will perform at this event.

As the Voice of the Bard's College, Nik will be pulling all the strings he has to make certain that the grand opening of the Bard's College is seen as a momentous and defining cultural occasion in the history of Arx. The Black Rose what? The Empyrewho? It's all about the Bard's College. Your premiere source in the entire Compact for becoming the best performer, musician or singer possible and, for the party host, your source for the finest entertainers in the whole damn world. You heard me, Cardia! Your barbershop dragon quartets got NOTHIN' on the Bard's College! So he'll gladhand his fellow nobles and convince them that the grand opening of the Bard's College is easily the most incredible thing that's ever happened to them, even if they have beautiful children or fought in ugly wars, the Bard's College still comes in at #1! This could be THE moment of this era. Why would they not want to be part of it? And if they're going to be part of it, why wouldn't they want to donate so they can /really/ feel like they participated in a generational shift for Arvum? What's a few (thousand) silver if it means you can be a part of history? Legends come and go, people, but Nightingale Gianna is an ICON and ICONS ARE FOREVER. Be a part of her story! It'll only cost you your money.

Sabella will be going all out talking up the Bard's College opening to anyone that will listen! It's the first time something like this has opened in Arx and don't you want to be part of history?! Especially nobility--there's always a need for skilled musicians at parties and wouldn't you like the Whispers you hire to be able to mingle? Well, now they can because you'll have such wonderful, trained musicians to choose from thanks to the Bard's College! Why not show up for the opening and maybe make a donation!

Porter Kennex spends some time dragooning the more urbane ship captains, and the ones who were just inclined toward music in general, about the opening of the Bard's College. They should come. Bring your wives, they'll love you for it. Most especially, he provides a donation and starts a stipend to the Bard's College.

Aahana is using her charm and ways of conversation to mention EVERYONE who is ANYONE should attend the grand opening of the Bard's College. She provides social and economic writs in aide.

Who loves the arts? Elgana loves the arts! And nothing makes her heart soar more than the idea of assisting with the grand opening of the Bard's College. She knows how much love, blood, sweat, and tears (and maybe booze) that Gianna has poured into this, so Elgana will do her part, play her role, and ensure that it is the talk of the city, the Compact, for years to come for all the right reasons. Anyone who will give the Redrain princess a moment of their time will leave her presence knowing it is the place to throw their silver, their time, and the place to be seen if they want to be at the forefront of the social scene. Who doesn't love a good bard? And since she knows how much Prince Niklas and Princess Sabella love the arts she'll work with them as well to assist in spreading the love and the word to get those donations rolling in.

Given that Lucita is part of the bardic college, and Quenia is Lucita's protege, she wishes to see this organization thrive. She puts some of her social might behind it, as well as some of her economic might, and talks to all of her friends and allies about the organization, and how they teach others how to be the best performers they can be.

Wylla loves art! Of course she does. She wants others to love it too. She'll be providing a blessing at the opening of the Bard's College, and will be using her status as the Archlector of Jayus to throw some theological weight behind the college as well.

Eddard Clement takes to announcing himself as a member of the Bard's College everytime he performs at a low-key corner of a tavern or pub. Then reminding patrons of the soon upon them Grand Opening of the Bard's College! His time is well spent practicing songs of this sort or the other to ensure he is ready to *perform at the grand opening*.

Perronne does not necessarily LOVE art, but she likes art! And she likes the idea of the Bard's College, so she will go to her fellow merchants and speak with them about the economics of an organized group of bardic entertainers, who could potentially aid in the promotion of various goods and services, if well-payed and well-treated. She also points out the value of hiring bards on long caravans, and that bards trained and patroned by the College have a much lower possibility of being thieves or brigands in disguise. She donates significant of her own funds towards the opening and initial support of the college, and encourages her peers to do likewise.

The opening of the Bard College is a grand affair, hosted by - and hosting - many notables across the breadth of the city. The Nightingale herself performs - this is not a surprise, since the establishment of this has been her focus for years now. Prince Niklas handles publicity, organizing an army of people to talk about every facet of the upcoming event - Princess Sabella, Lord Porter, Lady Aahana, Princess Elgana, Marquessa Quenia, Archlector Wylla, Lord Eddard, and an adventurer named Perrone move through the city doing their best to make sure everyone knows what's coming.

And people show up from all across Arx, some even coming to the city for a visit with plans to see the College. The bardic tradition is important, and rumor has it that this old building, newly-refurbished, is quite beautiful indeed. And on the night of the grand opening, everything is stunningly perfect and polished within an inch of its life. The music is glorious, the company sublime, the acoustics absolutely amazing. And the mural? The mural on the floor is gorgeous, and no one can seem to agree on what they liked best about it.

In fact, upon closer examination the mural seems to shift depending on who's looking at it and when. Cleaned and restored, the night of the party people mention their favorite parts of the mural - a hooded figure with a lute, a woman with laughing green eyes and a sly smile opening her mouth to sing, a choir of figures singing in the woods, and sometimes it looks like the trunks of the trees have faces. It's a fascinating piece of art, and new details are seemingly noticed every day.

Action by Giulio(RIP)

(Public Action, OOC Date: July 21, 2018, 6:52 p.m.)

Having been granted leave by Hadrian and Cambria to form a new vassal house -- though, without reliance on House Mazetti resources, Giulio is going to begin the work towards finding a shav tribe that would be amenable to joining the Compact. As part of this, Giulio intends to cement the new alliance with bonds of blood, and will offer to marry one of the 'noble' members of the tribe, who is of marriageable age, healthy body and hale of mind and spirit.

This endeavor will likely take some time, and will be focused in the Lyceum. To Giulio's benefit, he does speak the tongue of the Lycene shav and is going into this with the understanding that not all of the tribes are alike. He is particularly looking for a tribe that is likely to have the least difficulties with melding itself into the Compact. Additionally, he will attempt to shy away from tribes that seem to be engaged in shadowy worship.

As of late, the Archduchess of Lenosia has been personally attending whenever her vassals (or vassals of vassals) interact with the Shav'Arvani, especially when they are trying to convince them to bend the knee and join the Compact. The Grand Duchess makes a point to display the wealth and strength of the Lyceum in her person, something that potentially speaks even more loudly than the words she says.

Mydas does not speak the language of shavs, yet this barrier won't stop him from appliying his intellect in preparing messages of propaganda to put Giulio's efforts under the best light, to be translated by those able to speak the language. He does not take a center role, and indeed much to his habit, his influence is felt rather than seen. Distant aid, yet no lesser for it.

Iseulet helps Giulio with the diplomatic side of this effort and while she doesn't speak the language but she has a good mind for negotiation and a silver tongue to boot. Whenever able, she definitely pulls her weight with words in his favor, too. Not only with the tribe themselves but with the rest of the Compact trying to avoid any political messes and thumbing of noses from the Peerage as best as she can.

Elgana has never been to the Lyceum but what a better time than the present to change that! Sure, she doesn't know the land itself, but she has made a great many friends who are part of the Lyceum since coming to Arx and has learned a great deal from them about their home, their culture. And since it is now one of those friends who has called upon her to assist, assist she shall. She will accompany Giulio but stay largely out of the way of any fighting - no fighting for this Redrain! - and instead she will speak with the people and talk both Lord Giulio /and/ the Compact up. What can this man do for them? What can the Compact do for them? She'll be certain to help him give the right answers and look friendly, charming and approachable while he is giving them. She will be on her most charming behavior for if there is one thing this Bear Princess knows, its people.

As Mydas makes his influence felt from afar, Duarte takes that campaign to the lyceum directs and manages the day-to-day of the diplomatic efforts following along the generalized positions and outline set. He is receiving the debriefs from the field and planning the next diplomatic maneuvers in either continuing negotiations where appropriate, or moving on entirely; helping to isolate the most advantageous arrangements and leveraging political capital. He is essentially managing the activity and actions of the legation.

Mirari does not speak the shav language, but she can climb over the language barrier to speak passionately about Guilio and his drive and abilities. She will find people in small groups, speak to them as the Sword of Lenosia, telling them how much better life could be under good leadership.

Grazia is remarkably good at getting people to believe that what she's saying is in their best interests and even happens to be their own excellent idea. She's going to help Giulio for her own reasons, as a favor, but she'll certainly work to build him up as a paragon of Compact leadership as well as presenting Compact membership as an extremely appealing idea. She's got a commanding presence to her and she knows the Lyceum well, even if she doesn't know this particular group of shavs, and she'll make a point of lucrative alliances both in and out of their fealty chain. It's obviously pragmatic for them to form a County, for the wealth and well-being of all, especially since they'll have powerful allies.

In support of Giulio, Talen will be attending the Archduchess during her address on the Mazetti lord's behalf, complimenting the speech with a demonstration of military prowess. Velenosan infantry in full plate armour with war hounds to accompany them, fully barded heavy cavalry churning up the turf as knights ride, and destructive power of a siege weapon will be all shown as a core reason why the Shav'arvani-- unless they side with the Abyss-- are powerless against the forces of evil. It is a show meant to pair itself with Eleyna's speech in not threatening the Shav'arvani, but rather imploring them to take the protection of the Compact, so that they do not need to become the puppets of the Abyss.

Of course, it also works well as a cover for having an actual army there, just in case bad shit does go down.

House Corvini is in many ways a perfect fit, really. They aren't warlike, they were a respected house of the Compact before the Crownbreaker Wars and vague memory of them remain, they aren't shamanistic. The propaganda efforts, and particularly House Velenosa getting behind this and pushing, are largely successful mostly since the Corvinis are far more acceptable by comparison to the recent Redrain houses of wild shavs, or for the Volkovs closer to home. So critically, while the diehard traditionalists will always resent -anyone- being ennobled, even there it could be argued it's just a restoration of their deserving station and Giulio was a respected noble being granted his own holding, which is unexceptionable. Of course, some truly just hate Abandoned regardless, and there will be a lingering degree of disttrust and hate directed at Corvini, but far less than at some of the others.

Action by Gianna

(Public Action, OOC Date: July 6, 2018, 5 p.m.)

Action: The newly established Bard's College has been given a task by Bliss Whisper on behalf of the Whisper House: they are to use 500 social resources the House already donated to find some of the best instrument makers in the compact and see if they can discover new sounds.

This is also a great opportunity to talk about the Bard's College in various villages, towns, and cities: hopefully this will encourage traveling musicians to make a stop at the College in Arx and might lure some musicians to the city as well.

Gianna will be holding performances as she travels, testing instruments by playing them, and so on and so forth. Basically, she will use her charm and skill to hype the college as much as she can, which should help legitimize it in the eyes of the Compact.

Porter isn't what one would call connected within the musical sphere of influences, but there are a number of musical instruments that do have their uses in the navy. Drums to keep the beat of the rowers, signaling horns, and even more for parades and events. And he has a few ancillary connections, socially, that he can direct toward the Bard's College. Porter will primarily seek out his military contacts, as they are industry sources. Even if they aren't able to meet the needs, they surely know who the bespoke instrument dealers are.

Performances you say? Well, performances need audiences and Caith is just absolutely adorable and charming AF -- she is sooper dooper good at flittering into bars and taverns, salons and dance houses, theaters and halls and getting people excited about hosting a performance by Gianna -- THE Gianna -- from the Bard's College. Oh yes, the Nightingale herself! These concerts become the /must-attend/ events everywhere they go and anyone who is aaaaaanyone makes certain to be seen at these parties.

River has been touring the various taverns inns, and concert halls putting his harp skills to good, use, using his small area of skill in the area of social areas to talk up the bard college. While he doesn't seem to have much in the way of military connections he is plenty connected to the various circles of lords and ladies, his music and talent allowing him to be at various parties and events, where he is able to let others know of the Bard's college's work. This increases his donations of silver, with many benefactor's pushing both social clout and Economic backing to the college.

If there is one thing Princess Elgana Redrain loves it is a good show. When word reaches her about Gianna's tour she jumps at the chance to bring the Nightingale, and her talent, that much closer to the North. She'd accompany the tour as far north as Gianna dares to travel in winter using her own social contacts, and pull as a Princess of Farhaven, to spread the word amongst the populace and help secure lodging and even helping hands for the tour. She'd ensure that not a single person was left not knowing of the Bard College or Gianna, the Nightingale. Back in Arx, she'd see about working with any others on getting crafters excited to be a part of the Bard college by either helping fix up the college itself or create musical instruments for its use.

Sabella will happily reach out to any contacts she knows, both those in the crafting world when it comes to people who might make instruments and also just people in general in the areas that Gianna is traveling to in order to secure lodging and talk up the Bard's College. If nothing else, maybe it will allow her to stay in elevated lodging and play for some nobility while she's at it! To add to this (and ensure the nobility trust that the Bard's College is totally serious and on the up and up), Sabella will accompany Gianna on a few of her stops, happy to talk up the Bard's College, but also the perform with the Nightingale (should she be all right with it!) to show that hey, if the Bard's College can teach a princess to sing that well maybe there's hope for everyone!

With a mission and with friends, the Bard College denizens sally forth to find better quality musical instruments, and maybe even uncover something new! Lord Porter helps, with contacts far and wide. River Whisper helps too, holding concerts and showing off his harp skills. Princess Elgana helps as they travel north, introducing them around and bringing the Nightingale to cheer the Northern taverns and push away the cold up in Redrain.

Princess Caith and Princess Sabella choose to divide and conquer, working together to spread the word far and wide in support of the Bard College and the concerts they're holding. And overall it's a huge success. In the dead of winter, the warmth of music is an almost tangible thing, and the travelers find themselves welcomed everywhere they go. And the merchants are glad to show them their finest instruments, and these journeymen bards get their pick of some of the best instruments in the realm.

And the absolute best find is a beautiful, masterfully carved instrument something like a viole, called a "citole" by the peddler who offers it to them after a particularly fine performance, telling a story of how it was passed through her family for generations, but she can't really even play it. And so they return to Arx, their mission successful and a new instrument to try to figure out during the rest of those cold winter nights.

Action by Rinel

(Public Action, OOC Date: May 10, 2018, 11:21 p.m.)

Rinel is planning to attend a nautical adventure, and she plans not to disappoint! The scholar is tasked with recording all that occurs on and off the ship--a logistical nightmare involving carrying around paper, ink, and quills, to say nothing of the ever-present danger of waterlogged and ruined notes. So she's set her mind to fixing the problem, and after endless discussions with carpenters, beekeepers, and merchants, she thinks she has it! Wax tablets, which can be opened and closed like a book, and written upon with a stylus. They're reusable--a benefit to merchants and teachers alike--and they're waterproof. All that needs to be done to reuse the tablets is to heat the wax--or if one is on a boat, or in a pinch, to scrape the wax back with a scraper on the reverse edge of the stylus. The design is certain--Rinel's sure of that--but producing it? Now, that's the real trick. It will require all sorts of industries: beekeepers, carpenters, chandlers... So Rinel's plastered a big smile on her face to hide the fact that she's terrified, and the scholar is off to create a whole new industry herself. Here's hoping.

Elgana is assisting with social aspects of Rinel's project

Ever the doting paramour, Wynna is finally getting off her rump to help Rinel out with her wax-y ambitions. She'll lean on the various merchants and such to convince them that it's a sound and useful investment to be contributing towards.

Rinel goes and talks to beekeepers, carpenters, and others. With the help and support of Princess Elgana Redrain and Lead Archivist Wynna, they listen. Dubious at first, they still work with Rinel on creating her vision and bringing it to life - and it has some interesting success.

While not appropriate for archiving things, or keeping writings in the long-term, it does provide a reusable tablet for quick notes and writings that will later be transferred to traditional vellum. And it is especially liked by those who travel by sea - waterproof tablets are an excellent way to keep track of things while aboard a ship.