Graded [Azuran City] *✧･ﾟMystery at the Valeriana Manor*✧･ﾟ

Glacier​

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Glacier did not know why he had received the invitation; though he considered himself more of an associate of the Adventurer's Guild than a member, Glacier had been looking around one of their buildings when someone approached him to deliver a letter.

Thus, Glacier found himself walking through a street in a settlement called "Azuran". While he travelled, Glacier enjoyed the cold of a Winter night, and snow beneath his paws of ice; the calming temperature was a welcome respite from his recent adventures in more warm weather. It was also useful information to know that the Winter Solstice in this world was soon, as he didn't have much in the way of telling the date.

Turning a corner, Glacier spotted a grouping of three people in front of what must've been "Aloe's" house; it seemed that the letter wasn't solely for him, or else this was quite the coincidence. Approaching them, Glacier slightly bowed his head in greeting. "Greetings to you all... would you three also happen to have received a letter from this Aloe?" Glacier asked, his speech having notable intervals, before turning his head to Eriedeth. "Ah, hello once again... I recall that we have met before, in the defense of an Eastern Empire town, yes?"

Looking to the human, Glacier found the flag on the man's clothing quite familiar, but it remained just outside the grasp of his memory; perhaps he would inquire about that later, but there was a more important matter at hand for now.

Tornado Cyclone gets his invitation from a courier. After he reads it, he is quite interested in going to this location. So he takes the shortest route he can think of. After a super long travel time, he walks along the path that's leading to the residence. A few others have reached the area before him, but he never really likes being the first one to arrive anyhow. When he's close enough, he speaks this greeting to everyone gathered. "Howdy! How's everyone doing? I guess we all received the same letter. I am looking forward to solving this mystery with you all!" Little does Tornado know, he's being targeted by a group of assassins. This will be another mystery he'll have to figure out, and in order to fight them off he'll have to get a whole lot stronger than he is now. His current body feels weak, but that's probably because he reanimated in a dead soldier's body to begin with when he was summoned to this world.

Lucian whistled as the wagon pulled him down the street. He glanced at the invitation in his hand, frowning slightly.

"He was a drug dealer then?" Bill asked.

Lucian grunted, "I can't imagine why someone would be with this on the back, Bill."

He grunted, "But-"

"Adventurer, I suspect." Lucian shrugged. "Oh there it is."

"Says alone, don'et?"

Lucian nodded and hopped off at the corner. "I'll see you around Bill, I guess it's good if you wander a bit, get drunk, and all that." He handed Bill a few coins before sauntering down the block until he arrived to where a gaggle of different sorts were assembled.

He looked from each in turn, grunting. "Evening, all. If I didn't know better, this looks like the start to Clue." He shook his head, "I can't imagine how the invitation works. Do we hand it to the owner or just flash it maybe without showing the back? Or should we all not be talking too much before going in?"

Lucian shrugged, pulling a golden apple from his apple, taking a bite and munching on it while he waited.

The invitation itself had been a delightful mystery to the Zentox who had received it. The mere fact that someone in the Ryke had sought him out of all people was intriguing, but he was curious how they had found him amongst the many people of the kingdom. Perhaps his own fame was growing faster than he realized. These thoughts ran through the mind of the Advisor as he stepped down the street. For the evening he had chosen a dark blue traveling cloak that went well with the ebony tunic and trousers with his family crest stitched into the center of the tunic, a crimson mountain on a background of blue bordered by silver thread. At his hip was the dagger that was the symbol of office and it was mirrored on the other side by his satchel. While his stature was not particularly tall the hundred and five troops that accompanied him made a resounding sound as he marched down the street at the head of the column. The polished brass of the buttons of their uniforms was very apparent even in the hours after sunset, the metal a sharp contrast to the crisp black uniforms. They were rather reminiscent of victorian military uniforms and each was clearly studiously maintained. Discipline was evident as well as each man marched in step behind their leader.

Retili considered as he walked the merits of having a carriage. He was clearly moving up in the world as it was and walking at the head of one hundred men was both no longer necessary anyways. It wasn't like he couldn't find a carriage, horse, and driver, he simply hadn't yet. He wondered if it would cause in friction with the Baroness Regula Caelia if he were to begin riding around in a carriage. She certainly hadn't taken to enjoying the fruits of her office yet and he thought that perhaps it would be bad form for him to do so before her. Then again if he waited on her to take advantage of her office he could be waiting a long time. The Zentox pondered this question even as he stepped to the manor. At a word his men formed up outside the manor in a simple blocky formation nearby. Five of them however, the five pikes he favored as a personal guard, followed him as he walked closer to the house. The invitation had said no plus ones, but certainly a woman of such substance would understand that the Zentox would not arrive without his own personal guard in tow. Indeed they could hardly be counted as participants.

As he approached the manor he once again was reminded of his purpose here. He supposed if it was truly dastardly he could in fact just storm the place with his troops. Even a relatively well to do noble with a personal guard would have extreme difficulties dealing with one hundred troops with bayonet and rifle battering down their door, but he figured it would look bad at best if he failed to at least posit some sort of evidence first. Then again, he wondered if he truly should help bring down this noble. Even if they were making a drug to sell to the nobles so what? The nobles were inclined to their own proclivities, and if drugs were their vice who was Retili to stop them? But he could not resist the temptation of another potential power move. Perhaps the shifting of a small piece here could coury favor with the local lord which could have a rippling effect on his reputation.

As he approached Retili realized that he recognized the form of the ice fox. They had met before in at the shrine, but he had neglected to learn the creature's name then. The rest were strangers and as they were already in conversation as he arrived he waited to introduce himself. "I am Retili Loxinofican. It is a pleasure to meet you all." The words were delivered in a measured and professional tone. It was accompanied by a slight bow that was not mirrored by the stony faced soldiers behind him.

Lucian, leaning casually against a nearby wall, observed the gathering with keen interest. His piercing blue eyes moved from the silent march of Mr. Retili's militia to the wide-eyed Kuro Nekomata, and finally to their hostess, Aloe Veradana. Her demeanor, a mix of anxiety and determination, piqued his curiosity.

As Aloe opened her door to the guests, Lucian smoothly made his way inside, his attire of silk and velvet making him stand out among the crowd. He offered Aloe a charming smile, his top hat slightly tipped in greeting. "Lucian Fortuna, at your service, Miss Veradana," he introduced himself, his voice a blend of warmth and confidence. "Your message was quite compelling. I'm eager to hear more about this operation you have in mind."

As he settled into the warm glow of the oil lamps, Lucian's gaze swept across the room, taking note of the other guests and their reactions. He positioned himself strategically, where he could observe everyone while engaging with Aloe.

"An operation that requires such a diverse group must be a fascinating one," Lucian remarked, maintaining a balance between charm and curiosity. "I'm particularly skilled in... let's say, unique problem-solving. How may I, and perhaps my new associates, be of service?"

While Lucian spoke, his mind was already racing, piecing together possible reasons for this gathering. He knew that in such situations, every detail mattered — the tone of Aloe's voice, the expressions of the other guests, the subtle dynamics playing out in the room. This was a game of information and strategy, and Lucian was ready to play his part.

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Lucian listened intently to Aloe's tale, his expression a mix of intrigue and concern. The story of Madame Oakwell's illicit activities and the tragic impact of Dreamlite on Aloe's husband painted a clear picture of the stakes involved. He leaned forward, his blue eyes reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

"I must say, Madame Veradana, your story is both heartbreaking and alarming," Lucian spoke softly, his usual charm subdued by the gravity of Aloe's words. "Madame Oakwell's manipulation of Valeria into Dreamlite, and its effects, especially on your husband... it's a grievous injustice."

He straightened up, his eyes scanning the map of Valeriana Manor laid out before them. "Infiltrating the party and acquiring evidence against Madame Oakwell is a daring endeavor, but one that should be fun. A bit of a gamble, but I've got a few pieces at play already. I'm in."

Lucian's mind was already strategizing, considering the various approaches they could take. "We will need a meticulous plan to navigate this soirée undetected. Acquiring evidence without raising suspicion will require stealth, wit, and perhaps a bit of... theatrical flair." His lips curled into a half-smile, the wheels turning in his head.

"I can assume the guise of a rich do-nothing, blending in with the guests. My skills in observation and persuasion could prove useful in gathering information discreetly," Lucian suggested, his confidence in his abilities evident.

Turning to Kuro, he added, "Ms. Nekomata, your enthusiasm is commendable. We'll need all the help we can get."

Lucian's gaze then returned to Aloe. "Do we have any allies among the guests or staff at the party? Someone who could assist us from the inside?" he inquired, knowing that having someone on the inside could greatly increase their chances of success.

"As for Lord Hyacinth, securing an audience with him before Madame Oakwell does will be crucial. We must present the evidence in a compelling manner to sway his judgment against Dreamlite."

Lucian's demeanor was calm yet determined, his mind already formulating various scenarios and contingency plans. This mission was not only a chance to thwart a grave injustice but also an opportunity for Lucian to demonstrate his cunning and resourcefulness in a high-stakes game of deceit and strategy.

Retili paused on the doorsteps of the house just as he was about to enter the home. He paused briefly then turned around and walked back down the steps. As interesting as the diversion had seemed he thought better of interfering in local politics. If this was not some other noble interfering, or at least not a slightly more powerful or on par of power noble interfering then he wanted no part in it. The blowback that might occur was too great of a risk to his own personal reputation to interfere in what was a drug ring affecting nobles primarily. Stepping back down the steps and considering once again his long hike here Retili considered renting a carriage as he walked down the street and left the area.

Glacier​

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"It is a pleasure to see you again as well... Ms. Eriedeth?" Glacier thought that was her name; they hadn't properly introduced each other before. "Do forgive me... if my recollection is incorrect."

As the home's door opened, Glacier turned his head to Aloe, tilting it slightly. As the group was invited in, he sat on his haunches, quietly but intently listening to Aloe's explanation. "I do not believe that I am... well suited to this operation," Glacier raised one of his forepaws, made solely of ice. "for... obvious, reasons." He let down the paw, his head and ears slightly lowering. "Nor am I currently capable... of what you would expect I should be."

He really shouldn't have been doing this; Glacier was far from inconspicuous, not to mention a quadruped, he'd still yet to harness his nature, and the only magic he was capable of was really only useful for combat. Yet, to just decline and walk away? Glacier couldn't bring himself to do it. "However, I will... do my best to assist."

Glacier wasn't sure how he'd fit into the plan being formed, so he remained silent as the man with a top hat spoke, but he would help all the same; at least the coldness of winter would hopefully keep himself calm.

Tornado listens to these interactions, trying to remember all the names. There's Aloe, the woman hiring us for this, Eriedeth, Kuro, guy in the top hat is Lucian, another guy who may have introduced himself but I forgot, and the ice fox very appropriately named Glacier. I may have missed one or two, but I'll get with them eventually. Overall, a good group. Now isn't the time for talking, the hostess is explaining everything. After she's explained everything, Tornado takes a contemplative posture. Looking around the room, he couldn't see how most of them might not make it into the event. Not everyone looked like, or even happened to be, a noble. If Ms. Aloe wasn't wanted due to her lowly status what chance would the rest of the group have? "Ahem, are we going to pretend to be nobles for the evening? For one, I haven't got a noble status. I don't mean to sound rude, not at all. Is there a part of the plan which will assist in a surefire entry to the event?"

He browses the outfits thoughtfully, thinking long and hard about each one and how they would all best look on him as a Marquess. "From my history studies, a marquess is in the middle of the nobility hierarchy. I think I could pull off the look, I just need to choose each and every piece of clothing with precision, liiiiiiiiiiiiiiiike... that!" After Tornado has finished ruminating over all the possibilities, he believes he has a fantastic start on the makings of a marquess outfit, or at least what a marquess would wear to such a party. He hurries into the changing room, takes anywhere from five to ten minutes fine tuning everything down to the smallest detail, and steps out looking strikingly like a marquess.

In a splendid Marquess noble ensemble, a man bearing a notable resemblance to an iconic figure commands attention with regal and refined presence. The tailored attire, fashioned from opulent materials in deep earthy tones or royal blues, exudes sophistication while tastefully incorporating unique style elements. The doublet is a marvel of design, boasting a high collar and intricate gold or silver trim adorned with subtle symbols. Luxurious silk or velvet drapes gracefully, nodding to both noble elegance and a flowing aesthetic reminiscent of his origins.

Fitted trousers, featuring embroidered details along the sides, seamlessly complement the ensemble. A waistcoat, adorned with delicate beadwork and motifs, adds a touch of refinement, skillfully merging cultural inspiration with noble sophistication. Completing the ensemble are noble accessories — a finely crafted belt, gloves with intricate embroidery, and a silk ascot or cravat. Polished leather boots, both stylish and practical, round out the outfit. Subtle nods to his heritage are woven into the fabric, with motifs representing symbols of personal significance. As this doppelgänger dons the Marquess noble attire, he exudes the air of a dignified leader, embodying a transformative journey from carefree individuality to a noble figure. His striking resemblance to an iconic character is undeniable, adding an air of timeless charisma to his regal presence.

Glacier​

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Glacier gave a nod to Francois. "It is a pleasure to meet you... Mr. Rothæl." "Francois Rothæl", though he'd surely never met this man before, the name itself seemed like something he should somehow recognize. Plus, with the familiar looking flag... a certain culture? No, not just that... a nation? Glacier felt there was a connection to his old memories, but that would mean...

He was snapped out of contemplation as Eriedeth addressed him. "They could do so... though a howl is required to summon them." Glacier responded to her after a couple seconds pause, his head titled to the side. His head tilting back, Glacier finished his thought. "I shall use them... sparingly, but especially if the operation begins to falter."

As Aloe gave them the opportunity to disguise themselves, Glacier contemplated how any outfit would help him. He was bound to look very out of place, no matter what he wore. Glacier didn't like the thought of being a center of attention, nor having his presence questioned. Sneaking around would be his best bet, as Kuro had suggested, but that'd also put more attention on him if he was caught.

However, this train of thought suddenly gave him an idea.

If he was going to look out of place regardless, then he'd might as well lean into it, right? If Glacier could confuse the nobles to the point of bewilderment, then that could work to his advantage, and allow him to slip by more easily.

So, Glacier entered the wardrobe, in search of a particular article of clothing...

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Elegant Glacier​

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It took quite a bit of finagling, but Glacier finally stepped out of the wardrobe, with a single but very obvious difference. "I believe that bafflement... may be a valuable weapon, combined with stealth and speed." He stated, justifying his choice of taking a top hat; though Glacier couldn't stop his tail from definitely only slightly swishing back and forth.

Lucian observed the wardrobe with a discerning eye. The array of costumes was impressive, but he had something particular in mind to blend into the Winter Solstice party seamlessly. He turned to Aloe with a smile. "Your foresight is commendable, Madame Veradana. However, I have a certain... flair for fashion that I prefer to maintain."

He stepped aside, focusing his mind and whispering a quiet incantation. A shimmering portal opened beside him, revealing a glimpse into a lavish room. From this pocket dimension emerged Cedric, Lucian's impeccably dressed butler.

"Cedric, my good man, it's time we prepare for a noble charade. We need attire that screams wealth and taste but doesn't attract undue attention. Something befitting a lord of leisure and gambling," Lucian instructed, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

Cedric bowed slightly, "Right away, Master Lucian. I believe I have just the ensemble in mind." He disappeared back into the portal, only to reemerge moments later with a selection of garments.

The outfit was a masterful blend of elegance and subtlety - a deep emerald velvet jacket paired with a black silk shirt, adorned with intricate but understated gold embroidery. The ensemble was completed with tailored black trousers and polished leather boots. Accessories included a tasteful signet ring and a pocket watch, adding an air of aristocracy.

Lucian examined the outfit with approval. "Perfect, Cedric. This will allow me to blend in among the nobles while retaining my unique charm." He quickly changed into the costume, each piece fitting him as if it were made for this very occasion.

Once dressed, Lucian turned to the group, his transformation into a convincing noble complete. "I believe this should suffice. As a lord, I'll have better access to the manor's restricted areas if warrented; however, the better part of any illusion is in misdirection. To gather the necessary evidence, we will need to distract as much as find."

He then addressed Kuro, "Ms. Nekomata, your decision to use your burgeoning status is wise. We can cover more ground and gather more information with varied approaches. And as for the rest of you," Lucian's gaze swept across the group, "Well done choosing your disguises wisely. Tonight, we play a game of masks and shadows."

With a final nod to Aloe, Lucian prepared to embark on the mission, his mind already plotting moves and countermoves in the intricate dance of espionage they were about to undertake.

Glacier​

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Glacier had some difficulty entering the carriage, and the subsequent ride wasn't exactly smooth, but they arrived at the manor soon enough. As the group entered, Glacier couldn't help but be impressed by the quite beautiful architecture of the room, as well as the pleasant music. Though his attention was quickly brought to the two subjects of their mission: Oakwell & Hyacinth. Glacier patiently listened to the speech, though his curiosity was piqued by this "Mugwort".

When the others planned their moves, Glacier contemplated his own course of action; though he immediately knew that the greenhouse was not where he wanted to be, so he decided not to join Eriedeth. "The flowerbeds is where I shall be... enjoying the cold, winter night weather." Glacier chimed in after a moment, the reasoning both a cover for anyone overhearing, and the outright truth. "I wish you all luck... in your endeavors." With that, Glacier made his way outside of the building, and towards the flowerbeds.

Lucian turned to Kuro with a twinkle in his eye, his charming smile widening. "Ah, Ms. Nekomata, ambition suits you well," he remarked, his voice carrying a playful tone. "A portal to one's wardrobe is a luxury that no one should have to go without." With a flourish of one hand, Lucian materialized a jeweled bracelet to complement Kuro's outfit. "A small gift, although you need no help pulling off that outfit."

He adjusted his jacket with a flourish, the velvet catching the light just so. "As for the party, I'm sure Madame Veradana will inform us of the perfect moment to make our grand entrance. Timing, after all, is everything. Whether it's making a dramatic appearance at a soiree or placing the winning bet at the gambling table."

His eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. "Tonight, we shall not only attend a party but also play a high-stakes game where the prize is justice itself. And I must say, I do relish the thought of outwitting Madame Oakwell at her own game."

Lucian's demeanor exuded confidence and excitement, his presence commanding yet approachable, a testament to his charismatic and flamboyant nature. He was ready to take on the challenges of the evening, turning every obstacle into an opportunity to showcase his shrewdness and cunning.


The comment at first caught him off guard. It was like sharing a taxi back home, in his other life. He was tempted to let that other life creep into the conversation.

Lucian listened to Aloe's plan, his expression reflecting approval. "A wise precaution, Madame Veradana," he commended. "An unmarked Lyft is the perfect ruse for our arrival. It provides the necessary anonymity while still allowing us the guise of casual guests."

He rose gracefully, his eyes momentarily meeting Kuro's with an understanding nod. "Indeed, Ms. Nekomata, this is an opportunity not to be missed. The Winter Solstice party at Valeriana Manor will be a spectacle of Azuran nobility, and we shall be right in the midst of it. A perfect setting for both pleasure and intrigue."

As Kuro inspected the carriage from the window, Lucian joined her side, gazing out with a contemplative look. "Appearances can be deceiving, can't they? A modest carriage for a night of opulent deceit." His voice held a hint of amusement. "Tonight we are actors on a grand stage. Every gesture, every word, must be part of our masquerade. Not unlike how most rich act on a daily basis."

With a final check of his attire and a confident stride, Lucian allowed the lady's to board the carriage force before waltzing behind them. His mind was already calculating the potential challenges and dynamics they would encounter, his shrewd and cunning nature fully engaged for the task ahead.


Lucian opened his mouth as Aloe made herself into a coach person. Bill could have done the job quite well, but he shrugged. He'd played a similar ruse recently, and he wouldn't be so crass as to call her out on it.

"I have no doubt you exceed at all your pursuits," He said with a cheer. He watched Aloe contemplatively, wondering if perhaps she would be open to entering his own employee on a more permanent basis. Something to explore when this masquerade was over.


As Lucian stepped out of the carriage, his eyes immediately sought out the key figures in the crowd. He adjusted the cuff of his jacket, a subtle gesture to center himself in this new stage of opulence and intrigue.

Surveying the scene, he whispered to his companions, "There she is, Madame Oakwell, the puppeteer of this grand masquerade. And Lord Hyacinth, our key to unraveling her strings." His voice was low but carried the weight of his determination.

With a confident gait, Lucian approached the gathering of nobles. His charm radiated effortlessly, his presence seamlessly blending with the elite crowd. He navigated through the guests, a smile here, a nod there, his demeanor both engaging and unobtrusive.

As he drew nearer to Madame Oakwell and Lord Hyacinth, Lucian's keen observational skills came into play. He carefully noted their mannerisms, the dynamics of their interaction, seeking any clue that might aid their mission.

"Madame Oakwell," Lucian greeted her with a respectful bow, his voice warm yet measured. "Your reputation as a gracious host precedes you. This celebration is a true testament to your exquisite taste." His compliment was genuine yet strategic, a ploy to gauge her response.

Turning to Lord Hyacinth, Lucian continued, "And Lord Hyacinth, reading of your campaigns was master class in military strategy. I wonder if I might engage you in a game or a smoke later in the evening?" He gestured subtly to the medals, acknowledging the Lord's military past, a move designed to build rapport. "Ah, but I having meet Madame Oakwell, I see how impossible it would be to tear you away from her company."

Lucian's every word and gesture were calculated, part of the intricate dance of social maneuvering. He knew that to expose Madame Oakwell's nefarious dealings, they needed to play their parts flawlessly, laying the groundwork for uncovering the truth behind Dreamlite.

He gave a little bow, departing their company and wandering about the central lobby meeting and greeting random people as a social butterfly might. Finally, he made his way back casually to the group he'd come with.


Lucian rejoined the group, his expression a mix of focus and subtle excitement. He arched his eyebrow, was it indeed the best choice to wander off separately or to pair off so they could distract attention and play off each other? Lucian leaned towards the latter. "Dividing our efforts can be a prudent strategy. This manor holds many secrets, and we must be thorough yet discreet in uncovering them. However," he flashed a hand while moving his other hand, "Often it's best to pair so one hand may distract while the other performs the trick."

He glanced around, taking in the layout of the manor and the positioning of the guests and staff. "I'll make my way to the ballroom and the adjoining smoking parlor. High-profile areas like these are often ripe with overheard conversations and unguarded remarks. Plus, it allows me to keep an eye on Madame Oakwell and Lord Hyacinth. Understanding their dynamics could prove crucial."

Lucian then addressed the others with a confident and commanding tone. "If anyone finds themselves in a precarious situation, use coded phrases to signal for assistance. Let's say, 'What a lovely evening for a stroll in the gardens,' as an indication of needing help."


"Ah, it would be a delight to join you. Let's waltz through the ballroom and make our way to the smoking balcony. I have quite a few tobaccos I'd like to try out. Perhaps Madame has a few more exotic ones to sample as well."

Tornado exits the carriage with the grace and poise of a marquess. He scans the crowd outside the house. It was interesting how everyone arrived at once, but unlike commoners, the nobles have no problem shuffling into the building with ease and efficiency. The first thing he will do is talk to those very obviously gossiping maids. Those are the people who see and hear just about everything that goes on in noble life. When Madame Oakwell concludes her opening welcome, Tornado makes his way casually but surely to the corner where the maids are. Every so often he stops one of the staff to make it look like he's having a good time enjoying the food and drinks, which is actually true. Madame Oakwell spared no expense tonight, it was on display literally everywhere. A few minutes later he arrives in front of the maids, giving his best impression of a regal marquess smile. "Good evening ladies. I couldn't help but notice you two from across the room. Do you have a few minutes to spare to talk to a humble marquess?"