CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 28, 2022 21:00:01 GMT -5
The housing district of Sol City is generally peaceful with its beautiful golden abodes nestled between meticulously manicured gardens and the every watchful eye of the local guard. Those who live protected by the encircling walls tend to be mild mannered, everyday hardworking, earnest folk without a care in the world. After all, the monarchy and the military keeps them safe, what could they possibly have to fret about? They can go about their days with smiles on their faces, knowing that they can return to a cozy home and warm meal. Maybe they feel confident enough to boast to their neighbors of a milestone in their life and feel the urge to throw a party in celebration. Pride. Pride is an opportunity for those who are keen enough to see it.
A minor noble family, the Meadowblooms, are such an opportunity. The elven family had rose to their status over the course a few generations, owning a very successful brewing business that specialized in fruity ciders. They owned many orchards, several breweries, and even a number of sailing vessels to ship their products abroad. The current head of the family, Sir Virion Meadowbloom, is an ambitious man. Perhaps too ambitious. Having gained an inflated ego from the success of his forefathers, he is known for throwing elaborate public soirees for the community as a sort of "charity" event. But really, it's just to show off his own success and wealth to a somewhat captive audience.
Over the past few weeks, there have been slanderous rumors that he has been using his connections, resources, and repute to get away with smuggling more illicit contraband under the noses of the local authorities. Some claim that the orchards and breweries have become fronts for this shadier business, however Virion has denied this aggressively at every opportunity. At the peak of the rumor's popularity, some guards did conduct an investigation of his breweries and found nothing. This seemed to prove that the rumors were just talk and possibly were started by jealous neighbors or business competitors.
To celebrate his proven innocence, Virion is throwing one of the largest block parties yet. He has spared no expense and it is certain to boost his reputation amongst higher class nobility should things go off without a hitch. The party will center around his own abode in the front courtyard where there will be food, music, and dancing. Since the party is mostly for those who live in the community, it would be hard for an outsider to simply walk in unnoticed. Virion however has extended invitations to the finest of entertainers, and it just so happens that one of those invitations disappeared from the delivery boy's hands when he got distracted by a strange sound on his way to deliver them.
Zarius had been scoping out the home for some time now. A noble being accused of smuggling contraband was too good of a scandal to let just fizzle out. Just because the guards had not found anything at the breweries does not mean that there wasn't a chance the rumors could have held some merit. Plus, due to his status, the guards did not bother to search his house which could easily be hiding any number of incriminating documents or goods. It wouldn't be the first time an upstanding member of society had a closet full of skeletons after all.
As the delivery boy had made his way down the street, Zarius carefully followed and then, with a wave of his hand, made the sound of something clatter loudly down the street just as he passed by. He managed to slip one of the envelopes out of his hand and quickly made himself scarce before the boy noticed.
Standing out of sight, he peels up the wax seal of the envelope and carefully reads over the invitation. It is addressed to one "Cantio von Lumen" who is a very popular violinist in Sol City if memory serves correct. A fellow tiefling if what he has heard around the taverns is accurate. Well, Zarius was no mail thief, so it would only make sense to ensure the letter made it to its intended recipient. He tucks the letter into his satchel and starts off to locate this performer and with any luck convince them to let him tag along.
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Sept 28, 2022 22:41:32 GMT -5
This was an awful idea.
He was only supposed to be in Sol City for a matter of days to tie up a couple of loose favours; so how did he end up getting roped into playing for one of Virion Meadowbloom's celebrations!? Now, he has to push back the return ferry trip to the Moonglades— and the next one is delayed on account of a prediction for bad weather— so, that's extra time in Sol City that he just really doesn't need to spend here. More time in Sol City means more time he could run into people he just doesn't need to see— like old friends, or mentors, or even worse...
His parents.
His stomach back-flips with anxiety at the mere thought of glimpsing them, even by accident. Yes, the worst part of this whole situation is that his family knew Virion Meadowbloom; quite well, actually! While his own interactions with the Meadowblooms were limited, his father was quite the fan of their ciders; and no, they were not the best of friends, but he recalls his father having only praise for a man Cantio found to be quite... well...
Unbearable, really.
So, when Cantio was approached by a gleefully drunk Virion Meadowbloom in the higher-end, upper-floor of the Brass Dragon a few nights ago after a performance— to say he was sweating under the mask would be the understatement of the century. The elven man wasted no time in flaunting something about an investigation— oh, how well it had gone! So well, in fact, that he's throwing a party! And he wants him to play, and what an honour it would be for Cantio von Lumen to play for the esteemed Virion Meadowbloom's lavish gala.
Thank goodness he didn't realize who he was talking to; but then again, he's not sure Meadowbloom knew he even existed back then.
Frankly, he wouldn't even think twice about skipping this party, and the risks it bears to him, if it weren't for the absolutely absurd promise of a hefty payment; after all, busking only gets him so far. Will he lose a shred of his dignity, knowing that he caved to playing for a haughty nobleman like Virion Meadowbloom? Yes. Will he risk meeting old family and friends, all who could recognize him? Also yes. Will he be able to buy his ferry tickets, pay off a debt to a dwarf captain, and travel with ease for at least a month afterwards? If Virion Meadowbloom keeps to his word, maybe.
Cantio puts back the rest of his cider and rum in a swift gulp, and sets the mug back onto his table; the Tiefling has kept to himself in the tavern for most of his time in Sol City. Minus a few performances, of course— favours for people he's met on his travels — one of which earned him the very performance he's agonizing over internally at this very moment...
Ah... the cruel irony.
Though his skin is already a pale red, the young man is already flushed from the alcohol; and, chin propped up against one upturned palm, he waves at the nearest barmaid to catch her attention. She nods at him, offering a gesture of, 'One Moment,' while she tends to some other patron. He breathes a sigh, lowering his hand, and peeking around the establishment at the other patrons.
Virion Meadowbloom had promised to send him an invitation— formal proof of being welcomed to the party— but to be quite honest, he's hoping the letter gets lost in the mail.
Or, maybe Meadowbloom was too drunk to remember to even send one!
Yes, that would be ideal, actually... He's hoping for that.
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 28, 2022 23:15:30 GMT -5
It didn't take long for Zarius to learn of where the famous violinist was staying. The fair folk of Sol City love their gossip after all and it seemed that many a young maiden had already fallen for the mysterious masked performer. Zarius managed to keep a straight face while talking to these hopeless romantics, but he had to resist rolling his eyes. Maybe a bard was not the best choice of potential ally after all. He pushed those thoughts away as he had few better options aside from trying to just sneak in unseen. Which was possible, but it would be more of a hassle to avoid the many eyes that would be present at the party than to just walk around as someone welcomed at the event.
On his way to the tavern a local had said Cantio was staying at, he ran through talking points in his head. What was the best way to approach this conversation? Just because he's delivering the real invitation, signature and all, does not mean this performer would even be able to get him in. And why would they be willing to do that in the first place? If he knew more about this performer perhaps he would have more leverage in the conversation, but much of what he has managed to gather on him is not particularly useful. No family history, no criminal history, no political connections. As far as he could tell, this performer was a nobody before he put on a mask and started capturing the hearts of audiences across the lands.
Briefly, he thinks about how it might have been easier to convince this bard if he could pose as one of his lovestruck fans. He snickers at the absurdity of that idea. No. Even he could not pull off such a deception. Bards, after all, were some of his least favorite people. Perhaps that was because they drew too much attention to themselves and seemed to lavish in their fame but do very little with what power it brings. Wasted potential.
Arriving at the tavern, he takes a breath and steps past the door's threshold and looks around. How hard could it be to pick out a flamboyant red tiefling out from amongst the common folk of Sol City? Not hard at all it turns out as he quickly spots the famed performer slumped at a table in the corner. He approaches the table and ignores any side glances he receives from the other patrons. He would have preferred to have met with this individual in a less public space, but beggars can't be choosers.
"Excuse me," he begins. "Are you Cantio von Lumen? I have a letter from Sir Virion Meadowblooms for you." He fetches the letter from the satchel at his side and holds it out to him. He had ensured the wax seal wasn't broken from him opening it earlier and had resealed it the best he could. There is a flush to the younger tiefling's complexion, hopefully he is inebriated enough not to notice.
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Sept 29, 2022 11:29:57 GMT -5
... Actually, what would be the consequences of just up and leaving on the next ferry out of town? Putting this whole trip behind him, and moving on? One little black mark on his name? It's not like he's out here for the fame and glory; but regardless, he would hate to be thought of as an unreliable musician... and someone with Virion Meadowbloom's influence could absolutely shatter his persona if he took it personally enough... He grimaces slightly at the thought; actually, blowing off Virion Meadowbloom might be a bad idea if he wants to keep up his appearances; he seems like the type of man who would take it a little too personally. "Excuse me," "Ah—" Cantio's shoulders jump, a hand moving to his chest with a sharp inhale; clearly startled by the appearance of a Tiefling he hadn't even seen come in. He blinks a few times, clearing his throat as the young man addresses him by name. "I am, who—?" he trails off, his expression falling somewhat when the Tiefling remarks he's received an invitation from Sir Virion Meadowbloom; he smiles politely at the man after a brief second of simply looking at the offered letter, and takes it. "Ah... Right, of course. Thank you— one second, please."
He leans back in his chair after taking the letter and sets it on the table in front of him, unopened; the thought that, perhaps, it could have been tampered with never once enters his mind. After all, why would anyone bother? Before making any move to open it, the Tiefling slips a coin purse from his pocket; he doesn't have much on him, but he'd be remiss to let the delivery boy walk away empty handed after delivering, what he assumes, is far too many invitations for a noble's party.
"For your time," he remarks, offering him a tip; the rest, he'll keep for his room and board at the tavern. "Meadowbloom must have you running all over the city delivering these things, huh? I won't hold you up." He gives the delivery boy a once over— but he doesn't seem much like a delivery boy, actually— he doesn't see another letter aside from his own on his person. It's also a bit odd to see another Tiefling— Sol City, although varied and diverse— is still not known for its high population. Cantio, himself, had met few and far between when he lived here— and never this one in particular.
Then again, it's been a few years since he's properly occupied Sol City.
So, no red flags are raised; he is utterly clueless to the stranger in the tavern. "Or, maybe I was your last drop?" He breathes a soft laugh, waiting for him to take or deny the coin, before he leans back in his chair to open his letter; it pops open a little easier than he expected, but he doesn't seem suspicious of it in the slightest.
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 29, 2022 12:25:47 GMT -5
Zarius hadn't meant to startle Cantio when he interrupted his drinking, he had made sure to approach directly and he wasn't exactly one to blend in with the current crowd found in this tavern. Zarius eyes Cantio a bit after he has recomposed himself. He's oddly skittish for a performer. He's younger than expected too, younger than Zarius. A musical protégé most likely. How fortunate to be born with talent. He can't help but silently judge. It was a bad habit of his that he picked up from his upbringing. It only really extended to his own kind...and bards if he was to be honest.
He hands over the letter with no fuss and waits as the violinist searches for coin, resting his weight back on one leg. He isn't interested in it, but chooses not to stop him for the chance to observe. He could see why so many young fans were taken with him. His skin wasn't as hellish red as many of their kind which means he actually could blend in a little better with the fair folk, especially if he took the time to cover his horns and hide his tail. His outfit was striking, not garish, and while eye-catching, it was still functional as travel attire.
Zarius watches Cantio's hands as he fiddles with the coin purse. Musicians always had delicate, dexterous hands. They were instruments of the trade after all, a stark difference to the hardened weapons Zarius had turned his own into.
While waiting, something was bugging him, like an itch at the back of his mind. Was it familiarity? Certainly not, he doesn't recall having ever met Cantio before and Zarius prided himself on remembering even the smallest details. There was just this feeling that something was off, he just couldn't quite pinpoint what yet.
When Cantio addresses him and offers him payment, he puts on a friendly smile. "You were the last, yes. I appreciate your generosity, sir, but I will have to decline." He pauses as Cantio reads over the letter. The performer hadn't seemed to notice anything odd about the seal.
After giving him a moment to glance through the page, he speaks again. "Actually, I am quite the fan of yours. I have heard of tales of your performances far beyond these shores. It was surprising to learn that you were in town."
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Sept 29, 2022 13:52:13 GMT -5
He hums his acknowledgement when Zarius denies the coin and moves to pocket it again— not going through the trouble of fumbling around in his coin purse once more— with the letter in his opposite hand keeping him busy. "If you're done then, you're more than welcome to have a seat." he offers instead, gesturing to the empty table in front of him as he scans through the page; the verbiage is fluffy, fancy, and most likely not written personally by Meadowbloom. "Or be on your way, whatever works for you; thank you, anyways."
It's not the first time Cantio has dealt with a performance for a noble's party such as this one; he's performed for a few by now, actually. Some are tolerable, others are... less tolerable. However... it is the first time he's dealt with one in his hometown, which... makes this all the worse for him, given the familiarity with Sol City's middle and upper class. Mask or not, he feels a looming anxiety in the pit of his stomach.
He looks up with only his eyes when the stranger speaks again; the tiefling has neither left, nor taken a seat. "Hm?" Cantio blinks as Zarius regards being a fan of his, to which, the performer looks a bit embarrassed. He laughs sheepishly beneath the mask. "Oh— oh, thank you!" He offers him a polite, but warm smile; it's still a bit unusual for him when others recognize him.
He's been on the road for years now, playing wherever he may... but only recently has his name been bubbling forth as a musician of any kind of value. Whether by word of mouth, or by witnessing one of his performances; he's slowly making a name for himself. One which is, well... exclusively his, he hopes. No attachment to his past, nor his parents, nor his mistakes.
He hasn't decided whether it's a good or bad thing just yet.
There's a comfort that comes with anonymity for him; and even though he wears a mask, it's started to become recognizable. Hearing his name, whether by chance or by recognition, is odd.
He wonders, distantly, if it's time for a change of wardrobe.
"You're very kind. I don't come to Sol City as often as I wish I could," He avoids it like the plague, actually. "But I met a few individuals on my travels, who I owed a performance to— they finally brought me in. I'm afraid I've finished most of those, except for..." He looks back at the letter, slowly setting the open page on the table in front of him. He folds his hands together over-top it, looking up at Zarius with a content sway of his furred tail; he doesn't bring up the party. "Have we met, before?" He cocks his head, a polite smile still appearing as his default expression. "I have traveled and played in many places, so you'll have to forgive me if my memory is failing me."
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 29, 2022 15:02:30 GMT -5
Ah, he started talking all on his own. That's good. Zarius takes a seat across from him now that it was evident that Cantio would not shoo him off after receiving the letter. Just as well, their interaction has caught the curious glances of a few patrons. While Zarius is aware of them, he does not mind them. He has learned in his years that authorities tend to dismiss bar gossip in most cases unless there are very specific circumstances. He also wants to keep his focus on Cantio. His body language, his choice of words, every little twitch and glance. Anything he could glean from their newly budding conversation.
Well, conversation may not be the right word. No, he's aiming for idle unassuming chit chat. It's easier to control the direction of chit chat since it seems low stakes to most, and he knows well how to direct it to the point where whoever he is conversing with doesn't realize how much they have actually shared. This bard was a perfect mark, he wasn't as guarded as others he has had to patiently weasel a conversation out of. Still, he had to use caution. While the liquor may have loosened his lips, one slip up could draw suspicion or questions he didn't feel inclined to answer.
Zarius listens intently to his words, picking apart every detail in his head. Cantio mentions repaying favors and Zarius catches his glance towards the letter as he speaks. So, the bard was likely going to leave after the performance at the party and not linger long afterwards. That works out nicely. If Zarius did find evidence incriminating the Meadowblooms, then it was possible that he would have to discretely remove it from the premises in order to deliver it to the appropriate hands. Should that theft be uncovered, the good Sir Virion may very well launch an investigation of his own of all those who were in attendance. Particularly the performers, and more likely the tieflings given the prejudice. Zarius was confident in his ability to disappear, but a rising star such as Cantio may have a harder time. If Cantio was questioned, he would have no reason to lie to the authorities about this interaction. People tend not to like learning that they were used or tricked.
Zarius shakes his head in response to Cantio's question. "No, sir. I do not believe we have ever met." He leans forward and lowers his voice a bit with a grin. "I have however heard your violin playing is comparable to no other. Is it true that your violin was crafted from the wood of a dryad's tree and the hair of a mermaid?" There was no such rumor, but it was something to keep the conversation going naturally. He needed to bide his time and wait for the opportune moment. It was all a dance, and he intended to lead.
At this point, the barmaid comes around to refill Cantio's glass. Perfect timing. She looks at Zarius and asks quietly, "Anything for you?"
"No, thank you." He replies and she moves on to another table waiting on service.
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Sept 29, 2022 16:21:08 GMT -5
Cantio flicks his tail, blinking as Zarius takes a seat across from him; he denies having ever met him, but then... claiming to be a fan is a little weird, isn't it? Does he... know someone who saw a performance of his? He cocks his head at Zarius from across the table, but before he can entertain his line of thought any further, he asks a question so absurd that the bard chokes on a laugh. He covers his mouth with a hand afterwards and clears his throat, smiling apologetically.
"I'm so sorry— no, no... Of course not— who in the world told you that?" he looks genuinely curious— as curious as a masked man can be— as he looks at Zarius. "There's nothing special about my violin; it's rosewood, like many others. Crafted by a very kind old man I met in King's Valley." It's also his third violin, but he won't point that out. The first had been smashed over a gnoll's head; and the second had been split in half by a stalagmite after a fall into a cavern. "I hate to disappoint; it's a good quality violin, but nothing magical... nothing like that."
He shakes his head, his smile growing sheepish beneath the mask. "I've spent my entire life, ever since I could hold a bow, working on my craft; but to hear it spoken of like magic is quite flattering." Maybe even a little insulting in a different key, given how much of a strain his studies were in his youth; it's not like he makes up for a lack of skill with a magic instrument, but... he doubts he meant it that way. Still, it's... odd to hear his music spoken of like such.
He's never heard any such praise before, and it's a little... unusual.
He is ultimately distracted by the return of the barmaid, however, before he can further that train of thought. "Thank you," he notes, nodding as she wanders off to service another table. Cantio lifts his glass, taking a sip as he looks back at the letter beneath the cage of his fingers; he swallows, looking back at Zarius as he sets his mug down. "Are you a local to Sol City, then? I imagine you might be, if you're working under the Meadowbloom family... But please, do correct me if I'm wrong, I... oh." Cantio perks up, as if suddenly remembering something.
He offers the other man a lopsided, apologetic smile.
"I'm so sorry, I haven't even asked for your name, have I? I suppose you already know me, but; Cantio von Lumen; you can just call me Cantio. It's nice to make your acquaintance."
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 29, 2022 17:27:25 GMT -5
Zarius notices the flicking tail, the head tilt, the curious look, the sheepish smile. He's not as drunk as he thought, and he's more perceptive too boot. This would be harder than he had hoped, but things were still going well so far. The ludicrous lie had worked well and the barmaid's timing couldn't be better.
"No, no, my apologies, I should have introduced myself sooner. My name is Zarius and I am truly humbled to make your acquaintance." He sits back in his chair with a smile. "I am not a local, actually. I am a traveler and I picked up this letter by happenstance." This next part of his lie would be risky, but he always had a way of convincing people that he spoke the truth. But first he had to dance around the subject a bit to make it seem more genuine.
"If that rumor isn't true then that only speaks greater volumes of your talent and the years of practice." He pauses and gets a thoughtful expression, then holds his fingers up and presses the tips together. "Correct me if I am wrong, but I heard that the tips of musician's fingertips toughen up quite a bit from playing stringed instruments." It was a novel thought, sometimes those help keep the conversation casual.
"Admittedly, I have no musical talent myself, so I cannot begin to imagine what it must be like living a life of creativity and adoration." His eyes drop to the table, and the smiling expression he has maintained so far grows a little sadder. "Our kind...some people are not too welcoming of, so it really is an inspiration to know that there are those of us out there who are proving we can be civil."
He takes a breath and breaks eye contact, the smile falls away. "The truth is, Sir Meadowbloom actually did not hire me for this task, which is part of why I could not accept any of your coin. I found the letter on the street. I believe that whoever was responsible for delivering it must have dropped it by accident. I merely recognized the family seal and your name is on the envelope, so I delivered it here in case it was of urgent importance. I do apologize for the confusion and hope I have not overstepped."
His golden eyes meet Cantio's. The key to a good lie was to sprinkle truth within it. Of course there was a risk, but if things went wrong here he would come up with a different plan. He hadn't yet shown all his cards or asked for anything to raise suspicion. Zarius is curious to see how Cantio will respond to the whole charade, but also genuinely curious about how he responds to the sentiment he added. Some tieflings do feel a sense of kinship with one another, while others hold resentment due to the prejudice against them. It will be good to know which side Cantio belongs to as it may provide leverage for the strange request he has of the bard.
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Sept 29, 2022 19:22:52 GMT -5
"It's nice to meet you as well," Cantio agrees with a warm smile, nodding as Zarius introduces himself; although, he admits to being a traveler, which is not entirely what he had expected. "Oh?" He blinks, taking another sip of his drink as Zarius continues— mentioning his years of practice, and the aftermath of so many years of practice. He nods slightly, swallowing his mouthful before he speaks. "Mm." he hums in agreement, tilting his palm up; he does, indeed, have the calloused fingertips of a practiced musician. "It's painful at first, when you start; with too much practice, you get blisters. Sometimes they bleed. Over time, though, you get used to it."
He recalls far too well the motions of nursing his small hands in his earliest years; of herbal remedies and wraps that his father would put on his fingers to encourage him to play through it. His mother used to poke fun at how he cried before each practice session; but, he was also no more than a toddler at the time.
The thoughts bring forth something bitter; and for only a moment, his smile disappears; but reappears upon hearing Zarius' voice. He remains polite and courteous, as he always tries to be; now is not a time to reminisce, and to be honest... he's quite tired of it— eager to leave Sol City. "The adoration is nice, I suppose," he laughs softly, "But, it can be a bit much to handle... The creativity it offers, though?" There's a glitter behind Cantio's eyes; a genuine love for his craft. "...being able to tell so many stories, without a single word? To move people, or inspire?" His tail sways in content undulation. "That's a real reward, in and of itself."
Zarius' next words are a bit melancholic, to which Cantio blinks at him, a small frown on his face.
"Mm... some will always judge, no matter the case; and, no matter your accomplishments." he submits, breathing a sigh in return; he was, admittedly, born into a more privileged position than most... but his status as the son of talented musicians still meant he earned gossip and ire, in judgement of his lineage; he had higher expectations to reach. His mother had been privy to the same.
He looks to Zarius, brows furrowing slightly as the man's smile falls away, and he tells him a small tale— a tale of how he came to join him at the table, and how he does not actually work for Meadowbloom. Cantio listens respectfully, his face remaining neutral while Zarius apologizes; Cantio's golden gaze meets his; but a few things don't add up.
If he was never a courier, why did he pretend to be one? Or, maybe he simply felt too awkward to correct him? Or, maybe Cantio is finding inconsistencies where there is none...?
But then, how did he find him here at the Brass Dragon?
Do that many people know where he is? He doesn't recall the envelope being labelled with an address.
He blinks, breaking eye contact with Zarius; he looks towards the door for a moment.
He's smiling again when he looks back. "I see." he remarks, his voice as cheerful as it had been prior; although, he does kind of wish that Zarius had just left it on the street. "It's very kind of you to take it upon yourself to hunt down a complete stranger just to deliver their lost letter. You didn't need to go so out of your way to do so, but I appreciate your efforts." The bard dips his head gratefully to Zarius, before looking back with an apologetic smile. He breathes a soft laugh. "I'm sorry for assuming that you must have been a courier; I hope none of my comments might have offended you."
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Sept 29, 2022 22:50:26 GMT -5
"It's painful at first, when you start; with too much practice, you get blisters. Sometimes they bleed. Over time, though, you get used to it."
Cantio's words give him pause. He had to admit, he had possibly misjudged him. He had expected a boastful playboy living it up in one of the safest and richest nations in the realm. He was still a bard, but he clearly understood what it meant to dedicate ones life to a craft and the pains that dedication can bring. He grips his own fists under the table, brief memories of late nights in those darkened rooms and the blood splatters across the walls.
As Cantio's eyes glitter with inspiration and light as he speaks of the rewards his performances reap, Zarius' eyes darken at the consequences of of his own deeds. While he acknowledges that they may not be so different in their passion for their choice of work, it was still clear that they came from completely different worlds.
The way he spoke, the cadence, tone, and careful choice of words. He may have caught him off guard earlier, but this tiefling was practiced at casual conversation in a way that reminded him of some of the nobility he had the displeasure of eavesdropping on. Any other person might feel jealous or resentful of someone who shines so brightly with passion and grace, but not him. He had always been most comfortable with in the dark.
The reactions from Cantio aren't quite what he had wanted. It didn't appear that he felt any particular way about the way their kind were misjudged. Well, to each their own. If he was being honest with himself, he didn't feel one way about it in the grand scheme of things. He only really cared about how people treated him specifically. Spite was a great motivator.
That nagging feeling still was getting to him. Maybe the tiefling was catching on to his ruse. Did he slip up somewhere? He didn't think so. Admittedly, he had deviated from his regular story, but that was in case he needed something to fall back on. He was sure he had kept things relatively close to the truth without implicating himself in anything more than necessary.
He snaps out of his overanalyzing when Cantio breaks eye contact. What had he noticed? The urge to glance over his shoulder to check was overwhelming, but he pushed those urges to the side. It was his turn to play a card in their little talking game.
"I will admit, I delivered this to you for selfish reasons."
He takes a breath and sits forward in his chair with his arms resting on the table. "You mentioned that you still owe someone a performance, and I assume that someone is the Meadowbloom family. Everyone has been talking about the gala and how they have spared no expense."
Pausing for a moment, he folds his hands in front of him and looks Cantio directly. "I know that this is a lot to ask, but would you allow me to accompany you to the event?"
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Oct 2, 2022 15:56:25 GMT -5
"I will admit, I delivered this to you for selfish reasons."Cantio looks at Zarius, blinking slowly as he speaks. " O-oh?" he asks, his tone a bit quizzical; he's, perhaps, a bit disappointed to learn that the other Tiefling's kindness comes forth in the form of a favour, but it is what it is. The young man furrows his brows beneath the mask, feeling a tiny uncertainty rise within the confines of his chest. Zarius leans forwards after taking a breath and Cantio meets him in eye contact once more as he regards the aforementioned performances that he has left. He nods his acknowledgement, tilting his head as Zarius continues— eventually, he ends in a polite request to allow him to accompany him to the Meadowbloom's Gala. " Hm? Accompany me to the gala?" he repeats, as though he hadn't heard the request at first. Oh, that's actually... well, to be fair, he didn't know what Zarius was about to ask him— but an invitation to the gala seems tame, all things considered. It makes sense to him: Zarius mentioned that everyone's been talking about the gala; how no expense had been spared; and if what he'd said earlier was true, maybe he just wanted to catch a performance or something along those lines? That feels embarrassing to assume, actually: Cantio is still relatively a nobody as far as he's concerned, so to imagine someone wants to come to a party just to catch him performing? That feels ridiculous, even if Zarius was incredbily flattering earlier. He's also been not entirely honest to a degree, too, so... was he lying about that part? He clears his throat, taking a sip of his drink to waive away the heat of embarrassment that comes with the thought that he might have been flattered earlier on nothing in order to get into a fancy party held by a noble. That feels awfully awkward. He's not that important. " Well..." he remarks as he sets down his mug; it clinks against the table; and he looks down at the invitation in front of him. He has no doubt that he probably could get Zarius into the party; it's not uncommon for performers to bring in a plus one, even if it's not marked. He had brought him the letter, too, albeit perhaps not out of good faith. " ... I might be able to convince them to let you come in as a plus one." He leans forwards on the table, propping his chin against both of his upturned palms as he looks at Zarius. " The Meadowblooms have always thrown extravagant galas, but—" he hesitates, trying to calculate the right words; Zarius has already mentioned he doesn't work for them, so he can get away with a little gossip. He lowers his voice, "—to be honest, the Meadowblooms and much of their company are some of the most... unpleasant kinds of nobles." He sways his tail with a mild annoyance, whatever small blip of realizations he'd had earlier, seems to have led him into a bit of natural gossip for the Meadowblooms. "Their galas are good to enjoy fancy food and drinks, or make connections with the nobles, but even that is work. They kinda... flock to the same types of people, the Meadowblooms." Cantio sighs, tilting his head to favour his right palm. "I'd hate for you to hear all about this fancy gala and then have a bad time, y'know? If it's good company or fun you're looking for there, I can guarantee you'd honestly find better company here... Maybe worse food and drink, but I'd take it over the party if I could."
The way he speaks and questions him implies he doesn't suspect Zarius of anything; it sounds more like a warning on his behalf, to not get his expectations of the "extravagant gala" up too high.
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Oct 2, 2022 19:35:21 GMT -5
Was he...disappointed? The look on Cantio's face certainly seems to imply as much.
The though occurred to Zarius in that moment that it was possible Cantio was used to people approaching him with disingenuous intentions. Cantio was, after all, very young, good looking, talented, and he didn't seem to be tangled up in any complicated business. At least not publicly. He was also well spoken, polite, and easy-going. All of that was a blessing, making it very likely that he would be successful and popular amongst the masses on day.
On the other hand, it painted a target on ones back for those looking to leverage off that potential. Cantio could easily be pinned as an asset to fulfill ones own greed where they able to manipulate the young man into their tangled web of lies and false promises. In the right hands, or perhaps the wrong ones, a charismatic bard of some repute would not be suspicious to find at any court party. Their access to to high society makes them a dangerous weapon to wield. He could understand that because it was what he was shamelessly attempting to do himself.
Cantio's gossiping about the Meadowblooms starts making the gears in Zarius' head turn. The bard was picking his words carefully, but it was still clear that he was not keen on giving the wealthy noble family a flattering description. It was earnest though. Cantio didn't seem to be a close family friend or invested in the family in any meaningful way.
Zarius had to admit, this changes things.
"There certainly are a lot of rumors floating about in regards to them. I can not help but wonder how much of it is true."
He considers his options, he could keep up with the lie of wanting to hear Cantio play. Zarius was still pretty sure that Cantio hadn't quite figured out what he was really after. No, how could he have? The bard wouldn't likely catch on that he was used just as a ticket into the gala until Zarius had already made himself scarce with whatever he found there. He could easily be out of the city far beyond the reach of the authorities. After that, they would likely never cross paths again and all this would end up being is a bad memory for the red tiefling. Maybe he would even right a song about it.
Zarius' expression darkens a bit. While he is fine with whatever consequences of his actions end up rearing their heads in the future, if he continued with his lie Cantio may be implicated and be unable to return here himself. He wasn't sure how much that mattered to the traveling performer, there were plenty of other places he could make a name for himself. The question was, could Zarius justify denying Cantio the choice to remain innocent in the whole venture?
He had used plenty of people before with no remorse. Why should this be any different?
For a brief moment there is a flash of annoyance on his face while he eyes Cantio up and down. Dammit. If only the performer was older and a reprehensible, obnoxious lush. That would make things so much simpler.
He made up his mind. He'd take a gamble on him.
"Do you have a place where we could continue this conversation in private?"
|
|
Mage's Guild
IS OFFLINE
2
Renown
Male
Dragon's Cradle
♪ Hide your face so the world can never find you. ♪
418 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Cantio von Lumen on Oct 4, 2022 16:35:25 GMT -5
"There certainly are a lot of rumors floating about in regards to them. I can not help but wonder how much of it is true."
Cantio sighs, dropping his arms to cross them over the table— and by extension, the invitation he had received from Zarius. "There's rumours like that about all nobles." he bemoans, tail flicking back and forth under the table. He keeps talking while Zarius seems to be listening; and by all accounts, to the drunk bard, he is. "If there's anything in this world you can rely on to be unreliable, it's nobles. There's always something about them that's... a little unsavoury. They drink too much, or they're too touchy; they're never satisfied, or they're too greedy... for the Meadowblooms, they're just too confident." He wonders, distantly, if it's hypocritical to be talking like this about the noble class, given he was raised by one; but it applied to them, too. They were too stiff, too controlling; it's why he left home the moment he scrounged up the courage. Sure, he's used to the noble class; yes, he knows their ins and outs; but that doesn't mean he likes any of it! Quite the opposite, really; the more you know about the intricacies of the upper-class, the more distasteful they can often become. He takes a sip of his drink while Zarius speaks— but it catches him a bit off guard.
"Do you have a place where we could continue this conversation in private?" Cantio laughs a bit, "Continue the conversation in private?" he remarks as he sets his drink down, but... his smile fades after a moment of observing Zarius. "Oh— you're serious?" He sets his cup down with a clink, furrowing his brows slightly. "I... don't live here any— ways," he clears his throat. "So I'm afraid all I have is the room I'm renting upstairs." He frowns slightly; Zarius doesn't look dangerous, but dragging him up to his room feels both awkward, and like a breech of his personal space. He looks off to the side, trying to consider an alternative, thoughtfully.
As thoughtful as a partially drunk man can be.
"Oh— actually!" he remarks loudly, then clears his throat, continuing a little more softly. "There's a few rooms off the upstairs lobby for VIP's to drink and such that the bartender said I'm welcome to request; I could ask and see if one's free." He looks a bit delighted in his new idea; he's never actually asked to use those rooms— drinking alone in a private room just sounds sad— and Cantio has always been far too embarrassed to ask, anyways.
|
|
CCS Courier
IS OFFLINE
31
Renown
Female
Ash Lands
Sister to one half of a can of Zardines
1,385 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Eameia (Zarius unavailable) on Oct 4, 2022 20:13:49 GMT -5
Seeing Cantio light up at the idea of requesting a VIP room reminded Zarius far too much of the reaction his younger brother had to having a clever idea. He grimmaces a little. Cantio wasn't even doing it on purpose but Zarius felt like he was being emotionally manipulated by the bard.
He stuffs those thoughts away and replies, "That will work just fine." He gets up from the table and follows Cantio's lead to acquiring the room.
After a brief chit chat between Cantio and the bartender, they secure the room and head up the stairs. Indeed, just off the upstairs lobby are a number of private rooms which require a key to enter. Zarius approaches one with Cantio, careful to make sure the drunk bard did not trip or drop the key.
Once they are alone in the lavishly decorated room and the door is closed, Zarius ensures it is locked so no one can just barge in. He looks at Cantio and gestures towards a chair.
"Please take a seat." He doesn't sit himself and instead positions himself between Cantio and the door, not being particularly subtle about it either as he stands with his hands behind his back. His previously jovial and friendly smile is replaced with a serious hardened stare.
"Let me clear the air now that we can speak openly. Everything I am about to tell you is confidential and is not to leave this room." He speaks in a firm manner, ensuring to speak as clearly as possible.
"I am actually in Sol City to investigate those scathing rumors against the Meadowblooms and their various business ventures. The gala they are throwing is a unique opportunity to slip into their home and search for clues no one else can get close to due to their social status."
He pauses and pulls a slip of paper out of his back and flicks it over onto the table next to Cantio's chair. The piece of paper in question contains a number of notes on the Meadowblooms and a list of suspected substances they were implicated in transporting abroad.
"I need your help in this venture." He continues. "The Meadowblooms obviously think highly of you despite your own reservations about them. If you require compensation, I can provide that should you agree to cooperate."
If Cantio reacted poorly, he was ready to spring into action and put him down. He could figure out a way to keep Cantio from alerting the authorities or the Meadowblooms until after the gala. His options were many, from stashing him in a closet to shipping him off on the next boat before the party. Normally he would be more careful about having to resort to such things, but Cantio was drunk, so he was confident he could neutralize him if it came down to it.
He waits a moment to let Cantio process the information, all the while watching his every reaction.
"What say you?"
|
|