Part 4: Setting the Stage

Oct 20, 2025 11:23 am
That evening, over dinner with Oriole and their odd Grandmama, the singer asks several questions to get to know you better. Their questions are mostly about Fallenta (with whom Oriole has never worked), and about your nemesis, Osoyo the Blackfrost Whale. Even now, Oriole is starting to build up ideas on how they want to portray the villain on stage.

After a few days of travel via teleportation, you return to Kintargo with Oriole in tow. The opera star is eager to spend some time exploring the city after being away for so long. In the meantime, you meet with Fallenta, who is delighted to hear that you've secured Oriole to play Osoyo on stage.

"Splendid! I shall see to Oriole's accommodations at once. But you, my friends, don't have time to sit idle, for your jobs as coproducers now begin in earnest!"

First, Fallenta requests you begin securing funding for the opera. She’s already sunk much of her own money into the production, so you must find sponsors to subsidize the remaining costs. Once you do so, Fallenta will assign you additional production tasks.

Fallenta has done the work of identifying potential sponsors already, and provides you with a list of eight Kintargo locals, all of whom have sponsored theatrical productions in the past. Fallenta happily tells you as much as she knows about each local, though she only has details that are public knowledge. She warns you that some of these sponsors are eccentric and might have their own demands in exchange for their donations, but then notes that it’s tradition in Kintargo for sponsors to prove their intention by providing valuable gifts to those they’re sponsoring as proof of their commitment. The general idea is that these gifts will eventually feature in some way in the production, although such isn’t required.

Aphigenia Jhaltero: Daughter of Baron Canton Jhaltero, a noble on Kintargo’s Silver Court, Lady Aphigenia Jhaltero is a patron of the arts and an avid opera fan. She’s a vivacious woman with a passion for all things musical, eager to entertain proposals of shows to fund. However, she also has a peculiar quirk: she only sponsors a show if its producers win over her "little pet." Unfortunately, Fallenta doesn't know what Aphigenia's current favorite pet is at the moment.

Davlu Bernai: The inexorable Davlu Bernai, head of the Bernai Silver Company, is a notable philanthropist who runs a charity dedicated to "improving the morals of Kintargo’s downtrodden" and often sponsors performances she deems "uplifting." Although her charity does provide aid, her definitions of "appropriate morals" are rather restrictive, and she’s quick to turn her gimlet glare on anyone who suggests she should be more flexible.

Eldonna Aulamaxa: An imperious, stately woman, Lady Eldonna Aulamaxa is head of the Kintargo branch of the Aulamaxa noble family. Though she attempted an opera career—and fancies herself a retired performer—her reviews were decidedly uncomplimentary, and she never achieved the fame of her more acclaimed cousin, Delour. Resentful at her lack of success, Eldonna instead projected her hopes for operatic stardom onto her daughter, Cadenza, and pulls strings to get her daughter cast in roles every chance she gets.

Ivran Xerysis: Born in Westcrown, Lord Ivran Xerysis relocated to Kintargo to look after his family’s holdings in the city shortly after the Silver Ravens’ revolution resulted in Ravounel’s independence. Now a member of the Silver Council, Ivran is wealthy and well-connected, and although Kintargan gossip holds that he has the humor of an undertaker and the charm of a wooden post, he’s known to donate to artistic endeavors that catch his interest.

Mialari Docur: Lady Mialari Docur is a prominent figure in Kintargo, most known for her academy, Lady Docur’s School for Girls. She’s highly influential and has a well-known love of the theater, often sponsoring productions.

Ricovial Cebarinne: Opera divas tend to be outsized personalities, and Ricovial Cebarinne proves no exception. During his career, the mercurial tenor was known for being a perfectionist. His rivalry with Oriole was legendary, and sparks often flew between them—not all of them antagonistic, though the two never fully struck up a romance. When Oriole retired, Ricovial was very publicly scathing about them "giving up," even though he retired shortly thereafter. Theater gossips hold that his heart wasn’t in it anymore without Oriole to clash against. Now, Ricovial runs a voice training school for aspiring singers out of his lavish estate and dedicates some of his personal fortune toward funding operas he deems worthy of his time.

Tevandis Sastrien: Salmon magnate Tevandis Sastrien is a prominent Kintargan merchant and philanthropist who’s branched out into funding the arts. Recently, inspiration struck him to use his donations to promote his products, and so far he’s funded a salmon-themed series of paintings, salmon sculptures, and even—in a venture with somewhat unsettling results—an interpretive dance about the salmon’s epic migratory journey upriver to spawn.

Vaizeth Ilviak: Though they look the part, Vaizeth Ilviak is an atypical Kuthite. They follow a splinter sect of the faith that holds Zon-Kuthon’s current condition is a result of him martyring himself to save his sister Shelyn from an unnamed great evil. As the orthodox faith of Zon-Kuthon views such beliefs as heretical, Vaizeth fled their homeland of Nidal. They resettled in Kintargo, where they’ve become a patron of the arts. They’re very enthusiastic about "showing a friendlier side of the faith" by engaging in such philanthropy.
OOC:
You may approach these sponsors in any order of your choosing.
Oct 21, 2025 11:12 am
"So if we go visit Lady Aulamaxa, we will be stuck with casting her daughter," he says. "Do we know if she's inherited her mother's lack of talent?"

"If she's good we can get funding and a star in the same visit. And if she don't we can try to get her some training from Ricovial. He'll probably be glad to hear Oriole is back in business."
Oct 21, 2025 2:29 pm
"From what I've heard, Cadenza is an adequate actress, but not a fabulous one," Fallenta says with a shrug. "Mayhaps a talented director like myself might be able to coax a decent performance out of her?"
Oct 21, 2025 3:30 pm
"Well, I suppose as long as you are ok with Cadenze showing up for a part, or any other concessions we have to make, we best be on our way. We all have much to do."
Oct 23, 2025 9:10 am
Once you are ready, you schedule your first sponsor meeting with Eldonna Aulamaxa. Eldonna meets with you in an elegantly appointed drawing room on the ground floor of the Aulamaxa estate. Her daughter Cadenza is in attendance as well, and both meet you at a breakfast table replete with tea and pastries. Eldonna is in her early fifties, while her daughter is in her early twenties, but they share the same striking shade of red hair. The older woman looks up, smiling brightly as you arrive.

"Welcome! Please have a seat! I understand you wanted to meet with me regarding a production. This is my daughter, Cadenza. Say hello, dear."

The younger woman nods and murmurs a polite greeting, then quickly glances away.

"So, then, tell me what your show is about," Eldonna inquires.

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Oct 25, 2025 9:29 pm
Attempting to be as modest as possible, Bekassine says; "Well, it's about us. Our travels, and our battles. Although you would know better than most that it's not so much what the show is about, but how it's presented that's important."
Oct 25, 2025 10:06 pm
"Indeed, Bekassine has said it." Aurelia noticed Cadenza's shyness, if that is what it was, in which case she wouldn't make a good actress. Perhaps it was something else. Maybe she didn't want to play a part at all.

"Nice to meet you Cadenza!" Aurelia shows her brightest smile in her attempt to put the young woman at ease. "Are you excited about playing a part in what will surely be an amazing production?
Oct 26, 2025 8:41 am
Horace takes both women's hands in his own and gives it a light kiss, one after the other, before seating himself. "It is a pleasure to meet you both," he says. "The exploit we particularly will be sharing with Kintargo is one of adventure, leading to the defeat of a great and terrible creature. There are, indeed, many roles yet to be cast. As producers of the show, we are hoping to find both funding and talent for the production." He leans in close, "Did you hear yet that we have even brought Oriole back to play the antagonist?"
Oct 27, 2025 2:11 pm
"Ah, yes, Oriole, is it? Quite nice," Eldonna replies, clearly not paying very much attention. She does smile at the interaction between Aurelia and Cadenza. Cadenza gives Aurelia a half-smile that doesn't reach her eyes and opens her mouth to say something before her mother cuts her off.

"Indeed, Cadenza is thrilled for another opportunity to showcase her talent on stage? Aren't you, darling?" Eldonna declares. Cadenza nods weakly and Eldonna chuckles. "Why, in fact, I think she'd be the perfect choice to portray you in the play, Aurelia. If you can promise the role to my daughter, then I will gladly sponsor your production!"

Cadenza turns her head to conceal a slight grimace. It's clear that Cadenza is less than enthused at joining the cast...
OOC:
You can automatically gain Eldonna's sponsorship by agreeing to cast Cadenza. If you with to try to convince Eldonna that Cadenza isn't a great fit for the opera, you can attempt some skill checks to influence her attitude. Appropriate skills include Deception, Diplomacy, Intimidation, Performance, or Theater Lore.
Oct 28, 2025 2:48 am
Horace frowns slightly, catching Cadenza's reaction to the idea of playing the role of Aurelia. He looks back to Eldonna. "I think you have a fine eye, Eldanna, though I would be remiss to put all opportunities on the table." He shifts his eyes back to Cadenza, "What sort of interest do you have in this production, fair Cadenza?"

Rolls

Diplomacy (Cha) - (1d20+29)

(14) + 29 = 43

Oct 28, 2025 2:18 pm
Cadenza glances from her mother to Horace. "Oh, um. Well, it seems like an... interesting play," she says quietly. "But there's a lot of action? I don't know if I'm the best suited for this sort of role--"

Eldonna waves off her daughter's concerns. "Oh, nonsense, darling! You would be fantastic as one of the leads! After all, you were born for the stage!"
OOC:
More skill checks are needed to further influence her.
Oct 28, 2025 2:42 pm
"Sorry Mrs. Aulamaxa, but I believe my companion asked your daughter," Ramank says. "Why don't you let her answer her own questions."

He moves closer and says a little lower so Cadenza hopefully can't hear him. "I do believe alllowing her to so would help her self confidence."
OOC:
Playing hard ball, hopefully I won't screw up our reputation.

Edit: Will Hero Point that roll.
Last edited October 28, 2025 2:42 pm

Rolls

Intimidation (Cha) - (1d20+28)

(7) + 28 = 35

Intimidation (Cha) - (1d20+28)

(10) + 28 = 38

Oct 28, 2025 2:57 pm
Eldonna harrumphs but waves her hand. "Very well. Cadenza, darling, go on. You were saying?"

Cadenza clears her throat. "Um, that is, I think perhaps I would do better in a smaller role instead of as one of the lead actors. Maybe, in the chorus?"

"But darling, don't you want the glitz and the glamor of the spotlight?" Eldonna inquires.

Cadenza gives a little shrug.
OOC:
You can agree to cast Cadenza in the chorus, or you can keep pushing with more skill checks to help Cadenza assert herself.
Oct 28, 2025 3:12 pm
Bekassine speaks up; "Fallenta tells us 'There are no small Roles . . '" but is interupted by an argumentative bark from Fox "I don't think she meant it like that Fox. Cadenza, we know what your mother envisions for you, but now is the time to tell us where you would feel most comfortable."
OOC:
Going to try and Aid someone else's roll, since this isn't Bekasine's area of expertise

Rolls

Diplomacy (Cha) - (1d20+17)

(20) + 17 = 37

Oct 29, 2025 2:08 am
Aurelia, surprised at Ramnak's directness, suppressed her desire to make an admonishing face. She didn't much care for the domineering mother either, though, so she attempted a reassuring smile directed at the poor girl. Who really knew what she wanted with her hovering mother speaking for her?

"Indeed, Bekassine is right. Tell us honestly. Do you want to play a part in our production at all? If so, perhaps a smaller supporting role?"

It was Aurelia's view that if an actor's heart wasn't in it, the performance would lack authenticity.

Rolls

Diplomacy - (1d20+29)

(3) + 29 = 32

Oct 29, 2025 10:29 am
Cadenza takes a deep breath and faces her mother. "Mother, I know you have your heart set on me becoming an opera star. But I really don't want that. I'd much rather focus on my arcane studies."

Eldonna gasps and puts her hand to her chest. "Cadenza! Darling, why have you never said anything before?"

"I've tried," Cadenza says. "But you know how you get when you set your mind on something. A life on stage was your dream, but it's not mine."

"Oh, my darling," Eldonna sighs. "I am sorry I've been so pushy about this. I never realized that I was making you so miserable! Of course, I want you to be happy, and if that means pursuing a career as an arcanist and not an actress, then so be it."

Cadenza smiles and moves to embrace her mother. Eldonna agrees to sponsor your opera without further fuss! She gifts you with several bottles of fine Chelaxian liqueurs worth 3,000 gp and an entertainer's cincture.
OOC:
You gain 1 Production Point. Which sponsor would you like to meet with next?
Oct 30, 2025 6:49 pm
OOC:
Ricovial Cebarinne might be a bit complicated for now. How about Ivran Xerysis or Mialari Docur?
Oct 31, 2025 6:00 am
Horace thanks the Archbaroness with a deep bow. "We welcome your patronage, thank you."

Once outside, he suggests, "Why don't we go see Mialari Docur next? She runs a school for girls, right? Well it just so happens we have some amazing and insightful women in our group that would make for wonderful role-models."
OOC:
Rolling Society - does Horace have any idea how big this school for girls is? He's wondering if it might be reasonable to suggest free tickets for the students, maybe even a backstage tour?

Rolls

Society (Int) - (1d20+22)

(19) + 22 = 41

Oct 31, 2025 7:55 am
Docur's School for Girls the oldest of the many private schools in the Villegre district of Kintargo, having been founded about 300 years ago by Lady Mialari Docur, who still runs the school. The school has a hundred students or so, but is somewhat overshadowed by the larger, more famous Alabaster Academy. Rumors that the school is actually a front for some sort of shady organization or another have persisted for several years, but none of them have ever been proven true.
Nov 3, 2025 3:38 pm
At the appointed time, Lady Mialari Docur invites you to meet with her at her academy, Lady Docur's School for Girls. Seated in an armchair with a steaming pot of tea on the table in front of her is an elven woman with long red hair. Upon the door opening, Mialari smiles and gracefully gestures to the other chairs.

"Greetings! I’ve heard about your opera, so I was delighted when you reached out. I understand you convinced Oriole to come back to the stage; that’s quite an achievement. Please, tell me about your show."

Mialari discusses the opera’s plot and themes with you, taking a keen interest in your responses. When you've finished, she asks each of you to demonstrate the talent you're most proud of.
OOC:
Each PC can choose a talent to demonstrate, requiring a DC 34 skill check for a relevant skill.
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