Ep 1: Thorns & Thieves

[00:00:00] Speaker A: Sa. Hi, I'm Bloody Porcelain and I will be playing Lady Eloise Beaufort. [00:00:37] Speaker B: Hello, I'm bookkeeper and I will be playing Colonel Thomas Campbell. [00:00:43] Speaker C: Hello, I am Legacy and I'll be playing lady Catherine Beaufort. [00:00:48] Speaker D: Hello, I'm overthinker and I'll be playing Mr. John Fielding. [00:00:55] Speaker E: And hello, I'm Grizz and I'll be your facilitator for the evening. How we doing players? [00:01:03] Speaker D: Quite well, thank you for asking. [00:01:05] Speaker E: I'm glad to hear it. So tonight we're going to go to the agreed upon beginning that we talked about just a few moments ago. We are going to go into the scene of Upper Redwood, a lovely little town in about middle England. As the snow has officially melted and the green has finally taken over the rolling hills of this idyllic little town. Plenty of farms the already being released as it's getting warm enough for it. A few pockets of thickets and larger forests. The major rows and smaller ones leading up to the farms and the far off distance. The actual small town where various shops and other things have been slowly built over time. It's not a quickly building town. It's pretty traditional for all intents and purposes, but it's gaining some traction as a lot of the older buildings have been fully been inhabited by some of the upper echelons of Anglo society. But one has been inhabited for quite some time. And we are going to sift our eyes away from the little hamlet of Upper Redwich to Redwich Abbey which was purchased by the Beaufort family many years ago. And today is the first party of spring where God, my notes are everywhere. Everybody where Kelleran Beaufort has invited just friends, acquaintances, people, people from far flung parts of England and the greater British Isles to just come and talk and visit and just enjoy the warmth of the spring. After being shut inside for so long, it's the first party of the year and everyone's finally coming out to greet each other again after so long. And we begin this event. We begin the story in the middle of this event. Sorry, where we have Catherine Beaufort. Katherine, how are you? [00:03:26] Speaker C: I'm very well. It's new and exciting and it's good to see all the friends and family that have been kind of hiding away for the winter season. So I'm just. I'm currently surrounding myself with the dogs though, so. [00:03:43] Speaker E: Oh absolutely. And your aunt God, Carolyn and Catherine. Carolyn has situated this party kind of in one of the outer parts of the abbey, one of the courtyards that bleeds into the fields, that go off into a forest to Allow her dogs to be able to roam more freely among the partygoers. And there's obviously plenty of seating. The food is delicious. And you do have a few servants walking around, but not as many as you'd think, but they're managing just fine. And as you're enjoying yourself, you do notice the approach of three young gentlemen. And as they're approaching you, they seem to pause. And you notice that they're coming from, like, three different directions. But it's odd that they all chose this exact time. And given where you are and the timing, you begin to have an inkling of what they're trying to do before they pause awkwardly and all look at each other. And everyone's eyes are kind of drawn to it, and everyone can kind of surmise what they were planning to do, but they all seem to bleed away back into the crowd, as I like trying not to notice anything. So given that, and everyone else did notice that as well, the party kind of goes into hush, mutters and quiet, as apparently you, young Catherine has several suitors. [00:05:43] Speaker C: Oh, oh, oh, oh, gentlemen, thank you all very much. I am quite flattered. And she'll give a very small curtsy. I am surely too stunned to speak. And she looks a little bit nervous. Her hands are folded together and she just offers a very courteous smile to all. I really don't know what to say. And she just very, very. She straightened herself up and kind of looks like past them to her sister and her aunt for guidance. She's one of the more recently introduced into society, so she's still trying to kind of figure out how to shift into a very polite rejection. [00:07:20] Speaker E: Yeah, no, the three of them. You do see an elderly army individual. You see another younger man. You think he's the son of a recent businessman that moved into town coming up from London. And another darker gentleman. You can't quite place him, but he looks oddly familiar. But you can't place it. It's scratching in the back of your mind. But he has a sly smile about him that suggests he does, in fact, know you very well. But given all of that, there is. They all seem to nod to each other. And the one with a sly smile just kind of like, gives a small bow. Of course, I would love to talk to you again at a time that is more appropriate. I didn't think I would. He just gives a big grin to the other two. Such immediate competition. But, like, I can't blame them. [00:08:36] Speaker C: It is very kind of you to say that. I would love to speak with you in a More private setting maybe later on. I am feeling very parched, so if you gentlemen don't mind if I excuse myself for one brief moment, I will be back to speak with all of you later. And she again gives a very polite curtsy and kind of makes her way the long way, kind of like around the three of them, keeping her posture nice and straight, her arms and her hands folded in front of her. And again she takes off, not running, but kind of picking up her pace while walking, of course. [00:09:34] Speaker E: And as we bleed out of the situation, the three of you all saw it. Like no one at this, at this little soiree missed this. [00:09:45] Speaker D: Mr. Fielding. [00:09:46] Speaker E: Yeah. [00:09:47] Speaker D: Mr. Fielding walks up and Lady Eloise. Did I behold what I believe that I did? Hands are her drink. [00:10:00] Speaker A: She will take it. Perhaps we didn't overhear the exact wording. Could have been a coincidence. She's got this look on her face that suggests that she is trying very hard not to look as hopeful that it was a coincidence as she feels. [00:10:22] Speaker D: Intention or coincidence. It seems a statement has been made as to the attentions focused on your dear sister. [00:10:32] Speaker A: Indeed. [00:10:35] Speaker D: Consider me impressed, though not at all surprised. [00:10:42] Speaker A: She just kind of gives a slightly forced smile. [00:10:48] Speaker D: H. [00:10:51] Speaker A: I should go and check on her. Would you excuse me? [00:10:57] Speaker D: Certainly. [00:11:01] Speaker A: Eloise will kind of slip away looking for an excuse to get away from her intended and make her way over to Catherine. And as ladies are want and happily able to do, will kind of link her arm with her little sisters as they walk towards the, I'm assuming like, where the tea and the punch and such is being served. Deep breath. [00:11:35] Speaker C: It was slightly overwhelming, I will admit. Ellie, did you know about this? [00:11:47] Speaker A: No. But I did warn you what all of your flirtations could lead to if you didn't make it clear who you were and were not interested in. [00:12:01] Speaker C: I didn't mean it to be flirtatious at all. I thought I was just being kind. I did not mean for it to come off that way. Definitely didn't mean for it to come off that way. And she looks at the older gentleman. I'm sure that Auntie would appreciate me marrying a refined gentleman such as himself, but I, I, I, I, I, I know what I must do. I am just slightly overwhelmed with everything. [00:12:53] Speaker A: Well, deep breath. No. Can't very well make any big proclamations at the party. Not after that. [00:13:04] Speaker C: Yes, yes, yes, yes, I am. I know, I know. You've always been such a kind and warming sister to me. I'm sure that. That things will be okay. Very okay. [00:13:25] Speaker A: They will. Then I'll See what I can do about getting some of the eyes off of you. If that's what you would like. Give you time to settle your nerves. [00:13:33] Speaker C: I. I am ever so grateful for you, sister. [00:13:41] Speaker A: Oh, and who's this? As we walk up to the punch bowl and the older gentleman that Catherine gestured to is standing there. [00:14:04] Speaker B: Colonel Campbell has his hand on Jonathan the. The older army major's shoulder and is murmuring something in his ear. But we'll step. [00:14:17] Speaker E: Yeah, good. [00:14:18] Speaker B: And we'll turn back around to the. [00:14:21] Speaker E: And. [00:14:22] Speaker B: Well, it does appear that the Ladies Beaufort have made quite an impression on the crowd tonight. [00:14:31] Speaker E: I don't. I don't think I did so good, Campbell. I really don't think I did. I thought. I thought I had an opportunity in there. So much more younger, better looking. And you'd see him take his handkerchief and he's like getting the sweat off his brow and underneath his skin. Easy. I didn't think I'd have to. Easy now. You're shaking. I am shaking. [00:15:01] Speaker B: The dogs have shaken less than you. [00:15:05] Speaker E: It's like the combat sweats. You remember those. [00:15:08] Speaker B: Get a hold of yourself, man. [00:15:11] Speaker E: You see him like, hold his hand. You see him grab one wrist and like that hand is still shaking. But his other hand stop like half there. Look, you did say it was a cord like this. [00:15:29] Speaker B: Take this tree. Go sit down. [00:15:32] Speaker E: Slowly, slowly. [00:15:34] Speaker B: Deep breath. You'll be all right. [00:15:41] Speaker E: I think she fancies me. Tap his heels at you and sit down. And you probably hear the sound of the chair shaking a little bit. But his hand stopped and he's just sipping the tea. [00:16:05] Speaker B: He's gonna break something before the night is out. [00:16:14] Speaker A: Eloise is doing her best to pretend that she didn't hear any of that. [00:16:18] Speaker C: So is Catherine. [00:16:20] Speaker A: They are very focused on the punch bowl right now. [00:16:25] Speaker B: Ladies, how are you all doing? [00:16:34] Speaker A: Quite well, thank you. [00:16:36] Speaker C: Yes. [00:16:39] Speaker A: Thank you. Yourself? [00:16:43] Speaker B: Oh, I can't complain. Or at least so I've been told. At least for the next several hours. Lady Catherine, I see you're just as popular with the gentleman as you used to be with your auntie's dogs. [00:17:02] Speaker C: Oh, I'm still quite popular with the. The puppies. And then she's going to look out and she's just going to whistle for all 13 of them to surround her. [00:17:21] Speaker A: The second she whistles, Eloise's eyes just sort of half closed like, oh, no. [00:17:27] Speaker E: Should begin. [00:17:28] Speaker B: And I take up a drink. [00:17:30] Speaker E: From across the fields, Bailey, Bonnie, Bess, Bryn, Blair, Bella, Brutus, Baron, Bernard, Bo, Bentley, Bootsy and Zarius all come running across the field. I have to pin this. I can't. Never mind. [00:17:47] Speaker B: As a military man, I have to say they do have fine formation. [00:17:54] Speaker E: Actually, they are oddly in a. But I think Zarius is leading all of the bees behind him and stops curtly in front of you. [00:18:05] Speaker C: They have had many years of training. My aunt is quite well with her animal companions, unfortunately. Dear, I believe she called him Birmingham. Passed away earlier this year at a ripe young age of 14. But these ones are still spic and spiffy and they love to run around. And they are as healthy as, well, a horse. [00:18:44] Speaker E: And quite protective. [00:18:46] Speaker B: Quite protective of their lady as well, I can see. [00:18:53] Speaker C: They might not be the best at guarding, but you get enough of them to get jumpy and they could take even the strongest warrior down. [00:19:08] Speaker B: Especially if he's so foolish as to get down on one knee, eh? [00:19:16] Speaker C: And she. She goes to speak, but kind of closes her mouth and lets off just a very soft chuckle. Something like that, yes. It is very nice to see you, Colonel. [00:19:35] Speaker B: And you. And where are my manners? My congratulations to you, Lady Eloise. [00:19:43] Speaker A: Thank you, sir. [00:19:45] Speaker B: Word of your betrothal has even reached the wilds of Scotland. [00:19:50] Speaker A: Has it? So far? [00:19:55] Speaker B: Well, the mail does come slowly, but it does come. [00:20:01] Speaker D: At this point, I think. John enters the room, sort of waves to you, not wishing to approach the dogs too closely. [00:20:09] Speaker E: We're outside. [00:20:10] Speaker D: Oh, perfect. Indeed. Hello, Colonel. [00:20:18] Speaker E: Good to see you, Mr. [00:20:19] Speaker B: Fielding. You look well. [00:20:23] Speaker D: And you as well, sir. The northern weather does good for you. [00:20:30] Speaker B: Being back from France does good for me, but it's the same thing, really. [00:20:34] Speaker E: Hmm. [00:20:37] Speaker D: Indeed, yes, Lady Eloise, I. Campbell and I are old friends. I thought to inform him of the momentous and wonderful change my life might soon undertake. [00:20:54] Speaker A: Oh, well, it's lovely to meet you, Colonel, and pleased to know that our engagement and the happy tidings have reached so far. [00:21:11] Speaker D: Tell me, Colonel, back from France, I don't suppose you had any chance to examine the local fashions. [00:21:19] Speaker B: Other than putting holes in them, no. [00:21:25] Speaker D: A true shame. My personal business has necessitated that I study French fashion and culture as Parisian dress seems to be ever ahead of us in the years. [00:21:43] Speaker B: You know, that's the funniest thing. When we were at the battle of Quatre Bras, there was a bunch of French cavalrymen who are wearing these old steel cuirasses like they were breastplates or something. They're the shiniest things in the world. But what we discovered in the aftermath of the battle was they made fine frying pans. [00:22:05] Speaker D: I see. [00:22:07] Speaker B: Well, after we'd seen the Frenchies off. We were given a ration of steaks to enjoy as a sort of victory reward. The hardest part was keeping the gravy in the pan and not slipping out the bullet holes we'd left in the steel. [00:22:23] Speaker D: Indeed. Most impressions and efficacious. [00:22:28] Speaker B: It's kind of awkward. The Dutch thought we were eating the Frenchies. [00:22:34] Speaker D: At this point. Jon sort of looks over at Lady Eloise and is like, should we be talking about this? [00:22:41] Speaker A: Eloise has snapped open her fan and is fanning herself with very small, quiet as she can manage, but vigorous movements of her wrists. Like this is probably not appropriate, but we're in it and she doesn't know how to get out of it yet. [00:23:06] Speaker C: Meanwhile, Catherine is listening very intently, letting her eyes do the reacting for her. [00:23:18] Speaker D: John's gonna pick up on Eloise's discomfort and scan around the room for literally anyone else. [00:23:24] Speaker E: Speaking of anyone else. Ah. Oh, okay. Well, book. You can just say that out loud if you want to. [00:23:35] Speaker B: I would like to spend one of my resolve tokens to have Lady Eloise do something perhaps inadvertent, that makes clear to everyone in this little group her current. Her discontent with her current betrothal situation. [00:23:53] Speaker E: Is that cool with you, bp? [00:23:56] Speaker A: Sure. I think when John looks to Eloise for that kind of. Is this okay kind of look, there's a moment where she looks distinctly disappointed that not only is he looking to her to, like, say yes or no, but that he's not getting them out of it because it's his friend and he started the conversation and she's a woman and she's not supposed to take control of the conversation. So he's put her in a very awkward situation for her station, and there's a look on her face that says that she feels that she can't. She can't hide it. [00:24:56] Speaker D: Major, have you seen the grounds? It's quite a lovely. The abbey was always lovely. And in this time of year, there is no better place for a hundred miles where one can walk and enjoy the beauty of our nation. Would you like to join me? [00:25:18] Speaker A: The family gardens are just coming into bloom. [00:25:21] Speaker B: I have wandered the abbey grounds once or twice before with a wee Catherine Beaufort, as I recall. But I'd be happy to take a walk wherever you. Wherever it is you wish to go. And incidentally, Mr. Fielding, it's Colonel now. [00:25:37] Speaker E: Lead on. [00:25:38] Speaker D: Certainly, Colonel. [00:25:43] Speaker A: I would like to spend a resolve token. [00:25:45] Speaker E: By all means. [00:25:46] Speaker A: What would you like to do to cause Catherine to reveal her fluttery feelings for the good Colonel as they're walking away. [00:26:03] Speaker E: Legacy. Is that okay with you? [00:26:05] Speaker C: Yeah, that's fine. [00:26:06] Speaker E: Mm. By the way, you can always. You can always negotiate if you want to change it up a little bit, but it's up to you. [00:26:12] Speaker C: No, no, no. I'm fine with this. [00:26:14] Speaker E: Absolutely. [00:26:17] Speaker C: As they walk away, Catherine is not hiding the fact that she is staring very intently at Colonel Thomas and ever so slightly brushing her hair behind her ears. And she is not taking her eyes off of him. And the dogs are, like, barking, trying to get her attention and jumping all over her. And usually Eloise would know that, like, the dogs are a main priority for her. She loves them just as much as auntie does, but right now she is very distracted. [00:27:05] Speaker E: Speaking of auntie, while you are very distracted. Well, goodness, you got to pay attention to them. What are you doing? Oh, Bailey, Bonnie, best friend, Blair, Bella, Brutus, Baron Bernard, Beau, Bentley, and Zarius. You should know to tell your brothers and sisters to calm down. What are you doing? What are you doing? Here we go. Is everything all right? Well, except for what just happened, but. What? Are you really making eyes at him right now? [00:27:34] Speaker C: Auntie? No, I. I promise I was not making eyes at anybody. I was just. [00:27:39] Speaker E: Because you have plenty of eyes on you. Goodness. [00:27:43] Speaker C: Um, I was just taking in the breeze is all. [00:27:49] Speaker E: Well, the breeze is tall and very attractive indeed. But that's not. Yes. [00:27:54] Speaker C: I mean, no. I mean, no. Goodness, the dogs. Yes. Sorry, Belle, but Bryn. Bel. Stop, stop, stop, stop, stop, stop, stop. [00:28:08] Speaker D: You. [00:28:08] Speaker E: You don't have the. You have the good men, Jonathan. And not to mention, you have a plucket staring at you from over there. There. And the one that you recognize who's, like, the son of one of the businessmen, has been, like, surrounded by. I won't say cronies, but, yeah, some other, like, not well to do, but well to do. Younger gentleman. And he's, like, whispering to them like he's trying to formulate a plan. And then there's that darker, like, taller. Darker skinned, taller gentleman with, like, his hair's a little bit too long. Lynn is okay. His beard is a bit too scruffy, but he's just leaning back in a chair kind of off to the side of everybody, and he's just sipping on something that you don't think is tea, grinning at you, watching you, this whole situation go down. And she kind of turns back to you. It's like, do you have enough eyes on you? And two of them. Well, Jonathan's sweetheart, that plucket boy. [00:29:10] Speaker C: Is. [00:29:10] Speaker E: He a good person? I don't Think so. Is this family good, Sister, Good. A good situation. Of course they aren't. [00:29:17] Speaker C: Of course. Auntie. My sincerest apologies. I will do better. And she'll take. She's gonna pick up one of the. One of the dogs. She'll pick up a Zarius in her arms and just kind of begin to pet him. Don't worry. You won't lead me astray, will you? You'll set me in the right direction. Darling. [00:29:44] Speaker A: You're going to get dog hair all over those lovely white gloves. [00:29:51] Speaker C: But I don't. Fine. And she'll begrudgingly put the dog down. [00:29:59] Speaker E: Now. I have spent all winter convincing your mother and your father that the person I have in mind, Young Neil, is Kiss Station. Isn't. They aren't in a great position, but they're in a position to do great things. And I don't. I don't want them to force someone down your throat. But you can't be looking around like that. They're right over there. Luckily. They've been distracted by so many people all day. And she gestures. And near the closer to the Abbey, like underneath, like a large awning is another seating area. And there are so many messages in this chat that I am losing so many names. Can I get some more pins, please? Goodness. I don't even know where it was. [00:30:48] Speaker A: Are you looking for a parent? [00:30:50] Speaker E: Yeah, that'd be great. [00:30:51] Speaker A: William Beaufort and Lenore Beaufort. [00:30:54] Speaker E: Yeah. So William and Lenore are. They're dressed relatively formally but, you know, they're dressing slightly down because they want to enjoy the warmth and they encouraged everyone and the message is outward to do the same. But no, they don't seem to have noticed this occurrence yet. But you can tell several other partygoers definitely have. [00:31:21] Speaker C: Mm. My. My. Right. Right. Um. My. And she's gonna very quickly wipe the. Wipe the dog hair off of her hands and. And readjust her hair and just get back. Right back into a formal position. I shall go and make myself acquainted with Mr. Neil. I would appreciate it. [00:31:53] Speaker E: I'm not saying you have to obviously be with him or anything like that, but just make the introduction. Let the family know that you're interested and that'll give you time, I hope, to find someone that's right for you because that's all I want. The both of you. And looked at Eloise. [00:32:12] Speaker A: Eloise will force a smile. [00:32:18] Speaker E: Locked it. [00:32:23] Speaker A: Of course. Auntie. [00:32:27] Speaker E: I show you red like book. So she will nod to the both of you. I believe he's underneath. What are the oak trees over there? Just make Yourself known. And Eloise, would you be a darling and just be there. [00:32:49] Speaker A: Always, Auntie. Of course. [00:32:51] Speaker E: Thank you. You both look so wonderful today. Better put it down. Put it down. No, it's a good silverware. Better. We don't have much of it left. Put it down. Put it. [00:33:09] Speaker A: Link her arm with her sisters again and whisk Catherine away while that's unfolding. She's like, that's a mess we don't need to be a part of. [00:33:18] Speaker E: What did I raise you for? [00:33:23] Speaker C: The screaming as they walk away. [00:33:26] Speaker E: If anything, the red witch, Abby. And the family that dwells within. Everyone knows that empty many dogs. [00:33:36] Speaker A: Many dogs. [00:33:38] Speaker E: It's a little zany, but there are always many dogs and they're always lovable. And she is an absolute treat, if not a little bit informal sometimes, but, well, she's doing pretty well for herself. So respectfully, fuck him. [00:33:52] Speaker A: She could be worse. [00:33:54] Speaker E: She could definitely be worse. [00:33:55] Speaker C: Definitely be worse. [00:33:57] Speaker E: So as we kind of like cut to the outskirts of the party, we have the good Colonel and Mr. Feeling. Apple said Mr. John. But no, I don't think so. [00:34:15] Speaker D: Not yet. [00:34:16] Speaker E: Not yet. And just walking through the outskirts, the party's still going on, but roll for perception, John. You. You've come from a kind of like a rougher, like more like a rough and tumble kind of background. You do catch sight of the individual who's been, like, staring down Catherine for the better part of the day as you're like, walking through the outskirts. Um, you think you recognize him. It's. And it's the definition of like, he has one of those faces and it's kind of off putting, but you believe you recognize him from somewhere, but you're not sure. But that's just a side note as you're perusing the grounds with the colonel. As you were. [00:35:21] Speaker D: Indeed. [00:35:23] Speaker B: How's business? [00:35:26] Speaker D: Business proceeds well. Expectations are exceeded. If I may be so bold, I believe that while there are certainly other businesses in the industry that produce quality products and have long been preferred by the most elite clientele, I find that my own wares, be they suits or dresses or other items of high fashion, serve well. We are at this point an established name, no longer in the dangerous space where one might simply disappear. [00:36:11] Speaker B: You'll be glad to know His Grace credited me my new army jacket when I arrived in France. So you make an impression. [00:36:21] Speaker D: Tis my hope. A good impression is my hope. I'm all too aware that some men of my background and station can make the impression that one should buy from them and then be gone. [00:36:37] Speaker B: I'D say. Well, based on your recent betrothal that you're making, you're charming at some level, to be sure. [00:36:49] Speaker D: I hope so. I find myself concerned at every waking moment as to whether my betrothal is due to my charms or the success of my business and the pressures of her family. [00:37:06] Speaker B: You do not think that Lady Eloise is a. Some sort of fortune hunter? [00:37:13] Speaker D: I would never impugn her honor. She is a woman of tremendous character and great insight and intelligence. It is my own fortunes which, though greatly risen, humble beginnings cannot be ignored. [00:37:36] Speaker B: You're saying this to a man who wore a kilt to a formal party. I think I know what you're talking about. [00:37:42] Speaker D: Perhaps. But your honor and respect are one in blood and service to your country. What I have acquired has been subtler perhaps. [00:37:56] Speaker B: But steadier. [00:38:00] Speaker D: Perhaps. [00:38:02] Speaker B: And as they look at the estate, I am going to spend my monologue token to ask Mr. Fielding to tell us all at length how he feels about his betrothal and his prospects therein. What? [00:38:33] Speaker E: Yep. [00:38:35] Speaker D: All right. I was born to. To F.2 parents I have never known. I believe them to be a station and perhaps of class. But for whatever reason or combination of reasons, they left me. And I did not learn of their existence until. Until I was a man grown. I came up in poor houses. I came up working and cared for only by those few employees who could see it beyond their meager income to care. I was fortunate, perhaps more than some, to meet with a tradesman of unique skill. By his hand I learned to sew. And the value of fashion, moreover, the value of appearance. He said to me, john, one must not judge a book by its cover. But one may judge a cover by its quality. He taught me. He taught me to understand what a man wishes to say by how he dresses, by how he holds himself. And he taught me to hold myself. And to say what I mean, when I mean it and what should be said when it must be said. Eventually, when he passed, he left me his business. And that business became my business. And my business has become an institution in the fashion of the region. Rare now is the party where one does not enter and feel a sense of confidence, a building within themselves, a fortification of their will for their wearing a Fielding suit. It is my hope, my perhaps vain and silly hope, that in raising myself up, in learning that my parents are part of this world and my entrance to it through the miraculous company of a Miss Eloise Beaufort, perhaps I can. I can find out who I would have been if those parents who made Whatever decisions they made had made a different one. I have my doubts, of course. My life has taught me to doubt, to expect trouble, to assume. Not always the kindest motivation. But. But I shall proceed with trepidation and a very nice su. [00:42:23] Speaker E: Well said. Thank you. [00:42:34] Speaker D: What say you to that, Colonel? [00:42:38] Speaker B: So, normally the monologue is an inner monologue. [00:42:42] Speaker E: Started talking? Sure. But no. [00:42:48] Speaker B: If you would like to have. If you would like to have said all that in character, I will react. But I wanted to give you that option. [00:42:55] Speaker D: I appreciate it. Let me think about that. I kind of feel like the conversation is in the right space. We're talking about prospects and feelings and we haven't seen each other in years or however long you've been at war. Maybe a shortened version, but yeah, I think that's what John is talking about. [00:43:19] Speaker E: Okay, cool. Then as my right as a facilitator book, I'm going to give you back that monologue token. Okay. [00:43:27] Speaker A: Cool. [00:43:31] Speaker E: Sweet. Well, he just said all of that. Well, how do you feel about that, Colonel? Don't. [00:43:45] Speaker B: Well, this is gonna sound strange. Well, everything for me sounds strange, I suppose. Especially the English Eaters. I think you're gonna find as you rise in station, that this layer of society isn't that much different from every other layer of society you may encounter. His Grace referred to his army as a. The very scum of the earth. And perhaps they were. But they did their duty and they had the same sort of questions of envy and pecking order that this lot has. [00:44:44] Speaker D: You speak so boldly of those I must impress. I envy you that. [00:44:51] Speaker B: Well, I know what I must appear to them, and it provides a certain. It provides a certain layer of armor. I could do my best to try and lessen my brogue a little bit. Maybe wear trousers as long as I'm here. [00:45:15] Speaker D: Perish the thought. [00:45:18] Speaker B: It wouldn't make a difference. They'd see me as I'm new. So I let them take. They can take me as I am, or they can send me on my way. Either way, I think I'll probably have a drink and a fair, fair couple of conversations before the night is out. Wherever I end up. I'm glad one ended up with you tonight. I clap him on the shoulder. [00:45:49] Speaker D: Likewise. Likewise. Now, forgive me. I must bend your ear about alternative currencies. [00:45:55] Speaker E: Moving right along. [00:46:01] Speaker A: Well done, gentlemen. [00:46:08] Speaker E: Oh, yes. Back to the ladies. On the far side of the party. On the other near the edge, Neil Graham. Neil Graham is a little older than the two of you. Taller, like lithe. Kind of like you'd Want to call him Genki, but you can see a little bit of muscle built underneath him. The Graham family has made its name very, very recently by investing in several properties overseas and trying to get their money that way, as they see what the. What the colonies will probably slowly become. And it's paying dividends in a large way. However, many people, especially around here, view it as like a very risky venture because, you know, it's money they can't see. They don't know what's going to happen in news travel, be that as it were, they have made a decent amount of coin and they're doing pretty well from themselves, having bought up a few properties in Upper Redwich and they recently acquired a manor, which is how your aunt heard about them in the first place. But your parents, they have a similar mindset of, hmm, do we want to throw our head in with this particular family? Seems a little iffy, but as the two of you know, places are limited right now and the money isn't exactly pouring in at the moment. But holler, live a good head and a half, taller than the both of you, clean shaven, like a well cut, well trimmed, a bright blue eyes and a very like. I don't know, he just radiates sunshine in a lot of ways. He's just like continuously smiling as he's talking to a few of the guests. And that's who you see as you approach. [00:48:15] Speaker C: Before we, before we fully get within listening distance to them, Catherine is just going to very subtly lean into Ellie and just. I don't. I don't know if I can do this, Ellie. I. I don't. He seems nice, but never mind. [00:48:44] Speaker A: By all accounts and purposes and everything that I've heard, he's a good man with a kind and gre Gregarious and open heart. Give him a chance. [00:48:57] Speaker C: All right. [00:48:58] Speaker A: You don't have to say yes today. You just have to say hello. [00:49:03] Speaker C: You're right. All right. It's just an introduction. I'm just glad to have you by my side right now. I don't know what I would do without you. [00:49:16] Speaker A: I'll smile. Grizz, remind me what his like, title is. [00:49:23] Speaker E: Oh, they currently don't have one and that's part of the whole issue. It's very new money. [00:49:28] Speaker A: And his last name? [00:49:30] Speaker E: Graham. [00:49:32] Speaker A: Say that again? [00:49:33] Speaker E: Graham. Sorry. [00:49:34] Speaker A: Graham. [00:49:34] Speaker C: Graham. [00:49:37] Speaker A: Ah, well, I will kind of give Catherine's hand or arm a pat because we're elbow and elbow as we wander and when we get close, I will give Mr. Graham the most, the widest smile. I can, while still being formal. Mr. Graham, may I introduce my sister, Catherine? [00:50:10] Speaker E: Hello. Oh, it's. It's so nice to finally meet you both. Lady Catherine gives you a small bow. Lady Heloise gives you a small bow. It is an absolute joy to meet you. I've heard. Well, I heard. Read so much about the both of you from your aunt's letters over the past several months. And it's nice to finally meet you both. I would hope it would have been sooner, but unfortunately I've been overseas for quite some time. But it is lovely to meet you both. [00:50:43] Speaker C: The pleasure is all mine, Mr. Graham. It is very nice to meet to make your acquaintance now. And she'll offer up a hand for him. [00:50:55] Speaker E: Yeah, you will kiss it. [00:51:00] Speaker C: I hope that you are enjoying the festivities today. My aunt is skilled at many things, and one of those is throwing lovely parties. [00:51:13] Speaker E: As an absolute blessing. The very idea that we're all getting together and celebrating spring. It feels nice to be warm again. I spent, well much of this past winter trying to get back over here, and when I finally got home, it was as cold as it gets. Though it was very nice to finally put on a light coat for a change. [00:51:37] Speaker C: I can only imagine. You said that you've been overseas for quite some time. May I ask where your travels took you? [00:51:45] Speaker E: Mainly to Boston and New York. I unfortunately won't be able to go much farther for quite some time. But we were doing our best to hold on to some older properties that we had acquired. And it's quite hard to do with how things are changing rapidly over there. So I had to go over there with my father for the better part of last year, and I've only recently come back. [00:52:11] Speaker C: Oh, that is quite astounding. Actually, I've never thought about traveling to the new World to. You must tell me what. What the people are like over there. [00:52:29] Speaker E: Industrious. So many things happening at the same time. Just buildings and houses springing up all over everywhere. Roads expanding quicker than you think. Not too fond of us, of course, but welcoming at the same time. It was odd. [00:52:47] Speaker C: H sounds quite adventurous. I have it on my hopes and dreams list to one day travel and see the new world for myself. I've always been interested in traveling. [00:53:13] Speaker E: Yes, well, the actual trip over there isn't the greatest, but I do believe there is a sudden cacophony of dogs barking as you see Neil just being like, goodness, what? And then they just, all 13 of them, just bowl him over just to get to you where you are. And Neil was the place where they wanted to be. So they moved him. And they all just surround you, Catherine, just, like, barking and everything like that. And they're tucking on your white gloves, and they're leading you just away from him. And it's kind of like they're forcing you to go. And you kind of turn, and you do see the good Colonel in all of his glory, standing in the midst of a green field with his good friend. The wind's blowing. He can see his hair moving slightly as he stands there with his arms around his friend, laughing about something, probably various forms of currency. [00:54:17] Speaker C: She'll look back as the dogs, with all of their strength, push Katherine away. And she'll just look back and just quickly say, I am so sorry. My. I'm okay. [00:54:33] Speaker E: Bella, Bella. [00:54:34] Speaker C: No, not my shoes. Not my shoes. [00:54:38] Speaker E: I mean, this. I mean, and for you, Eloise, like, you're just, like, seeing him talk to your sister and then just gets. It's like one of those. It's like little slapstick, but he just suddenly, like, vanishes from your vision and, like, a sound of dogs barking, and he just kind of, like, ate shit on the ground and he tried to pick himself, like. [00:54:56] Speaker A: Eloise looks horrified. [00:54:58] Speaker E: Oh, goodness. And you do hear your aunt off in the distance. I look away from them for one second. You see her running after the dogs as quick as she can. She's not exactly a quick mover. [00:55:12] Speaker B: I should like the Colonel to sort of see this as he's talking to John walk over in his best military manner. Just look at the whole squad of dogs and possibly the. The beleaguered would be suitor, and just bark, sit. [00:55:30] Speaker E: And they just stop, dead set on their haunches and just, like, stand to attention. Ears up, heads forward. [00:55:40] Speaker B: You gaggle of miscreants. [00:55:44] Speaker E: They all bow their heads. [00:55:48] Speaker A: Eloise is going to. To do one of those rare things where this very austere, usually pretty severe person kind of breaks with what is expected of somebody of her standing. And she is going to kind of crouch down and try to help Mr. Graham up. I am so sorry. This is. [00:56:10] Speaker E: Oh, it's quite. Oh, right. I've taken my fair share of noxious. [00:56:16] Speaker A: I can have one of the footmen see if they can get you a clean jacket. Oh, God. [00:56:22] Speaker E: Oh, no. Oh, good. Oh, and he's, like, holding his head and his hand comes away for. There's, like, a small cut up there. [00:56:29] Speaker A: Oh, goodness, yes. Let's get that scene to. And I'm gonna take his elbow and start leading him away from the gaggle of dogs. And to where there is help, like a member of staff to clean him up. [00:56:49] Speaker D: I think John is actually going to give chase on that point because he's not sure who that guy is. [00:56:54] Speaker E: No, I'm actually going to interrupt, so. Sorry, bp. As you're actually looking around for the help is, it does dawn upon you that there isn't actually that much in the way of help right now. So you're not quite sure where you're going to find them, given how busy they are with everybody else. [00:57:12] Speaker A: Well, I'll do my best to. I mean, the kitchen seems like a likely place to find a member of staff, given that this is a party with refreshment. So we are headed that way. [00:57:24] Speaker E: Yeah, but you do think to yourself as you're going, just like, luckily, that people are enjoying themselves enough, that this sign of lack of help doesn't actually mean anything quite yet. [00:57:40] Speaker A: Right? [00:57:41] Speaker B: Yes. [00:57:44] Speaker E: But sorry, going Back to you, Mr. Fielding, I didn't mean to interrupt, but it was a very important point for sure. [00:57:51] Speaker D: I was going to. Because I know that. I think I know that guy. And I don't know how I know him. And most of the people that I. [00:58:00] Speaker E: Know, that's somebody else. The one I described to you was not the person they were talking to. So that individual is standing up from his chair, covering his mouth, giggling to himself after witnessing the avalanche of dog on a poor gentleman that, well, was being introduced to someone he's been staring at the entire party. So there is that. [00:58:25] Speaker D: Cool. I think I'm gonna. [00:58:26] Speaker E: Sorry for misleading you. Didn't mean to. [00:58:28] Speaker D: All good. No, I think I'm gonna go talk to that guy. This guy I maybe recognize. [00:58:36] Speaker E: Okay. Okay. So we are going to resolve this in three stages. First, you now have 13 dogs standing to attention on in front of your feet, ready for your next orders. [00:58:53] Speaker B: Right? You miserable dogs. Return to your mistress immediately. Stop harassing the guests. [00:59:05] Speaker E: Do you use it the full weight of your military voice in that? [00:59:08] Speaker B: I do. And I point at Lady Caroline, who is still slowly making her way across the field. [00:59:18] Speaker E: Yes. They turn and led by Zarius, one by one. And the most sad dog walk like it's not a tiny fiddle. They deserve like a full orchestra. Just like, just on their way over, like thoroughly like. Oh, man, you should be. [00:59:43] Speaker B: You should be ashamed of yourselves. [00:59:45] Speaker E: Whimper into things like aching as they go. Of course. [00:59:53] Speaker C: The entire time, Catherine is very. Just beet red. [00:59:58] Speaker B: Lady Catherine, I apologize on behalf of the dogs since I can't imagine they'll find it in themselves to do so at a Later date. [01:00:09] Speaker C: There is no need to worry about it. Those dogs, they have some very distinct personalities of their own. I just don't know what's getting into them today. Usually they're so well behaved. It might be time for them to go out and really enjoy running around and getting some fresh air, I think. [01:00:37] Speaker B: Are they hunting dogs at all? [01:00:38] Speaker C: Um. I will be completely honest with you. The only thing that they know how to hunt is their dog food in the kitchen. [01:00:52] Speaker B: Oh. Well, I was figuring I would go see what sort of game was coming out for the spring. Probably tomorrow or the day after. I did have a question. He says, clasping his hands behind his back. You relate to me the circumstances by which Mr. Fielding and Lady Eloise came to be betrothed. [01:01:15] Speaker C: Oh, I believe it was arranged. Mr. Fielding is an up and coming in his field. I will not lie. I don't completely know what it is that he actually does. [01:01:37] Speaker B: Oh, he's a tailor. [01:01:38] Speaker E: He made me. [01:01:39] Speaker B: He made me this. He straightens his uniform slightly. [01:01:43] Speaker C: Then he is a man of great talent. [01:01:46] Speaker E: He is a. [01:01:46] Speaker C: Ducks. Very lovely on you. [01:01:50] Speaker B: Oh, well, thank you. [01:01:53] Speaker C: You're welcome. But my. My sister, Lady Louise, they've been betrothed since the late fall and everybody's very excited for the wedding. [01:02:09] Speaker E: Everyone? [01:02:13] Speaker B: He says with a slightly crooked grin. [01:02:18] Speaker C: Well, I. Maybe everyone. I don't. [01:02:30] Speaker B: Maybe everyone. Well, that's often best we can hope for, isn't it? Maybe everyone's excited. [01:02:39] Speaker C: Well, I'm just more concerned about my. My. My sister's happiness. And if this Mr. Fielding makes her happy. [01:02:53] Speaker B: Does he? [01:03:01] Speaker E: Go ahead. [01:03:03] Speaker C: I. I don't wish to speak for my sister. I. [01:03:09] Speaker B: Of course not. [01:03:12] Speaker C: I have far too much respect for her. [01:03:19] Speaker B: Would you permit me to escort you back to the punch bowl? You seem to have lost some of it. I believe some of it ended up on. I can never tell them apart. One of the dogs. [01:03:31] Speaker C: Oh, that is Beau. Yes, he will definitely need bath later. All of them might need a bath later. I might take them out to the creek at some point. Nonetheless, I would love an escort. I am getting a little warm. [01:03:57] Speaker B: I am at your service. [01:04:02] Speaker C: And she'll wrap an arm around his and attempt to look as calm and collected as possible. Hiding. Trying to hide any of her embarrassment. [01:04:18] Speaker B: You may feel free, but I was given back my monologue token. So. Hey, guess what? [01:04:24] Speaker E: Great. By the power vested in me by the state of Nebraska, you. I am allowing this monologue. Lady. [01:04:33] Speaker B: Lady Catherine. You have had three almost proposals and one Scotsman you're mooning over. What's Going on in your heart. [01:04:44] Speaker C: Oh, dear. [01:04:49] Speaker E: Curtains open on the stage. [01:04:54] Speaker C: I am terrified. Nothing today has gone correct. It was just supposed to be a party. Auntie told me that it was just a party. She didn't tell me about three proposals. She didn't tell me about a new man. That I needed to make myself formal, too. And people already have opinions about me. All I want to do is just take the pain away from Ellie. I know she doesn't want to be with this man. I'm doing everything that I can to protect her, despite the fact that she thinks that she needs to protect me. And I don't want any of it. I don't want them. This is bliss. Right now. No one's here whispering in my ear, telling me that I am now to bear responsibilities that I weren't. I wasn't even familiar with months ago. And it's just us. Been so long. And the last time that I saw him, Will was alive. And being close to him is like being close to my brother again. I don't know what I'm going to do. I don't know what the right path to take is. And all eyes are on me. What am I doing? What am I. What am I doing? I need to be more responsible. But I can't stop looking at him. This is going to be troublesome. Very, very troublesome. I'm sorry, Ellie. I'm trying the best that I can, but every turn I take, every move I make, everything that I say, I don't know if I'm making anybody proud. I just want to be happy. And I want you to be happy, too. And monologue. [01:07:42] Speaker E: Well said at the end of that. As you're walking back towards where the dogs are into the more interior part of the party, Catherine, there is something that you notice much. The things have already gone wildly in the wrong direction in many ways, but maybe slightly right, too. But you do kind of look off and you see behind your aunt, who's looking at you with maybe apologetic expression. Behind her, farther up, closer to the actual abbey itself, the concern faces of both of your parents. As I see you walking up with the good colonel and. Sorry. I was gonna say. We're gonna switch scenes real quick. Sorry about that. Unless you have something else to say. [01:08:55] Speaker C: Thank you again for walking me up. And I apologize again for the unruliness of all the dogs. [01:09:04] Speaker B: I am Lady Catherine. All the things anyone will ever have to apologize to me for. Unrulyness will never be one of them. [01:09:16] Speaker C: Well, then, would you like a drink? And she Gestures to the punch. [01:09:25] Speaker B: All right. [01:09:33] Speaker E: Mr. Fielding, are you asking? [01:09:42] Speaker D: Yes. [01:09:43] Speaker E: Okay. Sorry. You approach the gentleman that you keep clocking and you're not quite sure who it is, and he still, like he sat back down after having a good quiet laugh to himself. And he's enjoying whatever's in his cup. And he glances up as you approach. Oh. Good day to you. [01:10:12] Speaker D: And to you, sir. It is lovely indeed. Hope the party finds you well. [01:10:21] Speaker E: I'm doing excellent, my friend. It has been nothing if not greatly entertaining. And I'm glad to have helped spur things along, as it were. You, like. Takes a sip. [01:10:34] Speaker D: He's one of the suitors, right? [01:10:36] Speaker E: Yes. [01:10:37] Speaker B: Cool. [01:10:39] Speaker D: Quite so. May I join you? [01:10:41] Speaker E: Of course. [01:10:44] Speaker D: Take the seat. [01:10:47] Speaker E: I call someone over to give you a cup, but they seem in short supply. Takes another sip. [01:10:56] Speaker D: Indeed. I believe you're. I'm sorry that your intentions on Lady Catherine could not be more clearly presented. Forgive me. How did you. How did you and the good lady meet? [01:11:21] Speaker E: Whoa. Ah. What? She remembers your children and then lots of children. Children. Now, honestly damage parents nearly enough of the world. [01:11:43] Speaker D: Certainly the. [01:11:44] Speaker E: Oh, I'm sorry. Reaches out hand. Richard Fosley. [01:11:53] Speaker D: Do I know Mr. Fosley? As I shake his hand. [01:11:56] Speaker E: You do know of Sir Richard Fosley? His father is a baron in, like, a smaller region, like, adjacent to Red Witch. The Fosleys have been around for a hot minute. They made their money and then just kind of stayed quiet with it. They're usually incited. They're always around. People like seeing them at their parties because it means. Oh, the falsely. They're here. Good people know that name. Respected means I'm respected. Like people kind of use them to gain leverage or trying to equal out their own standing. And the Foslies are fully aware of that. And they're happy about it because it means no matter what. No matter what, they're always technically important, Right? [01:12:50] Speaker D: A party with a member of their family can be considered to have reached a reasonable standard. [01:12:56] Speaker E: Yes. And the reason you kind of. You just keep, like, scratching that itch of. Do I recognize him? You've definitely seen him at a few parties. Whether or not he's actually interacted with anyone who knows. But him being a suitor does. Does it is a little odd for their own moves because they don't make big moves like that, usually. [01:13:22] Speaker D: Interesting. Well, it is a pleasure to have a member of your esteemed company at such an event. If I may say so, I do not believe Ms. Katherine would hold it against me. Wait, hang on. Which one's the ant. [01:13:43] Speaker E: Carolyn. [01:13:44] Speaker D: I do not believe Ms. Carolyn would hold it against me to extend further appreciation for your presence. [01:13:53] Speaker E: No, no, of course not. You love me. Of course. [01:14:05] Speaker D: Is he wearing one of my suits? [01:14:08] Speaker E: No. But he's, like, staring at you intently, just like. Not enough about me. How are your own? How's your faring? Things going well on your end? [01:14:29] Speaker D: Indeed. I do not know if you know me well. Oddity in this circle, to be sure, but business is booming. I find myself in the frankly astonishing position of having attracted the attention of Lady Eloise and succeeded in securing her hand. So, were there a thing in the world for me to complain about, I should surely put it aside for all my success. [01:15:06] Speaker E: And do you believe the success will continue? [01:15:12] Speaker D: I am. I am too much a man of the world to believe that all things that are good are endless. But I foresee no immediate cause for alarm. [01:15:26] Speaker E: No? No. What about the bearing of the family you'd marry into? [01:15:34] Speaker D: I have every cause to respect their station. I wonder if you allude to a specific matter or if you seek to gain my illusions. [01:15:51] Speaker E: Oh, no, I have no illusions whatsoever. I'm fully aware of what their station is and where they're sitting. Makes me wonder how long they'll stay there. He like, straightens his coat. [01:16:06] Speaker D: Forgive me, sir, but you either imply an information of which I have no knowledge or pass what I can only consider to be an insult to my betrothed. [01:16:18] Speaker E: I would do no such thing. I'm clearly interested in marrying their daughter. And if they've been invited to so many of their past outings, I can't imagine a place I would rather be right now. I would never insinuate anything. [01:16:34] Speaker D: Precisely. And this being therefore not an insult, it is an implication. It is a suggestion of knowledge. I understand that we have just met and you have no need to bring me into your confidence, but as many of my friends will attest, my confidence can be a useful place to be, should you choose to share what it is you seem to know. [01:17:00] Speaker E: Oh, no, I can know. I could keep you in good confidence. I mean, James and I go way back. I'm aware of your dealings. I wear how you handle yourself. I am just concerned because I has considered throwing in my hat with you that you're going to put all the eggs in a basket with several holes in it. It's rapidly deteriorating. But I do actually have to be going. It would seem the person I wish to talk to is rather spin with somebody else. But that can wait. But for right now. And he'll give us ma bow, Mr. Fielding. [01:17:46] Speaker D: Certainly. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance and I look forward to future communique. [01:17:52] Speaker E: Of course, I'll reach out to you shortly. Just remember, you're. You are a booming success and you should cheat. Deeply proud. Deeply proud of where you are and how far you've reached. I just do hope you place your hand on something that isn't going to burn you, that he'll give a nod. [01:18:14] Speaker D: John gives him a smile and a nod that does not reach his eyes. [01:18:19] Speaker E: Oh, no, his smile is in his eyes, but it's about as, I don't know, mischievous as it gets. He's just big grin on his face as he nods at the smile and proceeds his way into the Abbey to exit out the front. [01:18:42] Speaker D: Interesting. Very interesting. [01:18:54] Speaker E: With that, we are quickly going to go inside the Abbey itself to the kitchen. Eloise, he has done his best not to lean on you this entire time and kind of maintain an upward position, but he is a little wobbly. He seems to have knocked himself a bit harder than you thought. [01:19:21] Speaker A: Yeah. Eloise is doing her best to have, like, minimal physical contact because she's already breaking with propriety. But when it becomes clear how unstable he is and that no help is coming, you know, she will kind of reach out and like, put her hand under his elbow to keep him steady. [01:19:44] Speaker E: Yeah. [01:19:47] Speaker A: It'S little touches, as small as she can manage, but still more than someone as prim and proper as she would typically do. [01:19:57] Speaker E: Yeah. He finally just not pulls his hand away, but stands up. Right, this is a good seat. And as you kind of get inside the door a little ways in, he just sits down. [01:20:13] Speaker A: All right, sit here. I'm going to go find one of the mates. I'm so sorry again. [01:20:24] Speaker E: Oh, it's fine. It's fine. [01:20:30] Speaker A: And I will. Yeah, we're in the kitchens. There's gotta be help here. There's gotta be at least one person. [01:20:39] Speaker E: No, no, no, no. I mean, if anything, it's like, fed. We're going to sit down for a second and you kind of see where all the help is now. Just like for the smallest a second. [01:20:47] Speaker A: Ladies of the fucking family bursts in and everybody's on their feet. Yeah, he's like, my lady, he's injured. [01:21:00] Speaker E: Two of the maids is like, scurry, like high speed maid scurry. Just like, oh, take care of him. [01:21:07] Speaker A: He's calling for like water. And I, as a player am not sure what at the time they would have used in the water to help clean a wound, but she's calling for things. And taking off her gloves. Like, she intends to be the one to fix it. [01:21:23] Speaker E: No, no, no, my lady. We got. We have this. It's okay. We can clean them up just fine. As they begin to take off his outer coat and then, like, clean up the dust and dirt off of him and put a quick bandage on his forehead. Legacy. At what point in the scene did you want to come in? I'm so sorry. [01:21:44] Speaker C: I'll have it. We'll have it. Be as she's. As Ellie is taking off her gloves and getting ready to help. [01:21:53] Speaker A: And then Auntie shows up. Oh, good, that's great. [01:21:56] Speaker E: Yeah, yeah. No, my lady. And then this is like, oh, where is he? I can't believe her. Eloise, what are you doing? No, they have him. It's okay. Do you have this? And the maids are just like, vigorous nodding. Like, we weren't sitting down. We could have prevented this from happening. And they do. But he does gently, like, just briefly, like, touch one of your hands, like. I do appreciate the effort you put in, though. I know it was a lot and thank you. I'm so sorry. [01:22:37] Speaker A: I'm sorry for it. Shall cut a gesture at his head. [01:22:45] Speaker E: No. I've always had a knock, knock, knack. I knocked my knack. I've always had a knack for hitting my head off. Whatever. I could hit my head off. And I'm falling. It hasn't done me well. But here I am. See, it's a little hard. As the maids continue cleaning him up and getting the blood off of his face and making him look presentable. [01:23:12] Speaker A: Eloise is just going to look at her aunt and she just looks vaguely exhausted. She's like, this has been a terrible day. Without saying anything. [01:23:24] Speaker E: It would be at this point. Your aunt's just like, I. I think. I think today went well. She, like, kind of stands up straight. Everyone had fun there. We didn't do quite everything I wanted, but we did. She got talking to you quietly after the side, but we did do plenty. We did begin to send everyone home. I think that'd be. [01:23:53] Speaker A: Thanks that that's wise. [01:23:55] Speaker E: Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes. Eloise. Oh, you did. You did wonderful, darling. [01:24:04] Speaker A: Thank you. [01:24:07] Speaker E: Oh, goodness. Looks outside and you know, she is right. Like, despite all the goofiness happening around everybody, this is Red Witch Abby. Like, they're. It's not like they're not, like, used to this, but, like, they know how to throw a party. There's always a scandal, there's always some chit chat. Something goofy happens and the food's good. So good start to spring and the you other three also see Eloise and Carolyn begin to bid everyone ado as it is like the sun's getting onto the other side and this is the point in spring where it's like getting closer to like three. So it's getting a little chilly and you really shouldn't be out here right now. We're not that warm. And we're going to slowly cut away the camera as the party comes to a close. So those for those of you who aren't fully knowledgeable about the good society, that was the end of our novel chapter. And now my lovely players, we are going to go into the next phase known as the reputation phase. So we got to assess Yalls behavior against your own reputation criteria and either talk about creating tags or removing tags as far as what you actually just role played out. Right. So we're just going to go down the line line here. Bp. [01:25:46] Speaker A: Yeah. [01:25:47] Speaker E: What's your reputation over there? [01:25:50] Speaker A: My reputation. My positive tag is austere and my negative tag is proud. [01:26:01] Speaker E: All right, so we are going to talk it through a little bit. Do you think that Eloise everybody earned another reputation deck? [01:26:18] Speaker B: Which background does she use? Because that's where the list comes from. [01:26:23] Speaker E: Yes. [01:26:24] Speaker A: My backgrounds are cornerstone and period, which I have to open the reference stuff for because it's been a hot minute. [01:26:39] Speaker E: It has been a second. Sorry, everybody watching. There's a lot to this day. [01:26:42] Speaker A: I set all of this up last year. [01:26:46] Speaker E: So in reference and announcements to everybody, if you scroll a little bit up, you'll see the character rule sheets and the family background sheet to look through. [01:26:54] Speaker B: I. I would argue that her. Her generosity to the dog beleaguered would be suitor could potentially so looking at. [01:27:13] Speaker E: That. [01:27:17] Speaker B: Acting in the service of duty in a way that compromised her desires. She didn't want to help this guy and certainly didn't want to take him to the kitchen and clean his wounds. So that might potentially lead to her gaining the giving positive tag. [01:27:42] Speaker E: How do you two feel about that? MVP can also put your input. [01:27:47] Speaker A: Yeah, definitely. [01:27:48] Speaker E: I agree. [01:27:49] Speaker D: Yeah, I think giving or caring, there's not really one called damage control, so. [01:27:57] Speaker A: Well, there isn't one called caring, but there it's influential, austere, wise, famous. Giving for positive and negative is vain, proud, vengeful, incompetent, mean spirited. So I feel like giving fits. [01:28:10] Speaker E: Yeah, go ahead and give yourself that tag. [01:28:18] Speaker A: I will do that as soon as I find the right tab. I don't have a million things open because I'm Running the stream or anything. Okay, got it. [01:28:34] Speaker E: Okay, Going down the line here. Book. [01:28:39] Speaker B: So what are the. Yep. I would. Based on the. Because the one thing that people saw him do that several people saw him do was talking about cooking steaks in dead people's armor. [01:28:59] Speaker D: Yeah. [01:29:00] Speaker E: That's probably how that happens. I'm thinking uncouth. [01:29:04] Speaker C: Yeah. [01:29:05] Speaker B: Maybe appropriate for having acted in contravention of society's conventions. [01:29:11] Speaker D: 100% to the point that even John saw a problem. [01:29:16] Speaker E: Mark it up. Uncouth. [01:29:18] Speaker C: Oh, no problem. [01:29:21] Speaker E: What are the odds? I mean, the kilt alone. Yeah. Wag in the breeze. [01:29:39] Speaker D: Here's a question. [01:29:40] Speaker E: Oh, go ahead. [01:29:43] Speaker D: I just. It occurred to me. John is wearing one of his suits, and it sounds like the Colonel is as well. Were either of the ladies. Did you get dresses from me? [01:29:58] Speaker A: Well, I mean, I feel like it's obvious that at least my dress came from you because we were dressed to match. [01:30:05] Speaker C: Katherine totally forgot that you were a tailor, so I'll leave that one up to you. [01:30:11] Speaker D: I mean, it feels business owner, but. [01:30:13] Speaker A: This was like the first outing as us being an engaged couple, so it seems like he would. John would probably want the family to look their best and would have out of pure kindness, obviously. Probably. As Christmas gifts provided new outfits. Yeah. [01:30:30] Speaker D: There's no social angling happening there at all. [01:30:32] Speaker A: No. [01:30:33] Speaker C: At all. [01:30:37] Speaker E: All right. [01:30:38] Speaker A: Can I propose the tag for Legacy's character and feel slightly guilty that it's not positive. [01:30:45] Speaker E: I will remove the guilty tag from the tag that you're trying to give and go ahead. [01:30:50] Speaker A: Given her fumbles, and there were many. I feel like incompetent. Makes sense. [01:30:59] Speaker C: They were the dogs. [01:31:01] Speaker A: They were all the dogs. You got yourself into a position where three different men were approaching you to try and court you. And the man that you were supposed to be talking to got attacked by. [01:31:15] Speaker E: Dogs and led away by your sister. Throw that out there. [01:31:21] Speaker D: I was going to suggest. [01:31:23] Speaker E: Yeah. [01:31:24] Speaker D: Negative tag from old money. [01:31:26] Speaker A: Self obsessed. [01:31:27] Speaker C: Can't. I think it has to come from. [01:31:29] Speaker A: It has to come from our background. [01:31:32] Speaker D: Gotcha. [01:31:35] Speaker E: Oh, you're good. [01:31:41] Speaker C: All right, sure. Then incompetent. [01:31:44] Speaker A: I'm sorry. I feel bad. [01:31:47] Speaker C: It's not a true Legacy character if I don't give myself that tag at least once. [01:31:52] Speaker A: Listen, I literally signed up to be the one who got caught in all of these awkward positions. [01:32:02] Speaker E: All right? And then we're just gonna go down to overthinker. [01:32:07] Speaker C: What's overthinkers again? [01:32:08] Speaker A: Oh, he is new money. Indeed. Oh, this is hard. [01:32:26] Speaker B: To be fair. I don't think John did anything to affect his reputation one way or the other in this. In this affair. [01:32:37] Speaker D: Yeah, I was low key. [01:32:39] Speaker E: The only thing that would have affected his reputation is that he was very visibly seen talking to Sir Richard. [01:32:48] Speaker A: Yeah, I was gonna say the one. The one that makes the most sense to me is ambitious because he was talking to Sir Richard. [01:32:54] Speaker E: Yeah. The Bosley family, if you're seen with them, you're trying to boost up your own shit, and you usually succeed in doing so, whether it be for ill or for good. [01:33:05] Speaker D: I also didn't await an introduction. I just went up to him. [01:33:09] Speaker E: Yeah, for sure. But he did recognize you immediately, so. [01:33:16] Speaker D: Yeah, yeah, I take ambitious. I don't think that's inaccurate. [01:33:25] Speaker A: Love that. [01:33:28] Speaker E: Heck, yeah. [01:33:32] Speaker A: All right, got to put it on your character card. [01:33:43] Speaker B: Good news is you don't trigger a reputation condition until you get your third deck. [01:33:48] Speaker E: Yep. All right, friends, that is the reputation part. And I appreciate you all for discussing it and agreeing to in a friendly manner. Love you all. I'm saying this because the rumor and scandal phase is next. So the rumor and scandal phase, we take a step back from our characters and this is where the society part of society comes into play. This is how the world views these characters after everything that has just occurred. Not the individual characters, the world that has. They have just seen you and reacted to you. Given that, we're going to be go around in a circle as if we had one, and take turns to either create or spread a rumor. We don't have any rumors yet, I believe. I don't think we did that during the collaboration phase. [01:34:44] Speaker A: We didn't set anything up. [01:34:46] Speaker E: No. So these are. This is our first round and all we're going to be doing is creating a rumor or a scandal. So we're going to go around the circle. We're going to pitch the idea, either create or spread a rumor. Each rumor can only be spread once, so. And we're going to. I'm going to record it in our Excel sheet under Rumor and Scandals. So the way also a rumor scandal works for everyone watching is that during the novel chapter, which will be happening during next session, you can either have spend a resolve token to have a rumored change in the story or remove one later on down the line as well. So if you don't like it right now, we can always change, but it won't change soon. This is how the world thinks. So we're going to keep to what we were doing. We're going to start with Bloodied Force One. Eloise. [01:35:47] Speaker A: Yes. Do the Rumors have to be about our characters. Or can they be about one of the other characters? [01:35:53] Speaker E: No, no, no. I'm just saying you're sincere playing. I'm sorry. That was confusing. But, no, it's about any of the characters or about character interactions or maybe just about the freaking four of it. Or about someone you've witnessed or saw. Keep that in mind. [01:36:12] Speaker A: Well, I kind of already, like, sowed a seed behind the scenes with one of my tokens, so I'm probably going to pitch that. That the rumor is that Eloise, trying to think of the best way to word it, wandered away from the party with a man who was not related to her or her intended without a chaperone. [01:36:51] Speaker E: Okay. So if you want to type that into the rumor and scandal, everyone all right with it? Yeah. Okay. [01:37:15] Speaker D: I mean, it happened. [01:37:22] Speaker E: All right. The keeper of the books. [01:37:27] Speaker B: Because I feel that this family is not dealing with enough strife yet. And in support of the evil Sir Richard, I'm going to spread that rumor. [01:37:37] Speaker D: Oh, dang. [01:37:40] Speaker A: Yeah. Okay. [01:37:41] Speaker B: So it's gonna catch on. [01:37:53] Speaker E: Marked. [01:37:53] Speaker A: It is spreading. [01:37:56] Speaker E: All right. [01:37:57] Speaker C: Yes. We're weaponizing it now. [01:38:02] Speaker A: My poor girl. She's trying her best. [01:38:07] Speaker E: Legacy. [01:38:17] Speaker C: I think. Oh, man. I don't know. Can we. Can we go to Overthinker and then come back to me? Because I'm still thinking Star Overthinker. [01:38:43] Speaker D: I think I'm actually going to capitalize on the element of ambition. Ooh, this is tough, because I have two ideas, because it's possible someone heard Mr. Fielding and Colonel Campbell when they were talking candidly about the nature of this engagement. So the rumor could be that's not really. That it's a tenuous match or that perhaps Mr. Fielding is not fit. Not a fit suitor. But it could also be that this is all ambition, that he's just here to meet someone like Sir Dick. I'm sorry, I forgot his real name. So he's Sir Dick now? [01:39:43] Speaker C: Sir. [01:39:45] Speaker E: Richard. Bosley, please. [01:39:48] Speaker D: Bosley. Gotcha. Cool. [01:39:52] Speaker A: Which one would you. [01:39:53] Speaker D: Opinions? I can go either way. I feel like we're already getting enough traction on the. What's up with this relationship? [01:40:03] Speaker C: So I was actually thinking something kind of similar. That you were just using the family because while they aren't with the money, they're still very well connected. [01:40:13] Speaker B: And I'll note, during the rumors candle phase, everyone gets two passes, so you could theoretically do both. [01:40:19] Speaker D: Cool. Yeah. Ambition. [01:40:30] Speaker A: All right. And I use my other pass to spread that. [01:40:37] Speaker B: Sure. [01:40:41] Speaker A: I'll click the button once. Every thinker has it typed in. [01:40:47] Speaker E: Bp I sent you something. [01:40:49] Speaker A: Oh, you did? My bad. [01:41:03] Speaker E: Okay. We are going to pause for just a moment. [01:41:07] Speaker A: You want to help Legacy come up with ideas while we wait. [01:41:14] Speaker D: Indeed. [01:41:15] Speaker C: So the other thing that I was thinking. [01:41:23] Speaker D: You gotta shoot down, sweaty. I'm sorry? [01:41:30] Speaker C: Homeboy's gonna have a heart attack by the end of the night. No, but the. The thing that I was. That I was thinking. It's a bit odd that the Colonel is here. Just in general. Would it be a bit of a stretch to say that maybe he is here looking to also make his way into high society? Not necessarily with the. Not necessarily with the family, but there are a lot of people of influence here in means of getting money. [01:42:26] Speaker A: Would be interesting. How do you feel about that book? [01:42:29] Speaker B: That is a perfectly reasonable rumor. [01:42:33] Speaker A: You want me to type that? Legacy. Yeah. [01:42:38] Speaker E: Sa. [01:43:05] Speaker A: All right. Well, I've used my two things, so. [01:43:12] Speaker D: Indeed. [01:43:15] Speaker C: So it's a plus three. [01:43:18] Speaker A: Look, I think we're back to you now. [01:43:21] Speaker B: Yeah. And I think I would like to start a rumor. I already spread one, so I just start one. There is. There is a rumor that Lady Caroline is considering in her bid to keep. Keep the Abby in the family, selling the dogs. [01:44:20] Speaker A: Oh, that might be the spiciest rumor yet. [01:44:23] Speaker D: Holy. Absolutely. [01:44:24] Speaker C: Absolutely. [01:44:26] Speaker A: I love that. That's so good. [01:44:32] Speaker E: Whoa. [01:44:34] Speaker C: I will use my second. My. My second one to sp. [01:44:46] Speaker D: All right. [01:44:48] Speaker C: Which means you gotta come up with one or spread another. [01:44:52] Speaker D: Ot My first rumor almost contradicts my second because it's. It is that perhaps John is more interested in Eloise than she is in him. [01:45:10] Speaker A: Oh, just rip my heart out of my chest, why don't you? [01:45:15] Speaker D: We have four episodes. We gotta get to it. [01:45:19] Speaker A: I like that, though. That's good. [01:45:27] Speaker D: Which I think is really what came out of that conversation in the woods. [01:45:31] Speaker B: What? [01:45:32] Speaker D: Some passerby hanging out in the field, I assume. We got to the edge of the field and someone was, like, sitting on a bench on the other side of some trees, and they heard me being vulnerable. [01:45:49] Speaker B: I appreciate that. I appreciate that brewing the tea to spill is a fixed part of the game. [01:45:57] Speaker C: Absolutely. [01:45:58] Speaker A: Indeed. [01:46:09] Speaker D: So what now? [01:46:13] Speaker A: I think we just sort of. [01:46:15] Speaker C: We just got away for Grizz shoot the. [01:46:17] Speaker A: Because our. Our facilitator is AFK at the moment. [01:46:24] Speaker B: Coming up. Coming up next will be the epistolary phase. So those of you stressing over dictating letters to people may want to start. [01:46:35] Speaker A: Welcome back. [01:46:36] Speaker E: Welcome back. [01:46:37] Speaker C: Welcome back. [01:46:38] Speaker A: So we settled on. The Colonel is here to climb the social ladder by being in the vicinity of the Beaufort family's connections and social circle. Okay. Lady Caroline, in an effort to save the abbey, is considering selling the dogs, which has been spread and I don't. And, oh, and somebody overheard Mr. Fielding telling Colonel Campbell that feels truly. [01:47:10] Speaker D: Blessed by his relationship and isn't sure. [01:47:13] Speaker A: Feelings might be a little one sided in the engagement. [01:47:18] Speaker E: Okay. [01:47:20] Speaker A: Oh, yeah, well, we, we, we wanted to do something while you were away. [01:47:27] Speaker E: No, I appre. Well, I mean, that's the best part about this. Hands off. It's great. Oh my God. This is great. I am so happy right now. [01:47:35] Speaker A: Okay. [01:47:35] Speaker B: Are you. [01:47:36] Speaker A: What's happening? I'm just, I'm looking at the sheet and then the last one isn't in there, so. [01:47:57] Speaker E: You know, Mr. Richard's gonna have a field day. [01:48:02] Speaker A: Yeah. There are some really not nice NPCs in. In the, in the social circles that are going to have a really, really good time with all this terrible stuff we're doing to ourselves. [01:48:15] Speaker E: Yeah. Tasty treats. All right. All right. And I appreciate you guys continuing. All right, so with that. All set. And you're all happy with it. Excellent. We're going to go to the epistolary phase. So this is like. For those watching, this is the equivalent of like writing a letter to someone. This is like, this is what you're thinking, this is what you want them to know. And this will influence the next novel chapter, of course. So more or less. How it goes is a player has to state who the letter is from either themselves or a connection that they play and who will receive it. And then you're going to dictate the contents of the letter out loud. But there are no rules of what you can include on the letter, but the normal rules for making sure everyone's okay with it and the user resolve tokens apply. And don't forget if you want to spend a monologue token. This is all said and done to see what the character is thinking you're more than able to do. So you can Send up to 2 for everyone's information just to keep that all, like, straightened out. So again, we will start with bp. [01:49:47] Speaker A: It's always me. [01:49:49] Speaker E: Okay. We'll start with Overthinker. Goodness. I don't know. The other way around. Yeah. All right. Overthinker, Go. You're good. Let's do it. I believe in you. [01:50:02] Speaker D: Okay. [01:50:03] Speaker A: No, no. Excellent. Perfect. [01:50:06] Speaker C: Best letter I think I've ever had to listen to. [01:50:10] Speaker E: Hit it. [01:50:15] Speaker D: Okay, hang on. So trying to decide if I'm going to reach out to a contact or if I'm just going to Stay on the note that I'm on. And I think I'm going to stay on the note that I'm on because it'll be more tragic. [01:50:32] Speaker E: Also, if you want to receive a letter, you can use resolve tokens to initiate letters written by other major characters, connections or someone else entirely. So keep that in mind. And then I'll be the one, like, giving out the letter to you. And then we can negotiate what the letter actually says. If I'm the one doing it, of course. But it's up to you. [01:50:57] Speaker D: We had two letters. [01:50:59] Speaker E: Mm. [01:51:02] Speaker D: Cool. Let's start with the nice one. Mr. Fielding has had to go back to town for a couple of. Maybe up to a week or two to attend to some business. The. Our successful tailoring business is profitable, but it doesn't run itself. So while away, I send a message back to my betrothed. Because I can twist the knife. And why not? My dear Lady Eloise. My heart is saddened by the absence, but I am sustained by the promise of company rejoined. Business is good. All that I do here works to further a more comfortable life for us in the future. And I hope that as it is in the interest of all you, do not begrudge me this time with my nose to the proverbial grindstone. I know the city is not to your preference, but I hope you will come around and see its many virtues. As I have lived here for so many years and find myself missing it when I am away, I. Excuse me. [01:52:44] Speaker E: This is all written out? [01:52:45] Speaker D: Oh, absolutely. [01:52:47] Speaker E: Cough. Cough. [01:52:49] Speaker D: Forgive me. I have taken slightly ill and may be delayed a few days longer. Fear not. I'm told it will pass quickly. The doctor has been and gone twice and assures me all is well. I wish to speak to you on a trifling matter. Upon my return. I made acquaintance with a most interesting fellow, and I find myself questioning certain matters that were broached. I'm sure all will be well and look forward to many happy returns. Yours, John. And that's it. [01:53:50] Speaker E: Okay. [01:53:51] Speaker A: Yes. Just rip my heart out of my chest, OT Jesus. Okay. [01:53:58] Speaker E: Yeah. That's what I'm here for. All right. You're sending the one, then I will. [01:54:05] Speaker D: Send a second, but I'd like time to figure out what it's gonna say. That's all right. [01:54:18] Speaker E: Sure. Go ahead. [01:54:22] Speaker A: Do my first one. [01:54:24] Speaker E: Okay. Go ahead. [01:54:26] Speaker A: I'm gonna send it in response to my int. Mr. Field, I would never dream of begrudging you the time required to see to your commitments and value the effort and focus that you put into all that you hold so dear. While it is true that I have never found myself particularly fond of the city, I do hope one day that you will show me all about it that you enjoy so greatly and enlighten me to the things that I have been missing in the meantime. They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder. And while it might be a bit lonely without present company, I will endeavor to endure. Yours, Eloise Beaufort. And that's. That's my first letter. [01:57:01] Speaker E: Yeah, it was warm and heartfelt. [01:57:06] Speaker A: Very formal. [01:57:09] Speaker D: Oof. [01:57:09] Speaker E: It's like I said in Chad, it snowed while you were writing that. All right, Booker. Legacy. Do you have a letter? I do. Hit us with it. [01:57:24] Speaker B: I'm gonna. So this is a letter from my connection, Jonathan. Okay. Would be suitor sent to lady Catherine, in which he says. [01:57:44] Speaker E: Yeah. [01:57:45] Speaker B: My dearest lady Catherine, I am obliged in the writing of this letter to beg your most gracious pardon for my inauspicious effort to speak with you during the evening at Redwich Abbey. I have no excuse besides that of a man transported from his reason to that place from which poets are said to return with celestial verse. I cannot now say with certainty that you recall me, but this was not my first trip to Redwich Abbey. I have been present before in the company of then captain Thomas Campbell. When he introduced us, you, in your youthful way, were in the process of organizing an expedition of the woods near the abbey in search of, as you put it, diabolical French spies. The captain did, of course, immediately enlist in this effort and drew me into your company upon our return from abroad. I am pleased to discover that your career as a spycatcher has given way to a lady of the highest breeding and most stunning beauty. Indeed. I can now count my evening at Redwich Abbey, despite my unfortunate and deplorable behavior as some of the happiest hours I have experienced. Please accept my most sincere apologies. And if you would permit me to call upon you at some time in the future, you would make me indeed one of the happiest men in all of England. Yours most sincerely, Major Jonathan Masters. [01:59:23] Speaker E: You know. [01:59:26] Speaker A: We'Ve all just been wildly outclassed by book. Like there's no coming back from this. [01:59:31] Speaker E: What the fuck am I running with? So. So the brief time that you overheard his conversation with the good colonel, compared to the letter that you just read, he is very well spoken when written. [01:59:49] Speaker B: Yeah, he might have had. He might have had help. [01:59:52] Speaker E: Oh, sure. But like, in person, it's like, is this man. He's really good at It. Wait a minute. Well done. That was beautiful. Do you have another letter or anything off the cuff that you wish to say? [02:00:09] Speaker B: I. I am going to. I am not going to produce a second letter, but if I am struck with a. A resolve token to produce one, I will be. I will prepare myself to do so. [02:00:22] Speaker E: Understood? Legacy. [02:00:31] Speaker C: This letter will be in response. Admiral Jonathan, the entire time that she's writing this letter, she's trying to like, really fight off laughter, if we're being honest. Admiral Jonathan, it was a pleasure to make your. To reacquaint myself with you after all of these years apart. I see that you still have as much spirit and heart in you as when I was younger and it is good to see that your missions have proven successful and very bringing great pride to our country. I am glad that my times as a French spy catcher have proven useful and aiding to your missions. And I'm very glad to know that you are home safe and well. Our time apart has put a lot of things into perspective for me and you are a man that is far more kind and caring than I am. Then I feel that I should be allowed to take. These letters are full of spirit and passion, and I can tell that you are one to take kind and curious care when preparing them. I appreciate you reaching out to apologize for what had happened during the party, but if I do say so myself, you have nothing to apologize for. We all found each other in a very interesting time and though unexpected, your interest is very kind. I am not a mass of the spoken word myself. I am not a mass of the written word. So please forgive my shortcomings in this letter, but speaking with you again is always a pleasure. I hope that in the coming months if you do call on me and we are able to meet again, that it is under more calming circumstances. Parties have never been something I am quite active in planning or being a part of. Some may blame my youth, some may blame my ignorance. I just say it's a personal preference. Thank you again for reaching out to me and I really do look forward to seeing you again. Hopefully this time in better circumstances than last. Sincerely yours, Lady Catherine. [02:03:59] Speaker B: And so I will spend Jonathan's other resolve token to have him read only the parts that that tell him. She's into you, dude. [02:04:11] Speaker A: Amazing. [02:04:15] Speaker E: How much you know what? Keeping in the spirit of this game and because your last letter was so beautifully done, you can have that back. Well done. Goodness. Speaking of letters, overthinker, do you have your other one or are you good? [02:04:40] Speaker D: I do, though I've forgotten his name again, sir. [02:04:47] Speaker E: And this is where the adults come into play. Sir Richard. Sir Richard Fosley. [02:04:54] Speaker D: Fosley with a B. [02:04:56] Speaker E: No, F, A, W, S, L, E, Y. Fossley. [02:05:01] Speaker D: Cool. Sir Richard Fosley. It was an honor to meet you directly in the course of the party at Redwich Abbey. And I must apologize in the name of good manners for what affront I might have given in the directness of my approach and a lack of manner on my part that might have been taken as unkind. I find your interest in my fortunes most flattering. Your family is well known and your presence speaks volumes to the quality of our hosts. I shall be in town for a week and entreat you to join me for a drink on Hertfordshire street. Yours, et cetera, Mr. Fielding. [02:05:47] Speaker E: Okay. [02:05:49] Speaker D: And I would like to demand a response. [02:05:55] Speaker E: With your other resolve token. [02:05:57] Speaker D: Indeed. [02:05:58] Speaker E: Okay. Like you can demand it, but you gotta do something. For. [02:06:02] Speaker D: Yes, I would like to spend my other resolve token to get a response. [02:06:19] Speaker E: My good friend, Mr. Fielding. But of course, I'd be happy to join you. I can't wait to better get to know you and see who the kind of man you truly are. Because I see your ambition. I see your drive. I see what you want to do and where you want to go with this business and how. Forgive me, I get very excited when I'm thinking about it and it translates to my writing clearly. But I always love to meet with you. But I would love the opportunity to get you no better. And you're intended, of course. The Beaufort family for artists and purposes is just as grand and as wonderful as it always had been. In its luster will always remain shining no matter the size of the pile. I can't wait to see you. Mayhaps at the next gathering. Mayhaps sooner. Ah. Unfortunately, I won't be able to make that appointment, but I will reach out to you as soon as I can. Say hello to a Lady Eloise and Lady Catherine for me. The fossil. [02:07:44] Speaker D: Ooh, I hate this guy so much. This is great. I may be wrong to be going this aggro, but I am. And that's the choice that I've made. [02:07:54] Speaker A: So you're not wrong. [02:07:56] Speaker C: The good society, the knife fight behind. [02:08:02] Speaker A: Behind the manor house. Let's do it. [02:08:04] Speaker E: Yeah. No matter the. The shine and glory will remain the same no matter the size of the pile. I mean, such a diss. Yeah. [02:08:13] Speaker D: Such a royal diss. [02:08:18] Speaker E: Yeah. That was good. So you'll meet a glorious end. Probably at the end of a fucking sword. [02:08:26] Speaker D: Somebody's gonna. [02:08:28] Speaker E: So, bp. Did you have another one? You don't have to send two. We can if you want to. Sure. [02:08:41] Speaker A: I'm going to write to my good friend and former tutor, Daniel. [02:08:49] Speaker E: Oh, okay. [02:08:50] Speaker A: Who we haven't seen yet. [02:08:55] Speaker E: Not yet. [02:08:58] Speaker A: Daniel, we missed you at my aunt's party. Though I think perhaps that may have been on purpose on your partner. Rest assured, you missed absolutely nothing. It was, as per usual, the typical affair. And then she skips to a new paragraph. I'm kidding, of course. My aunt's dogs manage to accost the very man she intends my sister to wed. A unusual Scotsman by the name of Colonel Campbell regaled us all with stories of cooking steaks on the damaged. What? Breastplates, I believe he called them. Of French soldiers, so that others. Well, let's say the things people suspected, is not something that should have been discussed in polite society. And yet it was. My sister has, as usual, managed to turn every head in the room, even at inauspicious moments. And I struggle to keep everything marching in right order, as my brother would have said. When are you coming home? You are dearly missed. And I find my mind is cluttered without you here to help me sort my thoughts out. Mr. Fielding is proving, as usual, to be the perfect gentleman, though he's away in London for a time. And I admit it is a bit easier to breathe when there's so few people around. Say, for you, ever your friend, Eloise. [02:11:42] Speaker E: Now for my other players, I am. He wouldn't call myself a chaos goblin, but if I was one, now would be the time to spend a monologue. [02:11:55] Speaker A: Hold on, I'm not done yet. I have a resolve token, too, and I want a response from my bestie. [02:12:05] Speaker C: Yeah, and I still have a letter that I need to write. [02:12:08] Speaker E: I'm just saying, if I want to spend a monologue token. Not one time. My dear Eloise, as always, it is an absolute joy to hear from you. I'm not terribly surprised how the first spring event went. The dogs are finally able to go outside because your aunt keeps them inside as long as possible. There's always going to be one forerunner that does something strange at a party and. Well, I'll be home as soon as I can. I have spent much of my time abroad trying to get to know myself better. I spent so much time in the abbey and among your family that I haven't really gotten a chance to explore and understand myself better. But I do know I'm a better individual when you are around. Your friendship has always been Incredibly dear to me. And I apologize I can't be there for you now while it is so lonely in that house. As far as Mr. Fielding is concerned, well, I was there. And I think I hadn't made an audible harrumph when he did actually propose. Not that there's anything wrong with him. I just. How do I put this in a meta befitting someone of my demeanor. I just don't like him. I'm sorry. I don't. It's official. I don't. I. I don't want you to make a decision that you're just going to hate for the rest of your life. However, I understand that you also do need to do this for your family. I will be there to talk you through this as soon as I possibly can. I should be home maybe in a few weeks. Maybe in time for the next party. I do hold out for me as long as you can. I'll be there soon. And can you do me a favor? Can you give a friendly kiss on the forehead to Bailey, Bonnie, Bess, Brynn Blair, Bella Brutus, Baron Bernard, Bo Bentley, Bootsy, and of course, Sirius? I miss them all so much. My little group of gremlins. Truly yours and forever yours, Daniel. [02:14:46] Speaker A: My bestie is the best bestie. I love it. Okay, that's good. I think I've done both of my letters, so I'm good. [02:15:07] Speaker E: All right, Legacy. [02:15:11] Speaker C: Yes. I have my second letter that I would like to write to a Colonel Thomas Campbell. [02:15:20] Speaker E: All right, everyone, get out the napkins. Heartstrings. We'll be tugged. [02:15:24] Speaker D: Here we go. [02:15:25] Speaker E: Proceed. [02:15:31] Speaker C: Dearest Colonel, I hope this letter finds you in good health. I must apologize again for all of the mishaps at the latest party. Truly, like I told you before, I thought I had a better reign on the dogs. But unfortunately, the first party of spring makes everybody a bit more. More eager to get out and explore. Even those with four paws and tiny personalities that seem larger than life. Your stories of the war intrigue me. It is not often that I'm able to bask in stories of times far away from our homes. And since the passing of our dear brother William, I find myself growing bored of hearing stories of high society every night. It's refreshing, despite what the others might think. I'm eager to hear more, if you're ever willing to share. Perhaps over tea sometime. It is the spring, and the flowers are in full bloom. And while we are in the state that we are in, the rose garden has always been one of my favorite places. I'd love to show it to you sometime. If you are ever willing. It is good to see you after all these years. I know that the last time we had spoken, I was but a mere child. But I have since then grown in personality and in courage. It takes a lot for a woman to go through the ins and outs of trying to refine herself in society, especially in high society. And while sometimes I feel as though I'm struggling, it is good to know that there are people around you to keep you grounded. Thank you for blessing us with your company. It is always good to see that a dear friend of my brothers is able to come and join us. And I am forever grateful that somebody made it home safe. I hope to hear from you soon, warmus. Regards, Lady Catherine. And the letter has a. Has a faint smell of a rose cologne. And I am going to spend my monologue token to see what Colonel's reaction is going to be to that letter. [02:18:46] Speaker E: All right. [02:18:48] Speaker B: Monologue it is. I guess. It's interesting that she talks about finding herself. [02:19:02] Speaker E: She's. [02:19:04] Speaker B: She's still a wee stripe of a lass, isn't she? She's not a way in as such. [02:19:14] Speaker E: But. [02:19:17] Speaker B: She talks about being bored by stories of high society and delighted in my. I don't have story stories. I have of my time in France. That was probably. That one was funny. Thought it was funny. Maybe a little inappropriate. No one wants to hear what happened to Quattro Brass or Waterloo and this. This girl. If I were simply here to try and sell my Colonel's commission and find myself a place where I could live quietly for the rest of my life. [02:20:09] Speaker E: Maybe. [02:20:11] Speaker B: Possibly. But not with what has happened, Dougie. Not with what has happened at home. I have a responsibility to my family and to Argyle, and I must see it through. If I can just find someone who will not look at me as the shade of a dead sibling or as His Grace, before my parents show up and reveal all, then. Then I shall count myself a lucky man. End monologue. [02:21:06] Speaker E: Nice. Okay. [02:21:18] Speaker D: Who hasn't monologued yet? [02:21:21] Speaker B: Me. [02:21:23] Speaker E: That's true. [02:21:25] Speaker D: I'd like to spend my token to find out where Eloise is at. [02:21:37] Speaker A: Or anything in particular. You want me to react to the. [02:21:43] Speaker D: Kind of respondents of my letter in yours. But also. Yeah, the state of affairs in general. [02:22:05] Speaker A: I wonder if this is what drowning feels like. On the one hand, my parents may never pull themselves out of the grief brought by my brother's death. On the other hand, my sisters desperately treading water, trying to keep her head above the waves. And doesn't Know which way land is. Our aunt has opinions on everything and everyone. And here I am trying to be the raft to which everyone is clinging. And I'm told that this, Mr. Fielding, is the sail to which I must be tethered in hopes of reaching safe harbor for my family. So why am I so sad? Why do I think of a future with a man who clearly cares about me and seems to want what's best for me and for all of us? Why do I look at that? [02:23:45] Speaker E: And. [02:23:48] Speaker A: Why do I look at all of that and feel as if I am. As if I can't breathe? Why? I know it's selfish to want more than this. William is gone and it is my job to save the family from its own ruin. I must look away from my family spendthrift ways and try to steer my sister in a way in a direction that will have an outcome of a respectable and prosperous union. But I don't know how. Not really. And all I want is to feel like I can look at someone and that someone could look at me the way my sister seems to look at anyone. With that lust for life and that desire for love and ability to give it that I seem to struggle with. Perhaps I should just be content. I wish someone had taught me how to be content. End model. [02:26:13] Speaker E: Well said. Okay, now that all of that's been said, I have a few letters that I'm going to send to people. Let's see, the first one is going to be to Catherine from your good friend Jasper. I cannot hear you. What? [02:26:56] Speaker C: I said. Ah, yes. Jasper, how wonderful. [02:26:59] Speaker E: Couldn't hear you at all. How close were the two of you? Like real, real close. Like best buds. [02:27:10] Speaker C: Literally. Like best friends. Yeah, like two peas in a pod. She would probably. He probably knows everything about her. [02:27:24] Speaker E: Then. Yeah. Catherine, this is a short and sweet, but are you okay? I've heard way too much and just this past week and I wasn't at the party and I'm so sorry. I said I was going to be and I wasn't able to. It is a very long ramble. But it's like it's. I mean, I've heard something about multiple suitors and the dogs attack someone. I will be there in a few short weeks. I got held up at home. I was a bit too far away and we aren't quite ready to leave yet. But I will be there as soon as I can. Write me back when you can. Probably not. You probably won't give me anything. But you didn't say yes to anyone, did you? Of Course you didn't. You probably definitely talked to me about it first because I mean that's what we do. We talk about everything and you didn't send me anything and I got concerned. I just hope you're okay. Jasper with another note. Love you. Always concerned and slightly maniacal as Jasper. [02:28:28] Speaker C: Yes, absolutely. [02:28:31] Speaker E: Yes to Mr. Feeling. [02:28:40] Speaker D: Yes. [02:28:41] Speaker E: This is from James. John. I'm not sure you've been up to in the short time that we've been apart. I was only taking a short trip to France when I got home and saw a particular interest of a letter in my desk. The Fosley family, the barons. The Baroness Fosley. I. We've done a lot of business together but they. They seem deeply interested in me and they said you mentioned me and I. I deeply appreciate it my friend. They are interested in investing so much money into a lot of the things I have to do and I. They're going to meet with me in a few days. Their son's actually coming down to talk to me very shortly. And I appreciate it my friend. You didn't have to. And just. This is going to mean a lot for all of my own ventures and I deeply appreciate it. Richard seems like a good man and I can't wait to talk to him more so I thank you. Your good friend James. [02:30:05] Speaker D: Motherfucker. [02:30:17] Speaker E: And the last one is to Catherine in again. This is from Daniel, your sister. Sh. It's very. It's a. It's a little short but it's just sweet. Catherine, it's. How are you? It's Daniel. Of course you can see that. But I. I'm writing you just this quick letter. I'm going to be back in Redwich in a few short weeks, quick as I can. I hope all is well. I. I'm sure at the first part of the year I'll coincide. I. I hope you are right as well. But I'm going to be back as soon as I can to aid you both in whatever I can do. I hope the set of finds you well. Don't worry about all of the rumors or whatever what have you. Just keep being yourself because that self is beautiful and I. I hope you find what you're looking for before I even get there. Just hold out strong and ignore all the buzz because that's not what the world is about. Your friend dead and that's that. All right. Oh, are we having audio issues? [02:31:50] Speaker A: No, we're good. [02:31:52] Speaker E: Okay. On brand. Let's go. [02:31:58] Speaker A: There may have. There may have been some connection issues earlier that impacted my audio during my monologue. I apologize, folks, but unfortunately, there's nothing I could do about that. [02:32:07] Speaker E: Right. But I think for the end of this, we are going to do the upkeep off camera to keep this nice and concise. But I thank you all for playing this first episode of Betrothed and Betrayed. It was absolutely wonderful. I hope you all had fun and we will end it here for the night. Thank you all for watching.