Fleurs Nobles: De La Quinne

The De La Quinne family is a formidable player in the social landscape of Vertange. 
As one of the Fleurs Nobles, they command vast resources and have their schemes tangled through a lot of what high society has to offer, from balls to the court of the Emperor himself.

Due to the power that inherently comes with this, the family sees division within its own ranks while presenting a united front to the outside. In order to prevent the internal division sowing discord within their ranks, the family has chosen four areas on which to focus and assigned family Elders to each task, with a Regent, an Enforcer and an Heir for each branch. Should something happen to the Elder, the Regent can take over until the Heir can realise their potential. The Enforcer steps in when disputes within the family branch happen.

For the Court of Shadows, those who serve as the hands and eyes for the Night Queen, this Elder is Rosa. Wise and cunning, this schemestress has held on to her position for over thirty years, elevated from the status of Heir at the young age of 35. 
As Regent, she has chosen Sofia, the current High Priestess of the Night Queen. Her Enforcer is not of the blood, but married into it: Isidora Sevresa, who in turn is the mother of Jean-Jacomo, the Heir of Shadows.

For the Court of Coins, the ones who focus on dominating trade and the public relations for the family, the Elder is Julia. Julia has an innate sense for the good in people and the ways in which she can bend that to the advantage of the De La Quinne. 
As Regent, she has Damiano, the master of the Docks. Cosimo, a retired battlefield captain with a soft spot for cats, serves as the Enforcer. The Heir of Coins is Casimina, a talented tradeslady just past her temps du Gallina.

The Court of Crimson is where the military power of the family is concentrated. Led by Silvio, a dashing silver fox with an immaculately kept moustache, the Court of Crimson is known to be active in many dueling competitions and exhibitions, though they cannot match the sheer skill of the Benotti. 
The Regent of the Crimson is Viviane, a markswoman who can spell out her name in arrows at a range of 100 meters. The Enforcer is Giada, wielder of the Trident of the Third Wave, a legendary weapon said to have belonged to an ancient pirate lord. The Crimson Heir is Ilana, winner of the last two Grand Melees.

The Court of Masks has been extremely closely aligned with the Court of Shadows under the rule of Elder Beatricé. An intelligent lady who knows well the tides of preference within society, Beatricé has aligned with Rosa after a vision of the Night Queen promised her great power.
The Regent, Alessia, is not fully in agreement with the arrangements made by Beatricé but she is willing to wait for an accident to happen to the Elder before making a move against the Shadows.
Enforcer Martino is a dour man, but his permanent scowl is usually seen as a sign he is deep in thought rather than just bitter. Stella, the Heir, has recently seen her fiftieth summer, making her the youngest of Heirs, but she has spent much of her childhood observing how the Fleurs interact and begins to form her own opinions as to how she will run the Masks once she comes into power.  

 

People of import to Jim of the House of Three Crossed Beams

There is some overlap with the NPCs for this one, but these are the folk that seem to have an importance for Jim, be that either in a financial sense or on a more personal level.

Fleurs Nobles:

Eugene Priati - Elf. A man of the cloth, can usually be found leading the Temple of the Lady of the Scales at the Plaza Equines, where the stables for the city guard are also located. Eugene has a reputation for being addled, yet exceedingly kind. 

Salvadore Duree - Human, usually called upon to organize the Moon Revels, a set of soirees that link into the Moon's aspects. From full mystery at a Maschera at the start to the opulent banquet at the end, Salvadore has everything working like clockwork, which has led to the Galettos practically worshipping the ground he walks on.

Hermant Duree - Human, a man of great resource, Hermant has made his fortune through shipping. Now, nearing his fiftieth year, he seeks to find a suitable heir for the naval fleet (12 ships and 2 more to be finished) he has built up.

Sandre Benotti - Half human, half elf, the Lady Sandre is a recognizable individual throughout Vertange, as she runs the Dulce Frustum, a successful chain of specialized candy stores, catering to the rich and extravagant.

Tangui L'Equichant - Dwarf, keeper of the Kennel, the best breeder of his generation. Tangui has an eye for the best characteristics of all manner of animals, which has made him one of the wealthiest individuals in the City. After all, a good watchdog may alert a family of intruders, but the best will bring down the intruders without much trouble. 

Francois Du Treve - Human, said to be the future for house Du Treve when it comes to the courtly matters. Graduated summa cum laude at the Grand University. In spite of this, he is extremely biased in favour of humans and elves, considering most other races to be lesser in both body and mind.

Luna Du Treve - Halfling. Luna is a diligent lawyer, though when there are no cases, she will restlessly examine the bottoms of her glass in the Absconding Dawn.

Robrigo Sombri - Human. Master of the Arx Infractorum, one of the eight Tidal Fortresses that form the outer defenses of Vertange from the sea. 

Lucius Tesodi - Elf. Lucius is almost a synonym for fashion within the higher circles of society. Where he leads, the others follow. Season in, season out, Lucius creates such masterpieces out of fabric that all stand in awe.

Honora Du Calle - Dwarf. The Lady Honora has been in charge of the main prison of Vertange (Saxum Catenatum) for two years and seems to be getting used to the role as director. She needs more allies in order to push through reforms in the Catenatum, but according to her that is only a matter of time.  

Robert Sumquaes - Human, Robert's a frequent traveler to both the upscale salons of the Jardin and the dives in the Area Vulgaris. He is known to be happy to throw his inheritance around, both in coin and more physical endeavors, and his indiscretions have caused his father Iulius Sumquaes many a headache. 

Vulgari:

Calpar - Dwarven wine merchant, came down from near Altharion to make his fortune, currently sitting in the middle of the pack, not earning the best coin, but able to spend a good amount without falling short of cash.

Malin - Dwarven ex-army chronicler, now full-time scholar. In younger days, she seems to have been quite the explorer and inquisitive mind, which has earned her free passage into the Grand Library.

Outsiders:

Beozrik Umbregon - Human leader of the Varangian Guard. Has personally defended the honour of the Emperors Argentonze and Argentize before retiring from active duty to a more ceremonial posting. 

Rusko Rohtzhane - Human from Freicove with a bad temper, membership of the Varangian Guard and connections within the regular guardsmen.

Blandus - Human guard at the Theatre Rouge Dramatique. Strong and capable, Blandus can also be found at the local wrestling pits in the Area Vulgaris.

Gerard Gustafson - Human knight of the Order of the Scorched Oath, always up for a spot of righteousness.

Paul Jones Jr. - A childhood friend, who sits in the Four Roses Consortium as investor.

Charles of the House of the Three Crossed Beams - His father
Felize of the House of the Three Crossed Beams - His mother

The ladies of great import to Abdelaide Durée

Adele holds a varied series of contacts within most of the big families.
She's a regular host at the 'Grenouille sans pattes', a salon run by the Durée family. 
As such, coupled with the rise to prominence as the breakout of this season and her natural hang toward kindness, the ones she holds to be her friends reciprocate gladly.

Adoré Priati - A devout girl who is a little shy

Cynthia Du Trêve - the older of two sisters, always brash and loud
Tina Du Trêve - the younger of two sisters, always brash and loud

Marie Du Calle - sophistication with a spill of auburn hair.

Sidoni Tesodi - The blonde sister. Never without a juicy piece of gossip, be it true or... approximately so.
Vallé Tesodi - The brunette sister. Always close to the food.
Tebraska Tesodi - The raven-haired sister. Always seems to be calculating.

Veronique De La Quinne - Has an eye on a L'Equichant, so is now enamoured with horses.
Seraphine De La Quinne - Born to travel the world, forced to be good at accounting. 

Sibille Benotti - Knows three different was to make a croquembouche.

Cynis Avantarei - The oldest of the friends, pushing 28. Always making sure everyone is safe.

Heremine Durée - Small and white-haired, this little elf usually gets pulled into whatever crazy ideas Adele comes up with.

Vertange: NPCs

The names of those the party has interacted with or heard of.
Not all these are friends, nor are all allies.
List is not comprehensive and other names can be added if missed.

Area Vulgaris:

A summary of the Common Folk

*The folks over at the Rusted Cartwheel

*The Abbot at the Temple of the Order of the Scorched Oath

*Gerard Gustafson
Human knight of the Order of the Scorched Oath, always up for a spot of righteousness.

*Conto Abbeva di Porta Valletta
Human. Owner of the Abbeverato, known to work as a liaison between the rich and the deniable assets they require.

*Rusko Rohtzhane
Human from Freicove with a bad temper, membership of the Varangian Guard
and connections within the regular guardsmen.

*Aemilia
A young elven barmaid that works in the Jardin's Verdant Grove Wine Bar, but lives in the Area Vulgaris.

*Aetius
A halfling that can usually be found in the Area Vulgaris whenever a scrap is going down. Loved to interject himself into an argument, play both sides up for violence, brawl a bit and then sneak off with a purse or two.

*Appius
Dwarven tour guide, always up to assist for a fee, to help escort newcomers to friendly merchants and inns.

*Blandus
Human guard at the Theatre Rouge Dramatique. Strong and capable, Blandus can also be found at the local wrestling pits in the Area Vulgaris.

*Caecilia
Human fortune teller, wizened beyond recognition. Caecilia has a gift for seeing things that aren't there. Sometimes these things are true, at other times they are not. She sells her services to common and noble alike.

*Caeso
Human drunkard. Seems to make a living being the butt of every joke.

*Calpar
Dwarven wine merchant, came down from near Altharion to make his fortune, currently sitting in the middle of the pack, not earning the best coin, but able to spend a good amount without falling short of cash.

*Davos
A human captain who runs the 'Cyclopean Vulture', a beautiful two-masted schooner, up and down from Freicove. Main wares are furs.

*Drusus
A Goblin metalworker. Not a smith, but one of those that reinforces structures by adding metal to the buildings. Also constructs scaffolding.

*Eudoxius 
Goblin Sewer Cleaner. A common sight around town, has a snarky mouth and a mean streak reserved for those that give her and hers a rough time.

*Nicomedes
Retired human gambler, always seems to have the better odds. Lives above the Abeverrato of Conto Abbeva.

*Wallflower 
Halfling/Catfolk prostitute. Wallflower sees a lot of folk and hears many things. Someone tried to silence her to keep an affaire quiet, but Wallflower knows how to use a blade. 

*Malin
Dwarven ex-army chronicler, now full-time scholar. In younger days, she seems to have been quite the explorer and inquisitive mind, which has earned her free passage into the Grand Library.

Le Jardin du Fleurs Nobles:

A summary of les Fleurs Nobles

The House Benotti

*Beiro Benotti
Human, leader of the Imperial Duelists and court darling. Rose to prominence during his temps du Galetto as a competent and realistic leader. Has many friends in high places, but also a number of folks that would see him brought low for their own gain.

*Sandre Benotti
Half human, half elf, the Lady Sandre is a recognizable individual throughout Vertange, as she runs the Dulce Frustum, a successful chain of specialized candy stores, catering to the rich and extravagant.

The House Avantarei

*Thomasso Avantarei
This goblin tinkerer has married into the Avantarei family not just on the merit of making hand-over-fist money with his beautiful music boxes, but also because his genius is not limited to toycraft. It is said the youth has upgraded the defenses of many a noble estate over the past five years and making the vaults of the Avantarei the most guarded places in Vertange.

*Ilfana Avantarei
The Mistress of Books, this elven lady has long since held court in the Reposito Arcanum. She is said to know the exact location of each book within the space and rarely leaves the grounds, preferring the company of the bound ones over that of the living. 

The House L'Equichant

*Marcel L'Equichant
Human, the dour huntsmaster for the House, Marcel is known for his rigorous training regimen and his skill at arms. When he is not tending to the Emperor's Hounds or the stables, he can usually be found assisting the City Watch in their training.

*Tangui L'Equichant
Dwarf, keeper of the Kennel, the best breeder of his generation. Tangui has an eye for the best characteristics of all manner of animals, which has made him one of the wealthiest individuals in the City. After all, a good watchdog may alert a family of intruders, but the best will bring down the intruders without much trouble. 

*Richard Talbert L'Equichant
Human, former Captain of various military outfits, Richard's lost a lot of his joie de vivre when his daughter died, turning into a shell of the military genius he once was.

The House Duree

*Abdelaide Duree (ou Adele)
Human debutante from the hours Duree. She made quite a splash on the social scene and was very much en vogue until her engagement was announced to a foreign noble. All seem to hold her in high esteem.

*Salvadore Duree
Human, usually called upon to organize the Moon Revels, a set of soirees that link into the Moon's aspects. From full mystery at a Maschera at the start to the opulent banquet at the end, Salvadore has everything working like clockwork, which has led to the Galettos practically worshipping the ground he walks on.

*Hermant Duree
Human, a man of great resource, Hermant has made his fortune through shipping. Now, nearing his fiftieth year, he seeks to find a suitable heir for the naval fleet (12 ships and 2 more to be finished) he has built up.

*Heremine Duree
Elf, white-haired and a little ditsy, Heremine is a wonderful being that always brings a twinkle of delight to the eyes of her friends and a touch of wrinkles to her mother's otherwise ageless fae whenever the mood for mischief takes her.

The House De Bouchee

*Jean-Claude De Bouchee
Goblin overcompensator, also a Captain that patrols the central Mint near the Great Temple of the Lady of Scales.

*Marco De Bouchee
One of the most known moneylenders in town, Marco is known to cancel debts for those that can beat him in a game of chance, but he is also known to not lose that much...

The House De La Quinne

*Julia De La Quinne
Human. The left hand of the Matriarch of the De La Quinne family, Julia wields considerable influence and has both the connections and the funds to make the life of those that would oppose the goals of the family, yet she seems to have a soft spot for the impoverished commoners in the Area Vulgaris, making regular charity trips there.

*Augustus De La Quinne
Human. Augustus has been said to be the star prospect from the family, beloved by most of the ladies of the Balls this season. His mother has opened a small (and successful) boutique selling portraits and signed articles of clothing.

*Deonne De La Quinne
Human. Hatchet-nosed and stern. Anything that is not human or elf is beneath her. Rarely seen without her gaggle of bodyguards, Deonne has a tendency to rub others the wrong way with her demeanor, yet she has a soft spot for (human) children, which seem to melt her down into a doting aunt. She has remained childless. 

The House Du Treve

*Francois Du Treve
Human, said to be the future for house Du Treve when it comes to the courtly matters. Graduated summa cum laude at the Grand University. In spite of this, he is extremely biased in favour of humans and elves, considering most other races to be lesser in both body and mind.

*Theodore Du Treve
Elf. When things turn dire, the Du Treve send in Theodore. A procurement specialist, who for a small fee (and providing it does not go against the interests of the House) will gladly offer his services.

*Luna Du Treve
Halfling. Luna is a diligent lawyer, though when there are no cases, she will restlessly examine the bottoms of her glass in the Absconding Dawn.

The House Sombri

*Claudius Sombri
Elf. Caretaker of the Mausolé d'Or et Argent. Claudius has worked the Mausolé for over a century, rising from lowly guard to chief caretaker.

*Robrigo Sombri
Human. Master of the Arx Infractorum, one of the eight Tidal Fortresses that form the outer defenses of Vertange from the sea. 

The House Priati

*Eugene Priati
Elf. A man of the cloth, can usually be found leading the Temple of the Lady of the Scales at the Plaza Equines, where the stables for the city guard are also located. Eugene has a reputation for being addled, yet exceedingly kind. 

*Pierre Priati
Human. Commadore of the Guardians of the First Coin, a knightly order devoted to the Lady of Scales. Known for holding grudges and leading his squad of ten to safeguard the temples around the Jardin. 

The House Sumquaes

*Robert Sumquaes
Human, Robert's a frequent traveler to both the upscale salons of the Jardin and the dives in the Area Vulgaris. He is known to be happy to throw his inheritance around, both in coin and more physical endeavors, and his indiscretions have caused his father Iulius Sumquaes many a headache. 
Having reached the ripe age of 45, all hope Robert will find someone that may settle his whims.

*Iulius Sumquaes
Human, old, Iulius has been in the position of Primo Giudice at the Court of the Lady of Scales for over a decade and is showing no signs of flagging. He works hard and is seen as one of the more objective judges one can have.   

*Appollodorus Sumquaes
Dwarf. About as wide as he is tall, the master of the Grand University of Vertange has spent the last decades pouring over tomes to enlarge an already rich mind. He allows non-students entry (under supervision) if they offer him a suitable gift to enlarge his collection.

*Trebatius Sumquaes
Human. Trebatius is one of the names that strike terror in the hearts of those who commit crimes. He is the chief prosecutor of Vertange and has long since vowed not to rest until all crime is eradicated from the Area Vulgaris.

*Amelia Sumquaes
Elf. Amelia has been bursar for the Grand University for over fifty years now. Her youthful looks and kind demeanor have won over many a young student and kept them involved where otherwise they may have flagged or given up. She stands watch at the gate to learn who actually studies and who just rides the coattails of others.

The House Tesodi

*Lucius Tesodi
Elf. Lucius is almost a synonym for fashion within the higher circles of society. Where he leads, the others follow. Season in, season out, Lucius creates such masterpieces out of fabric that all stand in awe.

*Manius Tesodi
Goblin. Manius is your man if you need scaffolding projects. He brings in capable and skilled workers to tackle most of the building and renovation in the Jardin, and he does so at a surprisingly low cost.

*Selandrine Tesodi
Human. Raised into the ranks of the academics after stabilizing the embedding of minor spells into purses, Selandrine has not been the most accomplished afterwards. She now spends most of her time guarding the gate at the Grand Library of the University, hoping to catch a spark of information that will allow her to regain the spotlight.

The House Du Calle

*Durant Du Calle
Lord Marshall at the Imperial Court. A dwarf boasting impressive might and a beautifully worked beard, this once socialite sensation left his youthful ways behind him by joining a mercenary group after his temps du Galetto. From there, Durant made such a name for himself as a tactical mastermind and skilled fighter, he was permitted to join the City Guard and eventually even the late Emperor Argentice took note and promoted him to chief defender of the City, the post of Lord Marshall.

*Honora Du Calle
Dwarf. The Lady Honora has been in charge of the main prison of Vertange (Saxum Catenatum) for two years and seems to be getting used to the role as director. She needs more allies in order to push through reforms in the Catenatum, but according to her that is only a matter of time.  

*Brescia Du Calle
Human. Brescia is a known exposition fighter. She works the guard by day but has been seen in both duels and pit-fights. She is well liked, and can show up any day with numerous bruises, a black eye and a big smile.

Lesser Houses

*Louix du Pleur de Nicheries
Human, member of one of the lesser families that attaches itself to the Imperial Court. Close friend to Beiro Benotti and owner of a quality vineyard just outside of the city walls.
Was privy to an audience Beiro had with the Empress and had assassins trying to kill him before passing this information to the Court in order to clear Beiro's name. 
Was saved by a group of adventurers.

*Gaultier Sans-Culottes
Halfing, keeper of the records at the Court of Scales. Very well-read, though seen as a touch uncivilised by most that visit.

*Madame (Claire) Toussaud
Dwarf, fortune teller from the impoverished house of Toussaud. Barely clinging on to relevancy, she is allowed to dwell in the vicinity of the Grand Library to bring some solace and joy to the students. She is a well-liked figure among the student body for the insight and experience.

*Florian Lejeun
Human, captain of the University district and extremely avaricious man. Has a habit of taking credit for what his underlings do well. 

Foreigners

*Jim of the House of the Three Beams
Dwarven noble and merchant from Perlis. Used to make calls at the Palace of the Sultan.
Known for his generous demeanor and gentle nature, he courted lady Abdelaide Duree with great success.
They are now engaged to be married after a spot of political rivalry.

The Delve of Dun Scaith

*Captain Bartuz
Dwarf, middle-aged and stout. The leader of a dwarven encampment underneath the Grand Library of Vertange. His current mission is to hold back whatever comes up from Dun Scaith, as it is feared that the Elfhame has fallen, a suspicion that is brought further into focus as a Darktide seems to be approaching.

*Tim, the Necromancer
Deceased. Tim led a force of his own creation against the fortification of Captain Bartuz. He died after having fulfilled his purpose, with an embedded mimic taking his life after being captured by members of the Fifth Eclipse.

Vertange Location: The Rusted Cartwheel

The Rusted Cartwheel plays host to the merchants that arrive in Vertange and do not want to get mixed up in the political games of the Garden. It is not a place of great luxury, but it affords a certain level of anonimity to its guests. Rooms are box-like structures that allow the minimum of privacy and oft contain a bed - wardrobe - pot as only contents, with a lockable... plank as a door.

There is a communal bathing house not far from the Cartwheel (known as the Sink), which is best visited before dawn as the water is refreshed in the early hours.
For all its faults, the Cartwheel has a common room that can host 20 to 40 guests, depending on how squeezed in folks want to be, has a regular minstrel that calls there to provide entertainment in exchange for room and board, and the staff genuinely seem to enjoy their work (apart from Sove, who grumbles a lot). The staff wears a practical half-lower leg length toga, in a dusky grey.
The Cartwheel is open for business from two hours past sun up until late at night, with the crew working all shifts as and when needed. All crew live in the Cartwheel and have access to a small area where guests are not allowed, which includes a walled garden for relaxation.
Prices are mild, but the food is so good that many come by for a snack or a meal when their coin allows. (Sove does a mean barley risotto with creamy mushrooms and a delightful sciusceddu).

Innkeep:
Savere Pullus
Half dwarf, half catfolk, edging on 80.
Strong yellow eyes when the light hits right, beard hides his fur, the innkeep and owner of the Rusted Cartwheel has seen many things. Born after the fall of Byrric but aware enough of what rebuilding is like, Savere has a reputation for being kind and just to all that do not abuse his trust.
Bar staff:
Mera
Human woman, 40ish
Long brown hair in a bun. Usually waits the tables or holds the bar. Hates cooking, but loves to chat with new faces and learn what they're about. She has some connections around town and most merchants have a coin for rumours she may have heard.
Cassian 
Human male, somewhere twenties
Twinkle in eyes, gentle beard, well trimmed, usually bar or serving. Very open to all races. Hair is dirty blonde, done up with a red ribbon to make him stand out. He used to be close to a noble girl, but lost her affections when she became a Lady.
Ungu 
Mute birdfolk girl
Communicates in a series of clicks and whistles. Her comb, betraying a chicken-heritage, she wears as a mohawk, having adorned it with beads and rings. She's in charge of the cleaning and will also cook if Sove is not there. She's still gaining experience and as a teen, hasn't much of that to start with.
Sove 
Young dour goblin teen-turning-adolescent
In charge of the food and sometimes the cleaning. Sove was in training to become the sous-chef for a member of the Sombri, but due to a vendetta gone wrong, he now has to work his way up the ladder here, with the hopes of being noticed by nobles dying down more every day. Unlike the others, he doesn't embellish his looks, but he takes great pride in providing the best dishes in the area, making them stand out instead.

Bouncer:
Tobrokus

Tobrokus (or Toby as some regulars call him) is a sturdy dwarf, tough as nails. He is about a century old, but unsure of that. For a dwarf, that places him in adulthood, but before the decays of time wear away what was built before. He used to be an army sergeant and common life has never agreed with him. He has done a couple of tours in Perlis and is the main reason Jim of the House of Three Beams has come to stay in this area. Should Toby be out ill or injured, Severian Tesodi, an old army friend (60, human), will step in to help out. Being recognized as a Tesodi affords him the luxury of not being bothered by many that would cause trouble.