Winter Solstice Gala

[Heretic]

The following elegantly stenciled fliers are seen posted throughout Baldur’s Gate Palace District and East District:

OOC:
- The Gala will be held on the Feb. 23rd at 9pm US EST (Feb. 24th at 2am UTC 0) - In the Best Dress Contest (male/female) points will be awarded based on the contestant’s description of their evening attire in additional to their CHA roll. Judges: Netanya and Lucy Heartfila

[Heretic]

The following flyer is posted about Baldur's Gate and surrounding environs:





. . . a second flyer is posted for mouth breathers who can't read Edwardian text.

* The Gala will be held on the January 9th at 5pm US EST (2200 GMT) *

[Heretic]

A friendly reminder that the Winter Solstice Gala is nearly a week away [Saturday January 9th, 2200 GMT (5pm US EST)]

Winter Solstice Masquerade and Fashion Gala: Itinerary

The Imitation Game

Invites participating in the Imitation Game are asked to select their favorite personality from the Baldur’s Gate and environs and attempt to impersonate that individual for the course of the evening. Impersonations can include emulating the individual's dress, personality and/or other creative means of impersonation. Impersonations must be tastefully performed and devoid of vulgarities. It is recommended seeking the permission of the individual you wish to impersonate in advance. If you wish to participate in this contest but indecisive on whom you wish to impersonate there is an available list of individuals who have graciously offered up themselves as candidates for ridicule impersonation to select from. The best impersonation will be selected by the guest and the winner will be announced at the conclusion of the Gala and presented a monetary award.

Fashion Contest

Individuals interested in participating in the Fashion Contest are asked to adorn themselves in their most fashionable winter themed attire. Contestants will collectively be invited on stage to shamelessly strut and preen in their attire before the gathered audience. Guest will select the best male and female attire and that esteemed couple will be crowned Mr. and Mrs. Fabulous of the Winter Solstice Gala and each presented with a monetary award.

Open Stage

While a musical troupe will be on hand to provide entertainment throughout the evening we also recognize there is an exceptionally large pool of artistic talent amongst our invited guest. As such the stage will still be open for guest to regale the audience with their own winter themed performance.

Lady Netanya
Councilor, Phoenix Company

[sinopip]

A half-orc in fullplate, with a cloak bearing a large symbol of an eye on the back of a gauntlet, walks up to the billboard next to the Elfsong Tavern. There, he rolls out a scroll from his backpack and pins it to the board. It's about the upcoming Winter Gala!
Odd sight for those who spotted the scene, trying to make a relation between a half-orc in armor and a Gala...
The half-orc nods to the poster pinned, then heads out to the Palace District.

[Heretic]

This just a friendly reminder the Winter Solstice Masquerade and Fashion Gala is today, 9th of Hammer at Dusk (2200 GMT) at the White Mask Theater. Invited Guest Only.

Lady Netanya
Councilor, Phoenix Company

Winter Solstice Masquerade and Fashion Gala: Itinerary

The Imitation Game: Judging at 2400 GMT

Invites participating in the Imitation Game are asked to select their favorite personality from the Baldur’s Gate and environs and attempt to impersonate that individual for the course of the evening. Impersonations can include emulating the individual's dress, personality and/or other creative means of impersonation. Impersonations must be tastefully performed and devoid of vulgarities. It is recommended seeking the permission of the individual you wish to impersonate in advance. If you wish to participate in this contest but indecisive on whom you wish to impersonate there is an available list of individuals who have graciously offered up themselves as candidates for ridicule impersonation to select from. The best impersonation will be selected by the guest and the winner will be announced at the conclusion of the Gala and presented a monetary award.

Fashion Contest: Judging at 0100 GMT

Individuals interested in participating in the Fashion Contest are asked to adorn themselves in their most fashionable winter themed attire. Contestants will collectively be invited on stage to shamelessly strut and preen in their attire before the gathered audience. Guest will select the best male and female attire and that esteemed couple will be crowned Mr. and Mrs. Fabulous of the Winter Solstice Gala and each presented with a monetary award.

Open Stage: Ongoing

While a musical troupe will be on hand to provide entertainment throughout the evening we also recognize there is an exceptionally large pool of artistic talent amongst our invited guest. As such the stage will still be open for guest to regale the audience with their own winter themed performance.

Grand Finale: 0130 GMT

You'll just have to wait and see.

[Kitunenotsume]

Following a few rather busy weeks involving acquisitions from up and down the coast an Eastern waif clad in gold and green leads a horse to the White Mask. Strapped to its harness are many padded boxes and paniers, which she unloads and takes within. The process appears practiced and efficient, and carries with it a bouquet of lingering aromas both sweet and savory.

It seems that the Gala would have no shortage of delectables today.

[Heretic]

Phoenix Company would like to extend its gratitude to those invitees who were able to attend the Winter Solstice Masquerade and Fashion Gala. It was a smashing success due to your illustrious presence. Special thanks to Celestia The King of Undermountain, Halaster Blackcoat, for conjuring a shower of snow flurries to create a wintery ambience. A certain hin is also grateful because he was able to construct his own personal fortress from the fallen snow. Also special thanks for our guest entertainers, Bryce Sawyer, Iris, Hymly Finch, Kaisi Autumnweaver , and the duo of Rose and Sirion who managed not to stab each other for once.

Congratulations again to our contest winners: Frin was crowned the victor of the Imitation Game for her portrayal of Batibat Kok-Lir Kasdeya. She agreed to not use the proceeds from her winnings to procure toxins and attempt poison the local water again. Jalib and Lilly Kai were crowned Mr. and Mrs. Fabulous. Lilly Kai requested the proceeds of her winning distributed to charity and Jalib requested the proceeds from his winnings donated towards erecting a grand effigy of himself because of course he did.

Extended special thanks to Lucia, Rose Rivineth, Sirion Te'Dwa, and Kaisi Autumnweaver, for assisting in the planning and execution of the Gala; Sayushi Furuki for her fabulous catering services and House Blackrose for their security services.

Thanks to DM Bloodvine, Foresight, Spartacus for your assistance and support!

[Heretic]

*The following leaflets are posted on various Bulletin Boards about Baldur's Gate and along the Tradeway

[OOC Date: Saturday January 21nd, 2023, 1900 GMT (2pm US EST) - IN TWO DAYS!!]

Gala Itinerary

Arrival Festival

Guest are greeted with light refreshments, games, and a presentation of gifts for each Gala attendee from a Special Guest fond of distributing presents.

Crowning of Mr. and Mrs. Fabulous

Gala attendees will have the option of selecting (through popular vote*) their choice of a Mr. and Mrs. Fabulous. Candidates are selected from the pool of Gala attendees. Guests are asked to judge their choice of candidate not just by their fabulous wardrobe selection but also on the poise and grace exemplified by the candidate.

The Imitation Game

Upon entry each Gala attendee shall receive an alternative identity to role play during the course of the Gala; each role a flawed or tragic individual in their own right (e.g. Failed Architect, Greedy Philanthropist). These roles do not require costumes, though House Divine can provide accessories if guest wish to further improvise. Towards the close of the Gala guest will vote* on their choice of Best Imitator.

Best of Show

While guests will find themselves regaled through the night by the Dueling Roses they are still nonetheless invited to take the stage and entertain the audience with their own Winter Themed ballad (rather song or poetry) or a stage act. Gala attendees will vote* on their choice of Best of Show from among each of the guest performers.

The Twist

You’ll just have to stay and find out.

* - House Divine members are exempt from voting or receiving votes. Gala attendees cannot vote for themselves.

[Heretic]

Countdown to Gala: 1 Day

House Divine and the White Mask Theater Presents:

The Winter Solstice Gala
Kiss of Winter: A Winter Love Story

A timeless love story told through merriment and revelry
Come help our heroine find her true love

When: 18 Hammer 1361- Midday
[OOC: 18 January 2025 1730 GMT/12:30PM US EST]
Where: Everwinter Estate, Baldur ‘ s Gate (Manorborn District)
Dress Code: Formal

[Heretic]

1361 Winter Solstice Gala: Everwinter Estate, Baldur's Gate

House Divine and the White Mask Theater hosted the Winter Solstice Gala on the 18th of Hammer 1361 to commemorate the arrival of Winter. The Gala featured the début performance of Kiss of Winter, the timeless play in which a succubus exacts her revenge on the poor romance choices of the heroine, once again leaving the Matron’s precious ballroom floors a bloody mess.

Kiss of Winter: Cast and Credits
Cast:
Madam Ashley Gloomraven as Sivara Snowveil
Mr. Zachary Tender as Zach the Champ
Madam Rose Wintertal as Delilah Moonspire/Vengeful Succubus
Madam Oona Siofra as Narrator
Produced by the White Mask Theater

In addition to dinner and a show patrons were treated to lively music and dancing. It’s rumored one renowned druid of advanced age overexerted himself nearly meeting his death which would have likely been preferable to dying a slow painful death as the result of a debilitating chronic condition.

Mr. Zachary Tender redeemed himself in the eyes of House Divine Barmaid Andarielle Coldsilver, who had lusted over him since rehearsals. After slighting her early advances to remain in character during the performance he reproached her afterwards and offered to dance with her to which she happily and gleefully obliged. Good thing since she was probably on the verge of silting his throat after initially feeling dejected and jilted.

However Anderielle’s lust was later eventually redirected to one Nathan Goldenmane before she was reminded that her display of affection towards the man could incur the wrath of a certain silver haired lunatic woman should she ever catch wind of it. Its rumored Anderielle served complimentary drinks to a certain patron in exchange for keeping news of her advances towards Nathan between the both of them.

The Gala was attended by a Gondsman accompanied by his Techsmith Automaton as it scrapped its metallic feet all over the Matron’s precious floors in its attempt to dance. Fortunately the floors were able to endure the abuse leaving only a few removable scratches and marks. However its’ rumored the House automata Electra was disappointed the Techsmith Automaton didn’t offer her its hand in dance.

It is said an elderly woman approached the Everwinter Estate during the Gala seeking her son to chastise him for neglecting his chores. After word reached the Matron she, as well as others, approached the son to berate him for is continual subservience to his mother. Seriously Alan, grow a pair and get your sh*t together.

House Divine and the White Mast Theater thanks all those who attended the Winter Solstice Gala, your attendance and most appreciated. No thanks to a certain attendee of the Winter faith who decided to “bless” the attendees with an blizzard towards the close of the Gala after the Matron had already taken her leave to drink under her desk.

Special Thanks to DM Ink for your assistance in helping keep the event interesting and entertaining

[Heretic]

House Divine Presents:
Winter Solstice Gala

Countdown to Gala: 3 Days
OOC: January 24th 1900 GMT (2pm US EST)

Hidden: show

The following parchments are affixed to Bulletin Boards along the Trade Way between Baldur's Gate and Beregost

House Divine Presents
Winter Solstice Gala
Featuring: The Imitation Game
Be the person you never imagined yourself to be

When:
Evening of 24 Hammer 1362 (24 January 2026, Time 1900 GMT)

Where:
Wintermoon Ballroom: Everwinter Estate
Baldur ‘s Gate

Attire:
Formal

Beneath the posted parchments for the Winter Solstice Gala is another with the list of official roles available for the Imitation Game

Available roles for the Imitation Game:
Selfish Philanthropist
Blind Archer
Aquaphobic Sea Captain
Lord Zerro's Horn Sharpener
Lethargic Athlete
Snobbish Gravedigger
Gullible Magistrate
Eliminster's Foot Massager
Tree Surgeon
Internationally Renowned Spy
Polite Plunderer
Bone Collector
Guardian Emmanuel's Hair Dyer
Introspective Assassin
Baroness Lucrecia Velasco-Rey's Psychiatrist
Fzoul Chembryl's Mace Polisher
Apologetic Pickpocket
Grand Duke Belt's Dog Walker (The canine's name is Eric)
Flirtatious Librarian
Incompetent Executioner
Lady Alustriel Silverhand's (Peace be upon her) Bath Warmer
Frosted Cream Addict
Jilted Lumberjack
Failed Poet
Corrupt Baker
Halaster Blackcloak's Hair Stylist
Sel's Cologne Dealer
Amn Council of Six Court Jester
Scapegoat for Hire

Guest planning to attend the Gala and partake in the Imitation Game are asked notify the House(*) in advance of the role they wish to assume. Once a role has been selected it will become unavailable for selection, so select early. Note some roles have already been claimed. Guest cannot assume a role if their name is already attached to it.

House Divine will award a Grand Prize for Best of Show at the conclusion of the Gala

* - OOC: Send me a PM or find Netanya In Game

[Heretic]

House Divine 1362 Winter Solstice Gala
Ice and Treachery

The 1362 Winter Solstice Gala commenced with divine revelry as patrons arrived prepared to pretend to be someone other than themselves because the Matron requested it under penalty of earning her disappointment. Bards Madam Rose Wintertal and Mr. Lotric Skald delivered rousing Winter Themed musical performances. Madam Rose regaled the Gala patrons with her attempt at stand-up comedy that otherwise would have earned her a righteous beheading from Fzoul Chembryl. Lady Breila Stillwater was witnessed dancing with her partner Emilia Denton who subsequently bolted from the affair apparently embarrassed she lacked agility and confidence to properly dance. Lady Breila was seen frantically pursuing after her to no avail.

Gala patrons did not disappoint as each masterfully played the role from Duke Belt’s Dog Walker complete with actual canine, that hopefully didn’t relieve itself in the one of the fine fountains the Matron paid good for, to a seedy Baker peddling spoiled goods. Once again for the umpteenth time the Matron’s sacred Wine Celler found itself under assault from pretend plunders and cutthroats, fortunately none of the Matron’s fine wine was pilfered and sold on the black market … right? ... Right?

Guests were treated to a Murder Mystery extravaganza where they were assigned the task of piecing together clues to determine who savagely murdered Firinelia the Sullen Librarian who’s fallen corpse besmirched the Matron’s finely polished floors she paid good coin for. The assailant was eventfully uncovered and found to be Doctor Lareal the Tree Surgeon who expressed absolutely no remorse for her heinous crime to the chagrin of Faewyn, the Introspective Assassin, who disapproved of the technique and execution.

A reputable poet scandalized the affair with her selection of poetry directed at the host of the Gala:

Hidden: show

Welcome all to Everwinter, in Baldur’s Gate!
Where fashion clings to House Divine’s Fate!
Here lives a grand elf with silvered grace,
Netanya standing tall now, with her noble face.
A fashionista known throughout all the land,
Her costumes and dresses wanted by every hand,
Only the finest materials, like Shou Lung silk will do,
She has no time for nettle cloth, hemp, nor peasant glue.
And oh! How she stares at those dressed like clowns,
At sleeves that hang too long, or low, dragging gowns
“Did no one tell you that mauve with chartreuse
Is hideous?” she’ll declare, her disdain profuse.
But still, she’ll often stop and speak to all kinds of folks,
At the Friendly Arm, she’ll talk to even old and poor blokes,
So though she may seem to have a haughty fashion sense
Many enjoy conversing with her and take no offence.
Yet to Netanya many oft prattle out something insane,
With childish words or ideas that stir at her brain,
With this stress she slips beneath a desk, out of view,
And sips her winter wine till sense comes through.
For fools are many, loud of tongue and grin,
They chill at her nerves, sending her mind in a spin.
She counts their words like cracks in thinning ice,
Each foolish jest exacting a quiet price.
Yet in that storm, one star she holds apart:
Duke Belt—her savior, the unicorn of her heart.
A steady man where others postured loud,
Unbent by games that dazzle lesser crowds.
Netanya hides her gaze and admires him from afar,
And has a wish she tucks like wine beneath her bar.
“Perhaps now that I am a Lady, noble, robed and preen,
I shall catch Belt’s eye where I once stood unseen.”
But tell me this, - as snow weighs roof and gate:
Has rising rank made heavier her fate?
Does nobler station sharpen every strain,
And make it harder still for Netanya to stay sane?
For now, it seems she is handling everything well,
for we are all here, entranced by this Gala’s Spell.
But there is hardship with noble duties, honor, and fame
Under her desk with her wine she’ll at times likely remain.

A horrified Matron could only squirm out of humiliation and embarrassment as the other nobles in attendance likely grinned with bemusement eager to tell their associates afterwards. Baroness Topaz, the Matron’s feline nemesis, would listen with delight and mew in approval. It should have been no surprise to the Maron that the poet's reputation was that of an utter and complete failure.

At the conclusion of the Gala the remaining patrons found themselves witnesses to a true assassination attempt against the Matron. Fortunately thanks to the quick reaction warrior Alaric and ranger Mandel (with a futile assist from Ella) the assignation attempt was foiled and the assassin slain – leaving an actual bloody stain on the Matron’s fine floors. Evidence recovered by the Matron from the assassin offered her possible insight into who sent the assassin. The Fist later arrived to secure the crime scene that was now the Matron’s Ballroom as they took the slain assassin into their custody.

The day following the Gala Baldur’s Gate found itself treated to wintery delight as a massive snow storm settled upon the city to the thrill of an Aurilian Priestess who though it appropriate to erect temporary shrine in front of the Matron’s Estate for some reason.

House Divine wishes to extend its thanks who those who partook in the Gala as well as those who helped forge it into a rousing success.

Cast and Credits

Organization:
Rose Wintertal: Performer
Lotic Skald: Performer
Mathilde Wintertal: Mistress of Ceremony
Firinelia Tyr'valsa: Murder Mystery Victim
Lareal: Special Assistant and Murder Mystery Assailant
Lady Netanya d’Abdelledion’dy’Quellium: Stage Management

Imitation Game Cast:
Selfish Philanthropist: Jinni
Blind Archer: Ilir
Lord Zerro's Horn Sharpener: Zerath
Flirtatious Librarian: Ree
Eliminster's Foot Massager: Ree's partner
Tree Surgeon: Lareal
Polite Plunderer: Ontelima
Introspective Assassin: Faewyn
Fzoul Chembryl's Mace Polisher: Rose Winteral
Apologetic Pickpocket: Vesper Vallakovich
Grand Duke's Belt's Dog Walker: Nalissa
Sullen Librarian: Firinelia
Incompetent Executioner: Valie
Failed Poet: Ella a.k.a Afendaria
Corrupt Baker: Silian
Sel's Cologne Dealer: Mathilde
Amn Council of Six Court Jester: Joclyne
Scapegoat for Hire: Rhea

Special Thanks to DM Mimic and DM Ink