BLACK ROSE GATHERING

“I’ve heard of these rumors of this ‘Black Rose Gathering’ for a while now. Honestly, I would love to investigate this event as some have claimed to see criminal behavior done there. However, every one we’ve interviewed has denied such an event exist. The ones who do usually have a less-than-stellar reputation. Frankly, our hands are tied until something happens that points us in the right direction.”
——High Constable Fordben, discussing the rumors of the Black Rose Gathering

Overview

The Black Rose Gathering is a annual event, held within the halls of the hidden Black Rose Château, contains the darker side of the elite from Fidem, Makor, and some from Astoria. The Black Rose Gathering is a festival where decadence is common, and shady dealings are done freely where otherwise the dealers wouldn’t make elsewhere. The location of the Black Rose Gathering is shrouded in secrecy, with only rumors that claim its somewhere not far from Fidem. Invitations are given to those deemed worthy (and depraved) enough to attend. Discretion is mandatory for attending this gathering, with the option of wearing masks be available for those who want further secrecy.

History

The exact origins of the Black Rose Gathering are very murky as much as the festival itself. Filled with misinformation and outright lies to hide the truth of its origins. One common rumor is that the gathering was formed by a meeting of nobles, merchants, politicians, mercenaries, and adventurers who sought to indulge in vices far from the prying eyes of wider society. They formed the Black Rose Château to have a place to do so. This event would evolve into an highly desired festival among the underworld, drawing participants from different walks of life who desire to shed their inhibitions. The inclusion of mask wearing was something that a patron who loves disguised implemented, becoming an optional feature for some.
The activities became increasingly more strange as the patrons wanted entertainment the Other realms, leading to the inclusion of creatures such as satyrs, fauns, orcs, and lamyros to name a few. This is the most persistent rumor about the Black Rose Château, although few have any idea if there is any truth to it.

Execution

“The Black Rose? Fun place, fun times if you’re invited. Just because you’re rich doesn’t mean you’ll be automatically invited. Gotta be pushing pretty dark to get an invite. I know because I was invited after completing a heist for a client. Lots of things to do there. I saw some people you wouldn’t believe would be there. And guess what? You’ll get to see it all thanks to that black rose you got. From me? Nah. But I recognized the woman who passed that to you. I didn’t say anything about you beforehand. They just know who to pick. Gonna be held later tonight. Clear your schedule, my friend! You’ll be there for a while”
——A Human Spellcloak, answering a Dromaos Shadowcaster who was inquiring about the black rose invitation

Those are deemed worthy to attend are given a black rose secretly that signals the invitation, with a letter detailing why they are invited. The Black Rose is a alchemically treated plant that also is the hilt attached to a small pointed blade. This black rose is meant to be presented at the festival, showing the guards that the person has been invited. It shows represents that the attendee should be willing to go to any lengths to keep it secret, including killing anyone who seeks to unmask the Black Rose.
The festival is a week-ling event that is brimming with the moral decay of different societies. Rare and forbidden goods are traded in illicit deals, and gambling is common with fortunes either won or lost on a move. Performers, including otherworldly ones, push the boundaries of decency with risqué actions. Secret liaisons and negotiations often take place here that involve various power plays leading to corruption among different sectors of society.

Primary Related Location

LAVANTIA