Located on the East Bank, just below the Heir Apartments, Braggart Square is one of those rare locations that can be equal parts exciting and daunting, depending on the day it is visited, as well as the mood of both the people performing in the square and those observing. It can certainly be exciting because, beyond The Gazette, it is the one spot that locals can openly learn a thing or two about what is happening out beyond the walls of the city, specifically, among the Dynasties and on the plantations. However, it can also be absolutely daunting because, depending on the current state of affairs within and between the ruling families, things can turn rather ugly, fairly fast.
Originally designed as an outdoor plaza café that would cater to those visiting or living in the nearby apartments, it soon became an elite meeting spot for Dynasty members. At first, the café remained and continued to serve those who frequented the location; however, as word began to spread that the eatery was serving up something far more succulent than food - namely, juicy gossip gleaned from its top notch clientele - it slowed in its production of meals and, instead, began to simply charge for the honor of a seat within the square.
As time passed and interest from the community grew, the Dynasties began to utilize the square more and more, yet, they no longer came under the guise of meeting for a casual luncheon. No, instead, they boldly came to take the floor and make announcements. They came to share their news about the birth of a Dynasty baby, or the signing of a profitable trade agreement, or the launch of a new ware or service. Simply put, they came - and continue to come - to brag, and there are those who are more than willing to pay a handsome price for not only the entertainment value of such performances, but the added bonus of being among the first to know.
Hosted, emceed, and, to a degree, refereed by Devlin Faulkner the Third - just as his father and grandfather did before him - the imposing man who stands at an impressive 6-foot-10, weighing in at well over 320 muscular lbs., loves to put on a good show and, to his credit, does, as long as the Dynasty members give him good material to work with, which they often do.
"Performances" are usually arranged by the Dynasties themselves, through Devlin, and are often announced, via the post of a bulletin, a day or two in advance. Although, occasionally, posts go up many days in advance or, on the flip side of the same miza, are revealed just moments before a "show" is to take place. It really depends on the nature of the material being presented. If it's a new type of tobacco being offered, a dozen or so days of building anticipation with an advanced posting can help generate interest and sales. However, if it's a merger or union of some sort, which was unexpectedly finalized earlier in the day, a Dynasty may decide to bring their news to the square right away!
Each family is afforded a spot within the square that they may utilize as they see fit. They can opt to have a simple bulletin board or actually place a warm body in their spot to drum up excitement for a coming announcement. Either way, they better make it well worth the wait or the Mockers - undercover Dynasty members who are seated within the crowd, who come to scorn or belittle those who are performing - will eat them alive.
For the most part, Braggart Square is kept fight-free. Its main purpose is to give the Dynasties a venue to be a little bit boastful, to celebrate their successes, and to bask in the glow of each other's prosperity. The good of one, is for the good of many.
Right?
Staff NPCs
Name: Devlin Faulkner the Third
Race: Human
DoB: The 33rd of the Winter Season, 475 AV
PoB: Kenash, Cyphrus Region
Title: Master of the Square
Skills: Rhetoric 55; Storytelling 52; Intimidation 48; Juggling 42; Brawling 40; Weapon: Broadsword 32; Investigation 29; Observation 20; Acting 18
Gnosis: None
Additional Info: Big of stature and deep of voice, Devlin easily dominates whatever space he occupies, which works perfectly for Braggart Square. When on duty, he can be found strutting about the space, dressed in his finest attire, striking up charming conversations with anyone in view. However, once a Dynasty member takes to the square, he becomes a force to be reckoned with, often swinging his broadsword through the air to control the crowd or utilizing his baritone voice to give aid to whomever is performing, occasionally playing to the crowds jeers, but rarely allowing things to spiral completely out of control. When off duty, Devlin can be found mixing and mingling with the elite of Kenash, probing and prodding, coaxing and cajoling them into his next main event.
Showtimes and Fees
There is no set schedule for shows. Patrons must frequently check the boards or speak with any one of the hired hands on-site to discover when the next performance will occur. That said, the following fees usually apply for most standard shows. Special events may require additional fees, as well as reservations.
VIP Box Seat : 10 gold mizas, which includes a pre-show meal and refreshment, just as the café once served, many years ago
Front-Row Seat : 6 gold mizas, which includes a refreshment
Mid-Tier or Archway Seat : 4 gold mizas
Back-Row Seat or Standing : 2 gold miza
If a patron wishes to reserve a seat more than ten days in advance, an additional, non-refundable fee of 2 gold mizas is incurred. Shows may be rescheduled or cancelled at anytime, due to inclement weather, illness of a performer or withdrawal of an announcement. Base fees may be held over if a performance is rescheduled, but will be refunded if it is cancelled.
The establishment cannot be held responsible for performances that end abruptly, for whatever reason, and are never liable for insults or injuries received as a result of their own involvement in a performance. The establishment has the right to eject a patron or reject a reservations at anytime, for whatever reason.
* Moderator's Note: This can be a self-moderated location or moderated location if needed.
