Tamarisk House
Myrna Cassalanter’s villa, Tamarisk House, is an imposing testament to old-money nobility and a reflection of her own intimidating presence. Located in Waterdeep's Sea Ward, the estate is grand and unapproachable, with towering Victorian columns and intricately wrought iron gates bearing the Cassalanter family crest. Unlike other noble estates, which are often adorned with vibrant, colorful gardens, Myrna’s grounds are meticulously kept in shades of dark green and deep purple, punctuated with white lilies—the only flowers, chosen for their dignified restraint. The overall effect is one of austere elegance and power.
Grand Foyer
Upon entering, guests are immediately confronted by a grand foyer dominated by a Victorian-esque, full-body portrait of Myrna herself. She is depicted in a richly adorned yet functional outfit, her striking beauty tempered by a cold, steely resolve. This portrait, set in a dark wood frame, looms over all who enter, casting a sense of inferiority on visitors. The entrance hall is vast, with polished marble floors and high ceilings, softly lit by amber sconces, each casting long, deliberate shadows across the space. The decor throughout the villa is meticulously curated in shades of deep mahogany, onyx, and crimson, eschewing warmth or comfort in favor of a solemn, dignified atmosphere.Parlor
The parlor—a room her ward, Grayson, knows well—is where Myrna conducts most of her business and social interactions. Lined with dark wood paneling and rich, upholstered furniture, the parlor's layout is carefully designed to establish her authority. Armchairs with tall backs, a plush velvet sofa, and a low mahogany table are arranged to place Myrna at the head of any gathering, enabling her to direct conversations with calculated control. Dimly lit by a pair of opulent chandeliers, the parlor exudes a subdued yet powerful ambiance, with shadows cast in just the right way to create an air of theatrical tension. Here, she would often instruct Grayson on the art of observation, showcasing her ability to dissect guests’ motives, leaving them in her debt by the end of their meetings.Private Study
Beyond the parlor, tucked away upstairs, is Myrna’s private study, a room few are ever allowed to enter. This study is a secluded, almost ominous space with walls and furnishings in black, mahogany, and crimson tones. Heavy velvet curtains cover a tall, stained-glass window, casting a faint, ruddy glow that creates an uninviting, foreboding atmosphere. Myrna’s high-backed, throne-like chair dominates the room, its plush crimson velvet extending a foot above her head, while a slightly smaller, plush chair for visitors sits across from her in deliberate contrast. To the left of the visitor’s seat is the study’s mantle, which holds a small collection of deeply personal items: a tiny framed portrait of her beloved niece, Lanessa, a detailed report from the Waterdeep Navy regarding the sinking of Lanessa’s ship, and a single lily in a vase—Lanessa’s favorite flower. These items, the only visible traces of sentiment in the entire villa, are kept within Myrna’s easy reach, reflecting a rare vulnerability amidst her otherwise guarded life. The study’s dark, somber atmosphere reinforces Myrna’s authority and the isolation that accompanies her position, making it both a personal sanctuary and a fortress of secrets.Other Areas
Elsewhere in the villa, functionality overrides warmth and sentimentality. The dining hall is grand but rarely used for family gatherings, as Myrna often dines alone or hosts only select company. The villa’s library is locked and guarded, filled with volumes on politics, espionage, and Waterdeep’s noble histories—a resource for Myrna’s intelligence gathering rather than casual reading. The upper floors contain private quarters, but strict boundaries are in place to ensure her privacy; her bedroom is guarded by complex locks and wards, accessible only to her and select staff. Every inch of Myrna’s villa is a reflection of her controlled, calculated approach to life. Each room, each piece of furniture, and each choice of decor reinforces her influence and power, creating a home that functions as a fortress for secrets and a symbol of her cold, unwavering authority.
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