The Blancmange & Thistle is an extravagant hotel cast in gold and chrome. Chandeliers, ironwork, thick colourful mismatched carpets, paintings of every style taste and era, guests in nooks buried in deep chairs seemingly built for them, mandrills everywhere, the smell of brass polish and artificial cherry in the air.

The characters arrive looking for suitably glamorous accommodation for their first few days in the city of Troika. The concierge informs the party that they are hosting their annual Feast of the Chiliarch on the roof and as a result there is unfortunately only one room on the 6th floor left and that they “simply must attend the party” and that it will be “a positive delight to have you”. In a fit of politeness you all agree to share the remaining room.