Map:Von Helson Mansion

Interior and Layout

Taken from the Second Annual Ball forum and Easter 2k5 Forum , presented by the Von Helson Sisters.

The Grand Ballroom

Maybe it is the identical spiraling stairways with the blue velvet banisters and polished ivory rails. Maybe it is the platinum and diamond chandelier, bright and majestic over the center of the ballroom. Maybe it is the Von Helson sisters themselves, the pride and wealth of Durem who inherited the mansion from their father. Everything in sight is an elegant mix of money and style. From the tables near the door, you can smell the freshly cooked rubybacks punctuated with a fruit-- perhaps pineapple. The ballroom remains unchanged though generations of the Von Helson Family, and a true symbol of power in Gaia.

Salon

Cooking requires work, and work requires something that clearly is not the Von Helson sisters' style. After inheriting the mansion, the tile floor, easy cleaning, and polished counters of the mansion's kitchen were perfect, just not for cooking. A few hundred thousand gold gave way to a pair of elegant chairs, silver lined mirrors, and polished granite counters. The Von Helson Salon has a reputation of turning out some of the most amazing hairstyles worn by the most renown people of Gaia. But styles like these come not only with an appointment, but a price few can match.

The Southern Spire

Following the rear stairwell on the left of the ballroom led past a few guest rooms and up to a massive stairway which led itself to the spire at the south of the mansion. The sconces along the wall with their polished silver begin to lessen in number while nearing the top. The reason for the dim lights become clear when passing through the large oak door to the spire's top. An area of the stone spire's top has been hewn away to make way for a telescope for stargazing. A few desks contain old papers, and the musty smell indicates nobody has been up here for a while. Then again, observatories are so boring.

The Eastern Spire

The tanning area used to be a beautiful atrium and greenhouse overlooking the southern wall of Durem. The beautiful glass though and scenic cityscape was put too much better use though as a Tanning Salon. People often report seeing the twins atop the spire, looking down upon the city. There is also rumor that Edmund chose his shop location for very "specific" reasons...

Study

A once impressive library in the mansion was systematically reduced to a shrine of the Von Helson greatness. Ancient books of historical value and family records were burned and destroyed in order to make room for walls of magazine racks. All that can be found are superficial teenage magazines, beauty and fitness articles, and anything with the Von Helson twins' picture on it.

The Northern Spire

Originally tasked with the defense of Durem's West Wall and overlooking L'arc en Durem, the Northern Spire used to be a proud reminder of the city's past. Now, it's merely a reminder of the twins' wealth, as it has been turned into a closet for the piles of their clothes. The old cannons have been turned on end as laundry baskets, and clothes are strewn about, some even with the tags still on. It's as if the Von Helson sisters would only wear something once and then discard it to the spire for others to deal with.

Tea Room

Perhaps the only room that was not altered or touched in the mansion is the Tea Room, a quaint area located through the Main Ballroom's west doors. With the obvious purpose of entertaining guests (and flaunting wealth), the Tea Room sports exquisite taste with it's large tapestries and beautiful stained glass in the windows. Towards the front of the room is a slightly raised area with a few speakers and microphone. Given the low hum coming from the stage area, there's a good chance the mic is on as well. A few tables are spread out throughout the room, white linen tablecloths helping to brighten the atmosphere. On each table is beautiful ceramic cups, with cobalt fused around the base to create a beautiful, rich, blue color. It's peaceful and serene until someone picks up the microphone and begins to sing...

The Western Spire

There have always been rumors about the Western Spire of the Von Helson Mansion. There were even strong warnings that during the ball this corner of the mansion was off limits. But the crowds were elsewhere, the twins were busy, and the staff were occupied. The door wasn't locked anyway. Upon entering though, it becomes very clear why the spire was sealed from the general public. Portraits of the family are shredded and lie upon the floor, broken windows and glass show struggles and violence. Urns of ashes are upturned, appearing as if they were flung across the room in fits of rage. What exactly happened here?