GM Dak - Curse of the Crimson Throne

Game Master karlprosek

Twilight dropped into the chair at the inn and nursed her head and sighed "Well, that was an unexpected ordeal. I wonder how the others are fairing". She motioned to one of the serving staff "Could I get a glass of mead please? Thanks.". She then turned her attention back to Devan and Nargun. "Did either of you get hurt out there? How are you doing Devan, you still look pale."

After confirming that nobody else got hurt Twilight undoes a memorized prayer and lets the raw power sooth her wounds. She closes her eyes and takes a moment to bask in the warmth of the divine magic.
Convert Bless to cure light: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

Feeling better, Twilight says "Its still looking bad out there. Dividing up the shares now is a good idea. We need to head to the palace as soon as possible, if we wait too long we might not be able to get in, and if we wait even longer the Queen may or may not still be in a position to offer us a reward for her property back"

"In that case we are glad. Let us meet at better times again!"
Atticus has no other business and moves purposefully toward the yellow juggler.

I feel fine, thanks for asking. Sorry you got hurt, but then I'm no trained bodyguard, just a silly dwarf with an unused deathwish and a tough skin. First round is on me, for the drinks.

Nargun pays for whatever drinks, asking a good sized pint of ale for himself

Devan glances at Twilight as she asks after his health. His first inclination is to pour on the bravado and say that nothing was wrong, but it seemed to be obvious if the woman was asking after him. He shrugs instead, "Poorly. But I guess I'll manage."

The musician reaches down to feel where the spider had bitten him. The wound was still red, but already was looking better after a good night's rest. Maybe it was a slower-acting side effect of the poison? The bard continues to split the coins, smiling briefly as the server comes in to take their order.

"Just water, please." After the servant leaves, he nods his agreement with the Calistrian. "Yes...dead queens give poor rewards. Deposed ones, as well. If those folks know what's good for them, they'll calm down and go back home before the Guard tires of their shenanigans and starts cracking heads."

Twilight sat back in her chair and watched Devan arrange the coins into piles for a while before reaching into her pack and pulling out a small pouch and a rolled up leather mat. "Would you join me for a game of Fox and Geese Nargun?"

She unrolls the mat revealing a grid drawn in the shape of a cross on one side and then arranges a set of black stones and one white stone on the grid. As she sets up the game board she casually asks "You made short work of those rioters out there, that was some pretty skillful axework being able to take them down without killing them. You mentioned fighting slavers with a priest of Cayden. How did you get involved in that?"

Mirela bows deeply to the drake as it heals her.
Thank you 'onerable drake. Your 'elp is most appreciated.

Once the drakes drag the imp away, Mirela watches them for a moment then joins her two companions heading back to the Yellow Juggler.

We meet a few times in bar fights, on one side or the other. Then we shared a few drinks, and some more. He was looking for some muscles, and I had what he wanted, and at the time I had no clues about Lamm's involvment with my beloved death. So, out of boredom, I joined his quest. He taught me about Cayden, and his neverending quest for liberty. We found and fought some slavers rings, and cracked some skulls. I killed a few slavers. They didn't deserved to live. Then the priest helped me back, and found proof of Lamm's foul play, he found the ring I forged myself for the woman I loved so much, my wife. Lamm's or his thugs killed my love. So I had to kill them all or die trying.

He finishes his drink and order another
Naah, they were just daft people trying to look strong, the ones I beat earlier tonight. I didn't want to kill them. They weren't wearing armor, or real weapons, and they had no training as a fighter. It was really small stuff. I do regret having smashed the woman's face, I hope she will survive.

Taking his new, full glass in hand
so, how do you play this game?

Twilight listens to Nargun's tale with interest. Then she explains the game to Nargun . During the game She sips on the same glass of mead she had ordered earlier as she waits for Nargun's next move. "So you knew how to fight before hunting slavers. What did you do before you lost your beloved? Were you in the army or a sellsword?"

Both groups make it back to the Juggler without further incident though there are troubling scenes or anarchy and lawlessness seen across the city.

At the Juggler the impeccable service continues when dinner and refreshing drinks are served. The money gathered by one group is shared in equal parts after the burial group is paid back for their downpayment.

Stories are exchanged about what happened today, and past history. But soon the story comes down to what to do about the Queen's brooch.

It is dinner time now, and you could go out in the night knowing that passions are inflamed around the city, or you could wait until morning.

Finishing up the allotments as the others make their way into the private dining area, Devan speaks to them without looking up from his task, having moved to a corner of the table so as to give Twilight and Nargun plenty of game space. "Have our ghostly benefactor's remains been given a proper send off, now?" The young man smirked, his eyes widening as the other group mentions the cost of the Pharasman service. Good humor quenched, the musician transfers coins around until everyone is made whole and then indicates for his companions to take their share.

Once everyone has settled in and eaten (a fine dinner that Devan only picks at) the bard pulls out the Queen's brooch and gives it an amused inspection, thinking it an odd coincidence that the other three had encountered that very thing. Could it be some kind of portent or sign? The young man had never had the gift of the Sight, dismissing such things as charlatan's tricks until just recently. Devan sighed...the future would just have to remain cloudy and murky, for now.

Holding the brooch up for all to see, the musician speaks, "The streets are still awash with looters, thugs, and anarchists wishing to capitalize on the City's overburdened Guard force or just spewing invectives against our fair Queen. And there's no guarantee that tomorrow will be any better. Let's go take this to the Queen and gather the promised reward before it's all spent on quelling these riots."

Atticus takes his time with his dinner and ponders about the events of the last days.
Taking out the deck he shuffled it, once, twice and thrice and then turned it over. Looking at the open card he nodded at Devan.
"Yes, we should do so!"
It is clear he was deep in thought, thinking about his next moves.

I wasn't trained much more than any dwarf in the arts of war. I was strong and tough because I beat iron all day, as a weaponsmith, and I had to test my blades. Then, after my beloved death... I became someone else.

He stops talking, quite abruptly

Excuse me, Princess, but I'm not ready to share everything about me. It's not against you, and I'm quite surprised myself i said so much already. This is...more than intimate. Only another dawrf could understand, I suppose.

He listens to the instructions and tries to play the game, lost in somber thoughts

Twilight listens to what Nargun is willing to tell and asks no further. She notes the "I suppose" at the end of his sentence. It sounds like there might be more he would like to talk about, but just not right now.

Twilight takes her share of the spoils and carefully counts out 32 coins which she puts into a small yellow silk purse with a black ribbon drawstring. She whispers a short prayer "Calistria, accept this tithe as is your due." and then tucks it away in her backpack until she had a moment to visit a shrine to submit her offering.

"Since imps tend to be a favourite familiar at the Acadamae, those small drakes are considered pests. More than one inattentive student has had their imp snatched from their shoulder while in the city. In fact rumor has it that the imps plaguing the city are a result of summoning mishaps and Acadamae student that listen a little to much to their imps and meet unexpected ends. Although I was never really interested in having a familiar in the first place, I found the imps particularly creepy. A few less in the city is a good thing."

Twilight listens to Devan. "Another late night I guess. Well, lets get to it then."
She gathers up her stuff and prepared to head back out into the city.

As she does so she watches Atticus shuffling the harrow deck and draw a card. "Do you know how to do readings Atticus?"

After dinner, the group chooses to set out again into the dark spring evening, to return Queen Ileosa's broken brooch. Typically the walk to Castle Korvosa would be a relatively short one, but tonight, with the cities furor stoked again, the rioters, looters, and general trouble-makers create a path of havoc throughout the city. Fortunately, the rabble-rousers avoid a strong looking group moving with determination, and you make it to the plaza in front of the Castle unmolested.

Castle Korvosa's imposing shadow looms over the rest of the city, located on a long-forgotten Thassilonian monument in the shape of flat-topped pyramid, the towering structure seems unobtainable, but then you notice the ramps and stairs that have been retrofitted onto all four sides of the black keep. Normally, visitors or those on castle business would enter that way, but with the city on high alert, the castle is locked tight and bristles with guardsmen armed with swords and crossbows.

There appears to be just one open point of entry, which is heavily fortified and barricaded. A trio of indolent looking castle sentries lean on spears, conversing among themselves, as you approach the single checkpoint. The rest of the usually crowded plaza appears deserted.

"Halt there!" shouts one of the soldiers. In the King...I mean Queen's name, state your business at this late hour."

Mirela watches the others talk over dinner but stays silent lost in her thoughts.
I 'ope my Aunts do be Ok. This will be a very late night indeed if we see the Queen then I 'ike back 'ome.

She considers for a time leaving the others to go check on her Mom, but the chance to see the queen is too tempting and overrides even her concerns for family.

As she thinks more about what is about to happen, she suddenly realizes she can't go like THIS! So she cautiously approaches Twilight.
Twilight, I know we just met, but can I ask you a favor? We are going to see the queen and well She motions to what she's wearing. I know it's alot to ask, but can you help me at all? My good dress is back at home....

So as not to hold up the rest of the group
After she has done what she can with her disaster of an outfit, Mirela leaves with her companions, full of fear and excitement at meeting the queen.

When the guards hail them, she's too nervous to say anything so she holds her tongue trying to let those better with words speak for the group.

Twilight smiles brightly as Mirela asks for her assistence. "Of course! Come with me and I will see what we can do."

She takes Mirela to her room and mixes and matches various pieces from Twilight's own wardrobe. At one point Twilight even takes a moment to ask one of the staff if they have a couple of pieces she can borrow. Though Twilight is slighter in build than Mirela she does what she can to pick articles that would give Mirela enough room to still move around.

Twilight didn't try to make Mirela look fancy and courtly, but went for a simple, respectable appearance. She avoided skirts and dresses and opted for an outfit that reflected Mirela's athletic, outdoorsy look. Something a little more refined than the patchwork leathers that she was wearing.

After the clothing Twilight takes the time to do a little work with Mirela's hair, trying to give it a windblown but groomed look.

Finally Twilight was done. "There we go. Nice and simple but refined. I hope you like it."

Twilight takes a final look to see that everything is in place and then asks "Would you be able to do a favour for me in return? Devan has been looking awfully pale all day and although he has been downplaying it, I don't think he is doing well. If he doesn't show any signs of improvement tomorrow, could you ask him about it? I never really learned anything about the healing arts beyond what my prayers provide and I was hoping that you might be more knowledgeable of remedies that might help him."

Devan shook his head as he looked at all the random mobs in the City, people that likely until a short time ago were law-abiding, contributing members of society. Some of the folks looked like your average ne'er-do-wells, but all too often he saw those that looked to be artisans or tradesmen, people who were driven from their homes by confusion and fear. The musician had never seen Korvosa in such turmoil in all his years in the city, and it all sprang from their current destination.

Devan held his hand up to his aching head, thankful that the group's (well, probably Nargun and Aleira's) appearance was enough to deter the bolder looters from seeking conflict. The young man looked ahead at Mirela in her new getup, surely inspired by their imminent meeting with Korvosa's newest monarch. She cleans up well. Devan adjusted his own clothing as best he could, cutting a presentable figure, or at least as good as it got for the time being.

As the group approached the Castle and it's stunted pyramid base, the musician glanced around with wonder and apprehension. What was typically a crowded plaza at most hours of the day was almost deserted, the way into the Castle funneled through a single choke point. It seemed the Queen was taking no chances.

Seeing that he was lagging behind, the bard quick-stepped to the front of the group as the guard calls for them to halt. The musician forced an easy-going grin on his face, ignoring the full ache in his head as he gestured for Nargun to pull out the brooch. "Just a group of concerned citizens hoping to return a piece of property to our grieving Queen in the hopes of brightening her evening."

Flashback with Twilight

Seeing herself in looking glass Mirela nods happily.
Oh Thank you! My Mom 'as a 'ard enough time accepting the fact that I went out in the city dressed no better then a loutish farmer, if I told her I saw the queen like that... Well I fear she might die of disappointment on the spot.
Of course even I wouldn't go that far. Some things are just not done.

When she hears the request about Devan she looks curiously Twilight.
Of course, I can 'elp him. I spent enough time looking in on the sick during my training that I know a thing or two about caring for someone. She gets a little smile as she continues. But I bet 'e would rather if you did it. That one strikes me as being like some of my Mom's favorite clients. Drawn to the 'eat and fire.

Nargun seems ill at ease and very nervous, when he looks at the King.. err, Queen's castle.
He searches a few seconds for the brooch, when Devan asks for it, fumbles with the precious babble, nearly dropping it.

There... take it.

The castle guard sergeant eyes you suspiciously. "An' just how did you lot end up with the Queen's jewels, eh?" asks he asks, but not before he sends another running up the stairs into the Castle proper. He examines the brooch and returns it to Nargun with a gruff snort. "Seems real enough at least."

The response here doesn't matter, but if you want to provide something, it's up to you.

As you explain a story, true or not, to the sergeant, he listens but it's apparent he is just waiting, and not particularly interested. After a few moments more the runner returns and whispers something into his ear. "You're sure?" the sergeant exclaims with some surprise. "Think that's a bad idea, but orders is orders.".

Barking an order, the sentries relax and the sergeant beckons you forward. "Despite what I think, yer t'come inside. Her Royal Highness will receive you it seems." His facial expression shows just what he thinks of that idea. Two more guardsmen approach where you stand, now inside the barrier. "No one can see the Queen carrying any weapons, so you'll have to leave them here with my men." says the sergeant, motioning to his staff. "Don't worry, you'll get 'em right back when She's done with you. Don't look like you got anything too special here anyways."

You are asked to lay your weapons on a table, if you choose to not to comply you will not be able to see the Queen. If you choose to try to hide a weapon, that's a Sleight of Hand check.

Devan tinned mischievously at the guard as the runner was sent, pulling out his lute. He picks at it a few times, judging whether or not it is in tune, before he nods in satisfaction. "It's a tale that should be accompanied by music, methinks."

The musician starts playing a simple, repetitive melody to go along with his singing.

"The priestess with her 'air of gold,
The dwarf with love long past.
Were brought into the seer's fold,
Her divination cast.

The crimelord's time is over now,
He was crushed just like a roach.
And that my friend explains just how,
We have Queen Ileosa's brooch."

The young man chuckled as he stowed his lute, thankful to see the runner returning from the Castle. His head was hurting and he wanted to lay down. As the sergeant explains that the Queen is to see them, the musician smiles and mock bows to the guard before going just inside to the next two in line.

At the guard's demand for their weapons, the bard shrugs, quickly placing all his weapons on the indicated spot. Devan doubted the weapons would do them much good in here should things go sour. But why would they? If anything they were going to have a grateful monarch on their hands. Supposedly.

Mirela lays her weapons aside and encourages the others as well.
Come on, put them all over here. Given the mood of the people in the city, and that we are strangers... this seems a perfectly reasonable restriction.

Though it dominated Korvosa's skyline, Twilight had never been to the castle before. She had heard many stories about what went on in the court behind the imposing stone walls from the sisters and brothers in her church however. There were carnal appetites to sate and secrets to be traded for those in the higher ranks of the Calistrian church. Twilight was excited to finally be one step closer to the courtly intrigues she had heard so much about.

When directed to she handed over the dagger and whip she carried without hesitation. All the while she took in the sights of the castle and prepared to meet the new queen in person.

Nargun gives his weapons, the big sharp axe and a dagger that seems even less Dangerous than a toy in comparison. He says to the guards, with sadness and pride mixed, as he relinquish his main weapon

I forged the axe myself, you know.

I will assume the Professor also complies

Once they have surrendered their weapons, the group is taken upstairs to the courtyard of the castle itself. Hewn from black marble, the walls and ceilings of the palace are made of stone but the craftsmanship is such that it appears to be set of seamless planes of smooth rock almost like obsidian. A group of 6 guardsmen armed with longswords and crossbows forms up around you. The guardsmen are understandably nervous, which does not reassure you in the slightest. A grand set of doors is thrown open and you are hurried through the interior of the castle. Unable to stop and look, you are still able to take in the pure opulence of the place. Thick carpets, fine tapestries and other works of art line the walls, and the black marble floors are polished to a high sheen. Soon, you are taken to a grand, curving staircase which sweeps from the first floor to the third. Atop the stairs, the guard presses you forward until you wait in a beautifully adorned foyer. There the guard stops waiting for something. An oil portrait of the now-dead King Eodred dominates this room, his aged and drawn face staring down at you with imposing menace.

Soon enough a stern-looking woman in dressed in magnificent full plate armor enters. Her helmet is removed, and her raven-haired beauty is obvious to all. She has dark, unsmiling eyes, and her pale skin is marred by a significant pink scar that runs along her high left cheekbone. Her hair is dark as ink, and unbound, falling past her shoulders. The woman nods curtly to you. "Greetings," the woman says in a curt voice. "I am Sabina Merrin, the Queen's handmaiden and bodyguard. They tell me you have something that belong to the Queen, is that correct?"

Still a little taken aback by the surroundings, Nargun fumbles with the brooch for a moment, afraid he's lost it, but then his fingers are able to bring it forth from his pouch. Sabina Merrin smiles and steps aside, sweeping her arm forward toward the open french doors in a gesture of welcome. "You will hand me the brooch at the appointed time." The smile and friendliness seem rather feigned however, and you get the sense of a cat playing with a mouse before skewering it with a claw. In fact, everything about Sabina Merrin seems feline, the way she moves, the way she looks, and even the way she speaks. Feline and deadly.

To the guards she says: "You may return to your posts. These heroes pose no threat to the Queen." and as they detail departs, she says to you: "Tell me, how would you like to be introduced to the Queen?" She looks at each of you intently, quietly taking your measure.

Just give her the name of Nargun Firehelm. I'm not an hero. I'm not sure the Queen needs another one.

Devan walked easily through the corridors, his stride relaxed, only an occasional wince betraying his physical discomfort. His dark eyes took in the surroundings eagerly, filing all the scenery away. He of course had heard tell of the inside of the Castle, but nothing compared to first-hand information. The musician smirked as the ring of guards escorting the group fidgeted nervously with their weapons as they proceeded deeper into the heart of the Castle, understanding the plight of the City had them on edge.

As the party is stopped in the foyer, Devan took a moment to study the portrait of the late King. His elderly, stern, judging gaze seemed like everything a monarch should be. Or at least what those in the poor parts of Korvosa assumed, at any rate. As the door opened, admitting the dark-haired beauty, the bard is just disappointed it is not the Queen. He studied the woman's fluid movements and her demeanor and quickly decided that she was very dangerous. So no being clever, Devan.

The young man feels a moment of unease as the guards are dismissed, but he shrugged it off. In for a copper, in for a gold as the saying went. At the Queen's handmaiden's question, the musician withheld a chuckle as Nargun displayed uncharacteristic nervousness as he pulled forth the brooch, and relaxed a bit at the woman's smile, however faked.

At the call for introductions, Devan took a step forward then said, "My friend Nargun here is too humble, my lady. His is a heroic heart, and his skill with his axe leaves his enemies' confounded. Please introduce me as Devan Covarie, Musician. If it please you." The bard offered a rather obsequious grin, then stepped back to allow another forward if they wished.

I had posted twice but the site didn´t take it!
Atticus nods to the guard and introduces himself.
"Please intoduce me as Doctor alchemisticus Atticus Fulvios!"

Just waiting for the others to reply before moving forward. Will do so this evening in any event.

As they were led through the castle Twilight took in the sight, they were even more magnificent when seen in person. Though she was impressed with everything she was seeing, she maintained a cool facade, careful not to let her excitement show. In the court, appearances were paramount and she didn't want to appear as some easily impressed commoner.

This opinion was reinforced when Sabina entered the room. Sabina wore a well practiced appearance of politeness despite dealing with people below her station. Ah the games that are played in a place like this.

Twilight gave all the appropriate deference due to someone of Sabina's position, but maintained an air of calm confidence as if this was something that she was already familiar with. "Twilight, priestess of Calistria" she replied to Sabina's question.

As she spoke, Twilight reminisced that she was in fact of noble birth, even if it was a minor nobility. Her father would have been elated at an opportunity for an audience with the queen, an opportunity to advance his station. In fact... Twilight let slip a bit of a smile as her thoughts wandered momentarily to how her father would react knowing that she now had the queen's attention. Maybe there was some more personal satisfaction to be had out of this meeting. It was something that she would need to reflect upon later.

Mirela looks in shock at all the wealth scattered around the castle.
Just the stonework on the marble must ‘ave taken a whole village of stonemasons. And the tapestries, is that cloth of gold? How many could you feed for the cost of but one of the wall hangings they use to prevent drafts?

By the time she gets to the foyer she is far less excited then when she got here. What Kind of person lives like this ignoring the needs of the poor outside?

When Sabina introduces herself Mirela sadly thinks: Even the women who serve at the palace are beautiful! What chance does a normal woman have here?
But she does attempt to ignore the thought as she says:
I do be Sister Mirela Wintrish, Mistress Merrin

"Let it be so,' says the Queen's Handmaiden nodding slightly. She seems to look at Mirela for a long time before turning on her heel, and striding confidently into the neighboring room. The leonine grace she moves with, even in heavy armor, is quite apparent.

From there, in a loud, clear voice you hear her repeat your names and titles as given, and she sweeps an arm forward to usher you into the presence of the Crimson Throne, the seat of power for all Korvosa!

The throne room is a vast space, with a vaulted ceiling, stained-glass windows of past kings and queens looking down from the eastern wall, and crimson tapestries hanging along the others. An immense fireplace offers additional light and heat to the hall, and a long silk carpet provides a gently arcing path to the Throne's base. The room is pristine, but strangely empty.

The only other person in the room is the Queen herself. Ileosa Arbasti sits up on the fabled Crimson Throne, a vision of beauty despite the black mourning dress and veil she demurely wears in honor of her husband's death. A small silver coffer rests in her prim lap, her hands folded over it.

Sabina Merrin ushers you forward and at the proper place asks for the brooch. With a deep bow and a bit of a flourish, she delivers it to the Queen, taking a position at her left side. After examining the brooch for a moment, the Queen speaks:

"This brooch was stolen from me some time ago -- I had not expected to see it again, truth be told. And yet, here in my darkest days, you come before me with kindness. The return of this brooch is much more than an honorable deed. It is inspiration, it is hope."

"I love Korvosa, as my husband did before me. His death has shocked the city as it has me, but I will not see his legacy destroyed in death, and I shall not see my city torn apart. All Korvosa stands at the precipice of a disaster wrought by her citizens -- those riots cannot continue. You have already done my heart a great service in returning this precious heirloom to me on this dark day, and you shall be rewarded. yet perhaps you can serve your city more."

"The Korvosan Guard is stretched thin, and it could certainly use the aid of heroes such as you. If you so choose, I shall have Sabina see to it that you have an escort of guards when you leave here -- they can see to your safe journey to Citadel Volshyenek. I shall send word ahead of you to Field Marshal Cressida Kroft to let her know you are on the way. Now, I need to retire to my chambers -- my grief has drained me. Again, I thank you for the kindness you have shown me, and I hope your days of serving the crown are only just beginning."

With that, the queen hands the silver coffer to Sabina, which the bodyguard quickly delivers to you. The Queen excuses herself and with a whirl of the hem of her mourning dress, she is gone from sight.

The silver box, which itself is finely crafted, is lined inside with red velvet. Lying there are 18 gold ingots imprinted with the royal seal of Korvosa - each bar worth 100gp. Sabina escorts you from the fine throne room and back out of the castle to the guard station where your things are waiting for you safely.

"Do you wish to take the Queen up on her offer of service? I can arrange a detail to see you safely to the Citadel even at this late hour, or in the morning if you prefer it. Just tell me where to send them to meet you." A loud explosion from somewhere off towards Old Korvosa makes everyone but Sabina Merrin cringe while she awaits your reply. Her cat-like features never changing, though she does seem to be staring right at Mirela, as if speaking to her directly, which is a bit unnerving.

Good news! For meeting with the Queen and returning her lost brooch, you gain 1800 gp worth of gold ingots. In addition, you earn a story award worth 200xp per player. This moves your cumulative total to 2069/3300 or about 38% to level 3. Well done! The loot has been added to the cash page of the Loot Tracker for your spending pleasure.

Atticus kneels before the queen, and bows deeply as she departs.
Listening to Sabina´s words he looks at the others.
"I do not think we can decline the Queen´s offer. I for one, would accept!" And the city does need more order in this time of chaos! He looks at the others, unsure of their opinion.

Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 7

Nargun is stuck in awe at the magnificent throne and the regal presence, and he keeps his mouth shut, knowing he's not one of the most diplomatic kind of guy

No need to say something that could upset the Queen. I don't want to end in jail or beheaded.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21

Devan blinks in surprise as the Queen's handmaiden gives Mirela 'that' look, then smirks. Judging by the unsmiling eyes and deadly grace, the Erastilan might have an issue on her hands. Well, at least it wasn't the musician's problem! Not that that was the sort of activity the young man had on his mind at the moment...his head was killing him and he just wanted to rest his weary head after getting this over with.

As they are announced, Devan drops to a knee, bowing his head in respect to Korvosa's newest monarch. He rises and listens to the young Queen's short story, cocking his head as he assumed a neutral expression, trying to listen without bias. She didn't seem too bad...just tired and aggrieved. Following Atticus' lead, the musician bows as the Queen leaves the throne room.

Devan's dark eyes widen at the sight of the pure gold ingots, greed lighting up his face for a moment before remembering the Handmaiden was still there. He gives the box the ingots are laying in a sharp inspection, wondering how much the container itself is worth.

Appraise: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

As Sabina escorts the group out of the Castle, the bard walked with as much grace as he could muster, trying to portray an air of confidence to any guards they might encounter. As the party makes it to the gate and Sabina asks for their answer, the musician contemplated it for a moment. Being beholden to a patron was something he had hoped for as a musician, but as a problem-solver he wasn't so sure. Still, there seemed to be good money in it, and the potential to help the City he loved.

Devan looked the feline beauty in her eyes and replied, "I will gladly accept the Queen's offer. May Her reign be long and just." The musician nods his head in respect to the Handmaiden before waiting for the others to respond as they would.

The silver chest, lined with red velvet, is worth 50gp even when empty. Sabina Merrin nods her approval as Atticus and Devan agree to take up the Queen's suggestion of joining up with the Guard. She patiently waits for the others to reply, her eyes uncomfortably on Mirela...

The value of the silver box is added to the Loot Tracker, for the next time you fee like selling items.

Twilight quitely marvelled at the opulence of the throne room. It was one thing to hear about a place and quite another to actually be there. She felt excitement to be in the Queen's presence. Though it may be just for a moment, for that moment the Queen of Korvosa knew who she was. When introduced, she curtseys deeply and with respect "We are deeply honoured that even in these trying times you have chosen to grant us an audience your majesty."

She listened to the Queen's offer. Me? Enlisting in the guard? This is going to be interesting. A lowly guardsman certainly isn't going to be climbing the ranks of nobility any time soon, but since this, hmm, lets say 'appointment' is by the Queen herself, maybe it can be spun into something much more prestigious than it is. Oh if I can get into the royal court, the things I can put my father through...

"Thank you your majesty, as your subject it would be an honour to serve the crown."

As they are led away, Twilight mind is filled with plans on how to get from a guardsman's post to a noble station.
Sense motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

Twilight notes Sabina's interest with a hint of envy that it wasn't her to catch the handmaiden's eye, but also a touch of pride as she had helped Mirella get dressed up for the audience which may have helped her garner this interest.

Such a great opportunity to become more 'intimately' familiar with royal court, I wonder if Mirella has any interest in pursuing it? Maybe Sabina would be appreciative if I could help her sate her appetite? By Calistria's heaving bosom! I've been here mere moments and already there are so many opportunities to explore. I have truly been blessed!

At Sabina's question Twilight glances at Devan "Perhaps a good night's rest and then an early start tomorrow? We are joining at the Queen's behest and it would reflect poorly if our first shift were marred by fatigue and carelessness."

Haven't heard from Mirela within the 24hr time limit, so I will assume she doesn't object to joining the Guard either since that seems to be consensus.

Sabina smiles at least on the surface, as you agree to Ileosa's suggestion. "Very good! My Queen will be quite pleased. You are also wise to get your rest this evening if you can." she waves her hand to the city below, where fires spread and chaos runs amok. "There is much work to do on the morrow. I will send a detail to escort you to the Citadel in the morning. Where shall they meet you?"

After the particulars are shared, she bids you farewell. "Until we meet again." she says with courtesy and with a low bow, she turns and stalks back into the castle without a backward glance.

At this point it is late and the city is running amok, but there are no planned encounters on the way back to The Juggler or wherever your lodgings might be. You can post for the next morning as you see fit.

Devan catches Twilight's glance, his face unable to mask the weariness he felt as he nodded subtly in agreement. "Tomorrow it is, then. Have the guards fetch us from the Yellow Juggler, of it please you. Farewell, ummmm, Sabina." Not really knowing what title he should use for the dark-haired woman, he stumbled a bit. She probably didn't care, though, she had other priorities, it seemed.

As the party started heading back, the musician drifted to where Mirela walked, grin on his face as he said in a teasing tone, "Looks like someone has an admirer. She's a looker, so I admit I'm a bit jealous, but I guess I can live vicariously through your exploits.". Devan chuckled, dark eyes watching Mirela for her reaction and to see if she seemed surprised at the revelation.

When the group made it back to the Juggler, the young man rubbed his head for a moment, bidding the others a hasty "Evening" before quickly paying for his accommodations and retiring to his room to collapse heavily onto the soft bed.

I have no other actions until morning, unless I get a midnight visitor.

Atticus will also retire for the night!
Taking a book from the shelf about the Tarot for a nightly lecture.
Before going to bed he will cast the cards for the next day.

Twilight stifled a yawn as she bid everyone a goodnight and headed up to her room. She flipped through some of her Acadamae books before getting bored and tossing them aside and opening up a well worn copy of The Book of Joy.

As she read she sighed becoming keenly aware of how empty the room suddenly felt. While vengeance had been her constant companion up until recently, it was time to move beyond that. It had been too long since she had enjoyed another's company. Maybe tomorrow, circumstances permitting she would have to remedy that.

It really was too bad that Sabina had eyes for another, that could have been fun. For now she turned down the lamp and drifted off to sleep with thoughts about the humiliations she could inflict on her father should she become favoured in the royal court.

Fireday, 6 Pharast 4717

The dawn breaks over a city caught in the throes of anarchy. Last night, while you tried to sleep, a mob attacked the Bank of Abadar shouting "Down with the Queen and her taxes. Down with Abadar and his fees." The looters were beaten back by the crossbow wielding clerics and paladins of the god of order, and with divine magics that left the area smelling faintly of the acrid odor of arcing electricity. Six townspeople and one cleric lay dead after the melee. At breakfast you learn that the Acadamae has shut its gates until further notice, after a group of troublemakers tried to get inside and wreak havoc. They have not been seen since...

And the rest of the city was again awash in violence and chaos, that included fires, looting, vandalism, and other forms of civil unrest.

Today, the dawn offers a glimmer of hope that things can get back to normal, and it also seems like an auspicious day for your new beginning with the Korvosan Guard. Mustering at the Yellow Juggler, for breakfast before the detail arrives to escort you to Volshyenek, you eat mostly in silence, lost in your own thoughts.

As Devan awakens, he finds himself in a cold sweat, his stomach cramping, and his head swimming with dizziness. When he finally makes it down to breakfast, he is ghostly pale and drawn and looks visibly ill. An open sore has developed on one of his forearms with smelly fluid leaking from it occasionally. It's clear there is something seriously wrong with the young man.

Devan takes 3 more points of CON and DEX damage (for a total of 5 pts of each). Remember the cumulative effect of this damage to HP, AC, some attack rolls, Fort and Reflex saves, among other things. He does heal back the 1 STR dmg he had before, as does Atticus. Mirela still has 1 pt of DEX dmg. Everyone is now at full HP, I believe (besides Devan's CON dmg).

Before long, the stamp of boots in the foyer indicates that a detachment of guardsmen has arrived, 4 in all. Unsmiling, they read your names from a scrap of parchment, and beckon you all to come along.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

Mirela is struck silent by the magnificence of the throne room and in spite of herself feels awe at being before her monarch.

She is as beautiful as they say, but she seems to ‘onestly feel pain at the passing of her husband. Maybe she is a good person in spite of all this.

After being dismissed she follows along with the others lost in her thoughts of what living in all this money and beauty does to a person.

When she gets to the gate and Sabrina prompts them for an answer Mirela rouses herself form her thoughts and turns to answer only to see Sabrina starring unblinking at her.
Oh Ladies of Light, what did I do?!?! Did I offend the queen or break some rule? I better not say anything until I know...
So Mirela just nod affirmative when the others agree to go to the guards.

As she walks back she racks her brain to see what she could have done wrong. Until Devan speaks from next to her making her jump.
What admirer? Who was... Oh. OH. The confusion on her face is suddenly replaced with a flash of understanding and then she starts to chuckle.
Turning to Devan with a relieved smile she says:
Oh thank Shelyn, is that why... I thought I had offended the queen!... She starts to laugh outright as she continues. I’ve seen that look directed often enough at others, to not recognize it... Oh Gods, my aunts will never let me live this down! I really have been gone from ‘one for too long! Thank you, Thank You!. She babbles.

When she recovers from the laughing fit she continues having smelled his bad breath:
Oh that reminds me, I understand you have not been feeling well. Can I help at all? I have some skill with aiding the sick

If he lets her Mirela try’s to use healing on Devan before heading back to the Sailors Delight to see her Mom and make sure everyone there is OK.
Heal to help Devan: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12

I will allow Mirela's ministrations in the morning, since the die is already cast.

Seeing the very ill-looking Devan stumble down for breakfast, Mirela examines the musician, noting the elevated temperature, the foul breath, and the smelly oozing wound.

Mirela's successful Heal check will provide a +4 bonus on the next Fort roll for poor Devan.

Continuing the next morning
Mirela would get up early to make it back to the Yellow Juggler, but would stop along the way at whatever Bowyer her aunts know about and attempts to trade her Longbow and the +3 strength longbow for a beautifully made +2 Strength composite Longbow.

Can I assume I can trade my Longbow (100 gp) Plus the +3 composite longbow (400) + 350 GP for a +2 Strength Masterwork Composite Longbow (300 for bow + 300 for Masterwork)

In addition, over night Mirela will pray to switch out sanctuary for Diagnose Disease in case her healing did not help Devan the night before

If Devan still looks bad in the morning she will try to take care of him first (Using detect disease + Heal skill) before eating her breakfast.
Heal + Detect Disease: 1d20 + 6 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 6 + 4 = 23

Then she quickly eats her breakfast and is ready to go as soon as the guards arrive.

The night before

Devan laughed along with Mirela as she realized what was going on, glad to provide some peace of mind to the stressed woman. As the Erastilan's nose wrinkled before her statement, the musician looked at her curiously, chuckling at her statement. "The hygiene's been kind of bad the past few...days, sorry about that. I usually do better. I was in a bad frame of mind and...well, anyway. Nah, I think I'll be alright. I think it's just weeks of living like hell catching up to me now that Lamm is done for."

The young man then grinned crookedly at Mirela as they walked. "Besides, you might need to go heal someone else's aching, if you get my drift." He was pretty sure she did. Although she hadn't outright said it, he was confident the woman's 'aunts' and 'mother' were whores.

Morning Time

Devan continued to lay in bed for some time after waking, staring at the ceiling in the dimly-lit room while waiting for his head to clear. When it became apparent that this was as good as it got, the musician tried to stand, the sudden intense whirling in his head causing him to stumble and have to catch himself on the bed. His body was coated in a thin sheen of sweat, his abdomen in pain. What a wonderful start to the day.

Devan slowly came down the stairs to the dining area, using the railing to help keep his balance. His hair had already gotten a damp look about it even though he had dried it with a towel in the room. Spying his companions, who all seemed to have made it down to the dining area before him, he sat heavily in a chair, not even bothering to try to eat anything. When he noticed the others looking at his arm, he looked also to see the weeping wound.

"Huh. Wonder when that happened? Mirela, I think I might have been too hasty in turning away your attention last night." Thinking about how that sounded in the hazy thoughts swirling about, he continued to speak to everyone. "Not THAT kind of attention, mind you. The kind with bandages and witchery and stuff."

Morning Time
After examining the Musician Mirela quietly says:

You do be 'aving the filth. It do be nasty, and in your run down state could kill you. I'll do what I can, but if this gets worse you may need to see a priestess to heal you.

The longbow is 75gp, so sell price is 37.5, that's 237.5 with the other composite bow. As such, you'll have to come out of pocket for the difference of 362.5, but if you're agreeable, it's a bargain.

I gave you the same in-game effect for this common disease based on your Heal check, as the spell would, so save your slot.

The bowyer, a man named Fletcher, is able to help Mirela identify a longbow with a more appropriate draw strength for her, and selects a very finely made specimen, which some incredible scrollwork along the wooden frame of the bow. He gladly accepts the bow found in the old fishery and also, more begrudgingly, accepts Mirela's own long-used longbow. When the priestess draws out a gold ingot stamped with the seal of Korvosa, his eyes go wide in fear and respect. "Use it in good healthy, milady. An' if anyone asks ye, tell 'em you got that fine bow at Fletcher's, eh?" he says, knuckling his brow in a salute of respect.

Smiling about her new purchase, Mirela hustles on to the Juggler so as not to be late.

Yep perfectly agreeable. Sorry about that, I must have been thinking of the composite bow. One more minor change to my spells, I want to swap out Create Water for Light.

Of course Master Fletcher. Fine work do always be deserving recognition. As she turns to leave she says:
Oh Do you 'ave Silvered arrows? If so 'ow much do they be? I might be looking for some soon to drive away the damn imps.

25% chance, low is good: 1d100 ⇒ 9

Fletcher looks at Mirela and sucks his teeth for a moment. "Reckon I do have a few o' them silver tips 'round here somewhere, milady. Not much call for 'em, but I seem to remember makin' some once fer a knight o' Abadar, who never came back fer 'em. Let me cast about and see if'n I can scrounge 'em up."

A few moments later he returns with a quiver full of 20 silver-tipped arrows. "Sorry for the delay, milady, but I done found these in the back. Only a score of 'em but'll throw in the quiver, cause killin' damnable imps is a service, and I want yer "auntie" to think kindly o'me next time I pay a call at the Delight... Want them all?"

Arrows are 5 cp each, but adding to ammunition adds +2gp per piece, that means 2.05 per arrow x 20 = 41gp more. Do you want to keep Sanctuaryin the level 1 slot, since I won't make you use Diagnose Disease? I got the orison change to Light.