medlii's Curse of the Crimson Throne

Game Master medlii

looking back at Ty, not to worry, I have a brave warrior here with me she says indicating Toby. and besides The Dawflower's light will keep me safe.

Even before hearing about Sister Luba's cookies, Toby quickly agrees to go to the temple with Trey. After being quarantined inside for the past few days, he is excited to be outside and being helpful.

Trey finds that Korvosa's streets are still practically empty even though it is late morning. Only a few merchants hawk their wares in the markets, and those who are buying quickly make their purchases and go back indoors. Although the summer weather is warm, many homes have their doors and windows locked and shuttered, as if these physical barricades will keep the blood veil out.

A covered horse-drawn cart marked with an hourglass passes along the opposite side of the cobbled street. Two people swathed in gray robes walk beside it. Trey immediately recognizes the signature garb and markings of Pharasma and her priests, carting Korvosa's dead to the Gray District for proper burial and funeral rights. Toby shrinks back at the odd sight and stench.

Finally, Trey sees the white marble Temple of Sarenrae atop the crest of a hill, sparkling in the sunshine. The golden dome gleams like a beacon, inviting the sick, injured, or otherwise unwell to enter. About fifty people are patiently lined up outside, some obviously ill with blood veil. Inside, Trey finds the Temple just as crowded as it was a few days ago. The main temple is filled with the sick, laying on beds and makeshift cots. Sisters and Brothers of Sarenrae tend to them, distributing medicine, feeding those too ill to feed themselves, leading them in prayer, and providing other comforts. Several nod, wave, or smile when Trey and Toby pass by, but they look too busy to stop and talk.

As she expected, Trey finds Sister Luba in the temple kitchen. An enormous pot of soup boils over the fire and the scent of freshly baking bread comes from the oven. The gray-haired woman is kneading dough when Trey arrives, but she welcomes Trey and Toby warmly. "It's so good to see you," Luba beams. "Would you like some cookies, or maybe some soup and bread? Please, eat whatever you'd like." Trey knows that Luba's cooking is as good as her alchemy - she often laughs that making potions is just like baking cookies.

I updated the map of Korvosa to include the Temple of Sarenrae.

If someone changes their mind and would like to join Trey and Toby, that is fine, we can retcon.

Bee instantly forgets about playing outside when she sees the makeup inside the box from Vendra. She curiously looks through all of the items inside, picking them up, examining the lipsticks, eye shadows, and lotions, then sorts them into groups that make sense only to her.

Bosch and Typhon's walk through Korvosa's streets is just as uneventful as Trey's. The blood veil plague seems to be keeping people indoors. Reaching the imposing twenty foot tall gates in front of the Academae, Bosch and Typhon find that they are closed and barred. This isn't unusual, as the Academae prefers to keep its students and their experiments inside and curious Korvosans outside. Two students, dressed in crisp white dress shirts, black pants, and long capes stand guard. One addresses you as you approach. He eyes you suspisciously and speaks with a tone of authority although he looks no older than sixteen. "Halt. What business do you have with the Academae? All visitors must be inspected for symptoms of blood veil. No infected are permitted inside the walls."

As with Trey at the temple, if anyone else (like Tessa or Yrsa) want to go to the Academae, please jump in.

" Hoi! We're here to see our friend Corwin Avelard. I am pretty sure there isn't any plague in us, but your welcome to check. As long as it doesn't get too invasive...."

"No, we wouldn't want to get infected poking at you while you coughed on us," the student wizard replies, obviously more concerned about his own health than Typhon's. With that, he raises his arms and makes several complicated gestures, then stares intently at Typhon for several seconds. Next, he repeats the procedure on Bosch. "No, neither of you are infected. Professor Avelard is most likely in the staff building or the library. The staff building is the first building as you enter on the right. The library is the next building further north."

The other student pushes the wooden gates open, allowing you to enter. The grounds of the Academae are like nothing you've ever seen. The first thing that catches your eye is an enormous diagram in the grass immediately as you enter. Black rocks outline a five pointed star inscribed within a circle. The entire Fishery could easily fit inside the pentagram.

A multitude of mismatched buildings surround the lawn in a u-shape. A squat building that looks more like a mausoleum than a school sits to the left. Beyond it, another building is a windowless jet black cube at least three stories tall. It would be unremarkable if it weren't for the jets of flame, plumes of smoke, and arcs of lightning crackling across its surface. More buildings march off into the distance, but they are difficult to make out. The air seems strangely hazy even though it is a clear day. To your right are two relatively normal buildings. The first is a large structure of red and black brick, simply marked "Staff" over the door. Immediately below the word, a yellowish eyeball nearly a foot in diameter swivels around constantly, as if it is keeping watch. Further north is the building you suspect to be the library. The first floor is built of gray bricks, the second of red, and the third of black stone, as if the building was added onto several times.

Students in their school uniforms hurry across the campus, likely on their way to their next classes. Most look like teenagers, but some look as young as six or seven years old. Small reddish brown winged creatures flutter overhead, occasionally stopping to land on the buildings, rest in the grass, or dive bomb a student. You recognize them as imps, a nuisance nearly as common as rats in Korvosa. Rumors say that the many imps living in Korvosa's gutters escape from the Academae whenever students fail their summoning rituals.

As Toby enjoys the cookies, Trey gets to business. I managed to get a hold of these, I believe it may be useful in ending this plague. Trey sets the leather sack on a bench. flipping it open she pulls out the various books and notes that the group discovered.

I have been doing my best to help the lower communities, but until we can stem the spread we are just chasing our tail.

Sister Luba, I need to speak with the elders. please, keep an eye on Toby. I'll be back in a bit. Trey tussles Toby's hair getting his attention, be good bor Sister Luba, I'll be back. then later we can go to the park.

Trey then goes to see if she can meet with Archbishop Ambrosin.

" Okay, Bossman. This is freakin me out....Lets hurry this up."
Ty says as he dodges an Imp Flyby, and starts to jog toward the building marked 'Staff'.
Ugh. That eye thingy is creepy. Some o' the guys we defeated lately would fit right in here...

"There are many unpleasant rumors about this place, but it is an institution of learning." Bosch said, remaining cool as he knocks on the door of the 'staff' building, "I don't intend to spend much more time than is necessary here, to be fair."

After a refreshing and badly needed night's rest, Tessa looks much chipper in the morning.

"Whew! What a crazy day, I felt like I had been awake for months!"

As the others are discussing their plans, Tessa wolfs down a breakfast of cold ham and porridge, sneaking morsels of meat to Majenko.

"I'm worried about the consequences of the Watch knowing of what's going on. I trust Cressida, but who knows how many spies the Queen has among their ranks? I'll keep my ear to the ground, find out if me and majenko can rustle up any info."

After breakfast, Tessa dresses in her old threadbare smock and uses Prestidigitation to tousle her hair and dirty her face to restore her image to that of the poor lamplighter she sued to be. Heading out in the streets, she scurries about looking for Watch officers.

Yrsa arrives at what passes for the address of the "headquarters" of her new unit just after the sun rises. Absent her imposing armor she is dressed sharply in a Korvosan suit, the same battle braid running down her back, and bare of weapons holds a black briefcase in one hand, and a cast iron pot with a sprocket in the other. She politely enters, and sits at the breakfast table as Tessa scarfs down her meal. The pot contains a devilishly strong dwarven coffee, the scalding hot temperature as invigorating a stimulant as the caffeine.

Indeed! she heartily agrees. I haven't been through anything quite like that before.. My auxiliary days saw petty violence and bloodshed, but this.. This is something I never expected. She continues, Undoubtedly there are elements that know the full detail of what has transpired. It is likely that the Queen will learn soon. I am duty bound to report back to the Arbiters. I'm nervous, but I trust them. Would you accompany me? I'm sure there are guards folk to eavesdrop upon along the way.

Tessa pauses for a moment in her "get scruffy" routine. "Gosh," she beams, "I'd love to! And what is that stuff you're drinking? It smells fantastic."

CAFFEINATED GNOME

Tess I do believe you are missing some levels

Temple of Sarenrae

As Toby enjoys the cookies, Trey gets to business. I managed to get a hold of these, I believe it may be useful in ending this plague. Trey sets the leather sack on a bench. flipping it open she pulls out the various books and notes that the group discovered.

I have been doing my best to help the lower communities, but until we can stem the spread we are just chasing our tail.

Sister Luba beams at Trey's news. "That's wonderful, Sister Trey! I'm sure they'll be thrilled. Toby and I will be in here making lunch. I think the Archbishop is sharing Sarenrae's blessings and praying with our guests." Sister Luba always referred to people staying at the Temple as guests, never as poor, or sick, or injured. Toby nods at Trey's words and starts washing the dishes piled in the sink.

Indeed, Trey finds Archbishop Ambrosin making his rounds with the hundreds of patients filling the Temple's main hall. The sun beams through the skylights high above, allowing the Dawnflower's warm light to diffuse over the patients. The smell of pine and fresh linens are a sharp contrast to the dark, reeking Hospice of the Blessed Maiden that you visited yesterday. But the sounds of coughing and moans of pain are no different. When he finishes praying with his current patient, the Archbishop notices Trey and looks happy to see her. "Welcome, Sister Trey. How may I help you today?" Despite the warmth in his voice, Trey can hear the exhaustion beneath it. When Trey explains why she has come, Ambrosin's expression brightens. "Sarenrae's light shines upon us. I will gather the others who may help us and we shall discuss what you have found in the meeting room." Archbishop Ambrosin strides off, his orange and red robes swishing as he finds the other sisters and brothers who might help you decipher the texts.

A few minutes later, the Archbishop and four others join Trey in the meeting room. A simple round table with many chairs sits in the center of the room, directly over a mosaic depicting a sun. Archbishop Ambrosin begins. "Sister Trey, I've brought our most gifted healers and those who are experts in disease. Please, share your findings with us."

The other four priests and priestesses look on excitedly. Trey recognizes all of them to some degree or another. There is Brother Bromathon, a younger priest who joined the temple despite his family's tradition of serving in the Guard and Sable company. Sister Halina sits directly to Trey's right. Trey ran into her several times working at Korvosa's mission, while she was treating the ill. Trey knows Sister Phoebe, and Brother Miles, but not much about either of them.

I'm working on the other posts for Bosch and Typhon, and Yrsa and Tessa, they will be up shortly!

The Academae
To Bosch and Typhon's releif, the interior of the staff building is relatively normal. A soft sound, like a small bell ringing, sounds when you open the door. The inside is warmly lit with glowing torches, and the wooden floor is smooth and polished. It is quiet and peaceful. An elegant sign welcomes you to the staff building and lists the many names of the Academae's professors, instructors, deans, and other faculty. Eventually, you find Professor Corwin Avelard, Room 207. Finding the spiral staircase to the second floor, you make your way to room 207. When you rap on the door, you hear Corwin's familiar voice call "Come in,"

The walls of the small room are plastered with maps, diagrams, and charts, both magical and mundane. A desk and book shelves take up nearly half of the room. Both are overflowing with more books, papers, and scrolls. A small adjoining room holds two beds - the second one is likely for Corwin's daughter, Wren, though you don't see her. Corwin sits at the desk with his back to the door, reading a book. "You'd better not be here to complain about your grades on yesterday's evocation test," he grumbles, before turning around and realizing who his visitors are. "Bosch! Typhon! How are you two doing? It is good to see you." The wizard stands up to greet you and bows awkwardly. His skin looks red and sunburned, and his left arm is in a sling.

The Streets of Korvosa
Tessa and Yrsa set out towards Longacre Hall, the headquarters of Korvosa's arbiters, but with a detour to loop around the Citadel. Tessa is in luck. She and Yrsa soon find themselves walking about a block behind Private Verik Vancaskerkin, who is escorting a Queen's Physician along with a Gray Maiden. From this distance, you cannot make out what they are saying, but soon they stop to wait while the Physician enters a nearby home. "Can you believe that?" Verik is saying, "Somebody broke into the Hospice of the Blessed Maiden? And found some real bad stuff?"

The Gray Maiden's stiff, cold voice is muffled but still audible from behind her red plumed helmet. "I don't believe it. Why would Queen Ileosa's official hospital be hiding things?"

As usual, Verik continues, oblivious to his companion's comment. "Someone called the Owl. I dunno. I mean who is this Owl guy? He must be a good guy, right? If he is finding traitors who want to kill us all?"

The Gray Maiden responds sternly "Breaking and entering is against the law, Vancaskerkin. I've heard you're an idiot, but do you actually believe some masked hero did that? He was probably just going in there to steal money from the Queen's Physicians, or stuff his pockets full of medicine to give to his family. And when he got caught, he ran away and made up some story about what he saw inside."

There are several shops along the street here, with alleys between some of them. Usually, the merchants would be outside, advertising their wares, but the doors are shut today. The strangely quiet and empty streets make hiding difficult, unless you were to duck into an alley or just continue walking past and eavesdropping as you did so.

" Corwin! " Ty cries upon seeing their old comrade. " What the heck happened to you? I thought you left the adventuring life behind to be a scholar and teacher"
He goes on momentarily forgetting why they had come.

"C'mon, Ty, you know how often these wizarding types tend to blow themselves up. Did you forget to carry the one somewhere?" Bosch said, gently punching the older man's uninjured shoulder. Though it had merely been months, it felt like ages since Ty, Tessa, Bandru, Corwin and himself had set out together into that uncertain night.

"I would have brought Roscoe but he always gets nervous around this much magic. I also don't think your fellows would much appreciate him wandering around."

Korvosa is such a big city.. There must be so many of them. They can't all be involved. Some of them must be genuinely trying to fight the blood veil.. Yrsa whispers as they walk behind.

Tessa winces inwardly at the clumsy Vancaskerkin.

A simple-minded fool like that is the last thing we need blabbing our findings to the queen's minions!

"I should like to think so," replies Tessa, just as quietly. "Come, let us pass and stay unnoticed."

Trey enters the briefing room and takes in all those present. trying to gauge their loyalties. for what she intends to say could be very dangerous to share.

sense motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

First, let us thank Sarenrae for her blessings and giving us the tools to help her believers.

she offers a short prayer asking Sarenrae to bless their gathering.

Now, As you know, there is an epidemic of Blood Veil running amok in the city. My investigation along with fellow respected members of the city watch, has revealed that this plague was introduced on purpose. a ship containing infected rats was sunk. and our investigation revealed that these infected rats were to be used to spread the disease. for what purpose I do not know.

she continues to watch the others reactions to her information.

We continued our investigation and found that something was amiss at the Hospice of the Blessed Maiden, being ministered by the Queen's physicians. now what I have to share is sensitive. [b]it appears that this plague may be instigated by officials at the highest levels of city government. for the patients being "cured" at this Hospice were in fact being subjugated by a necromancer and priests of Urgathoa. it is my belief that the someone high up in the royal court is coordinating this whole affair.

with this revelation Trey again looks for hints of being discovered among those present. sense motive again: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

I have managed to acquire notes and journals of those attempting to mutate the disease to make it more difficult to cure. apparently they were able to secure the services of a Vampire to assist them. we were able to obtain these note from the Vampire but unfortunately he escaped back to his home in Ustalav.

this is the best i can recall and I may be totally wrong or have missed some stuff. so feel free to dissect and substitute as needed to be accurate.

tray takes a seat a worried look on her face as she seems to looks as though she has violated some church protocol. she is definitely worried about receiving (or being denied) her ordination.

diplomacy if needed: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (20) + 15 = 35

The Academae
"Ha! You should have seen the Shoanti that attacked us! They came away with much worse!" Corwin attempts some banter in return. "A group of us - archaeologists and guards- were out excavating a dig site where a group of dwarves discovered ancient Thassilonian ruins. We were near where the foothills of the Mindspin Mountains meet the plateaus of the Cinderlands. I thought it would be a nice vacation for Wren and myself - getting away from the city and sharing my knowledge of Thassilonian history. That was the case for a few weeks. Until a group of Sklar-Quah - Shoanti of the Sun Clan - decided we were too close to their territory. We snatched up all the artifacts we could carry. I distracted them while everyone prepared their horses. The Shoanti were so impressed by my fire magic that they gave me a rock in return - right in the arm." Corwin grimaces, patting his sling gently at the memory. "But I got us time to get away with enough relics to study while my arm heals. Turns out I got back to Korvosa just in time for blood veil to strike..." the wizard grumbles at the situation.

"Enough about me, though. What have you been up to? Last I saw you, we were hunting that necromancer in the catacombs and only found his dwarven alchemist friend. Found any other lunatics attempting to take over the city?" Corwin jokes.

.

Streets of Korvosa
Vancaskerkin and the Gray Maiden continue bickering as you walk past, until Verik changes the subject. "That Physician better hurry up. Field Marshall Kroft said there is a briefing this afternoon at one o'clock, and I want to get back in time for lunch before that." The Gray Maiden sighs, but does not reply. You suspect she might be rolling her eyes behind her red-plumed helmet.

The rest of your journey is uneventful. At the imposing, gray stone Longacre building, Yrsa and Tessa find that business is proceeding as usual. Although the blood veil might be stopping most Korvosans from going about their everyday life, the justice system is still dutifully prosecuting Korvosa's criminals and upholding the laws of the city. You find Senior Arbiter Zenobia Zenderholm at her desk, working on some sort of paperwork. She looks up from writing when you enter her tidy office. "Good morning, Yrsa," she says politely, and smiles at Tessa as well. "Do you have something to report?" Tessa might recognize Arbiter Zenderholm from the trial of Hookshanks, the horrible gnome who tortured many of the children enslaved by Gaedren Lamm.

.

Temple of Sarenrae
"The Dawnflower be praised," all intone at the conclusion Trey's prayer at the start.

When she pauses after explaining the details on the sunken ship with infected rats, she sees looks of disgust and horror. "Who would do such a thing," Brother Bromathan asks in outrage. "Do you really think someone did this on purpose?" asks Sister Halina, with some confusion. She looks surprised that someone would think up such a horrible plot. Archbishop Ambrosin looks extremely concerned, but he waits in silence for Trey to continue with her report.

At her statement about the involvement of Korvosa's government, and the news about the Hospice, both Sister Phoebe and Halina gasp, but Archbishop Ambrosin breaks in firmly before anyone can comment. "As Sister Trey said, this is sensitive information. What we discuss here is private and will not be shared. Let us all make an oath. By Sarenrae's holy light, I solemnly swear that this information shall not be divulged to anyone outside of this room." Bromathan, Halina, Phoebe, and Miles repeat the oath as one. Trey notices that Phoebe's and Mile's eyes are wide in shock or fear. Halina looks confused, as if she is still trying to make sense of Trey's words. Bromathan's eyes shine with a fierce, angry light. All say the oath with sincerity and none seem suspiscious or unscrupulous.

At the conclusion, each jumps in with their comments. Bromathan is outraged at the news, but looks admiringly at Trey's great deeds. "A vampire! Urgathoa! We should have expected as much! And you purged them all with the Dawnflower's holy fire?"

"I can't beleive someone would do something like that on purpose! And that they could convince other people to help them put a plague on the whole city!" Sister Halina says, shaking her head sadly.

Brother Miles doesn't comment on the general plot, instead asking questions about the blood veil, its treatment, and how it could be stopped."We have to focus on the immediate danger. You said something about notes and journals? I think all of us working together could turn that into information for treating the disease."

"Do you truly suspect the government to be involved? Is it safe to be talking about this?" Sister Phoebe asks nervously. She looks afraid, and her eyes keep darting around the room as if she expects Queen Ileosa herself to step out from behind the curtains.

Once everyone has finished their comments and questions, the Archbishop says kindly "Sister Trey, firstly I would like to thank you for your bravery in bringing this information of treachery to us. You do a great service to the people of Korvosa by shedding light upon such dark deeds. While we would all like to hear of your courage in smiting the clerics of Urgathoa and saving those trapped within the Hospice, I think we can all agree that it is imperitive that we begin understanding and treating the blood veil immediately. It is important that we discuss the origins of this foul plot further, but many innocent Korvosans will die as we spend our hours talking about the implications of what you have discovered. I propose we take this day to put forth a plan for scouring the vampire's journals, and how we shall work together with others knowledgeable in healing and manufacturing treatments. With their assistance, we can find a way to stop further infection, and with Sarenrae's blessing, find a cure to blood veil. As soon as that is resolved, we shall continue to investigate the government's involvement and the blood veil's origin. Do you agree? What ideas do you have?"

Trey, you recalled everything well - though the vampire hinted he might remain around Korvosa because he had some interest in talking to someone at the Academae.

Trey, sits back down, I gave the information to Sister Luba, she has always helped me in the past with ointments and remedies for ailments. I had hoped she could start to make use of the information.

Trying to answer the questions as they come in, I managed to send all to Pharasma for judgement, except the Vampire. By the time we reached him, I was weakened from the previous conflicts. but can tell you that there were atrocities committed upon the people of this city, Things I wish I never saw, and hope to never see again.

the things she encountered beneath the Hospice have taken a toll on the young initiate. she gets up Please, there are people that need my help. I recommend we work with some of the other temples, a cure needs to be mass produced and i will help distribute it. But we should choose our allies with care.

" Wellll.... Do you still have the fortune teller's Harrow deck? Zellara's I mean? Or other magics if not those.... We are trying to locate the Seneschal. He seems to have gone missing and may be very important in the days to come..."
Ty squirms as he asks this, seeming to fell bad at drawing Corwin into things...

"Sorry, if we are being cryptic, I don't want to drag you or Wren back into our messes," Bosch said, "Things are messy these days and our little militia might be in over our heads as it is."

Good morning, Senior Arbiter. Yrsa greets Zenobia respectfully. Yes, my assignment has taken me to some very interesting places, she says, sharing a conspiratorial glance with Tessa as she remembers the aquatic venture to the wreck of the Direption, It's rather sensitive information.. Yrsa closes the door, and informs Zenobia of the events that have transpired since her first dispatch. The investigation of the blood veil, the infiltration of the hospice, and the implications against the Queen within. Field Marshal Kroft has been briefed on the group's discoveries as well. [/b] Yrsa adds this last piece of information after a moment's hesitation.

Zenobia, I request special service to accompany these irregular guardsmen. I know this is somewhat outside the law, but if the evidences are true, then the integrity of Longacre will suffer far more greatly.

Date: 5 Erastus (July), 3417 Absalom Reckoning
Temperature: 75° F
Weather conditions: overcast skies, moderate wind

Whoops, I keep forgetting to post the date. I'll work on making that more consistent day to day.

The Academae
You see the realization dawn in Corwin's eyes as you allude to the seriousness of your visit and he figures out why you are not sharing details with him. "Oh, er of course! Yes, I have the deck right here! You can keep it if you'd like." Corwin opens one of the drawers of his desk and shuffles through the contents. Finally, he pulls out the familiar, worn harrow deck. You can feel your hands itching to shuffle and turn over the cards and reveal your future. "If for some reason, you do not get the answers you are looking for, the Dean of Divination might be able to assist."

Corwin continues to search for some other items. "Is Tessa still with you? She can likely use these, to help protect you. If things are as bad as you aren't saying, you'll likely need them. I'll see what I can do to make some others for you."

After answering any final questions, Corwin adds "It was good to see you again. I hope we meet again, when you are out of this mess."

He gives you a scroll of fireball, caster level 5, scroll of illusory script, caster level 5, and scroll of tongues, caster level 5.

.

Longacre Hall
Tessa and Yrsa see Zenobia's eyes get wider and wider as the tale unfolds. She asks several questions during the course of the story to clarify various details, especially around the information implicating Queen Ileosa. "Yes... that explains why Cressida asked me to visit the Citadel before noon today. Yrsa, if anyone else were telling me these tales, I would never believe them. Yet I know you are speaking the truth. Accompanying these auxiliary guardsmen is an excellent idea. Yes, if anyone can get to the bottom of this disaster and uphold Korvosa's laws, it is the lot of you, working together. Keep your badge and papers, of course, and if you have any specific requests, let me know how I can help." Zenobia looks on patiently to see if Tessa and Yrsa have any additional questions.

.

Temple of Sarenrae
"Trey, if you'd like, we can share the burden of the atrocities you saw," Sister Halina says, shooting a look at the Archbishop. "After such horrible things, you must want to get them off of your shoulders. We don't have to do anything about them, just know that we are here for you, whenever you are ready to share your experiences." She looks sympathetically at Trey. Having worked with the destitute of Korvosa, she knows that listening to someone tell a story can occasionally be as helpful as a healing prayer granted by Sarenrae.

Turning back to the subject of studying the journals, the group comes up with a few people who might be able to assist. Along with Sister Luba, there is Ishani Dhatri, the priest of Abadar, and Brother Thanos, from the temple of Pharasma.

"I'll take over Sister Luba's duties in the kitchen, so that she may study the journals," Phoebe volunteers.

"I'll speak with Brother Thanos. I'll ask him to come and stay here to work on understanding the disease." says Brother Bromathan.

Brother Miles is already at work preparing the room for the various scholars of disease. He lights the sconces in the walls to make the room even brighter, gets out papers and quills for writing and note taking, and erases the dusty, little-used chalk board on the wall.

"Who would like to talk to Brother Ishani?" Archbishop Ambrosin asks. "He may request some sort of payment, as is usual for the church of Abadar, and we will oblige his wishes. Sister Trey, and Sister Halina, if neither of you would like to do this, I can."

Taking the deck from Corwin, Ty looks both hopeful and confused...
Hmm. That didn't quite come out right. I have no idea how to us this deck....Ah well. Maybe Zellara is still tied to it. She might be able to help...Or maybe Tessa can us it...
"Thanks Corwin." Ty says shaking the other man's hand, then gathering up the other items offered."I was going to ask if you could work the magics on this deck, but Bossman is right. We don't want to drag you and especially Wren back into this. It seems to be getting dangerous...Or more so anyway.."

Tessa has no additional questions for Zenobia, but makes sure to talk to Yrsa when she has the chance to do so unheard by others.

"Say, that grey maiden said something about a briefing. You or I might draw unwanted attention there, but we have an ace up our sleeve! Or cloak, as the case may be!"

Tessa shifts the shawl of her poor lamplighter's outfit aside to reveal the tiny scaled face of Majenko, who has been listening attentively to the goings on.

"Nobody's going to see a pseudodragon hanging around, or pay attention to one even if they do! Even if it's the nicest, smartest, prettiest pseudodragon around. Mr. Majenko, would you mind finding that briefing with the Field Marshal and listening in?"

"Oh - I could do the Harrow reading if you'd like," Corwin says. "After all, the answers are vague enough that I'm sure I won't learn anything too dangerous. But I think any of you could do it, really. Even if the deck's ability to tell fortunes is not exact, it will certainly guide you in the process." He is still dismissive of the idea of the predictive ability of the cards, just as he was when you first met Zellara those many months ago.

I'm pretty busy tonight but will post the results of the Harrow reading tomorrow if you decide to have Corwin do it. If you do, there are two parts. First is the Choosing - you ask a question and each person draws one card (and roll 1d9 to symbolize your card). Second is the Spread, which will give more detailed information to answer your question.

At the Temple

I will go Talk to Ishani, I sometimes have a way of convince people to help. I can be very persusaive when I want to be.

With all that has occured and the importance of everything trey Intiall failed to notice this little change but soon she does, they have been addressing her as Sister Merosa (or Sister Trey), not Intiate or Acolyte, by the elders, she starts to wonder if she has earned the titale but this pressing matter of the city's well being is more important.

Trey says nothing concerning this, now is not the time. the People of Korvosa come first.

"Worth a shot," Bosch said, scratching his chin and putting together a question in his mind.

Temple of Sarenrae

"Thank you," Archbishop Ambrosin says simply. The remaining priest and priestesses set to work at their various tasks.

As Trey goes to leave for the Grand Vault of Abadar, Ambrosin draws her aside to speak to her privately. Smiling kindly, he says. "You have a selflessness that we should all strive to achieve. I hope you can forgive me for this delay, and I simply wish we had the time to do this sooner. But the instant that we have turned the tide on the blood veil, you shall be ordained as a full priestess.

The Grand Vault
Trey begins the long walk across Korvosa to the Grand Vault. It is noon, and you notice a few more people out trading for groceries or other necessary supplies, but the streets are still quiet until you are very near to the Vault. A short line of perhaps a dozen people waits outside to gain entrance through the temple's great bronze doors. A guard decked in gilded armor featuring the eye of Abadar admit them one by one whenever someone leaves the temple. Noticing Trey's symbol of Sarenrae, he asks "Good day, Sister of the Sun. Do you have business with the clergy of Abadar?"

.

Tessa and Yrsa
Majenko chirps at Tessa's praise and coils his long, scaly tail around her arm. He cocks his head to listen to her request, then bobs it in an imitation of a nod. The pseudodragon flutters off towards Citadel Volshynek to eavesdrop on the meeting of the Guard.

"Gah! Now that we're here, I really don't know how to ask the question.. I'm pretty sure we won't get an answer to 'Where is the Seneschal', but that's all I can come up with..."
Ty frowns in concentration, aware he has walked into a field of knowledge in which he is unprepared.

Trey smiles, but it seems reserved, of course it does not take much for Ambrosin to see that inside she is rather ecstatic.

Arriving at the Grand Vault, trey approaches the guard, Good Day, I have news for Ishani from Father Ambrosin. it concerns the Blood Veil.

Trey is still dressed as an official of the temple of the Sun.

diplomacy if needed: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (16) + 15 = 31

Typhon's card: 1d9 ⇒ 9
Bosch's card: 1d9 ⇒ 6

Images of the cards are in the first two slides of the encounter map that is linked in my title above. I'm having trouble getting the link to share it for some reason.

"Where is the Seneschal?" Corwin repeats. "That sounds like a question of wit and knowledge. A Harrow deck has six suits - hammers, keys, shields, books, stars, and crowns, and each suit has nine cards. As it fits your question, I will use the suit of books for The Choosing. The card that you choose indicates your current place in the world in relation to the question at hand," he explains. Sorting through the deck, he selects the nine cards, shuffles them, and holds them fanned out, face-down to Bosch and Typhon.

Choosing a card at random, Bosch turns it over. The harrow card depicts a lizard-like creature sitting serenely on the back of a slave and reads The Rakshasa. Corwin purses his lips. "The Rakshasa symbolizes dominance and mind control. The lizard is imposing itself upon another being. In this case, the enslavement is likely mental and not physical. That is, various undesirable concepts will be forced upon you, Bosch. The next part of the Harrow will tell us more about the specifics and the outcome."

Typhon does the same and draws The Snakebite. A cloaked assassin clutches a dagger dripping with poison. Corwin explains the card. "The Snakebite is a vile, poisoned weapon. The poison on the assassin's blade represents the death of ideas and freedom, the ability to turn friends against each other, and the ability to poison the minds of the virtuous. To say it more clearly, Typhon, someone, or something powerful is stalking the Seneschal."

Corwin pauses for a moment and rubs his chin. He collects your two cards and returns all of the cards he removed to the deck. Meanwhile, he describes the next step of the Harrowing as he shuffles. "Now, we go through The Spread. I will lay out nine card in three rows of three, face down. Then I shall turn them over, one column at a time. The left-most column represents the past, the center column - the present, and the right column the future. The top row shows positive omens, the center unclear omens, and the bottom negative."

Laying the nine cards out on his wooden desk where you can see them, Corwin then turns over the first column, revealing The Liar, The Marriage, and The Carnival. Again pursing his lips, Corwin looks over the cards from top to bottom. "In the past, a new relationship began, but it was disguised as something much less beautiful. Indeed, this was a union of people and ideas,and they shall never be parted. This ambition was conceived under illusions and false hopes. In your situation, you thought you were merely investigating the strange plague ravaging the city. Yet you found much more, and have come across bigger ideas and plans that you cannot part from."

Next, Corwin reveals the three center cards describing the present- The Cyclone, The Peacock, and The Cricket. "Currently, an intelligent being is plotting an unnatural disaster. I see a praying mantis, lurking in the shadows, waiting to poison and devour unsuspecting prey. Presently, it is not stalking the Seneschal, but someone else. The Seneschal is its end goal, as well as yours."

Finally, Corwin turns over the final three cards that divine the future - The Paladin, The Courtesan, and The Big Sky. "The good and holy paladin stands strong in the face of the political intrigue brought forth by the Courtesan. How she is treated will dictate the results - powerful changes may occur in the light of day, or the slaves' shackles may be replaced by worse ones."

Corwin pauses for a few minutes to think through these thoughts. "Bosch, the Rakshasa will attempt to force its own ideas upon you through social niceties, and you may not even realize what it is doing. I can see that the Rakshasa is not a cold and calculating lizard, like the one on the card. It is something with red or orange fur, a fox or a tiger, silently padding through the shadows. While it is a beautiful creature, you must remember it has viscous claws, deadly teeth, and is very cunning. How you handle the situation with the rakshasa may very well determine if the Seneschal is found at all. Typhon, the Snakebite is poised to strike at someone you know, yet they do not suspect the danger. You may already be too late to save this person, but you will also find the Snakebite hunting the Seneschal and will likely cross paths."

Corwin gathers the cards and returns them to the deck. Now the wizard looks dazed and puzzled. "This is a very powerful item. I did not know many of the things that I said until I said them. The Harrow Deck simply told me. Or perhaps Zellara is telling me," he muses.

I need to get to bed, so I will post a response to Trey tomorrow.

Sorry about the delay, my internet was out last night.

The Grand Vault
"Of course, right this way." The guard at the temple of Abadar opens the bronze door and leads Trey inside. It is much less crowded than the temple of Sarenrae. Perhaps only a dozen people are being treated for blood veil throughout the temple. Trey recalls that the clerics of Abadar charge fees for their services, which may explain why so few people are receiving treatment.

The guard escorts Trey to where Ishani and another priest of Abadar are talking. The young priest of Abadar smiles when he notices Trey. "It is good to see you again." Turning to the other priest, he introduces her "This is Trey Merosa, of the temple of Sarenrae. Trey, this is Archbanker Darb Tuttle. Trey is an excellent healer. She successfully treated Brienne Soldado, the first known case of blood veil."

The half-elven Archbanker bows slightly. His close-trimmed brown hair is just starting to turn gray, and his almond-shaped blue eyes look sharp and keen. He wear the gold-trimmed white robes common among the clergy of Abadar. A large golden key hangs around his neck on a chain, also a symbol of Abadar. "Well met. We need people of your skill and faith at a time like this. Ishani and I were just discussing a something strange occurring within the Grand Vault. Several of our bankers have not left since we learned of the blood veil spreading through Korvosa. They remained secluded in the vault in the basement, only meeting with others known to not have the disease. Yet several of them have contracted blood veil. Have you noticed anything of that sort occurring with those in service of the Dawnflower?"

" Oh crap. Now I still don't know where we can find this Seneschal guy, And WE need to find him fast. Something is hunting him, and maybe us?.... Ugh. I'm thinking magic may not be the best way to find him..."
Ty looks thoroughly confused and unsure of where to go next.
" Bossman, did that make more sense to you...?"

The Academae
"It certainly didn't answer your question, but the harrowing indicated that the Seneschal is alive," Corwin points out.

Corwin's office door creaks open, and another familiar face appears - Wren, Corwin's daughter, now dressed in the red and black robes of an Academae student. She notices Bosch and Typhon and waves. "Hi Mr. Glasthane and Mr. B'Ru. Sorry to interrupt. Father, Queen Ileosa is making an announcement at Eodred's Square in an hour. Pretty please can we go?"

"Absolutely not," Corwin barks. "Last time Queen Ileosa gave a speech, a riot broke out. Besides, we would certainly catch blood veil if we go out in the crowds. "

"Well can I go to the Hall of Seeing? I bet someone will scry on it and show us what's happening," she begs.

"Fine," Corwin agrees. With that, Wren runs off again.

Going to advance some things, but feel free to ask Corwin any other questions you have.

.

Tessa and Yrsa
While you wait for Majenko to return, you hear a town crier ringing a bell as he walks down the street, shouting his message. "Hear ye, hear ye, Queen Ileosa will be giving news on the state of Korvosa at three o'clock sharp at Eodred's Square!"

Majenko returns to Tessa after about an hour and a half to make his report. The pseudodragon chirps out his message in draconic. "The boss of Yrsa was there and she went in to talk to the other guard lady. Then, all the guards and red and gray humans and the bird humans came there. And they put ropes on all the bird humans and took off their beaks. They talked a lot to the bird people. Where are you from? Are you a real doctor? Did you know Doctor Dabble-us? Did you know Doctor Ralph? The bosses didn't like what they said. The boss of Yrsa said that they were not telling truth! But the bosses took them into the big house anyway and the bird people were really mad!" Majenko cocks his head, waiting for any questions.

.

Trey, we can assume you heard about the Queen's announcement as well and can attend if you'd like to after you are finished at the Grand Vault

Eodred's Square
The large, open-air market at Eodred's Square is surprisingly crowded with people, though there aren't nearly as many as there were at Trinia's botched execution. You notice several recognizable figures atop a makeshift wooden platform along the northern wall of shops. Queen Ileosa stands in the center with her bodyguard, Sabina at her side. Sabina is restless, circling about and constantly scanning the crowd. Field Marshall Kroft is wearing her ceremonial red armor and talking with Senior Arbiter Zenderholm, who is wearing the yellow robes of her office and carrying a large, gold-plated cross-bow. Yrsa recognizes its purpose immediately- it is used for official executions. Commandant Thalassinus of the Sable Company, the next-in-line for the position of Seneschal stands at the western end of the platform, glaring silently at Queen Ileosa.

When the city bells conclude ringing in the three o'clock hour, Queen Ileosa begins her announcements. Her somber, clear, voice resonates through the courtyard. "Good afternoon, citizens of Korvosa. I would like to first ask for a moment of silence as we all pray for our friends and family suffering from the horrible disease that has descended upon our beautiful city." She pauses for a few minutes with her hands folded in prayer. "It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that Old Korvosa is under quarantine. Blood veil has struck that area particularly hard, and a quarantine will stop the spread of the disease. My personal force of Gray Maidens will be guarding the bridges to ensure that you all remain safe from anyone attempting to cross into the rest of the city." Old Korvosa is the island on the northern area of the city map, where the 7 and 8 are.

"Yet I bring good news as well as bad. Just this very morning, Field Marshall Kroft brought me strange news. A lone vigilante who calls himself the Owl broke into the Hospice of the Blessed Maiden. He found evidence that Doctor Davalus and his Physicians were corrupt and actually started the blood veil plague! He delivered this news to a group of guards who brought the evidence and doctor's notes to the Field Marshall. At first, I could not believe Field Marshall Kroft's report. I was duped by the beguiling doctor. He took advantage of the fact that he had been the physician for my family as a child and abused my trust." Queen Ileosa is distraught, wringing her hands and pacing about the stage.

Sabina and Cressida lead two figures onto the stage. Their hands are manacled, and they wear blindfolds and gags. First is Rolth, writhing and attempting to break free from his bonds until Sabina puts her swordpoint to his back. Doctor Davaulus stands calmly, turning as if he were looking at the crowd gathered in the square. "Our brave guards were able to capture the masterminds behind this evil plot!" the Queen shouts triumphantly. " I, Queen Ileosa Arabasti, sentence Doctor Reiner Davaulus and his assistant Rolth to death for treason against the city of Korvosa!"

The crowd is silent for a moment, then erupts into cheers.

I will post the rest of the scene tomorrow.

Eodred's Square, continued
Arbiter Zenderholm prepares the golden crossbow at point-blank range. The bow twangs as it releases its arrow into Rolth's chest. A second arrow is loaded. With a second twang, Doctor Davalus is also dead.

Now that the grisly execution is finished, Queen Ileosa concludes her speech. "On behalf of all of our leaders gathered here today and the people of Korvosa, I would like to thank the Korvosan Guard for promptly dealing with Doctor Davaulus. Our brave heroes also found records of Doctor Davaulus's work. The faithful of Sarenrae, Abadar, and Pharasma are quickly using them to improve treatments for those of you who remain ill."

The crowd cheers and applauds at the conclusion of the proceedings. While at the start, the people looked afraid and silent, now they talk excitedly and with hope. They have seen Doctor Davalus as a symbol of the invisible blood veil, silently infecting anyone by chance. And now Doctor Davalus is dead...

At the conclusion of the event, Private Grau Soladado stops to talk. "Good to see you all, and that none of you have taken sick. Thank you again for helping Brienne. She is nearly back to her usual self. By the way, Field Marshall Kroft has some paperwork for you at Citadel Volshynek."

After Queen Ileosa's public announcement thanking the Korvosan Guard, you now gain a +2 bonus on all Bluff and Diplomacy checks made against Korvosan citizens if presenting yourselves as members of the Guard.

Sorry about the delay, my internet was out last night.

The Grand Vault
"Of course, right this way." The guard at the temple of Abadar opens the bronze door and leads Trey inside. It is much less crowded than the temple of Sarenrae. Perhaps only a dozen people are being treated for blood veil throughout the temple. Trey recalls that the clerics of Abadar charge fees for their services, which may explain why so few people are receiving treatment.

The guard escorts Trey to where Ishani and another priest of Abadar are talking. The young priest of Abadar smiles when he notices Trey. "It is good to see you again." Turning to the other priest, he introduces her "This is Trey Merosa, of the temple of Sarenrae. Trey, this is Archbanker Darb Tuttle. Trey is an excellent healer. She successfully treated Brienne Soldado, the first known case of blood veil."

The half-elven Archbanker bows slightly. His close-trimmed brown hair is just starting to turn gray, and his almond-shaped blue eyes look sharp and keen. He wear the gold-trimmed white robes common among the clergy of Abadar. A large golden key hangs around his neck on a chain, also a symbol of Abadar. "Well met. We need people of your skill and faith at a time like this. Ishani and I were just discussing a something strange occurring within the Grand Vault. Several of our bankers have not left since we learned of the blood veil spreading through Korvosa. They remained secluded in the vault in the basement, only meeting with others known to not have the disease. Yet several of them have contracted blood veil. Have you noticed anything of that sort occurring with those in service of the Dawnflower?"

Trey seems a bit concerned at this developing news. I am afraid i have been out amongthe pople aiding the sick where I can, I have not heard of such things at my temple. can you tell me, are you sure that those that have taken ill werer in fact trully isolated, and are they still around that I may examine them?

possibly expecting a voice of concern, Not to worry I have developed a mild resistance to the Blood Veil due to my work in treating the sick.

at the square

sense motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Trey seems a bit lost in thought at the queen's announcementl, and the rapid justice being carried out. Trey definately looks like she has her reservations about the sincerity of the Queen, but she does not voice them, not yet

Although we aren't really in chronological order, jump in as needed. You are all welcome to attend any of the events

The Academae
"Yes, that harrowing did not exactly answer your question of the Seneschal's location. Hmm... perhaps if you had an item of his, my colleagues in the House of Seeing might be able to use their abilities to scry or otherwise detect his location. " Corwin offers.

Citadel Volshynek
When you visit Citadel Volshynek later, it is much busier than your visit in the middle of the night. Officers bark orders to their squads in the courtyard. A few guards are sparring near the training dummies. You are ushered inside to Cressida's office where two guards are assisting the field marshall remove the ceremonial armor she wore to the execution.

After dismissing the two, Cressida shuts the door and addresses you. "I'm pleased with all that happened today. Everything went off without a hitch. I have several things for you. First, Queen Ileosa was upset that our heroic guardsmen did not wish to be publicly recognized, but she have me a reward nonetheless. " Cressida produces a heavy bag filled with 5000 gold pieces.

"Secondly, I present you with these official badges in case anyone questions your position as official auxiliary guardsmen." She presents each of you with a silver badges engraved with Korvosa's seal- a hippogriff and trout on either side of a shield. After passing out the five emblems, Cressida explains that they are also enchanted to protect you and assist you in your duties.
Badge of the Korvosan Guard - this magical emblem can be used to cast one of the following spells once per day at caster level 4, using DC 16 for any saves required: protection from evil, sanctuary, calm emotions, or honeyed tongue.

"And finally, you requested access to the Seneschal's office and home. Your badges should answer anyone's questions about your presence. I spoke with the Gray Maidens and told them I am sending a team in a few days. They are aware that someone is coming, but I did not provide any names or descriptions. " Cressida also provides you with Neolandus's address at an apartment near the Castle.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Grand Vault
"Oh yes, some of our vaultkeepers, guards, and acolytes deal only with matters of banking, and we kept them and their business downstairs, away from the sick. The sick are treated here on the first floor. We would be honored if you would examine them, though they've recovered thanks to Abadar's blessings."

Ishani leads you and Archbanker Tuttle downstairs to the banking area. Bronze friezes depicting various deeds of Abadar decorate the polished marble walls. Scenes of busy markets, taxmen collecting their due, legal proceedings, and balanced scales illustrate the god's ideals. In another panel, a man with an eagle's head defends a city from an attacking raid with a gavel the size of a warhammer. Alcoves line the edges of the room, presumably so the bankers can speak with their clients in privacy, though no one is here for business at this time. The entire place is neat and tidy. Receipts and checks are stacked in orderly piles awaiting filing. Tomes of accounts and transactions line an entire wall of the room. One banker sits with a ledger, adding columns of numbers. His face is tired and pale, but he does not show the hacking cough or red face symptomatic of blood veil. Another woman is sorting coins, gold, silver, and copper into piles. She too does not show any signs of the disease.

"This is Takis, and this is Elma. Takis and Elma, this is Trey, daughter of Sarenrae. In addition, she is a skilled healer. May she examine you?"

Both quietly submit to Trey's investigation. As Ishani described, both show signs of having had blood veil. It is obvious that they have not fully recovered their strength, but are no longer symptomatic. "All I did was count coins, and I somehow got sick," Elma complains. "How does that make any sense?"

But seeing the stacks of silver pieces jogs one of Trey's memories. Just a few days ago, she recalls finding little coffers full of dead rats and silver coins on the Direption beside a drowned Queen's Physician.

Trey's wisdom check: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20
Trey's heal check: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (10) + 17 = 27

After the Queen's short speech, when they have returned to the Fishery, and all are together....
" Couldn't tell or not, but I still do not trust the queen. I mean come on. She's Royalty, that's the LEAST trustworthy of Noble-folk..."
Ty paces as he talks, burning off anger and tension..
" With these badges, we should definitely check out the Seneschal's place. Even if we don't find him, we can get somethin' of his and take it to Corwin. Maybe that way we can find him..."
Glancing at the bag of gold coins..
" Might wanna wash those afore we use 'em. Already seen the plague boxes o' dead rats filled with silver. No reason it couldn't be done with gold..."

Arg, so much catching up... I'm sorry guys.

The Academae
"It's a mess of dire portents, is what it is," Bosch said, sighing. He did not have much faith in fortune-teller trappings but he was a believer in Zellara's gifts and good will. "Prophecy is a fickle thing. Nothing we can directly act on but we can certainly take them under advisement. Thank you, Corwin, we'll see about getting something solid for your colleagues to use. Stop by the fishery some time, bring Wren along, we can sit on the dock and grumble about the city like a pair of old codgers while the girls play."

After the Speech
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14
"She knows her game, I'll give her that," Bosch said as he waited out Ty's anti-establishment tirade. "I'll soak them in antiseptics before use."

He was frowning over a cup of mulled cider. The Queen made sure her name and authority was attached to the execution of the plague doctors. It was good publicity despite all the evidence pointing to her being complicit in their crimes. "When we visit the Seneschal's home, make sure to pocket something small and personal Ty, something a stranger would overlook. I don't want our deeds to hurt Corwin even if we use the Academae's services."

Bosch took a sip, "We should reach out to Commandant Thalassinus as well... and perhaps Sabina. What do you think?"

at the Vault

Trey almost immediately goes to the coins, pointing at them. this is why, whoever is behind this was using the coins to spread the disease. luckily much of that has been dealt with. but there may still be more to come. I would recommend that you limit those handling the coins, at lest for now.

turning to Ishani, If you could have one of your top experts on diseases go to the Temple of dawnflower, it would be most appreciated.

after the Speech

several of the coins showed up at the Grand Vault of Abadar, some of the money counters were infected. while you handle the politics of things, I will return to my Temple to lend what aid I can to put an end to the Blood Veil.

"No problem Bossman. I'll scope somethin' outta the place. As for the others... I dunno. Don't know the Commandant, and as much as I hope Sabina's not involved, I'd be an idiot to believe she isn't."
Ty nods , then frowns, as he talks.
" To be honest, I'm a little stumped on how to find the Seny. He and I don' exactly run in the same circles. Doubtful any of my friends on the river have seen him."
Nodding at Trey as she prepares to return to the temple.
" Jus' keep yourself safe, Trey. You might be the best hope the little folk have to fight this plague."

At the Fishery
Typhon knows the Sable Company Headquarters are located in the Great Tower, just north of the Academae. The two-hundred foot tall building houses a military academy, the Sable Company Marines, and the upper floors hold an aerie for the Company's hippogryphs.
I marked it on the Korvosa Map.

.

The Seneschal's Apartment
The perfectly cobbled streets of Citadel Crest are busier than other areas of Korvosa. Armored guards bearing the crests of noble houses and merchant families stand watch outside the district’s mansions and shops. With Cressida’s directions and the clearly marked street signs, it is no trouble to find the Seneschal’s apartment building. A bronze door allows access to the gray granite building. Inside the posh lobby, complete with upholstered chairs, a burbling fountain, and vases of fresh, blooming flowers, a dapper young attendant in a uniform greets you. ”Welcome. How may I assist you today?” After explaining that you wish to visit Neolandus’s apartment and show your badges as proof of your authority, he graciously leads you to the second floor and raps sharply on an apartment door. In an apologetic tone, he explains ”Policy insists that I must ask the tenant’s permission before opening the door.” After a few minutes with no response, he selects a brass key from his belt and unlocks the door, but does not open it. ”If I may assist you in any way, please contact me at the front desk. When you are finished, please let me know so that I may re-lock the room.” With a bow, he vanishes, leaving you to your task.

Let me know if you would do something differently or ask any questions of the attendant.

Opening the door, you find the apartment consists of small but lavish rooms. The combination parlor and study has comfortable seats for entertaining several guests near a cozy fireplace. Tapestries depicting forest scenes decorate the walls and a tidy mahogany desk holds several well used quills and blank papers. The book shelf on the wall holds tomes like Codex of Korvosan Law: Volume XIV, The Official Guide to The Customs and History of Her Majesty's Infernal Cheliax and Montlarion Jeggare's Guide to Identifying Plants and Animals of Varisia. Within a small closet are several pairs of shoes and boots, from gleaming black dress shoes to well worn boots of a woodsman. Two cloaks hang on pegs.

The small kitchen and dining table with two chairs look as if they were not used frequently. At the same time, a display case of finely wrought dwarven silverware and authentic Vudran plates and bowls attest to Neolandus's wealth.

The bedroom door is closed, and the first thing that meets your eyes is a disturbing painting in a gilded frame. A young boy sleeps in a bed, tucked in and dreaming. He does not notice shadowy hands grasping at him through the windows, from under the bed, and between cracks in the walls. The eerie moonlight from the window gives the room a blue glow.

The rest of the bedroom is completely normal, yet expensive in contrast. A plush bearskin rug covers the floor near the bed, which is perfectly made and undisturbed. The dresser contains half a dozen identical black uniforms trimmed in red with the seal of Korvosa on the sleeves. However, it differs from the city's standard heraldry as white-winged red anchor flies over the shield in the center of the design - the symbol of the Sable Company. A small stand in front of a silver mirror holds a porcelain basin for washing, a hairbrush, and a shaving kit.

Whoever is going to The Senechal's apartment, please give me a perception check. You are welcome to take 20 if you feel you would take the time to do so since you are not rushed.

.

The Grand Vault
Elma shrieks at Trey's news of the plagued coins. Takis eyes the coins warily as if they might suddenly attack him. Archbanker Tuttle looks shocked. "That explains much. By Abadar's will, coins are meant to change hands frequently and are handled by the impoverished beggar as well as the prosperous merchant. Ishani, please go to the Temple of Sarenrae. It is the least we can do in appreciation for the news Trey has shared with us. I shall devise a way to purify the coins in our vault so that no further are infect."

Ishani looks troubled, but smiles at Trey nonetheless. "I knew you would have the answer, though I wasn't expecting that. Will you accompany me to the Temple of the Dawnflower, or do you have other business to attend to?"

Ty will look around with the utmost care. Looking for clues, but also for something that screams PERSONAL, like a very dog -eared well worn book or a hair brush with hair in it...
Take 20 on perception grants a 33...
" Kinda creepy, that painting is."
after looking around..
" It's almost like he didn't really live here..."

Don't know why this app on my phone won't let me post under my default alias but you know it's me.

The Seneschal's Apartment
Typhon finds several interesting things in his search.

In the closet, you find a well crafted longbow and quiver tucked under one of the cloaks. The wear on the handgrip of the bow indicate it was well used but also well cared for.

Among the papers in the desk are many receipts from Neolandus's personal transactions. Most are for groceries, ink, paper, and other mundane items. But three in particular catch your eye. They are all from a shop called "Exemplary Excrables" and signed by a proprietor by the name of Pilts Swastel. The address indicated that the shop is in Old Korvosa.

During further examination of the painting in the bedroom, Typhon finds the artist's signature: Salvador Scream.

Also in the bedroom, Typhon notices a book on the bedside table called The Travels and Adventures of Shanara Dosana. At a glance, the stories of the epic deeds of the beautiful elven protagonist seem highly unlikely and fanciful, yet the book is dog eared and worn. He also finds that the hair brush next to the wash basin is engraved with the message To NK. Love, SK. It contains several short brown and gray hairs.

As Typhon suspected, there are few personal items, as if the Seneschal did not spend much time at his apartment.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Bosch actually splits off from Ty as he searches the room, "I'm going to see if I can get anything out of the attendants. See what they have to say about this state of affairs. Catch up when you're done here."

Heading back down to the lobby, Bosch approaches the desk. "I have a few questions if you don't mind," he started, the picture of ease, "Did you often wait upon the Seneschal?"