thereal thom's (Inactive)

Game Master therealthom

Crimson Throne


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Survivor's Salvation

Sorry, I tried to post yesterday afternoon, but paizo crashed or something. Couldn't get back on.

Jeorik Vandor wrote:
"... the man ... seemed to be at odds with decency, the law, and ... I was merely acting to bring him to justice and remove him as a threat. And in the process we did find ... the queen's jewelry."

Wermis smiles grimly. "Good. You have more backbone than your father or Dorman. You'll have to give me the whole story over a beer some time. But now I have to go. Being too long in the company of them he nods at the Hellknights will ruin my reputation."


Survivor's Salvation
Iñigo wrote:


"That is disturbing news, sir. Why would the First Lord withhold His blessings on the ruling monarch of a lawful nation? Unless... the implications are disturbing. I'd rather not put it into words."

"But surely the Church cannot be blamed for that?"

Ornher looks grim. "Surely the Church can suffer for it if someone is of that mind. IF the First Lord withheld his blessing, then it looks as if he is no friend of the Crimson Throne." Ornher's expression darkens. "If I was too weak a vessel to carry the blessing he would have otherwise bestowed, then we are open to reprisals for that weakness from the First Lord, or from without."

Iñigo wrote:

"We must divine who shall be in-charge and curry favor with him, so that the Church will not be damaged by this. You think the Queen will be the one to hold the reins of power?"

"Yes, it will be Ileosa. The Seneschal was absent the entire time. The castle staff bows to her. The Guard and the Sable Company have apparently rushed to her defense."

Reebs smiles. "Given her reputation, we can hope that her delight in rule will outweigh her grief."


Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2
CrimsonDM wrote:
Wermis smiles grimly. "Good. You have more backbone than your father or Dorman. You'll have to give me the whole story over a beer some time. But now I have to go. Being too long in the company of them he nods at the Hellknights will ruin my reputation."

"A good evening uncle," says Jeorik.


"Then we must capitalize on the recovery of the Queen's jewels. Shall I call my companions to the temple to make it appear that we operated with the Church's blessing?"


Survivor's Salvation
Iñigo wrote:
"Then we must capitalize on the recovery of the Queen's jewels. Shall I call my companions to the temple to make it appear that we operated with the Church's blessing?"

"If you think they are amenable or malleable, do so. Go as far as you can, but we must avoid looking like we are stealing credit. Ileosa is adept at spotting social climbers and scorns them. Better to appear worthy and humble than overly ambitious. "

After a bit more small talk, Ornher departs for the night.

Jeorik Vandor wrote:
"A good evening uncle,"

.

"Good night, Jeorik." Wermis departs.

"Well, nephew, we'd best go up to bed. Better to be out of the Hellknight's way. At least we needn't fear for the table silver with them hear." Dorman's face is red and his hands tremble as he unclenches them. He leads the way upstairs.

The Hellknights have already spread a map on the dining table and are pouring over it.


Survivor's Salvation

Been having trouble with lost posts lately. Really I'm trying to post at least 3x per day.

That's the end of the day, unless anyone has something pressing to do. Sometime tomorrow (RL) I'll usher you all into the queen's throne room.


Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

With a sigh, Jeorik himself heads to bed.

In the morning, he dresses, sharpens his blades, tends to his mule and then obtains directions to the meeting place.


Male Elf Rogue 6

Once the Hellknight leaves the two of them, Keliwyn sits himself in a comfortable spot. "My apologies, dear, but I do hope you don't mind me spending the night," he says to Heather. "I was planning on leaving you to roam the city a bit and find out what I can about what's going on , but I don't think I'll chance it. Afterall, we do have a an early appointment with her majesty in the morning, and I would hate to miss it." Looking around, he adds, "I don't suppose suppose you have good bottle of wine and would care for a game or two of Towers?"


Female Human(1/2 Chelaxian 1/2 Varisian) Sorceress 3(favoured class)

Heather smiles at the slim Elf...

"Oh I'm sure I have some wine around here somewhere let me go and look"

She swishes off to the cellar and returns shortly with some wine and two goblets.

"I'm not averse to a game of Towers" she says pouring the rich red liquid "But are you sure you want to waste what's left of the night playing cards when there are better games we could be playing?"

She gives him a suggestive smile..

fade to black and reopen on the following morning I think


Survivor's Salvation

Appointment with the Queen.

The cool of the morning air evaporates quickly. The heavy grey clouds move in again bringing with them the heat and humidity so characteristic of the month of Arodus (August) in Korvosa. By midmorning the clouds will have burned off and the sun will rule the heavens.

Inigo: Another easy morning. No latrine duty, no KP. On your way to the kitchen you spot Vertas sitting in the garden.

Jeorik:You rise early after an uneasy night. Hellknights in and out the front door all night, the continual pulse of conversation often broken with orders announced more loudly than is really necessary. What was the point of trying to sleep? Terre and Marga are up before you though and, with the servants, have an ala carte breakfast set up in the garden. A few Hellknights sit in the garden eating. While you are eating Philomina comes down and joins you. She offers to guide you down to Eodred's Walk. If you refuse she presses her suit courteously but insistently, "I would be perfectly safe with you." Depending on your reaction, Terre shoos her away or not.

Keliwyn: however you spent the night. You wonder if Ambassador Kalissreavil has really tried to build up his reputation as a ladies' man, or if it's just an accident.

Heather: Preparing to leave for the day, you absentmindedly pick up Zellara's deck to slip it into your pocket. You hear
an echo of an unspoken greeting.

Feel free to post any actions this morning before or when you meet and just retcon your memories of the morning. I'm taking you straight to the Castle though.

As promised by the captain, a courier has left a note for each of you at your residence. It reads:
Please present yourselves at the Main Gate to Castle Korvosa at the eleventh hour today. -- Champagni, Captain and Aide to the Marshal of the Korvosan Guard.

Fortunately, a clock tower is part of the castle. Darthen had suggested meeting at the third bell. (9 am)

Walking to your rendezous, the streets are unaturally quiet for this hour. Usually the city would be up and bustling by now. A few dogs roam the streets. Doors and windows are shut and barred. The bakeries and coffee-houses are closed. Even the vagrants who would normally be pan-handling are not to be seen. Despite the curfew lifting at dawn, the city is taking a stay-at-home-and-see-what-happens approach to the day.

Inigo: Most of your route lies through the Heights. Aside from the lack of people, nothing much seems amiss. As you pass into the Midland district things resemble the end of Jeorik's walk more.

Heather and Keliwyn: If you're coming from the University area at the confluence of Northpoint, Midlands and the Heights, your walk will resemble Jeorik's or Inigo's depending on if you choose to walk mostly in the Midlands or the Heights. If you're coming from Theumanex College in East Shore, the streets are deserted, patrolled by men-at-arms from the leading militarily-minded noble Houses that reside there. Down by the docks there is an improvised barricade blocking the streets, but there is a narrow gap through which you may pass. Crossing the High Bridge into southern Midland there is a slight breeze. Southern Midland from the bridge to Eodred's Square then north to Eodred's Walk is quiet, but down the sidestreets to the south you catch glimpses of barricades, burnt out street-fires, and once the charred frame of a house.

Jeorik: The properous Northgate portion of Northpoint seems subdued but not much affected by the events of last night. Walking south into the mercantile then the less affluent residential, warehouse, and waterfront portions of the district things get continuously worse. Barricades, ashes from fires in the streets. Bloodstains and debris suggesting broken improvised weapons mark occasional patches of the cobbles.

Five blocks from Eodred's Walk Jeorik overtakes a man stumbling southward. His head has been roughly bandaged, but blood has seeped out, matting his hair around his right ear. He staggers unsteadily three steps left, two steps right, like a small sailboat that doesn't ease the sails blown by varying and unpredictable gusts. As you close the distance you can hear him moaning, " Ahhh, barishhh, Ugh, hellnishhh, OOhh...."

If Jeorik does the New York shuffle, nothing happens. Go to my next post.

If Jeorik stops to talk or help:

Spoiler:
The man is nearly incoherent. He doesn't answer the questions you ask, but repeatedly gives you his address and asks you to tell his wife Bev that he will be late getting home. Otherwise he wants no help from you.


Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

I allow Philomina to accompany me as far as the Walk. As we meet the injured man, I take due not of his address, and if possible make sure that he is walking in the right direction.

"It looks like this city had a rough night," I comment to Philomina, "I wonder if you will be alright walking back home on your own."


Survivor's Salvation

Eodred's Walk

Eodred's Walk is a semicircular group of fourteen permanent stores, which enclose the eastern side of Korvosa's biggest

bazarre, the Gold Market. Much more than gold is traded there, the market is comprised of tents and temporary stalls devoted

to all manner of mudane goods and staples.

Today the stalls and hawkers are absent, only the storefronts remain and only the tavern, Aram's Crown, is open. It is

easy to spot each other as you enter the market.

a list of the other stores, I can provide more information if you like.

Spoiler:
[list]
  • Basha's -- bookstore
  • Varisian Fortunes -- known to locals as Doom and Gloom
  • Galloping Ghost -- tack, harness, and barding
  • Gemshare Jewelers -- gems and jewlery
  • Hedge Wizardry -- alchemical and magical supplies.
  • High Bridge Haberdashery -- dependable clothing
  • Kep's -- fishmonger
  • Fair-fished Baitshop -- bait and fishing tackle
  • Pinking Shears -- barbershop
  • Slicing Dicers -- bladed weapons and tools
  • Smoked Foods -- exotic and common meats
  • Time Stop -- watches and clocks
  • Trapper's Hole -- hunting gear, especially bows.
  • May I have a knowledge(local) check from everyone except Jeorik please? Assuming that you're all on time, you have two hours to kill before your appointment.

    From the market you can look directly up Field Marshall Avenue at Castle Korvosa, nearly a quarter-mile away. (0.38 km, Radavel)

    more to come ....


    Survivor's Salvation
    Jeorik Vandor wrote:

    I allow Philomina to accompany me as far as the Walk. As we meet the injured man, I take due not of his address, and if possible make sure that he is walking in the right direction.

    "It looks like this city had a rough night," I comment to Philomina, "I wonder if you will be alright walking back home on your own."

    Philomina nearly squeals with delight, when Jeorik agrees to let het come. As they walk south she points out various sights, most some distance off your route. "There's the top of the Great Tower. That's the home of the Sable Company. Ohh and just down that street you can see the edge of the Bank of Abadar ..."

    Philomina shows only a little sympathy for the man, but can confirm for Jeorik that he is headed in the right direction.

    Philomina shivers as she looks back up the street to home. "I don't know, cousin. The city is strange and menacing this morning."

    The trap is sprung!

    "Perhaps I should stay with you and go to the castle too."


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2
    CrimsonDM wrote:


    The trap is sprung!

    "Perhaps I should stay with you and go to the castle too."

    Half expecting just such a response, I smile as I reply, "Very well, go ahead and tag along, but I doubt you'll be allowed in with us to see the queen."


    Inigo chats with Master Vertas. "The blessing of the First Lord to you, Master Vertas, this morning."


    Cookie Jar Pilferer 9 ; Dimensional Explorer 4
    Iñigo wrote:
    Inigo chats with Master Vertas. "The blessing of the First Lord to you, Master Vertas, this morning."

    "Ahh, Iñigo, " the old Inquisitor rasps. "Has the new Grandmaster fobbed you off as an old man's assistant? Come, sit down. How do you like the new management?" He does seemed pleased to see you.


    "Well, he cannot do worse than the previous one, ha ha ha."

    "I wanted to talk with about the recent illness that took the King. What do you make of it? I mean the healing magic having no effect."


    Male Elf Rogue 6
    Heather of Korvosa II wrote:

    Heather smiles at the slim Elf...

    "Oh I'm sure I have some wine around here somewhere let me go and look"

    She swishes off to the cellar and returns shortly with some wine and two goblets.

    "I'm not averse to a game of Towers" she says pouring the rich red liquid "But are you sure you want to waste what's left of the night playing cards when there are better games we could be playing?"

    She gives him a suggestive smile..

    fade to black and reopen on the following morning I think

    Boom boom chicka chicka boom boom

    Please feel free to make the know (local) roll for me. I'm posting from my phone and can't cut & paste from Invisible Castle.


    Female Human(1/2 Chelaxian 1/2 Varisian) Sorceress 3(favoured class)

    Heather pauses momentarily as the feeling passes through her then pockets the cards...the morning is bright after the long night and she has a wealth of new experience..much of which she can never discuss with her parents

    After breakfast she and Kel make their way down to the square noting the damage from the riots she feels her heart fall again but it perks up when she sees Jeorik and Phil

    "Good Morning friends...I trust you slept well" she exchanges a secret smile with Kel

    Know.(local)1d20+5=23


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Jeorik waves in greeting, "Erastil's blessings this fine morning," he says as Heather and Keliwyn approach.

    "I didn't sleep overly well," he confesses with a grin in answer to Heather's own greetings, "There were Hellknights banging around in the house all through the dark. But at least we were safe from being murdered in our sleep."


    Survivor's Salvation
    Iñigo wrote:

    "Well, he cannot do worse than the previous one, ha ha ha."

    "I wanted to talk with about the recent illness that took the King. What do you make of it? I mean the healing magic having no effect."

    Vertas sits quietly a moment, stroking his chin. "Hard to say. Fate. Divine curse. Some sort of anti-magic field applied to the king's chamber. Some other lethal magic. A gaggle of incompetent healers. Perhaps the king wanted to die and resisted the spells. There's not enough information. Your conjecture would be as good as mine."

    Jeorik wrote:
    Half expecting just such a response, I smile as I reply, "Very well, go ahead and tag along, but I doubt you'll be allowed in with us to see the queen."

    Philomina looks quite pleased. "Ohh I shan't be any trouble."


    Survivor's Salvation

    Castle Korvosa

    There are large buildings in Korvosa, the Academe's main hall for example, or, the Great Tower which is the home of the Sable company, but nothing in the city matches the sheer bulk of the Castle. Were the keep by itself, the Great Tower would be taller; the Academe's Hall would rival it. (And Inigo would have seen at least a half dozen larger buildings in CHeliax) But the Castle with its ebon walls and ornately gothic towers stands atop the top of the Grand Mastaba.

    The Grand Mastaba. It must be a Thassilonian artifact for surely the Shoanti that ruled this land before the Cheliaxians came could not have built such a massive structure. It is a truncated pyramid, nearly 150 yards along each side , rising up nearly that height to the broad platform on which the Castle is founded. The platform still about 70 yards square.
    The pyramid is aligned so the the corners points to the four cardinal points of the compass. The layers of stone are too tall to be comfortably scaled. So you walk almost half-way around the pyramid on ifs southern edges to reach the bridge-like ramp which scales the south-western face to reach the Castle's Main Gate. Along the way you can see disfigured southern corner, victim of masons seeking stone for other buildings in the early days of Korvosa. (The practice was outlawed when the Mustaba became thefoundation of the royal home.)

    Guardsmen can be seen on the Keep ramparts, on the top of the pyramid, and patroling the streets bodering it. At the base of the ramp, a Captain briefly interviews you and asks your business there. You have already been cleared for entry. You may enter, but you must leave all weapons here. To her disappointment, Philomina is not allowed to pass.

    At the top of the ramp your are met by a page who leads you through the Main gate, the courtyard, the wide double doors of the Keep proper and up to the third floor, Throne room of Korvosa. At the top of this flight of stairs, a pretty, but powerfully built young woman in gleaming platemail as bright as Inigo's breastplate dances through exercises with a two-handed falchion. It can be no other than Sabina Merrin, the Queen's personal bodyguard and constant companion.

    She stops when you approach. "So you are the worthies who have pleased our queen? How would you be made known to her?"


    Survivor's Salvation

    Almost forgot. Darthen arrives late to Eodred's Walk. It is obvious that he has taken pains to look his best. Face washed, hair combed, boots -- and even his belt -- shined. After his initial greeting he follows the group and says little. The closer you get to the Castle and then the Throneroom the more subdued he becomes.


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Before entering the gate, Jeorik gives Philoma a grin and advises her, "Wait here for us, though I don't know how long we'll be. I'm sure that this is as safe a place as anyplace at the moment."


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Jeorik takes in all of the castle with something like open mouthed- amazement. But when they are greeted by the armored woman, he brings himself back to the business of putting on a good impression.

    "Ma'am," he says in greeting and then answers her question, "I am Jeorik Vandor of Ilsurian," and then he adds with a grin, thinking of how it will perturb the priest, "a lay-servant of Erastil. But just Jeorik Vandor of Ilsurian will do as an introduction I guess."


    In answer to Sabina Merrin's query, Inigo declares, "I am Inigo, servant of the First Lord. The Church stands ready to support her majesty in any way."


    Male Elf Rogue 6
    Jeorik Vandor wrote:

    Jeorik waves in greeting, "Erastil's blessings this fine morning," he says as Heather and Keliwyn approach.

    "I didn't sleep overly well," he confesses with a grin in answer to Heather's own greetings, "There were Hellknights banging around in the house all through the dark. But at least we were safe from being murdered in our sleep."

    "We ran in to some Hellknights, too, and they were all business, but I have to say that I slept just fine," Keliwyn says with a smile. "But as my people say, 'Another day, another path,' and I have to say, I am curious what this day holds for us."

    Walking to the castle, Keliwyn is as friendly as ever, making it a point to chat with everyone and hear their various thoughts on city's events.

    Upon being created by the Queen's guard, Keliwyn bows with a flourish, "Keliwyn T'Alios of the Mierani, and it is truly a delight to greet someone of your reknown."


    Survivor's Salvation

    Wellard, can we get a post from Heather?

    The short silence descends on the group, which, after a moment, Darthen breaks with, "I'm Darthen, ahhh, of Korvosa." Sabina turns to look at the last member of the party.


    Female Human(1/2 Chelaxian 1/2 Varisian) Sorceress 3(favoured class)

    sorry I took so long but this was a post I had to think long and hard over

    Heather has been silent on the walk up to the castle and she raises the hood of her voluminous black cloak before you enter the gates. She remains at the back of the group, silent as a ghost until the others finish introducing themselves

    Then she slowly lowers the hood and looks Sabina in the eye. The rest of you notice immediately the resemblence between the two women, an air of sadness in Heathers manner and a hardening in Sabinas gaze

    "Do I have to introduce myself to you Sabina....or have you forgotten what your own sister looks like."

    cut to first commercial break


    Survivor's Salvation
    Heather of Korvosa II wrote:


    "Do I have to introduce myself to you Sabina....or have you forgotten what your own sister looks like."

    cut to first commercial break

    Sabina's hard expression lasts momentarily before it is replaced with a rigid smile. Her voice holds a false note of overly luxuriant cordiality. "Heather, dear. I certainly didn't expect to see you here, and among such company. It's so dangerous out. " Sarcasm tinted the last sentenence, changing to slight scorn in the next. "I would have expected you to stay safe at home with your books."

    She looks at the rest of the party appraisingly, a long moment for each, then sheathes the falchion. Her expression and tone return to something more normal. "You have all earned the queen's gratitude, and so mine too." This with a quick glance at Heather. "Come, despite her grief, she waits to meet and reward you. She believes accolades or retribution should quickly follow the deed or they mean nothing."

    She leads the way through a great arch carved with all manner of beasts and dragons. " In the throne room, royal etiquette under Eodred has been for all to stand. Ileosa has not set a new standard yet, but she is from Cheliax. I do not think it will be taken amiss were you to kneel."

    The throne room is a large open square without pillars or furniture save the great throne on a pyramidal dais six steps above floor level. The walls and floor are black, relieved with gilded moldings at the floor and ceiling and blood-red mortar between the black flagstones of the floor. The throne itself is tall and ornate and proportioned like a castle tower. Red cushions line the seat and backrest. Behind the throne a full height apple-red window glows with the entering sunlight.

    Sabina motins for you to wait about 15 feet from the dais. She goes to a side door, opens it, converses quietly then turns and announces "Queen Ileosa Arbasti, Royal Sovereign of Korvosa."

    The queen glides out of the door toward you, dressed in black and veiled.

    If anyone wants to interject anything go ahead and we'll retcon it.


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Upon hearing the woman mention kneeling as a viable alternative to standing, Jeorik panics momentarily. He had not considered the possibility of having to kneel to royalty, something that cuts across his natural inclination and training both. He decides to take a cue from his comrades. If they kneel, he will do so as well, though last, If they remain standing, he will remain standing, though with a polite and deferential bow at the appropriate time.

    With this decided he unconsciously shuffles himself to the back of the group to better watch their reactions to their queen.


    Female Human(1/2 Chelaxian 1/2 Varisian) Sorceress 3(favoured class)

    Heather's lips tighten slightly at Sabina's comments but she deigns not to respond to the jibes directed at her she moves along with the reast of the group her face expressionless now.

    When the queen enters Heather drops a low and perfectly executed curtsey but resumes a standing position.Ileosa will tell her if she wishes her to kneel..not Sabina.


    Are members of the Church required by protocol to kneel? Perhaps a respectful nod is enough. We owe our allegiance first to our deity before any mortal ruler.


    Survivor's Salvation
    Iñigo wrote:
    Are members of the Church required by protocol to kneel? Perhaps a respectful nod is enough. We owe our allegiance first to our deity before any mortal ruler.

    Agreed deity would come first. Would that prohibit kneeling as a gesture of respect or submission to worldly power? Possibly. It would certainly be the goal of the Church to be so recognized by the crown and the people that clergy wouldn't have to kneel.

    Protocol would depend on local customs of the court. Ileosa has not offically changed the existing protocol. Mostly depends how much you and Reebs want to pander to the queen.

    Whatever you do you won't get in trouble with Azmo, maybe with your hierarchy, maybe not. I put this in as an RP challenge, just to see what you all would do.


    Do we have the jewels to present to the Queen as part of the ceremony? Or is it already with her?

    Based on my conversation with the Grandmaster, we really do need to get on the Queen's good side... oh well.

    Inigo performs a respectful gesture reminiscent of the act of fealty performed by the paracounts of Cheliax in favor of the Empress. The Queen should appreciate the implications of such a gesture, i.e. placing her at par with the royalty of Cheliax. That should tickle her ego.

    "Your majesty, the blessing of the First Lord be with you."


    Survivor's Salvation
    Iñigo wrote:
    Do we have the jewels to present to the Queen as part of the ceremony? Or is it already with her?

    I believe Jeorik has the brooch. At least he signed the receipt.

    Heather of Korvosa II wrote:


    When the queen enters Heather drops a low and perfectly executed curtsey but resumes a standing position.Ileosa will tell her if she wishes her to kneel..not Sabina.

    Sabina, standing behind the queen to her right says calmly, "Your Majesty, Heather Whiteraven, Magistrix of Korvosa, and my sister."

    Ileosa smiles, and nods, "How interesting. Sabina never talks of family. One had imagined she was an orphan."

    Iñigo wrote:

    Inigo performs a respectful gesture reminiscent of the act of fealty performed by the paracounts of Cheliax in favor of the Empress. ... That should tickle her ego.

    "Your majesty, the blessing of the First Lord be with you."

    Sabina intones, "Iñigo, servant of Azmodeus. He has offered the aid of his church."

    Ileosa's smile fades. "Your Grandmaster Reebs has as well. I shall call upon you in need."

    Darthen and Jeorik are stalling. Does one of them step up or is Keliwyn next?


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Jeorik, remembering that he has the broach, and taking stock of the behavior of the other two, steps forward and does what he hopes is a courtly bow.

    Diplomacy Check: 1d20+2=11

    At the same time he holds forth the queens broach.


    Male Elf Rogue 6

    With even more of a flourish that he performed for Sabina, Keliwyn bows formally, half-kneeling, and says,"Queen, it is truly wonderful to be in your presence again. My condolences on your recent loss. The King will surely be missed."

    Nicely done, Radavel. Don't forget to check in on Iskandria when you get a chance. There's some question whether Liet has checked out.


    Survivor's Salvation
    Jeorik Vandor wrote:

    Jeorik, remembering that he has the broach, and taking stock of the behavior of the other two, steps forward and does what he hopes is a courtly bow.

    At the same time he holds forth the queens broach.

    Before Sabina can speak, the queen, quick as a stooping falcon, takes two steps forward and snatches the brooch from Jeorik's hand. In doing so she steps fully into the light. The sheer veil about her face can not conceal that Ileosa is beautiful. In the red light of the window her hair positively flames. Nor does the mourning dress try. It is black, but cut and laced to closely follow her well-proportioned curves. The only blemish in her appearance are some lumps in the tight-fitting sleeves on her forearms. Bandages perhaps?

    Brooch in hand, the queen raises her gaze to Jeorik's face while Sabina says, "Jeorik Vandor, Son of Ilsurian." The queen nods and moves on.

    Jeorik Vandor wrote:
    With even more of a flourish that he performed for Sabina, Keliwyn bows formally, half-kneeling, and says,"Queen, it is truly wonderful to be in your presence again. My condolences on your recent loss. The King will surely be missed."

    "Keliwyn T'Alios of the Mierani." Sabina says as they come to the elf.

    The queen nods, smiles, "Thank you, Keliwyn."

    Finally Darthen is introduced. He manages a passable bow.

    The queen ascends to the throne and sits. "My grief sits heavy on me." At this she holds out her hands to the party as if offering a large invisible bowl of fruit. " But through the return of this trinket, you have given me a symbol of hope. I thank you for your service and honor." She motions and two footmen come from the side door bearing a chest between them. They lay it on the ground in front of you. " So you are rewarded."

    "These are dark times for Korvosa. The city is tearing itself apart. I love this city as I loved my late husband. I have lost him, but his home, my city, must stand. "

    "Therefore, I ask you, as citizens and people of honor to stand by me and the city. Will you help me to hold the city together?"

    Radavel:

    Spoiler:
    Ancient Cheliaxian legends have several instances of people cutting or piercing themselves in grief at their loved one's death.


    "For the kingdom, your majesty, you can count on my steel."


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2

    Jeorik answers the queen, "As a man of honor, I shall do what I can your majesty. What would you have us do?"


    Male Elf Rogue 6

    Keliwyn nods in agreement with his friends, and says, "Although my ancestors lives in the forests far to the east, Korvosa has long been my home. I am at your service, Queen."


    Survivor's Salvation

    The queen breathes out. "Thank you, all. The Korvosan Guard and Sable Company are stretched thin. Help them to keep the peace. I will send a messenger ahead of you to Marshal Croft. No doubt there will be something for you to do once you report to her."

    The queen sags against the back of the throne. " This has all been too much. Please forgive me, I must retire. Again, you have my gratitude, and the thanks of the city."

    Unless you've further comments or questions, Sabina will see you out. The two footmen will follow with the chest.


    To Marshal Croft then?


    Male Human Fighter 3/ Paladin 2
    Iñigo wrote:
    To Marshal Croft then?

    "Perhaps," says Jeorik, "it would be proper to examine the contents of the chest away from the palace, as the queen herself did not reveal what was in it. Why not take a brief moment at my uncle's to open it and then from there travel to see this Marshal."


    Survivor's Salvation

    Darthen agrees it might be best to put the reward someplace safe before going to see the Marshal. Philomina, who has no desire to see the Marshal, urges the adoption of Jeorik's plan.


    Male Elf Rogue 6
    Jeorik Vandor wrote:
    Iñigo wrote:
    To Marshal Croft then?
    "Perhaps," says Jeorik, "it would be proper to examine the contents of the chest away from the palace, as the queen herself did not reveal what was in it. Why not take a brief moment at my uncle's to open it and then from there travel to see this Marshal."

    "Agreed," says Keliwyn, I'm as curious as anyone as to what is inside the chest, and we should make sure we are all in agreement before we undertake such service in the name of the Queen."

    Congrats, Neil, on making it to the round of 32. Good luck, and don't forget us little people. If you ever get to write a published adventure, please make sure to mention Keliwyn as an NPC.


    Survivor's Salvation

    Sounds like you're heading back to the Vandor's, before going to the citadel. In any event the chest is the chest and wherever you go first the journey goes like this:

    Two additional footmen join you at the stairs to help the first two with the chest. Two 6'poles are produced and fed through holes in the sides so that the chest can be carried like a sedan chair. The four of them strain with it down the stairs, but seem to carry it fairly easily on level ground. As they follow you through the city they keep to their duty, but become fatigued and request a rest stop near the end.

    Philomina wants to know all about the audience. What was the queen like? How about Sabina? What did they wear? How is the throne room furnished? She wishes she were there and commisioned by the queen to "save the city". If given any chance to participate in the discussion, she urges you to do service for the queen.

    *** Opening the chest ***

    The chest is solidly constructed of dark wood, with lighter inlaid accent pieces. A heavy lock holds down the hasp of the lid. The lead footman present you with the key and steps back.

    Inside the chest are fifteen silver ingots imprinted with the Royal Seal of Korvosa. Each ingot is worth 300 gp.

    If you return to the Vandor's Philomina, will take her leave there. If not she follows the party.

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