Queen Ileosa’s coronation ceremony takes place on the steps of Castle Korvosa. The castle looms atop the ancient Thassilonian pyramid that serves as its base, casting a shadow over the crowd of attendees that stuff the courtyard. A dias has been erected and filled with red and white flowers. Banners depicting the Korvosan hippogryph and trout line the dias and red, black, and silver flags flap in the sunny late-morning breeze.
Commandant Marcus Thalassinus Endrin, head of the Sable Company, waits on the stage with two real hippogryphs and fellow Sable Company Marines.
A fanfare of trumpets sounds the entrance of Queen Ileosa. Although her husband was just entombed the previous day, Queen Ileosa has abandoned her mourning garb. Instead, she wears a luxurious green dress that accents her fiery red hair and pale Chelish skin. Sabina stands nearby, wearing a suit of armor that only accents her breathtaking beauty. The bodyguard is scanning the crowd and today, she spots Typhon. It looks as if she winks at him, but at such a distance, she could be squinting because of the bright sun or have caught something in her eye.
After ritual speeches, declarations, and vows, Commandant Endrin brings forth a bejeweled crown. ”Citizens of Korvosa, I present to you Queen Ileosa Arabasti, the first of her name, the ruler of Korvosa and the Crimson Throne.” Endrin places the crown on Queen Ileosa’s head and bows deeply. The others on the stage drop to their knees, as do the onlookers that pack the square. After a moment, Endrin rises. ”Long live the queen!” he shouts. The crowd dutifully echoes back the cheer.
Queen Ileosa essentially repeats what she said at the funeral yesterday. "It is an honor to rule the city of Korvosa. Through law and order, I shall bring about great prosperity. To serve as an example, the person responsible for King Eodred's death will be punished. Much of Castle Korvosa's resources have been devoted to finding the murderer. Should you have any tips or evidence of wrongdoing, bring them to Lady Sabina Merrin."
Afterwards, you find that a festival is to take place. Fish, ale, and other foods are being served in pavilions hung with red cloth just outside Castle Korvosa. As the day progresses, musicians and singers entertain those who wish to dance or listen to tales of the Queen’s beauty.
Knowledge: Nobility DC 15:
Commandant Endrin crowning the queen is somewhat unusual. Typically, the Seneschal of Castle Korvosa typically crowns a new monarch. The current Seneschal is Neolandus Kalepopolis, who has been missing since the king’ death. Endrin is, however, second in command to the Seneschal.
Hookshank’s Trial
Spoiler:
You arrive at Citadel Volshynek, where Grau greets you at the gate. He looks much better than he did a few weeks ago, drunk and unbathed at the Fainting Peacock. ”Good morning, friends. Arbiter Zenderholm is just finishing up talking to one of the children. Field Marshall Kroft says that gnome murdered the kid’s brother. If it’s true, Zenderholm won’t stand for that. It’ll be the noose for him if it’s true. Grau ushers you into the Citadel to a small room. A bedraggled and tired-looking Hookshanks manacled in a chair. Two guards watch over him.
A few minutes later, Arbiter Zenderholm enters. She is a short, stern woman with long, black hair and a high-collared robe marked with the golden key of Abadar and the shield of Korvosa. She looks furious. ”Good morning,”[b] she says. Even her greeting somehow sounds stern. [b]”I am Arbiter Zenderholm. Do any of you have any accusations against Hookshanks Grueller?”
The Fishery
Spoiler:
Majenko quickly catches on to the fishing, going so far as to dig for worms to use as bait. When not fishing or darting about above the water, he sleeps curled up in the sunbeams that come through the windows of the fishery. He is particularly taken to Roscoe and occasionally attempts to take a nap next to the mastiff.
Typhon finds 10d6 ⇒ (6, 5, 5, 5, 2, 3, 5, 3, 4, 2) = 40 gold pieces worth of stuff as he scavenges underneath the fishery and around the barge. He also encounters a significant pile of junk on the riverbed below the hole in the floor in Lamm’s room, all of it worthless. He sights the jigsaw shark once, but it keeps its distance.
Corwin finds that many of his friends are receptive to the idea. The Academae is quite expensive and competing schools in Korvosa tend to be of significantly lower quality.
The Fainting Peacock
Spoiler:
Theandra greets Bosch warmly. ”Good to see ya again, Bosch. What can I do for you?”
Bosch shakes his head at Typhon's choices but holds his tongue, purchasing two sets of courtier's garb as well. One for him and one for his daughter. For himself he chose a well tailored jerkin of black and gold intricately patterned brocade (looking something like this link.) with a clean white tunic, simple trousers and a new pair of boots. The simplicity of the outfit was belied by the quality and the cut of the cloth, reflecting the man who wore it rather than aspiring to something else. Bee got a red dress of similarly patterned damask with a white underdress.
On their way out with their purchases in tow, Bosch stopped Typhon and handed him a sheathed dagger.
"Something to match the one we found in Lamm's possession," He said, looking at the half-elf evenly. Even in the sheath, it was easy to tell the leaf shaped blade was impressively balanced for striking and throwing. The hilt would fit Typhon's hand almost perfectly.
"My father always told me that when you truly put your heart into a piece, you leave a bit of your soul there. Folded into the steel, he said. A piece like that should never be drawn until absolutely needed."
The Coronation
Spoiler:
Bosch watches the proceedings, lost in thought but dressed nicely this time after his trip to the haberdashery. He again carries Bee upon his shoulders, having convinced the little girl to dress up as well. Even Roscoe was freshly groomed and wearing his fine barding.
So lost in thought was he that he missed the missed the cheer. Bee only half-heartedly follows along, more enchanted by the presence of the Sable Company and Sabina. Roscoe paced around Bosch and his companions, following some half-buried instinct to keep them together in this crowd.
The Trial
Spoiler:
"The accused aided and abetted the notorious Graeden Lamm in numerous kidnappings including my own daughter," Bosch says grimly.
"To hear the children tell it, he also terrorized them regularly," he stared at the gnome evenly.
"I take no joy in this Hooks, no satisfaction of revenge. This is the price of your deeds."
The Fainting Peacock
Spoiler:
"I need your help Thea. See I have it in my mind to put together something of a dinner for my friends. A celebration of what we have managed to do together so far but I'm a frankly terrible cook. Bee tells me so all the time. I was wondering if I could convince you to cater this for me, could use some tables too... Some music would be nice too."
The Fishery
Roscoe seems temporarily puzzled by the presence of the scaly, winged thing that has decided to try to sleep on him. The dog quickly adapts to the creature though, treating it with the same care he demonstrates around Bee and Wren. He even goes so far as to gingerly scoop the little lizard up in his mouth and move it to a new location when their mid-day naps are disrupted.
Dumbfounded by the gift, Ty stutters a response.." T-Thank you Bosch. I really hadn't expected this. I will use it with honor and responsibility." He seems embarrassed, like he isn't used to receiving gifts at all.
Coronation
Spoiler:
Wearing the crimson outfit today, Ty tries hard to get nearer the royal dais upon which the ceremony is taking place but to no avail. He is of common blood and an orphan at that. Sighing in frustration he stands as near as can be. Upon seeing the Queen arrive he immediately scans for Sabina, flashing a bright smile when he sees her, but not sure if she noticed.
A wink?! She winked!! she noticed!He cheers loudly for Queen Ileosa and bows with more respect than he's ever shown before, then he spends the rest of the day in kind of a clouded state wondering around the group and absently petting Roscoe.
Later as the afternoon progresses he wonders the festival looking for Sabina, hoping to engage her in one or more of the dances that have sprung up.
Fishery
Spoiler:
Ty will take the salvage he finds to his usual 'fence' and trade it in for the gold. He receives 35gp (the 5 being the fencing fee), and takes it to the usual hang outs where his street friends are. Spending the 35 on rounds for the house and food for the people he knows that have a hard time getting it. Like Crippled Mary who has a child but cant walk, or One Armed Dan, the old sailor who lost his arm to a Bunyip attack. He seems to be enjoying himself and is happy. having new and faithful friends is a new and wonderful experience for him.
DM:
I see Ty's alignment shifting from Neutral to Neutral Good, as his friends have affected him greatly. life is good.
Chelaxian Male Professor of Thassilonian History 2 || hp 13/13 || AC 11(15), touch 11(15), flatfooted 10(14) || Perception +3, Sense Motive +3 || Fort +1, Ref +1, Will +7 || CMB +0, CMD 11 || Init +1 || Harrow 4
Funeral:
Rather than fighting against the crowds lining the streets, Corwin leads Wren directly down to the Gray District early in the morning as the sun begins to crest to the east. Knowing that the procession will take some time to arrive, Corwin takes the time to teach Wren something about the various religions and burial customs telling her various stories to keep her entertained. While the typical Chelaxian customs are not interesting to her, hearing tales about the Shovanti rituals and the Osirion mummification process keeps her horrified and entertained for the several hours before the procession arrives.
As the morning sun rises to its apex, the dignitaries of the city speak at length about the late king and his accomplishments, mostly the usual banal praise that politicians say to one another in public. However, as the Queen speechifies, Corwin begins to frown.
"I don't like this child. The Queen shouldn't be saying the things that she is. She should be focusing on maintaining the city, not trying to whip the city up into a frenzy of suspicion."
"Do you think that she is scared Father?", she asks, her voice barely carrying over the Queen's magically amplified voice.
"I don't believe so. I didn't get the impression that she was much scared of anything when I met her. And her guard was quite impressive. So I don't think that its that she is scared."
"It could be like one of the old Chelaxian operas, where the lady knows who the betrayer is, but is powerless to stop them. I like those the best, they are so tragic." Wren sighs.
"Irori's eyes child, where did you find Chelaxian operas? Full of nonsense and drivel! In any regard...I hope that your theory is incorrect. If there is a threat out there that the Queen is incapable of dealing with, we little people are in for a challenging time."
Coronation:
Bosch, Bee, Corwin and Wren stand close together to watch the coronation. After Bee is lifted onto Bosch's shoulders, Corwin is forced to do the same, and spends the rest of the day with a wrenched back.
The Fishery:
Corwin and Wren spend the next few days working back and forth between the Academae and the Fishery. Corwin researches and purchases several scrolls for his studies, then meets with several of his old colleagues, putting out feelers for the opening of a new primary school. Interestingly enough, the response is overwhelmingly positive, Corwin's long history of tutoring has led to local renown in the education profession and he quickly has a small list of children of various ages drawn up to start classes. Interestingly enough, the location of the Fishery is actually a benefit as it is far enough away from The Heights to not directly compete with the Academae as well as providing a "separation" from the home district, so that the students are "away" when at school.
That isn't to say that Corwin isn't planning to spend money to improve the classroom and streetside facade of the Fishery as soon as practical...appearances must be kept, of course.
Skills Acrobatics +12, Climb +5, Escape Artist +7, Know(religion)+4, Know Hist3 Perception+13,Sense Motive+8,Stealth+12, Swim +5 Survival +5 Craft Bows +6, Ride 7Languages Common Tien Draconic Celestial
Human
BowStats:
MW Comp LB(Str +1)+10(1d8+3/x3) SB +4(1d6/x3) Flurry(2Atk), Defl Arr, Perf Strike(2d20)(2/day), Point Blank Shot+1+ 1 30ft, Precise Shot, Point Blank Master No AoO, Deadly Aim -1 +2 Many shot 2 arrows at once
Monk (Zen Archer) 32Arr 40Blnt 50Slvr
Vitals:
Init +9; Senses Perception +13 AC 19, touch 19, flat-footed 15 (+3 Dex, +1 dodge +5Monk) hp 35/41 Fort +5, Ref +8, Will +8
Bosch:
[/b]Bandru will in private go to Bosch
I am a simple monk with little needs. My life has become worth living and this place is the cause. I offer this to the fixing up and maintaining of the fishery as a place for young ones to get off the streets.
Bandru hands Bosch a sack with coins in it and walks away.
400GP
trial:
Your honor I am but a simple monk but upon aiding the children in escaping their captivity it was found that Hooks was the overseer of the children and not too nice of one at that. It was told to me by the children that he regularly used violence and intimidation to force them to work. I must also add that he helped reluctanly as it were to the taking down of Lam
psuedodragon:
in draconicI find you to be majestic and wonderful. And as such I have taken some time to learn your language but still am not that versed. I would find it an honor to learn more of you and your kind
crafting days 1 and 2 craft masterwork silver arrow 50:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21 grants plus one to hit and is silver craft masterwork cold iron arrow 50:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17 grants plus one to hit and is cold iron
I can make short bows and long bows masterwork quality if anyone needs one. Hey Ty can you use a shortbow?
" I can indeed friend Bandru, but am much more comfortable with my knives and my crossbow. Thank you for the offer tho." MW shortbow is good, but I get better damage and range with the light crossbow. Mostly I'll use my knives anyway, especially if I can get one enchanted to return. Bow of some kind is to prevent them from standing off more than 50 feet ( max range of thrown knife without distance enchantment).
Arbiter Zenderholm listens impassively as Bosch and Bandru make their cases against Hookshanks. ”Thank you,” she says briskly. Turning to Hookshanks, she asks ”Do you care to rebut these statements, Mr. Grueller?”
”Oh, yes, Miss Arbiter,” Hookshanks says, looking as pitiful as possible. ”They are right, saying that I was mean to the children. But I hope I can make you understand. I had to do it. Otherwise Lamm would’ve killed me! I had no choice. Bluff:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19 Sense Motive:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (9) + 15 = 24
”Mr. Grueller,” Zenderholm says impassively, ”I just spoke with a young man named Kester. He claims that killed his brother with a knife while he worked at Gaedren Lamm's fishery. Is this true?
”THAT LITTLE RAT! I’LL KNIFE HIM TOO” Hookshanks says in a rage. Realizing his mistake, he clamps his mouth shut, looking fearfully at Arbiter Zenderholm.
”Hookshanks Grueller, I find you guilty of murder. Your sentence is death by firing squad three days hence at the Longacre Building.” The arbiter says, looking like she is barely controlling her own anger. Hookshanks starts to sob, begging alternatively for his life and to explain his innocence.
Once a guard has returned the sobbing Hookshanks to his cell, Arbiter Zenderholm speaks with Kester again. ”Kester, I am sorry for your loss. I understand that nothing can bring your brother back, and his life is worth more than any amount of gold. But Abadar teaches that one should be repaid in some way for a loss. In this case, his gift to you is some compensation for your brother’s death,” she says softly. She hands the boy, who is probably about twelve, a bag bulging with coins. ”This should help you with food and lodging. When we are done here, we will visit the Grand Bank of Abadar, to deposit the majority of this and see that this lasts you for awhile. Then we shall see about finding you a place to stay and some sort of education.”
Coronation
Spoiler:
By keeping an eye on the crowd’s movements, Typhon is able to edge closer and closer to Sabina, and finally finds himself face to face with her. It seems Queen Ileosa has given her the night off - Sabina has changed out of her armor into a long gray dress decorated with red embroidery. Silently, she offers her hand to Typhon. It’s quickly apparent that she is graceful, but not a particularly good dancer. She seems to not know the dance moves but is carefully imitating the other dancers. When the song finishes, Sabina curtsies elegantly before turning to the next person waiting to dance with her.
Fainting Peacock
Spoiler:
”That sounds fantastic, I’d be delighted to cater a party. My specialties are desserts and baked goods, but people say my oyster curry is to die for. How many would you like to serve, and when?” Theandra chats with Bosch about the children, several musicians that she knows and about the logistics of the party.
Orisini’s Academy
Spoiler:
Typhon finds that Orisini Academy is not particularly busy. Vencarlo explains that in the wake of recent events, many of his students have decided to take a few weeks off of class. However, Typhon recognizes someone Vencarlo introduces as Amin. He had been at the hands of a mob when Bosch stepped in and calmed the thugs into dispersing. The young noble is clumsily learning to wield a blunted practice rapier.
Vencarlo greets Typhon warmly. ”I’m glad you stopped by!” He shows Typhon the basics of wielding two weapons. He explains that the weapon in the main hand is used normally and the other for blocking or surprise attacks. But the first step is to master using the knife in either hand before trying to coordinate movements with both hands.
”Saw you got a dance with Sabina,” Vencarlo remarks as Typhon practices. ”She was one of my best students, left the school a couple years ago. Joined the guard and went right to the top.”
The Academae
Spoiler:
The Acadamae’s campus is even larger than Castle Korvosa and is practically a town unto itself. Corwin surmises that his colleagues and the students have hardly been affected by the recent riots in the city. Immediately after the King’s death, the gates were locked until the city calmed.
The majority of Corwin’s time is spent in the Halls of Induction. Solid dark-iron walls form three sides and the roof of this imposing but plain building known among the students and faculty as the Cube. Inside, the plainness of the Hall of Induction continues unabated, with five empty floors containing only a plain spiral staircase in the center. No chairs or chalkboards clutter the vast, open areas within where students spend hours upon hours practicing the ancient formulae of specific utterances and gestures that produce the desired effects. Instructors patrol the floors, ready at a moment’s notice to throw up magical walls to block errant spells cast by foolish or overeager students.
The Fishery
Spoiler:
Majenko preens at Bandru's request. At first, the little dragon is quite awkward with his teachings, simply saying the names of various items. As time goes on, his draconic becomes more conversational. It seems that he is picking up some words for human items from Bandru, especially the various foods and types of fish that are served at the fishery.
The first time Roscoe picks Majenko up, the pseudodragon squeals in protest. Over time, he turns the task of bothering Roscoe into a game - attempting to sneak up up on the dog nearly ten times his weight, then making a mad dash for the rafters when Roscoe smells him.
Typhon:
Yay for Typhon! That makes sense, given his actions and experiences.
"Wear it proudly and use it right," Bosch said, grasping Typhon's shoulder firmly. He had seen the change Typhon had undergone in their short acquaintance. The half-elf had been jumpy and quick to draw his daggers at first but now he was changing for the better and Bosch wanted to foster that change. With that, he took Bee's hand in his own and led the way back to the Fishery.
The Trial
Spoiler:
"Lad," Bosch says, approaching Kester, "I'm Bee's father, you remember me? My friends and I have set up in the old Fishery and we're turning it into something good. If you need a place, there's room there. Ain't much but Corwin's a good teacher, used to be with the Academae, and I'd be willing to take you on as an apprentice in smithing or the training of beasts. A couple of the others Lamm had kidnapped are staying with us. What do you say?" Bosch said, extending a hand to Kester. As far as he was concerned, by killing Lamm, he had taken responsibility for those that Lamm had abducted. It was his duty to make sure those without a home to go back to would grow up well.
The Coronation
Spoiler:
Laughing at seeing the pain he had inadvertently caused Corwin, Bosch managed to convince Bee to switch to Roscoe's back and offered Wren a place on his considerably stronger and higher shoulders to give the old man some relief. Bee was happy enough to ride around on Roscoe like an imperious knight complete with a wooden sword purchased for a pitance from a street vendor. The big dog was walking on egg shells since he was a far cry from a trained riding dog.
When the dancing started, Bosch returned Wren to her father's care and manages to track Typhon down at one of the dances. He gave Typhon a wide grin and exaggerated thumbs up when he sees just who the river rat was dancing with.
Ty dancing with the Queen's bodyguard... Odder things have happened.
Typhon accounted for, Bosch made his way toward one of the less formal dances with Bee in tow. He chose one that was in a style more popular with the working class and out in the Varisian countryside. The steps were easier and he liked the music more lively. The first dance was, of course, with Bee. Punctuated by him picking her up and spinning her around and eliciting shrieks of delight from the little girl.
The Fainting Peacock
Spoiler:
"Let's see," Bosch said, counting on his fingers, "I believe eighteen if all show up. The nine little ones from various sources, three guards, my four comrades, one friend and myself. I'm aiming for the end of the week but it is up to you and when you can get everything together."
I'm taking the 300gp out of what Bandru gave me and adding the rest to my inventory. If the children or the Fishery need anything else, let me know. It is also fair to say that Bosch brings up his plan to the others and visits Grau, Verik and Cressida at various points to invite them.
Ty eagerly accepts her hand an begins to dance. He is a little stiff as he does not know the steps either and is also watching the others and mimicking their steps. About the time he works up the courage to talk to her, the song ends and he finds himself ushered along as some other hopeful takes his place. Ty bows deeply when she does and blurts out at the last second " We should do this again sometime, my Lady." Gah, first I cant speak then I blurt out something stupid. This ship is sinking fast.
He stays for a while hoping for another dance but alas the line is long and she retires before he gets a chance. After which he will return to the more common area and dance a few with his friends, and a tavern wench or two.
Orisini's Academy
Spoiler:
Listening intently to Vencarlo's instructions, Ty begins to practice. While able to wield a dagger in either hand fairly deftly, he seems to fumble and become unbalanced when attempting two at once.
" Lady Sabina was a student here? What was she like? Did she use the rapier or another blade? What other interests does she have? Is she involved with someone or available?"Ty explodes in a rush of questions, then stops and ducks his head." Grr, sorry Vencarlo I am just besotted by her and have no access. Its making me crazy."
Fishery
Spoiler:
Ty will laugh at the antics of Roscoe and Majenko, throwing them both some tidbits of a fish he caught. He seems to like the little dragon well enough but doesn't really talk to it. In his small amount of spare time he will help Corwin set up his school room area, and continue on any repairs to the place. Mainly working to refit the barge and make it livable. Not that he has any real skill at that.
Tessa finishes up the final details on her new tattoo. It's a little red pseudodragon, rearing rampant with a grin on his face. She shows it to Majenko.
"You like it? I think I got you down pretty well. Here, let me show you a trick. If you're ever scared or need to hide, or you want to hang out with me and nobody's the wiser, just think about the tattoo real hard and imagine that it's you. Try it!"
Tessa waits while Majenko screws his eyes shut and concentrates. With a soft *pop*, Majenko vanishes... and the tattoo on Tessa's forearm suddenly blinks and looks around.
"Pretty cool, huh? Old Varisian trick. You can hop in whenever you want and nothing can get you. You get out just the same way you got in, by thinking. Hop on out now, I gotta bandage that up so it heals right."
We can continue on with these other events, feel free to add more! But plot stuff happens at the bottom!
The Trial
Spoiler:
”Wow! I could?” Kester smiles at Bosch, looking genuinely happy at the turn of events. ”Yeah, I want to see the bank, then I’ll come to stay with you.” Arbiter Zenderholm nods, mentioning that she will bring Kester to the fishery later in the day.
Bosch’s Party
Spoiler:
Bosch has no trouble arranging a dinner party for his new friends. The fishery looks as good as new after all the hard work everyone put in to clean it up.On the evening of the party, Theandra arrives in the late afternoon with assistants to help haul in tables and chairs. Theandra hangs paper lanterns around the main room while others set out tablecloths and silverware.
The children are quite excited by the festivity. Although this party does not come close to matching the elegance of the queen’s coronation, this party has an air of fun and excitement.The other guests begin to arrive at the agreed upon time, greeting their host and other friends.
After a bit of time for drinks and greetings, everyone settles down for dinner, which Theandra and her crew serve. Her curried oysters are as excellent as promised, served alongside delicious side dishes that even picky children would enjoy.
Orisini’s Academy
Spoiler:
”Sabina prefers the falchion. She’s surprisingly strong, so it suits her. Strong-headed, too. You know Grau, right? He was one of my students as well. He kept pressing his luck with her, even though she turned down his advances. I hate to tell this story since I should have put a stop to it. But I had to expel Grau after those antics. Fortunately, Sabina found her true calling and left on her own. I just hope that serving as Queen Ileosa’s bodyguard is something that deserves her attentions.” Vencarlo finishes the story wistfully, obviously distracted from Typhon and his other students.
”So the short answer to your question is, no, I don’t think she is seeing anyone at the moment, but getting to her would be tricky,” Vencarlo says with a chuckle, suddenly returning his attention to Typhon’s practice. He compliments Ty’s progress, noting that Ty seems to be catching on quite quickly to such a complex matter.
The Suspect
It has been weeks since Eodred II’s death, and things are finally starting to get back to normal in Korvosa. Yet still the streets thrum with unrest and wild rumors. Crime seems to be on the rise, with pickpocketings, robberies, and assaults skyrocketing. Some still hiss “usurper” and “murdering harlot” at the mere utterance of Ileosa’s name, and more shockingly, rumors that the king’s death was not of natural causes increasing. Most of the rumors purport that someone poisoned the king, and the queen herself has become the primary suspect in these rumor mills. Yet in the past day, the rumors name a new suspect - a young artist named Trinia Sabor, who painted a portrait of King Eodred just before his death. Supposedly, she poisoned the king on one of her many private visits to the king’s bedchamber.
Bosch:
About a week after going to Eel’s End, a nervous-looking man stops by the Fishery and passes off a sealed letter “for the bloke with the dog.” The letter reads I sniffed out your friend before your mangy dog did. Your friend is quite the character. He has been buying corpses left and right - but never in person. I’ve traced his lackeys hauling their nasty wheelbarrows to Potter’s Ward. You’re welcome. The letter is not signed but is marked by a drawing of a spider.
Bosch does not have long to consider the letter’s contents before a knock at the door...
About a week after visiting Eel’s End, a breathless Korvosan Guard bearing a message knocks on the Fishery door. He manages to gasp out ”Field Marshal Cressida needs to speak with you immediately. She should be arriving in a few moments."
When Cressida arrives, she quickly asks to discuss something in the closest available private room. She stations three guards out front of the Fishery while she explains. ”You’ve doubtless heard the stories that the king’s killer has been named. Yet there’s something more going on here, I’m afraid. Queen Ileosa could have quietly had this Trinia Sabor arrested at any time, yet the way in which she revealed the information to the city seems to me like she wants the riots to come back. The girl doesn’t stand a chance at seeing a trial— she’ll be lynched the moment anyone recognizes her. Worse, if she’s innocent, the real killer can use this distraction to throw us off the trail forever.”
Cressida continues. ”Before Trinia is executed, we need to be absolutely sure she did this. And that means we need to catch her before the mob. We know where she lives—a flat in Midland at 42 Moon Street—but soon, so will the mob. The mob’s covering most of Midland now, and Trinia’s flat is near the middle of the mess. I’ve got all available guards at work keeping things from getting any worse—and if I were to send them into Midland, they’d trigger a riot.” Cressida looks at the five of you hopefully.
“I’m sure you can see where this is going. I need you to get into Midland, find Trinia, and bring her back to me so we can deliver her, safe and sound, to somewhere where she can be interrogated, so we can be absolutely sure about her role in Eodred’s death. Get in there, catch her, and get out without letting the mob get its hands on her. Any questions?”
" Yeah especially for a commoner like me, BUT I aim to try." Ty says with a lopsided grin at Vencarlo.
"Anyway thank you for the training, I think I'm getting the hang of this." Ty practices a little while longer then approaches Vencarlo again...
" I really must be going now, Bosch is planning some sort of get together at the Fishery and we're all supposed to attend. It sounds fun.
You should join us. But if not I'll be back to see you at some point. Soon. Catch ya later, sir." with a slight bow of respect for Vencarlo Ty will make his exit.
Fishery
Spoiler:
On his way back to the Fishery, Ty will stop in at some of his more frequent Tavern/Bar hang outs and invite some of the serving wenches/waitresses. Aside from Tessa there seems to be a decided lack of women in everybody's lives.
At the party he has a good time. He will juggle knives for the children's amusement, dance with whomever asks and basically enjoy the company.
The Suspect
Ty immediately responds with " I'm In."
It's all he says but there is a slightly troubled look on his face.
I wonder why the Queen did it that way, all i can think of is that she doesn't want the girl telling her side of the story. Not a good sign, but hopefully it is just a mistake of her youth. Surely Sabina will help her think straight.
Orsini, that is who I forgot, I included him in the initial number though.
The Trial
Spoiler:
Bosch smiles and ruffles the kid's hair.
"I'd be honored, lad. Arbiter," Bosch said, bowing to them both before turning and leaving, heading for the Fishery.
Party
Spoiler:
Bosch plays the host well enough, making sure everyone has plenty to eat and drink and that all feel welcome. When dinner is finished, he calls for a toast.
"Friends, these past few days have been trying to say the least but without these trials none of us would have been drawn together. However, I fear that the trials are not over. If you lend me your strength, I will happily lend mine and together we will see our way through! To tomorrow and many more!"
The Suspect
Bosch slips the letter into his jerkin as the guards arrive.
Corpses and Potter's Ward, interesting.
"Cressida," Bosch says by way of greeting, risking such familiarity with his superior. He took all the information in with a slight frown. "Do you think she did it?" Bosch asked the Marshal, watching her with the same look he gave Verik earlier in the week, as if looking for some specific reaction from her.
Tessa immediately gets up and starts gathering her things.
"I'm in!" she says, shrugging on the shoulder straps of her armor. "I've been at the wrong end of a false trial before. I won't let that happen to her if there's a chance she's innocent."
Everyone raises their glasses at Bosch's toast. "To the future!" and "To Korvosa!" the guests shouts. The evening progresses merrily, music courtesy of the lively band Theandra hired. Vencarlo makes sure to dance with all the ladies present, including the ones Typhon invited as well as Bee, Wren, and Tessa.
The Suspect
Cressida sighs and lowers her voice. "I don't have any official reports, but a guard confessed to seeing Trinia slip something into King Eodred's tea before he took ill. Just after confessing today, this guard jumped off of the castle ramparts to his death."
"Honestly, I can't say whether or not Trinia is innocent. Whatever the case, no one deserves to be murdered at the hands of a mob." In response to Typhon and Tessa's eagerness, Cressida replies "I'm grateful for your support. Every minute we delay here is a minute for the mob to grow." The field marshal is clearly nervous and worried.
Cressida's directions indicate that the fishery is not far from Trinia's flat. Getting closer is relatively easy as Typhon leads the group on a route that avoids the main streets. Several times, he detours the party around angry mobs beginning to gather and patrols of Hellknights. Finally, when you arrive at the tenement in which Trinia is said to live, you find the place in a densely built section of the city, a place where, at ground level, direct sunlight is a rarity. Above, jury-rigged catwalks, overhanging roofs, lines of laundry, and homemade bridges of rope and boards create a cluttered tangle, a multi-level mess of gutters, upper floors, and rooftops. This is the slum above—a place known as the Shingles.
"Typhon, Bandru, see if you can find any alternate exits," Bosch said, studying the entrance to Trinia's flat.
"Ma'am?" He called out, knocking on the door, "Ma'am, the guard sent us for your protection," he knew there was a very good chance of her trying to flee since half the city was out for her blood but thankfully Bosch had Roscoe close at hand.
" Gotcha boss." She might try to escape through the rooftop slums.
Ty will circle around the building, looking for backdoors or access to the roof. He hasn't ever been through the shingles but he has heard about them and almost went there instead of the riverside.
perception:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
If he doesn't find any he will then try to climb up to the Shingles.
climb:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18 Lousy spot check.8(
Chelaxian Male Professor of Thassilonian History 2 || hp 13/13 || AC 11(15), touch 11(15), flatfooted 10(14) || Perception +3, Sense Motive +3 || Fort +1, Ref +1, Will +7 || CMB +0, CMD 11 || Init +1 || Harrow 4
The Visit
Corwin nods his agreement and starts packing up scrolls, but after a moment, he stops and looks at the Field Marshal.
"I have a thought. Could you take a squad of soldiers and march them to the north somewhere? On the way one or two of the soldiers could casually say that they are going to arrest someone. The rumor mill should do the rest and draw most of the mob off. It may buy us a bit more time to secure the artist." Corwin asks the Field Marshal.
At the Flat
Corwin hangs back beside Bosch as he announces their presence, eyes alert for challenges.
"You know Bosch, if I were her, I would run. Can she really trust that the Queen won't simply execute her?" he mutters, eyeing the rooftops.
Skills Acrobatics +12, Climb +5, Escape Artist +7, Know(religion)+4, Know Hist3 Perception+13,Sense Motive+8,Stealth+12, Swim +5 Survival +5 Craft Bows +6, Ride 7Languages Common Tien Draconic Celestial
Human
BowStats:
MW Comp LB(Str +1)+10(1d8+3/x3) SB +4(1d6/x3) Flurry(2Atk), Defl Arr, Perf Strike(2d20)(2/day), Point Blank Shot+1+ 1 30ft, Precise Shot, Point Blank Master No AoO, Deadly Aim -1 +2 Many shot 2 arrows at once
Monk (Zen Archer) 32Arr 40Blnt 50Slvr
Vitals:
Init +9; Senses Perception +13 AC 19, touch 19, flat-footed 15 (+3 Dex, +1 dodge +5Monk) hp 35/41 Fort +5, Ref +8, Will +8
Bandru will acknowledge the request and head to the back of the building looking for escape routes. He will try to be as stealthy as possible.
perception:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
Responding to Corwin, Field Marshall Kroft says "It can't to try. I don't know how much it will help, I'm sure the Hellknights and the Sable Company will be out in numbers too."
.
Trinia essentially lives in an apartment building, I should have been clearer. But......
From the outside, the tenement building is three stories tall with numerous ramshackle ladders, gangways, and shacks on the roof. Inside the building, a long hallway stretches down the main corridor to a back door and a stairway up. You would estimate there are around twenty residences inside this building.
Bandru, I'm going to assume you are at the back door unless you say otherwise Typhon, would you like to climb up the outside of the building to the roof or take the stairs?
Hearing the noise from the hallway, an old man with a long nose shuffles out from one of the apartments. He speaks much more loudly than is necessary - in fact, he is practically shouting. "Trinia? Are you looking for Trinia? She's such a nice young girl." He smiles at Bosch and continues in a somewhat quieter voice. "Agh, you wouldn't believe the awful racket some of the youngsters here put up. Practicin their instruments day and night and whatnot. Hey sonny, is that a dog? No pets allowed in this building, I'll have to report you to the landlord. Yep, Trinia, she's quiet as a mouse, and sweet as a strawberry." Unless someone interrupts him, the old man continues gossiping about his neighbors. He's clearly quite the busybody.
"I'm sorry sir, he is very well trained and will behave himself. I'd loath the idea of leaving him out in the street. Who knows what matter of ruffians are out there?" Bosch did not add that he was more concerned for anyone that tried to hurt Roscoe than Roscoe himself, the dog was truly sweet tempered but he was capable of defending himself.
Diplomacy:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
Almost on cue, Roscoe approaches the old man and sniffs his hand with his ears down and tail cautiously wagging.
"Yes sir, we are here to speak with Ms. Sabor. Do you know if she is in?"
The stairs definitely.
Ty will enter through the backdoor and take the stairs to the roof, in a run if possible, dodging any traffic in the way.
acrobatics:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Once on the roof he will look around for anything suspicious.
perception:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25 Do we have a description of Trinia? could be hard to tell her from others if not.
Chelaxian Male Professor of Thassilonian History 2 || hp 13/13 || AC 11(15), touch 11(15), flatfooted 10(14) || Perception +3, Sense Motive +3 || Fort +1, Ref +1, Will +7 || CMB +0, CMD 11 || Init +1 || Harrow 4
Corwin smiles as Bosch once more smoothly deals with a tense situation.
Good lad. Keep the locals on our side....I probably should look for any magical effects before we blunder into them.
Corwin makes a few quick gestures with his right hand, the ring on his hand flashing with sparks of magic, like a steel randomly clipping a piece of flint.
"Ess." he pronounces, then holds his hand before his face.
Cast detect magic. Quick 360, spin over the next few seconds, looking for any auras other than those on our persons. If he spots an aura, he will focus on it and try to determine its source by using spellcraft.
Sure, the Field Marshall described Trinia as a thin, attractive young woman around 18 years old with very short blonde hair.
"Is that so? Eh, if you're just going to visit, I guess the dog is okay... Good doggie," the old man says tentatively to Bosch and Roscoe. "Trinia lives up on the third floor, in the apartment in the southwest corner. I thought maybe you were comin to arrest her or something. But Trinia's a good girl, she wouldn't hurt a fly. She's such a generous young lady. Bought me a new mattress with the money she got from painting the king, and bought Miss Kerrin a new flute. Passed out a good amount of food and wine to us all," he says, gesturing to the other doors in the hallway. The old man continues talking even as his audience disappears up the stairs.
Corwin does not detect any magic on the ground floor of the building.
Bandru cannot see anything out of the ordinary from his position on the ground floor.
Typhon sprints up the stairs. Fortunately, at this time of day, the halls of the tenement building are not very busy. On the top floor, there are six doors that lead to different rooms, as well as a window out to the roof. Typhon has no trouble climbing out the window onto the roof. He notices a young woman with short blonde hair climbing out of another window at the other end of the building about 40 feet away. She looks up in surprise, and tenses, as if her next move will be to run away. Initiative rolls coming in a second.
Okay, it's time for a chase scene! Bear with me here. The rules:
Here’s how it works: You can move forward one ‘section’ each turn as a move-equivalent action. Each section approximates 30 feet, but it is an abstraction to convey a chase scene that could span a wide section of Korvosa and its rooftops.
Each section contains some sort of obstacle, described below. To move two sections, you must take a full-round action to overcome the obstacle in the section you start in. To move three sections, you must take a full-round action to overcome both obstacles in the section that you are starting on.
There are 15 sections. If Trinia gets past the 15th section before you catch her, the chase ends. If you can come up with another creative way to get around an obstacle, just ask. If it makes sense, I will probably allow it.
Full Chase Rules:
When a character moves, he decides if he wants to attempt to move one, two, or three cards. A character can move one card as a move-equivalent action automatically, or he can attempt to move two or three cards in his turn by taking dangerous shortcuts as a full-round action. If a character wants to move two cards, he must select one of the two skill checks from the card he starts his turn on to make in order to move two cards. If a character wants to move three cards, he must make both of the current card’s skill checks to progress.
If a character fails any of these checks by 5 or less, he only moves one card forward. If a character fails any of these checks by more than 5, he cannot move at all that turn, and if he fails two checks by more than 5, he falls 1d4×10 feet to the street below, taking the appropriate amount of falling damage.
A fallen character has two choices—he can either make a DC 15 Climb check on his turn to return to the card from which he fell, or he can wind his way through alleys and over fences and through mobs to continue the chase by making a DC 15 Strength or Dexterity check (his choice) to move one card—a fallen character cannot choose to attempt to move two or three cards until he climbs back up into the Shingles.
A character can also choose to make a ranged attack or cast a spell during his turn. If the action is a standard or move-equivalent action, he can still chose to move forward one card. If the action is a full-round action, he can’t move at all. For purposes of determining range, it’s easiest to assume that each card represents a distance of 30 feet. Although the Shingles could provide plenty of cover, Trinia herself is too panicked to look for cover or hide, so you don’t need to worry about that during ranged combat here.
While a character’s speed doesn’t directly affect how far he moves during the Shingle chase, it does affect how quickly he navigates obstacles. For each 10 feet slower than speed 30 a character moves, he suffers a cumulative –2 penalty on any skill check made to navigate these obstacles. Likewise, for every 10 feet faster than speed 30 he moves, he gains a +2 bonus on these checks.
Wow! What are the odds that both Trinia and Typhon as well as Tessa and Bandru would have the same initiatives? Haha. I'll roll off to see who goes first.
Trinia initiative roll off:1d20 ⇒ 9 Typhon initiative roll off:1d20 ⇒ 5
Tessa initiative roll off:1d20 ⇒ 13 Bandru initiative roll off:1d20 ⇒ 1
Phew... I will post Trinia's action next as well as the details about the obstacles. Anyone not on the roof can take a full round action to get there on their first turn.
Trinia pauses for a moment and looks at Typhon. "No! Please! I didn't do it!," she says, sounding frightened. She makes strange motions with her hands. She turns and starts running without waiting to see the effect of the spell, clambering to the rooftop of the building next door. She used a standard action to cast hideous laughter and her move action to move one section away. So Typhon is in the first section, Trinia is in the second section.
Typhon's will save against Hideous Laughter, DC 15:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16
"hahaha...no dammit, it isn't funny. Trinia we aren't here to arrest you, we ARE here to protect you. Wait!" Bluff:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15 standard action.
moving one section.
acrobatics:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16
Not attempting a grab or anything just getting nearer, with empty open hands.
Yep, you use your first round to get up the stairs. As written in the module, Trinia was supposed to start 4 sections ahead of you, but due to the party's smart strategy and good rolls (and Trinia's bad stealth check), she is only one section ahead.
Sorry for the confusion. Athletics = combination of climb and swim, house rule. If you have ranks in either one, use whichever is better. If you can convince me of how your armor check penalty wouldn't hinder you, I'll also allow a straight strength check.
Typhon rushes to catch up to Trinia. He is close to her now, but she doesn't seem interested in listening to what he has to say. Instead, she pulls a wand out of her pack and levels it at Typhon.
Typhon's will save against Daze Monster, DC 12:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10If he fails the save, Typhon is dazed for one round.
Trinia squeezes through an alley formed by two adjacent roofs. Meanwhile, Majenko chirps something before swooping up to the rooftop.
Draconic:
Don't want to hurt the running one, right? Want her to be sleeping?
He easily dodges the clutter and debris to catch up to Trinia. Majenko chirps again, as if to alert everyone to her location. He is attempting to move two sections Majenko's Acrobatics DC 10:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31any flying character receives a +10 bonus to rolls in the chase to simulate their ability to easily bypass obstacles.
Skills Acrobatics +12, Climb +5, Escape Artist +7, Know(religion)+4, Know Hist3 Perception+13,Sense Motive+8,Stealth+12, Swim +5 Survival +5 Craft Bows +6, Ride 7Languages Common Tien Draconic Celestial
Human
BowStats:
MW Comp LB(Str +1)+10(1d8+3/x3) SB +4(1d6/x3) Flurry(2Atk), Defl Arr, Perf Strike(2d20)(2/day), Point Blank Shot+1+ 1 30ft, Precise Shot, Point Blank Master No AoO, Deadly Aim -1 +2 Many shot 2 arrows at once
Monk (Zen Archer) 32Arr 40Blnt 50Slvr
Vitals:
Init +9; Senses Perception +13 AC 19, touch 19, flat-footed 15 (+3 Dex, +1 dodge +5Monk) hp 35/41 Fort +5, Ref +8, Will +8
Bandru attempting to catch up to the girl quickly and brashly attempts to force his way through the cluttered rooftop by pushing things aside and jumping over other obstacles.
"Roscoe!" Bosch tries to get the dog's attention again but only gets another whine for his trouble. "Damn, c'mon boy," Bosch says, relenting and leading the way.
Roscoe manages to make it through the cluttered roof, muscling aside old boxes and garbage like there is no tomorrow but immediately stops when he notices that Bosch is not following. Again the dog stops and looks back, whining slightly and concerned.
Trinia ignores Bandru and keeps running. A flock of pigeons takes to the air as she startles them out of the rafters, but she isn’t slowed by the flutter of wings and scratching beaks.
Trinia’s Acrobatics DC 15 to move 2 sections:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26Trinia is now in section 5
Majenko deftly dodges the pigeons, longingly looking as if he’d like to snatch one for a snack. Majenko’s DC 15 Acrobatics:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (16) + 12 = 28Majenko also makes it to section 5
Section 1 Cluttered Rooftop (Acrobatics DC 10 or Strength DC 12)
Section 2 Hidden Shortcut (Perception DC 12 or Knowledge: Local DC 18)
Section 3 Avoid Pigeon Flock (Acrobatics DC 15 or Knowledge: Nature DC 18)
Section 4 Use laundry rope to swing to next rooftop (Athletics DC 15 or Reflex DC 15)
Section 5 Dodge a group of vagrants (Acrobatics DC 10 or Diplomacy DC 12)
Section 6 Narrow Walkway (Acrobatics DC 12 or Athletics DC 15)
Section 7 Rooftop Garden (Acrobatics DC 12 or Knowledge: Nature DC 15)
Section 8 Smoking Chimney (Perception DC 12 or Acrobatics DC 15)
Section 9 Avoid patrol of Hellknights (Stealth DC 12 or Diplomacy DC 15)
Section 10 Overturned Rainbarrel (Athletics DC 12 or Acrobatics DC 15)
Section 11 Narrow Rooftop Leap (Acrobatics DC 12 or Athletics DC 10)
Section 12 Gap in Wall (Escape Artist DC 12 or Acrobatics DC 15)
Section 13 Rack of Chimneys Blocking Path (Escape Artist DC 10 or Acrobatics DC 12)
Section 14 Crumbling Rooftop (Acrobatics DC 18 or Reflex DC 15)
Section 15 Crowded Alleyway (Athletics DC 12 or Diplomacy DC 15)
Trinia's Stats:
AC 18/Touch 14/ FF 15
Fort: +2/Ref: +8/Will: +3
Actions for Round 3:
Trinia - moves 2 sections to end in section 5
Typhon
Corwin
Tessa & Majenko - Tessa following from the street. Majenko moved to section 5.
Bandru
Bosch & Roscoe
Actions for Round 2:
Trinia - Uses wand to cast daze monster, moves 1 section and ends in section 3
Typhon - dazed by Trinia’s daze monster
Corwin - none posted yet, jump in if you're available!
Tessa & Majenko - Tessa following from the street. Majenko caught up to Trinia in section 3.
Bandru - moves three sections to end to section 3
Bosch & Roscoe - Roscoe ends in section 2, Bosch in section 1. Bosch, wasn’t quite sure here if Roscoe made it to section 2 or is waiting for Bosch to catch up.
With a litany of expletives that would likely have offended the more religious individuals in the party if they listened too closely, Bosch finally got his feet under him and forced his way through the cluttered rooftop, passing Roscoe and landing heavily on a catwalk he spies a shortcut quickly and squeezes through, coming out further along then he thought he would.
Roscoe barks happily when his master pushed through the debris finally, thinking this to be one of the best games he has played yet and gives chase through the shortcut. The big dog runs headlong into a flock of pigeons, barely dodging through them. On the other side he turns and waits for Bosch, wagging his tail happily.
Ty shakes his head as he comes out of it.
What the hell was that? Hey wait how'd she get over there? perception:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
Full round action to move 2 sections. ending in section 4.
"Trinia. Wait! We aren't going to hurt you."He yells in frustration.
Chelaxian Male Professor of Thassilonian History 2 || hp 13/13 || AC 11(15), touch 11(15), flatfooted 10(14) || Perception +3, Sense Motive +3 || Fort +1, Ref +1, Will +7 || CMB +0, CMD 11 || Init +1 || Harrow 4
Seeing the woman flee across the rooftops, Corwin groans, grips his staff and runs up the stairs to give chase!
Rnd 1: full round, up the stairs!
By the time he reaches the top of the stairs, Corwin is already winded and red-faced.
"I am not cut out for all this running around!" he complains, to nobody in particular.
Reaching the roof he dashes across the cluttered expanse, ducking under clothes lines and running across a thin board connecting the top of two buildings.
The quarry vanishes and Corwin comes to a halt, puffing, looking around at the cluttered shacks, coops, cotes, lines, boxes and crates. But he doesn't see a way forward.
Suddenly he spots something that jogs his memory, a commonly used marking from the street that indicates a hidden alleyway past a pigeon coop. Corwin ducks behind the coop and continues forward.
only one check to move 2, just a full round action. 2 checks and a full round gets you 3. Also just a clarifying note, its both different checks in the section you start in, not from the 2 sections you leave. So to go from section 2 full round, moving 3 sections would take a perception and a knowledge check. 8D
Thanks Ty, you are correct. Full round to move 2, but need only one check. Full round to move 3, but you need to pass the ones on the card you started on.
The Chase: Round 5
Trinia looks frightened as she sees her pursuers catching up, but puts on a smile as she runs up to a group of beggars clustered around a tent built on top of a flat roof. ”Hey, get outta the way!” she says, tossing a few coins to them as she dodges around their grasping hands. One of the beggars blocks her way, slowing her down as she has to alter her route.
DC 10 Acrobatics:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27 DC 12 Diplomacy:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 Trinia is attempting to move 3 sections. Since she failed the diplomacy by 5 or less, she only moves 1 section, finishing in section 6.
Majenko flaps hard to keep up with Trinia, and manages to catch up to her. He timidly attempts to sting her, but misses.
Draconic:
"Sorry, sorry! I don't want to hurt you!"
DC 10 Acrobatics:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28Whoops, I didn't need to roll since Majenko is only moving 1 section, but it will mess up the rest of the rolls if I take it out... Majenko's sting attack:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15
Bandru and Roscoe only need to take a move action to catch up to Trinia, so they will also have a standard action remaining if they choose to just move one section.
