GM Catullus's page

It is early afternoon when Barcos, Kela, Rose and Marius set out towards Orvestikar Manor. On horseback, it takes a little over two hours to make the journey. Among the grassy plains surrounding Yanmass, the ruined building is visible from far away, although it has collapsed into little more than rubble. The walls are mounds of stones fifteen feet high, while former towers are nothing more than slightly taller ruins. The only portion of the manor that appears intact - and the only readily identifiable passageway to its interior - is a wide gate on its southern side.

There, in the middle of the overgrown path, stands a life-sized statue of a rearing elephant, complete with caparison and saddle.

Sekrit stuff: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (1) + 19 = 20

It is probably not wise to trust people you've just met with your life, but as the local saying goes, "any shelter in a sandstorm"... The baron hesitates, then nods. "If you trust them, then I do as well. Thank you." His emotional state seems improved as Reginald works his magic, and he nods wordlessly in thanks.

"well, I- I am very grateful for your help and t-the information that you brought. I look forward to your reports on all matters that concern Yanmass. I really must try to rest now, though." He pats Reginald's arm somewhat absentmindedly. "I may even manage some sleep."

The baron is having an understandable reaction to being told that anyone around him could be a monster and he wouldn't be able to tell. Kela can see the thoughts whirling through his head; a someone in a position of power, he is of course used to not trusting easily, but to be told that someone in his very household, perhaps even in his family, could be replaced by an evil shapeshifter fiend - that is something that requires a bit of adjustment. To put it lightly.

And in his already exhausted and unstable state, the poor baron is close to collapse.

The baron becomes very still as Rose mentions shapeshifting and disguising. His gaze flickers to the guards posted at the door, looking like a trapped animal. Fortunately, Marius doesn't detect any evil creatures nearby - not the guards, nor indeed the baron himself.

"Lady Talbot, a pleasure. I am very grateful for your support in this matter, and... it sounds like you have a lead already? I am impressed, although I confess that I know nothing of these pairakas. I wonder how they got into my city..."

Baron Kustios manages a weak, tremulous smile. "As a public figure and the ruler of the city, I have many enemies, I'm sure. I don't remember any strange figures in the dream." He shakes his head. "I'm sorry, I wish I could be more helpful. I'm afraid... wait. My daughter did notice a large black dog hanging around our house just before the nightmares started. She thought it was odd, because it had no collar and this is not exactly the area for stray dogs." He lifts a shoulder in a half-shrug. "It could be nothing."

Sorry for the absence!

"Hm. I hesitate to position myself so openly, politically speaking, but if you have difficulty getting somewhere or convincing someone you can mention that you have my favour." He chuckles weakly. "That might open a few doors for you." He trails off for a bit, his eyes unfocused, before he comes back to himself. "Forgive me. You said you had leads already, that is good. Please keep me informed of your progress, and thank you for your service." He rises with some effort, swaying on his feet for a moment. "Now... please excuse me. I wish you good fortune in your endeavours."

The high cleric nods, seemingly pleased with Marius's answer. "From my own observations, the council is more or less evenly split between Loyalists and Imperialists, but all members bow to the coin their trading houses bring. So whichever faction can do more for trade, security and prosperity will have their vote in the end." He lifts a hand to touch the gold symbol of Abadar hanging at his neck. "Some feel that the princess's cosmopolitan leanings would be most beneficial for our city, while others believe that the strong hand of the High Strategos is what is needed to secure our borders and protect our caravans."

From other conversations, the party gathers that Lady Carmellio Rauls is the most invested in finding the missing cavalry, both due to the impact on her contracts and for the lack of protection for her caravans. She reiterates the suggestion of talking to the wandering gnome priest Findleby, or investigating Orvestikar Manor directly. She also mentions hearing that an elderly Qadiran merchant named Ramaat al-Nassan witnessed two separate bandit attacks and may have relevant information. Marius already has this information from a successful Gather Info check.

As no more information seems forthcoming, the princess's agents take their leave, stopping by Baron Mauston Kustios's abode on their way. A letter of introduction written by Lady Rauls gains them admittance, and the majordomo invites them into a luxuriously furnished reception salon. They wait a rather long time for the baron to appear, and when he does he is looking a little worse for wear. His fine clothes, once impeccably tailored, hang a little loosely on his frame, as if he has recently lost weight, and a fine layer of powder attempts to disguise the dark circles under his bloodshot eyes.

"Ah, welcome to Yanmass, honoured guests. I must apologize for both the dreadful state of myself and the city, I am afraid that you have caught us at a bad time." He calls for refreshments to be served to the guests, although he himself touches no food. "How can I be of service to you?"

After a bit more discussion and back-and-forth, the meeting breaks up into smaller groups. Earl Yander Merkondus circulates among the councilors, seemingly trying to reassure them that his troubleshooters are actively working to solve the city's problems.

As things begin to wrap up, Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor approaches Marius discreetly. "Lord Erallan, I know that the other councilors are mostly focused on the issues with economic consequences - and they are very serious issues, indeed. However, I am troubled by this Cult of the Twilight Child. It is seemingly benign, but I am uncomfortable with the public perception that it's an offshoot of the Church of Abadar. I do not believe that to be the case, and I cannot help but wonder if it hides something more sinister. If you have the time, please come see me at the temple so we can discuss this in more detail."

You've gotten pretty much all the information you can from here at this point. Where to next? The options are to visit the ill baron nearby, investigate leads in the city, or travel outside the city.

I'm glad you asked! *infodump*

Constructed by a wealthy Taldan aristocrat who fell upon hard times in his dotage, Orvestikar Manor is situated at the edge of the Whistling Plains. The manor was sold, but the buyer was killed in a duel and the property fell into legal limbo. It was untended for years and, after a series of particular fierce winters, its roof and upper stories collapsed. The site now serves as a temporary camp for travelers or an occasional storehouse for smugglers.

"You make a good point," concedes Lord Autun. "It has not affected the Firewatch yet, as far as I know." Lady Carmellio Rauls speaks up. "I have a contract to supply the Taldan Horse, so you can imagine that my interest in this matter is high. They seem to have disappeared entirely, including their horses and their two war elephants. I have had reports that an itinerant gnome priest named Findleby claims to have seen several members of the company riding to an old ruined manor outside the city."

Lord Autun frowns. "That wouldn't be Orvestikar Manor, would be?" He turns to Marius, explaining. "That is about 9 miles north east of the city, but it has been abandoned for more than 200 years. It has an... ill reputation among the people here, and they tend to avoid the place."

1d20 + 16 ⇒ (8) + 16 = 24

Earl Yander Merkondus doesn't seem to notice Kela's stray gesture.

At the mention of Sir Dratavis, several council members appear distressed, while Earl Yander Merkondus removes his circlet as if paying respects to the dead.

"He had grown increasingly despondent, in the days before he vanished," mentions Lady Aumber Gewbell. "Perhaps he had been afflicted with the strange dreams."

"Or, perhaps," interjects Earl Merkondus, "he realized that the woman he serves is nothing but a fraud tearing the nation apart and fled out into the plains in shame."

Lady Gewbell fixes him with a cold stare before continuing as if he had not spoken. "It is these dreams that worry me the most, Lord Erallan. There have been several suicides already, and reports of bands of haunted-eyed townspeople wandering the city in a stupor." She pauses, hesitates, then forges on. "There are also rumours of a local conspiracy theorist, a woman named Caradinna Farkin." She raises a hand to forestall several of her colleagues, who have begin to scoff and shake their heads. "I know, I know, her proclamations about the 'secret masters' are infamous. But recently she has become increasingly insistent and strident, even accosting a few of the members of this council in the streets. And she hasn't been seen at all in the last two days, so I cannot help but wonder if she perhaps stumbled upon a genuine clue."

Lord Autun makes an ambivalent hand gesture. "As you wish, if you can find some of them. What I find very interesting, however, is that your faction seems to exhibit a certain... weakness. In these troubled times we need a strong hand to deal with all these issues." The head incline towards Earl Yander Merkondus is unmissable. "Loyalists seem to have suffered more in recent events. Although he hasn't expressed it, it is my opinion that Baron Kustios is leaning towards support of the princess, our esteemed colleague who is missing was an outspoken Loyalist, and even the Qadiran bandits have been targeting merchants with Loyalist leanings the most."

He fiddles with one of the many rings adorning his hands. "And if you want my observations, the troubles in our city started shortly after that new restaurant opened, Savories. We are a very tolerant city, but I doubt anything good can come from letting a Galtan have such sway among our nobility, don't you think?" Lady Hallianna Cobbin shakes her head. "Have you actually been there, Lord Autun? The food is incredible."

With Gregor Hamble

"She would not share detail, my lord. She seemed... ashamed to talk about it. As for Mr. Rhundle Navin who is absent today, who knows? He is a banker in the city with his father."

In the audience chamber

Earl Merkondus returns Marius's smile, rising slightly out of his seat for a shallow bow. The movement is laboured, and his silver-capped cane is leaning against his chair.

The man wearing the ostentatious jewelry nods at each introduction, then gestures for the group to be seated. "Welcome to Yanmass. I am Lord Rudig Autun, the city's largest spice importer." he gestures to each of the principal counselors in turn, starting with the half-elf woman to his right. "This is Lady Aumber Gewbell, a clothing importer and exporter" He follows by indicating the narrow-faced human woman to his left. "Lady Carmellio Rauls, who deals primarily in armor, weapons and equestrian gear." A gesture to the human man wearing the Abadarian symbols. "Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor, the high priest of the church of Abadar in Yanmass." He nods towards the halfling woman. "And Lady Hallianna Cobbin."

Lord Rudig Autun stands, gesturing to the empty seat at the head of the table. "Given Baron Kustios's continued absence, I’d like to call this meeting to order in his stead. We know that much of Taldor is currently in political turmoil, but we have pressing problems close to home. Yanmass suffers under the grip of several troubles, and our discussion today must confront these. First, terrible, unsavory dreams haunt many of our citizens; some of us here have had them, I understand, and their cumulative effect is crippling to morale and our economy. Second, the Taldan Horse cavalry regiment that protected our city has, in large part, vanished. This leads to the third issue, which is the rise of banditry on the eastern plains: Qadiran bandits, specifically, preying upon good Taldan trade."

"All trade, to be frank," interjects Lady Carmellio Rauls, "Keleshite and Taldan alike." The Chief Enumerator speaks up, There's another thing, although it's not a clear threat: the Cult of the Twilight Child in the Encircling Bower. Good citizens are joining this mystery cult. Perhaps it's as benign as rumors say, but we can't ignore a new philosophy that is ensnaring so many of our citizens."

"Religion ever reigns in your mind, Enumerator," says the half-elf woman, Lady Aumber Gewbell, "but people aren't suffering from the cult as they are the other troubles." The halfling woman, Lady Hallianna Cobbin, sits up straighter and adds, "Our esteemed guest, Earl Yander Merkondus, assures us that he has a group of troubleshooters already acting to alleviate all of these concerns. But so long as Yanmass suffers, so does trade - and therefore so do we." Earl Merkondus responds with a seated bow in her direction, which she receives with a warm smile.

Turning towards Martella's agents, Lord Rudig Autun continues. "We will open the floor for discussion and proposals shortly, but if there is anything that you would like to say before that please speak."

The other PCs can make their introductions retroactively if they wish. Up to Lotti if she wants to be present or not. Once the large group breaks up, you can target individual councilors with Diplomacy checks (Marius and Barcos can keep the ones they made earlier) to find out more about their position on specific concerns.

"Oh goodness, no, I haven't had any of those dreams! But my niece..." The halfling sighs, some of his jovial and affable air diminished. "The poor girl won't eat nor sleep, she's wasting away." He nods sagely. "It very well may be that Baron Kustios is so afflicted, but the doctors and priests who have seen to him so far could help but little. If there is something you can do, I'm sure he will be very grateful." He raises a finger in a silent 'but'. "Of course, it is for the council to decide if you should be allowed to see the baron. Right this way, if you please."

After a few more turns through marble and gilt corridors, Gregor Hamble ushers everyone through an ornately carved double door, helpfully opened by two liveried guards. The audience chamber of Yanmass's Commerce Hall is vast and opulent, the cavernous space lit by both sunlight streaming through high, stained glass windows and by several crystal-and-silver chandeliers. An immense oval table takes up much of the room's space. A throne-like chair at the head of the table is vacant, but most of the other seats are occupied. Sitting in ornate, padded chairs are the five principals: a human man wearing ostentatious jewellery, a half-elven woman in well-tailored clothing, a handsome human man wearing the regalia of a high priest of Abadar, a proud halfling woman, and a narrow-faced, worried-looking human woman. About a dozen other well-dressed people occupy less ostentatious chairs - these must be the associates. Notably, one of their seats is empty as well. At the foot of the table is a group of plain, sturdy wooden chairs, one of which is occupied by a fashionable, broadly smiling aristocrat whom Marius recognizes as Earl Yander Merkondus. Several guards stand discreetly around the perimeter of the room, alert for trouble.

The entrance of the group seems to interrupt their small talk, and everyone turns to regard them politely. Several associates motion as if to rise, but sit down again when they notice that the principals remain seated.

Please introduce your characters however you see fit.

"Well, people always like to talk of trouble, although personally I am a mite worried about these nightmares." Gregor leans in conspiratorially, whispering "If you ask me, that's why the baron's been ill."

He changes the topic abruptly, pointing out a gallery of portraits they are just passing. "And here are our esteemed principal council members!" He seems particularly proud of a female halfling depicted holding a basket full of fruit. "There are five principals on the council, as you must know, and fourteen associates. One of the associates is absent today, though." He wrinkles his nose in concern.

Normally, official city business is private, but Martella's agents have been granted special admission to the Mercantile Council's meetings. These meetings happen monthly in Commerce Hall, which shares the top of the city's lower hill with Yan Manor, the seat of the Yanmass barony.

The liveried soldiers at the entrance to the ostentatious building inform the group that Baron Kustios is ill and will not be attending today's meeting, and that the Mercantile Council is hosting another guest, Earl Yander Merkondus. One of the guards asks them to wait while he fetches a liveried halfling official to escort them to the audience chamber.

"And a very good day to you, madams and sirs! you must have travelled from quite far away. I am Gregor, Gregor Hamble, at your service. Please, right this way, and you must tell me how you find our city so far! Isn't it just splendid?"

Resembling an opulent manor house rather than a city administration building, Commerce Hall has elaborate stained-glass windows, enormous chandeliers and gold accoutrements throughout.

You can ask Gregor Hamble questions if you wish.

Barcos learns a little more about Yanmass's largest public park, called Hedge Hill by the locals although it lacks an official name. A remnant of the primeval forests that once stretched here, rumours hold that ha dryad flits through the trees at the center of the park, but only the very young or very inebriated claim to see her. The forest there is certainly thick and wild, more than typically found in the center of a city, surrounded by meadows of cut grass and carefully arranged flowers.

More info if you actually visit the location.

As the unobtrusive Kela, Faenia uncovers quite a lot about the plague of nightmares that seems to affect so many people in the city. First, details of the dreams themselves, which seem to feature the dreamer being shamelessly propositioned by someone they know and love - a spouse, a sibling, or a close friend. In the dream, the two kiss and caress, but soon the dreamer is overcome with irresistible hunger and begins to take enormous bites from the flesh of their would-be lover. Victims awaken fatigued and shaken, and some have even been driven to suicide after experiencing these nightmares more than once.

What really catches Kela's attention, however, are the particulars of the victims. Most, but not all, of those affected have publicly expressed Loyalst sympathies or are otherwise associated with those who support Eutropia's claims.

Another very relevant piece of information is that the setting of the dream is similar for a number of dreamers: a meat locker hung with carcasses and lit with four high, round windows.

Moving the main thread along, you can continue to RP in parallel.

Wealday, 21 Sarenith

After finding accommodations at a decent inn with clean rooms and not too expensive, the group sets to explore the city a little while keeping an ear out for any useful information.

With the Mercantile Council meeting tomorrow morning time is rather short, but still enough to try and dig deeper into one of these rumours.

Pick one of the rumours (assuming at least one of you rolled high enough on Gather Info to get all three) and roll another Diplomacy check to get more information.

Feel free to continue any further RP or discussion (with tags), just moving us along in the story for the moment.

Oathday, 8 Sarenith 4718 AR

Despite the early hour, the sun is up and the weather already warm, threatening to become hot later in the day. The two carriages stand ready in front of the Palace of Birdsong, together with a half-dozen riding horses for guards, retainers, extra luggage or simply for those who preferred to not be inside a carriage on a hot day for hours on end.

Both Martella and Eutropia are there to see everyone off, wearing light summer trousers and blouses. Outside official meetings, the princess seems to favour more practical attire, and has been using the observatory area in the palace to practice her rapier skills.

"Safe travels, my friends. Praying for your success in Yanmass. Send news to Martella when you can." Eutropia waves goodbye before going back inside. "Yes, please do. And try to make it to the council meeting."

Insert any RP or vignettes you'd like during the trip.

The journey itself is uneventful. On the third day, the World's Edge Mountains begin to rise in the distance, and the road cuts through low hills in places as it veers northeast, parallel to the rows of rocky peaks. Krearis is the most populous non-coastal Taldan prefecture, and its people are as rugged as its landscape. Grand Duke Borand Heskillar does what he can to maintain the peace among the many disputes and the frequent infighting of his earls and barons, but he faces an uphill battle against feuds dating back centuries. Additionally, even before the Senate Massacre her had offered little support or concern, and he is especially unpopular in noble circles for having married a dwarven woman, Lady Grella of Taggoret.

On the tenth day they leave Krearis behind as they cross the Falling River into the Avin prefecture, Taldor's largest. The landscape opens up, with the mountains to the right diminishing into hills, then plains. The road runs close to the Verduran Fork river, which issues from the Fog Peaks to the north.

The sun is inching towards the horizon on the fourteenth day when Yanmass finally comes into view, a bustling city situated on a pair of low hills alongside the wide Verduran Fork. However, visitors first notice the sea of tents surrounding its weathered stone walls, which sprawls larger than the city within the walls.

"What is the Crown Princess' next priority now that she has secured her base of operations?"

"We will strengthen our efforts to find allies among the nobility and others. A political base needs to be secured before we can move against Pythareus," responds Martella. "I hope your efforts in Yanmass will be successful as well, the trade income and the communication channel with Qadira will be invaluable."

Once the last details are cleared, Martella takes her leave and returns to overseeing the renovation works on the palace.

In the morning, two carriages are ready to take everyone on the 16-day journey to Yanmass. Barring delays, they should arrive in the city the day before the council's monthly meeting.

Last chance to do things in Meratt/Stachys/the Palace of Birdsong.

Martella looks skeptical at the mention of the prince. "Hm. Dratavis would be my choice. We would at least know if he's alive or dead... can you even tell that with divination?"

Martella raises an eyebrow at Faenia. "You are the agents that I am deploying in Yanmass. But I recognize the value of going in with as much information as you can, so if this divination ritual would not delay you too much then by all mean, go for it."

Who do you want to make the target of your scrying?

Martella huffs and smiles. "Good thought. It should have occurred to me, but I suppose I'm biased towards mundane solutions. You might find a suitable mirror in the observatory."

"Reginald Weatherby Esquire, can be done," answers Martella to Barcos's request.

"We know very little about the cult, except that its members seem friendly and it is popular with many locals. Meir claims the so-called Twilight Child at the center of it has been healing the sick and injured with a touch, but he would hardly be the first self-proclaimed god I've seen claim the same." Martella nods at Faenia. "And you are correct. Maxillar Pythareus's Imperialists claim that the vote against male primogeniture either never happened, or else is invalid given the violent circumstances - meaning that Eutropia, as a woman, cannot claim the throne. But by their arguments, Carrius would be a more legitimate heir than Pythareus, who was only adopted. If anything, this complicates both Eutropia's and Pythareus's claims. So no, I do not think that he is behind it - but I'm dying to know who is." She winces at her own bad joke. "Sorry."

Martella inclines her head to Faenia. "I understand. I just ask that you are as gentle as you can be when you mention it to her." At Barcos's question, she replies "Sir Dratavis is not a spy, just a Loyalist and a friend of Eutropia. I offered to send a specialist with him to protect him, but he insisted that Pythareus and the earl were honorable men who would let the strongest argument succeed.' She frowns. "It is not unthinkable that some strong argument has turned him from our cause, and should that happen he is of course free to change his allegiance. Please do not hold that against him."

Martella sighs. "No, I am not sure. I want to shield her, I suppose. If the claims are not true, the last thing she needs is to relive the loss of her brother. If they are true, well... let's cross that bridge when we get to it."

Martella gestures with an open hand at Marius while looking at Faenia. "Quite so. The Merkondus family operates in sea trade. They're landed in Moda prefecture, but Yander works heavily in Oppara. I've had the dubious pleasure of working with him in the past, and he is charming, insightful, and ruthlessly efficient. He's the sort of man you watch very carefully, only to be struck down by a carriage you never saw coming." She lifts one shoulder in a half-shrug. "I do not doubt he has his price, but I doubt that we can afford to pay it at this time - now do I think it particularly wise to employ such a self-interested agent. He may well be responsible for the disappearance of our agent, but like Lord Erallan points out it will be difficult to discover if so, and even more difficult to prove."

She nods to Marius. "We have received no envoy from the Qadirans, but they are undoubtedly watching. A Pythareus victory would most likely mean war for them, so I can venture a guess as to where their preferences lie. Communication with them is difficult at the moment, as Pythareus controls the southern regions of Taldor, but perhaps there is an opportunity for contact in Yanmass."

Martella sets down her tea cup, turning to look out the window. "There is... one other matter. If you were wondering why Eutropia is not present at this briefing - well, this is why." She turns around to watch everyone before continuing. "The cult that Sir Dratavis mentioned, the Cult of the Twilight Child... they claim to worship a resurrected Prince Carrius. Attempts to resurrect Eutropia's younger brother shortly after his death failed, and while it is possible for a powerful spellcaster to raise the dead after so long, it still strikes me as suspicious that a potential claimant to the throne has just happened to appear - especially in light of what you have discovered of Panivar's experiments here. Eutropia hasn't yet heard these rumors, and I'd like them investigated quickly and quietly."

Bartelby's combat loot:

potion of cure moderate wounds (2), wand of corrosive touch (12 charges), wand of scorching ray (23 charges), +2 glamered breastplate, mwk light crossbow, mwk sword cane, belt of incredible dexterity +2, circlet of persuasion, keys to the palace and royal tower.

He gets to keep the Lotheed signet ring and his spellbook and component pouch.

Welcome to Book 3!

Thank you everyone for sticking with me so far. This book is less sandbox-y, so hopefully we will go through it a bit quicker.

With the start of a new book, I want to put the question to the group about what to do with the persona system. For those newly joined, it is a subsystem where PCs develop certain facets of their public-facing personalities and retain agents to send on missions. There is more information in the campaign info tab, and the full rules are here.

We've been using a trimmed-down version of it where we keep some of the agents (because it's fun to create a bunch of NPCs, or to give more presence to existing NPCs), but exactly what is being rolled to determine their mission's success is a bit fuzzy.

So I'd like to reopen the discussion (in Discord) on what do you want out of this subsystem:
Option 1: do away with it entirely. Might keep some of the agent NPCs around for flavour, as messengers or errand runners.
Option 2: figure out a slim version of the system.
Option 3: keep the full system.

Let me know your thoughts.

Eutropia nods at Lotti. "As you wish." She doesn't flinch from the arcanist's vivid imagery - if anything, her features seems to firm in resolve.

================================

Over the next few days, Martella and Eutropia spend a lot of time going over the archives, papers and accounts of both the palace and the Lotheed family. Martella is visibly concerned by the documents discovered in the secret compartment inside the office, and seems regretful that she didn't manage to meet the ghost of her uncle.

Envoys, nobles and artisans begin visiting the Palace of Birdsong, the former to have meetings with Eutropia, the latter to begin work on making the palace a more suitable place as the princess's residence and base of operations. Every now and then, messengers arrive as well, from Oppara and elsewhere, and afterwards the two women cloister themselves in the office for hours.

It is after the arrival of one such messenger that Martella gathers everyone in the parlour again, a crease of concern drawing a line between her brows. A platter of honey cakes and a steaming teapot are waiting one one of the side tables, together with cups for everyone, a dish of water for Baron Barksley and a saucer of cream for Wobblekins.

Martella gestures for everyone to take a seat and partake of the refreshments, although she herself remains standing and pacing in front of the floor to ceiling windows facing the driveway and the gardens. "I hope you have all enjoyed a well-deserved rest. I would offer you more than tea and cakes, but I have been giving the serving staff a lot of days off in light of recent events, and we've been a bit short-handed." She turns on one heel to face everyone, her heavy skirt flaring with the movement. "Let me ask you: how much do you know about Yanmass? If it isn't much, I have a few books you can read on your way, because that is your next destination. The city has been neutral up until now, but commands considerable wealth and access to exclusive trade goods, as it is the first stop in Taldor for Keleshite merchant caravans. Its support would be invaluable, and the princess and Pythareus have both sent delegations to win an alliance with the Mercantile Council that runs the city." The crease of concern deepens. "We have just got word that our agent, Sir Meir Dratavis, has gone missing. His last correspondence mentioned troubling recent events." She begins to tick items off one by one on her fingers. "Bandit raids. Cult activity. Missing soldiers. He was working alongside Pythareus's representative, Earl Yander Merkondus, to resolve the problems, but I haven't heard anything since and I suspect foul play. Your mission is to find our agent, or else to continue his work of convincing Yanmass to formally back Eutropia." She stops speaking, reaching for a cup of tea as she awaits questions.

Princess Eutropia places a hand lightly on the hilt of her rapier, a reminder of her reputation as a skilled duelist. "I am not afraid of a little prick, and I recognize the power that blood carries - and not just for the Ulfen."

She thinks for a moment on Faenia's question. "If we would position his forces in the Fog Peaks to the east, close to Yanmas - there might be an opportunity there soon."

Knowledge religion: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25

It only takes a glance for the princess to glean the meaning of the tattoo, and she nods. "Faenia, thank you for the trust that you place in me, and for your devotion. I swear to strive to be worthy of that devotion always. I trust that you will tell me, should I stray." Her language and tone take a more formal and solemn quality. "And I shall be very mindful of that line."

Eutropia watches Faenia carefully while she speaks. "I notice that you said 'would', not 'will'. Very well. I am honoured by his trust. Your training sounds impressive, I would be honoured to have you defend and advise me. The Taldor I envision should be a home for all, not just Taldans. Gods know we have made ourselves at home in plenty of places where we didn't belong." She gives a little quirk of her lips. "The second condition is also acceptable, although I would not wish to lose his perspective. Perhaps he can suggest a suitable replacement."

When Faenia hands her the paper, the princess raises an eyebrow in surprise, but takes it, unfolds it and reads it. She pauses to glance at Faenia as she reads, then returns her gaze to the paper. She reads it once more, then hands it back, steepling her hands on the desk. "This... will be more difficult. It will take time, if it happens at all, but I promise that I will at least try. Would that satisfy you and your father?"

Princess Eutropia watches Barcos and Faenia for a moment, then sets down her teacup, sitting up straighter. "I believe that we are on the same page. Most people look at the glory days of Taldor as the time when we ruled over half of continent - but that is Pythareus's ambition, not mine. For me, a glorious nation is one where everyone prospers and is safe, one that undertakes great works of infrastructure, not military conquest. Taldor is decaying because of greed; we depleted our own resources through reckless exploitation, and the greed of the nobles and Grand Princes has led to greater inequality and neglect." She spreads her hands. "I cannot fix greed. But I can try to make the system fairer. A start would be to have tradespeople, labourers and farmers on the Senate."

Martella's eyes widen at that, and she snorts. "Oh, that will send the traditionalists into an apoplectic fit." Eutropia smiles slightly. "It will be difficult to achieve, yes. but I believe not impossible. Besides, the best time to implement sweeping reforms is when a new ruler takes power." She returns her attention to Barcos. "It heartens me that you ask this, Barcos. I have read many times that those who have little are often the most generous, and now I see an example of that. It gives me hope that there are still people like you, who work to improve others' lot and ask little or nothing for themselves." She nods at Rose, Lotti, Faenia and Marius, including them in that assessment.

"What you have all achieved in Stachys and the Meratt county may seem miraculous at first glance, but I believe it is what happens when clever and kind people apply themselves in finding solutions to problems, even if those problems do not concern them personally. It gives me strength to continue our fight, because I know it is the right thing to do for the people of Taldor, and I believe we can win." She takes a deep breath, looking everyone in the eye in turn. "Thank you."

Releasing her breath, she smooths her skirts and stands, looking at Faenia. "Now, I believe you and I have matters to discuss. Let us retire to the office." She nods to the rest of the group. "I wish you all a pleasant rest of the evening, and we will speak again tomorrow."

The office

Princess Eutropia enters the office, holding the door for Faenia and then closing it behind her. She moves to sit behind the desk, briefly stopping to glance at the Lotheed family portrait and shake her head, then gestures for Faenia to sit down.

Relics of Old Taldor:

With Book 2 being wrapped up, the party has achieved another triumph and your relics gain new abilities.

Dignity's Barb is now a +1 darkwood seeking light crossbow. Once per day when the weapon threatens a critical hit, the wielder can roll twice to confirm and take the better result.

Envoy Ring increases its competence bonus on Diplomacy, Linguistics and Perform checks to +3. When the wearer activates the ring's once-per-day disguise self ability, not only does the appearance of their clothing match the dominant culture around them (typically that of the local nobility or ruling class), but they can also read, speak and understand the most common language in the area that they don't already know, for as long as the duration persists. In addition, once per day the wearer can be activated to use charm person (DC 17) and comprehend languages.

Koriana's Blade 1d4 ⇒ 4 The green gem on the pommel repairs itself. Once per day the wielder can activate one of the intact gems on the pommel as an immediate action. White gem absorbs and negates all darts targeting the wielder from a magic missile spell. Green makes the wielder immune to a single poison effect, but it must be activated before attempting any save against the effect. In addition to being a +2 defending weapon, when the wielder transfers at least 1 point of the weapon's enhancement bonus to their AC using the defending special ability, they also chooses one creature other than themselves within 10 feet to gain a +1 bonus to AC until the wielder's next turn. This bonus is always +1, regardless of how much of the weapon's bonus the wielder transfers to their AC.

The Subtle Mask grants the wearer a +2 enhancement bonus to Charisma. The wearer can mentally activate the mask as a swift action while conversing with someone or observing a conversation to use detect thoughts (DC 18) on a single participant in the conversation. This requires spending the normal number of rounds to detect surface thoughts and can be used for a total of 9 rounds per day. When the wearer mentally activates the mask, they also detect magical effects as if using arcane sight and concentrating on the creature.

Dinner is a cozy affair in the library rather than in one of the larger entertaining spaces, and the princess has to be all but dragged to her seat by Martella as she gets lost in gazing at the antiques on display and reminiscing.

Eutropia looks more tired than when they had last seen her, if such a thing were possible. She looks like she lost some weight as well, but someone has adjusted her gowns with an expert hand so they still fit her perfectly. The meal itself passes in pleasant chit-chat and conversation, Martella bringing the last of the social gossip from Oppara and carefully steering away from more serious topics. The food is all the princess's favourite dishes from her childhood - wild mushrooms in a creamy white sauce, a chicken meatball soup thick with vegetables cut very small, a sweet and sour stew of lamb and quince, flaky pie with sweet cottage cheese filling, and for dessert bowls of rice boiled in sweetened milk and flavoured with cinnamon, cloves and vanilla.

After dinner, they retreat to the parlour with cups of tea or glasses of wine or spirits. Princess Eutropia carries an embossed leather folder stuffed with papers that she sets down on a side table. Martella also brings a few packages wrapped in thick paper that seem to contain fabric, placing one each in everyone's lap save herself and Eutropia.

"I am very grateful to you all, for everything that you have done. Having spoken to Count Lotheed, I have hopes that I can bring him over to our side, in time. He remains a self-interested man and there are things he must answer for still, so it will be a challenging journey. For now, though," the princess withdraws a few papers from her folder, "here are legal papers granting you ownership of the former Betony estate, to use as you please. We wrote them as a joint ownership with all of your names listed, although of course you can sell your share or bequeath it - whatever you like."

She hands out the papers, folding her hands in her lap. "For the matter of more material rewards, you are free to claim any items from this palace, save for the antiques in the library and the spellbooks in the arcane laboratory on this floor. Anything that you do not claim, Martella and I will likely sell and keep part of the proceeds to fund your future missions." She hesitates, looking at everyone in turn. "That is, if you are still willing to help me."

Loot: Martella gifts everyone with a cloak of protection +2.

@Marius: Martella and Eutropia did not arrive with bodyguards, save forthe carriage driver whom you remember to be also Martella' bodyguard and assistant.

Martella smiles at Barcos's comment. "The docks on a summer day? No, thank you."

She nods to Faenia. "Of course, the princess will meet with you as soon as she has rested a bit. Perhaps tonight after supper? And I actually appreciate your forwardness, saves us both a lot of time."

To Marius, she replies. "We haven't seen much of the county on our way in, but I understand that you have brought about marked improvements. I am looking forward to see them with my own eyes, but work first." She exhales, not quite a sigh, drumming her fingers on the desktop. "I... haven't told the princess everything about what you have discovered here. She still mourns her brother. I will monitor Duke Lotheed very closely though, and update you on developments. As for his other... creation, I have some ideas there. Don't worry, I'll take care of it."

She reaches out a hand to scratch Wobblekins between the ears. "I am very grateful that you have solved the issues here without bloodshed for the most part. And that Night Swan girl is an interesting character, I am glad you were able to capture her. The county should be able to breathe a little easier now, and I share your hope, Lord Erallan, of seeing this replicated across Taldor." She glances out the window again, where Eutropia is returning from her garden walk accompanied by Martella's bodyguard and two of the palace guards.

"Well, we have a lot of work to do, so I'll let you all go. Thank you again, and I believe Eutropia wants to thank you in person as well." She pauses for any last questions before sitting down at the desk and starting to sort through the papers, letters and ledgers stacked there for her attention.

Martella shifts her gaze to Faenia, standing at the back near the door. "Ah, and I see that you have found new allies. Mmm... Landgrave Jarlbjorn's daughter if I'm not mistaken? I have had some correspondence with your father. I am glad to see you here. What are your thoughts of our little endeavour so far?"

Palace of Birdsong; Satrday, 3 Sarenith 4718

In the week and a half that follow the successful takeover of the Palace of Birdsong, most of the time goes into taking inventory of everything in the palace and meeting with the local nobles to update them of the situation. Bartelby and Gul have given their word not to try to run away or do mischief, but even so they are watched around the clock by Konstiantina, Lisa (who seems to take great pleasure in having Bartelby in her power), or whoever else is free.

There are some concerns from the Archbanker of Abadar, Lady Paril, regarding the legality of the events and also the future of funding for the town of Lotheedar, but she is mollified with promises that the princess or her representative will be here soon to clear up matters.

On the afternoon of the ninth day since the party infiltrated and gained control of the Palace of Birdsong, a carriage draws up in the driveway, the Stavian coat of arms painted on its doors. Martella emerges first, holding out her hand to help Eutropia step down, after which she puts her fists in the small of her back and stretches out the kinks from the long travel. Princess Eutropia stands still for a moment, taking in the gardens and the building, no doubt familiar sights from childhood summers spent here.

The two then procced inside, greeted by the servants and house guards who bow deeply. Martella beelines towards the office - formerly Bartelby's - while sending staff to gather all her agents to meet her there. As they enter, they find her standing next to the wall, fists on hips and nose almost touching the family portrait.

"Hmph. Whoever covered me up did a poor job of it. No hunting dog is that large, perspective tricks or no." She turns around, watches everyone for a long moment, then bows deeply from the waist. As she straightens, she claps her hands, a grin spreading across her features. "Well! I almost couldn't believe it when I read your report. You got my half-brother to stand down peacefully, what an achievement! I almost said I could not have handled this better myself, but the truth is that I probably would have handled it worse, given the... personal connections." She moves to the desk, glancing behind her through the tall windows. "The princess is taking a walk through the gardens, but she will join us shortly. Until then, tell me all the juicy details. And," she adds belatedly, "how are you all doing? Is pastoral life to your liking?"

Bartelby swirls the drink in his glass, nodding. "Your father sounds like an admirable man." He downs the glass in one motion and sets it down. "I have much to think about, it seems. Thank you for giving me a different perspective."

As the topic turns to Martella, he rubs his forehead. "I used to feel that her very existence was an insult to my mother, but now I see that she had no choice in being born. No, the blame lies entirely with my father, and I have wronged my half-sister by how I have been treating her. But at least I have a chance to make amends. I'm sorry for your loss."

The rest of the night passes in thoughtful conversation as Bartelby opens up more, sharing childhood memories from the Palace of Birdsong. His view of the future is a mix of wariness and hope, and he seems almost energized at the idea of a challenge like helping to bring prosperity to Taldor again. While the social causes that Eutropia cares about do not interest him, the comparison with Andoran seems to hit a sore spot - he would see that righted, if only out of competitiveness.

Bartelby takes a sip of his brandy and tilts his head, staring at a spot on the polished floor. "Did they care about me... I suppose they did, in their own way. My mother was rather concerned with appearances, so she pretended that my father's affair never happened, despite the... evidence." He clears his throat. "My father was a gifted administrator. He did a lot of what you have been doing - fixing the county's problems, improving the infrastructure - while also keeping up his own arcane studies and an active political life. So the expectations for my administrative career were indeed very high, and as for my arcane accomplishments... well, you have seen some of what my uncle has managed to achieve. While that particular field of study doesn't interest me particularly much, you have to admit that his is a rather fantastic level of mastery."

As Barcos joins the conversation, the count snorts. "I suppose I should count my blessings. At least I have led a very comfortable life and never suffered need like you must have. The flesh is sated, but the spirit can still yearn, and in finding no relief, wither." He shakes his head ruefully. "Listen to me, I am become poetic. Enough wallowing in self-pity. I gave up before really trying, I realize that now."

Velvet's expertise gets the safe open on the first attempt as the ghost hovers anxiously over her shoulder. Once the lock clicks open, the spectral manifestation dissipates with a sigh.

Inside the safe are a variety of birth certificates, newspapers, royal announcements and travel documents dating back 300 years. It seems that the name Panivar is very popular in the Lotheed family, as all these documents concern men named Panivar Lotheed I, Panivar Lotheed II and so on until Panivar Lotheed VI.

Additionally, there are a few valuables in a locked desk drawer.

Loot: 127 gp, circlet of persuasion, wand of lesser restoration (12 charges).

With mimed guidance from the ghost, Marius is able to find the compartment hidden under the floorboards. Within there is indeed a safe.

Disable Device checks to open it get a +10 bonus.

To Marius it is rather clear that this is a ghost, likely the ghost of Bartelby's father by its distorted features. As the apparition notices the attention, it resumes its gesturing but seems unable to communicate verbally beyond the repeated moaning.

Checks to spot what it is gesturing at have a +10 bonus.

Bartelby sighs, rubbing his forehead with one hand. "Ah... yes, I am aware. I think that is a matter best left to my uncle, since he was the one who... well." He raises his head, gazing out the windows into the gardens. "At times, one forgets that she- it is not a real person. It is certainly more than a construct of magic. I'm not entirely sure what Panivar has done to infuse so much of the real Veleto in her- in it. As I said, a prodigy in the arcane arts, my uncle."