Have any of the advisers in the room displayed signs of trustworthiness toward Gentoa specifically over the last ten months?
(Not especially. There was MUCH discussion about the precedent and the political fallout for it but Gentoa has largely been kept out of political meetings. She has met a number of nobility, even a few her own age, but the meetings have been introductory at best.)
Dog rumbles back to the general, "we were supposed to play chess tomorrow, and I thought he might finally let me win. Gentoa is beside herself. Harvell stopped by like a hummingbird to a flower, to give condolences to Neventi and Gentoa. Told him I was impressed he was still standing with all the grief. He gave the princess a flower."Dog gives him an unimpressed look, and waits for a response.
Polititus sighs. "Harvell is harmless. He is a lech, to be certain, but his political aspirations are zero. His grandfather, Harvell the first, convinced him to lead a life of luxury. Bought him off, basically, so that Haddian could be king. It was a wise choice but Harvell clearly adopted his role with gusto."
He speaks up so the admiral can hear. "Speaking of which, she's still a princess, and not a queen until the vote, or until the coronation? Also I'm not sure if and when we pay our respects to Haddian. He mentioned which cask[et] he wanted everyone to enjoy should he pass on, but he didn't say anything about his remains. Be gentle, this is my first regnal transfer of power, and I don't know the protocols."
(Hopefully they aren't going to age Haddian in a cask! "Would you like a glass of Haddian?")
Polititus fields the question. "King Haddian will be displayed at the Temple of Mystra, since that was his favored god, for a full ten-day beginning at dawn tomorrow. The people will be able to pay their respects to Haddian directly there. On the tenth day he will be interred after a lengthy ceremony at the royal cemetery. Emissary Tock has been compiling a list of those invited to speak, including Duliani, myself, Dux Peritus, Prince Harvell, and Ommulyn Huis, one of Haddian's oldest friends from the Mage Academy.
"The Lords' Senate is gathering now to decide whether or not the coronation must happen now or if it should wait. Spymaster Merro, pardon the interruption, but what is your intelligence say on the outcome of the vote in the Senate?"
The spymaster halts his conversation with Silverbraid to answer. "Oh, I suspect it will be a near unanimous vote to hold the coronation in two ten-days. The primary argument is that Queen Duliani will be regent no matter when the coronation occurs. They want to give the people a chance to grieve before they are handed a new monarch. A two year-old at that. The general feeling is that there is no urgency in this particular situation."
Polititus nods, turning back to Dog. "The coronation will be lavish. It will begin at the Temple of Milil, for that is the princess' father, and proceed as a royal parade to the gates of the palace and the throne room. It is there that young Gentoa shall be crowned and we will have a new queen."
Some of this Dog knew but Polititus is always thorough in his responses, no matter the audience.
Tock arrives in the square in front of the palace with a visual 'pop!' that startles a number of tourists and merchants. The guards allow him passage into the palace. Queen Duliani he know is in Delphendria for another 9 days. but he knows she will be returning today. (Even if Dog has not already told him Tock has deduced that Haddian has died.)
The kenku is able to confirm for himself with the butler of the palace before making his way to his office adjacent to one of the parlors. It is nice to be very close to the front door. It will be something of a hike to get to the guest quarters where Neventi and Gentoa are likely at, though.
His surly second in command is already waiting outside his office. Etas Murlat is a mage of some talent but terrible with people, including Tock. He sees the determination on Tock's face and the haste in his step. "You've heard, then," he says. Tock at least appreciates his frankness. "Well, get ready for a lot of requests to meet. The funeral and the coronation are going to be practically a bidding war for the best seats. It's going to be a nightmare."
His other two underlings are already waiting in his office for him. Vas is a young changeling who Tock has begun to groom for diplomatic work with the clergy. She has something of an interest in religious work, which is one reason he chose her. Javni Heatherbrow is a halfling currently embedded in Lady Reistroff's staff. She has proven herself to be a remarkable and loyal spy against the King's enemies.
"Hello, sir," Vas says with all the formality of an eager and naive young employee. "It sounds like things are going to get pretty crazy. How can we help?"
"Everyone is up to speed? Good."
Tock closes the door and does his usual routine where he takes out his Gem of Seeing, activates it and surveys the whole room before continuing. He is well aware of what it looks like if someone would be looking in on them with magic.
"The seating for the funeral and the coronation has already been decided. For both events we seat everyone by the order of the physical proximity of their estate the Alciondria - the closer it is the closer they get to be. For the coronation it is going to be in the exact opposite way. This way people from far away are going to be able to make it for the second event, hopefully."
He looks at Etas, "This will be your job to organize. The message will go out soon to everyone on how it's going to be done, but the actual doing will be yours. There are maps with the last known information and the most important part of this will be updating it with new information. It's essentially a census of the nobles where they will volunteer their information with all eagerness. I trust you are up for this?"
He turns to Javni, "Go back to your Lady and learn of unusual meetings and communication taking place in the coming days. I will use Sending to check in every midday and more if necessary."
Then it's Vas' turn, "Everyone of every faith, sect and cult will try to bless the new queen during the coronation. Or curse, depending on the sect I guess. We already have an approved list and procedure for all of this made in advance. I need you to handle requests for changes in these procedures and personnel as they come in. We want to know of sudden changes of rituals, worshippers and other aspects. There is no better way to invoke magic than to already be performing some kind of an approved ritual, so we need to be extra careful."
Tock takes a deep breath and summarizes, "We knew this day would come and it would be tough on all of us. So did everyone else and all those plans will now be set in motion. We know of some and suspect others and the time for preparation is over. Now we instead need to focus our attention on changes - things that are out of the ordinary. People who act differently or talk to others they have not spoken to before. Appearance of new people - there are Lords out there who have probably never been to the capital their entire lives. Or people pretending to be lords."
He sighs, "There will be time for personal grieving afterwards. I know I miss him with all my heart."
Each of Tock's underlings nod, already aware of their role, but it is good to hear it again. This is an unprecedented change in power and, though Haddian worked hard before his death to smooth things over with any who would object, Tock and Spymaster Merro both know that such a peace is tenuous at best.
A knock on Tock's door causes Vas to rise and answer it. A royal messenger hands over a scroll, clearly sent from the Lords' senate. It states what Merro and Tock both knew and also what they expected. Haddian will be on display at the Temple of Mystra beginning at dawn for a full ten-day before being interred at the royal cemetery. That is no surprise. Neither is what follows. The coronation of princess Gentoa would be a full ten-day after that, beginning at the Temple of Milil. Somewhat surprising is that the vote was unanimous. Nobody objected, including the obvious detractors to the new queen, such as Kemball and Reistroff. This message would be going out to everyone not in the Senate, including the town criers and the King's council. From there it would spread across the country, informing everyone who wished to come say goodbye to King Haddian to come and do so. (Dog also receives this information at about the same time.)
With plans in place, it was only now a matter of ensuring it all went smoothly. Tock's team departed to speak with their respective groups, leaving Tock alone in his office for a peaceful moment. It might be the last moment of peace for some time.
(You may choose to do something or nothing but I will progress Tock's part of the story after your next post.)
Ronis is quiet for a moment. "...You very well may see for yourself soon enough. Now, if you'll excuse me Captain," He stands up, pushing the chair back with a loud scrape. "I believe I hear a sack of potatoes calling my name. Thank you for both your hospitality and the exquisite meal. If you see any other vessels you fear being pirates, or just need any candles lit, give me a shout and I'll come running." He bows his head, and then leaves to bed with the spuds.
Ronis is quiet for a moment. "...You very well may see for yourself soon enough. Now, if you'll excuse me Captain," He stands up, pushing the chair back with a loud scrape. "I believe I hear a sack of potatoes calling my name. Thank you for both your hospitality and the exquisite meal. If you see any other vessels you fear being pirates, or just need any candles lit, give me a shout and I'll come running." He bows his head, and then leaves to bed with the spuds.
He dreams again, nestled among the sacks of potatoes on his slender cot. It is the same dream as always, bizarre and urgent. Queen mother Duliani stands beside the throne, a young golden-haired girl in its seat. For some reason he knows it is Duliani but does not know the names of anyone else. Her husband is absent, not on the throne. It seems obvious that King Haddian has died, for some reason.
Ronis stands there, to the side of the throne room, watching everyone dance. It is a masquerade ball, held in the throne room for some reason. As he watches, the one standing at his right elbow leans in. "Go, dance with them," he says.
Ronis turns to see a man with no eyes. In his sockets are a million stars as in the night sky. "Who are you?" the sorcerer says.
Savras, as always.
The god's mouth does not move when he answers.
Ronis enters the dance floor with no partner. He is passed from person to person so quickly that he can only sense something of who they are. Duke, Elf, Necromancer, Mother, Goliath, Spy, Lady, Servant, Halfling, Friend, Foe, Angel, Demon, God..
Ronis stops himself from spinning and the ball has erupted in chaos. A masked dancer bursts wings from her back and is wielding a blazing sword against another angel. A demon and an angel square off against another demon. Two demons feast on a human in the center of the room. Parts of the throne room begin to crumble and, all the while, Queen Duliani watches placidly, unseeing to the destruction. The young queen on the throne plays happily with three goat toys as the throne begins to wither and die beneath her.
The sorcerer looks for Savras, finding him standing to the side where an angel sneaks up on him with a dagger in hand, raising it to strike a fatal blow.
And Ronis startles awake. But he is still in the dream. He is dancing with Savras. The masquerade ball has not erupted in violence. The dancers step and twirl lightly. The queen and her mother watch as if nothing has happened. Because it has not yet happened.
Warn her of what will come.
Ronis steps away from the night-eyed god and walks through the crowd of dancers. The one thing that is different every night in the dream then happens. Sailors, Verkolax, and the captain all stand to the side of the ball, watching the sorcerer ascend the stairs to the throne. He bows before the young queen and the girl's mother speaks.
"What is it, Ronis?"
He opens his mouth to answer. Then, he is awake again, among the potatoes, rocking gently in the hold of the Waterwyrm.
On deck, he finds the familiar stares of those who have seen his dream as he has. The captain steps out of his cabin and looks long and hard at Ronis. "Quartermaster, make haste for Delphendria."
"Aye aye, cap'n!" and the crew begin to scurry as if their lives depend on it.
(Delphendria will arrive in 2 days time. Your next post is what Ronis does in that time. Next stop, Delphendria.)
The father's mood improves considerably once his bruised eye and fractured wrist are mended. "Probably a whole new bloody wheel. But the problem is that I cannot get the bolts off this one to even try and mend it."
It is hard to see from where he stands, but Tick confirms that the wheel has cracked and the iron is thoroughly rusted on the bolts. "It looks like the wheel cracked at the bolts."
"I was hoping to mend it enough to get us to Va," says the half-elf. "We could put on a new wheel there. But if I cannot even get the bloody thing off, then we'll just be walking the rest of the way."
Looking at all the stuff that spilled from the cart, they would be leaving a lot of their possessions behind in that case.
The urgency to reach Alciondria is very present in Q'wai's mind, but he labors to hide the fact that he is pressed for time. "My friend has mended you, sir, and I will attempt to break the wheel free. Beyond that, I fear there is little else to be done."
Q'wai takes hold of the stubborn wagon wheel and considers giving it a tug. He looks at Tick and says softly, "Possibly this is a better idea." He takes a combat stance as he has done a thousand times in his life and, then, with all the focus he can muster, he kicks the wheel hub, hoping to knock it loose. (Martial arts strike: 21 | 8 bludgeoning damage)
Dog listens to the responses, eyes darting from one person to another, taking in some new information, and confirming other bits he's picked up over the last month or two. He nods in gratitude.
His mind flicks back to the Accords. "Upon the conclusion of the Accords, both parties agree to the chosen Steward to which the child is Ultimately entrusted in perpetuity. No further action will be taken to claim the Child, transfer her to a new Steward, or challenge the final ruling of the Adjudicator once the Accords have concluded." Did both parties agree to Haddian? Did the Adjudicator issue a final ruling?
He wished he had Tock with him. Tock always knew what to do. He speaks up. "So. That's what's supposed to happen. What shitstorm should we actually be prepared for? Who's going to try to make trouble over the next two tendays, and until Gentoa is older? Who will be snooping around and seek to influence?" He looks at the spymaster. "Who will rattle their sabers?"He looks at the general. "Will the tribes care?"He looks at the silverbraid.
"Forgive my bluntness. I'm a soldier, and new to this."
The father's mood improves considerably once his bruised eye and fractured wrist are mended. "Probably a whole new bloody wheel. But the problem is that I cannot get the bolts off this one to even try and mend it."
It is hard to see from where he stands, but Tick confirms that the wheel has cracked and the iron is thoroughly rusted on the bolts. "It looks like the wheel cracked at the bolts."
"I was hoping to mend it enough to get us to Va," says the half-elf. "We could put on a new wheel there. But if I cannot even get the bloody thing off, then we'll just be walking the rest of the way."
Looking at all the stuff that spilled from the cart, they would be leaving a lot of their possessions behind in that case.
The urgency to reach Alciondria is very present in Q'wai's mind, but he labors to hide the fact that he is pressed for time. "My friend has mended you, sir, and I will attempt to break the wheel free. Beyond that, I fear there is little else to be done."
Q'wai takes hold of the stubborn wagon wheel and considers giving it a tug. He looks at Tick and says softly, "Possibly this is a better idea." He takes a combat stance as he has done a thousand times in his life and, then, with all the focus he can muster, he kicks the wheel hub, hoping to knock it loose. (Martial arts strike: 21 | 8 bludgeoning damage)
The wheel shatters at its center, slumping into an deformed egg shape and falling off the axle. The spokes stick out like jagged troll teeth.
"Well, that did...a trick," says Tick.
"Damnation," the half-elf says as his wife sets the wagon back down. He resigns himself to what he always knew was the outcome. "Well, I suppose that was inevitable. The wheel just wasn't coming off no matter what. Thank you for your help, sir. At least we can expect to find the wagon still here when I return in a few days, if not our belongings."
Dog listens to the responses, eyes darting from one person to another, taking in some new information, and confirming other bits he's picked up over the last month or two. He nods in gratitude.
His mind flicks back to the Accords. "Upon the conclusion of the Accords, both parties agree to the chosen Steward to which the child is Ultimately entrusted in perpetuity. No further action will be taken to claim the Child, transfer her to a new Steward, or challenge the final ruling of the Adjudicator once the Accords have concluded." Did both parties agree to Haddian? Did the Adjudicator issue a final ruling?
He wished he had Tock with him. Tock always knew what to do. He speaks up. "So. That's what's supposed to happen. What shitstorm should we actually be prepared for? Who's going to try to make trouble over the next two tendays, and until Gentoa is older? Who will be snooping around and seek to influence?" He looks at the spymaster. "Who will rattle their sabers?"He looks at the general. "Will the tribes care?"He looks at the silverbraid.
"Forgive my bluntness. I'm a soldier, and new to this."
"The tribes favor Haddian's decision," Silverbraid says. "They always have. It makes the monarchy more...transparent. More accessible."
Merro nods. "Yes, the tribes are not the concern. It is those who will lose influence that you should be concerned about. The nobles who have enjoyed exalted privilege under Harvell and Haddian's rule and see it threatened with the introduction of an outsider. A few names leap to mind that I will not share without better evidence."
"The army sees no threat in Gentoa taking the throne, especially with Queen Mother Duliani acting as regent for the next 14 or 16 years," says Polititus.
Kurvo nods in agreement. "The navy is the same," he says. "A lot will depend on how popular Gentoa is once she is older, of course. But the next decade does not look to be much in the way of political upheaval to us."
During the discussion Guildmaster Juiri enters the room. She is a dwarf who has lived her entire life above ground with humans, elves, and halflings. She chimes in, saying, "There are guilds who are concerned but none so much as I would even mention them for suspicion. Change always brings worry, of course. The uncertainty has people holding onto their coin a little more than usual but nobody is angry at Haddian or his wife. There is a lot of trust in the system we have in place. The line of succession has been made clear. The Lords' Senate still has its power. The Queen Mother will govern as she has slowly been doing over the last year. Stability will make the transition an easier one. Look for those who would benefit from instability, I suppose."
The wheel shatters at its center, slumping into an deformed egg shape and falling off the axle. The spokes stick out like jagged troll teeth.
"Well, that did...a trick," says Tick.
"Damnation," the half-elf says as his wife sets the wagon back down. He resigns himself to what he always knew was the outcome. "Well, I suppose that was inevitable. The wheel just wasn't coming off no matter what. Thank you for your help, sir. At least we can expect to find the wagon still here when I return in a few days, if not our belongings."
"Possibly inevitable," replies Q'wai a bit forlornly.
The monk reaches into one of the pouches on Kazar's back and hands fifty pieces of gold to the half-elf. "Please accept this. For the wheel. And for any further trouble that might lie ahead."
As he nudges Kazar forward on the journey to Va, Q'wai looks at Tick and says, "I know what you're prepared to say, witty friend. So, I shall say it for you: I wasn't the correct spokesperson for that wheel."
The wheel shatters at its center, slumping into an deformed egg shape and falling off the axle. The spokes stick out like jagged troll teeth.
"Well, that did...a trick," says Tick.
"Damnation," the half-elf says as his wife sets the wagon back down. He resigns himself to what he always knew was the outcome. "Well, I suppose that was inevitable. The wheel just wasn't coming off no matter what. Thank you for your help, sir. At least we can expect to find the wagon still here when I return in a few days, if not our belongings."
"Possibly inevitable," replies Q'wai a bit forlornly.
The monk reaches into one of the pouches on Kazar's back and hands fifty pieces of gold to the half-elf. "Please accept this. For the wheel. And for any further trouble that might lie ahead."
As he nudges Kazar forward on the journey to Va, Q'wai looks at Tick and says, "I know what you're prepared to say, witty friend. So, I shall say it for you: I wasn't the correct spokesperson for that wheel."
The half-elf is stunned by Q'wai's offer. "Sir, this must be more than our possessions are possibly worth!"
With Q'wai's insistence, however, he accepts the coin and the family agree they can continue on to Va with lighter burdens, literally and figuratively, thanks to the monk.
As they head back on the road, Tick chastises his friend. "Don't go horning in on my turf, pal. I'm the bard. You're the uptight, overly driven, insanely talented monk." But Tick plays Q'wai's favorite song on his pipes as they make their way.
Va is exactly as Tick and Q'wai remember. It is a bustling port town, more concerned with the fishing trade, importing and exporting, and entertaining the men and women of those professions than aesthetics or tourism. It smells of the sea, but also of fish, a paper mill, and vinegar stills. It is a town of acquired taste and one that Q'wai and Tick have little time to stay and acquire. They are presently on schedule to make it to Alciondria...but only if they can find a ship making the trek across the Bottomless Sea to the capital intending to leave in the next 24 hours. It is early evening...about supper time...and the docks are still opening and bustling with porters, fishermen returning, and merchants selling their wares in a cacophony of discordant sounds.
As the advisers reply in kind to Dog's questions, he raises a finger ineffectually and begins speaking to try to interrupt but fails each time. This continues as Juiri enters and adds hers. When he is finally able to get a word in edgewise, he takes in a breath, holds it, smiles, closes his eyes, tilts his head downward, and lets out his breath in a half-chortle. "Forgive me. As I said, I'm bad at this. None of my questions were directed internally, or at any of you. I meant who outside of the kingdom would seek to influence and snoop, whose sabers would rattle outside the kingdom, which tribes not under your purview might wish to cause trouble. I should... listen to wiser and cooler heads and learn how to speak more effectively."
He makes small talk and attempts to cover for his slip-up with some time listening to stories and concerns, answering any questions people have. (Is Dog a part of this group at all, or does he not really belong? If the former, he'll stick around for a bit longer and then leave, and if the latter, he'll make some polite excuses and go try to find Tock.)
As the advisers reply in kind to Dog's questions, he raises a finger ineffectually and begins speaking to try to interrupt but fails each time. This continues as Juiri enters and adds hers. When he is finally able to get a word in edgewise, he takes in a breath, holds it, smiles, closes his eyes, tilts his head downward, and lets out his breath in a half-chortle. "Forgive me. As I said, I'm bad at this. None of my questions were directed internally, or at any of you. I meant who outside of the kingdom would seek to influence and snoop, whose sabers would rattle outside the kingdom, which tribes not under your purview might wish to cause trouble. I should... listen to wiser and cooler heads and learn how to speak more effectively."
"Well, that is a good question," Polititus says. "Alcion is the strongest military might on the continent. Poria is our closest ally, thanks to Haddian's marriage to Duliani, but they are much smaller and less wealthy than Alcion. Of course, they now have control of the throne for the next decade and a half, but Duliani has been nothing but loyal to Haddian and the country. She is not one to be persuaded by her homeland easily."
"A LOT of merchants are expanding their businesses to Poria right now, though," says the guildmaster. "They expect trade to increase significantly between our countries."
"The northern tribes are not organized enough to tackle Alcion," Polititus says, ignoring Juiri.
"And they have no navy to speak of," says Parvo. "Nor do the Eastern Tribes on the other side of Poria. The Fang have been building ships, though."
"True. And a violent nation to say the least. But they are small. Harbach, though," says Polititus.
"Yes, Harbach," says Parvo.
"Harbach is no threat," says Merro. "They have almost no spies in Alcion. Not that they haven't tried. I suspect they won't even hear of Haddian's death until the coronation."
"Still," says Polititus. "They will have years to plan something while Duliani governs. And then they will have years after that with a naive ruler on the throne. I would not discount King Folivan of Harbach changing his foreign policy towards both Poria and Alcion in the future."
This leaves the group in contemplative silence. The silence is broken by a messenger bearing the news that the Lords' Senate has voted and the funeral will begin at dawn in the Temple of Mystra, conclude in 10 days at the royal cemetery. The coronation will be 10 days after that, beginning at the Temple of Milil and concluding at the throne in the palace.
Dog takes this as an opportunity to gives his thanks for the chat and departs to drop in on Tock and then give the news to those back in the guest quarters.
He makes small talk and attempts to cover for his slip-up with some time listening to stories and concerns, answering any questions people have. (Is Dog a part of this group at all, or does he not really belong? If the former, he'll stick around for a bit longer and then leave, and if the latter, he'll make some polite excuses and go try to find Tock.)
No, because Gentoa is entirely his purview. But that will continue once she is queen, so he is granted broad access to the King's advisors.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Va is exactly as Tick and Q'wai remember. It is a bustling port town, more concerned with the fishing trade, importing and exporting, and entertaining the men and women of those professions than aesthetics or tourism. It smells of the sea, but also of fish, a paper mill, and vinegar stills. It is a town of acquired taste and one that Q'wai and Tick have little time to stay and acquire. They are presently on schedule to make it to Alciondria...but only if they can find a ship making the trek across the Bottomless Sea to the capital intending to leave in the next 24 hours. It is early evening...about supper time...and the docks are still opening and bustling with porters, fishermen returning, and merchants selling their wares in a cacophony of discordant sounds.
Q'wai arranges for the night's lodgings and the stabling of Kazar as near to the docks as possible. Having no interest in haggling or finding a fair rate, Q'wai obligingly pays the asking price (and knows that doing so will likely annoy his sidekick).
"Procure passage to Alciondria, first," recommends Q'wai. "Food and drink afterward."
As he and Tick make their way through commotion of the docks, Q'wai explains, "If your penchant for persuasion is needed this evening, then so be it. But let us cheat no one in the process."
Q'wai and Tick scour the docks, listening to conversations, asking questions, and, doing their best detective work to find the vessel and crew that will grant them and their belongings speedy passage to Alciondria as soon as possible. (Investigation: Q'wai 9 | Tick 20) (Perception/Insight: Q'wai 22 | Tick 15)
Ronis likely wouldn't do all that much during the two days. He might chat amicably with whomever wishes to, asking about them and how long they've been in the seafaring business, and if asked about himself might give scattered details about his travels, perhaps a few tales about ceatures he's fought. He'd help around the ship if he could, but he's not exactly the most physically able sorcerer out there. Likely spends a long time just looking out over the ocean.
Dog tells everything to Tock, knowing he already knows most of it and more. "What I'm really trying to say is, what should we prepare for? Invisible spies? Mind control again? Not assassination? We talked about getting rings of mind shielding for the whole family, and some nondetection items. But I feel like I'm jumping at shadows. And moving onto your turf. Your advice is welcome, my friend."
Va is exactly as Tick and Q'wai remember. It is a bustling port town, more concerned with the fishing trade, importing and exporting, and entertaining the men and women of those professions than aesthetics or tourism. It smells of the sea, but also of fish, a paper mill, and vinegar stills. It is a town of acquired taste and one that Q'wai and Tick have little time to stay and acquire. They are presently on schedule to make it to Alciondria...but only if they can find a ship making the trek across the Bottomless Sea to the capital intending to leave in the next 24 hours. It is early evening...about supper time...and the docks are still opening and bustling with porters, fishermen returning, and merchants selling their wares in a cacophony of discordant sounds.
Q'wai arranges for the night's lodgings and the stabling of Kazar as near to the docks as possible. Having no interest in haggling or finding a fair rate, Q'wai obligingly pays the asking price (and knows that doing so will likely annoy his sidekick).
"Procure passage to Alciondria, first," recommends Q'wai. "Food and drink afterward."
As he and Tick make their way through commotion of the docks, Q'wai explains, "If your penchant for persuasion is needed this evening, then so be it. But let us cheat no one in the process."
Q'wai and Tick scour the docks, listening to conversations, asking questions, and, doing their best detective work to find the vessel and crew that will grant them and their belongings speedy passage to Alciondria as soon as possible. (Investigation: Q'wai 6 | Tick 6) (Perception/Insight: Q'wai 10 | Tick 9)
(Wow, unlucky rolls!)
The search is fruitless on this evening, giving the pair shrugs or scowls in response to their queries. Q'wai notices several slips are empty and hopes that new ships will arrive tomorrow that may offer a different story. Tick says that he only found a couple of pleasure craft that were not attended. Perhaps their owners could be found as a last resort. The pair retire to the inn late, uncertain of what the next day will bring.
Ronis likely wouldn't do all that much during the two days. He might chat amicably with whomever wishes to, asking about them and how long they've been in the seafaring business, and if asked about himself might give scattered details about his travels, perhaps a few tales about ceatures he's fought. He'd help around the ship if he could, but he's not exactly the most physically able sorcerer out there. Likely spends a long time just looking out over the ocean.
By the final day, the crew seem to be on edge, having all experienced Ronis' vivid dream at least once. When Delphendria is sighted, a cheer rises from the ship as if they had not seen land for a hundred days. Ronis thanks the crew and captain, but they accept it as quickly and brusquely as they can before they begin unloading their wares.
"I'm glad to have found you," the captain says, "But I hope we never cross paths again. I mean no disrespect in saying so. You've got a dark future ahead of you. And I'll not tread lightly in the affairs the gods. Go with fair winds, Ronis."
As Ronis walks down the long pier, a shadow trails alongside him in the water. He can make out the bronze coloring, Verkolax is so close to the surface. Stopping, he sees the dragon poke the top of its head out of the water, just enough to look up at Ronis with pleading eyes...
Dog tells everything to Tock, knowing he already knows most of it and more. "What I'm really trying to say is, what should we prepare for? Invisible spies? Mind control again? Not assassination? We talked about getting rings of mind shielding for the whole family, and some nondetection items. But I feel like I'm jumping at shadows. And moving onto your turf. Your advice is welcome, my friend."
After setting his team on their tasks, Tockhas stayed contemplating the news of the unanimous vote. He doesn't get anywhere though, not having had enough time to immerse himself in ALL of the politics. Merro would know though, but it feels like this could wait.
As Dogsteps in, Tockstands up and hugs the man for a long moment in a silent sharing of grief and burden.
He leans against the desk listening to him quietly. "I've been thinking on these very same things for a good long while. I believe we both agree that something will happen. Very probably many things will happen that we are not expecting. You are both jumping at shadows and not jumping at shadows. I don't think we can prepare for this any more than we have. But there is one thing left to do that I had hoped to do before this day, but this Emissary business is very demanding."
Tockwalks to a wall, pushes a curtain aside to reveal a blackboard with one question written on it, "What went wrong?" "Lets take a half hour, this might be valuable"
He explains, "We can't prepare for everything, but what we can do is look back from the future. The coronation is in two ten-days. Lets pretend it's now four ten-days from today and everything went terribly, horribly wrong. And we are sitting there and listing all the things that went wrong. Now there are multiple things that can go wrong and we can work through these later, especially when others get here as well, but lets start with.."
He writes, "Coronation failed, nation and continent in chaos," then turns to Dog, "What went wrong?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The search is fruitless on this evening, giving the pair shrugs or scowls in response to their queries. Q'wai notices several slips are empty and hopes that new ships will arrive tomorrow that may offer a different story. Tick says that he only found a couple of pleasure craft that were not attended. Perhaps their owners could be found as a last resort. The pair retire to the inn late, uncertain of what the next day will bring.
After an early breakfast, Q'wai continues his search for passage to Alciondria, unconcerned about his previous lack of fortune. Within one his robe's pockets, he carries a small chrysoprase and a piece of jasper, potential bargaining chips. Before leaving the inn, he inquires of its proprietor, "I seek a ship's captain. Did any lodge in this place last night?" Possibly, scouring the docks a second time may not be necessary.
If this is not the case, then Q'wai will visit a few of the nearest taverns. "The best sailors are the least sober,"he remarks to Tick. (Investigation: 15)
If neither the inn nor the taverns pan out, the search at the docks will resume. As they approach the jumble of ships and sails, Q'wai says, "A bit of inspiration may be necessary, Tick."
Looking for newly-arrived ships and crews, he patiently but determinedly hunts for the right vessel. (Investigation:6 + 5bardic inspiration)
"Betrayal. Attempted queen-napping. Mind control. Coup. Attempted coup. Infernal interference. A well-meaning circus act. A failed horse trade."Dog closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, and engages in the thought exercise with his friend for quite some time, talking through each possibility.
"Really, we need to secure the sound minds of Nev, Genny, Duliani, and their advisers. Including ourselves. We could use a lot more gems of seeing. Some anti-scrying arcana to prevent anyone else from knowing what we're planning. I've been using that thought detection magic I told you about, and it's useful, if I can guide the conversation to bring out surface thoughts. I will keep myself and my people close to Gentoa for the next few tendays. And you can keep your people on mind and arcane security."
Dog is most curious about Duliani's agenda. Nev and she have become close, which is good. But will that change with Haddian gone? Will someone start to push her to do something... short-sighted?
"I defer to your sense of this. Just tell me when you start to expect something and I'll try to act on it. And don't be shy about seeking oversight to monitor the royal quarters and personage for interference. Name what you need and you'll have it."
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(Not especially. There was MUCH discussion about the precedent and the political fallout for it but Gentoa has largely been kept out of political meetings. She has met a number of nobility, even a few her own age, but the meetings have been introductory at best.)
Polititus sighs. "Harvell is harmless. He is a lech, to be certain, but his political aspirations are zero. His grandfather, Harvell the first, convinced him to lead a life of luxury. Bought him off, basically, so that Haddian could be king. It was a wise choice but Harvell clearly adopted his role with gusto."
(Hopefully they aren't going to age Haddian in a cask! "Would you like a glass of Haddian?")
Polititus fields the question. "King Haddian will be displayed at the Temple of Mystra, since that was his favored god, for a full ten-day beginning at dawn tomorrow. The people will be able to pay their respects to Haddian directly there. On the tenth day he will be interred after a lengthy ceremony at the royal cemetery. Emissary Tock has been compiling a list of those invited to speak, including Duliani, myself, Dux Peritus, Prince Harvell, and Ommulyn Huis, one of Haddian's oldest friends from the Mage Academy.
"The Lords' Senate is gathering now to decide whether or not the coronation must happen now or if it should wait. Spymaster Merro, pardon the interruption, but what is your intelligence say on the outcome of the vote in the Senate?"
The spymaster halts his conversation with Silverbraid to answer. "Oh, I suspect it will be a near unanimous vote to hold the coronation in two ten-days. The primary argument is that Queen Duliani will be regent no matter when the coronation occurs. They want to give the people a chance to grieve before they are handed a new monarch. A two year-old at that. The general feeling is that there is no urgency in this particular situation."
Polititus nods, turning back to Dog. "The coronation will be lavish. It will begin at the Temple of Milil, for that is the princess' father, and proceed as a royal parade to the gates of the palace and the throne room. It is there that young Gentoa shall be crowned and we will have a new queen."
Some of this Dog knew but Polititus is always thorough in his responses, no matter the audience.
Each of Tock's underlings nod, already aware of their role, but it is good to hear it again. This is an unprecedented change in power and, though Haddian worked hard before his death to smooth things over with any who would object, Tock and Spymaster Merro both know that such a peace is tenuous at best.
A knock on Tock's door causes Vas to rise and answer it. A royal messenger hands over a scroll, clearly sent from the Lords' senate. It states what Merro and Tock both knew and also what they expected. Haddian will be on display at the Temple of Mystra beginning at dawn for a full ten-day before being interred at the royal cemetery. That is no surprise. Neither is what follows. The coronation of princess Gentoa would be a full ten-day after that, beginning at the Temple of Milil. Somewhat surprising is that the vote was unanimous. Nobody objected, including the obvious detractors to the new queen, such as Kemball and Reistroff. This message would be going out to everyone not in the Senate, including the town criers and the King's council. From there it would spread across the country, informing everyone who wished to come say goodbye to King Haddian to come and do so. (Dog also receives this information at about the same time.)
With plans in place, it was only now a matter of ensuring it all went smoothly. Tock's team departed to speak with their respective groups, leaving Tock alone in his office for a peaceful moment. It might be the last moment of peace for some time.
(You may choose to do something or nothing but I will progress Tock's part of the story after your next post.)
Ronis is quiet for a moment. "...You very well may see for yourself soon enough. Now, if you'll excuse me Captain," He stands up, pushing the chair back with a loud scrape. "I believe I hear a sack of potatoes calling my name. Thank you for both your hospitality and the exquisite meal. If you see any other vessels you fear being pirates, or just need any candles lit, give me a shout and I'll come running." He bows his head, and then leaves to bed with the spuds.
He dreams again, nestled among the sacks of potatoes on his slender cot. It is the same dream as always, bizarre and urgent. Queen mother Duliani stands beside the throne, a young golden-haired girl in its seat. For some reason he knows it is Duliani but does not know the names of anyone else. Her husband is absent, not on the throne. It seems obvious that King Haddian has died, for some reason.
Ronis stands there, to the side of the throne room, watching everyone dance. It is a masquerade ball, held in the throne room for some reason. As he watches, the one standing at his right elbow leans in. "Go, dance with them," he says.
Ronis turns to see a man with no eyes. In his sockets are a million stars as in the night sky. "Who are you?" the sorcerer says.
Savras, as always.
The god's mouth does not move when he answers.
Ronis enters the dance floor with no partner. He is passed from person to person so quickly that he can only sense something of who they are. Duke, Elf, Necromancer, Mother, Goliath, Spy, Lady, Servant, Halfling, Friend, Foe, Angel, Demon, God..
Ronis stops himself from spinning and the ball has erupted in chaos. A masked dancer bursts wings from her back and is wielding a blazing sword against another angel. A demon and an angel square off against another demon. Two demons feast on a human in the center of the room. Parts of the throne room begin to crumble and, all the while, Queen Duliani watches placidly, unseeing to the destruction. The young queen on the throne plays happily with three goat toys as the throne begins to wither and die beneath her.
The sorcerer looks for Savras, finding him standing to the side where an angel sneaks up on him with a dagger in hand, raising it to strike a fatal blow.
And Ronis startles awake. But he is still in the dream. He is dancing with Savras. The masquerade ball has not erupted in violence. The dancers step and twirl lightly. The queen and her mother watch as if nothing has happened. Because it has not yet happened.
Warn her of what will come.
Ronis steps away from the night-eyed god and walks through the crowd of dancers. The one thing that is different every night in the dream then happens. Sailors, Verkolax, and the captain all stand to the side of the ball, watching the sorcerer ascend the stairs to the throne. He bows before the young queen and the girl's mother speaks.
"What is it, Ronis?"
He opens his mouth to answer. Then, he is awake again, among the potatoes, rocking gently in the hold of the Waterwyrm.
On deck, he finds the familiar stares of those who have seen his dream as he has. The captain steps out of his cabin and looks long and hard at Ronis. "Quartermaster, make haste for Delphendria."
"Aye aye, cap'n!" and the crew begin to scurry as if their lives depend on it.
(Delphendria will arrive in 2 days time. Your next post is what Ronis does in that time. Next stop, Delphendria.)
Dog listens to the responses, eyes darting from one person to another, taking in some new information, and confirming other bits he's picked up over the last month or two. He nods in gratitude.
His mind flicks back to the Accords. "Upon the conclusion of the Accords, both parties agree to the chosen Steward to which the child is Ultimately entrusted in perpetuity. No further action will be taken to claim the Child, transfer her to a new Steward, or challenge the final ruling of the Adjudicator once the Accords have concluded." Did both parties agree to Haddian? Did the Adjudicator issue a final ruling?
He wished he had Tock with him. Tock always knew what to do. He speaks up. "So. That's what's supposed to happen. What shitstorm should we actually be prepared for? Who's going to try to make trouble over the next two tendays, and until Gentoa is older? Who will be snooping around and seek to influence?" He looks at the spymaster. "Who will rattle their sabers?" He looks at the general. "Will the tribes care?" He looks at the silverbraid.
"Forgive my bluntness. I'm a soldier, and new to this."
The wheel shatters at its center, slumping into an deformed egg shape and falling off the axle. The spokes stick out like jagged troll teeth.
"Well, that did...a trick," says Tick.
"Damnation," the half-elf says as his wife sets the wagon back down. He resigns himself to what he always knew was the outcome. "Well, I suppose that was inevitable. The wheel just wasn't coming off no matter what. Thank you for your help, sir. At least we can expect to find the wagon still here when I return in a few days, if not our belongings."
"The tribes favor Haddian's decision," Silverbraid says. "They always have. It makes the monarchy more...transparent. More accessible."
Merro nods. "Yes, the tribes are not the concern. It is those who will lose influence that you should be concerned about. The nobles who have enjoyed exalted privilege under Harvell and Haddian's rule and see it threatened with the introduction of an outsider. A few names leap to mind that I will not share without better evidence."
"The army sees no threat in Gentoa taking the throne, especially with Queen Mother Duliani acting as regent for the next 14 or 16 years," says Polititus.
Kurvo nods in agreement. "The navy is the same," he says. "A lot will depend on how popular Gentoa is once she is older, of course. But the next decade does not look to be much in the way of political upheaval to us."
During the discussion Guildmaster Juiri enters the room. She is a dwarf who has lived her entire life above ground with humans, elves, and halflings. She chimes in, saying, "There are guilds who are concerned but none so much as I would even mention them for suspicion. Change always brings worry, of course. The uncertainty has people holding onto their coin a little more than usual but nobody is angry at Haddian or his wife. There is a lot of trust in the system we have in place. The line of succession has been made clear. The Lords' Senate still has its power. The Queen Mother will govern as she has slowly been doing over the last year. Stability will make the transition an easier one. Look for those who would benefit from instability, I suppose."
"Possibly inevitable," replies Q'wai a bit forlornly.
The monk reaches into one of the pouches on Kazar's back and hands fifty pieces of gold to the half-elf. "Please accept this. For the wheel. And for any further trouble that might lie ahead."
As he nudges Kazar forward on the journey to Va, Q'wai looks at Tick and says, "I know what you're prepared to say, witty friend. So, I shall say it for you: I wasn't the correct spokesperson for that wheel."
The half-elf is stunned by Q'wai's offer. "Sir, this must be more than our possessions are possibly worth!"
With Q'wai's insistence, however, he accepts the coin and the family agree they can continue on to Va with lighter burdens, literally and figuratively, thanks to the monk.
As they head back on the road, Tick chastises his friend. "Don't go horning in on my turf, pal. I'm the bard. You're the uptight, overly driven, insanely talented monk." But Tick plays Q'wai's favorite song on his pipes as they make their way.
Va is exactly as Tick and Q'wai remember. It is a bustling port town, more concerned with the fishing trade, importing and exporting, and entertaining the men and women of those professions than aesthetics or tourism. It smells of the sea, but also of fish, a paper mill, and vinegar stills. It is a town of acquired taste and one that Q'wai and Tick have little time to stay and acquire. They are presently on schedule to make it to Alciondria...but only if they can find a ship making the trek across the Bottomless Sea to the capital intending to leave in the next 24 hours. It is early evening...about supper time...and the docks are still opening and bustling with porters, fishermen returning, and merchants selling their wares in a cacophony of discordant sounds.
As the advisers reply in kind to Dog's questions, he raises a finger ineffectually and begins speaking to try to interrupt but fails each time. This continues as Juiri enters and adds hers. When he is finally able to get a word in edgewise, he takes in a breath, holds it, smiles, closes his eyes, tilts his head downward, and lets out his breath in a half-chortle. "Forgive me. As I said, I'm bad at this. None of my questions were directed internally, or at any of you. I meant who outside of the kingdom would seek to influence and snoop, whose sabers would rattle outside the kingdom, which tribes not under your purview might wish to cause trouble. I should... listen to wiser and cooler heads and learn how to speak more effectively."
He makes small talk and attempts to cover for his slip-up with some time listening to stories and concerns, answering any questions people have. (Is Dog a part of this group at all, or does he not really belong? If the former, he'll stick around for a bit longer and then leave, and if the latter, he'll make some polite excuses and go try to find Tock.)
"Well, that is a good question," Polititus says. "Alcion is the strongest military might on the continent. Poria is our closest ally, thanks to Haddian's marriage to Duliani, but they are much smaller and less wealthy than Alcion. Of course, they now have control of the throne for the next decade and a half, but Duliani has been nothing but loyal to Haddian and the country. She is not one to be persuaded by her homeland easily."
"A LOT of merchants are expanding their businesses to Poria right now, though," says the guildmaster. "They expect trade to increase significantly between our countries."
"The northern tribes are not organized enough to tackle Alcion," Polititus says, ignoring Juiri.
"And they have no navy to speak of," says Parvo. "Nor do the Eastern Tribes on the other side of Poria. The Fang have been building ships, though."
"True. And a violent nation to say the least. But they are small. Harbach, though," says Polititus.
"Yes, Harbach," says Parvo.
"Harbach is no threat," says Merro. "They have almost no spies in Alcion. Not that they haven't tried. I suspect they won't even hear of Haddian's death until the coronation."
"Still," says Polititus. "They will have years to plan something while Duliani governs. And then they will have years after that with a naive ruler on the throne. I would not discount King Folivan of Harbach changing his foreign policy towards both Poria and Alcion in the future."
This leaves the group in contemplative silence. The silence is broken by a messenger bearing the news that the Lords' Senate has voted and the funeral will begin at dawn in the Temple of Mystra, conclude in 10 days at the royal cemetery. The coronation will be 10 days after that, beginning at the Temple of Milil and concluding at the throne in the palace.
Dog takes this as an opportunity to gives his thanks for the chat and departs to drop in on Tock and then give the news to those back in the guest quarters.
No, because Gentoa is entirely his purview. But that will continue once she is queen, so he is granted broad access to the King's advisors.
Q'wai arranges for the night's lodgings and the stabling of Kazar as near to the docks as possible. Having no interest in haggling or finding a fair rate, Q'wai obligingly pays the asking price (and knows that doing so will likely annoy his sidekick).
"Procure passage to Alciondria, first," recommends Q'wai. "Food and drink afterward."
As he and Tick make their way through commotion of the docks, Q'wai explains, "If your penchant for persuasion is needed this evening, then so be it. But let us cheat no one in the process."
Q'wai and Tick scour the docks, listening to conversations, asking questions, and, doing their best detective work to find the vessel and crew that will grant them and their belongings speedy passage to Alciondria as soon as possible. (Investigation: Q'wai 9 | Tick 20) (Perception/Insight: Q'wai 22 | Tick 15)
Ronis likely wouldn't do all that much during the two days. He might chat amicably with whomever wishes to, asking about them and how long they've been in the seafaring business, and if asked about himself might give scattered details about his travels, perhaps a few tales about ceatures he's fought. He'd help around the ship if he could, but he's not exactly the most physically able sorcerer out there. Likely spends a long time just looking out over the ocean.
Dog tells everything to Tock, knowing he already knows most of it and more. "What I'm really trying to say is, what should we prepare for? Invisible spies? Mind control again? Not assassination? We talked about getting rings of mind shielding for the whole family, and some nondetection items. But I feel like I'm jumping at shadows. And moving onto your turf. Your advice is welcome, my friend."
(Wow, unlucky rolls!)
The search is fruitless on this evening, giving the pair shrugs or scowls in response to their queries. Q'wai notices several slips are empty and hopes that new ships will arrive tomorrow that may offer a different story. Tick says that he only found a couple of pleasure craft that were not attended. Perhaps their owners could be found as a last resort. The pair retire to the inn late, uncertain of what the next day will bring.
(Inn, food, and stabling costs: 19 silver)
By the final day, the crew seem to be on edge, having all experienced Ronis' vivid dream at least once. When Delphendria is sighted, a cheer rises from the ship as if they had not seen land for a hundred days. Ronis thanks the crew and captain, but they accept it as quickly and brusquely as they can before they begin unloading their wares.
"I'm glad to have found you," the captain says, "But I hope we never cross paths again. I mean no disrespect in saying so. You've got a dark future ahead of you. And I'll not tread lightly in the affairs the gods. Go with fair winds, Ronis."
As Ronis walks down the long pier, a shadow trails alongside him in the water. He can make out the bronze coloring, Verkolax is so close to the surface. Stopping, he sees the dragon poke the top of its head out of the water, just enough to look up at Ronis with pleading eyes...
After setting his team on their tasks, Tock has stayed contemplating the news of the unanimous vote. He doesn't get anywhere though, not having had enough time to immerse himself in ALL of the politics. Merro would know though, but it feels like this could wait.
As Dog steps in, Tock stands up and hugs the man for a long moment in a silent sharing of grief and burden.
He leans against the desk listening to him quietly. "I've been thinking on these very same things for a good long while. I believe we both agree that something will happen. Very probably many things will happen that we are not expecting. You are both jumping at shadows and not jumping at shadows. I don't think we can prepare for this any more than we have. But there is one thing left to do that I had hoped to do before this day, but this Emissary business is very demanding."
Tock walks to a wall, pushes a curtain aside to reveal a blackboard with one question written on it, "What went wrong?" "Lets take a half hour, this might be valuable"
He explains, "We can't prepare for everything, but what we can do is look back from the future. The coronation is in two ten-days. Lets pretend it's now four ten-days from today and everything went terribly, horribly wrong. And we are sitting there and listing all the things that went wrong. Now there are multiple things that can go wrong and we can work through these later, especially when others get here as well, but lets start with.. "
He writes, "Coronation failed, nation and continent in chaos," then turns to Dog, "What went wrong?"
After an early breakfast, Q'wai continues his search for passage to Alciondria, unconcerned about his previous lack of fortune. Within one his robe's pockets, he carries a small chrysoprase and a piece of jasper, potential bargaining chips. Before leaving the inn, he inquires of its proprietor, "I seek a ship's captain. Did any lodge in this place last night?" Possibly, scouring the docks a second time may not be necessary.
If this is not the case, then Q'wai will visit a few of the nearest taverns. "The best sailors are the least sober," he remarks to Tick. (Investigation: 15)
If neither the inn nor the taverns pan out, the search at the docks will resume. As they approach the jumble of ships and sails, Q'wai says, "A bit of inspiration may be necessary, Tick."
Looking for newly-arrived ships and crews, he patiently but determinedly hunts for the right vessel. (Investigation:6 + 5 bardic inspiration)
EDIT: Investigation for Tick: 8
"Betrayal. Attempted queen-napping. Mind control. Coup. Attempted coup. Infernal interference. A well-meaning circus act. A failed horse trade." Dog closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, and engages in the thought exercise with his friend for quite some time, talking through each possibility.
"Really, we need to secure the sound minds of Nev, Genny, Duliani, and their advisers. Including ourselves. We could use a lot more gems of seeing. Some anti-scrying arcana to prevent anyone else from knowing what we're planning. I've been using that thought detection magic I told you about, and it's useful, if I can guide the conversation to bring out surface thoughts. I will keep myself and my people close to Gentoa for the next few tendays. And you can keep your people on mind and arcane security."
Dog is most curious about Duliani's agenda. Nev and she have become close, which is good. But will that change with Haddian gone? Will someone start to push her to do something... short-sighted?
"I defer to your sense of this. Just tell me when you start to expect something and I'll try to act on it. And don't be shy about seeking oversight to monitor the royal quarters and personage for interference. Name what you need and you'll have it."