PCs (lvl 11): Flynn, Tuarninn, Udo, Tuarim
MR 675 - Summer
With the realm of Muden now firmly divided between the supporters of Flynn Quaid and Duke Rikard Talbher, the heroes find themselves confronting not only political rivals, but also the responsibilities of rulership.
One such responsibility is the delicate matter of succession. As the prospect of open war looms ever closer, the question of who should inherit if one of the rulers falls can no longer be ignored. Tuarnin settles the matter quickly by naming his trusted lieutenant, Gertrud Yrsadottr, as his heir. Flynn's decision proves far more difficult. His children are still infants, and appointing Lady Nacht as heir raises concerns among both his companions and his family. A heated family dispute follows before calmer voices prevail, and Flynn ultimately names Lady Nacht as his lawful successor, ensuring continuity should tragedy befall him.
Before departing Lichtenstein, Lord Thalion seeks a final audience with Flynn. Their conversation is frank and, at times, tense. Flynn voices his growing frustration with the Anuirean noble's constant involvement in the affairs of Muden, questioning both his motives and his methods. Thalion accepts the criticism with surprising humility and promises to exercise greater restraint in the future. Flynn then asks whether he might one day meet the other bearers of the ancient crowns. Thalion explains that each is consumed by crises within their own realms, making such a gathering impossible for the foreseeable future. Perhaps, he suggests, when Flynn's own kingdom has grown stronger and more secure, he will be able to journey to them instead.
Political intrigue soon gives way to a far more immediate crisis. An envoy from Count Gregor Schadelfaust of Tresthalen arrives bearing grave accusations. Villages within the count's domain have been raided by soldiers carrying Flynn's banners, and tensions between the two factions threaten to erupt into open war. Certain of their innocence, the heroes immediately offer to travel to Tresthalen and investigate the attacks themselves.
Before they can depart, however, the envoy is assassinated in his chambers, poisoned by a group of courtesans. The assassination transforms a diplomatic mission into a murder investigation. Some clues point toward agents of Lord Thalion, whose influence appears to reach further than expected. Yet the crude execution of the attack feels entirely unlike the calculating Anuirean lord. Other evidence suggests the involvement of the Lowhaven crime family, whose reputation for brutal retaliation makes them equally plausible suspects.
Journeying into Tresthalen, the heroes begin retracing the route taken by the mysterious raiders. Their investigation uncovers what no one expects: a hidden military encampment concealed deep within the wilderness. Hundreds of disciplined soldiers occupy the site beneath banners identical to Flynn's own. The force is eventually identified as the infamous Black Company, a formidable band of mercenaries deliberately masquerading as Flynn's troops in an effort to provoke civil war between the rival factions.
Armed with this discovery, the heroes seek an audience with Count Gregor Schadelfaust. Their reception is anything but cordial. A seasoned soldier with little patience for politics or prophecy, the count views Flynn with open suspicion. Matters deteriorate further when Flynn, considerably worse for drink, allows his temper to overcome his judgment, insulting the proud warrior before his own retainers. Enraged, Gregor challenges Flynn to settle the matter according to the oldest traditions of the nobility.
The duel that follows changes everything.
Despite his intoxication, Flynn emerges victorious through courage and determination rather than brute strength. Gregor, a man who respects deeds above words, acknowledges Flynn's skill and honor, offering him the respect due a worthy opponent. Yet while Flynn wins the count's confidence, his conduct throughout the day leaves a bitter impression upon his closest companions.
As the company makes camp that evening, the mood is subdued. Gregor Schadelfaust has become a potential ally, but cracks begin to appear within the fellowship itself. Difficult conversations await, and not every wound can be healed by victory in combat.
