Legendary - Preparations and Machinations

Wednesday, June 22, 1066 SE, continued

 With the King now on the island and having departed for the Heights, Captain Popov who is still standing on the balcony of the Anchor's Luck mentions to his friends Branna and Marigold he's surprised no troops have come off the warships at anchor in the bay. He's also curious that the King did not bring a bodyguard with him. Branna wonders if it is a double. Marigold suggests that perhaps some of the King's men are already here and were part of the crowd.

Captain Popov then asks a huge favor. He suggests that it would be extremely useful for a group of people to infiltrate as many of the balls and other royal events that will happen over the next few weeks to observe and gather as much information as possible. He's worried that conversations will take place that will shape the future of Katarina. Marigold suggest to Branna that the very effective and efficient network of pageboys throughout the city of Katarina could be put to good use for this mission. Most people would ignore the presence of pageboys, allowing the kids to hear conversations thought to be private. With most of the crowd now departed, Branna and Marigold head back to the Legendary.

At the same time, Mon climbs the stairs up to the Heights and nears the Cathedral. After becoming invisible, Mon enters the Cathedral. The long rows of pews are just about empty, with only a few elderly individuals praying during the noon service. An aged priest stands at the altar, conducting the blessing of the bread and wine. Using mage hand, Mon breaks a bottle on the altar, and uses the confusion the shattering creates to enter the administrative quarter of the Cathedral. Exploring the ground floor that is currently empty of activity, Mon quickly locates the Cardinal's own office. 

As he nears the closed door, he overhears a conversation taking place on the other side. He recognizes the voice of Tarasenko, one of the Cardinal's men, talking to someone clearly in charge. With the Cardinal currently welcoming the King on the dock, he deduces that it must be the Captain of the Cardinal's men. The conversation centers on current security arrangements and the religious court session that was supposed to occur today. 

Tarasenko departs, and Mon stealthily moves inside the largest office he has ever seen. Over a quarter of the administrative part of the Cathedral is occupied by an office featuring 25 feet high ceilings, large southern windows letting the sun in, a massive fireplace in the middle of the western wall, and an equally massive desk near the southern wall underneath a large cross. A small sitting area, featuring two couches, a small coffee table filled with daily newspapers, and a small cabinet with drinks and snacks are the only other furniture in this room, which echoes while the Captain paces as he's reading a file. After a few minutes, the Captain signs a few sheets of paper, closes the folder and, holding it under his arm, departs the room, locking the door behind him.

After examining the room, Mon places the listening device he acquired from Orest inside the fireplace, before shadowstepping outside into the small garden behind the Cardinal's office. He heads back to the Legendary.

Once she's back at the theater, Branna sends a message to the Marquess of Sidorov letting her know she will be over in a few hours with a replacement dress to substitute for the one Dhuka stole from her. She puts the finishes touches to the dress, then heads to Sidorov Manor. The Marquess tries on the dress, and Branna puts the final touches to ensure that it is the best fit. The dress looks amazing, but the Marquess is still sad at the loss of her other dress. During the conversation, Branna discovers that Lady Sirenko has left Sidorov Manor and has not returned. Instead, she went back to her own townhouse. According to the Marquess, Lady Sirenko was upset that the Marquess had pressed charges, and the Marquess admits she overreacted. She talked to her solicitor this morning, and asked him to withdraw the charge of stealing the dress. The religious court had agreed, but the charge of cross-dressing still stands. The Marquess is worried Lady Sirenko will never forgive her, and she misses her friend terribly.

Marigold is eating a late lunch in the Palace when Mon joins her. Marigold mentions her need for a spy network of pages to have them report to as many events attended by the King as possible. Mon agrees this is a good idea, and he will approach Nadie to make sure the page boys don't get in trouble.  He stops one of the pageboys passing by, and questions him on being a page boy, pretending he is preparing for a future role. Mon quickly realizes that around the island, all pages are boys, or at least pretend to be, and the overwhelming majority are orphans who appreciate the opportunity to earn a decent living and not live in the streets. Mon asks the page boy to meet with him and a few of his friends around 8 tonight to further discuss the role of being a page. He promises them fudge and cider.

Mon then switches the discussion to Dhuka, and he tells Marigold she should receive leniency because she was wearing a traditional page outfit. Marigold agrees, but the fact remains that Dhuka was still wearing a male outfit, which goes against the morals the Cardinal purports to enforce on Katarina. Marigold then wonders whether Dhuka actually owns girl's clothes, and she suggests to Mon they should ask Branna to make her a wardrobe the child would like to wear.

At dinner time, Pavel walks through the Palace's cafeteria, distributing a copy of the Katarina Chronicle, and mentions Sir Gregory has requested an all-staff meeting tomorrow morning at 10.  Not having heard about Dhuka, Branna and Marigold head to the Cathedral after packing clothes for the child and a few smoke bombs in case they need to make a quick exit. One of the guards at the Cathedral informs them that the religious court did not in fact meet today, but will be meeting tomorrow at 11 am.

While Mon performs in front of a half empty theater but with Captain Popov in attendance, Marigold and Branna meet with the page boys at the Palace. They report to Nadie, the head of Legendary security. Each organization hires its own pages, and the pages know who they can trust to deliver a message, and who is not dependable. Nadie does not tolerate pages who are poorly dressed, who are drunk, or who are late. There are three page work stations in the Legendary, and one at the Palace. At the Legendary, the statiosn are located in the administrative wing, off the main lobby, and backstage by the dressing rooms. Branna and Marigold explain to the boys what they are hoping to accomplish. the page boys agree to pass the word to other pages to report back information to the Anchor's Luck and the Captain, and if he's not available, to Ivan the bartender there.

Marigold tells them that if they see something, they need to say something, especially after what happened at Khoroshim  and at Sir Gregory's estate, villainous people might be out ready to sabotage open house or cause chaos. One of the page boys shows them the newspaper's listing of events in the next two weeks, thinking this is a fairly long list of possible targets. 

With the page boys gone, Branna wonders to Marigold if Dhuka had been drugged so she would fall asleep by the pond. Perhaps she had been set up.

After the play, Mon stops by Captain Popov, who thanks him for the free ticket, and tells him it was a lovely play. Mon agrees to meet with the Captain at the Anchor's Luck later in the night. After checking in with Marigold and Branna, Mon heads down the Slope, only to catch up to the Captain. Unfortunately, three of the Cardinal's men coming up the road stop the old Captain and shake him down for 6 coppers. After letting the old man go, the men continue up and stop Mon as well. Mon offers them a gold piece each, and the Cardinal's men thank his lordship for the mighty gift, and they depart laughing. As Mon heads down, he also notices that the two warships appear to have sailed away at high tide.

Catching up with Captain Popov, Mon tells him he planted a listening device inside his office. Accessing the device, Mon hears the Cardinal in discussion with another voice he does not recognizes. The Cardinal states they are running low on incense, and a new supply must be procured immediately. Mon suggests to Popov that perhaps the incense currently in stock could be replaced by a concoction that smells like skunk. Captain Popov eventually confesses that he had just been shaken down by the Cardinal's men, and Mon commiserates with him. That night, Mon loses 1 silver playing cards with the Captain and his mates.

 

Thursday, June 23, 1066 SE

In the morning, Branna and Mon travel to Lady Sirenko's townhouse. She welcomes them and offers them breakfast. She tells them that the only person aside from Dhuka that visited them on the day the dress disappeared was Ekatarina Vasyl, the widow of Lord Petr Vasyl, who was killed in the Khoroshim attack. The two of them talked about staffing issues for the upcoming parties and devised a plan to borrow each other's staff to ensure they had enough servants. Otherwise, no one else was there and had the opportunity to steal the dress.

Lady Sirenko explains that after the Marquess first mentioned the possibility to adopting Dhuka after getting to know her, she was taken aback and scared to lose the Marquess' affections. However, she came to appreciate Dhuka's wit and intelligence that afternoon, and saw the potential the girl had to be an excellent heir for the Marquess. To then have the dress go missing, and the Marquess press charges was too much for her, and she returned to her own dwelling. She misses the Marquess terribly, but she's still upset at her for overreacting.

Returning to the Legendary just in time, Mon notices that the warships are back in Spokoya Bay. They hear Sir Gregory introduce his friend, Sir Sergeii, who announces that the Second Crew will be presenting Masha and the Bear at the Grand Royal Opera in Sezja, and they will sail out on Tuesday, June 28. They will be in Sezja for three weeks. There will be no performance tonight, so that the theater can once again be cleaned and readied for opening night and the King's visit, as the King has asked to tour the various ateliers and work sites of the Legendary to gain a better understanding of how a successful theater works.

Rushing out of the Legendary after the meeting, Mon, Branna and Marigold cross Svetozar Plaza and join the large crowd on the square in front of the Cathedral. The Cardinal's men are there, forming an inside square currently empty of people. The city guard has also been deployed, keeping the peace on the edge of the square. At precisely 11, Dhuka is escorted out under heavy guard, and is brought inside the square. There, the charges are read, and the religious court's decision that Dhuka is guilty and will have her bare back lashed ten times for the offense of cross-dressing. 

But enforcement of the decision seems delayed. The King emerges from the Cathedral with his Chamberlain, but the Cardinal is notable in his absence. The executioner of the sentence several times uses his whip in preparation, but seems reluctant to inflict punishment. Then Marigold notices him looking up the north tower of the Cathedral. Thinking there's an assassin, she urges Mon to do something.

Turning himself invisible and using his shadowstep ability, Mon climbs to the top of the tower, only to see the Cardinal standing near the bells' opening, holding Anya in chains with a perfect view of the square below where a pitiful Dhuka is about to be whipped. Mon swings at the Cardinal ...

Legendary Campaign - Sir Paul Stal and the Wine Auction

Thursday, June 16, 1066 SE

Tasked by Sir Gregory to convince recluse Sir Paul Stal to attend the wine auction taking place tomorrow night at Sir Gregory's own estate, Curtain Calls Manor, Mon ponders questions he still has about the Island of Katarina. He can't quite remember what the island's ancient history is. He wonders whether the Firebreather Clan of dwarves survived the Riftforge War. If they did, could they be enticed to join effort against the Cardinal's plans? Eventually, the actor manages to drift into slumber.

In the morning, Mon, Branna, and Marigold meet in the lobby of the Palace as they head into the cafeteria for breakfast. The clerk at the front desk motions to Mon, and when the actor comes over he hands him a note from Sir Gregory letting him know his own private carriage, driven by Ony, will come and pick him up at 9 sharp. Sir Gregory advises that in light of the recent events in town, Mon should take a few friends with him for protection. Turning to his friends, Mon asks the girls if they would want to come with him. With their work more or less done for the upcoming production, both Branna and Marigold agree to talk to their bosses to see if they can take the afternoon off.

Branna sends a runner to Oskana, who replies that the elf certainly can absent herself. Marigold runs to the theater and finds Dusana, who also agrees to release her for the day. While in her workshop, Marigold takes a couple of ornate coat clasps made of Kat Steel, and, on her way out, she tells Pavel about her trip and asks him to send in the cavalry if they don't come back in time for the play. Returning to the Palace, Marigold mentions to Branna that she doesn't really have anything appropriate to wear for this visit. Branna takes the halfling to the costume department, and she quickly locates her a big fluffy dark cream colored skirt, with lots of burgundy, gold, and silver embroidery accents. Branna seletcs a wine-colored dress for herself.

As they ready themselves, Mon suggests they should bring cheese co complement the various wines. Branna agrees, and recommends additional items such as nuts and crackers. Marigold visits her local favorites and purchases a selection of cheeses and crackers, along with some nuts and fruits.

At 9 sharp, Ony pulls in front of the Legendary with Sir Gregory's personal carriage. Mon, Branna and Marigold board the carriage, and Ony begins the drive to Verdant Estate, which will take about an hour and a half.

At about half past 10, Marigold suddenly notices that a stone wall heavily covered by ivy, standing about 10 feet tall, borders the road and seems to stretch to the horizon. Ony tells them that this is where Verdant Estate begins, and it will take another three miles before they make it to the front gate of the estate.

A grand wrought-iron gate adorned with intricate vine patterns is open, revealing a finely graveled straight road leading to a manor about a mile inside the property. Meticulously manicured gardens, orchards, and vineyards border the road on either side, creating a symphony of emerald hues Vibrant flowers, exotic plants, and towering ancient trees create a tapestry of greenery not often seen on Katarina. Dozens of gardeners work on either side of the path, and Branna is surprised to see them immediately sprint on the path after their carriage passes by to smooth it and meticulously spread the fine gravel to return it to its pristine state.

As the carriage nears the manor house, Branna immediately realizes that it is a masterpiece of Katarina classical architecture, but shows several elements clearly inspired by elven designs. The manor's exterior walls seamlessly integrate with the surrounding flora, with ivy-covered towers and balconies adorned with hanging gardens, providing a sense of organic continuity from its natural surroundings. Clearly, House Stal has spared no expense in ensuring that the estate exudes an air of timeless elegance.

Another dozen or so gardeners or workers are present around the manor itself, maintaining the grounds and fixing the building, ensuring that the estate showcases perfection. Mon, Branna, and Marigold disembark the carriage. Ony tells them he will head back to the main road, and will return promptly at 1. If per chance they managed to convince Sir Paul before then, they can start walking down the estate's road.

Led by Mon, they climb up the five steps to a large covered stone porch. Mon knocks once, and the door immediately opens. A small elven-looking girl greets them. She introduces herself as Zoryany, Sir Paul's personal assistant, and beacons them inside. After introductions, Zoryany informs them she will take them to see Sir Paul. The luxurious entrance hall is adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of sylvan beauty, while sunlight streams through stained glass windows depicting the island's diverse ecosystems. As they head down a corridor on the ground floor, Marigold notices that the furnishings, crafted from the finest woods and adorned with intricate leaf motifs, reflect a commitment to both comfort and aesthetic refinement. Though they can still hear the workers outside, all three of them notice that they do not hear any sound of life coming from inside the manor.

Knocking on a door, Zoryany does not wait for an answer but opens the door and stands next to it, waving the small group inside a large library. Shelves filled with books line three walls, while the exterior wall is pierced by large windows that let a prodigal amount of light inside. Stretching over two stories, the library houses a collection that Mon estimates at over 25,000 volumes.

A man in his mid sixties, Sir Paul Stal is sitting in a comfortable chair in front of a fire, reading a book and smoking a pipe. Mon does a curtsy, followed by Branna and Marigold. Zoryany introduces them to Sir Paul, who tells them he assumes they are the messengers Sir Gregory sent to entice him to leave his estate. They reply that they indeed are, and Marigold requests a small table to put out the spread of food they brought to go along with some of the wines Mon will present. Sir Paul motions for them to step closer and sit on a comfortable canape across from him.

Zoryany fetches a small table, and Branna helps Marigold. set up the victuals. Zoryany returns with a crate of wine glasses, along with a bottle of wine. Mon correctly identifies the label as a 695 Starfall Chardonnay, a Chateau Durso vintage worth more than all of the bottles they have brought with them. Clearly, Sir Paul has plenty of money. Unfortunately, Mon realizes they forgot the corkscrew, so he cleverly attempts to cast mage hand to uncork the first bottle, but it does not work. There seems to be some sort of magic dampening field preventing his magic from working here. Seeing his struggle, Zoryany departs the room and quickly returns with a corkscrew.

Mon serves the first bottle, a Frostbloom Riesling. Sir Paul takes a sniff while rolling the wine in his glass. He then takes a sip, and moves it in his mouth for several seconds before finally swallowing it. Sir Paul takes another moment, before finding the wine acceptable. Next comes the Moonshadow Merlot. While Mon uncorks every bottle, Branna documents Sir Paul's reaction to each bottle of wine. 

As Sir Paul partakes of the cheese and crackers to cleanse his palate before the next bottle, an idea occurs to Mon, and he tells Marigold and Branna. Marigold sighs heavily. Mon thinks that wealthy patrons could purchase a wine cabinet that could be placed in a loge at the Legendary. This cabinet could keep wine chilled, and could be warded against poison and opening by those who do not have the passcode. Zoryany tells Mon that Sir Paul believes poison is not a woman's weapon, it is a winner's.

Mon suddenly eperiences a recollection that he has met Zoryany before. In a memory fragment, he was reclining in a chair or a bed, and as he looked at a doorway she quickly walked by in the hall. Zoryany, for her part, has already recognized that the two of them have at least two things in common ...

After all of the wines have been sampled, Mon then asks Sir Paul if Sir Gregory would have the honor of seeing him at the auction tomorrow. After a lengthy pause, Sir Paul replies that yes indeed, he will be attending, as he is quite amused by this whole performance. Mon hand delivers him the invitation to the wine auction. Mon experiences another memory, this one of opening a bottle of wine without magic.

Sir Paul thanks Mon as a reborn friend. Marigold perks up at this mention, and knows this has something to do with necromancy and death. Mon replies he's trying to learn who he used to be. Zoryany replies "aren't we all?" Mon, Branna, and Marigold are then escorted by Zoryany to the door, and left outside on the porch. With 45 minutes before Ony returns, they decide to walk the estate path back to the main road, earning dirty looks from the gardeners who rush back on the path to smooth it out.

Finding Ony at the front gate, they board the carriage, and return to Katarina, and Mon participates in that evening's performance. After the play, someone knocks on Mon's door. Sir Gregory enters, followed by Ony. Sir Gregory thanks Mon for a job well done, and asks him if he, Branna and Marigold could help out at the auction tomorrow. This would mean that Matviyko would take over for Mon as his understudy, but Sir Gregory could really use the help to cater and to keep an eye on the guests. Mon reminds the Legendary's owner that Matviyko was arrested yesterday and and still in jail at the Cathedral. Sir Gregory had forgotten, so he asks Ony to contact Sir Matviy, Sir Gregory's lawyer, and request that he head over to the Cathedral first thing in the morning. Mon suggests that Herald could cover his role tomorrow and improvise, trying to make it as funny as possible. Sir Gregory frowns, and declares this a particularly bad idea. Ony will arrange for the transportation of the wine first thing in the morning, and he will come back to the Palace to pick up Mon, Branna, and Marigold at 4.

Mon first checks the costume department, where he finds Branna working on the Marquess of Sidorov's outfits for the upcoming balls. He tells her about Sir Gregory's request, and Branna agrees to come with him. Returning to the Palace in a hurry, Mon stops by Marigold's room and knocks on the door. Joseph steps out of his room next door in his pajamas and sushes Mon, reminding him that some people work early in the morning. Marigold cracks her own door open, and Mon lets her know about Sir Gregory's request. Through the door he spots gold and jewels spread on her desk. Marigold warns him that he will wake up dead if any of these disappear. Mon chuckles and promises he saw nothing.

 

Friday, June 17, 1066 SE

As Mon, Branna and Marigold finish their breakfast, the Palace's front door opens, and Matviyko steps in with Sir Matviy who, after shaking his hand, exits and returns to his offices. The young man looks haggard and disheveled. Marigold heads to the kitchen and returns with a sandwich, while Mon consoles him. Casting charm person and zone of truth on Matviyko, they soon discover that Matviyko has been secretly dating Verushka, the Archduke's daughter. Mon knows this is about to be a problem, but it will need to wait for another day.

At 4, Ony pulls in front of the Palace with Sir Gregory's carriage, and everyone hops in and they head out to Curtain Calls Manor, Sir Gregory's residence. Unlike Verdant Estate, Curtain Calls Manor has the rundown chic quality, a building that has been loved but not well maintained. Just by looking around, it is clear that Sir Gregory's financial problems extend to his house as well. Ony asks them if they could help spruce up the space while he returns to the Palace to collect more employees. Soon, they are joined by Herald, who requests to help the quests but instead gets assigned to cover the gentlemen's bathrooms by the ballroom.

At 7 on the dot, Sir Paul enters the residence wearing a green doublet with mithril buttons. The doublet has plates inside the coat to protect him, an outstanding mithril cod piece, tall yet supple leather boots, poofy shoulders shirt, a cape, and a hat with a large green feather, a emerald encrusted rapier, and gloves that go up to his elbows. Accompanied by Zoryany, Sir Paul sits in the front row, to the murmurs of the other nobles already present in the room.

The auctioneer begins the bidding on the first lot, a bottle of Goblin's Blood, which the Marquess wins with a bid of 75 gold. The next lot, six bottles of Phoenix Blood, sells for an astonishing 1,000 gold pieces. 

A fine bottle of Goblin's Blood

 

Midway through the auction, one of the auctioneer's staff pulls out a small device from his pocket and readies a throw. Marigold spots the movement, and she warns Branna. Zoryany also noticed the action, and all three of them jump into action. Zoryany tackles the man and a small sphere falls out of his hand onto the floor. As the crowd of nobles panic, Mon protectively stands in front of the Marquess, sheltering her with his body. Marigold dives for the sphere and retrieves it just before it hits the floor, preventing it from exploding. Branna hits the man with a silver tray she was holding. Wishing to avoid adding more to the commotion, Zoryany and Branna drag the man outside, where they are soon followed by Sir Paul and Mon. Mon ties the man tightly, and as he does so he recognizes him. The would be assassin was Tarasenko, one of the Cardinal's men. Though the man had disguised himself as Captain Lafoy, Mon saw right through his disguise. Tarasenko was clearly hoping to pin this crime on the pirate captain!

Mon shatters Tarasenko's knee, causing the man's heart to stop beating. Casting lesser restoration, Mon restarts his heart. A disheveled Sir Gregory races to them outside the manor house. Mon inquires if the Archduke had been invited, and Sir Gregory replies that yes, he had, but he had sent his regrets at the last minute.

Meanwhile, back inside Curtain Calls Manor, amid the pandemonium spreading through the ballroom, Marigold successfully places the sphere down. She recognizes it as a similar weapon used at Khoroshim, a weapon called the aetherburst crystal. Carefully, Marigold tinkers with it until she's able to disarm it.

Branna tells Sir Gregory he really need to make a statement to explain what just happened. Sir Gregory does so, managing to calm the crowd, and the wine auction resumes. Mon suggests they take Tarasenko to the real Captain Lafoy. Marigold reasons with him that they need to turn him over to Dima and the city guard instead.

Led by Dima, a patrol of city guards arrive at Curtain Calls Manor, and they take custody of a maligned Tarasenko. Marigold hands the aetherburst crystal to Dima, and she explains to him how the weapon works and her suspicions that the Cardinal may be behind the attack. When asked who she thought Tarasenko's target was, Marigold speculates that it looks like he was aiming his bomb at Sir Paul.

In the chaos that follows the end of the evening, the Marquess invites Mon over tomorrow, hoping to thank him once again for saving her life.

Saturday, June 18, 1066 SE

The auction generated 13,742 gold pieces, and a note is left for Mon at the Palace reception that Sir Gregory has deposited 274 gold pieces on an account in Mon's name at the Katarina Financial Trust. with a note from Sir Gregory that he is indebted to him for this amazing return. Sir Gregory also indicates he will talk to his lawyer on the possibility of an ownership share in the Legendary with Mon. 

Marigold arranges the transport of the wines Sir Paul acquired yesterday during the auction, and she heads out with Ony to deliver them to Verdant Estate. Greeted by Zoryany, Marigold mentions the qualities of the aetherburst crystal to her, and she's concerned that Sir Paul was the target of the attack. She mentions that she and Zoryany have a vested interest in figuring out what is happening.

Looking to thank Sir Gregory, Mon learns that the man attends the horse races on Saturdays. Mon heads to Thunderhoof Downs to find the Legendary owner. Finding the theater owner dejected after losing another bet, Mon mentions that Sir Paul suggested the idea of offering wine bars in every lodges at the Legendary. Owners of theater lodges could add a secure box to their lodge, and keep their wine and other drinks safely inside.

He then looks for the Marquess, to see if she knows how to pick a winner. She has her own private booth, and she is sitting there with Lady Sirenko, enjoying the races. After greeting both of them, Mon sits down and places a small bet on the next race. Talking with the Marquess, Mon soon discovers that  she clearly knows horses, their jockeys, their owners, and how each horse relate to each other. Though she no longer own horses, she has invested in several race horses, hoping to regain some of the glory House Sidorov once enjoyed. And unlike Sir Gregory, the Marquess of Sidorov seems to be winning more often than not ...

Legendary Campaign - The Archduke's Daughter Visits the Legendary

Wednesday, June 15, 1066 SE

When Marigold, Branna and Mon come down to breakfast, they hear loud arguments coming from the cafeteria of the Palace. Tempers seem to be running high, and they soon discover why. Whereas the Opera, the Fantastic and their own Legendary closed in solidarity with the victims of bombing of Khoroshim, the Starlight remained open and put on a performance last night. It is a theatrical tradition that in times of troubles, all four theaters close to show solidarity. This time, though the attendance was sparse, the Legendary's old timers, along with many of its newer staff, are upset that the Starlight profited from a night where all other forms of entertainment were closed. To back up their outrage, Mon is handed a copy of today's Katarina Chronicle, one of the three daily newspaper in the city of Katarina.

Page 1 of the Katarina Chronicle for Wednesday, June 15

 

Mon understands the outrage and the break in protocol, but his interest lands on the dead identified on page five of the Katarina Chronicle.

Page 5 of the Katarina Chronicle for Wednesday, June 15

.

Marigold suggests that the three theaters should take out a common advertisement in the Katarina Chronicle to thank the residents of Katarina for their understanding for their closing last night. She also suggests that they should plan some sort of benefit fundraiser. Branna mentions that perhaps they should talk to Lena in marketing and Joseph in accounting to see what can be done.

Glancing up from reading the newspaper, Mon proposes that the Legendary could start a new tradition, to have an empty seat in the theater, and use a permanent ghost light candle in honor of those who could no longer be here. With a permanent light spell, the light would never go out. This could also be mentioned in the advertisement. The Legendary could also hold four moments of silence to acknowledge the victims.

Looking at the newspaper in Mon's hand, Marigold wonders if any of the dead nobles had any financial difficulties. The article does not seem to imply that, but could there be more to this attack than some random blow against the island's nobility? Branna asks her friends if they know who owns Khoroshim? No one seems to know. Branna then asks if the employees at Khoroshim are generally safe. Did they work elsewhere or even here in the Palace? Mon gets up from the table, goes through the line and grabs his food before returning and sitting at the table. 

Pavel enters the cafeteria, and after a quick visit of every table, Pavel also takes food, and then joins Mon, Branna, and Marigold at the table, carrying four full plates filled with hearty breakfast items. Pavel finds it despicable that the Starlight was opened last night, but he's not surprised that the Nazar family, owners of the Starlight, would want to upstage Sir Gregory Tsaplin, as the two theater owners have been estranged for decades. Marigold asks Pavel if he knows who owns the Katarina Chronicle. Pavel replies that the newspaper is owned by the Anton family, and the current publisher is Sir Dmytro Anton. With a a populist and sensationalist bent, Pavel is not surprised that the newspaper seeks to generate controversies, which drive circulation and advertising. The carpenter also points out that the Katarina Chronicle seems to imply that only four people died, but he happens to know for a fact that at least two staff members were also killed during the bombing.

Pavel then asks Mon to describe what happened yesterday at Khoroshim. Mon retells his story, pointing out that he's pretty sure Luba saw the person or people who launched the attack against the restaurant. By this time, Pavel has entirely emptied his plates, and, looking at the clock, announces that it's time for him to leave as they're working on a set today.

Branna then turns her attention to Joseph , who just joined the table with his own food. She asks him how the wine auction is going. Joseph is puzzled. He has not heard of this auction, nor has anyone else in accounting that he is aware of. Arriving later than usual, Lena joins the table just in time for Branna to ask her if marketing is preparing any promotional material for the auction. Lena confesses that marketing does not know anything about it either, but she will ask questions. Both Lena and Joseph are surprised that such a revenue generating event would not be better promoted. Marigold too is surprised that Sir Gregory has not put the resources of the marketing department behind this auction.  

Mon opens up his jacket and hands a bottle of Frostbloom Riesling to Joseph and another one to Lena, telling them this is a sample of the wines that will be sold at Sir Gregory's auction. Both of them are very thankful. 

Frostbloom Riesling

A pair of arms drape themselves around Mon's shoulders, and the sickly sweet voice of Herald reaches his ears when the cad points out that he too would very much enjoy a bottle of wine. Mon refuses to give him one, and Herald, bitterly disappointed, leaves the cafeteria. Joseph mentions his dislike for Herald, a sentiment shared by Mon, Branna and Marigold. Mon shares that Herald was recently sick, so Joseph suggests that perhaps Herald could be relocated to the worst room in the Palace. Mon heartily agrees with this idea, and Joseph states he will mention it to the hotel management. Branna tells Joseph to let the staff know they can use the excuse that the room must now be decontaminated.

While Branna and Marigold return to the Legendary to begin their shift, Mon heads out to Sidorov Manor with four wine bottles to offer to the Marquess of Sidorov. The walk there is uneventful, and Mon soon finds himself ringing the doorbell. Olehiv, the Marquess's butler, answers the door and invites Mon in. He tells the actor that the Marquess is not yet ready for visitors following the events that took place at Khoroshim yesterday, but she might make an exception for Mon. Mon tells Olehiv that unfortunately his time is very limited due to his appointment with Verushka, the Archduke's eldest daughter, and the Marquess should rest. He gives the wine bottles to the butler, and lets him know to tell the Marquess there will be plenty more of these at the auction Friday night.

Noticing that the butler had a tea set out and ready to pour, Mon mixes several blends of herbs into the tea, and asks Olehiv to take a sip. Olehiv looks dubious, but acknowledges after his first sip that this is fine tea indeed, and agrees to deliver it to the Marquess. Mon seems himself out, and on the way back to the Legendary he shadow steps part of the way.

Meanwhile, Branna's work is interrupted when Luba rushes inside the costume workshop in a panic. Mon was supposed to help her get their lunch date with Verushka ready, and he's nowhere to be found. With everything that happened yesterday at Khoroshim, and now this, Luba is freaking out. Verushka is scheduled to arrive in less than half an hour, and nothing is ready! Taking pity on the actress, Branna finds Marigold, and the three of them come up with a plan. Marigold grabs a prop basket, and she heads out to the nearest deli to purchase charcuteries. She also stops at a small corner restaurant and acquires light refreshments. Branna and Luba take a beautiful prop table and matching chairs from the furniture props closet, and take them to the center aisle of the theater. Branna places a pretty table cloth, then sets candles, a vase of flowers, silverware, and dishes.

Having returned from Sidorov Manor, Mon enters the theater and comes inside the performance space. Spotting him, Luba starts complaining to him that he's dropped the ball and left her in a lurch. Mon casts charm person on Luba, and successfully calms her down. He tells her everything looks fantastic, and they are more than ready to welcome Verushka. Luba tells him she's still feeling the stress of yesterday, and this is probably not going to go well. She tells him she saw the man who threw the device in the window of Khoroshim, and she had nightmares about it last night. The man was looking right at her, and seemed to want to hurt her. Mon recommends she talks with the Legendary's artists to get a poster made of the guy's face, so that this could be handed over to the city guard. Luba agrees to do so right after their appointment with Verushka.

A page boy runs inside the performance room to advise Mon and Luba that the Archduke's carriage has arrived. Mon, Luba, Branna and Marigold rush to the lobby just in time to see several city guards enter the lobby while a dozen more stand around the carriage. Following the attack on Khoroshim, it appears that the guards are taking no risk with the safety of the Archduke's daughter. Verushka disembarks from the carriage, followed by a very stern looking Dima, captain of the city guard. Verushka gleefully hugs Luba and gives Mon her hand for him to kiss. She tells them that due to yesterday's events, Dima will shadow her during their luncheon.

Mon tells them that the agenda for today is to see a working theater by taking a tour of the facilities, then eat while they watch the understudy's rehearsal of General Toptigin Cheats Death. As they walk around several of the Legendary workshops, Verushka expresses her admiration at the abilities of their craftspersons to create the illusions that make each play so unique. Mon attempts to mention Matviyko several times, but Verushka steers the conversation in different directions. She is very cognizant of many of the tasks needed to successfully run the Legendary, and she asks several knowledgeable questions of the folks she meets.

In passing, Verushka congratulates Mon and the others on the Legendary's upcoming tour to Sezja to perform Masha and the Bear. This comes as news to everyone, so Branna asks a follow-up question on what Verushka. She tells them she overheard her father talking with Sir Gregory three days ago. Sir Gregory told him that Sir Sergeii had reached out to him last week, indicating there was an opportunity to bring Masha and the Bear to the Grand Royal Opera, the premier theater in the capital in six weeks. Sir Gregory mused this was an excellent opportunity to showcase the strength of the Legendary's cast to the people of Sezja, and would prove to be lucrative as well.

They sit down at the dinner table Branna set for them, and as they dig in the food Marigold purchased, the understudies begin perfoming General Toptigin Cheats Death. The food is delicious, and Verushka is thoroughly entertained. During the meal, Mon doesn't eat much, and Dima notices. As Matviyko comes on stage for the first time, Mon keenly observes Verushka's reaction, but he does not notice anything unusual. 

Admiring the costumes, Verushka suggests that she and her friends would love to wear such extravagant and well crafted outfits. She muses that a masked ball held at the Legendary, where the local youth could rent a costume from the theater's extensive collection, would be an amazing and very well sought after opportunity. Marigold thinks this is an excellent idea, and Luba agrees. Marigold suggest that this could indeed be a very popular opportunity to bring young people back to the theater, and Verushka nods vigorously. All of her friends would enjoy such an event!

As the third act begins, the performance is rudely interrupted by the intrusion of several of the Cardinal's men, who carry a warrant for Matviyko's arrest, signed by the Cardinal himself. Matviyko is suspected of being responsible for the attack against Khoroshim yesterday, and they are under order to arrest him and bring him back to the Cathedral. Despite arguments that Matviyko was here rehearsing yesterday, the Cardinal's men are adamant they must take him in for questioning. If indeed Matviyko is innocent, he surely will be soon released.

Verushka implores Dima to intervene, but the captain acknowledges that the Cardinal's men have a valid warrant, and that Matviyko must go with them. Mon suddenly remembers a statement he made to one of the Cardinal's men yesterday, and assumes that this is the reason Matviyko is being hauled away. As Mon's understudy is being escorted by the guards, Matviyko yells "Verushka, do something!" 

With the mood now broken, Dima announces that it is probably safest for the Archduke's daughter to return home, and he sends for the carriage. Back in the lobby, one of his men informs him that there were twelve of the Cardinal's men here for Matviyko's arrest, which seems to be a wasteful use of resources. Unless, Dima interjects, they were trying to make a point, knowing that Verushka was here. The carriage soon arrives, and Dima and a much distraught Verushka depart.  

As he's standing in the lobby watching the carriage leave, Mon receives a message from Sir Gregory that he would like to meet with the actor at his earliest convenience. Luba decides she will go visit the artists, to see if they can draw the portrait of the man who attacked Khoroshim. Mon heads to the third floor and the corporate suite, where he is greeted by Ony, who ushers him into the office of the Legendary's owner. 

There, Sir Gregory apologizes for the abrupt end to Verushka's visit, but, armed with a warrant as they were, there is nothing he could do to keep them outside. Mon mentions Verushka's idea of a masked ball, and Sir Gregory is immediately intrigued. Perhaps they could do a differently themed ball once a quarter. Verushka could be approached, and she could be asked to serve as the host for the first one, which would guarantee its success. They agree that the name should be Legendary Masquerade, and they come to terms for a split of the profits, with Mon and Marigold each collecting 5%.

Sir Gregory then comes to his reason for meeting with Mon. He would like the actor to head to Verdant Estate, the ancestral home of House Stal, tomorrow morning, and offer its resident, Sir Paul Stal, a few samples to entice him to attend the wine auction that will take place on Friday. The man is a known recluse, but Sir Gregory thinks that Mon is more than able to convince him to attend. And with Sir Paul in attendance, most of the other nobles on Katarina will want to participate. Sir Gregory also suggests Mon should take a few friends with him to carry the wine bottles inside. Mon is to meet Sir Gregory's carriage tomorrow morning at 9 sharp, and Ony will drive him and his friends there.

As he exits Sir Gregory's office, Mon plans on moving the wine bottles he wants to kpee for himself ot a more secure location. Ony remarks that Sir Stal has not left his estate in over 13 years, and that Mon's task will be a hard one indeed.

As Mon descends the stairs to the second floor, he sees Luba sitting in one of the artists' studio, talking animatedly. Passing by, he notices that the portrait looks an awful lot like Captain Lafoy ...

Returning to the costumes workshop, Mon meets with Branna and talks about his task of delivering a personal invitation to Sir Stal, and he requests a costume that would make him look more aristocratic. Branna finds him the perfect costume, and after he gets measured and alterations are planned, he asks her if she would be willing to come with him tomorrow. Branna agrees. Mon then meets with Marigold and asks for a basket to transport his bottles of wine. He also asks her if she would join him tomorrow, and she agrees. Finally, Mon tells Lena about his trip to see Sir Stal, and she wishes him luck, considering the man is literally an hermit.

With his errands done, Mon prepares for tonight's performance, while planning ahead to tomorrow's meeting with Sir Stal...

Legendary Campaign - Mon's Deals

Friday, June 10, 1066 SE

With the arrival of the King of Sezja in a few weeks, the Legendary and its people have been busy. Over the last week, a friend system has been implemented when actors and staff travel to and from the Legendary. The personnel has been asked to wear only modest clothing, to avoid drawing attention from the Cardinal and his men. However, people have noticed that they have not been seen on the streets this last week. Word on the street from local employees of the Cathedral is that the men are preparing for the King's arrival by analyzing possible situations, determining some of the risks, and preparing countermeasures. Darker tongues whisper that they are instead planning a secret mission. The most outlandish scenario concerns a possible plot to arrest the Archduke and his family and transfer Katarina's rule to the Cardinal or a close representative of the King.

During the understudy rehearsal in the afternoon, Luba and Mon talk about Matviyko. Mon's new understudy has learned his lines very quickly, and he appears to be quite the gifted actor. In fact, he appears too good for someone who supposedly has no acting experience. Mon suggests that perhaps Matviyko is a plant, sent there to spy on the Legendary and its crew for the Cardinal or some other nebulous power. Luba agrees that it is possible, but unless and until Matviyko made a move, there would be no way of telling for sure. Mon ponders whether a spell could help.

Mon also mentions to Luba that he noticed Verushka had a strange reaction when she first met Matviyko. She seems to know who he is. Perhaps, Mon muses aloud, they could invite Verushka, the Archduke's eldest daughter, to the Legendary for a tea party and private rehearsal, and then bring the subject of Matviyko. Verushka might be willing to explain what she knows about the new actor. Luba enthusiastically supports the idea, and she agrees to send an invitation to the Archduke's daughter.

Sunday, June 12, 1066 SE

Luba meets Mon before the afternoon performance of General Toptigin Cheats Death, and she informs him that Verushka replied back, and she loves the idea. The first daughter suggested either Tuesday or Wednesday as dates, as her parents will be at the Winter Palace to prepare it in case the King requests use of the Palace in Katarina. Mon suggests that Wednesday would probably be better. Luba agrees, and rushes to send Verushka a reply.

 

Monday, June 13, 1066 SE

Katarina is in full cleaning and renovating mode. The Archduke has ordered that every building in town receive a fresh coat of paint and that repairs be done to present its best face to the royal crowd as the King's arrival nears.

Early that morning, Mon is stopped at the front desk by the Palace's clerk on duty, who advises him that the doctor has been here and found that Herald's isolation could now conclude, as the cad is no longer contagious. As a result, Mon has received permission from the doctor to return to his room. Mon inquires with the clerk if he can stay in his single room for now. The clerk confirms that he can for the next week or so, but that new crew members are coming in to help support the staff during the King's presence, and all the rooms will be occupied. 

Mon thinks that perhaps he could build himself a suite in some of the unused space in the Legendary. This space could then be converted to deluxe suites that some of the wealthier members of the cast or crew could rent, at rates cheaper than those for a town apartment, and which would provide them with better security since they would remain on campus. Thinking this is a good idea, Mon decides he will present this idea to Sir Gregory today, as the owner of the Legendary requested a meeting with him at the 10th hour.

Over breakfast, Mon, Marigold and Branna discuss the current situation and examine several possibilities. Perhaps Duhka could infiltrate the Cathedral and gather more information. She could join the kitchen staff and learn how many men are training and what they are actually training for. Marigold postulates that as long as she gets in, gathers information, gets out and doesn't come back, she should be relatively safe. No decision is made on whether this idea should be broached to the precocious ghost resident of the Legendary.

On the way out of the Palace, the clerk on duty gives Marigold a letter they just received for her. In a wrinkled envelope, she finds an invitation written in a halting and trembling hand from Captain Popov, inviting her and her friends on a boat trip out to sea around Katarina. He has the abalone she requested, and he would like to show them something he discovered.

While Marigold and Branna return to work in the Legendary's backstage, Mon heads to the head office on the fourth floor of the front building for his meeting with Sir Gregory. Arriving at 9:45, Mon is greeted by Ony, Sir Gregory's manservant, who explains that Sir Gregory has not yet arrived, but he should be here shortly. He offers Mon some pastries and tea, listing seventeen different brands of teas. Mon politely asks what the brands are, and Ony is more than pleased to list them all as he hands a small jar of tea to the actor at a time:

1. Celestial Elixir, an ethereal and light blend of moonlight-infused chamomile and starflower petals, creating a soothing, dreamy infusion generally enjoyed before bed but sometimes consumed in the daytime.
2. Dragonfire Chai, a fiery and robust blend of black tea, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes, offering a spicy kick reminiscent of dragon breath. Considered by many to be a great picker upper.
3. Enchanted Grove, a crisp and refreshing tea from the Sezjan mainland composed of fresh green tea leaves and hints of forest berries, invoking the serene essence of enchanted woodlands.
4. Mermaid Serenade, a smooth and graceful fusion of black tea and tropical fruits, accompanied by a subtle hint of ocean mist, as if serenaded by mermaids.
5. Phoenix Rising Herbal Blend, a full-bodied herbal infusion of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, reminiscent of a phoenix's fiery rebirth.
6. Faerie Kiss Floral Infusion, a delicate and airy blend of rose petals, lavender, and elderflower, crafting a floral symphony inspired by the gentle touch of faerie kisses.
7. Kraken's Embrace, a rich and bold blend of black tea leaves, infused with hints of sea salt and blackcurrant, capturing the essence of the deep sea, and much favored by sailors in Low Town.
8. Unicorn White Tea, a tranquil blend of white tea with notes of apricot and elderflower, evoking the feeling of contentedness that comes from meeting a unicorn. Not that anyone has ever met a unicorn, but at least that's what they say happens when you meet a unicorn.
9. Starfall Chamomile, a calm and soothing chamomile infusion with hints of honey and vanilla, reminiscent of a starry night's peaceful descent.
10. Pirate's Gold Honeybush, a medium-bodied and earthy honeybush tea infused with wildflower honey, golden raisins, and a touch of caramel, capturing the essence of pirate treasures.
11. Gryphon's Graceful Green, a crisp and vibrantly refreshing green tea blended with hints of lemongrass and ginger, embodying the graceful spirit of the gryphon.
12. Enigma Elixir, a mysterious and complex blend of black tea, anise, and blackberries, creating a taste that hints at ancient secrets. Rumored to be drunk by conspirators before swearing allegiance to their dastardly plots.
13. Moonlit Meadows White Peony, a gentle white peony tea with subtle notes of wildflower honey and a touch of moonlit magic, evoking the serenity of moonlit meadows.
14. Sweet Dream, a velvety and soothing blend infused with creamy vanilla and the essence of rainbow berries, creating a dreamy concoction.
15. Phoenix Feather Mint Infusion, a refreshing infusion of peppermint and spearmint leaves, with a subtle undertone of lemon zest, reminiscent of a phoenix's plumage.
16. Leprechaun's Lucky Chai, a spicy and full-bodied chai blend with cardamom, ginger, and cloves, enhanced with a touch of Katarina whiskey, promising a dash of luck with each sip.
17. Enchanted Forest Berry Black Tea, a bold and fruity black tea infused with forest berries, wild blackberries, and a hint of enchanted forest magic, taking the drinker on a mystical journey through the woods with every cup.
    

Inspired by all of these choices, which is a change from the plain black tea served at the Palace, Mon assembles a custom blend, and offers a cup to Ony, who is immediately taken by the flavorful drink and by its smooth body. Ony suggests that Mon should present this new blend of tea to Sir Gregory, as it could become the Legendary's own house blend, generating new sales in the theater's cafe and in its gift shop. Mon puts a dab of alcohol in Ony's cup. Dubious, Ony has a sip, and reports that it tastes fine, but that as Sir Gregory does not drink, and in fact has an aversion to alcohol, perhaps Mon should refrain from presenting that particular combination to Sir Gregory.

Finally, about 10 minutes past 10, Sir Gregory comes in, hat askance, hair messed up, mustache not properly twirled. He apologizes profusely to Mon, and then requests that Ony join him in his office. Even with the door closed, Mon is able to overhear part of the conversation. It seems that money is tighter than even Mon suspected, and Sir Gregory has unkind words about an individual who is evidently trying to foreclose on the Legendary. The situation must be dire indeed for Sir Gregory to be this out of sorts!

Finally summoned to Sir Gregory's office, Mon enters a large room with a large desk and a plush chair in one corner. The desk is devoid of papers, mementos, or even of any object. Four comfortable leather couches are placed in the opposite corner surrounding a coffee table filled with newspapers reviewing the most recent play. The walls are covered with posters, advertisements, and portraits of famous actors. A door in the back of the room leads to a small bathroom. A cart filled with more teas and pastries stands near the main door. Sir Gregory directs Mon to one of the couches, and the theater owner sits on the closest couch to Mon. He presents him with a small gift placed in a box wrapped in powdered blue paper with a white ribbon.

Mon then proceeds to present two ideas to Sir Gregory. He explains how he discovered a cache of wine in an abandoned cellar, and some of this wine is rare and pricey. He suggests that a wine auction could be held, raising funds for the Legendary. Sir Gregory heartily agrees, and proposes a finder's fee of 20% for Mon. Mon then presents his idea of the deluxe suites. The suites would be single, so more valuable staff members would not need to share. Sir Gregory offers him another 20% from profits made on the suite, but Mon instead suggests that he could receive one of the suites, so that he does not have to stay with Herald as the cad is back. Sir Gregory finds the idea attractive, but wonders who would clean these suites. Mon suggests that each suite would contain enough space to have a small room for either a maid or a manservant to stay with the suite's occupant. Sir Gregory agrees this is a good idea. He tells Ony to notify Pavel and begin construction at once, after consultation with Mon and suitable spaces being found. Mon noticed that Ony's eyebrow raised at the mention of Herald's return.

Mon then presents his idea for a blended tea. Ony returns with two cups of tea, perfectly heated. Sir Gregory takes a sip and is immediately taken. He agrees this is a brilliant idea, and offers Mon another 20% of the profits. Sir Gregory will provide the teas for the blend, and Mon will mix them together. Now, all they need is a catchy name.

With business now concluded, Mon opens Sir Gregory's present. It is a pair of silver cufflinks in the shape of a seashell. These cufflinks are Shadowcloak cufflinks. The wearer can activate them to become invisible for 10 +1d10 minutes. The wearer can also use the cufflinks up to five times a day to teleport up to 60 feet through shadows. However, each cufflink will only work if both cufflinks are worn by the same person. Mon casually mentions that the cufflinks would also have been very noticeable had they been shaped like an oak leaf, but the remark does not seem to mean anything to Sir Gregory.

Shadowcloak cufflinks

Just as Mon is about to ask Sir Gregory another question about the Oak, the loud voice of the Marquess of Sidorov carries from the hallway into the reception area. Sir Gregory quickly gets up, and politely asks Mon to escort the Marquess away as he hides in his bathroom. Mon steps out of the office, and informs the Marquess that Sir Gregory just left, but he has a brilliant idea for her she might be interested in hearing. Taking her by the arm, Mon explains to her the idea of the wine auction and of the tea, and the Marquess is impressed and requests that Mon inform her of the most precious wine before it goes to auction, as she would like to purchase it to impress the King, as surely his Majesty will come to Sidorov Manor for an evening of great food and entertainment.

After revealing some tidy gossip about Kisa's kidnapping, Mon promises to have lunch tomorrow with the Marquess and Luba at Khoroshim at noon to tell the Marquess all about it, as she cannot wait to hear the story of the attempted kidnapping. With the Marquess now safely out of the Legendary, Mon gives one of the pageboys some silver to purchase a large bouquet of flowers and send it to Luba with an apologies explaining tomorrow's engagement. He tells the pageboy that half of the flowers should be red roses, half other flowers, which should suitably confuse Luba as to the meaning behind the flowers.

Looking for Pavel, Mon learns that the head carpenter traveled to Low Town to attend a wood auction for exotic wood for the Legendary's workroom. Returning to his room to get ready for the afternoon's escape on Captain Popov's boat, Mon runs into Herald, and manages to convince the cad to seek work in the Cathedral to gather information on an upcoming role Mon is writing. In exchange for 7 gold, Herald reluctantly agrees to Mon's proposal.

At the wood auction, Mon discovers that Pavel has already left after purchasing wood. The auctioneer is curious, however, as Pavel paid with a promissory note, which is unusual as the Legendary usually pays cash for its wood purchases.

Mon finally arrives at the dock where Captain Popov's Tall Tale is anchored. Marigold and Branna, who were already here, have been waiting for an hour, and Captain Popov is concerned they will miss the tide. Marigold brought a basket filled with sandwiches. As they sail out of the fjord, they talk about Matviyko, and Popov mentions that they could bring him down to the Anchor's Luck for some libations and interrogation. 

Popov captains his boat to the northwest corner of Katarina. While diving for abalone, he tells them,, he found an underwater tunnel that leads to a dry cave system, something Mon had previously mentioned he was looking for. He didn't go too far into the cave, as he didn't have a good source of light, and was worried something could happen and no one would know he was here. But now that they are here, he would like to explore it with them. Popov has two necklaces, the Rainwarden Necklaces, and he lets Marigold and Branna each borrow one of them. As the ship gets closer to the northwestern cliffs of Katarina, Popov regales them with the tale of his finding these necklaces.

Once upon a time, when the city of Katarina was nothing but a quaint village nestled on the edge of a cliff at the end of afjord, lived two twin sisters named Elena and Darina. Daughters of a rich steel merchant, the two were known throughout the island of Katarina not only for their beauty but also for their peculiar aversion to getting wet. Rainy days, which were as common then as they are now, were their worst nightmares, as they detested the feeling of water soaking through their hair and dresses, leaving them cold, uncomfortable, and wet.

One day, as a storm loomed on the horizon, Elara and Darina decided they had had enough. They were determined to find a way to stay dry no matter the weather. So, they sought the help of an enigmatic jeweler named Halina, renowned for her mystical creations marrying gold and magic.

The sisters explained their predicament to Celestia, who nodded thoughtfully, before agreeing to craft the twins a matching pair of necklaces that would protect them from the rain. After several weeks of laborious work, Celestia presented them with two exquisite gold necklaces, each adorned with a shimmering sapphire pendant. The gemstones were enchanted with a powerful spell, promising to keep their wearers perpetually dry, no matter how torrential the downpour.

Elated, Elara and Darina wore their new necklaces everywhere, reveling in the newfound freedom to enjoy the outdoors without fear of wet dresses and frizzy hair. They would stroll through the village on rainy days, heads held high, and dresses as pristine as a sunny morning, as people admired their ability to stay dry.

One sunny morning, the sisters were invited by their father to embark on a grand adventure—a sailing expedition tto the mainland to deliver a load of finely forged Kat steel. Excited by the prospect of discovery and adventure, the twins eagerly accepted their father's invitation, packing their finest dresses and donning their precious necklaces before heading out to sea.

As the ship set sail, the sun bathed the deck in golden light. Traveling through the fjord was breathtaking, and the sisters marveled at the vastness of the ocean as the ship emerged from its sheltered passage. However, as they ventured farther from the safety of their village, a tempestuous storm brewed on the horizon and moved quickly across the sky.

Soon, waves roared and lightning danced across the firmament as thunder made it nearly impossible for the twins to hear each other. The once-stalwart ship was tossed like a mere twig upon the furious sea. Panic surged through the passengers and crew as they struggled against the mighty storm.

Amid the chaos, Elara and Darina clung to each other, their necklaces glowing with a protective aura. At last, the ship could bear no more punishment, and it was sundered into splinters. Unfortunately, the two sisters did not know how to swim, and as the wreck began to sink, the sisters descended with it, their necklaces keeping them impeccably dry even in the heart of the raging storm.  The debris, along with the passengers and crew finally came to rest on the ocean floor, a silent graveyard of splintered wood and lost dreams. The once-bustling vessel had become a ghostly reef, and the storm had claimed the lives of everyone on board. 

Many years later, a lone sailor, while exploring the depths for abalone, chanced upon the sunken ship and the lifeless forms of the sisters. To his astonishment, he discovered them as if they had just been resting on the ocean's floor, with their dresses as dry as if they were attending a royal ball. He carefully brought each of them back to the surface, still enchanted by the sisters' beauty and the mystery of their perfectly dry attire.

Pondering how this could be, he noticed the necklaces and the glowing light reflected off the saphire. Removing the necklace from Elena's lifeless form, the sailor found himself completely dry, as if he had not just been dozens of feet under the waves. The sailor returned the bodies to Katarina, where they were buried in their fancy dresses in the Whispering Waves cemetery, a reminder that sometimes, magic could keep them and dry, but could not keep them safe.

As he concludes his tale, the ship anchors right above the underwater tunnel's entrance ...