The formal gathering thins behind you, leaving the river terrace washed in low enchanted lamplight. Distant music drifts through the open arches as nobles depart in murmuring clusters.
Rin remains beside you beneath the archway, composed and watchful. Near the balustrade, a lean young woman waits with a travel-worn pack, plain clothing, and the disciplined stillness of a warrior.
Emily
Prince Jericho. My name is Emily. I was raised by warrior monks, and I have come seeking a prince worthy of my service.
Emily approaches without bowing deeply, though her posture is respectful. Old scars mark her hands, and her gaze measures the terrace, the exits, and the people who remain.
Emily
I offer skill, loyalty, and a willingness to face dangers that polished courtiers prefer to discuss from safety.
Rin
A direct offer, made before witnesses have fully departed. Interesting. Tell us, Emily, what do you expect from the prince you serve?
Emily
Purpose, first. A place where my strength can protect something that deserves to endure. If Prince Jericho can provide that, I will prove the rest with action.
✓ Quest Accepted
Earn Emily's service
Director's notewhole tale
Jericho is using this speech as a chance to earn Emily's loyalty, but also to address potential political allies and rivals
Director's note
To truly make your mark on this world one must look for a prince to do it through. However, for a prince to leave their mark on the world they must build up their own holdings first. This is something that all people in the kingdom understand
“"Well then Emily it seems our goals are aligned." I smile as I feel the negotiation begin. "You have travelled far for the potential and opportunities I can give. My goal in Flores is to find allies and gather resources before I head out into the kingdom." "I have in mind one of the grand cities that saw itself ruined by the succession war, and it is my goal to go there and rebuild it to its former glory and lift its people out of poverty! To you I offer the position of head of my guard and to join me as I set sail for...." I lean towards Emily and whisper to her "Trent."”
SUCCESS (Legendary negotiation, rolled +1)
Jericho Font Helmsworth
Well then, Emily, it seems our goals are aligned. You have travelled far for the potential and opportunities I can give.
Jericho Font Helmsworth
My goal in Flores is to find allies and gather resources before I head out into the kingdom. I intend to rebuild one of the grand cities ruined by the succession war and lift its people from poverty.
Jericho Font Helmsworth
I offer you the position of head of my guard. Join me as I set sail for... Trent.
Jericho leans toward Emily and gives the city's name in a private whisper. The river wind carries it no farther than the space between them, while Rin watches the offer take shape.
Emily
Trent. A ruined city, a hard road, and a purpose worthy of strength. I accept the command of your guard, Prince Jericho, and I will join this expedition.
Rin
A bold foundation for a faction. Rebuilding Trent would give your banner more than wealth, Jericho. It would give desperate people a reason to defend it.
Emily straightens, her travel-worn stillness becoming a soldier's pledge. Beyond the terrace, Flores continues its glittering negotiations, unaware that your first commander has just chosen the road to Trent.
Rebuild Trent
Quest Complete
Earn Emily's service