"Snow drifts against the locked gates. The wind is heavy with ozone. The torchposts burn red — a color not seen since the border wars. And above the tower, the banner of Ardglass flies alone, stripped of both crown and council."

The party is stopped on the road by Ardglass scouts, who confiscate their writs and warn them: “You speak for the Princess, you speak against the Baroness. Choose your loyalty.”

Significant NPCs:

• Baroness Telda Grennel – A war-tested noble who sees the Suttmala as the death of true loyalty.

• Sir Elbon Vallance – Captain of the eastern gate, loyal to the Princess and trying to avoid bloodshed.

• Farah Windshaw – A courier carrying orders from Queen Eilessea — now imprisoned.

Rewards:

• A chain of office that marks the bearer as a lawful emissary of the realm.

• A hidden letter from the late King — meant only for Princess Elanor.

• Access to a secret military tunnel beneath Ardglass.

Lore Tie-Ins:

Ardglass is one of the true industrial centres in the Kingdom. Whoever holds it controls the trade — and the roads — to the heart of Endon.