=== STATUS ===
DAY REMAINING: 30/30
GOLD: 500 gp
CITY UNREST: 25%
COUNCIL VOTES FOR YOU: [Your Name]
SECRETS KNOWN: None
The heavy oak doors of the High Council Chamber groan shut, sealing out the damp chill of Astora, but not the noise. From far below the palace heights, the rhythmic chanting of the 'Iron Scythe' rebels drifts through the stained glass—a low, thrumming reminder of the hunger in the streets.
You sit at the foot of the crescent table. Around you sit the four masters of the realm: Archmage Vaelen, tracing glowing runes on the tabletop; Overseer Thrum, counting ledgers with a scowl; Matriarch Sela, watching you through half-lidded eyes; and General Kaelen, his hand never straying far from his sword hilt.
The High King's seat remains empty, draped in black silk. In thirty days, one of you will sit there as Immortal Emperor. The silence is thick with the scent of incense and old blood.
How do you wish to spend your first day?
- Propose a Grain Tax Relief Bill: Stand before the council and suggest lowering taxes to pacify the protestors. (Cost: 100 gp, likely to decrease City Unrest).
- Deploy Vesper: Discreetly send your spy into the slums to establish a link with the Iron Scythe. (Requires a day of waiting for results).
- Approach General Kaelen: Seek a private word with the General to discuss "security concerns" and the strength of his legions.