Improving Fortunes

Given the gap between the first act and the second, it is likely that the player magi have spent some time investigating their new opponents. Assuming that the player magi and their agents keep themselves informed as to Casalmaggiore's fortunes they learn the following:

After the election of the new duke, the fortunes of Casalmaggiore seem to have improved. Some put it down to

increased trading activity in the city brought on by lower taxes. But the truth is that the Trattato has created a large quantity of silver. This apparent wealth has boosted the region and given it a degree of confidence.

While some of this new money is being directed to civic works, the majority has been promised to mercenaries and prospective allies. With wealth comes military power and the Duca di Casalmaggiore is accruing both in equal measure. This growing influence is more subtle and represented through rumored meetings and treaties between the Duke and other local nobles. This preparation is clearly apparent in the tournaments held across the region and the Duke shows off his military prowess by fielding large teams of well armed and armored men. Encounters with these men would make fitting tournament-based interludes for companion characters.

Hieronymous still retains his position, as do Lucia and her champion. Many suspect these three to be tainted with magic. In the case of Lucia and Avedutus they would be right, but Lucia has been careful to obtain a written agreement with the new Duke that limits the involvement of the magi at court to that of simple tenants paying scutage in lieu of military service.

Importantly, a trade dispute between Verona and Casalmaggiore has been manufactured and there have been skirmishes between troops in the employ of both sides. This is the backdrop against which this act is played.