The Crimson Masquerade
Behind every mask, a motive — behind every smile, a blade
Premise
The city-state of Valdris is ruled by five noble houses locked in a centuries-old power struggle. The aging Doge is dying without an heir, and the upcoming Crimson Masquerade will determine who seizes control. But someone is murdering key figures from each house, and the party has been hired to find the killer before the ball — or the city descends into civil war.
The World
Valdris, a Venice-inspired city-state built on a network of canals and bridges. Elegant palazzos hide secret passages, the gondoliers are the city's best spies, and every cup of wine might be your last. The city gleams with beauty and reeks of corruption.
Starting Location
The Gilded Quill Inn
An upscale establishment in the Merchant Quarter, where travelers of means and discretion find lodging. The innkeeper, a retired spy, has connections everywhere and serves as the party's initial contact.
5 characters to meet · 5 factions to discover · 3 plot hooks to uncover