Jester's Gambit

Story Outline

A priceless royal crown has disappeared from the castle's vault on the eve of the coronation. Detective Brix Ormond is tasked with finding the missing crown before the ceremony. To solve the mystery, Brix must speak with three individuals who might have clues about the theft. The first character is Knut Knucklebones, a cunning court jester known for his mischievous nature. Knut claims he saw Grimwald the Grave-Tender near the vault the night the crown vanished. He suggests that Grimwald's late-night activities are suspicious and implies that Grimwald might be involved in the theft. The second character is Grimwald the Grave-Tender, the solemn caretaker of the castle's burial grounds. Grimwald tells Brix that he noticed Lyra of Lindenvale carrying a heavy, concealed item through the corridors late at night. He mentions that Lyra seemed anxious and in a hurry, hinting that she might be hiding something. The third character is Lyra of Lindenvale, a noblewoman with a keen interest in the castle's history. Initially hesitant, Lyra eventually confesses to Brix that she discovered a secret passage within the castle. She reveals that Knut Knucklebones has been using this passage to sneak around unnoticed and that she suspects he might be behind the crown's disappearance. In the player's experience, Brix first talks to Knut Knucklebones. Knut eagerly points the finger at Grimwald, emphasizing how unusual it was to see Grimwald near the vault so late. Brix notes Knut's eagerness to accuse someone else and wonders if Knut is trying to divert attention from himself. Next, Brix speaks with Grimwald the Grave-Tender. Grimwald seems puzzled by the accusation and explains that his duties often require him to be out at night. He mentions seeing Lyra with a suspicious item, but his tone suggests he is merely stating facts, not accusing her outright. Brix considers that Grimwald appears sincere and has a valid reason for being present at night. Finally, Brix approaches Lyra of Lindenvale. After some persuasion, Lyra admits to discovering a secret passage in the castle. She explains that she saw Knut using the passage to move around secretly and suspects he's been stealing minor items for some time. Lyra insists she only used the passage to explore the castle's history and had no interest in the crown. Using logical deduction, Brix pieces together the clues. Knut accused Grimwald without substantial evidence, possibly to deflect suspicion. Grimwald's account seems trustworthy, and his sighting of Lyra aligns with her own admission about the secret passage. Lyra's revelation about Knut's secret movements provides a motive and means for Knut to have stolen the crown. Brix concludes that Knut Knucklebones used the secret passage to access the vault and steal the crown, attempting to frame others to hide his guilt.

Characters

Chambers

Paintings

Final Statement

Detective Ormond, here's what really happened. I saw Knut using the secret passage multiple times, but I kept quiet because I was focused on my research. Last night, I followed him and watched him slip into the vault through the hidden entrance. He must have been stealing small items all along, building up to this heist. The bundle Grimwald saw me carrying? That was just my research materials - scrolls and artifacts I'd been documenting. I should have spoken up sooner about the passage, but I honestly never thought Knut would dare steal something as significant as the royal crown. I can show you exactly where he would have emerged from the passage near the vault. You'll probably find the crown stashed somewhere along that route.