A royal summons.

Several months later, you're reading in your quarters when the dragonbone map activates. A small marker, somewhere off to the east of what is now Itheria pulses blood red.

Limping off to Marissa's chambers, you show her the map.

"Hmmm, looks like... The Devil's Throne, in Sinnabarrow." Marissa notes.

Your mother goes on to explain that the Devil's Throne is a ritual site, once a seat of power in Arinum's antediluvian kingdom, is now an obscure local landmark to the Sinnabarrovians, a grisly but foggily remembered history connected to it.

"We're to be at the Throne a month from now." Marissa notes. "Looks like we need an excuse for you to be in Sinnabarrow..."

Fortunately, there's an obvious one. King Pierre would gladly entertain a royal visit, if he thought you were there to woo him regarding his daughter's hand. And it would be only natural for Marissa to travel at your side, your mother, former regent and... intimate counsel.

In the coming days, the two of you set about making preparations to depart. Sir Malcolm, Lady Alanna and your other advisors will govern in your stead, while you and mother are out east. Pierre responds to your missive promptly, okaying your request in a brief response.