Korvosa, last bastion of civilization before the wilds of Varisia.  Magnimar claims that they are civilized, but none from Korvosa take them seriously.  The city has had a dark mood as of late, for the king, Eodred II, is dieing, without a direct heir, as all the rulers of Korvosa have.  The days pass slowly, but the people live their lives as they will, many worried what might happen if Eodred's young wife, Queen Ileosia, takes the throne.