Episode 5
-Smell, sweat-
Scene #10: E: Progress on ‘Rollo of Lost Shoe has gone missing two days before the raid’: the Stopping of Attention (ie, nobody is looking and nobody cares anymore)
As I journey home, I regret not having bathed at Varnath’s manor house. I really don’t want to return home wearing blood stained clothes and stinking of sweat. I head off the road along a nearby stream to remedy the situation.
-Morning Encounter-Farmers at work (2d4=5)- (Stealth 14)
I tether Dunn to a nearby bush close enough to let him drink as much as he wants while I disrobe and slip into the cool water. I slowly let myself relax, feeling the stress of the last few days leave me when I suddenly hear the sounds of people approaching. Five men appear at the water’s edge taking a break from their morning labor and begin stripping down for a bath as well.
I slide closer to the riverbank to hide from view, then With a flick of my wrist, I summon my tunic to my hand and another word removes all of the bloodstains from it. I am half dressed before they even see me climbing out of the water.
Q: Do they say anything? YES (Attitude-Hostile)
“Where do you think you’re going you pretty little thing?” one of the men snarls, leering hungrily at me.
“You should come back and play awhile,” adds another.
I finish climbing out of the water as two of them approach, and pull on my overskirt and blouse. “Are you Lord Warran’s tenants or Lord Varnath’s?” I ask the men.
Q: Does the question catch them off guard? YES (1-2 Varnath, 3-4 independent, 5-6 Warran)
“Lord Varnath’s,” one of the men replies, warily as I then strap on my belt, the long dagger and pouches plainly visible.
“Lord Varnath the White,” I scowl, “I hear that he is a hard man. He speaks his mind, anyway.” I pull on my boots.
Q: Do they stay back? YES E: Positive for Bareln: the Abandonment of a Dispute (Bareln and Anlyn no longer bear Yseldra ill will)
The men keep their distance, clearly intimidated by my familiar attitude towards their lord and casual regard for them. I wring the water from my hair then braid it back up while they watch. “I hope today is for your land’s and not your lord’s if you are going to dawdle watching me,” I remind them.
One of the men stammers, “It’s our day.”
I nod, “Very well then. Enjoy your bath.” I untie Dunn and then continue on my way. As soon as I am out of sight, I mutter a few more arcane words, cleaning the rest of my clothing.
-Conversation topice: Community-Generate the rest of his personality and…wow!-
A couple of hours later, I arrive at Lord Warran’s Village of Hearthmane. I stop for bread, speaking with the baker, Osgood, once more.
“I like this village,” Osgood admits to me, “but it is a bit small for my taste. I would that I could afford a shop in Farhold proper. There, my pastries might sell better to merchants who can afford a higher price, and there are certainly more women to choose from when one feels lonely at night.”
I raise an eyebrow, “I…suppose that would be true.”
Q: Does he get really awkward and inappropriate? NO
“Widowed life does not entirely suit me. I miss my wife, but any company would be welcome. In a city, I might even find a widow who wishes a fresh start with me,” Osgood sighs wistfully.
“I wish you luck in that endeavor,” I reply, thanking him for the delicate pastries he gave me for my coins.
Q: Does Warran spot me? YES
Then I hear Lord Warran’s familiar voice, “Once again, you enter my village and go straight to the baker for a meal instead of to my home. One might suspect you have a thing for older men, instead of extraordinary men.” Then he looks around, “And where are your companions? Did you not have three escorts with you a few days ago?”
I muster a smile, “Forgive me Warran, I did not wish to demand hospitality from you twice in less than a week.”
“Nonsense, you are always welcome here, milady,” he grins, taking my hand and bowing to kiss it, which I allow. “Please, come join me. It is nearly time for lunch. I will have one of my grooms refresh your animal as well.”
“You are a most gracious host,” I reply and allow him to escort me to his manor house.
“What happened to your cloak?” he asks, noticing my familiar garment is lacking.
“I left it wrapped around one of my men to serve as his burial shroud,” I reply with a wistful smile. “Perhaps it will keep him from the cold of the grave.”
Q: Is he sympathetic? EXCEPTIONAL NO
“That rabble was hardly worth such a gift” He begins as I interrupt him.
“That rabble, as you call Calbroth, was a brave man and a skilled warrior. He died serving me. For that, he deserves my respect and honor,” I snap, withdrawing my hand from Warrans. “I remember those who serve me and honor those who serve me well. You should do the same. Now, I am to my father’s house. Good day.” I turn and walk away, retrieving my mule before the stable boy can unburden it.
Q: Does he apologize? YES Q: Does he offer escort? YES
“Please forgive me, my lady. You are a gracious and honorable woman and I did not mean to offend. Please, allow me to escort you back to Farhold,” the noble offers.
I nod my head, and wait for a few minutes while he dresses for the road, and along with two of his men and the loan of a horse, the four of us now ride the rest of the way to Farhold.
-Afternoon Encounter-None-Discussion topic-Equipment?-
As we ride, Lord Warran asks about the copper bracelet I am wearing, stating he does not remember having seen it before. “It comes from a ruin called Guldall in the Whispering Hills. It dates back to the days of an ancient elven empire, called Elhana Sur.” I slip the bracelet from my wrist and pass it to him to examine.
-Warran’s History 6-
Examining the bracelet, he admits, “I know very little of the elves who lived in this region before. I thought this was human land, the Empire of Thrum. This is a nicely crafted piece though. A shame the skill was wasted on such a base metal though.”
Accepting the bracelet back, I agree, “Some things are worth more because of the meaning behind them than the value they hold on the market. A man died that I might return home, and this is a prize from that venture. I will wear it to remember that sacrifice.”
Q: Does he agree? YES
“Perhaps that is a good thing to do. A way to remember your brave man, as you call him,” he agrees.
Soon we arrive at the gates of Farhold. As courtesy demands, I offer hospitality, “Thank you for attending me home. Would you care to stay the night as my father’s guest and join us for dinner?”
Q: Does he accept? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“I would be most honored, my lady,” he beams with an excitement that makes me immediately regret the invitation, but we are soon on our way through the city gates and towards my father’s keep.
-Encounter-Local Character-Generate the Guildmaster of the Horse Breeder’s Guild-
“Ah, what a fine match we have here! Superior breeding stock indeed” I hear Master Siward proclaim on seeing Lord Warran by my side.
Q: Is Warran amused? Very Likely-NO
The noble scowls, “Mind your place, horse breeder.”
Q: Does this escalate? Very Unlikely-EXCEPTIONAL YES
“A dandy little fop with a sword should mind his own place,” the guild master retorts. “It’s money makes the world go round, and that nag you’re riding is more fit for a butcher than a battle.”
Q: Does Warran take this? Very Unlikely NO
“I’ll have you flogged for your insolence!” Lord Warran gestures to his men.
-Intimidate 14-
“No you won’t!” I command. “Master Siward, apologize to Lord Warran. Lord Warran, apologize to Master Siward. Now!”
Q: Will both men do so? Likely NO
They ignore me, and soon there is a scuffle on the street as Warran’s men try to apprehend the Guildmaster and his roughnecks immediately converge to hold them off.
Q: Is steel drawn? NO
The number of men at the Guildmaster’s beck and call is enough to cause Warran’s men to back off. Lord Warran turns to me, “Your father will hear about this!”
“You and Master Siward are both valued members of my father’s council. I am sure my father will hear from each of you, and then I will tell him what fools you both are being,” I shake my head in disgust and ride on to my father’s keep.
-generate the rest of the Faust household, all three of Yseldra’s older brothers are married, and…there is an interesting twist-and generate the representative-Windlash, well, that makes sense)
Q: Is there a musician tonight? NO
-Evening-
(Immersion, Social, NPC roars at me! 1-3 it’s dad, 4-6 is Severon and it’s Severon)
Scene #11 (Positive Alteration):
Arriving at home, I hand Dunn over to a stablehand and have one servant bring his precious cargo up to my room, while another guides Lord Warran to a guest room where he can refresh, and I retire to my room to dress for dinner. When properly attired, I enter the great hall where my brother, Severon, roars, “What did you mean to accomplish with this foolish venture of yours?”
Mical’s wife, Lady Verna, skin pale as her brother’s defends me, “At least she went to Lost Shoe to investigate while my brother’s pleas for help have fallen on your and your father’s deaf ears.”
Severon wheels towards her while my father observes how his chosen heir will handle this complaint, “Lost Shoe is in no real danger. The attack was driven off with ease and our scouts report there is no nearby warband large enough to threaten taking that village.”
I approach my father, already seated at the head of the table, “May I present you the keystone to the ruined library of Guldall, an elven site in the Whispering Hills and the objective of the orc raid on Lost Shoe. Perhaps with a company of soldiers at his back, my good brother could parley a truce with the orcs who sought it, offering it as a gesture of good will. In the meantime, yes, Lady Verna’s brother, your faithful servant Lord Varnath, humbly requests a squadron of soldiers to help bolster his defenses until the winter frost arrives or this orc situation is resolved.
Q: Does father grant Varnath’s request? YES
Baron Faust’s eyes light up on hearing my words, “An ancient elven library? And you secured it?”
“The soldiers, father?” I smile
“Yes,” he turns towards his daughter in law, “Your brother will have his reinforcements,” then turning to Captain Sonder, nods towards the officer who is already considering which squad to send. “Now, about this library?”
I set down at my appointed place, where Lord Warran is already seated to my left, waiting my arrival. “Yes father, nearly two hundred books remain at the site, which is held by kobolds. I recovered six tomes, but left the remainder behind.”
“You took a mule, and my understanding, four men. And your company returns with only six books?” Faust raises an eyebrow.
“Father, I took only three men, and returned with two men, a corpse, and six books. Then I left two of the men to bury their friend in Lost Shoe,” I respond somberly.
“Wait! There were four in that company,” Lord Mical interrupts.
Sevoron groans, muttering “I knew you had to have been behind this.”
“One chose not to accompany me once he learned who I was. Another died in the fighting,” I reply.
“These were the Warhawks, I presume?” Baron Faust glances between Mical and I. Mical and I both nod, “The two who survived. Are they worth anything?” Severon scoffs at the notion, though his wife, Othna, listens intently.
“The former soldier, Belarn, is stalwart, but will not obey orders he disagrees with. Anlynn is a good fellow, but not much help in a fight, except that he can weave healing magic through his elven songs,” I explain.
Q: Is Othna interested in them? YES E: Progress on ‘Rollo of Lost Shoe has gone missing two days before the raid’: a Decrease of Death
Lady Othna inquires, “These two men, might if your father has no use for them, could they perhaps be free to serve my brother in Twin Towers?”
Q: will Faust let them go? EXCEPTIONAL YES
Severon glares at his wife for interrupting, but Faust scoffs, “If your brother has use for them, he can have them. They let my daughter return home without them. They seem unreliable, and from the sounds of it, could not even hold their own team together long enough to make a deal.”
Q: Does Warran position himself? YES
Lord Warran adds, “That is correct, my lord. Your daughter was allowed to return home alone from Lost Shoe without proper escort by Lord Varnath or by her own, ill considered, hirelings. That is why I took it upon myself to see her safely back to your estate. Your daughter’s safety and the prosperity of your house are ever a concern to my father and I.”
Q: Does this piss off Verna? YES
Lady Verna, seated on my right, nudges my side and glares at me, then interrupts, “My brother sees to the needs of his people and has already made this house aware of his village’s vulnerability. My sister in law clearly felt she was safe to travel our realm alone, and you should know better than to eye a woman so far above your station.”
“Mind your wife,” Severon glares at Bertran, who nudges her.
“So, sister, these books?” Bertran asks.
“I haven’t had a chance to fully inspect them, but there seem to be catalogs of ancient sites that might be of interest for further exploration,” I suggest, to the excitement of several members of our household.
Q: Does this piss off Verna? YES
“So my sister found some books that might lead to something valuable, or cause even more trouble. But she did so at the cost of a company of troubleshooters, losing one of their number in her venture, and endangering her own life, which could cost our house an alliance that her hand, intact, could secure. This was reckless folly and she should be held to account,” Severon suggests.
Q: Does this piss off Verna? YES
“Sister! Once you had a man refuse to join your command, you should have given up on this venture. Our brother is right that you are more valuable as a potential spouse than you ever will be as a…wandering wizard,” Mical chimes in. I glare at him for he is the one that recommended that company, “I have been thinking,” He looks towards our parents, “Prince Jon Free would make a good match for her. Think of it! The only independent kingdom in the West, tied to us when its current ties to Westhold fray.”
Q: Does Bertran have anything to add? EXCEPTIONAL NO
My third brother quietly picks at his food, his wife having already stirred up quite a scene and our older siblings bartering my future.
Q: Does Faust agree with Mical? YES
My father looks me up and down, then suggests, “Mical, perhaps a letter of introduction would be prudent. I hear he is a good rider anyway.”
Severon smirks, “He cannot match anyone whose actually had to earn their spurs.”
Q: Will Warran challenge? YES
“I look forward to testing yours at your father’s tournament,” Lord Warran nods towards Severon.
Q: Does Severon accept? YES
“Then you and I will be first on the list,” Severon grins, eager for battle.
Q: Does Warran make a demand? YES E: Positive for Yseldra Faust: a Lie about Death
“If I best your heir,” Lord Warran asks of my father, “Perhaps your daughter’s hand should be my prize?”
Q: Does Othna protest? YES
“Preposterous,” Severon’s wife, Othna, interjects, “A prince or baron are the only suitable matches for the lone daughter of Baron Faust. Not to serve as housewife of some village lord.” Then she turns towards me and smirks, “Perhaps Lord Almunstor would be a good match. He would keep her in line.” Her husband, briefly annoyed by her interruption, laughs and agrees instead.
-Persuasion 17-
I shudder at the thought of becoming the wife of a flagellant so driven by the faith, “Perhaps my hand should not be a mere bargaining chip for potential allies. I have already proven I can lead an expedition on my own and return with a prize.”
Q: Does father end this discussion? EXCEPTIONAL YES Q: Will he bless further expeditions? YES
“Your sister’s marriage prospects are not for the two of you to debate or decide. That decision is mine to make,” then he looks to me, “and my daughter is correct in her assessment. She has my permission to purse additional ventures, testing her skills and adding to her value to our house, and to her potential future house.”
My mother smiles at her husband’s ruling, and Mical’s wife, Erana, also nods approvingly from across the table.
-Topic, retainers-
With no music to entertain, my family continues to talk throughout the meal, Lady Erana asks, “Why did you actually take the men my husband recommended? He told me there were two Craglanders among them! Once can never trust a Craglander.”
“It was a mistake I hope to never repeat. I took the men I could find. And while Calbrock, for that was the fallen man’s name, was a brave fighter, he was undisciplined. That recklessness cost him his life, and nearly cost us all. I’ll seek only men who can follow orders in the future.” I admit.
–1-3 Severon, 4-6 Warran-
“Because you know how to give them in the heat of battle?” Lord Warran, who would be my husband, expresses his doubts.
-Intimidation 9-
“Yes. I do,” I reply flatly, holding his gaze.
He scoffs as Severon chimes in, “Commanding little figures on a cloth matt is hardly the same as leading men in battle. No, she has now knowledge of command.” The two rivals nod in agreement.
Q: Does Bertran defend me? NO Q: Father? YES
“Yet here she is. Returned to us, having crossed the Lone Fields in the company of three men, having explored an ancient ruin, and then returning home safely. Clearly, either she can lead men, or the goddess blessed her gamble. Either way, she was victorious, and at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter whether one is blessed with skill, luck, cunning or a freaking miracle, as long as one comes out on top. Well done!” he smiles at me, ending the debate over my leadership skills.
After this, we speak of trading mead with the dwarves of Windlash, for their emissary, Avas Stonebreath, had joined us for this meal and prudently kept his mouth shut, or rather, full of mead, during my family’s debate. It seems they demand a lower price than would be profitable to ship, so father has lost interest in further dealings, but the dwarf is reluctant to abandon our mead.
Q: Does Krenal follow? NO
As soon as is reasonable, I retire from the hall, and once in my room, light a lamp, undress, and sit down in bed to begin reading one of the books I have found.
-6th Heyday-
-Pleasant, Cloudy, No Rain, Steady Breeze-
-Immersion, touch, stone-
Q: Does Erana come to see me? YES (Resolve the above event, Positive for Yseldra Faust: a Lie about Death)
Scene #12: E: Resolution of ‘Q: Does father grant Varnath’s request? YES’: a Struggle for Technology
I wake with a start as the door to my chambers open. Light already pours in from the window and a servant enters with a tray laden with food followed by Mical’s wife, Erana. She has a bone scroll case in her hand that she places in mine. I run my fingers along it, and notice that it is engraved to depict a tower, with each stone etched separately. “A gift. It belonged to my late father. I cannot read it, but you might.” Then, sitting no my bed, she moves aside the book that I fell asleep reading, “but perhaps you should not read so much that you sleep through breakfast. Your brothers were disappointed. You know which ones I mean,” she winks.
“Thank you, sister,” I smile as I open up the scrolls case. “A valuable container.”
Q: Does she give the case too? NO
“Yes,” she agrees, “I am keeping that!” she grins as she takes it back.
(Random spell book language)
Unrolling the scroll, I see that it is written in Elven, and on reading what it says, my eyes widen in delight, “Oh, wow. Oh sister,” I drop the scroll and hug Erana.”
“What is it?” she asks in bewildered excitement.
“A spell. A spell that might one day save my life. It…it allows one to appear as though dead,” then I giggle, “If I ever happen to die of poison on the eve of my wedding, please make sure I am placed in the family crypt with a change of clothes and travelling supplies concealed within.”
Q: Does she swear to it? Very Likely YES Q: Does she ask to fake her death? Very Unlikely NO
Erana laughs and swears she will do so, “Would that I could sneak away with you.” Then she considers what she just said. “Had I known my father’s lands would be given away…I would have refused marriage to your brother. Do you think your father would have let me keep the village were I equal to one of his knights?”
Q: Would my father? YES
I nod, “Yes. He would have. But that is not the road we travel. And you would have still been required to marry.”
“But I would have chosen…” Erana hesitates.
“Nobody comes to mind do they? Mical is a good match. And I am glad to have you as my sister,” I reply.
Q: Is she glad? NO
“You are a good sister, but I would rather be Dame of my own holding had I known it would otherwise be lost, even if I had to marry another. I could find a man who is good with a blade but who would leave governing to me. Your father has half a dozen who would appreciate the title even more without having to manage it.” Erana suggests.
I laugh, “And you could likely manage a village better than half of my father’s men who do. Including that brigand he gave your home to!”
“Agh, Renault! I…I really hope an orc takes him. Good with a sword, but good for nothing else,” Eran laments.
(Topic, Parents)
“Thank you for the gift, and thank you for breakfast,” I smile. Then we talk for a bit about our respective parents. She and I both grew up in Farhold, though I did not know her father well, and cannot recall ever having met her mother, for she died many years ago.
–
Q: Is Krenal home? YES Q: Is he excited? YES
After breakfast, I carry my collection of books to Master Krenal’s chambers, “Master Krenal? Please, take a look here.”
“Excellent,” he grins, welcoming me and closing the door after I enter, “Let us see what Lady Meara’s apprentice brought back home.”
“And let’s see if you can teach me something to make it easier for me to return home again in the future,” I suggest with a wink.
Q: Is he eager to train me? Unlikely YES
“Your father made it clear last night that you are free to pursue such madness as venturing into ancient ruins, risking life and limb. I will help ensure you make it back out alive. But you will repay me in…findings such as these,” he grins thumbing through the texts, pausing on the one that made my eyes swim, “This book is neither for you nor your father.” He takes it away and sets it on his desk, but returns with another. “In exchange, let me teach you something.”
—
Downtime Initial before weekly check: From Erana, Yseldra gained a scroll of “Feign Death” which is a positive lie about death. Yseldra changes all of her ancient Elhana Sur gold and silver for Norgardian coins at a 10% loss.
Krenal allows access to his first level spells, Arcana DC 12 to learn a 1st level spell, Advantage from Krenal as mentor, 50 gp per spell, 25 gp for Abjuration
Possible spells: Burning Hands(y), Protection from Good/Evil (n), False Life (y), Dissonant Whispers (y), Jump (y), Comprehend Languages (y), Magic Missile (y), Tasha’s Hideous Laughter (n), Tenser’s Floating Disk(y)
-Having failed the rolls for two spells, I take Protection from Good/Evil and Tasha’s Hideous Laugther as my free spells. I add two more spells to my book at 50 gp each, Comprehend Languages, and Burning Hands. I buy a weak potion of Trollblood (and am given three more in exchange for the magic potion I found), and four Sunberry Salves. I sell the jeweled ebony mask, the ebony cups, and the masterwork leather armor for half of their value (rolled badly), gaining enough money to also scribe False Life
Q: Am I given a spell in exchange for the book? NO Q: Am I offered potions in exchange for the Cold Resistance? YES (1d4=3 Weak Potions of Healing, 150 gp value for a 100 to 500 gp value item)
The copper bracelet, the silver pendant, and the platinum ring are retained, and Yseldra has 153 gp and 1 platinum coin as well. Also spends 5 gp for basic equipment maintenance, supply replenishment and another 2 gp to replace her cloak.
Downtime Week 6th thru 12th Heyday
Offered a dangerous mission by a dangerous commmoner to capture an assassin, she declines. Saves 10% of her weekly salary (3 gp), could wager, but she doesn’t, (Generate details of the mission patron)
Charisma DC 15 to find a potential recruit, rolled a 19, (Generate details of the potential recruit)
I spent the following week studying and scribing new spells, then poring over the books recovered from Guldall, in addition to attending my household duties, as meager as they are, of helping Bertran review contracts and invoices. In the evening, I would visit the taverns and ask around about people interested in work.
While in town, Master Sewel of the Butcher’s Guild approached me seeking advice. “Lady Yseldra,” he bows lightly, “I have heard rumor that you took a band of armed men into the Lone Fields to explore. That is not something I would ever have expected of a woman of your station.”
“Pray tell, who speaks of such things?” I reply cautiously.
“Well, who’s to say? Everyone buys from our shops and word travels fast,” he shrugs, “but is it true?”
“And if it is?” I warily ask, though this question reveals the answer.
“If a clever woman is brave as well, and has good men at her disposal, then that woman could help an old friend of her family with a delicate issue that requires both strength and cunning to resolve.” Master Sewel responds gesturing for me to enter his shop. I follow him, and he sends his journeymen outside, locks the door and closes the shutters. “My lady, I fear for my life. Word travels fast, and some words, I would rather not have heard. I fear a man may seek my life, because of such words. A man with red hair, short and fair skinned. I have seen him twice now, watching me. But I saw him once before, when perhaps, I shouldn’t have. He was meeting with some people who,” Sewel closes his eyes in defeat and sighs. I press him to continue, “They had a woman with them. A girl from another land. And they donned masks, and…I should not have watched, but…they killed her. In some strange rite. And I gasped in shock. And they turned and saw me. And I fled.”
“Where was this, and when?” I ask in concern.
“Three nights ago, my lady. When I was in the cemetery, laying flowers before our family mausoleum” he whimpers. “And I fear they recognized me. Can you please help?”
Q: Was a murder reported? EXCEPTIONAL YES Q: Has he reported it? YES
“So you witnessed the killing? Did you tell Captain Sonders or Lord Bertan?” I ask in shock and concern.
“Yes, my lady, but I fear they will not find the man fast enough. I need true help. Fast help. Cunning help,” he pleads.
“I am not that help, but I will urge my brother to provide it. And I will tell Captain Sonders to assign men to watch over you,” I explain.
Q: Is this satisfactory? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“Thank you! Thank you my lady! I will not forget this favor if you help me!” Master Sewel responds.
Q: Is a detail assigned? Very Likely NO
After leaving his company, I relay the situation and the Guildmaster’s concerns to both my brother, my father and his captain, but they refuse to assign men to the task.
Q: Is one of my father’s companies available? YES E: Remote Event: an Ambush and Riches Q: Is Sewel the one ambushed? YES Q: Do they think he’s being paranoid? YES Q: Does Mical tell me about a company in town? YES (roll for which one, generate personalities for it…and the wizard’s spell list)
Frustrated by my father’s dismissal of the guildmaster’s request as mere paranoia, I ask Mical where I can find some of the sellswords our father uses, and he sends me to find the Loremasters.
Q: Does he have a servant? YES Q: Will Aborath see me? (a sure thing) YES
I head to the boarding house where their leader, Aborath, resides, and knock on his door. His servant answers and I explain who I am.
“You are Baron Faust’s daughter?” Aborath asks on arriving at the door and welcoming me inside. “And to what honor to I owe this visit?”
I smile at the older man and then adopting a more somber tone explain, “Master Sewel Beton of the Butcher’s Guild would like to hire protection against a man who has been spying on him, and who might mean him harm. The master witnessed a murder committed in some sort of profane ritual, and fears this spy may be part of a diabolical coven of some sort.”
“And why are you here, instead of him?” Aborath asks.
“Because he approached me for help, since his pleas to my father fell on deaf ears. My father feels his fears are mere paranoia,” I explain.
“Your father is a questionable judge of character,” Aborath catches himself, but then smiles ruefully, “Perhaps I should not say that to his daughter, but he knows my opinion and has never resented me stating it.”
I laugh, “Yes, I have heard you speak your mind. My father respects that, and it may be why he has retained your company for many years.”
Aborath nods, “Yes. He is, in many ways, fairer than most men. I would that he chose other fair men as vassals.”
“I am not here to discuss vassals or politics, but to ask your help. Will you go see Master Sewel and offer your services. If he cannot afford you, perhaps I can make up the difference to make it worth your while?” I suggest, glancing around his room, spotting a small collection of books, ink and parchment on a desk, and noting an unusually attentive cat observing our conversation. The wand and the crystal ball confirm my suspicions about the man.
Q: Does he want magic access? YES
He smiles as he follows my gaze, “I had heard you went to study under your great aunt. I know that you must have learned something from a court wizard. Perhaps, if I do this favor for your friend, you might share some of what she taught you with me?”
I fix my eyes on his and slowly nod, “Perhaps I have knowledge to share with you, and you with me, if my friend’s fears are relieved and he comes to no harm.”
Q: Will he take the contract? YES
“Very well. I will visit with Master Sewel, and see that he receives the help and protection he requires,” the half elf replies, standing up. He reaches a hand out and the cat leaps up into his arms. “Thank you, Lady Yseldra. It has been a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance.”
“And yours as well, good Aborath. You have been most gracious to receive me on such sudden notice. Thank you,” I nod politely as I depart.
Q: Do the Loreseekers thwart the ambush? YES Q: Does Sewell pay them in full? YES (d6, this event resolves for Sewell and the Loreseekers in 6 days, so…likely the 14th)
—
(Generate the potential recruit Q: Is Karta a bandit? YES Q: Is Habran there? YES Q: Balern and Anlyn? NO Q: Balern and Anlyn? NO Q: Does he confront me? EXCEPTIONAL YES
At the Devil’s Cup one night, looking for potential allies, Habran spots me, “You pampered bitch! Looking for more men to lead to their deaths?”
Q: Did Balern and Anlyn return? YES
All eyes are on us as I sigh, “And a good evening to you as well, Habran. I take it Balern and Anlyn have spoken with you?”
“Yeah, they did. They told me you pushed them forward against heavy odds and refused to retreat. Then let Calbrock die on his own all for a few books!” He accuses me.
-Persuasion 15-Intimidation 12-
“Calbrock broke ranks, was cut off and surrounded. Had he held the line, we would have likely all made it through,” I calmly explain. Then I push, “And had you been with us, there would have been no danger at all. An extra man would have made all of the difference, but you let your company down!”
Q: Does this get people’s attention? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“Don’t you try and put this on me, princess!” Habran angrily retorts, and suddenly everyone’s eyes are on me, “You’re a pretentious little witch who knows nothing of battle, or honor, and every word from your lips is a lie!”
I listen, calmly, while the Craglander rants and fumes.
“If you were a man, I’d challenge you right now!” Habran continues.
-Intimidation 11-
Examining my nails, I provoke him further, “If you were a man, Calbroth would have had you at his side instead of you remaining here, fretting over not being given more information than was needed for a very simple expedition.”
Q: Does he totally lose it? YES
He leaps at me and soon I am in a fist fight with the lanky Craglander! He punches me a number of times and my protective ward flares as people stand back in shock, but I punch back, yelling in fury. In spite of his height, he isn’t a particularly strong man, and we trade blows repeatedly. But after he pops me hard in the nose, briefly blinding me, I block his next fist with an arcane shield, then follow it up with a counter blow. He then throws me across a table, but leaping on me afterwards, I slide him away with a second arcane shield, and then kick him hard in the groin. Enraged, he keeps coming, and we end up rolling on the ground, each trying to get the upper hand, kicking and punching like savage animals until…I hit him hard on the bridge of his nose and the fight suddenly goes out of him as he rolls around on the ground, then lies still, whimpering. I stagger to my feet, and straighten my clothes, wiping the blood from my nose, and from another cut on my lip. I know I’ll be a mess in the morning. Then I bend down and offer the man a hand up, “You’re a good fighter, Habran. We could have used you.”
Q: Does he accept my hand? YES
Reluctantly, he looks up, then takes my hand as I pull him up to his feet. “They said you were a witch. That you can throw fire from your hands.”
“And yet, you came at me?” I ask, letting my free hand bathe in flames to the shock of other patrons.
“And you fought me, fist to fist?” he looks at me in shock.
“Well, you had me. I did use magic to protect myself, otherwise, I’d be the one on the ground,” I confess.
Q: Does he apologize? (No Way) NO
He nods, but looks at my burning hand, “But you didn’t burn me.” He wipes the blood from his nose, then turns away and leaves.
Q: Does Henna realize who I am? NO
The innkeeper, Henna, approaches, “I don’t know who you are, lady, but witches aren’t welcome here!”
-Intimidation 22-
“I am Yseldra Faust, and I am welcome anywhere in my father’s domain,” I reply, then glare at her, “And you will pour me a drink. Or you will pack up and leave.”
“A tankard of our finest, my lady,” Henna bows and returns to her bar.
Q: Are people afraid? NO
The patrons, more entertained by the fight than fearful, return to their drinks.
“Wow!” that was impressive, a burly half orc woman grins as she approaches, “and by the baron’s daughter no less? Who would have thought that a palace brat could hold her own in a fight with a Craglander?”
I look her up and down, then laugh, “You would have waxed the floor with a man as scrawny as he is, Craglander or not.”
“That’s true. But if you know magic, why did you fight him…mostly fair?” she asks.
“Because he needed to fight me. To let go of that…anger within himself, I think? And yes, I let his friend down. I didn’t know how to lead him. How to make sure he did what I needed him to do, what he needed to do in order to survive,” I explain, taking the tankard from Henna and beckoning for the half orc to sit with me, signaling for a second drink for my new companion.
“And what was that?” the half orc asks.
“Just follow orders. We had kobolds coming at us from two directions, and I ordered my men to fall back into a hallway, as we had done before, a chokepoint that limits their ability to use numbers against us. But Calbrock…he had more guts than sense, and he ignored my order. And Balern, and Anlyn did as well. And we got separated. And nearly all died. But eventually, Balern heeded my call to retreat, and then held the choke point. Then I was able to get behind our foes, and…well, we survived. They didn’t. And Calbrock didn’t,” I stare down at my drink. “But I won’t make that mistake again. I need fighting men who will obey orders.”
“Orders to do what, exactly?” the half orc asks.
-Persuasion 18-
“To hold positions I tell them to. To watch one another’s backs. To stand down when I seek to avoid a fight, to strike hard and fast when we must, to sneak, to search for plunder, police the dead, stand watch…everything. As soldiers should, but on missions that ordinary soldiers would fear to take,” I explain in bits and pieces, still in a bit of shock as I recall the horror of Calbrock’s fate.
Q: Is she interested? YES
“Men? Or someone like me? I can follow orders,” the half orc replies.
I meet her gaze, “My name is Yseldra Faust. I aim to return to the Lone Fields in three weeks time to finish gathering a collection of books we discovered in an old ruin there. We may fight kobolds in the ruin, or new interlopers. And we may face orcs in the Lone Fields, or any other number of foes. I need a company of fighters will you be one of them?”
“Let’s talk shares,” she responds.
“Shares? I offer a wage of 1 gold crown per day to wait around while I assemble a company and plan the trek. Then I offer two gold crowns per day on the trek there and back,” I suggest.
Q: Does she want a percentage? EXCEPTIONAL NO
“That’s well and good, but I want 35 gold crowns in addition on completion of the mission. Enough to keep me fed and warm for a month afterwards, which ensures I have time to recover from any, injuries,” she reaches forward to brush some blood from my lip. “You understand, yes?”
I reach up and dab away some blood from under my nose, “Yes, prudent. I agree to those terms. Where are you lodging?”
Q: Is she at the inn? YES
“Here at the Devil’s Cup. My name is Karta,” she reaches out her hand.
I grip it firmly, “Ysel…I’ve already introduced myself. Sorry. I should have asked your name earlier.”
Karta smiles, “I think maybe you took a good knock to the noggin.”
I laugh, “Probably. I am not used to sparring like that.”
“I’ll teach you a thing or two then, perhaps on the road.”
“On the road.” I agree. Then I count out seven gold crowns. “I’ll stop by each week to pay your retainer until we are ready to go.”
She slides the coins into her purse, “I am looking forward to it.”
Downtime Week 2, 13th thru 17th Heyday
(pay 10 gp to catch up Karta to the 17th)
-No special event, Yseldra is not in a financial position to gamble-
-Rolls a 9 vs DC 15 to find a recruit, fails-
Q: Does Bertran ask? NO
The following week, I nursed my nose and split lip, while working around the keep, studying, helping Bertran with his books, and also spending time in the evening at the Devil’s Cup. Thankfully, my brother doesn’t pry into the reason I am sporting a busted nose.
-17th Heyday-Lord’s Day
-Immersion-I point at me-
Scene #13 (Positive Alteration):
Having avoided family dinners and most members of our household all week, my mother finally had a servant request my presence for dinner. On my arrival, after I sit in my usual spot between Verna and Captain Sonder, my father observes, “There are rumors about you reaching my ears. You are…the baron’s witch of a daughter, I am told. And you frequent a brothel and engage in fisticuffs with barbarians. Or do my ears deceive me?” My father grins broadly with a gleam in his eyes even as my eldest brothers stare at me in surprise.
-Persuasion 8-not impressing my brothers. I wasn’t checking for dad-
Sensing my father’s pride, I smile and thumb to my chest, “Yes, father, I have been to the Devil’s Cup, seeking the sort of men who helped secure your throne, and defending my honor, our honor, in a hand to hand fight. And your daughter is no witch, regardless of what people say, but I will use magic to defend myself, and openly so to defend our house.”
Q: Does Mical join in? NO
“This is ridiculous!” Severon objects. “It is bad enough that you engage in sorcery, but now you do so publicly? And you linger in a house of ill repute with common bandits and cutthroats? You are a member of a noble house and you should behave as such!”
Q: Is father amused? YES
Though Ladies Othna and Verna nod in agreement, my father laughs in amusement, “My dearest son,” he chides Severon, “I have lingered in houses of ill repute among common bandits and cutthroats. Or did you forget how I carved out my own kingdom? And where do you think your men go after a hard campaign?” Then fixing his eyes on me, “Guard your virtue, daughter, or at least your reputation. Don’t allow it to be said that my daughter is a whore.” This statement draws a gasp from my sisters in law and an icy stare from my mother, “but yes, that is where you will find the men you need for the kind of challenges you seek to overcome. Have you had any luck so far?”
My face flushed from father’s crude statement, I reply, “Yes father. I woman named Karta has agreed to accompany me on my return to Guldall.”
-Randomize the objector-
“A woman?” Severon protests, “To do what? Is she a scout? A witch like yourself?”
“She’s…” I hesitate. She never clearly said what she can do, but rather implied it, “She’s a warrior.” I look to Captain Sonders for affirmation, then press, “And Captain Sonders will have one of his men test her for me, to see how she stacks up.”
Q: Does the Captain agree? YES Q: Does Severon object? YES
As the captain nods his assent, Severon objects, “I’ll test this woman myself.”
-Intimidation 12-
I shrug my shoulders, “I thought you would consider fighting a woman beneath you. But I certainly won’t be embarrassed if she defeats you.”
Q: Does he reconsider? YES
Flustered, Severon recants, “Sonders, have one of your men test her.”
Q: Does Erana interrupt? YES Q: Does Mical pile on? NO
Lady Eran interjects, “No dear brother, you should test her! Unless you are afraid a woman might humiliate you!” she laughs. Mical shakes his head indicating he wants his wife to shut up.
I tease my brother, “I would tell her to go easy on you, to help keep you from humiliation.”
Q: Does he storm off? NO (Topic Flaws?)
“Pah!” he retorts, “Bring me a fresh tankard,” he calls to a servant and we shift to other topics of interest.
“My son. You should not let your sister provoke you so easily,” mother suggests in her tranquil voice, “it is unbecoming of a leader to allow his temper to get the best of him.” Then turning towards me, “and daughter, it would be wiser to use your tongue to end a dispute than to escalate one.”
“Forgive me mother,” I reply, “You know that Severon and I test each other, but adore each other as well.”
Q: Does Severon apologize? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“Forgive me mother, you are correct. I allowed my temper to get the best of me. Such folly can lead to destruction,” then turning to me, “And I was wrong to question your decision to recruit a woman. It is a prudent choice to have another woman with you on the road, and there are many women,” looking now towards Erana, “who are more than capable of holding their own in a fight. I pray your…Karta…is one of them. Should she desire training. I would be honored to assist.”
I blink in astonishment, as does most everyone else in the hall. “Why…um….thank you brother.” I stammer out a reply.
“Well look at that!” Baron Faust beams, “My first born and my daughter getting along! Who would have ever thought such a thing. You, Mical?”
Q: Does Mical laugh? YES
“No father, never in a thousand years!” Mical laughs to his wife’s amusement and those of the rest of our household.
Then Mical opines, “Several men tried to murder Master Sewell last night. Did you know that, sister?”
Surprised, I realize that most everyone else in the household had already heard the news, “No, brother, I have been involved in my studies most of the day.”
Father continues, “Apparently, someone arranged the Loreseekers to watch over him, and the attack was thwarted. Who might have done such a thing, I wonder?” his eyes bore into mine.
“I spoke with Aborath and asked him to visit with Master Sewell and protect him if he could,” I confess.
Q: Is Faust pleased? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“You are becoming quite the little problem solver. My clever girl,” Faust nods approvingly. “Very well done.”
“Thank you father,” I nod, grateful for the recognition.
The rest of the night passes with little further incident, there are discussions of trade and of disputes or complaints from our vassals. After a time, I am able to excuse myself to my chambers where I slip into the soothing bliss of a warm bed.
-18th Heyday-Holy Day of Reflection
-Immersion see something valuable and it worries me-
-Sweltering, clear skies, strong breeze-
Scene #14 (Negative Alteration): Stat out Mother Muriel, faction: (1-3 traditional, 4 penitent, 5 inquisitor, 6 redeemer)-Inquisitor/Purifier
Reflection is unusually hot, which is perhaps why the temple is so full on this holy day as we examine the state of our souls in and fear the fiery torments of Abyssia. As I kneel on the sharp rocks before the altar, I stare up at the statue of the goddess, crowned in gold, and worry that she might judge me harshly at how my ambition has already cost a man his life. Suddenly, I feel a chill as I notice a shadow fall across me, “Lady Ysedra, we should talk,” Mother Muriel says with that commanding tone of hers.
I rise to my feet and follow her out of the temple, into the surrounding gardens. “Yes revered mother?” I ask the priestess once we are alone.
She turns to face me, her fierce blue eyes piercing my soul, “How does my lord’s daughter come to engage in witchcraft? What devils do you parley with, or is it the Dark Brother himself who whispers in your ear?”
-Persuasion 15-
Taken aback, I protest, “No reverend mother, I follow the Elven path to unlock secrets arcane through ancient texts and words handed down to us from the time of the first children. I would never yield to the Dark Brother or offer myself to demons.”
Mother Muriel’s eyes narrow, fixed on mine, seeking any hint of deception, then she speaks again, “I sense that you truly believe the words spilling from your lips, but beware that even Elven magic in its purest form can lure you into corruption as you seek ever more power for yourself. You must guard yourself against such temptation. Drive from yourself the weakness within.” She pulls a small scourge from her belt, a tightly coiled handle with a string of black leather straps. “Drive evil from yourself in your nightly meditations. Remain true to Our Lady, and she will guard your soul in this life and lead you to her in the next.” She presses the scourge into my hand. “Use it well.”
“I…um…thank you, revered mother,” I stammer out as my hands wrap around the flagellant’s tool. “I shall…”
“You shall use this nightly. Do not stray from the true path of faith. Do not risk your soul like the rest of your kin. Hold to the faith, always,” Mother Muriel insists.
“Yes, revered mother,” I bow my head.
Q: Does she insist on immediate demonstration? Unlikely-YES E: Negative for Lord Mical: Procrastination over a Dispute (Avas Stonebreath situation?)
“Now! On knees!” the revered mother commands. I comply, as she instructs me to remove my blouse and take the scourge in hand. “Strike left, then right. Eight lashes for the eight laws,” she commands.
“Seven!” I protest, “A woman need not remember that rape is forbidden.”
“Eight strokes!” Mother Muriel insists, “Twice for the eighth law, lest you forget that one!”
-DC 10 Con save, Rolled a 9-
“Murder no innocent,” I bear the lash, “Steal from no kin, Do not lay with another’s, Do not cower in fear, Repay one’s debts, Do not maltreat slaves, Do not treat with demons. Do not treat with demons.” I repeat the laws with each stroke upon my bare skin. I can scarcely finish and by the time I am done, I am no longer seated on my knees, but holding myself up with my free hand.
Q: Does she command me to abandon magic? EXCEPTIONAL NO Q: Does she demand future inspections? YES
“If your soul is as weak as your flesh, you are in grave danger. You will return to me each God’s Day to prove your faith, and show your flesh and soul grow stronger,” Mother Muriel commands. “You may dress. You are dismissed.”
“Yes, Mother Muriel,” I stammer as I slowly pull my blouse back over my bloodied shoulders. As I try to stand, she lifts me up.
Q: Does she try to encourage me? NO
“Remember my warning. And your devotion,” Mother Muriel says as she watches me leave the temple grounds.
—
Q: Is Karta there? NO
I am sore when I arrive at the Devil’s Cup looking for Karta, but Henna tells me that the half orc isn’t there. so I ask her to leave a message for Karta to come and see me at the keep in the morning.
-Encounter-Barbarian-
Then I head over to Aborath’s lodging. Walking down the busy street, a Craglander bumps into me and keeps going, not even bothering to excuse himself. I glare at him briefly, but continue on, minding my own business as well.
Q: Is Aborath home? YES Q: Is he expecting me? YES
Knocking on the door to Aborath’s room, his servant answers and welcomes me inside. The wizard soon joins me in his parlor, and bowing lightly, “It is good to see you again, Lady Yseldra. I have been expecting you to visit now that Master Sewel is safe. Do you have something to offer as payment for my help?”
-Persuasion 12- (I’d say DC 15, but Aborath is known for kindness and generosity)
“I understand Master Sewel paid you a fair wage, but yes, perhaps I have knowledge to share with you now as a goodwill gesture and token of gratitude, and perhaps we may trade knowledge with one another in the future?” I suggest.
Aborath regards me suspiciously, and replies, “Perhaps a future trade of knowledge would be prudent, but for now, what do you offer?”
I sigh, and pull out my spellbook, opening the tome for his perusal. “Let take a look and see what may interest you.”
We sit down beside each other, and I watch to see which inscriptions catch his eye, and which ones he quickly passes over, indicating it is lore he either already possesses or has no interest in. Eventually, he settles on my guarding spell that warns of impending danger, “You have many interesting pieces of knowledge here. Perhaps future trades are in order,” he notes as he begins to scribe the spell into his own text.
We sit together in relative silence for a couple of hours, I stroke his cat which has settled into my lap, while listening to the scratching of his pen and the noise from the street outside. After a time, he suggests a cup of wine, and when he gestures towards it, he smiles as I summon the bottle and two cups to his desk, “A nice trick indeed,” he grins.
I bow my head as I pour, “One of my aunt’s favorite training spells.”
When he is finally done, I close up my book, and excuse myself. Then return home to the keep, my back still sore from my morning devotional.
-Encounter-Drunken Town Watchmen-
As I return to the keep, I find myself walking past a group of town watchmen, “Hey there!” one of the men slurs, clearly drunk, “You should come show some appreciation to the men who keep this town safe!”
“Yeah, pretty thing, come on over here and have a drink with us,” another adds.
Q: Do I recognize any of them? Unlikely YES (Generate the captain and one of the guards present) Intimidate 15
I turn to face them, “Watchman Metford!” I scowl, “You should be ashamed of yourself! Is this how you intend to prove to Captain Demetri, or to my father that you are worthy of promotion?”
Q: Do they suddenly sober up? Likely YES
The guardsmen blink in shock as they suddenly realize who I am and begin stammering out apologies, begging forgiveness before slinking away down the street. I shake my head and return to the keep, giving the incident no further thought.
19th thru 25th Heyday-Downtime Week 3
-No Event of importance- Roll a 14 vs DC 15 to find a potential recruit
The following morning, at breakfast, I learn that Avas Stonebreath, the emissary from Windlash, left the day before in frustration with his inability to get an audience with my brother, Mical, to work out a trade agreement.
As breakfast ends, I receive word that a visitor to the keep is asking for me, a half orc, the guard says. “A half orc?” Lady Erana scowls, “Why?”
“That would be my woman, Karta. Who is here to be tested by Captain Sonders,” I smile eagerly as I rise and a servant takes my plate.
Q: Do any others come? YES E: Remote Event: the Communication of Opposition
Severon scoffs, “Well, let’s see who this woman is that you think is capable of holding her own in a fight.” Father simply shakes his head as Severon, Erana, Sonders and I head outside. Othna and Verna also follow us out, apparently, all three of my sisters in law are curious to meet this woman waiting in the hall.
“Good morning, Karta,” I greet her with a smile and light nod.
Q: Does Karta bow? EXCEPTIONAL YES
On seeing me and my kin, dressed as our station often demands, the rugged half orc falls to her knees, “Your highness…ladyship…my lady,” she stammers, unsure how exactly to address me under the circumstance.
“Please stand. Karta, this is my brother, Lord Severon. His wife, Lady Othna, and my sisters in law, Ladies Erana and Verna. And this is Captain Sonders, who I have asked to test your skill at arms, should you accept the challenge,” I smile and gesture for her to follow through to the courtyard.
Q: Are any of my kin friendly towards her? YES
Verna smiles, “I think I like her already.” Erana and Othna glare at Bertran’s wife.
Q: Fair fight? YES (generate opponent)
In the courtyard, Captain Sonders gestures towards the drill grounds and calls over one of his men, “Oswyn. I’ve heard you boast about your ways with women, perhaps you should show this one how you wield an actual blade.”
Q: Does Oswyn blush? YES E: Setback to ‘Yseldra must find some allies’: a Trick regarding Liberty
The soldier comes over, picking up a training sword as Karta does the same. Each also grabs a shield. Suddenly, Severon suggests, “If your girl doesn’t win, I’ll be selecting your companions, and you’ll not be heading to Guldall until I say you are ready.”
I glare at him, but don’t protest, as I have faith in Karta. My faith is quickly justified as the half orc surges at her foe and slips two blows past his shield in quick succession. Then the two fall into a rhythm of attack, parry, probing and testing. Karta lands a third hit, then suffers a light blow across the arm, then a hard strike to her helm that clearly dazes he for a moment. Then as Oswyn comes in for the kill, Karta lashes out, bashing his blade aside with a hard strike to his gauntlet then a thrust to the chest that would have been lethal had the fight used real weapons.
I turn to Severon, “You’ll be buying Karta some real armor instead, dear brother,” I gloat, then turn to Karta, “Well done my friend.”
Q: Is Erana satisfied? EXCEPTIONAL YES E: Resolution of ‘Yseldra must find some spells’: a Trick regarding the Environment
“I…am…surprised,” Erana stammers in shock, “I would never expect…well. Keep Yseldra safe,” she says to Karta as the half orc joins us. Then she walks away.
“What was that about?” Karta asks in confusion.
“Never mind. She’ll come around as you prove your skill and loyalty,” I assure her.
Q: Will my brother pay for armor? YES Q: Does Othna object? NO
“Captain Sonders, does the armory have anything that will fit this woman? My sister’s bodyguard should be arrayed in mail. If she fights this well in a leather jerkin, she’ll be an absolute terror once she’s properly armed,” Severon observes. His wife rolls her eyes, but says nothing.
Karta grins, “Nice!”
Q: Is Verna supportive? NO
Bertran’s wife observes, “She did hold her own. In a one on one fight with no real stakes. Her real value remains to be proven.”
Q: Does Karta talk back? YES
“Do you want to test me yourself?” Karta offers with a cruel grin.
Q: Will Verna? NO Q: Is she amused? YES
“You do have courage,” Lady Verna concedes, “I pray you’ve the sense to let it serve you well, instead of leading you into folly.”
“She’ll follow orders,” I assure my sister in law. “On that we are agreed.” Then looking to Karta, “And your word on that, I trust.”
Q: Does Karta affirm her loyalty? EXCEPTIONAL YES
“Victory requires it,” Karta replies, then looking back towards Verna, “And I fight to win!”
Q: Is Dwarven Mail Available? Very Unlikely-YES
After my siblings leave us, I walk with Karta and Sonders to the armory, where he leads us to the back where some armor is stored. Karta admires the weaponry as we go, “Can I take a sword as well?”
Q: Is Sonders generous? NO
Sonders grabs a battle axe from a wall rack, “Earn a sword, but this axe will serve until you do.” Karta grins broadly. Then Sonders pulls a suit of mail from a rack, “Put this on woman. You’ll need to take off that jerkin first, but I think it might fit you.”
Karta looks between the two of us, then strips off her leather armor before sliding the mail shirt down over her head. Sonders quickly helps her strap it into place, then nods approvingly, “Very good. How does it feel?”
“Heavy,” Karta replies, moving around in it, “But not bad. It won’t slow me down any if that’s what you mean.”
“It will turn a blade. Dwarven make, better than most of our men wear. Take good care of it, and take good care of Yseldra,” Sonders fixes his eyes on me, “Perhaps this pawn will be your knight.”
Q: Does Karta understand? YES
Karta looks between us skeptically, then she replies, “I aim to.”
The rest of the week passes largely uneventfully, Karta returns to her lodging. But in my father’s study I discover a book that I had never noticed before. An ancient tome that had fallen behind another book on the shelf. Curious, I discover that it is a book of spells and magic theories written by someone named Evanwolt. It is written in Norgardian, and I resolve to ask Krenal about it, after I have copied everything I desire from it, lest he take it from me. The book soon finds a new home in my bedroom, rescued from the obscurity of falling behind an old shelf of poetry.
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