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Chapter 7x: Enan

Opening

letter
Dear Mother,

Remember when I used to tell you that I would become a noble in my own name?
That I would one day have my own lands, that we could spite those who spat on us.
All that rings hollow as I sit inebriated in some frontier inn, my purse growing lighter and my future in pieces.
Do the House of Herons laugh over the dinner table about the bastard that got what someone of her status deserves?
I am filled with bitterness at the thought.

Your daughter,
Ellerie

pomelo
You've taken us by complete surprise. Are you sure about this?
ellerie
It wasn't something I decided this morning. This whole expedition is a sinking ship,
and I can't keep it afloat when my budget is running drier with each loss.
pomelo
There is no need to assume the worst from a few minor setbacks.
lindros
How can you be disheartened so easily? Where is your courage?
ellerie
We lost most of our gold, made enemies of the Sect, and got ambushed by the Saltsworn, losing our vessel.
These aren't minor setbacks.
I would even dare say,
they are major setbacks.
lindros
You're the one who told us about Oriana looking for a cure for her kid.
Are you leaving things halfway?
ellerie
It's not like you two are here out out of the goodness of your heart.
I've already settled a major part of your debt for you, Pomelo.
You can solve the rest some way that doesn't involve some deadly ruin.
And Lindros, I know your obsession with the precursor civilisation, which matters more than some woman you've just met. Now, leave me be.
(Ellerie leaves.)
lindros
Damn it!
pomelo
She wasn't incorrect, but no need to be so rude about it.
lindros
I studied eleven years for this chance, and it's all going to waste.
pomelo
Have a drink. The Workshop won't grow wings and fly away.
lindros
Oh, it won't fly away. But I do wonder, where have the Saltsworn disappeared off to?
It only takes a few scoundrels like them to ruin precious knowledge lost for centuries!
(Mince approaches.)
mince
I take it you two couldn't convince her?
pomelo
We didn't stand a chance.
lindros
Surely, you have to convince her otherwise. She'll listen to you, right?
mince
My words aren't worth much, but I'll give it a try.
(Mince approaches Ellerie.)
mince
Drinking at midday, Captain?
ellerie
I don't drink. I'm just going through the motions to harness that feeling.
You're also here to convince me?
mince
Yeah.
ellerie
Let's hear it.
mince
What's the move after going back to the Mainland, now that your funds are dry?
ellerie
I'm sure there's plenty of supporters of the Princess and enemies of the Usurper left.
I'll just have to link them together and build back up. Take things a step at a time.
mince
In other words, you don't have much of a plan?
ellerie
Not exactly much I can plan around.
mince
It seems to me we have more of a direction here on the Crescent than to return.
Let those who want your head forget, and you can appear when they least expect it.
ellerie
I can't waste my time here while our foes celebrate over the Princess' corpse.
Tower said that the Workshop does not have weapons of war. A red herring.
mince
Even if we don't find whatever deadly artifact you want to for vengeance, we'd make a lot of gold from this.
That probably gets us to a better spot than going to the Mainland with nothing.
ellerie
This is all resting on the assumption we don't die horrible deaths on the Crescent.
mince
We've run into plenty of dangers.
But looking at it the other way, we survived horrid monsters, the Sect, and one of the Crescent's biggest adventuring companies.
What can't we handle?
ellerie
For a brief second, you fooled me.
Is this for my benefit, or is your soft heart looking out for someone?
mince
Why can it not be both?
But at the end of the day, it's still your choice to make.
ellerie
(closes eyes) (Damn it, Mince. Should I stay?)

Leave

lindros
So they've left.
pomelo
I guess Mince wasn't able to convince her.
lindros
Looks like I'm heading back to my master earlier than expected.
Really, a damned shame. Are you heading home after this?
pomelo
Yeah. Not looking forward to it.
lindros
I'll back you up. I'm sure Master doesn't need me immediately.
pomelo
It's not like it's going to be a deadly fight, just an uncomfortable family reunion.
lindros
And you wouldn't prefer a deadly fight?
pomelo
You got me. It's a shame about Oriana and her kid, not much else we can do.
lindros
That whole thing was a long shot. They weren't sure what's even in the Workshop.
Maybe they'll find another way.
pomelo
I can only hope so.
(The game ends, leading to a unique set of epilogue cards.)

Stay

(Mince meets with Pomelo and Lindros.)
pomelo
How did it go? Any luck?
mince
She said she'll think about it. Knowing her, that means she's already convinced.
lindros
That's fantastic. I suppose she just needed a more familiar voice.
pomelo
Forgive me, but I'm surprised you'd be willing to convince her of such.
Surely it's in her best interests to abandon the non-existent ship.
mince
If I can't convince her to not return and sign her own death warrant, this is the safer alternative.
pomelo
The good Captain must have some formidable foes for such a reaction.
lindros
Could it be one of the great noble houses, or perhaps even the Crown?
There is no other force on the Mainland with such a reach.
mince
I suppose there's not much use keeping it secret then. It's both.
pomelo
At her age? Did she spit on the King or something?
mince
In a sense, yes. You must have heard of the Mainland's succession crisis.
Ellerie happened to be one of the more vocal members of the losing side.
pomelo
That's pretty tame. I half-expected you to say she was the dead Princess.
lindros
You read too many stories. I see why she would come here.
There's no shortage of exiles.
pomelo
Well, traitor to the crown or not, not my problem. This ain't the Mainland.
mince
Shouldn't need saying, but keep this on the down-low, yeah?
pomelo
Sealed as a stone.
lindros
Don't seem like much point in these parts, but sure.

Ending Cards

Oriana, Wind Dancer
Undeterred by the dangers that awaited, Oriana continued the expedition into the Workshop for her daughter. Determination can only carry one so far and she met her end against the Workshop's deadly denizens.

Tower, the Tower
Tower pushed himself to his limits to make up for their lack of numbers. He made his final stand against the Saltsworn at the gates of the Workshop, buying enough time for the rest to enter. He would never know it was futile.

Pomelo, the Innovator
Pomelo returned to his home on the lake and found himself at the forefront of the Crescent Civil War. Pomelo would become respected amongst the lakefolk from his efforts to help his clan, but his inventions never caught on.

Lindros, Star Pupil
Lindros travelled to his master's new abode on the Crescent. What dark experiments might be performed behind those closed doors were the talk of many, though Lindros himself wouldn't be seen again.

Mince, Rebel Chef
Mince returned with Ellerie back to the mainland and remained her staunchest supporter in the ensuing rebellion. He would quickly become a prime target for royalist forces and was found dead tasting his stew, which had been poisoned.

Galeforce Gecko
Gecko made her name in the Green Tide. Surviving countless dangers through luck and grit, she became a famed adventurer. Not content with just the Crescent, Gecko set out for distant lands and created a new tale.

Raylin, Furtive Flier
After making an adventurer's fortune, Raylin knew it was time to quit this deadly profession and bought a nice farm on the Crescent. The new civil war led to her early demise as she defended her home against marauders.

Reiker, Reckless Rider
Reiker's courage found him great fame in the war against the Green Tide but his recklessness would never be tempered. During the peak of his fame he led a foolhardy expedition deeper into the Crescent from which only his horse returned.

Yvette, the Battle-hungry
Not knowing the definition of a losing battle, Yvette joined Oriana's ill-fated expedition. She was the first to fall, being run down by Saltsworn cavalry. To Yvette, going out in a blaze of glory wasn't a bad way to go.

Telon, the Fool
Telon continued on his aimless adventure for self-betterment, challenging any who he deemed to be a worthy opponent. He made many enemies and a quick ambush led to his body being dumped in the sea.

Chalice, Hardy Healer
Unable to convince Telon to return, Chalice became one of Irinde's most respected healers. She would be critical to Irinde's survival during the Crescent Civil War, saving many and rising in the ranks of Irinde's forces.

Vermillion, Faceless Hunter
His bloodlust not yet satiated, Vermillion hunted victims indiscriminately on the Crescent. Tales of a faceless killer soon spread and many a bounty was placed, but none could find any trace of him.

Iosaf, Second Best
With one of the few crews that would accept them gone, Iosaf returned to the wild. They tried many a time to make peaceful contact with the humans. Their efforts proved successful and they were known as a protector of the people.

Marlow, Dutiful Uncle
For what was perhaps the first time in his life, Marlow took his duties seriously. It was also for the last time, as he was killed in action shielding Krynia against the Saltsworn. He regretted not being able to do more.

Rohesia, the Headtaker
Rohesia was the sole surviving member of her family, left for dead at the gates of the Workshop. She embarked on a bloody crusade aginst the Saltsworn and was a major factor in their eventual fall from power.

Krynia, the Awoken
The loss of her family proved to be too much for her and her illness entered its final stage. A terrifying beast emerged from the Workshop, laying waste to the Crescent and taking hundreds of lives before her inevitable fall.

Wily Whipjack
Whipjack was a survivor. He lived through the Green Tide, the Crescent Civil War and the invasion of House Heron as a simple vagabond. To this day, he lives on the road, making himself seem a bigger deal than he is with little success.

Francisca, the Successful
Francisca joined Frosthaven's mercenary forces during the Crescent Civil War, where she eventually rose to the rank of Captain. However, work became too dangerous and she took her hard-earned wealth and fled.

Acielle, Unfulfilled Chosen
Acielle took a few jobs here and there, but very few took her wild claims seriously. While some of her exploits added to her credibility, it also attracted attention from the Sect, who had her burned for heresy.

Ellerie, Former Captain
Ellerie returned to the mainland to exact her vengeance, inciting rebellion in the name of the late princess. This found some success, but ultimately she was outmatched by royalist forces and publically beheaded.

New Guide Entries

Enan

Enan is supported primarily by its salt mines. However in recent times they have become more famed for the 'Saltsworn', the largest adventuring company on the Crescent.

Tensions are currently high in Enan. Commander Caliane's son is quite sickly, and many of Saltsworn's veterans disagree with leadership being inherited by blood ties. The Faithful are also a major presence, quietly competing with the Saltsworn for authority.

Main Area

Lindros, Ulach, & Iosaf

iosaf
And so I said, “That's because I'm the best around,” and made its head go pop.
ulach
An interesting tale. One more question, my one-eyed friend.
What does it mean for you to be the best?
It seems to have come up quite frequently.
iosaf
Since I've had a working memory, I was something utterly superior to the rest of the one-eyed dullards.
It was a very lonely existence.
That is what it means to be the best. Learn and perfect, while others languish.
ulach
I fully understand how it feels to be far above the rest.
lindros
(Yeah, I'm damned used to hearing that.)
ulach
Did you say something?
lindros
Just muttering to myself.
What is your plan now that you are no longer the best?
iosaf
I don't know. The original plan was to retake my title as the best, but it doesn't feel as important.
(smiles) It feels good to have people like you to listen to what I have to say.
ulach
You're an interesting fellow. This was an enlightening conversation.
lindros
There's some villagers coming this way. You should make yourself scarce.
iosaf
(frowns) It's getting really annoying having to do this. Let us talk again sometime.
(Iosaf leaves.)
ulach
(smiles) Fascinating. I had my doubts about your letters, but this is beyond expectation.
lindros
(smiles) Now you see why I am so excited.
Capable of reasoning and speech. It defies all our research up to now.
ulach
(frowns) Yet it has seen little human interaction.
Could it possibly have mastered speech, just from observing human behavior and from reading ancient scriptures?
lindros
(serious) There has to be something else to it.
ulach
A fine specimen indeed. Keep an eye on it, this isn't an opportunity to go to waste.
lindros
Of course, Master.

Francisca & Whipjack

whipjack
My father is a wealthy merchant.
He'll reward you handsomely if you are to bring me south.
francisca
I've told you already. I don't run errands without payment upfront.
(Whipjack moves closer.)
whipjack
Please, I have a sickly wife, and seven children! They need me.
francisca
Don't come any closer. My wyvern is getting agitated, probably from the smell.
whipjack
Coin over empathy! I will look elsewhere.
(Whipjack leaves. Ellerie approaches.)
ellerie
Are you still free for a job?
francisca
You need to be escorted south? I can do that.
ellerie
It's not that. I've decided to still go north, and I need some capable hands.
francisca
Sheesh, and I thought you were a smart woman for getting out before it's too late.
I've repaid what I owe, this is a hard sell.
ellerie
Each crew will get an even split of the treasure the Workshop has to offer.
francisca
I've heard the rumors, but for all I know it could be just a pile of rubble.
ellerie
Final offer, I'll triple your down payment on top of what I originally offered.
francisca
... As long as you don't expect me to stick around for payment if things go south.
ellerie
If things go south, I don't think I'll be alive to pay anything. That's a deal?
francisca
That's a deal. I need to start charging more for my life.
(Whipjack comes back.)
whipjack
Can I get the same deal?
ellerie
You're a... swordsman? What skills can you offer?
whipjack
I'm not just a swordsman, they call me the Azure Streak!
francisca
Didn't you tell me you had a wife and seven children to get back to?
whipjack
You simply must have misheard.
ellerie
I'm only paying Francisca that much because she has a wyvern.
I can't give you the same rates.
francisca
Hear that, dear? You're more valuable than I am.
whipjack
I don't even need a down payment. Just an even cut of the treasure.
francisca
If nothing else, he'll destabilize enemy morale with his stench.
ellerie
(With any luck, he won't make it back for me to have to pay him.)
Fine, welcome to the Seahawks.
whipjack
Fame and glory, here I come!

Vermillion, Mince, & Rohesia

(Mince chases Vermillion back and forth, but Vermillion evades his grasp every time.)
mince
(serious) Hold still!
vermillion
Just try it, you armored lump!
mince
Making a fool of me, out of my kitchen!
vermillion
I will feed where I please.
mince
My prized premium rice! Just *huff* you wait.
(Rohesia approaches.)
rohesia
What's got you worked up, young man? You're sweating a waterfall.
mince
Just trying to catch this damned chicken.
rohesia
(smirks) I can help with that.
(Rohesia suddenly moves behind Vermillion and catches him.)
vermillion
Impossible! How can my legendary speed be matched by that of a human?
rohesia
You're in poor shape if you're not even as fast as this elderly woman.
mince
I'm carrying all this metal-
rohesia
(scowls) No excuses! Excuses breed weakness.
mince
(smiles) Alright, alright. I'm out of shape.
(Mince grabs Vermillion.)
mince
That's it for you, bud. Into the pot you go.
vermillion
It can't end like this! Time to use my secret technique. Look into my eye!
Aren't I so helpless and adorable?
rohesia
(smiles) Aww, look at this cute fella. Do we really need the extra morsel?
vermillion
Huzzah! Of course a weak-willed mortal would fall to my charms.
mince
(frowns) Oh come on, they're bred to be eaten.
rohesia
I feel like this one's more intelligent than most.
mince
Fine, there's probably fatter game around.
(Mince lets Vermillion go.)
rohesia
My granddaughter's a bit down, maybe she could use a pet.
Appreciate it, good chef. Don't forget to exercise more!
vermillion
A pet human may be worthy of my status.
(Vermillion and Rohesia leave.)
mince
This isn't over. No one raids my kitchen and escapes unscathed.
Watch your back, chicken.

Big Berd & Locust

locust
No way. Is that- How is she here?
big berd
Who do you see?
locust
It's the red-haired captain.
big berd
You have to be mistaken. Here?
locust
We should get moving, before-
(Ellerie approaches.)
ellerie
Is something wrong?
locust
I was pointing out to my pal how cool your weapon was.
big berd
Yeah, I really appreciate looking at weapons. They're all pointy and stuff.
ellerie
Glad the eyepatches don't deter you.
(Ellerie leaves.)
big berd
What was that excuse, looking at weapons?
locust
Look, excuses on the fly are hard. She bought it, so it works out.
(Ellerie comes back.)
ellerie
Wait, don't you two look familiar?
locust
No! We've never met before.
big berd
No! We've never met before.
ellerie
You sound really sure. Am I that distinctive?
locust
We're humble farmers who've lived here our entire lives.
We would have remembered if we'd met someone like you.
big berd
We're pretty unremarkable. You must have mixed us up with someone else.
ellerie
I must have. On second inspection, you two do look like the farming type.
big berd
Who are these people you're looking for?
ellerie
A pair of rascals that've been haunting me. When I catch them, there will be pain.
locust
Ah. I hope you get to them soon.
ellerie
Sorry about that. I should be going.
(Ellerie leaves.)
big berd
I think we should stay away from the Seahawks from now on.
locust
You think? I thought she was actually gonna draw on us.
(Ellerie comes back.)
ellerie
Hold on a minute.
locust
W- What is it?
ellerie
It would be a favor if you could notify me if you see a pair with your likeness.
I'm going to mount their heads on my bowsprit.
big berd
Yeah! Of course.
ellerie
Thank you.
(Ellerie leaves.)
big berd
Let's get out of here.
locust
A great idea.
(Big Berd and Locust leave.)
ellerie
(smiles) Not like I could have done anything to them, but their expressions were worth it.

Militia

militia
The finest BALLISTA! Two for the price of one! Just 1000 gold!
ellerie
I think the town would probably need it more with what's coming.
militia
Well the town also ain't paying me. These beauties could be yours.
1000 gold for this masterpiece.

If you have less than 1000 gold

ellerie
My funds are looking too dry to afford stolen ballista.
militia
Have you tried being less poor?

Yes

ellerie
I don't know how I'm going to bring this with me, but I'll try.
militia
Splendid! The payment does not include transport.
narrator
A ballista will be available on two of the following maps.

No

ellerie
I'm questioning if this is yours to sell.
militia
Shut up! No one is going to notice.

Villagers

man
These are the last boats out. We're not getting on with these exorbitant fees.
woman
These damn merchants are profiting from this calamity!
young woman
I would rather take my chances with the Green Tide than to pay those prices.
woman
Aren't the Saltsworn meant to be protecting us? Where are they?
young woman
They'll be back soon, have faith.
I'd rather put my faith in them than the illusory safety of the Faithful.
woman
Because the Saltsworn keep trying to push them out!
They would be able to protect Enan otherwise.
man
I wouldn't bet my life on money-hungry adventurers or the shady Faithful.
When tough times come, one must take action themselves.
young woman
You're defending the town? I didn't know you had it in you.
man
No, I'm building a raft.

Saltsworn

saltsworn 1
Halt, traveller! Where are your travel certifications?
ellerie
A frontier town needs travel certifications?
saltsworn 2
It's his first time on duty. He just wanted to mess with people.
saltsworn 1
Oi, don't sell me so quickly. I totally had her there.
ellerie
Is there anything you actually need?
saltsworn 2
We do have some serious business.
There are dangerous killers on the loose. The Seabirds or something.
saltsworn 1
Not sure how we're supposed to identify them since we don't have portraits or a detailed description to work off.
ellerie
I did not see any dangerous killers. I'm not sure what else I'm supposed to say.
saltsworn 1
Well that was a great use of time.
saltsworn 2
You're the idiot that started this. I was trying to cover for you.
ellerie
I have better things to be doing.
(Ellerie leaves.)
saltsworn 1
Now that I think of it, didn't they say their leader had red hair?
saltsworn 2
Ha, you think she's it? She looks like she could barely snap a twig.
saltsworn 1
Yeah, there's no way they would dare show their faces here.

Maple Inn

Yvette, Pomelo, & Marlow

yvette
(smirks) I can hardly believe my eyes!
The Marlow, not drunk, not asleep, and taking to the battlefield?
pomelo
(smirks) Had to pinch myself to be sure.
marlow
(smiles) Laugh it up, you two. What are the odds I'd meet two old friends here!
Did the mainland not work out?
yvette
The mainland is lame. You get arrested for bar brawls! It's utter horsecrap.
How did your inventions go over, Pom? You haven't really talked about them.
pomelo
(frowns) Maybe my hopes were too high, but it all went poorly.
The artisans called my ideas too outlandish, too impractical.
marlow
(frowns) Not even the landboat won them over? I thought that was brilliant.
pomelo
Couldn't find any willing investors. The gold you guys forked over, I blew it.
I'll make back the difference, I swear it.
yvette
I completely forgot about that. C'mon, what's a bit of gold between buddies?
marlow
(smiles) Didn't mean to bring it up in this way, but forget about it. That's way in the past.
yvette
He's only saying that because I did.
marlow
Hey, it's not like that gold was going to anything productive. Don't sweat it, pal.
pomelo
(smiles) Really glad to hear that. The whole endeavor was a disaster, but I made some friends.
yvette
Like the stuck-up glasses fella?
Surprised you two got so buddy-buddy, didn't think your personalities matched.
pomelo
Hey, he's a great bloke once you get to know him. And he understands my ideas.
marlow
And we don't? Abandoning your old pals for a new love, how cruel!
pomelo
I keep all my friends in my heart, even if we've been separated for so long.
yvette
Aw, that was sappy, but appreciated.
pomelo
What's everyone's plans? You're still heading north, Marlow?
marlow
Yep, family business. I have to be a good uncle, if nothing else.
yvette
We've got Mister Responsibility over here. I'm coming, of course.
marlow
I would talk you out of it, but knowing you it's needless effort. Glad to have you along.
pomelo
Count me in. I owe you guys, and Lindros is almost definitely coming too.
marlow
The gang's been reassembled. If we all die, we die in good company.
yvette
Damn right. Let's drink, to us!

Gil Goldfist

gil goldfist
This old world weapon could be yours. 4000 gold.
ellerie
That's a ludicrous claim. You can't expect me to believe that?
gil goldfist
Here, take a look.
ellerie
(The touch of magic, these runes. Could this be the real deal?)
gil goldfist
Oh, I saw your eyes light up. You know this is the real deal.
ellerie
I'm curious how you got your hands on this, and why you're selling it.
I need a bit of background to make sure.
gil goldfist
It's a family heirloom. My father perished in combat wielding this sword.
As did my grandfather. As did my great-
you get the idea. I'm not going to be next.
ellerie
(Can't believe this idiot's only selling this for 4000 gold, he has no idea.)
gil goldfist
You're probably thinking, “this idiot's only selling this for 4000 gold, he has no idea.”
Well I need that damned gold now because I'm getting the first boat out of here, and those bloody sailors don't believe me about the sword and won't buy it.
Well? 4000 gold. I haven't got all day.

If you have less than 4000 gold

ellerie
Haven't got the gold for it, I'm afraid.
gil goldfist
Then why are you wasting my time?

Yes

ellerie
I will happily take that off your hands.
gil goldfist
You better be happy. You know how good of a deal you're getting.
(Ellerie receives the Puolang.)

No

ellerie
I'm not quite willing to put out that much gold for this.
gil goldfist
It's your loss. I'm sure I'll find someone else.

Puolang
Just a really, really good sword. Uses Mag. Spd+15.

Elder

elder
Our fields, ruined! Our homes, destroyed! Oh, Goddess save us!
What did we do to deserve this?

(He spots Ellerie.)

Good adventurer, surely you'd be willing to part with coin to help those in need?
Is that not what a hero would do?
A measly 2000 gold donation.

If you have less than 2000 gold

ellerie
We don't even have 2000 gold, Elder.
elder
Hah! The pursestring draws tight in the face of charity.

Yes

ellerie
It's what upstanding adventurers would do.
elder
May the goddess light your path, charitable adventurer!

No

ellerie
We're short on funds.
elder
How the youth stray from the teachings of the goddess, to value coin over morality!

Library

Bookshelf 1

book
Water Seal by F. Tasy.
A war epic about a young noble reclaiming his homeland from the evil empire which might be controlled by a dark dragon.
On his way he will fight vicious villains like Dark Wizard, Dark Wizard 2 and what is the most iconic villain, Dark Wizard 3.
ellerie
I can't be here wasting my time. I've got matters to attend to.

Bookshelf 2

book
The Dread Grimoire by U. R. Lost.
Imprinted upon the skin of tortured victims, this cursed tome draws in readers by feeding upon their fears.
The very comprehension of its foul words opens gateways summoning horrors from beyond the veil.
Those who read these words are either driven to permanent madness, or are rendered mindless husks.
Fortunately, the language in which it is written is now utterly extinct.
ellerie
It's all squiggly lines. Why am I looking at this?
It did seem to get rather cold all of a sudden.

Bookshelf 3

book
Sapphire Shores by R. V. Ian.
This is a playscript centered around a bureaucrat driven from her home.
She forms her adventuring crew and sails to unknown lands, seeking both wealth and glory.
ellerie
Doesn't this seem eerily similar. I'm interested to see where this goes.
book
The climax occurs at the destination of the expedition. The crew is locked into a hopeless battle against overwhelming odds.
During this, the protagonist realizes that it is not what she seeks that matters, but the experiences along the way.
As such, she fights to the end and dies, fulfilled.
ellerie
What's fulfilling about being killed in the middle of nowhere over scraps?
What happened to all that set up about her motivations for coming here?
Bah, what a terrible ending.

Bookshelf 4

book
Mysteries of the Crescent by I. Rite.
Written by a famous adventurer, this book describes his travels to many of the Crescent's deadliest locations, including the Workshop.
ellerie
This is exactly what we need.
To think I would just find it here, perhaps fate is guiding me.
book
The introductory paragraphs of this chapter promised knowledge about the Workshop's layout, defenders and traps.
Unfortunately, some spilled drink has rendered this particular chapter unreadable.
ellerie
I wish whoever did this could choke on their drink.

Door

(Ellerie opens the door to the study and sees Dreadlich III.)
ellerie
Huh?
(Dreadlich startles.)
dreadlich iii
!!!
(Dreadlich runs away.)
ellerie
Hey you dropped-
(Ellerie picks up a Torment tome as Dreadlich III warps away. Hearing the commotion, Aigo walks over.)
aigo
Did I leave the door unlocked again?
Sorry, young Miss, but this is a private study, with some more personal belongings.
I'd appreciate not coming here.
ellerie
Oh! Sorry, I thought it was another part of the library.
aigo
It's no issue. I must be getting old. I keep forgetting to lock this door.

Aigo

aigo
Welcome. Captain Ellerie?
ellerie
You've heard of me?
aigo
Chief Oren sends the occasional letter by pigeon, and sometimes, they even arrive.
He wrote that it was a pity that another good crew decided to die in the Workshop, but, ah, shouldn't you be using the river?
ellerie
There were inconveniences. While Oren may not be confident in our skills, I am.
aigo
To be young and bold. Ah well. Feel free to browse my library.
ellerie
It's a sizable collection. Are you affiliated with the Oakhall Sages?
aigo
Ha, those pretentious bastards who never let anyone touch their hoard?
I'd rather burn my books than let them get their filthy hands on them.
They spout lofty goals, yet they are nothing but leeches. What gives them-
I've gone off course. It is a rather sensitive topic for me, I'm afraid.
ellerie
(Lindros is in for a rough time.) I shouldn't have assumed.
aigo
No worries. It is a common assumption.
I know you have plenty on your plate, but since your character is vouched for by Oren, I have a task of my own.
With a generous reward, of course.
ellerie
Perhaps if it's in our ability, which isn't very much as of the moment.
aigo
You can tell how much I dislike those who limit knowledge to the masses.
This unfortunately includes some mutual friends, like the Sect, and close-minded organizations.
ellerie
(I have the feeling that definition is very broad.) So, what would you like me to do?
aigo
I'm asking if you'd be willing to donate any... interesting documents.
Preferably those with secrets some people don't want the public to know.
I'll trade you a “practical” tome for each.

Yes

ellerie
It's not like we have much to lose from doing so.
aigo
I am glad you are up to the task.

No

ellerie
I don't want to worsen our existing situation.
aigo
That's understandable.

Quest

Aigo asked me to liberate certain “interesting” documents from a wide variety of sources.
(Chapters 8, 10, 12)

Hammer Helli

ellerie
Would you be the smith, Hammer Helli?
helli
Always that silly title. But yes, I am a smith, called Helli. Anything you need?
ellerie
I was hoping to have an expert take a look at a sword to see if it can be repaired.
helli
Unfortunately, I can't help you. It's shaped like a sword, but what's inside this ain't like any sword I've seen.
Perhaps the legendary forges of the Workshop may help you. But that's a mere pipe dream.
ellerie
The forges of the Workshop, you say? A shame I'm not setting foot there.
helli
Its blue flames is said to melt down any material... But a pointless suggestion.
There may be something else I could do.
The boredom of retirement has given me the inspiration to produce my next work.
If you provide the materials, it's yours.
ellerie
I'm not sure what materials I can provide the local vendors cannot.
helli
Ha, this isn't the junk at your local armory. No, this is something special.
I need some rarer materials than usual.
Will you collect the materials?

Yes

ellerie
I'm all for it. What do you need?
helli
I would need rare ores at the minimum, as well as uncut gems, mana cubes and coffee.
Miss one of the last three ingredients, and what I make won't be as good as it could.
ellerie
I think I'm missing a few of those, but wait, you need coffee to forge?
helli
No, I just heard Irinde's coffee was fantastic and want you to bring some.
You won't have them all now, just prepare them for when we next meet.

No

ellerie
I have no guarantee I would even come back here, my apologies.
helli
I'm sure you could find the time.

Quest

Helli asked me to gather materials to forge a weapon.
-Rare ores
-Mana cubes (optional)
-Uncut gems (optional)
-Coffee (optional)

Quest

Something about the forges of the Workshop? We'll get there soon.
(Chapter 9)

Disciples

disciple 1
He can't see us from here. I think we're in the clear from that bloody old geezer.
disciple 2
He dares to try and sweep the Sect out the front door. Bah!
If this was the mainland, he'd be burned for heresy long ago.
disciple 1
This town is filled to the brim with god worshippers. We have little power here.
disciple 2
With any luck, that will change.
Now onto what we're here for, did you find anything on the tome?
disciple 1
Nothing we don't know already.
Will annihilate almost anything, can summon copies of itself.
Better luck tracking it on your end?
disciple 2
It fled into one of the abandoned houses near the Workshop.
But we had to run when the Tide hit. We lost Andrew and Clyde.
disciple 1
What tragedy, Clyde was a good man. Andrew, couldn't care less. What's our plan then?
disciple 2
Elis knows what damage someone could do if they got their hands on the tome, but only a fool would attempt to chase after it in these conditions.
disciple 1
We will do what we can against the Green Tide for now, but the tome must be destroyed.
ellerie
Well that's a bit interesting.

Should I search for the tome?

Yes

ellerie
How scary can it be?

No

ellerie
Not worth the trouble.

Quest

There are rumors of a rogue tome hiding in a house near the Workshop.
(Chapters 8,9)

Ending

oriana
With so few of us heading to the Workshop, at least we'll be a smaller target.
krynia
Mother, there's no point in going! You're just going to get everyone killed!
tower
I've only got a few years left in these old bones. Might as well make good use of it.
krynia
Can we not spend my last days as a one happy family? I'm begging you!
oriana
I'm sorry, dear. It's not up to you. If there's even a slim chance of success, I will take it.
krynia
I don't want everything to end like this. I don't want people to die for my sake.
tower
You're worrying too much. We have full confidence in our success.
krynia
That can't be true. No adventuring party has breached the Workshop to date!
tower
We've always been the main power in the crew. We're just dropping the deadweight.
oriana
Besides, of course those who fail to enter the Workshop will exaggerate its dangers.
krynia
I don't buy it. You can't fool-
I-
(closes eyes) Aaah! It's here again!
oriana
Lie down!

Tower-

tower
I already have everything prepared. Get to cutting.

Night

oriana
So, Tower, “full confidence in our success?”
tower
“Exaggerated dangers?”
oriana
She didn't believe us for a second.
(Ellerie approaches.)
tower
Bah, what do you want?
ellerie
I've come to apologize for my abrupt departure earlier.
oriana
There's nothing to apologise for. No one could have expected this... situation.
ellerie
After some encouragement from the crew, I have reconsidered my position.
I shall continue this journey after all.
tower
You promised the same after we fought the Sect.
We can't have a Captain with feet on two different ships.
ellerie
You didn't give me a choice. I was going to risk a mutiny from both veterans.
oriana
That's not what we intended!
ellerie
But that's in the past! This time, the choice is entirely my own.
oriana
It would be remiss to not remind you that this time, there'll be no chance for escape.
ellerie
Oriana, you know I sunk almost all my gold into the Seahawk, and have very little left.
I've rehired the crew who are somehow still willing to jump into this cesspit.
I'm betting it all on our victory. Failure means I might as well die anyways.
tower
That's awfully dramatic for simply being broke.
ellerie
I'm a disgraced noble bastard, but still a noble. Being broke is death.
oriana
Then welcome back aboard the non-existent ship. Tower, show her our backup plan.
tower
If you say so. This totem was ripped from the Workshop itself, bringing some firepower.
ellerie
You've been carrying this thing around the whole damn time?
We didn't need it in any other life or death situation?
tower
Don't be ridiculous. I simply haven't figured out how it actually works.
Ancient artifacts aren't so simple as waving one's hand around.
ellerie
Then let's formulate our plan of action.
(Lindros approaches.)
lindros
Time for me to jump in. You're looking at the foremost scholar of the Workshop.
tower
You do know your fair share regarding the Crescent's history, but I'm skeptical you know more than an actual veteran.
lindros
I'm not sure you understand.
I spent the past eleven years hunting down information about the Workshop.
The mythical centre of technology and sorcery! Where we can redisco-
oriana
What do you suggest is our approach?
lindros
I'm glad someone appreciates my intelligence and hard work.
Previous failures were all by tackling the Workshop with force.
However, I suggest that...
narrator
The following minutes were a blur of magical jargon and dubious sources as Lindros tried to explain his understanding of the Workshop's defenses.
Ellerie was absolutely not following Lindros's ramblings, but with him getting annoyed at any interruption and the fact that the others appeared to understand, she nodded along feigning comprehension.
oriana
So what you're saying is, you can link Tower's totem to the Workshop,
such that the rest of its defences recognise us as friendly faces?
ellerie
Then why didn't you say that instead of standardization of signature or whatever?
lindros
It's not my problem that your education was so lacking that it didn't even include Jurgin's Third Theorem of Mana Conversion.
ellerie
Fine, I'm an ignoramus. So what are your odds of getting this to work?
lindros
One hundred percent. Failure is inconceivable for someone of my skill.
ellerie
I cannot take that estimation seriously.
tower
From what I can gather from your ramblings, it seems like a sound plan.
lindros
A compliment from Tower? What a strange day.
tower
But we have to step through the hell that is the Green Tide by taking this route.
ellerie
That small matter of the Green Tide? I have arranged for that already.
oriana
You did?
lindros
You did not need to say that so dramatically.
ulach
To warp a party of your size across the woods is a feat that no other can replicate.
ellerie
Given many used your portals to escape to Enan, you must be capable of this.
ulach
I do not believe you understand how much magic and materials you are asking from me.
Even if you are captaining my student's crew, I will not hand out favours for free.
ellerie
I understand that. Lindros has undoubtedly already told you why we have ended up here.
ulach
I know not what madness has overtaken the Saltsworn.
ellerie
Why else would the Saltsworn attack us, ignoring the Tide, if not for the Workshop?
Without your expertise, they will ransack the Workshop while we die in the woods.
ulach
...
ellerie
Surely, the rewards of the Workshop is worth your aid?
Lindros will ensure that no knowledge goes to waste.
ulach
You, or rather, the actions of the Saltsworn, make a compelling case.
Gather your crew by midnight.
ellerie
You are truly gracious, Archsage Ulach.

Character Descriptions

Ulach
A senior researcher of Oakhall, Lindros's teacher, four-time winner of the Arcane Research prize, etc.

Archsage
They tend to have magical powers. Yes, the beard is essential.

Aigo
An aging librarian who detests Oakhall, the Sect and the Faithful equally. Used to be known as Fern the Flesh Flayer.

Hammer Helli
A blacksmith famed for making hammers and beating people to death with said hammers.

Gil Goldfist
The grandson of the legendary hero that saved the Crescent. Nothing to do with him anyway.

Elder
His defining trait is that he is actually quite old.

Blaine
The man, the legend, the Blaine. Seriously, who is this person?

Big Berd
An incredibly large fellow, who must have spent a fortune on red paint. Can't hit the broad side of a barn.

Locust
I could've sworn there was someone standing right here. Maybe I didn't get enough sleep.

Dreadlich III
A perfectly average traveller on the Crescent. They have a very interesting choice of headwear.

Saltsworn
One of the biggest adventuring guilds on the Crescent. Trades quality for quantity.

Salt Elite
The finest the Saltsworn has to offer. Not really that good, but there's a lot.

Militia
Faceless fodder who will be the first to die when any kind of true threat arises.

Villager
Not so harmless now, huh?

Civilian
Civilian becomes a synonym for collateral damage very quickly.

Disciple
Extremists of the Disciples of Elis out to serve 'divine will' or some nonsense.

Mythic Merc
An amateur band of sellswords whose only objective is to live up to their lofty name.

Bolgo's Boys
You don't mess with Bolgo's boys, or else it'll be your dem-oi-se.

Corky's Crew
Merry men who rob the rich (everyone) and give to the poor (themselves).

Child
A bundle of hopes and dreams.

Chicken
Bawk.