!DOCTYPE html>

Chapter 14x: The Seahawk

Opening

The opening checks whether you have done the following tasks:

  1. Rescued at least 2 civilians in Chapter 6
  2. Donated to the Elder in Chapter 7x
  3. Delivered food in Chapter 14
(Ellerie confers with Wheatley.)
ellerie
I trust matters with the local populace are under control?

If you completed all the above tasks

wheatley
My followers are spreading your good word.
Although interestingly, there's less resistance to your takeover than I would have thought.
ellerie
We have helped the people of Enan a few times. Earned us some favor.
wheatley
It makes minimizing conflict easier for me.

If you completed two of the above tasks

wheatley
My followers are spreading your good word.
There's a lot of pushback, but not all are entirely opposed.
ellerie
I had hoped that us helping Enan in the past will do us a small favor here.
wheatley
It at least makes you not seem like a heartless killer.

If you completed one or fewer of the above tasks

wheatley
My followers are spreading your good word.
However, the general consensus is that you get out of here as soon as possible.
ellerie
Can't say that's surprising.
As long as you make sure nothing undesirable goes on behind our backs.
wheatley
That's easily within my efforts.
wheatley
I do hope our partnership will be long and prosperous, so it would be rather inconvenient if you perished in your war up east.
ellerie
It would be rather inconvenient for me as well, I'll try to avoid that.
wheatley
I would ask the Goddess to be with you, but I doubt you put any stock into it.
ellerie
The thought is appreciated.
(Ellerie leaves to conver with Dune and Johnny Spices.)
dune
The Sect is not going to be very happy about us working with the Faithful.
ellerie
The Sect is never happy about anything. What's another matter to add to the pile?
As long as we can get Enan on our side.
johnny spices
How quickly can our forces move again? The Cormorants have a sound reputation.
dune
The troops just won a battle. They're going to need time to rest and replenish supplies.
Best to rest in the day and travel by night.
ellerie
I understand your concern, but it would do no good to be eager and walk into an enemy ambush.
Traveling by night is preferable, given how conspicuous an airship is.
johnny spices
I know that to be true, but I can't stop worrying.
I may not have left the way I wanted, but they're my clan.
ellerie
You have Irinde's support, Spices.
Since you were known as “Bloody John”, I can only assume you had some influence.
dune
More than that, he was the number two in Johnsbury. The most favored son.
ellerie
Why would you leave all that behind to become some merchant here in Irinde?
johnny spices
Had too much disagreement with Father about the future of our clan.
You know how the John Clan are paid with Guild gold to be pirates in all but name to enforce the Guild's monopoly,
I believed that was not sustainable.
It got tense enough that one of us had to go, and I'd rather be the one to leave than to break the clan apart.
dune
You were right to leave a sinking ship.
At least the Pirate Sages, for all their wicked deeds, raided in their own name rather than be some flunkey of the Guild.
ellerie
If you are to arrive and save the day, perhaps that is enough of an influence for a change in leadership and allegiance.
johnny spices
I'd rather believe I can convince my father to change from the old ways than to make some kind of power play.
dune
Spices, your father named his clan, his settlement and all of his descendants after himself.
I don't think he's the kind of person to admit his wrongs.
ellerie
... Wow.
johnny spices
That's a tad harsh, but there's some truth. Let's discuss this after we've taken down the Cormorants.
(Ellerie confers with Oriana.)
oriana
Congratulations on your promotion.
Although, I do wish you would have warned the crew beforehand.
ellerie
It was a rather time-sensitive opportunity, but I do think it turned out perfectly.
oriana
Can't speak for the rest of the crew, but I myself am not comfortable tying ourselves down to a faction.
Loses the adventurer's freedom of being disconnected with coastal politics and also a parallel to the Saltsworn.
ellerie
And the Saltsworn had the power to kick a rogue warband like us to hell and back.
I think this change is essential for moving us up the hierarchy.
oriana
What I'm here for is another matter.
A significant amount of the crew believe some extra compensation is in order, given the increase in scope of our foes.
ellerie
They couldn't take it up with me themselves?
oriana
Asking for a raise directly is never quite the most comfortable feeling.
There's many minute matters I take care of before they go up the chain, but this is a rather important matter.
ellerie
I suppose you are the quartermaster after all.
oriana
It's a sound course of action.
The crew will invest some of the extra gain into themselves, reducing their odds of being killed by a stray arrow.
At least, I hope they have that much self-preservation.
ellerie
I'm not so stingy that I need extra convincing.
Let them know there'll be an announcement shortly.
oriana
I shall. You're about to be very popular with the crew.

Pay Rise
Nothing brings up capability like the promise of more gold.
Promotes most units with some exceptions.

narrator
Most tier 1 classes can be promoted with Pay Rise regardless of level.
Preparation Armory now has slightly better equipment in stock.

Top Deck

Guard, Potato, & He Who Chops

guard
Fellow warriors of Irinde, there is a serious problem.
he who chops
I agree. The prohibition of alcohol on the ship is a serious problem.
guard
No, you dolt. It's that we're being overshadowed by the Seahawks.
It's always, “The Seahawks did this, the Seahawks did that.”
What about Irinde's finest?
potato
What about us?
he who chops
So?
guard
This is the root of the problem!
Where is your passion? Where is your will for bloodshed?
potato
I'm all for the whole “glory to Irinde” business, but I'd rather the Seahawks take the front. They're the professionals.
he who chops
I like chopping, but I don't like being chopped. I agree.
guard
Our ancestors would be disappointed!
Do you not remember how our ancestors secured their foothold with valour?
he who chops
No. I was only born thirty years ago.
guard
This calls for an intervention. The forces of Irinde have grown too slack.
If we are to return to our glory days, a new regime must be implemented!
(The guard captain leaves.)
he who chops
I think that is bad.
potato
We've made a huge mistake. Should have just feigned enthusiasm.

Francisca & Tasel

francisca
One package for one Mister Tasel, right here.
tasel
(smiles) Mudherb, bloodletter, mint... Not a single bit of damage.
Your skills truly shine more than your wyvern's scales.
francisca
(smiles) Why, thank you. I always make sure my dear is properly clean.
(Ellerie approaches.)
ellerie
We're fighting in a war, and you two still have time for secondary pursuits?
francisca
(serious) My dear can fly faster than this airship, so what's the harm?
ellerie
Alright.
(Ellerie leaves.)
tasel
Here are the necessary plants for the next batch.
francisca
This is all still small money.
Surely, we start upscaling your operations, for just a small cost.
tasel
My good mercenary, you know how harsh these days have been.
I cannot bet the sun and stars on these experiments so early.
francisca
You drink your own potions all time. I'm sure they'll sell.
tasel
My potions are like toxin to the bodies and minds of the common human.
francisca
Let me have a sip. How strong can it be?
(Francisca experiences a series of vivid hallucinations, appearing to be in multiple places at once.)
francisca
?eb ti nac gnorts woH .pis a evah em teL
(Francisca comes to.)
francisca
What in Elis's good sacred name?
tasel
What fortune, you have not ejected all of your organs!
francisca
How are you still alive drinking this stuff youself?
tasel
My body is as strong as my potions.

Aigo

If you took his quest in Chapter 7x

aigo
Have you found anything of interest on your travels? That is, of interest to me.
options
Here's what I have.

That's all, now gimme.

Let me go get it.

If you turn in at least 1 document

ellerie
I've procured a few documents that could fulfill that criteria.
aigo
Yes, yes, there is value within these pages. I'll trade you a tome for each.
ellerie
I did take a look myself at the contents, which seem... interesting.
What do you plan to do with these, if you don't mind me asking?
aigo
Absolutely nothing, just add it to my rather diminished library.
The set I would have added it to has burned, but I must start rebuilding.
ellerie
Are you not worried that miscreants would make use of it for nefarious purposes?
aigo
That is none of my concern.
All that matters is such knowledge still exists, and that those who seek knowledge can find it.
ellerie
I suppose there are merits to a more hands-off approach, makes life easier. I may visit your collection when I find the time.
aigo
Of course, you are always welcome.
I do have more duplicate tomes I can provide, for the right price of course.
ellerie
Can't you give a discount to this... seeker of knowledge?
aigo
Those who truly value knowledge will be willing to pay for it, don't you agree?
ellerie
Fine.
(Ellerie receives Lacerate, Sick Sid's Slicer, and Ruin tomes depending on how many documents she turned in.)

If you turn in no documents

ellerie
Don't have anything. Didn't come across any.
aigo
Rare manuscripts don't grow on trees after all.
I thank you anyways for taking the time to check.

If not

aigo
My library being burnt down sees me in need of rather immediate funds.
ellerie
The Seahawk funds are running fairly tight, upkeep of an elite band is rather costly.
aigo
Fortunately, there is a collection of duplicate magic tomes I can provide at a good price.
ellerie
It appears there might be some room in our coffers after all.
Given our justified fight for Irinde and its people,
surely we can get a discount?
aigo
Justified fight it might be, but the fight to reduce my prices is never justifiable.
ellerie
Fine.

Hammer Helli

If you took her quest in Chapter 7x

hammer helli
I'm rather impressed that the ragged adventurer I met all those months ago became a Chieftain in such a short time.
ellerie
It's been only months, but its certainly felt like years. A lot has changed.
hammer helli
You ain't got too high and mighty to remember this old woman's request?
ellerie
It's been a while, but I do recall.
hammer helli
Then give me the ores, and I can get started.
This will take some time, don't expect it for a while.

If Ellerie is holding Rare Ores

hammer helli
You do have the ores, right?

If Ellerie is not holding Rare Ores

ellerie
I'll have to check our supply to see if there's any we can spare.

If returning after seeing the initial conversation:

hammer helli
This will be quite the effort, can't spend all day waiting.
Do you have the ores?

Yes

hammer helli
Give me whatever materials you've scrounged up, and I'll add them all into my work process.

No

ellerie
I'm afraid we have no ore on hand at the moment.
hammer helli
Irinde is a town known for its ores yet you have none on hand?
ellerie
We would have more if we didn't export all of it.
hammer helli
Then it might be in your best interest to buy my wares with gold.

If not

ellerie
Irinde and I do appreciate that you're willing to supply to us.
hammer helli
There's no better business for me than war. I have the good weapons, you buy them.
ellerie
Surely we can get a slightly more favorable price, if we purchase in bulk-
hammer helli
I may be called Hammer Helli, but my prices sure ain't being hammered down.
ellerie
Worth a try.
hammer helli
No it wasn't.

Levin Seller

levin seller
TWO whole fresh LEVIN swords for just 3900 gold!
That's like a... Maths, maths. 35% discount! What a steal!
From my name alone, I don't even need to address quality.
ellerie
I'm not telepathic. I don't know the name of everyone on this ship.
levin seller
You'd have heard of me. Levin is my family name!
This entire line of swords is named after my grandpa.
We've been in this business for over sixty decades.
ellerie
How odd. I've not heard of the Levin family business in Irinde.
levin seller
Probably because those dirty Flame and Wind Swords took our market share!
They say Levin Swords are a poor in- between, when it's the ideal balance!
ellerie
I'm the wrong person for you to preach about magic swords.
levin seller
Maybe if you weren't the richest arms buyer this side of the coast.
2 Levin Swords! 3900 gold! 35% off!

If you have less than 3900 gold

ellerie
I'm not sure if that's within Irinde's budget.
levin seller
But... you're the chief! You're supposed to actually have gold!
ellerie
How do you think Oren made gold as the chief?
levin seller
Uhh... From being the chief? I'm not really sure, actually.
ellerie
There's your answer.

Yes

levin seller
I'm going to be honest; my family's been out of business for years.
These were just the last few that were lying around the house.
ellerie
As long as Levin Swords don't have an expiration period.
levin seller
They don't, probably. I know about as much as you do.
(Ellerie receives two Levin Swords.)

No

ellerie
I think my experts prefer Wind and Flames Swords.
levin seller
Of course they do.

Upper Deck

Gecko, Krynia, & Vermillion

gecko
The blue man stabbed ... the fresh meat?
krynia
That's corpse, but close enough.
You're looking tired. Want to end it here for the day?
gecko
Alright, I'm not quite keeping up.
Sorry that I'm learning so slowly, if it's not too much tro-
krynia
(smiles) You're doing great for starting late.
I took much longer, Mother worrying I'd never finish learning my letters.
gecko
(smiles) Really? I shouldn't have believed him when Elder said I was born too stupid to learn.
krynia
Clearly, I'm just a far better teacher.
Now what? Flying on an airship was cool the first few hours, but there's nothing to do.
gecko
(frowns) We could... Help out on the deck?
krynia
(frowns) That's the boring kind of work. Little Red! Come over here, cute fella!
(Vermillion approaches.)
vermillion
Let down your guard, fool! Soon, I will know all your weaknesses.
(Gecko starts.)
krynia
What's wrong, Gecko?
gecko
It's nothing, nothing really.
krynia
You can't tell a lie to save your life. You can tell sweet Krynia, can't you?
gecko
Okay... It's that, chickens... unnerve me? They're a bit scary.
vermillion
Of course! We are the glorious kings of the Crescent.
krynia
Never seen a fear of chickens before. They're so cute.
gecko
It's a long story, but I've had bad experiences in the past.
krynia
Don't have to tell me if you don't want to. Alright, little fella, be on your way.
vermillion
You're choosing her over me? Me? The Great Vermillion?
(Vermillion leaves.)
gecko
You must think it's ridiculous.
krynia
Not really, I've heard of all kinds of fears.
The upside is that a fear of chickens ain't dangerous.
What can they do to you, peck you to death?
gecko
Yeah, haha...

Thyme & Basil

thyme
Another good morning, my dear favorite brother!
basil
It was a good morning before you showed up. What do you want?
thyme
Is it wrong of me to want to catch up with my sibling?
We've spent a few years apart.
basil
Nothing has changed with me, still traveling the Crescent.
Now, leave me alone.
thyme
I did hear you sought refuge in the Sect and became a missionary.
Hard to believe they accepted you, given your past.
basil
The past wasn't important to them, only my faith.
thyme
How curious. Did you think finding religion will absolve you of your sins?
basil
You dare bring that up! You made me do all that!
It was you! Your fault.
thyme
You didn't do it for me, you did it to save your own hide.
basil
It's not fair. Why is it that I must be tormented by these memories, while you live out life just fine?
thyme
Because unlike you, I don't delude myself into thinking that I'm a better person than I am.
basil
Did you come here just to torment me?
thyme
Yes. I despise the fact that you think of yourself as a victim. After everything.
basil
... Please, just leave.
thyme
I will, for now. No amount of travelling will make you outrun your own guilt.
basil
...

Pomelo & Johnny Spices

pomelo
Uncle, I finally finished this for you.
johnny spices
Fourteen, good lad! I was starting to think you were avoiding me. What's this for?
pomelo
I took all that gold saying I'd make my fortune on the mainland, but I didn't earn a gold piece back.
johnny spices
So you didn't see me until you were sure you had some kind of recompensation?
Really, there's no need. The gold I gave was basically pocket change for me.
pomelo
It wasn't pocket change for me. I hope this can make up for some of it, at least.
A custom bolter, more accurate, more lethal.
johnny spices
I can tell how much you're eyeing the thing that you really want to keep it.
No problem, it's on me.
pomelo
You've helped me too much for me to just accept your charity again. Take it.
johnny spices
I have an idea. Chief!
(Ellerie comes over.)
ellerie
Still not used to the title yet. What is it?
johnny spices
I recently got my hands on a particularly nice bolter, and I think Fourteen would appreciate it on his boat.
How about buying it from me?
ellerie
Fourteen?
pomelo
That's me.
ellerie
I'll take a look.
pomelo
Uncle, I really don't-
johnny spices
Just a nice 2000 gold for it.

If you have less than 2000 gold

ellerie
... I don't have that much on me right now.
pomelo
Keep it, Uncle. It was for you.
johnny spices
Alright, alright. I'm sure it'll be pretty good.

Yes

ellerie
Sure, I think Pomelo could use it.
pomelo
Captain, you really don't have to spend that gold. I can do fine with the cannon.
ellerie
Always good to have some additional options. I pay for all the crew's equipment anyway.
johnny spices
See? I got compensation and everyone is happy.
pomelo
(Sorry, Captain.)
(Pomelo receives a Jolting John.)

No

ellerie
Not sure if another weapon is needed when the landboat has the cannon.
pomelo
I agree, another gun will barely fit. Just keep it, Uncle.
johnny spices
That's fine. I'll put you- my bolter to the test and tell you the results.

Quilan

quilan
Hmm, like this? No, just doesn't quite have the flair to it.
Captain, come here. Need your help.
ellerie
What do you want help with?
quilan
Drafting the first part of the epic, and I'd rather get some input from the source.
ellerie
And here I was worrying I'm paying you for nothing.
I'll be sure to give my unbiased observations.
quilan
What do you think was most critical to the Seahawks surviving each battle?
options
Sturdy Frontliners.

Speedy Strikers.

Supportive Backliners.

Mobile Mounts.

My Tactical Genius.

Results:

“Sturdy Frontliners.”
Ellerie, Tower, Pomelo, Mince, Krynia, Whipjack, Chixin, Basil.
Defence +1.

“Speedy Strikers.”
Oriana, Gecko, Telon, Vermillion, Iosaf, Rohesia, Wisp, Foxberry.
Strength +1.

“Supportive Backliners.”
Lindros, Yvette, Chalice, Acielle, Qiulan, Thyme, Nerysa.
Strength or Magic +1.

“Mobile Mounts.”
Raylin, Reiker, Marlow, Murky, Francisca, Tasel, Dune, Aigo.
Speed +1.

“My Tactical Genius.”
Ellerie Str, Mag, Skl, Spd +1.


quilan
Next, what is a quality that you would say characterises the Seahawks?
options
The expertise of our veterans.

The passion of our novices.

A good salary does wonders.

The thrill of the journey.

A strong sense of purpose.

Taking on more... unique recruits.

I'm just really good at my job.

Results:

“The expertise of our veterans.”
Oriana, Tower, Rohesia, Tasel, Aigo,
Max HP +2.

“The passion of our novices.”
Reiker, Raylin, Gecko, Krynia, Foxberry,
Max HP +2.

“A good salary does wonders.”
Pomelo, Marlow, Francisca, Whipjack, Murky,
Max HP +2.

“The thrill of the journey.”
Mince, Yvette, Chalice, Telon, Qiulan, Basil,
Max HP +2.

“A strong sense of purpose.”
Lindros, Acielle, Thyme, Dune, Nerysa,
Max HP +2.

“Taking on more... unique recruits.”
Vermillion, Iosaf, Chixin, Wisp, John
Max HP +2.

“I'm just really good at my job.”
Ellerie Max HP, Def, Res, Luck +1.


quilan
Finally, about the hero. What do you want out of your journey?
Gold, no shame in that, power, as many do, or something personal?
options
Yes.

All of it.

Power, wealth and vengeance.

Wealth, vengeance and power.

Default

quilan
I shouldn't be surprised.
ellerie
Run the draft by me before you finish. I would like some say on the final edits.

If Ellerie picked a self-aggrandizing option

quilan
You seem to have a high opinion of yourself.
ellerie
I do think I am fairly fantastic.
Before you finish, I would like some say on the final edits.
quilan
Anything for you, dear patron of the arts.

Marlow

marlow
Hey, Captain, I've got a deal for you.
ellerie
This better be good.
marlow
I'm dabbling in a bit of tome making on the side, and I made my own.
ellerie
Hold on, you wrote your own magic tome?
marlow
I'm surprised too. A bit of scribbling and doodling, and bam! It can wash people away.
ellerie
That's rather impressive and all, but what's wrong with just using it yourself?
marlow
Well, you're paying for all our weapons.
If I use this tome myself rather than selling it, I'd be losing out on possible profit.
ellerie
I'm not happy about it, but I can't fault your logic.
marlow
I won't even charge gold, because you're such a wonderful captain.
No, just a bit of drink will do.
ellerie
You do know the order to prohibit drinking came from me, right?
marlow
I never claimed that I was going to. Just a trade for some alcohol for later.
And if it gets lost somewhere on the journey, well, who's to say?
ellerie
No deal. Name a price in gold.
marlow
Such a stickler for rules. Gold it is.
3000 Gold for my awesome tome.

If you have less than 3000 gold

ellerie
Don't have that much.
marlow
Oh come on, there's no way you can't afford 3000 gold.

Yes

marlow
I suppose 3000 gold will do.
ellerie
Don't act like you're getting the worst end of the deal.

No

ellerie
No.
marlow
Then how about the drink?
ellerie
You do realize I could have you punished for inciting corruption?
marlow
Good point. I'll be on my way right now.

M. Widewater
Scribbles that somehow work. +8 Mag.

Middle Deck

Acielle & Iosaf

acielle
Another day, another lack of prophetic vision that dictates my path as the chosen one. Surely, it has to be soon.
iosaf
What is a chosen one?
acielle
You haven't heard, big fella? Chosen ones are people tasked with divine duties.
iosaf
Are chosen ones the best?
acielle
Maybe? Probably. They're usually pretty good.
iosaf
Then I will become a chosen one.
acielle
You can't choose to become a chosen one, big fella. You have to be chosen by a deity.
iosaf
Then how do I get myself Chosen? What if they don't choose me?
acielle
I have a good eye, and you look like divine champion material. I'm sure you'll be fine.
Say, how about you join me on my quest?
I'm trying to meet with my patron deity, looking to begin my legendary tale.
iosaf
I've been pondering how to become the best again. Maybe this is another way.
acielle
Great! I'm already gathering my own party. Now I just need a healer and a swordsman.

Chalice & Yvette

chalice
What do you have over there?
yvette
You can see it?
chalice
The ominous feeling of imminent dismemberment is somehow located within this area, so yes.
yvette
The pawnbroker didn't lie to me then. This is an authentic Effigy of the One That Hates.
chalice
And... why would you buy that instead of reporting it to the Sect?
yvette
It's supposed to summon it. To fight a thing from folk legend, isn't it exciting?
chalice
That's one of the dumbest decisions I've ever heard, and I live with Telon.
They're folk legends that always end with the victim being horrifically killed.
yvette
They said the same things about the Workshop, and we came out on top.
These monsters and whatever ain't unkillable, that's for sure.
chalice
Look. You can do whatever stupid crap in your own time, but I, and the crew, would rather not be caught up in it.
yvette
You're making a big deal out of nothing. What are you going to do about it?
chalice
I'm going to beat you over the head with this staff until you hand it over.
(Ellerie approaches.)
ellerie
What's going on?
yvette
I'm just minding my own business, and this woman starts making threats.
chalice
She's carrying a deadly curse and I'm supposed to be fine with that?
ellerie
Catch me up on the details.
chalice
One kinda long but not really explanation involving some gruesome details later...
ellerie
Why are the summoning conditions oddly specific?
yvette
That's what you get from this? We've seen all kinds of bizarre things on the Crescent.
ellerie
We can trace a lot of anomalies back to lost technology and the old gods.
I can't see what could be significant about the 17th of the month.
And why in Elis's name would a spirit care about what altitude you're at?
chalice
You're thinking too hard about this.
The fact that I can see the miasma coming off it is rather problematic.
yvette
I say we summon it and kill it.
Besides, ain't the Sect all about protecting the common folk from supernatural threats?
We're basically doing your job.
chalice
There are ways to contain the threat that doesn't involve the threat of dismemberment.
ellerie
Should I interfere?

Yes

ellerie
Okay, I'll decide what to do with this, as a fair intermediary.
chalice
Hey-
yvette
Huh?
(Ellerie grabs the effigy, but breaks the seal by accident.)
chalice
Why in the name of Elis would you do that? And I thought Yvette was an idiot.
ellerie
I didn't mean to break the seal. The thing was a lot more brittle than I expected.
yvette
Time to put it to the test now?
If you get attacked by some evil ghost, I'll definitely be there.
ellerie
I'm sure nothing will happen.
chalice
You'd better hope you're right.

No

ellerie
You can sort this one out, I don't have time for some superstitions.

Quest

Yvette found herself a supposed cursed idol, which I broke. I'm sure nothing will come of this.
(Chapter ?)

Dune

dune
I'm still not exactly pleased we're helping the Guild, even if we plan to throw them to the wolves in the long-term.
ellerie
I understand your frustrations, but it seems to be the best course of action for Irinde.
dune
I'm well aware. However, I do think we deserve some additional compensation for the trouble the Guild has caused us.
ellerie
What do you have in mind?
dune
Some of the wealthy Guild homes are prime targets for raiding.
If the fighting gets really heated, who can tell which side did it?
ellerie
That seems rather risky.
We may not be willing allies, but it'll do us no good to excessively antagonize them.
dune
The Guild needs us more than we need them. They'll have to swallow their complaints.
I'm sure it'd boost Irinde's morale, at least.
ellerie
Even so.
dune
Think of it as a rescue fee. Or some well-deserved comeuppance.
ellerie
(Should I loot the merchants?)

Yes

ellerie
I'm tempted, but it'll have to depend if opportunity provides.
dune
(smiles) I'm sure we'll get the chance.

No

ellerie
I think it may be too risky.
dune
Then I will simply fume quietly.

Quest

Dune thinks we should take some opporunities for profit in Yalunzar. That involves crime.
(Chapter 17)

Lower Deck & Belowdecks

Lindros & Murky

(Lindros finds Murky studying one of his war golems.)
lindros
How did you get down here? Only the Captain should have a key.
murky
There was no lock, I just walked in.
lindros
It's not a big deal anyways, just don't go talking about this.
murky
Interesting experiment you got.
This isn't one produced by the Crescent, is it? You built it from scratch.
lindros
You can tell?
murky
The outward appearance is similar,
I can tell the structure keeping this sack of flesh together is different.
More messy and inefficient compared to the Crescent's identical designs.
lindros
Are you some kind of expert on the Crescent's monsters?
murky
In a sense. I fancy myself a professional in matters relating to anatomy.
lindros
You're just who I need. I'm close to completing a functional one, but my lack of expertise in matters of the flesh is a serious barrier.
Could I ask you for assistance?
murky
Of course. I'm glad to have a kindred spirit regarding my interests.
I've had many comrades who were far less receptive to my talents.
lindros
Why would that be?
murky
What can I say? People get nervous around those who poke around corpses.
lindros
Absolutely absurd. Don't bother with such simpletons.
murky
If I were to bring in material here for my own work, I'm sure it wouldn't be an issue?
lindros
Of course. Scholars like us ought to band together. You can count on my aid.
murky
(smiles) Very good. (As long as he doesn't dig deeper.)

Whipjack

whipjack
Captain, I've got some real special important information about Johnsbury.
ellerie
Really? Tell me more.
whipjack
3000 gold.
ellerie
I'm not paying you 3000 gold for the right to information of dubious quality.
You give me the information first, then I'll decide what it's worth.
whipjack
Then you won't pay me because you already have the information!
ellerie
I'm afraid this is not open to negotiation. Either we leave, or we deal on my terms.
whipjack
You must promise to compensate me fairly, or you truly have no honour.
ellerie
(Should I even bother hearing him out?)

Yes

whipjack
Word is there is a terrifying beast seen in Johnsbury. Sightings were near its armories.
ellerie
What does it look like? What are its capabilities? What is its history?
whipjack
... That's all I've heard.
ellerie
You heard a tavern rumor and are passing it off as legitimate information?
whipjack
This is just a ploy to not pay me a lick of gold!
ellerie
Calm down. You'll get your gold, based on if we get anything out of this.
whipjack
That's a vague and unhelpful promise.
ellerie
Tough. Don't forget, I pay your wages too.
whipjack
How good honest men struggle in this society.

No

ellerie
I doubt you have anything I need to hear.
whipjack
Wait-

Quest

Whipjack has informed us about a ferocious monster seen near the armories near Johnsbury.
(Chapter 15)

Anna

ellerie
Why did you sneak onto my ship?
anna
It's not my fault you didn't see me get on. I'm just doing business.
ellerie
I can't help but feel there's better places to do business, but alright.

Disposal Chute

ellerie
What a terrifying view. Why would they have something like this here?
Maybe this is how they throw out their garbage- Woah!
(Ellerie falls.)

If Francisca is present

(Francisca catches Ellerie.)
francisca
That was incredibly stupid, but good for me. How much do you think your life is worth me saving you there?
ellerie
A damn lot, thanks for the save. Can you not tell the rest of the crew?
francisca
They're gonna ask questions anyways when I ferry you back up.
ellerie
This is going to be humiliating. At least I'm not dead.
francisca
If you need to take any more freefalls in the future, wait til I'm around first.
ellerie
No chance.

If Francisca is not present and Raylin is alive

(Raylin catches Ellerie.)
raylin
Woah! What the heck were you doing there?
ellerie
... Just taking a walk and my foot slipped.
raylin
Don't go doing that again!
I would rather not lose my job due to my employer taking a tumble.
ellerie
I assure you that it won't happen again. I owe you one.
raylin
You sure do! Hey, can you overlook the fact that Reiker and I may have...
errr... kind of forgot about that big crate we were supposed to bring on board?
ellerie
You what? That was a major part of our rations!
raylin
Good time to bring it up, right?
ellerie
Alright, I'll sweep this under the rug. Just have to remember to resupply.

If neither Francisca nor Raylin are present

(In a tavern, Quilan is telling a story to a crowd.)
quilan
And then she fell off the ship and died.
pirate
What?
quilan
And that is the end of Ellerie's tale.
pirate
You're joking, right? What kind of ending is that?
man
You wasted all our time for the story to end like this?
quilan
It is how it is.
man
That's so lame. Get better stories.
pirate
Thanks for nothing, Bard.
(Game over.)

If you try to interact a second time

ellerie
I'm not doing that again.

Secret Stairs

ellerie
Huh? Don't recall seeing these stairs, or anything leading from them upstairs.
(Ellerie climbs the stairs and finds herself in a strange distorted space filled with disembodied spirits, including Blaine and Wisp. There is also a vendor who sells Plucker's Gifts.)

Lower Doorway

ellerie
Maybe this nice doorway floating in nothingness will lead somewhere.
Home would be great, but I'll settle for anywhere that's not here.

(Ellerie walks into the door, then immediately walks back out.

Nope. Nope.

Upper Doorway

ellerie
Okay. Not religious, but Elis could give me a hand here. Maybe this is the right way.
(Ellerie opens the door to find another Ellerie staring back at her.)
ellerie?
Not dealing with this.
ellerie
That person blocked the doorway behind her. Guess it wasn't it.

Stairs

(Ellerie finds herself back on the top deck.)
ellerie
...
Okay.

If you visit the stairs again:

(Ellerie finds herself back at the stairs to the lower deck.)
ellerie
... Just a small tunnel that leads back to the same floor.

Ending

ellerie
Time for some well-deserved rest. Would prefer a bit more privacy though.

If you provided Hammer Helli with materials

If you only gave Rare Ores

hammer helli
Since you only spent the minimum effort in bringing me ore, I also spent the minimum effort.
ellerie
Thanks.
(Ellerie receives a Silver Bow.)

If you gave extra materials

hammer helli
Your weapons are done.
ellerie
Already? You work fast.
hammer helli
Let me take you on a tour of my temporary workshop, and we'll collect each one.
ellerie
Alright?

If you gave Mana Cubes

(Hammer Helli takes Ellerie to a sunny field.)
hammer helli
To make a magical sword that incorporates magical light,
I decided some nice morning sunlight was the ideal conditions.
This is the Shimmersword.
ellerie
This looks like a normal light brand to me?
hammer helli
No, this is the Shimmersword.
It has many nuances that make it far superior to your common light brand.
ellerie
I'll take your word for it.
(Ellerie receives a Light Brand. Despite what Helli says, it has no special properties.)

If you gave Uncut Gems

(Hammer Helli takes Ellerie to a workshop.)
hammer helli
This is where I do most of my work.
Some smiths might tell you that gems on weapons are gaudy and pointless.
And I tell you those smiths are fools. A shinier weapon is far more powerful.
ellerie
That's good to know?
hammer helli
Unfortunately, the gem-encrusted lance turned out the same as any other brave lance you might find.
It was supposed to be something special, rather disappointing.
ellerie
It's a brave lance. That's good enough for me.
(Ellerie receives a Brave Lance.)

If you gave Coffee

(Hammer Helli takes Ellerie to a dungeon.)
hammer helli
And here is where more experimental works take place.
I took my previous experiences to produce the perfect axe.
I was nearing completion, so I tried some of that coffee stuff.
ellerie
What do you think of the coffee?
hammer helli
Terrible. Heaven knows why they charge so much for it.
More importantly, the coffee had me a bit addled and my flawless masterpiece...
became not so flawless. You should still get good use out of its remains though.
ellerie
That's... good?

Xonssuaencsy
Allegedly, the first magic axe. +14 Mag.

If you gave any extra materials

(Hammer Helli takes Ellerie to her workshop.)
hammer helli
I returned to my main forge only to realize I only had ore left,
and no specialty ingredients.
So I just turned the rest into a silver bow and ended my day.
ellerie
Wait, I didn't give you silver ore.
hammer helli
Are you sure? Perhaps your memory is failing you.
ellerie
Maybe it is. (I'd rather get back to the ship now.)
Thank you for your efforts, great smith.
It's an honour.
hammer helli
It was nothing really. Not my best work, but still better than all of the Crescent.
(Ellerie receives a Silver Bow.)

If you took Jake's quest

If you delivered the goods

jake
I've heard you've delivered the supplies to Enan.
A magnanimous act to help who might be considered your foes.
ellerie
All we did was deliver food you gave to us.
But why ask us to do it, especially given we were essentially invading Enan?
Couldn't you have done it yourself?
jake
For my own safety. While I have many friends in Enan, an equal amount would see me dead in the streets on sight.
ellerie
What did you do that was so heinous?
jake
I hope you don't mind me keeping that to myself.
I did promise you a reward, but it will have to wait.
It's been a hard time recently.

If not

jake
What happened to the supplies that never made it to Enan?
ellerie
It's with a sorrowful heart that I inform you that the supplies spoiled on the journey.
jake
... Okay.

krynia
Do you have time for me to ask about something, Captain?
ellerie
I always have time for the crew. What's the matter?
krynia
It's about my transformation.
Mother says I should use it as sparingly as possible, because holding such inhuman power would get to my head,
Do you think that's true?
ellerie
Oriana is being ridiculous.
One should always leverage any advantage they can get, and even though you suffered for it, this is your advantage.
What's the point in holding back for the sake of holding back?
krynia
(smiles) Yeah! I knew you would agree with me.
I was ill for most of my childhood because of this so-called blessing,
I deserve to use them now.
ellerie
But I'd much rather you not tell her that I said that.
krynia
(serious) Of course. Can't be seen corrupting the youth.

Yalunzar

(The Guildmaster addresses Yalunzar's defenders.)
guildmaster
Do not fear, good citizens! The enemy is at our gates, our gates that have not been breached since Yalunzar's founding.
(Jeziel approaches Yalunzar's gates.)
jeziel
How about it now, Guildmaster?
Didn't think rightful retribution for your crimes could come so quickly!
guildmaster
Your threats are worth little coming from beneath our walls.
I don't know what gave you the audacity for such a move, but I'll ensure the bloody results of your folly is known to the Crescent!
jeziel
My audacity is backed by allies.
Perhaps if you didn't try to monopolise our trader, you'd have fewer enemies.
Enjoy what time you have left with your city. I'll send it all to hell with you!
guildmaster
Fire the ballista!
(The ballista fire forces Jeziel to fall back.)
unari
I am not certain what you hoped to achieve by talking to her.
jeziel
It wasn't just to taunt the hag. I assessed their forces on the walls.
Sir Secundus, you've returned. What news do you bring?
secundus
I have concluded negotiation with Irinde's people.
They have been cowed and will not be a concern.
unari
I find that difficult to believe.
The folk of Irinde don't seem like the kind to so easily back down.
secundus
What do you know of negotiation, commoner? Some are destined to know their place.
unari
(This is the man you chose for the job, Prince?)
bardiche
Don't take that tone with the boss, lowly soldier. Or I will tear out your tongue.
secundus
You dare threaten a royal knight! I will have your head!
jeziel
Calm down your subordinate, Unari.
unari
Ignore him, Bardiche. There's no glory in winning a fight with a mutt.
bardiche
Sound advice, Boss.
secundus
You-
jeziel
Be silent! If the amount of men on the wall is indicative, their manpower is about as we have estimated.
A full-on assault is viable.
unari
Let's not be so quick to assume they won't have other tricks up their sleeve.
Given their artifact business, they surely have kept powerful ones for themselves.
secundus
I do believe the Good Prince has already stated his stance on-
jeziel
Be silent. Then, what do you suggest, adventurer?
unari
It's an opportune time to test our troops while scouting Yalunzar's true strength.
How are they looking, Bardiche?
bardiche
The line ones are ready.
The prototypes are still caged in the Sanctuary.
We don't quite have full control of them.
jeziel
What good are powerful weapons that can harm us as much as it harms them?
The old man played us for fools.
unari
At minimum, we have a host of bodies to throw at Yalunzar, that's not the lives of our men.
jeziel
We didn't shower that old man in gold and jeopardize our relations with the Sect, just so we could have some extra bodies.
We were promised powerful troops, ones that could match experienced adventurers.
unari
That we were, but unraveling the secrets of the Crescent is certainly no easy matter.
What he has given us serves their purpose.
The Guild has grown overconfident having not been directly challenged in decades.
We will prevail, even without the prototypes.
jeziel
Then make haste in deploying them. I want to see the walls down by the end of the week.
(Jeziel steps back to speak with Florete.)
florete
Grandpa, why are we here? Why are you fighting this battle? I want to go home.
jeziel
In another few years, I may be no longer in this world. Before that, I must secure the superiority of the Iron Realm over the Guild.
The Guild has grown more bold, and I fear for your eventual reign.
florete
Can I not... hide away?
Why do I need to cling to this royalty thing, or this little realm?
We're not really royalty anymore.
jeziel
I've heard plenty of people mock my title. But our royal status is a weapon.
As long as we can leverage it and enough believe in it, then it becomes the truth.
florete
But I don't want this. I want to just live normally. Like everyone else.
jeziel
If you do not rule, then you'll be ruled by the whims of others.
Is that what you truly want?
Have you not seen the fates of those who cannot decide their own fate?
florete
But I- I- there has to be something else.
jeziel
My dear granddaughter, you have to understand. These loyal knights, those honest men, they are fighting for their future, but also your future.
If you want a better life, you must take power into your own hands.
florete
...
(War golems are called in.)
guildmaster
Monsters of the Crescent, under their control?
I knew they wouldn't do something so brazen without some kind of trump card up their sleeve.
No matter! We've slaughtered hundreds of these things, we can kill a few hundred more!
(Sounds of battle erupt as the war golems charge the gates.)

Character Descriptions

He Who Chops
A charitable butcher who treats everyone around him with kindness and is beloved by Irinde's residents.

Potato
Has no redeeming personality traits, but is widely respected for his ability to cultivate the finest tomatoes.

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

Levin Seller
An average citizen trying to make a living on the Crescent. A rather poor choice.

Civilian
Civilian becomes a synonym for collateral damage very quickly.

Irinde
An inhabitant of Irinde who has taken up arms. Not well trained, but eager.

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

War Golem
Artifical beings built for the war effort, great as replaceable cannon fodder but aren't very good at following orders.

Chicken
Bawk.

Materials
Piles of dead trees sacrificed for construction of a wondrous project.

Cormorants
An established adventuring band whose battle cry is always “fighting for freedom” even when it makes no sense.

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

Spirit
Ethereal constructs formed from the creator's magical prowess.