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Chapter 17x: Yalunzar

Opening

ellerie
If there is any more gold you want to waste on the airship, do it fast.
We'll be leaving Yalunzar shortly.
pomelo
So quick? Damn, I haven't even made heads or tails of who I need to buy from.
ellerie
We've been here for weeks.
pomelo
Well, in Irinde, it was always just Wilson's that we needed to buy from, and Oriana does that for me.
ellerie
Getting supplies we need for the ship is really more your job.
Can't rely on Oriana for everything, she can't be around forever.
pomelo
Oh come on, you were never concerned about this before.
ellerie
I'll give you a quick rundown of who's who. the Guild is run by the 19 Merchant Kings-
pomelo
Nineteen? You expect me to remember nineteen names?
ellerie
Most of them got slaughtered in the siege, so not really-
pomelo
Captain, it appears I've come down with a sudden headache.
I can only relax by solving this- by optimizing our engine by five percent.
See you later!
ellerie
Now that's just childish.
(Pomelo leaves. Ellerie seeks out Lindros.)
ellerie
I've been fending off Tower's inquiries, given you've been far less available.
lindros
Much thanks. Evasive maneuvers seemed like a good idea.
ellerie
So you're finally going to tell me what's going on with the monsters?
lindros
I dug around in the monster corpses, and no doubt, it's an amplified, mass produced version of how I was able to replicate the Workshop's functions.
Even the imperfections are the same.
ellerie
Tower still doesn't know about what you brought back and the resulting paper.
I suppose your master decided that was all the usefulness out of you?
lindros
We cannot be absolutely sure it was him.
ellerie
He is the only other person on the whole coast that knows who you are.
This isn't even a question.
lindros
There is also Thyme-
ellerie
Lindros.
lindros
Given his many dead apprentices and my lack of background, my apprenticeship was convenient.
But I wanted to think we were forming a genuine connection and then he would hesitate? I don't know.
ellerie
With his previous record, you're just fooling yourself.
He has plenty reason to want you dead, knowing all his secrets for one.
lindros
What a pessimistic outlook, but the circumstances do suggest this.
ellerie
Give me a run down of how this works. And skip the magic babble.
lindros
(The uneducated and their lack of appreciation for the arcane arts.)
ellerie
You're not mumbling as unintelligibly as you think, but you're not wrong.
lindros
I copy Workshop. Make small device. Small device, one monster. Master go north. Find tower, find lore.
Resources and friends. Make big device. Big device, less good, more monster. More monster, more army. Simple enough?
ellerie
That just took you more effort to state what I already knew.
lindros
I assumed that's how you wanted me to explain this.
ellerie
Fine, I'm sorry. Lindros.
This device your Master is utilizing to control the Crescent's monsters, does it have stringent requisites? Who would be able to make use of it?
lindros
In theory, any highly competent magic user could, given the knowledge.
However, Master's research is highly esoteric, even to Oakhall's elite.
In practice, I doubt anyone except for myself could without many more years of dedicated research.
ellerie
Then, we have our objective.
We'll go north to this tower and seize the device in your name.
lindros
Master clearly needs to be stopped, for our own wellbeing and for the Crescent.
But regarding the device, perhaps it's better to let such a creation stay unreclaimed.
ellerie
What brought this on? You've never had less than full confidence in your work. Are you buying into what Tower spouts?
lindros
When I studied those inscriptions, I was thinking about this being the breakthrough of the century, not how they'd be immediately used in a war that spans half the coast less than a year later.
ellerie
If you're feeling guilty, that's absurd. We don't blame whoever brought magic to the world for everyone killed by a fireball.
lindros
Of course I don't think that way. But I do have a choice here.
Perhaps the Crescent is not ready for such a consequential discovery.
Maybe, another century can pass, and one far better could bring this knowledge into the world the right way.
ellerie
I am no seer, but it's easy to see this can immediately benefit the Crescent.
Hard labor could be outsourced. Dangerous tasks such as the mines in the Puncture and clearing the Crescent would be riskless.
Redevote such human resources to artisans and scholarly pursuits. The Iron Prince is unimaginative, but we're better than that.
And you're willing to throw it all away because your Master lent out, I don't know, a few dozen samples to fund his work?
lindros
That requires quite a few assumptions regarding-
ellerie
Not unreasonable assumptions, I'd bet.
What's more, I've seen how you treat your work, with the utmost zeal.
To deny it completely, that's the same as denying yourself. Is this what you want?
lindros
I don't know.
ellerie
Look, Lindros. I'm sorry if I'm being too overbearing.
This magic is about as far out of my field of expertise as it gets, it's your decision to make.
We must travel to the tower regardless, just give a thought to what I've said before then, okay?
lindros
Right, Ellerie. Maybe, I'll sleep on it. I'll give you an answer.
ellerie
Get your things together. We leave tomorrow.
lindros
A journey through the White Wastes is a highly treacherous one.
Even one as powerful as Master travelled with expert adventurers.
ellerie
We have an airship. We'll cross half the Wastes before the Iron Realm's eyes even notice our absence from Yalunzar.
Besides, we don't want to give our foes any breathing room, another wave of monsters can be raised very quickly.
lindros
You make a good point. Do you think... Tower?
ellerie
He is harsh, but he is no zealot.
He will listen to reason, given our travels together.
lindros
Right. I'll go inform the rest of the crew.

City Walls

The Gamer

militia 1
That's his 68th game in a row he's won.
militia 2
He can't be beaten. It's not possible.
militia 1
Twelve people died trying to prove otherwise.
ellerie
What's the commotion?
militia 2
That old man is unbeatable at chicken dice.
ellerie
Is it really a good time for you guards to be gaming while the enemy is outside our walls?
militia 2
No one asked you.
militia 1
Prick.
(The Gamer approaches.)
the gamer
Another challenger? I go by many names. Yalunzar's terror. The beast that lurks.
The inevitable. But call me The Gamer.
Bet 2000, win double. How about it?

If you have less than 2000 gold

ellerie
My pockets feel too light on gold for this.

Yes

(Ellerie is transported to the gaming arena.)
instructions
A die has 2 crates, 2 wights, 1 merc and 1 chicken. 3 dice are rolled at once.

Each crate rolled adds 1 point. Getting 7 points will win, or scoring more than your opponent.

If there are 3 more total wights rolled than mercs, then you lose.

Stop rolling when you think you have enough points and the risk is too high.

No

militia 1
Coward.
militia 2
Craven.

If you lose

Too many wights

ellerie
Damn, too many wights. Bad luck.

Too many mercenaries

ellerie
You can lose from too many mercenaries?
(Ellerie loses 2000 gold.)
the gamer
Another victory for the Gamer. Begone, puny challenger.
onlookers
She loses like the rest.

Maybe he can't be beaten...

3 chickens

ellerie
What does 3 chickens do?
onlookers
...

...

the gamer
Goodbye.
(The Gamer kills Ellerie.)

If you win

ellerie
7 crates. My victory.
(Ellerie takes 2000 gold.)
the gamer
No! No! It can't be! My throne! My legacy!
onlookers
It can't be possible! The Gamer has been defeated!

Teach us your ways, legendary gamer!

Gamer's turn

ellerie
I scored [#] points. Hope that's good enough.

The Gamer gives a different line depending on how many crates you have:

0 CRATES
Heaven Sundering Roll!
1 CRATE
Let me show you why they call me the Gamer!
2 CRATES
My body, my soul, my everything, is all within this roll!
3 CRATES
I see the roll's result with my mind's eye!
4 CRATES
The earth quakes at the roll of my dice!
5 CRATES
Fool! Your fate was already sealed!

If the Gamer wins

the gamer
An easy victory. This was inevitable.

If the Gamer loses

the gamer
My lucky dice! What has happened?

If the Gamer has 2 chickens and fewer crates than you

the gamer
...
Can't take the risk...
(The Gamer forfeits.)

If the Gamer gets 3 chickens

the gamer
...
...
(The Gamer dies.)
ellerie
You saw that, right? That wasn't me.
(Ellerie gains 2000 gold.)

Fine Fellow & Oily Oates

fine fellow
We Fine Fifteen held the line against the invaders with our flesh and bone,
and you're telling me we deserve no compensation from the Guild?
oily oates
I need tangible evidence, Mr. Fellow. Evidence that's not hearsay.
fine fellow
Just go ask the northern townsfolk! They saw us defending their homes.
oily oates
Hearsay, Mr. Fellow.
They were cowering in their homes and barely saw the battle at all.
We could ask this fine lady, who I did see at the scene of battle.
fine fellow
Girl, don't lie. You saw us in action.
ellerie
First, it's not Girl, it's the Chief of Irinde.
Second, that battle was entirely us. If you contributed anything, it barely mattered.
oily oates
We've reached a conclusion, Mr. Fellow. Now, I'm a busy man with greater concerns.
(Oates leaves.)
fine fellow
So, you're this Ellerie. Just because you have some reputation, you think you can push other adventurers around?
ellerie
Yes. If you're going to yap about this, that's the Guild's problem.
(Ellerie leaves.)
fine fellow
Damn Seahawks, taking our fame and glory!

House

young man
Hey, take this from me!
ellerie
Huh?
man
You've been drinking again, you brat?
young man
No, I haven't, Father! I've been so sober all this time.
man
Then get to work!
(They leave.)
ellerie
Thanks?
(Ellerie receives Aged Wine.)

Bazaar

Fate Frier

fate frier
One-hundred percent accurate fortunes, sold cheap, sold tasty.

Meat Man

meat man
People keep asking me where I get this meat and if it's safe. I say, buy it or get beat!

Smiley Sam

fighter
Even the mighty Bloodbane couldn't handle the spice!
young woman
Is this truly edible for humans?
(Ellerie approaches.)
ellerie
Another commotion? I can't not know what's going on.
fighter
That odd fellow is saying he'll give a huge reward for anyone who can finish eating a full dish of his special recipe.
young woman
But everyone who has tried all eventually gave up, screaming and withering.
It's poisoned, I tell you.
(Smiley Sam approaches.
smiley sam
Poison? I resent the implication!
No, it is simply beyond what those with weak will can withstand.
This is a true warrior's test, it might not be for you, little lady.
ellerie
Little lady? Alright, show me what this is.
smiley sam
Behold! The finest slices of dragon, seasoned with chilis that can kill that same dragon. A dish only for the mighty, the Fire Emblem!
Are you up to the challenge, little lady? Can you finish eating a whole portion of Fire Emblem without any outside help?
ellerie
I have a really bad feeling about this.
Should I eat the Fire Emblem?

No

ellerie
I think I will pass. I don't know what's in there.
smiley sam
No shame in knowing one's limits. Any other challengers?

Yes

ellerie
Mince always says my sense of taste is absolutely ruined.
Give me this Fire Emblem.
smiley sam
What bravery! Coming right up.
narrator
The Fire Emblem looks seared to perfection. You don't recognise the seasoning, though it looks appetising.
Mince would be jealous, you think, taking your first bite. Then, you feel it.
options
Slow Bites (-1 Str)

Rapid Chew (-1 Spd)

Swallow (-1 Def)

Give Up

narrator
You're no stranger to spicy dishes, but this is not a normal reaction. Streams of lava flow down to your stomach.
The walls of your organs sizzle and burn. You suspect a dragon wouldn't be able to breathe fires as hot as you right now.
options
Scream (-1 Str)

Cry (-1 Spd)

Writhe (-1 Def)

Give Up

narrator
You've bitten off more than you can chew, you realize, not that chewing would have helped here.
The raging inferno spreads throughout your entire body.
The only thing you can do now is try to withstand the pain.
options
Happy Memories (-2 Str)

Angry Memories (-2 Spd)

Sad Memories (-2 Def)

Become Nothing (-2 Mag)

(The world fades away.)
narrator
You try to scream, but you cannot. You try to cry, but you cannot.
You try to writhe in agony, but you cannot. You are in hell. This is hell.
options
Hold Fast (-5 HP)

Expire

Hold Fast

narrator
You are a pathetic sack of flesh kept together by bone and ligaments.
You are an insect to be crushed under the boots of expectation.
You are a mere dust particle in the face of great nothingness.
young woman
It can't be!
fighter
She's done it! By Elis, she's done it! She's finished it!
young woman
And she might also be finished.
smiley sam
She has conquered the Fire Emblem! Your well deserved reward, mighty warrior!
(Ellerie receives 500 gold.)
narrator
The Seahawks are called by worried onlookers as you lose consciousness.
You awake to a bemused Tower, who informs you your internal organs had nearly failed if not for an immediate application of magical healing.
You return to the location of your near demise with the intent to kill but sadly, the miscreant has long since vanished.
However, this Fire Emblem has left permanent scars that will not fade.
(Ellerie gains the Scorched skill.)

Scorched
Every quarter of HP lost adds 5 speed and 25 crit.

Expire

narrator
Your ruined innards crumble into itself. Your scorched body breathes its last.
Your dying mind recalls a fleeting memory.
The beautiful princess sits beneath a peach tree, a smile lighting up her face.
She waves at you to join her. You join her.
(Game over.)

If you give up at the second stage

smiley sam
A worthy attempt indeed! You should be proud, maybe this will lighten the burning.
(Ellerie receives Mana Cubes.)

Bloodbane

bloodbane
Even the flames of the mightiest dragons burn less than this!
Please, anything to dull the pain!

Give Elixir/Mystery Drink/Chef's Brew

bloodbane
I am saved! Chief Ellerie of Irinde? Much thanks.
ellerie
You have the right person.
bloodbane
I was heading to the Manor to celebrate Yalunzar's victory, but I must lay here and heal my ravaged organs.
Take this invitation in my stead.
ellerie
Why was I not already invited? This is outrageous.
narrator
Invitation Get!

Give nothing

bloodbane
Aaaaahhhh!

Jake (only present if you completed his quest)

jake
A promise is a promise. I'll give you 16 thousand gold worth from my selection.
How does that sound? Ready to pick?

Yes

jake
Good stuff, isn't it? You won't even find the Guild selling this level of quality.

No

jake
I'm not going anywhere, take your time.

Guild

Jujube

jujube
This world we live in, is cruel, prejudiced, unjust. Those who work hardest are naturally beaten back down, while those that are undeserving thrive.
Day upon a day, I am sickened by such injustice, forced to be an observer to this unending cycle of oppression.
I wish to be the blade that tears down this society, to rip apart its twisted frame at the seams, if only I had the strength.
... Oh, hello.
ellerie
Don't let me interrupt you. I'm just admiring this nice river.
jujube
That was... from a play I've been rehearsing.
ellerie
Yeah, sure. That's cool.
jujube
I'm leaving.
ellerie
This riverbank is big enough for the two of us.

Dockmaster

dockmaster
Who'd think someone as tiny as you would be the infamous Ellerie?
Fantastic work slaughtering those knightly scum out there.
ellerie
I'm not even that short, but yes we did a great job.
And you must be the Dockmaster?
dockmaster
Aye, the chief of security at Yalunzar. but more importantly for adventurers, the old man who give out bounties.
ellerie
That does have me intrigued. What bounties do you have?
dockmaster
The bounty board is right this way.
We got Cory McCrime who is at large after stealing seventy gold,
Dufus Hemingway who forged the-
ellerie
The Seahawks have to aim a little higher.
dockmaster
Picky, aren't you? There's a big reward for this, alive.
Only described as a dark-haired healer with a sword on her back.
She was a member of seven bands that disappeared in recent memory.
ellerie
No one comes to mind, but I will keep an eye out.
Wait, these posters are for the Pirate Sages aren't they?
50000 gold for each of them?
dockmaster
Real pieces of work they are.
Guild's tried getting rid of them for years.
ellerie
We made sure they won't be bothering anyone any longer.
dockmaster
Fantastic! Just hand over their heads and this massive sum of gold is yours.
ellerie
We obviously did not keep their heads, given this was weeks ago.
dockmaster
Then no can do.
ellerie
It's pretty well-known we slaughtered them. Just ask anyone down west of here.
dockmaster
Sorry, them the rules. No head, no reward. Can't go breaking them willy-nilly.
ellerie
Well that's just great. Say, could I add wanted posters to this board?
dockmaster
That is up to the local peacekeepers to decide, the Harbourmen and its leader, namely me.
Can't have anyone putting up bounties because of a private grudge.
ellerie
I do care much about the safety of Yalunzar's citizens, and am willing to donate this bag of gold for such a cause.
dockmaster
With dedication like that, how can I refuse ya?
Just give a name, description and crime, and I'll have it up in no time.
ellerie
His name is Maurice, and I can paint you a portrait myself.
As for crimes, there's 70 acts of violence against the innocent, fifty-three and a half schemes to commit bodily harm...
... Many, many crimes later...
-and 37 acts of public indecency, with fruits of various sizes.
dockmaster
Incredible. I don't know how I'll fit all this onto one poster, he must have offended you greatly.
ellerie
It's less about me and more about protecting the public from such a heinous individual.
dockmaster
Aye, he must be stopped at any cost.

Irinde

irinde 1
Have you seen these prices?
irinde 2
Yeah, bro. It's insane.
irinde 1
Some of the stuff though. That brave lance looking mighty fine.
Six thousand, though. That's my entire net worth.
irinde 2
Yeah, bro. Can't eat a brave lance, can't plant a brave lance.
irinde 1
But what if I did buy it?
irinde 2
Bro... You sure?
irinde 1
I'd be broke forever, but...
irinde 2
Please don't, bro.

Hovels

Oakhall Mage

mage
All I need is a patient soul to speak my grievances to.
Will you listen to this poor man's tale of woe?
ellerie
Do I have nothing better to do?

Yes

mage
Before we begin this tragic tale, I must begin with a scene from my childhood, so many years ago.
I remember it still so clearly, the yard covered entirely in fallen leaves, and Mother on the porch, sound asleep.
Some room for mischief, I thought to myself, and that foolish child made haste for...
ellerie
(closes eyes) Ellerie tried, and failed, to maintain her concentration.
She was sure she fell asleep once, but the storyteller, so enraptured by his own tale, paid no attention.
mage
And so, with a heavy heart, I left that tome hidden among the shelves.
So many years, so many lives, and nothing came of it, yet in that moment, I felt truly free.
Thank you, traveller, for listening to my story. A heavy weight is lifted.
I will now depart the Crescent and never return to this cursed land.
(The mage leaves.)
ellerie
... A secluded bookshelf on the second floor.
I don't even remember the context for this.
Just that the tome was ancient and caused problems.

No

ellerie
No.
mage
Oh.

Quest

A secluded bookshelf on the second floor, holds some tome that is... problematic.
(Chapter 19)

Rosswick

rosswick
I've seen famed adventurers come and go, but you have a greater destiny than most.
ellerie
I am flattered, but why so?
rosswick
Because you're a lance appreciator!
Almost every recent famed adventurer rejects the lance for inferior weaponry, the sword, the bow, and worst of all, some even delve into... magic.
ellerie
I can tell that you must be a true master.
rosswick
Indeed, Master Rosswick they call me.
ellerie
Master Rosswick! I've long heard of your exploits.
(Rings no bells whatsoever.)
rosswick
All that is in the past, now I'm just an old man with too much time.
While I suspect I can teach you little about the lance anymore, my knowledge of the White Wastes is second to none.
Why, I was the first to make an almost complete map of it.
ellerie
News that we're heading there has traveled that quickly?
rosswick
When your crew buys warm coats on the warm coast, there's only one place where you're going.
ellerie
Please do share your wisdom.
rosswick
Frosthaven is the easy part.
The first hurdle is the Frozen Field of Endless Torment, but fear not, whoever named it was a real weakling.
Advance with caution, watch your weight, and you'll live.
Past that is the Icy Bog of Mild Disappointment, which is aptly named so won't be very hard to traverse.
After that is-
ellerie
(I don't think any of this matters as we're just going to fly over.)
rosswick
And ah! One more thing you might like, given you started off grave robbing.
ellerie
That was a period in my life I'd rather forget.
rosswick
Ancient texts say in the White Wastes lie the grave of an ancient one, holding the countless wealth they gathered in life.
No one's found it, but you could be the first.
ellerie
Should I try to desecrate the dead?

Yes

ellerie
I will keep an eye out. Thank you for the advice, Master Rosswick.
rosswick
The future is in the hands of ones such as yourself.

No

ellerie
Given my last experiences, I suspect graverobbing might not be my forte.
rosswick
And not mine either, as I never tried finding it myself!

Quest

A grave within the White Wastes holds unmeasurable wealth. Maybe, Rosswick could just be making it up.
(Chapter 18)

Child

girl
Big sister!
ellerie
(smiles) What do you need?
girl
I see you go over the wall a lot, you must be very brave.
Is the fighting against the bad guys really over?
ellerie
We've driven off the forces of evil, no need for worry.
You are safe within these walls.

If John XVI is alive

(A woman cries out from one of the buildings.)
young woman
Help! Help! Anybody! Someone! Help!
(A player-aligned zombie lurches towards her and kills her as she screams.)
girl
Ah! Aaahh! Aaaaahhhhh!
ellerie
(serious) Uh, town guard! Ah, harbourmen!
Over here!

If John XVI is dead

girl
I wanted to thank the soldiers by giving this wooden flower I made, but they look really scary.
You don't, can you take this?
ellerie
Aww, of course. I'll cherish it.

Villagers

(Two villagers stand beside a ruined house.)
young woman
(grinning) I prayed to whatever's out there that there's another war.
And my prayers were answered!
Business is just through the roof for my little armory,
the Guild is buying my entire stock every day.
Made enough to buy a ton of land for cheap since their owners died.
Blood is the lubricant of business! I am living the dream.
man
Why? Why did this have to happen? My home, my husband, my business, all gone.
Because the Iron Prince wasn't getting good prices?
I curse him, I wish only death upon him and his cursed spawn.
If only this was all a nightmare.

Manor Guard

If you have Bloodbane's invite

guard 1
I thought they deliberately chose to misplace your invite.
guard 2
Idiot! He is making a jest, madam. You are welcome.

If not

guard 1
Invite-only.
guard 2
We know you're the Chief of Irinde.
guard 1
But still invite-only.

Docks

Chixin & Hagendire

hagendire
Still haven't found a worthy individual of wielding you?
chixin
The individual with the designation SAVAGE is hindering communications.
hagendire
And also because you haven't met me.
I am Hagendire, scion of House Hawk, descendent of the mighty hero Horn Hawkblade and I am of the blood-
chixin
Request processed. Response: nothing to do with you.
hagendire
Do you know who I am?
chixin
Already processed. Worthiness and ancestry = no correlation. How shallow.
hagendire
That's the most absurd thing I've ever heard!
Then you tell me what the metrics are.
chixin
Indicator: Above average appearance. Not met.
Suggests low compatibility.
hagendire
And you say I'm shallow? I don't believe this. Give me a try.
chixin
Allow me to shatter your hopes by running a full test.
ANALYZING...
POTENTIAL...
COMPATIBILITY...
hagendire
What's the result?
chixin
...
hagendire
You've gone real quiet. I'm ready for the result.
chixin
...
hagendire
Let me guess, one hundred percent compatibility? Limitless potential?
That would sound about right. Who could have thought-
(Chixin leaves.)
hagendire
Hey, where are you going?

Foxberry & Oriana

foxberry
Are you satisfied with your position in the crew?
Do you think you'll make for a far better captain?
oriana
Yes and the Captain won't be pleased to hear this question.
Can't you go bother her instead with this incessant questioning?
foxberry
The masses want to know more about you, Quartermaster!
The mysterious dancer whose skills puts swordmasters to shame.
It would sell very well.
oriana
Urgh.
foxberry
Another thing people want to know, why do you keep your hair over one eye?
oriana
Because that eye is gone and this looks better than an eye patch.
I would prefer to have this relaxation time to myself, if you don't mind.
foxberry
Don't be so grumpy! Think of it as unsolicited advertising when I'm done with my latest book.
oriana
I could care less what other people think of me.
foxberry
Think of it this way, what if you died in battle tomorrow?
My book would be the only thing people would know you by!
oriana
I think I'd prefer to be forgotten.
foxberry
There's still just a few more questions to-
oriana
As the Quartermaster, I'm responsible for the supplies of each member of crew.
While I try to be impartial, I do let my biases get to me, you understand?
foxberry
Alright, no more questions.
This won't look as good in my book, just saying.
oriana
I will be forced to live with that.

Telon & Rohesia

telon
I've long heard of your incredible exploits on the Crescent, Headtaker.
I grew up hearing tales of how you felled thirty-two dragons in one day.
It would be a great honour if you allow me to face you in a duel.
rohesia
(smiles) It's been over a decade since my last duel, I do want to relive those days.
In challenging me, you're certainly not a youth lacking in boldness, and I like that.
(Oriana rushes over.)
oriana
Can we have a second, Telon?
rohesia
You interfering in my business, Oriana?
oriana
No, Mother, I just need Telon for a small matter.
(Oriana takes Telon aside.)
telon
What's the big deal, Quartermaster?
oriana
You are going to say you've come down with a serious stomach ache, and will have to delay the duel.
Indefinitely.
telon
Quartermaster, I know she is your mother, but that doesn't give you the right to-
oriana
You are going to do as I say, because if I ever hear there was a duel, I don't care if everyone came out of it better for it, and that no one was injured.
I will skin you alive and hang it as an example to others, are we clear?
telon
Clear as crystal, Quartermaster.
rohesia
(offscreen)
You two done? I'm aching for a good workout.
oriana
I'm glad we could have this discussion.
(Oriana leaves.)
telon
...

If Foxberry is alive

foxberry
I thought we were getting a sweet duel between an old legend and a rising star, but nothing happened.
That could have made a really good scene in my book.
oriana
(smiles) Perhaps Telon is having an off day.
What a pity.

Lindros, Nerysa, & Iosaf

nerysa
Look again into your memories.
Do you remember anything else that shouldn't be there?
iosaf
Still nothing.
nerysa
Almost familiar faces you've never met?
Perhaps architecture that you've never visited?
iosaf
I've seen a few weird houses, but I don't pay much attention to funny buildings.
nerysa
Situations that should've been impossible for yourself to be in?
iosaf
There was no longer being the best, but I've come to terms with that.
Is that all? I have to arm wrestle Oren in a few minutes.
nerysa
Yes, you can go. Thank you for your time.
(Iosaf leaves.)
lindros
We still can't draw the conclusion that sentient monsters are amalgamations of ancient memories, especially with one sample and mixed results.
This interview hasn't taken us anywhere.
nerysa
I believe the results are close enough that we can put a tick on it, especially since it holds no practical concerns in our experimentation.
lindros
Close enough? But this would be a serious breach of academic integrity!
Excuse my outburst, I was just unfamiliar with such proceedings.
nerysa
You are excused. If we all needed overwhelming evidence for each study, then we'd achieve nothing.
The Archsages do the same, glossing over some details.
lindros
But- But-
nerysa
You think Archsage Parion came up with his breakthrough theories in tome printing with rigorous testing?
No, he just took some correlations, drew hasty conclusions and just happened to be correct.
lindros
... I'll be back shortly, I need to go recollect the pieces of my worldview.

Reiker, Raylin, Gecko, & Krynia

reiker
You know what I'm thinking?
raylin
You-
reiker
And don't you dare say “You think?"
raylin
The fact that you had to clarify says enough.
reiker
We're being overshadowed by all these wacky people with weird backgrounds.
gecko
Wacky people?
reiker
There's that girl chosen by the goddess, a famous archsage, an exiled knight captain and that... zombie thing.
You know, people that sound unique or important, not just teenagers like us.
raylin
Yes, I suppose when the Seahawks are brought up, people think of them, not us.
reiker
What do you think, Gecko? You agree right?
gecko
Well, it doesn't really bother me-
reiker
Yeah, you do agree.
raylin
But put it this way, because we're just normal people and not, let's say, able to turn into a dragon, we look more accomplished in comparison, don't we?
gecko
...
reiker
Yeah, you're right! We're more special.
(Krynia approaches.)
krynia
Twins, Gecko, we're having lunch in-
raylin
Sorry, we've decided this is an exclusive meeting for like-minded individuals.
reiker
Yeah, dragon girl. You aren't invited.
Wacky person.
gecko
... Don't look at me. I didn't agree to anything.
krynia
What's with you two all of a sudden?

Pub (requires Warping the crates blocking the door)

ellerie
I hear a lot of shouting, screaming and banging.
Busy evening?
man
Yes, but I am ever grateful to my customers. Would you like anything?
ellerie
Are you going to let me in first?
man
I think it's best for the both of us if you just order from here.
ellerie
I'll trust your judgment. I'll have today's special.
man
Here you go. Maybe avoid this area for the evening.
(Ellerie receives a Hearty Stew.)

Estate

Tasel & Mitchell

tasel
-and so with that borrowed gold, another forty barrels I bought at Hightide, sailing for Irinde.
mitchell
What an audacious, yet lucrative strategy.
tasel
I hired the fastest ship I could to outrun the foul men of the sea, yet I couldn't anticipate the treachery of my own crew!
mitchell
With such experience gained, surely a second try will reap outrageous profits.
tasel
I'm still working off my debt to that red-haired Chief.
Even now, she thinks it must be due to my incompetence.
And perhaps, she is right.
mitchell
There was a time of my life where anything I touched turned to dust.
But I persevered, and those who mocked now look on with envy.
Do not question the soundness of your ideas, Tasel.
tasel
But that is you, and I am Tasel. A failed trader in debt, with nothing.
mitchell
With your mind and given the same opportunity as me, I don't doubt you'd make it as one of the Merchant Kings.
tasel
Oh, you exaggerate!
mitchell
How about this, I'll pay off whatever debt you owe, and you come work for me.
tasel
Such a generous offer, but to one met so soon?
mitchell
A small debt is mere change to me, you need not be concerned.
tasel
No, friend. I cannot accept this.
There is only one road to reclaim my pride, and it is without shortcuts.
I'll work off my debt alone and I'll earns chests and chests of gold, amass riches that could put kings to shame. Only then, can I be satisfied.
mitchell
Is there nothing I can do?
tasel
(smiles) You've already helped me more than I could have hoped for.
For hope it is what you have given me. Thank you, friend.

The Cannibal

the cannibal
Three of Bloodbane's associates are hiding in Frosthaven. Bring them to me instead,
alive, and 2000 gold for each. Yes or no?
ellerie
Where's the preamble? Aren't you supposed to say “I have a rather... discreet job, if you know my meaning." And dance around the fact it's a hit on your colleague?
the cannibal
If you're going to waste my time, I have others.
Yes or no. Right now.

Yes

the cannibal
Now, wasn't that time-efficient.

No

the cannibal
Maybe the Fine Fifteen are more open to this task.

Quest

The Cannibal wants me to “escort" three associates safely from Frosthaven. 2000 gold for each head.
(Chapter 20)

Guildmaster

guildmaster
A surprise to see you at such a gathering, Lady Ellerie.
I assumed no interest in such talks between merchants.
ellerie
I am no lady. The Crescent reserves titles as such for the Mainland's soft highborn.
guildmaster
Are you not the same Lady Ellerie, that is the friend, advisor, lover or manipulator of the late Princess, depending on who one asks?
ellerie
I should have expected one as knowledgeable as the Guild's leader to know of such, not that I've kept my identity a secret.
House Heron has disowned me regardless.
guildmaster
Perhaps so, but given your miraculous escape, I suspect your house hasn't quite abandoned you.
And your rapid rise to power has been rather convenient.
ellerie
Pawns like myself know little of my place on the board, but if this was true, with their patronage of the Guild and my rise, they're in a far better position to make a takeover of the Crescent.
guildmaster
Interesting, that is no plan I have heard.
They've always been satisfied with profits of the status quo.
ellerie
Merely a hypothesis, but not unreasonable. Regardless, we'll be seeing much of each other moving forward.
guildmaster
Indeed, let us toast to a healthy alliance.

Mince

ellerie
Mince? What are you doing here?
mince
Doing some catering, Chief.
Most of their chefs got killed during the invasion, so they needed replacements.
It's great, pretty good pay, full creative control, plenty of ingredients to work with, paid for living and meal expenses.
They liked me so much, even asked me to go full-time.
ellerie
Unscrupulous employers tend to front-load their benefits to strip them away later.
mince
You worried, Chief? I declined their offer, just for you.
Aren't you glad to have the Mince around?
ellerie
Yes, indeed I am.
mince
I knew you love me too much to see me go.
ellerie
(smiles) Damn right. Now hand me that snack, I'm expecting it be good.

Smart Fella

merchant 1
Ever have the concern, “I just have so much gold, what do I do with it all?"
Well, I have the answer for you!
merchant 2
Give us your gold!
merchant 1
Ever wonder, there's javelins and handaxes, but no sword equivalent?
But wonder no more!
merchant 2
Give us your gold!
merchant 1
The latest innovation in the weapon world, taking the Crescent by storm!
The throwing sword!
merchant 2
Give us your gold! And we'll pay you back with more gold,
When we multiply it tenfold! Probably.
ellerie
Can I see this product?
merchant 2
Well...
merchant 1
We only had one so...
merchant 2
We threw it and lost it.
merchant 1
But that's not important! We'll have new ones in no time.
merchant 2
Give us your gold!
ellerie
Give them my gold? (5000)

If you have less than 5000 gold

ellerie
(I don't even have 5000 gold left.)
Too much gold appears to be not a problem I am experiencing.
merchant 1
Then please be on your way!
Waste of time.
merchant 2
Give us your gold.

Yes

ellerie
You can have my gold, but we're writing a contract for my rights in this transaction.
merchant 1
How about we just discuss this when we actually make money?
ellerie
No. We're discussing this now.
merchant 2
Do we really need her gold this much?
narrator
Investment Made!

No

ellerie
You don't even have a product. What is your plan here?
merchant 1
You'll be sorry when you see throwing swords in every store!

Ending

ellerie
Am I ready to depart?
dune
Chief, you should know that our troops are growing restless.
It's starting to reflect in their conduct.
ellerie
Yes, I've definitely heard more than my fair share of complaints from the Guild.
The good folk of Irinde made no complaint during a chain of brutal battles, yet cannot handle weeks of respite.
dune
If we are to enjoy peace, it will be in our homes, not spent in this vile city.
ellerie
It is my mistake for drawing out this campaign,
they aren't professional troops and should not be treated as such.
dune
As they, and I, see it, we've done our job. The Chief- former Chief has been rescued, our enemies are bloodied, the Guild has been humbled, and we can rest well on our laurels.
ellerie
If we want to maximize this war's value for Irinde, there is more to be done.
But Irinde's forces have done more than enough.
dune
Very well, I will begin making preparations to retreat.
ellerie
You're coming too.
dune
Come again?
ellerie
The Ironsmiths are supposed to be Irinde's foremost warriors. The next battles are where the war will end.
Are you really going to miss out on this chance to reaffirm the reputation of your family name?
dune
The war's practically already over. The Iron Realms and allies can't come back from a defeat this serious.
ellerie
Yes, but that's not what the bards will be singing.
The grandest victories are always at the end.
dune
I suppose that does ring true. But who shall lead Irinde in our absence?
ellerie
I have candidates in mind.
ellerie
How's the Guard Captain?
potato
Still maimed and immobile.
ellerie
Congratulations. As Chief of Irinde, I'm promoting you two to joint acting Commander of Irinde's forces.
he who chops
Huh? Why?
ellerie
You're the only two faces I recognise.
I'm sure there's enough brain between the two of you to get my orders through.
potato
That seems like a great decision!
he who chops
That means more work?
More work is bad.
potato
We can order people around now.
he who chops
We can get other people to do work for us?
ellerie
You are to lead everyone back to Irinde safely.
potato
Easy.
ellerie
And try to prevent our forces from getting into more drunken squabbles with the townsfolk.
he who chops
No can do, Chief.
ellerie
Don't forget to keep vigilant.
Wouldn't want the Guild to be up to any funny business.
(Ellerie leaves.)
potato
Finally, we get to go home. I thought I'd never miss my tomato patch, but I do.
he who chops
I think war might actually not be all that great.
potato
Who would have guessed.

Guildhall

guildmaster
To meet again so soon, and the last time in a while,
for I hear you are making a hasty departure.
ellerie
Our elite force will strike our foes at their core.
With the Iron Prince and their allies on the retreat, Irinde too shall return home.
guildmaster
Perhaps Yalunzar will at last have nights without drunken revelry and brawls.
Is the former Chief still in your company?
ellerie
He is indeed.
guildmaster
I am surprised you keep close, given his potential to rally Irinde behind him.
ellerie
A rockheaded man like him serves little threat to my plans.
guildmaster
I cannot say that is a flaw of his, for it may be what saved my life.
I'd like to see this given to him as a small recompense.
ellerie
(50000 gold?) I will ensure he receives your gratitude.

If you pillaged 2-3 houses

guildmaster
I'll be sorry to see a valued ally such as yourself depart,
though I suspect some others in the Guild do not share that sentiment.
ellerie
And why would that be the case?
guildmaster
There's been certain rumors going that it was your Seahawks responsible for certain losses sustained in the raid.
ellerie
They'll spread whatever they want to hear.
I know you're far too prudent to buy into such hogwash.
guildmaster
Of course, I don't buy into such rumor mills.

If you pillaged 4+ houses

guildmaster
I'll be sorry to see a valued ally such as yourself depart,
though a few others of the Guild would see you out the gates.
ellerie
That's rather ungrateful of them, given all we've done for Yalunzar.
guildmaster
Given their homes were victims of your adventurers' pillaging, it is not an unreasonable sentiment.
ellerie
They have some nerve, foisting these crimes onto us.
guildmaster
Yes, yes, I can hardly believe adventurers, so well known for their honor and decency, could partake in such a criminal act.

If you pillaged 0-1 houses

guildmaster
I'll be sorry to see a valued ally such as yourself depart.
ellerie
I hope our alliance continues to bear fruit moving ahead, as we represent the little semblance of civility left on the Crescent.
guildmaster
I do like to think of myself as a pillar of civilization.

guildmaster
I wish you a swift and brutal victory.
ellerie
And I wish Yalunzar a speedy recovery.

White Wastes

(The Frostfires gather.)
daffodil
If I had led instead of that Sequoia, we wouldn't be in this situation!
I could have turned the battle around.
unari
As someone who brought the Cormorants up from nothing, Sequoia is no charlatan.
We're lucky you weren't in that battle as you'd likely not survive the Seahawks.
daffodil
Seahawks, Seahawks, Seahawks! What's it with them? What did we even do to them?
unari
There's no point in tormenting yourself with hypotheticals. Take an early rest,
you've been highly strung these past days.
(Daffodil leaves.)
bardiche
So many Frostfires dead, and with nothing to show for it.
unari
We've taken a serious beating, but we're not out of the running yet.
Another year, and we can shore up our losses with the Archsage.
bardiche
We might not have another year, Boss. Our men, families need to be paid.
We need lines of supplies to keep our operations in the frozen city moving.
And that's before taking into account what resources the Archsage needs.
unari
Do you think I don't know that?
Frosthaven is a frigid trap that lures in the bold and the desperate.
As long as we have another chance to defeat the Guild, it is worth it.
bardiche
And if another Green Tide hits our side of the coast now, Frosthaven is done.
The Guild doesn't want this war to go on any longer than we do, Boss.
As long as we throw enough incentives at them, they'll take it up.
unari
But you remember what happened last time the Guild had us under their thumb.
What, we keep throwing our artifacts and relics at them at unreasonable rates?
Keep Frosthaven going for one year only to be gouged again the next?
bardiche
There's something we can offer to sweeten the deal a bit.
unari
I'd love to hear it, Bardiche.
bardiche
Your head.
(The Frostfires turn hostile.)
unari
A mutiny? I thought better of you.
bardiche
Not quite. A duel to the death for the position of commander of the Frostfires.
unari
That's a barbaric practice. I'll have you know, I was democratically elected to my position.
bardiche
We need a way out. The war was your call, and its brought us to the edge of ruin.
I am no dishonorable man. If you are to emerge victorious, pin the blame all on me.
It might satiate them enough to give Frosthaven another year, another chance.
unari
Daffodil! You're going to let his nonsense unfold?
daffodil
Uh- Boss, I dunno, I-
bardiche
Stay out of it, Daffodil. It's between me and the Boss.
daffodil
R- Right.
(Daffodil steps back.)
bardiche
Boss, I really didn't want things to come to this.
You can have the first strike.
unari
Alright. Here I come.
(Unari runs.)
bardiche
... She ran away? Damn it, go after her!
daffodil
Bardiche! I- I didn't want this, you said you were going to discuss things!
bardiche
Our morale is crumbling, confidence in the boss shaken.
The Frostfires need a big change to maintain stability.
daffodil
Even so, I wasn't, wasn't-
bardiche
You think the Boss cares about your excuses?
In her eyes, you betrayed her by doing nothing.
If you don't want to give her a chance for revenge, get moving.
daffodil
...
(The Frostfires chase after Unari.)

Character Descriptions

Fine Fellow
A third-rate adventurer that leads a third-rate adventuring band. Incompetent and destined for failure.

Oily Oates
A member of the merchant kings known for turning massive profits from the Green Tide, at the cost of the victims.

The Gamer
An old fool who clearly wasted most of his life chasing meaningless pursuits and now has nothing to show for it.

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.

Jake
A man of many talents. Has skill in sailing, archery and mechanics but decided to focus on bartending.

Smiley Sam
A punchable looking fellow who must be craving attention with this stunt.

Fate Frier
Makes cookies and allegedly tells fortunes. I am sure the fortune gimmick is to inflate the price of these cookies.

Meat Man
Aptly named.

Bloodbane
Formerly a famed adventurer, decided to switch to a much safer career choice. Clearly, this is a man with smart decisions.

Dockmaster
The head of the Harbourmen. Doesn't actually know a thing about docks, the title is just an old tradition.

Jujube
A renowned dancer that seems to have been overtaken by a great melancholy. Talks to herself a lot.

Rosswick
A retired adventurer that spends his days doing... whatever old people do? I have no idea.

Mitchell
The newest member of the Merchant Kings. Is secretly happy most of the people above him in the Guild died.

The Cannibal
His nickname refers to his business practices, not a taste for human flesh. Or so I've been told.

Guildmaster
The ancient head of the Guild whose presence has shaped the Crescent for decades. That will end with me.

Smart Fella
Entrepreneurs with a good eye for opportunity in the Crescent's market.

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

Harbourmen
A decades old organisation dedicated to peacekeeping in Yalunzar. Despite the name, are no longer limited to only men.

Fine Fifteen
A third-rate adventuring band. Notably, less than fifteen people.

Hammerheads
A famous adventuring band and most well known for their brutal tactics, that is, before we came on the scene.

Oakhall
Oakhall's many apprentices hoping to uncover the Crescent's secrets in the name of knowledge but mostly for power.

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

Civilian
Civilian becomes a synonym for collateral damage very quickly.

Child
A bundle of hopes and dreams.

Villager
Not so harmless now, huh?

Hired Hand
Able-bodied fighters paid to protect their employer, and failing at that.

The Guild
Various merchants and artisans that make up the bulk of the Guild. Say what you will, their skill is undeniable.

Loot
Just gonna yoink this while no one's looking. Or smash it.

Dice
Gaming.