? Objectives:
? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (0/4)
? Acquire the following ingredients: (2/4)
? Honey
? Assorted spices
?
?
But most importantly, you've now acquainted yourself with the wonders of cart services!
Now, it's time to leave the High Market and venture onto the street that makes the Marlock famous, lined with crafting guilds on either side…
You and Annessa, followed by your cart and its attendant, take to the right side of the Maker's Marlock, headed down toward the city center. The street is lined with greenery, healthy and recently trimmed—several greenskeepers are employed by the governor's office for this purpose, Annessa says. Looking at the crowds flowing all the way down to the city center, you notice that unlike the nobles in the Royal District, the crafting guilds here in Mayika have no qualms about hiring hobgoblins. A meter to meter-and-a-half in height, they skip in and out of the Marlock's storefronts, often by private entrances, before scuttling away between the larger figures of the crowd. Some of them are liveried, and some are clearly temporary hires from the Rise, but all of them shoot through the crowds with an eagerness that belies the laborious nature of their tasks.
You keep to the right as Annessa suggested, but there's plenty enough to occupy your observations on this side alone. You pass a novelty store, displaying old heirlooms and exotic furniture; something you'd only expect to see in a district catering to the most wealthy, but here its prices seem aimed towards prosperous merchants and the like. Then you pass a store dedicated to grooming and personal cosmetic supplies, something you've only seen in the imperial capital. The real one. You take your eyes from the rows of potted blossoms in front of the cosmetics store; once again, the prosperity of this relatively small trade hub in the middle of what most Arkavians view as a wasteland is enough to stun your imperial sensibilities.
The next store on your right is the Blackhammer Steelworks, its fa?ade framed with ornate ironworks and tastefully placed greenery, and you enter without delay.
?
— The Blackhammer Steelworks —
The Steelworks storefront has a distinct smell—you can't quite place it, but it's cleaner and lighter than any forge smell you've experienced before. You look around, remembering to check their wares for the purpose of comparing them with the Cheerful Trader's, but to your dismay half the displays are empty.
You can hear the universally recognizable clanging of a blacksmith pounding on hot metal—two blacksmiths, by the sound of things—but it's surprisingly distant, and you wonder how far back the workshop goes. You notice that as you enter the door, there's a large room on your left that connects to the Singing Silversmiths guild beyond—a sort of shared fitting room. And even the workshop behind it appears to be shared. You recognize this as a fairly efficient setup, considering the amount of overlap between their specialties that even a single suit of armor would require, adventurer armor more so.
You approach their store clerk. She appears very young, childish even, but her demeanor is seriously professional and precociously serious.
Which, for some reason, just makes her especially adorable.
STEELWORKS CLERK: How may I help you?
[GUILDMASTER]:
—
—<1> Good afternoon! I'm the new Guildmaster of the Mayika adventurer guild. Would we be able to post a recruitment notice somewhere in your store?
STEELWORKS CLERK: Our guild officer just stepped out, but I believe I can speak in her stead. I think we'd be happy to support your guild. Look behind you and you'll see our own advertisements—any open spot on the board will do.
Startlingly, the combination between her adorable appearance and professional demeanor is just too cute. You'd never understood why people pat children on the head, but now you find yourself having to hold your own arm down.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you very much.
In just a few seconds, Annessa has her notice perfectly placed.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (1/4)
—<2> It looks like you guys are low on products…
STEELWORKS CLERK: I apologize, we are extremely busy at the moment. You're welcome to place an order, but it may take some time to complete.
[GUILDMASTER]: Sounds rough. Are you guys low on staff?
She shakes her head with pristine gentleness, but even so it causes her bangs to drift from side to side.
STEELWORKS CLERK: We simply have far more work than usual.
She doesn't offer more, and you decide to press her. This strikes you as very odd…
[GUILDMASTER]: Could I ask what's keeping you so busy?
She purses her lips, and again you have to hold your arm down.
STEELWORKS CLERK: …We have a reliable client who values their privacy. I don't think I can offer much more than that.
…Well now you just have even more questions.
[GUILDMASTER]: …Hm. Thank you.
—<3> Since I don't see what I'm looking for on display, could I ask some questions about pricing for low-grade gear?
You query her about the kinds of gear you expect to need in the upcoming months, and compare her information to what you remember of the Cheerful Trader's prices. The Steelworks gear is anywhere between 10% to 30% more expensive, and from the impression Messen gave you it's not likely to be of significantly higher quality.
You are very impressed by how much she knows, and your arm again becomes restless.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you very much, that was extremely helpful.
STEELWORKS CLERK: I'm happy to hear it.
—
[GUILDMASTER]: That's all, I think. Thank you for your time.
STEELWORKS CLERK: Your business is appreciated, please come again.
You decide you probably shouldn't take the shortcut through the fitting shop if you have no business there, so you leave the Steelworks through the front door.
You turn to Annessa as the glare of the sun and clamor of the crowds fall on you at once.
[GUILDMASTER]: Okay I need to know if this is just me—but that store clerk… For some reason I felt the need to pat her head, you know? Like every ten seconds I had to restrain myself.
ANNESSA: Don't worry, it's not just you—Tami is vulnerable to it as well.
You make sure she can hear your relieved sigh even over the crowd.
[GUILDMASTER]: It's good to know I'm not alone… But what about you?
ANNESSA: I am possessed of an iron will and unyielding restraint. Such temptations have no hold on me—strong as they might be.
[GUILDMASTER]: Very impressive. It seems I have much to aspire to.
Your next stop might as well be the Silversmiths, just a dozen meters down the street on your right. Your cart services attendant follows you with your vegetables, and you take the time to thank him for his help, to which he responds with a smile and some kind of salute.
There are several benches along the wall on the way, framed by trellises and potted plants. One of these benches is occupied, and as you walk you can't help but exercise your bad habit of listening in on other people's conversations.
WEALTHY WOMAN: Hmm, you think that one's good?
WEALTHY SON: Of course, it's so cool!
WEALTHY WOMAN: But will it be good enough for his standards…?
WEALTHY SON: It doesn't have to be! It's just for the wedding anyways!
WEALTHY WOMAN: Unghhh… It's going to cost so much to get them to make it in time…
WEALTHY SON: But this is his chance! When's the next time there's going to be a wedding like this?!
WEALTHY WOMAN: …Well, yes… And it does look quite dazzling…
Soon enough, you're underneath the sign depicting an etched silver hammer overlaying a vibrant halo.
?
— Singing Silversmiths —
The Singing Silversmiths guild is the city's best choice for enchanted leatherworking products and mail armors, and enchantments in general. Annessa quickly notes that their name references their specialization in runic inscriptions, rather than jewelry making. While they do a considerable amount of goldsmithing, the Marling Jewelers is where you'd want to go for that specific purpose.
The unmistakable smell of rune dust rushes into your nose as soon as you open the door, tingly and… silvery, somehow. The lighting is different from the storefront of the Steelworks, and not even deliberately—the sheer amount of enchantments in the area, crafted or stored or even just recently passed through, leaves a lingering ambient gloom that you won't see anywhere else.
Again, you notice that there's frustratingly little in their storefront displays. For sure, most customers would be placing custom orders rather than purchasing stock enchantments, but you're sure that isn't the cause of this.
You approach their storefront assistant.
SILVERSMITHS ASSOCIATE: Welcome! You are new clients? What can I assist you with?
You explain to him that you're the new adventurer's Guildmaster and will likely be a frequent customer in the coming days.
SILVERSMITHS ASSOCIATE: That's wonderful! I mean, we're incredibly glad to hear that, you know, for business and all. But also because… well, we lost a member to a monster attack on their caravan just last year…
[GUILDMASTER]: Ah… My condolences. I lost my father in a similar way. We are very eager to begin our work again, believe me.
SILVERSMITHS ASSOCIATE: Thank you. We really do wish to support you. Ah, but… Uh, excuse me. I'm afraid that our services are currently unavailable due to previous commitments. The wares on display are all we have available at this time.
Yeah. So. Something is definitely going on here. You glance at Annessa and notice the hint of concern on her face, but she doesn't know any more than you do.
[GUILDMASTER]: Okay. May I ask why?
SILVERSMITHS ASSOCIATE: Previous commitments! We're really quite busy, with the previous commitments and all! But our low-level enchanters should be available quite soon, so please do let us know if you need anything!
[GUILDMASTER]: Alright, we'll do that. In the meantime, we're hoping to recruit new adventurers as soon as possible. Do you have a space where we could post a public notice?
SILVERSMITHS ASSOCIATE: Oh yes, please! Right over there on the wall next to door to the fitting shop. Here, let me take something down to make some space…
The young client associate hurries over and takes a moment to struggle with one of the little nails in the board. As soon as he is successful—no seriously, literally as soon as he pulls his hand away, Annessa has replaced the poster with her own.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (2/4)
The Singing Silversmiths client associate is quite pleased by this, and even compliments the quality of the notice and its handwriting. She returns his compliment with a pleasant smile and tiny bow of utter grace. You get the sense that she is very pleased—mostly just because you were here to witness it.
[GUILDMASTER]:
—
—<1> Alright, alright. You did well. I mean, I admit that your handwriting is quite superior.
She says nothing, but flashes you a smug smirk.
—<2> Hmm… your S's need a little more curl I think, and the spacing between your letters is off in some places. Have you thought about taking a lesson in calligraphy from the House curia?
The glare she gives you is the most hostile thing you've ever felt in your life. You make sure to savor the moment.
You thank the Silversmiths associate and leave their store.
Continuing down the road, it's not long before you and your faithful cart follower reach the Royal Carpentry Guild, marked by a sign showing a crown set upon a tree stump. You have no particular business here yet, but you have a few things in mind down the road that would require their services.
?
— Royal Carpentry Guild —
The smell of woodworking is pleasant to you as always, and something about the interior of the storefront, likely the combination of warm lighting and the stacks of processed lumber on display, feels quite cozy.
Their assistant could easily be mistaken for a noble, though lacking the unnecessarily ornamented clothing.
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: Greetings and welcome! Please let us know what we can assist you with, but be aware that we are very behind schedule. You are free to place a reservation for a custom order, but otherwise our services are mostly limited to the stock you see on display today.
…Okay.
You don't even need to look at Annessa to feel her apprehensive gaze survey the room twice over and the assistant thrice.
[GUILDMASTER]: …Okay. Thank you for the welcome. I'm curious though, what has you behind schedule?
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: We have been commissioned for a large project and thus we are currently unable to assist most of our customers. My apologies.
[GUILDMASTER]:
—
—<1> A large project? Larger than usual?
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: I am sorry but it would be bad form for us to freely speak of other client's orders. But please, let me know if there's anything you need.
—<2> So what kind of services do you usually provide?
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: We're one of two carpentry guilds in this city, and while I would speak well of Tower Top's crafters, our materials, craftsmanship, and repertoire are second to none in the Heartlands. Our clients include Mayika's noble class, in its entirety, and even the royal family. But not just—we are constantly working to expand the availability of our services to those of any means.
Toys, furnishings, scabbards and scoreboards, signs and sortments—all are our trade and joy. Construction, coaches, carriages, carts and wagons, even vehicles of war… Anything that involves woodshopping—quality woodshopping—will come and go through the hands of our guild's craftsmen.
[GUILDMASTER]: That is quite the list…
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: It is, and I'm sure I wasn't thorough.
[GUILDMASTER]: It was certainly thorough enough for my needs, thank you.
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: Of course! May I help you with anything else?
—<3> The Steelworks and Silversmiths said something similar, about being busy and out of stock…
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: Well. I'm not too surprised… We work closely with the Steelworks for many of our products and services, and the Silversmiths on occasion as well. But I'm simply not informed enough to be able to help further.
[GUILDMASTER]: Well. Thanks anyways.
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: Just let me know if I might be able to do anything else for you!
—
[GUILDMASTER]: Alright… Well, as the new Guildmaster of the Mayika adventurer guild, we are trying to intensify our recruitment efforts. May we post a notice somewhere on your property?
CARPENTRY GUILD ASSISTANT: Oh! I'm quite sure that would be welcomed! Here, place it on the front side of the desk with the others… just be gentle with the nail!
Before you know it, Annessa is crouched in front of your knees with her hammer in hand.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (3/4)
Your business done, you leave the Carpentry Guild to rejoin the stream of afternoon shoppers.
As you shuffle into the crowd, Annessa steps up beside you and you share concerned looks.
[GUILDMASTER]: So…
ANNESSA: No, I've never seen this happen before. Sometimes the Steelworks will be behind schedule, yes, and you'll hear nobles shouting for their orders to be jumped in line. But this…
[GUILDMASTER]: It's downright suspicious, though not necessarily in a bad way… I guess. But I can't think of anything that would cause it. Some royal project, got to be…
She nods.
[GUILDMASTER]: But what even… I mean, if it were just the smithy and the Silversmiths, I'd say the kingdom was gearing up a new company or two. But I doubt that could escape the notice of the public…
ANNESSA: They'd need an outside source of reliable personnel. I just don't see it.
You decide to ask the cart attendant if he knows anything.
CART ATTENDANT: Nothing you haven't heard, I'm afraid. Been like this for almost a month now, though. The nobles are up in arms about it, but most of 'em can still get what they need, if at a steep price.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thanks…
You and Annessa both sigh, and decide to leave the subject be for now.
Passing a couple novelty stores and a few other uninteresting shops, you soon find the Northwater Grocers.
?
— Northwater Grocers —
An interior storefront for fresh goods is an unfamiliar sight to you, and with the bright lighting and clean displays you can see why the nobles prefer it. A number of uniformed assistants are located around the store, some of them already assisting customers as if assigned to them, and you get the distinct feeling that you're going to have to pay more than you'd like for anything you need here.
One of the assistants approaches you immediately, seemingly appearing from nowhere to greet you. If her disposition weren't so gentle, you would have jumped in surprise.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: Greetings. Can I help you today?
Her voice is faint, but not at all timid.
[GUILDMASTER]: Yes, please. Firstly, I'm looking for a couple jars of honey as well as some spices—black pepper, cloves…
Having already obtained vegetables and flour at the inn, your list is fairly short.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: Of course. Follow me.
With a soothing grace that any noble girl would aspire to, she leads you around the store, confidently picking out choice goods from each relevant shelf. Despite your repeated offers, she insists on carrying them herself until you leave the store. Soon enough, she has two jars of honey and several pouches of spices.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you so much, that was very quick.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: It was no problem—convenience is important, you know. Even for simple things like shopping.
You can't help but smile and agree.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: But is there anything else you'd like me to help with?
[GUILDMASTER]: This is a bit of an odd request, but… the Mayika adventurer guild is recruiting again. We'd like to post notices in as many places as possible. Is there someplace on this property where we'd be allowed to do so?
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: Oh! It's so good to hear that the guild is back! My father always talks about how things have gone downhill since everyone… well, everyone died…
You honestly expected Annessa to be unaffected by just a mention, but her now-solemn face tells you that the emotions of the time have yet to fade completely.
[GUILDMASTER]: Yes… Well. We'll do our best.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: Let me find our supervisor. He'll know if we can help.
He did not, in fact, know if they could help. He went to fetch their groundskeeper, who went to fetch the owner. In the end however, you were able to place two more notices, one inside the store and one out front.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (4/4)
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (5/4)
Moreover, the assistant was delighted to hear that you were the Guildmaster. And by the way she looked at Annessa, she had a new role model.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: Thank you so much for coming!
She leads you back to the entrance.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: It's fifteen coppers for both jars of honey, two dekkers for the black pepper, two-and-two for the cloves, and another two-and-five for the nutmeg. Eight-and-two in all.
Yep, definitely more expensive than you'd like. Well, as long as enough of it goes to the workers themselves, you suppose it's a worthy fee.
You count out the eighty-two coppers, which she places it in a pouch clearly marked as belonging to Northwater Grocers. You note that her uniform is pocketless.
[GUILDMASTER]: We really appreciate your help, thank you.
This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.
NORTHWATER GROCERS ASSISTANT: I really hope you come again! Feel free to ask for me if you do! My name is Arietta!
Annessa smiles at her, clearly taken in by her charms. That 'iron will' can indeed by bent, you notice—and it's only your own 'unyielding restraint' that keeps you from smirking.
ANNESSA: We'd certainly like to. Thank you, Arietta.
Arietta's glowing face might be your favorite part of the day.
You part at the doorway and step back onto the busy road. Your new purchases promptly go into your beloved cart.
? Objectives:
? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (5/4)
? Acquire the following ingredients: (4/4)
?
?
?
?
[GUILDMASTER]: Well, at least this mysterious reliable client isn't buying out all the food.
ANNESSA: I think there'd be a riot if they did.
You're still a ways above the city center, but Annessa says none of the shops further down are of interest to you. You make your way across the street—causing some commotion with your cart, but that's hardly unusual—and approach the door of the Quillfin Fletchers.
?
— Quillfin Fletchers —
You appreciate the store's bright lighting, but what you don't appreciate is the total lack of wares on display.
You walk up to the vendor, who stands behind a low table with a desk to her side…
…and you ask her the question.
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Gree—
[GUILDMASTER]: Why the lack of products?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: —Oh. Uhhh… I mean, our craftsmen are all occupied at the current time. Would you be able to return later?
[GUILDMASTER]: And… why are they all occupied at the current time?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: …Uh.
Not again…
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: We… we're quite busy at the moment, you see… We're all occupied! At the current time! Perhaps you could inquire with Darlon's Hunting down the road?
She clearly isn't going to tell you anything else. You make sure your sigh is audible throughout the store, which is lacking in other customers.
[GUILDMASTER]: And would Darlon's hunting be able to provide what we need?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Uhh… mostly! Not at the same quality or the same materials, but they're good! But they don't have the custom services…
[GUILDMASTER]: Well. As the new Guildmaster of the Mayika adventurer guild, I'd like to request that we be able to post a recruitment notice on your premises. You know, for all the customers you're getting these days.
You know it was a bit mean, but you can't help but enjoy the chagrin on her face. Then she fully takes in what you said, and recovers in genuine excitement.
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Oh! You're the Guildmaster! Well—yeah, I think we can do that much for you! Over here—
She only has to point, and in an instant Annessa is there.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (6/4)
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Oh… she's fast…
[GUILDMASTER]: One of the world's marvels…
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: But oh, let me know if I can do anything else for you!
[GUILDMASTER]:
—
—<1> What exactly do you usually sell? Does your guild make the bows, or would that be the Royal Carpentry's realm of expertise?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: For the bows themselves, they will do the crafting and we do the stringing and selling. In fact, they provide all of our wood, including the shafts for our arrows—it's one of the reasons our products are so superior.
Another being the assistance of the Steelworks and Silversmiths, who provide many of our specialty arrowheads. You might think the remaining tasks are simple—the fitting and the fletching, and so on. And they are, in a sense, but the precision required is extreme. Every arrow must be able to hit its mark. Our other hallmark, which also sets us apart from Darlon's Hunting down in the March, is our custom services.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you.
—<2> You mentioned 'custom services'. What does that include?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: To truly master their craft, any bowman will want to adjust and fine-tune their equipment to suit their needs and their person. Here, we have the tools and expertise to produce and customize archery gear on demand. Custom fletching, arrowheads, bow stringing and maintenance, we can get it done—uh, pending availability—while you wait, even! Yes. Usually.
[GUILDMASTER]: …
—<3> I don't think we need anything right now, but how soon would you estimate that your services will be available again?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Ummmm…
[GUILDMASTER]: …
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Uhhhhhh…
[GUILDMASTER]: …Not soon?
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: Wellll… I don't know!
[GUILDMASTER]: …
—
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you. That will be it for today.
QUILLFIN FLETCHERS VENDOR: I'm really sorry we can't help you further…
[GUILDMASTER]: There's no reason for you to feel bad about it, don't worry. We very much appreciate your willingness to help. We'll ask again when the need arises, thank you.
You leave the store—which, you have to admit, had a rather pleasant feel to it—and continue back up that side of the street.
You're very excited about your next two stops, the first of which is the Marling Jewelers. Every child dreams of having enchanted jewelry, after all…
?
— Marling Jewelers —
Interestingly, one half of the shop is dark and the other half quite bright. At first you wonder if a lamp had broken, but after a moment of staring you realize it's a deliberate effect for showing off their wares. Which they have plenty of, thankfully.
You and Annessa both let out tiny relieved sighs as you approach the Marling Jewelers associate.
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: Welcome! We're excited to have another visitor. Would you like my assistance for anything?
First, you turn to Annessa.
[GUILDMASTER]: Even a couple low-grade accessories would make a huge difference for a starting adventurer. Would it be worth the investment?
To your surprise, she doesn't even have to think before responding.
ANNESSA: Yes. They'll surely be passed down to newer recruits as we get better gear, and as your adventurers grow their anima to be able to handle more enchantments. You'll have to use your own judgment as to which and how many to buy. Make sure you account for a balanced party when doing so.
You glance around the store. There's a lot to look through. Turning back to the Jewelers associate, you ask her to give you a summary of their low-grade products fit for adventurers. She is surprised and impressed to hear that you're the Guildmaster, and doubles her efforts in detailing their accessory stock.
[ You now have the opportunity to buy an assortment of common-grade accessories. You may have plenty of money for now, but don't overdo it! But don't underdo it either, they make a big difference! ]
You pay with the Affirmation of Custody. Not the original one, but an updated one Annessa received when she withdrew the five thousand. According to her, you can now use both—they're good for thirty days, and merchants won't bother questioning your purchase as long as it's reasonably within the amount that you're listed as owning. Because if you pay with more than you actually have, you'll just be in debt to the crown. And nobody wants to be in debt to the crown.
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: Thank you for your purchase. Is there anything else we can do for you?
You decide to inquire about the cost of higher grade accessories and custom enchantments. The prices are about what you'd expect, but—
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: As far as custom orders and high-grade accessories go, please note that our services may be slower than usual due to high demand.
…Wait. Really?
You can just barely hear something like a stifled squawk coming from Annessa's direction.
[GUILDMASTER]: …Why would that be?
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: Our crafters and enchanters are currently occupied with a—project. It is a considerable task and may take us some time. However, our lower tier guild members are expected to be able to replenish our stock accessories some time next month.
[GUILDMASTER]: …And this 'project' is…
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: As a rule, we don't discuss the orders of other clients unless you have sufficient authorization. You understand.
[GUILDMASTER]: I do. But I have to ask… Why are all the crafting guilds in the Marlock busy with some project?
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: …All of them?
Her previously unflappable decorum is replaced by remarkable surprise.
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: I knew the Silversmiths were behind schedule, but…
[GUILDMASTER]: Apparently it's been like this for almost a month. Is there no communication between the guilds?
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: There's a monthly meeting for the guild officials and shopkeepers on the Marlock, but… I haven't heard anything…
[GUILDMASTER]: …Well. It certainly seems strange, even suspicious…
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: It's unprecedented, that's for sure… I'm very sorry I can't be of more assistance.
[GUILDMASTER]: But you can! We're hoping to recruit as much as possible in the upcoming days, and we'd like to put up a notice wherever possible, redundantly even. Is there somewhere suitable in your storefront?
MARLING JEWELERS ASSOCIATE: There is, it'll be right over—
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (7/4)
You both stare in awe at Annessa's raw speed, her supersonic grace, her precise and dignified swings.
You look back at the associate.
[GUILDMASTER]: Well. That will be all for today, I think! Thanks again.
You part with appreciative smiles and you leave the shop, depositing your purchase of accessories into the cart.
CART ATTENDANT: …You some kind of adventurer or something?
You explain your current situation, and the cart attendant is impressed when he learns of your identity.
CART ATTENDANT: You know, I've always wanted to be an adventurer… Though Mammy would kill me for it, faster than any monster for sure.
[GUILDMASTER]: It's dangerous work, it's very true. Especially if done without proper preparation.
ANNESSA: I'd like to note that, before the Crusade, our guild had the lowest casualty rate of any in the Heartlands. Our trainers are excellent and our leadership will make sure you are more than prepared for whatever quests you take on.
She doesn't even glance at you. Somehow you know that she's speaking with confidence, and not trying to throw you hints. You appreciate that.
CART ATTENDANT: Well… maybe I'll think about it, after all. It'd be… nice to do some good in the world, you know?
[GUILDMASTER]: You're doing good in the world right now, believe me!
Annessa grows a twisted smile.
ANNESSA: Please excuse his excitement about cart services, he's new to the city.
CART ATTENDANT: Hahaha. But thank you, Guildmaster!
The next door is the Tellingsworth Guild. Alchemy stores are always the most colorful inside and out, and each one has its own unique brews to inspect. You can only imagine what awaits you in the most distinguished alchemy guild in the Heartlands.
?
— Tellingsworth Guild —
You enter the famous alchemy guild's storefront, and your excitement is immediately replaced by dismay. There is NOTHING on the shelves.
You approach the Tellingsworth Guild representative, trying your best to hide your frustration.
[GUILDMASTER]: Excuse me, sir…
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Greetings.
The man is perched comfortably on a stool behind his ornate desk, puffing on something resembling a pipe. His utter nonchalance only serves to magnify your frustration.
[GUILDMASTER]: Sir. There's nothing on your shelves.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Unfortunately so.
[GUILDMASTER]: Sir, there is NOTHING on your shelves. Why is that?
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Business.
He puffs.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: We have a large order to fulfill and are unable to take new requests at this time.
REALLY?
You look at Annessa and are surprised by the volume of concern that has fallen over her face.
ANNESSA: Guildmaster, this is… it's dire. Potions are a necessity, especially for quests that take place outside the city. Our stock is too low—
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Ah, I'm familiar with you, Lady Annessa, but did the adventurer guild finally get a new Guildmaster?
ANNESSA: I'm no lady, but yes—this is our new Guildmaster.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Greetings again, and welcome to the city.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you. But it's imperative that we be able to supply our new adventurers with enough potions to keep them safe. Do you have any backup stock, or… Do you know where else we could look…?
He doesn't shrug, but the look in his eyes basically means the same.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Try Gremmon's or Hale's. If you need higher grades, you'll have to reach out to the guild in Jarana. I can assist with that.
You and Annessa look at each other with worrying eyes. The Tellingsworth representative enjoys another puff.
[GUILDMASTER]: Let's see what we can get our hands on. Then we'll come back and ask about what we might be able to get from Jarana.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Very good. Let me know if there's anything else we can help you with.
[GUILDMASTER]: One thing, actually—we'd like to post a recruitment notice here, if you're willing.
The representative gestures with his pipe at a spot on the wall across from you, and then returns his ever-unconcerned gaze to yours even as Annessa demonstrates her poster-posting expertise.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (8/4)
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: My apologies once again, but our work truly is important.
[GUILDMASTER]: And you won't tell us what that work is, will you?
Now the representative gives a shrug—the tiniest, laziest shrug you've ever seen performed by mortal man, but it's the most you'll get out of him today.
TELLINGSWORTH GUILD REPRESENTATIVE: Client confidentiality.
You don't even bother sighing.
Until you're outside the store that is, at which point you're joined in chorus by Annessa.
[GUILDMASTER]: So Gremmon's we'll be reaching soon enough…
ANNESSA: It's next, yes. But Hale's Apothecary is in the March. After we finish that route tomorrow, we can come back here. If all goes well, we can get an order sent out then.
[GUILDMASTER]: And that'll give me time to look over our current stock, see what we're working with…
ANNESSA: Don't worry about that, I'll do a full inventory and have it ready for you by morning. I also have numbers on estimated usage.
[GUILDMASTER]: You are supremely helpful.
ANNESSA: Thank you, Guildmaster—but remember, this is literally and specifically my job.
[GUILDMASTER]: Sublimely helpful, even.
She gives you that suspicious squint-eyed glare that is her equivalent of rolling her eyes.
Gremmon's General Supplies is only a dozen or so meters up the road.
?
— Gremmon's General Supplies —
The shopkeeper, Mister Gremmon himself, wears a decidedly disgruntled expression. But, as Annessa made sure to tell you before you entered, he's popular for being very friendly and outgoing despite his outward appearance. Apparently he very much likes his job, especially the part that involves talking to customers. He just never looks like it.
MISTER GREMMON: Greetings, Miss Annessa and newcomer!
You've barely made it through the door when he calls out to you. He finishes up with his current customer by the time you draw near, and he waves at you cheerfully. But his grumpy mien remains unperturbed.
MISTER GREMMON: What do you two need from us today?
You survey the products around you, noting that you could obtain both flour and honey here in the future. But more importantly, a display of bright-colored potions covers half the wall behind him.
[GUILDMASTER]: Greetings, Mister Gremmon. I'm the new Guildmaster of the Mayika Adventurer Guild, and frankly… we're desperate for some health potions. Mana potions to a lesser extent.
MISTER GREMMON: You're not alone, and I've never been so grateful to have suppliers outside the city. So help yourself for today—but mind that all I've got is common grade.
[ You now have the opportunity to browse his inventory, consisting of the lowest tier of potions available, including some status remedies. It's up to you how many to buy, but Annessa recommends at least two dozen to start with. ]
[GUILDMASTER]: Thank you so much, Mister Gremmon. That's a huge relief for us.
MISTER GREMMON: Of course! It was a huge relief for me to hear that the guild is back in action! I'm glad to be able to help.
[GUILDMASTER]: Could I ask for one more thing? We'd love to be able to post a recruitment notice around your store…
MISTER GREMMON: Ah! A good idea! Right down here, on the counter itself! Just put it right over my little advertisement, that one's old.
* thunk! thunk! thunk! *
? ? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (9/4)
MISTER GREMMON: Miss Annessa, you're a madwoman with that hammer!
ANNESSA: My talents aren't limited to buying tea, you know.
MISTER GREMMON: Speaking of, it's been so long since I've served up your favorites! What's kept you?
ANNESSA: Our funds have been… limited.
Mister Gremmon's expression changes for the first time, overcome with genuine worry.
MISTER GREMMON: Ohh… You guys doing alright nowadays…?
ANNESSA: We are, but by no virtue of our own.
MISTER GREMMON: A blessing from the Nine, then!
With a sigh of relief, he returns to his normal scrunchy grumpface.
[GUILDMASTER]: We might just make it, Mister Gremmon. Annessa—would you please direct me on how best to refill the guild's stock of tea? And feel free to make a personal purchase as well, as a form of backpay.
A combination of gratitude and excitement flows over her entire body, causing her mouth to involuntarily form a smile. Without any hesitation she picks out a selection of her favorites, as well as one of both Varant's and Messen's, and additionally a new blend recommended by Mister Gremmon.
It's no small amount of money for the majority of people in the world. But you have no doubts in the virtues of your decision. Or the virtues of tea. After all, Annessa didn't object in the slightest even after seeing the price. You personally believe that tea isn't just a comfort, but an asset when it comes to doing intensive work—and in keeping your employees happy. You can only appreciate the blessing that allows you to afford it.
[GUILDMASTER]: Thanks again. We'll be sure to visit in the future—you keep your store well!
MISTER GREMMON: Ahaha, that's just my assistants! I've never known anyone so good at cleaning and sorting! Hopefully you'll meet 'em yourself one day, it'd please me if you thanked 'em in person!
[GUILDMASTER]: I definitely will! Until then!
You and Annessa leave the shop and deposit your little crates of potions in the cart, making sure they're secured. Despite the lack of wares in the shops you've visited, the cart is over half full, and you can't help but wonder if you'll have need of wagon services at some point in the guild's future…
You're both quiet as you mull over these mysterious buyers—or buyer? And how it could become quite a problem for the guild as it begins to grow again. You're determined to start working on contingencies sooner rather than later—even if you have to visit the markets in Tavar yourself. But for now, between Gremmon's and the cyan-haired cheerful trader, you should be able to welcome your first wave of recruits… If there will ever be any.
The last notable shop on your side is Tempernik's Imported Herbs and Spices, which surely would have been another option for several of your purchasing objectives, honey included. But the both of you are feeling restless from the day's events, and seeing as you already have the spices you need, you head straight back up to the High Market and review your progress.
? Objectives:
? Put up at least four more recruitment notices. (9/4)
? Acquire the following ingredients: (4/4)
?
?
?
?
[ Leaving the High Market on the east road will end the exploration phase and send you back to the guild. ]
It's been a full day and you're eager to get back to the guild, and you both set your feet on the road toward the east. You're ashamed to admit that today's walking has taken its toll on you. You insist that you be the one to carry the cart back, though you suspect that Annessa might be even more fit than you are… Something you mean to address with more training. Her shoulders are straight and her strides dignified as usual as you walk back across the city, taking a direct route that cuts through a moderately fortunate residential district before emerging onto Gate Road. In time you find yourself back home—back at the guild—storing your purchases while waiting for Tami's return.
?
The front door of the guildhouse opens, and you can see the silhouette of Tami and her hooded cloak in the doorway. Behind her, you catch a glimpse of a well-loaded cart before the door claps shut again.
She seems as calm as ever as she steps into the hall, but then the lamplight falls on her and you notice something off about her demeanor—her shoulders are stiff, her face even more frozen than usual, and her eyes—wait, is she feeling guilty?
Annessa steps up beside you, and immediately reads her good friend's body language.
ANNESSA: Tami…
Tami stands impossibly still, her hood unlowered, her eyes looking at nobody in particular.
ANNESSA: …Tami. What did you buy?
TAMI: …
ANNESSA: I know how much you took with you. How much do you have left?
TAMI: …
ANNESSA: Tamiiiiiiii…
TAMI: It…
Varant and Messen have found their way into the hall, and the four of you now form a semicircle around your Ranger master like a council of judgment. You think she might actually start to tremble under the pressure.
TAMI: It was on sale…
ANNESSA: …Okay. But what was it?
TAMI: It was the only one left! I had no choice!!
ANNESSA: …
TAMI: Pl—please believe me…
ANNESSA: Tami. What was it?
TAMI: ……A W—Wes…
ANNESSA: —You didn't…
TAMI: —A Westwoods garnost rump cap…
ANNESSA: …
[GUILDMASTER]: …
MESSEN: …
VARANT: …
TAMI: With a Pirpurran Prime sauce base included…
ANNESSA: …
[GUILDMASTER]: …
MESSEN: …
VARANT: …
TAMI: And… and a topping of Esthalian skylimmen bulbs… Imported…
ANNESSA: …
[GUILDMASTER]: …
MESSEN: …
VARANT: …
TAMI: …
The silence is broken by the commanding clack of a light-plated boot on old hardwood. In three slow, elegant steps, Messen stands over her, his face unreadable. His ever-imperious presence dominates the room. He raises his gloved hand above her head—and pats her.
MESSEN: You did well, Tami. You did well.
* pat.?pat.?pat. *
?
Varant gives a low chuckle as Annessa mutters something to him when she passes the apricot mash, and Ethi is smiling as she chats with Zoel, who she hasn't seen in weeks. On your left, Messen is practicing utmost restraint as he goes about the process of emptying his plate with all the decorum expected of his lineage. For your part, you've given up on the idea of cleanliness and are relying heavily on your napkin to protect your favorite set of clothes. You can't help but grin at Tami's unique expressiveness—her face is still as ever, but her eyes reflect unseen moons whenever she sets them on some new dish.
For you and especially Messen, the grilled skylimmen bulbs are a taste of the luxuries of home. For your part, you've never had the opportunity—or the coins—to try them over roast garnost, and you have to agree with Messen's educated appraisal: it is most excellent.
But as far as the roast goes, it's the Westwoods spices that dominates its flavor—and the essence of the entire meal… and the air of the entire guild property for the last two hours as Tami dutifully prepared it. Westwoods goods are rare—highly limited in availability, as they can't be obtained in human lands, and you suspect that Tami had managed to seize upon an opportunity you might never see again.
As for the Pirpurran Prime sauce… well, Pirpurra doesn't exist anymore. As with the other Southern Suzerainties, it was overrun by troglins before your father was born. Some of their famous exports are still produced in a remote corner of Manara, where the climate is similar enough for their unique flora to survive, though not necessarily thrive.
You and your guild staff remain at the table long after your stomachs have been over-filled, and at some point during the conversation your last ounce of guilt over spending so much on this one meal vanishes entirely. And, you realize, you're actually glad to be here… in this struggling guild, with these very people.
You know you had nothing to do with this opportunity. But you also know it's your responsibility to make the most of it, and guide the guild back to prosperity—and to a place where it can truly make a difference in the world again. You take a moment to appreciate the cheerful faces around you, and look with optimism on the future ahead.
―――――――――― DEFINITIONS:
? garnost?/?gɑ?r.n?st/?"GAR-nosst"
A large herbivore valued for its meat—and only its meat, which is considered top tier in flavor and nourishment. But as they require a lot of food and space to grow properly and have little other use, garnost meat is generally only available to nobles and wealthy merchants due to its cost.
? Pirpurra?/p?r?pu?.r?/?"peer-POOH-ruh"
A small country, more of a city-state, located on the easternmost edge of the Nauru Shoal, far far south of the Heartlands. It was one of the first countries to be claimed by the rampaging troglins when they appeared around 60 years ago.
? Pirpurran Prime fruit
An especially desirable variety of Pirpurran rindfruit. Due to the difficulty of growing them outside the unique Pirpurran climate, they continue to increase in price with each passing year.
? Esthalia?/?s?θɑ?.li?/?"ess-THAH-lee-uh" (the 'th' is unvoiced)
A small but respectable country, one of the northernmost of the Central Monarchies, that was absorbed by the Arkavian Empire some centuries ago. Notable for being the source of one of the four Monstrums.
? skylimmen?/?ska?.l?.m?n/?"SKY-limm-enn"
A rare plant that grows only in difficult northern climates, famous for its beautiful white fronds that are said to luminesce in the moonlight. Its bulbs are considered a delicacy and are highly nutritious. 'True' skylimmen bulbs, imported from the very north of Arkavis, are notoriously difficult to get.
―――――――――― CHANGELOG:
2025-02-06 ? Small text change, formatting changes.
2025-02-23 ? Formatting changes.
2025-03-06 ? Formatting changes (colors) and portrait updates.