The Ballad of Waverly Hardwick, Stanza 3

Waverly steps out of the tavern and looks around to the town guards posted on the street.

Do the guards look at Waverly?
(1) No, and they just begin to apprehend a passerby as Waverly comes out.

Waverly does not stay to see what the guards are arresting the man for. He decides to find the Erelong Manor to investigate Norman's possible whereabouts before meeting Theodoric by the lighthouse at sundown. Waverly heads south on Old King's Road toward the docks.

What kinds of buildings does he pass on his way to the manor? (roll on Maze Rats Buildings Tables)
Clockmaker.
Bakery.
Market Place.

Waverly comes into the marketplace.

Is everything as expected? (roll d6 for yes or no)
(3) No. (roll d10 on TWENE table)
10. Wild Negative

What does Waverly encounter that's unexpected in the marketplace? (roll on City, Town, & Village Encounter Table)
(67) 6d10 members of three rival parties (barbarian clans, street gangs, religious orders, mercenary companies) have broken into a massive fisticuff, turning the street to chaos. No-one has drawn steel yet, but things are escalating quickly.

What are the names of these three factions? (watchout4snakes)
blue person, material weapon, above doom

As Waverly arrives in the heart of the marketplace, he sees three groups of men in heated conversation. Waverly hears something about the “Silver Prince,” “Steel Blades,” and “Thunder Clouds."

Is Waverly able to conclude that these are names of various factions within the city?
(4) Yes, but things turn violent before he can get a sense of who they are or what they're fighting about.

Waverly glances around. Are there any town guards in the marketplace?
(3) No, but onlooking citizens have run off calling for the guards.

Is there enough room on the street to continue by without getting caught up in the fight?
(3) No, but there is a side alley that looks like it might take Waverly to River Road and around the disruption.

Waverly decides not to wait for the guards and instead ducks down the alley.

Does it take him to River Road?
(1) No, and he soon finds a group of men at the end of the alley. They are armed and do not look friendly.

Waverly sees the men and stops in his tracks. He looks around.

Are any of the men behind him blocking his escape?
(3) No, but there are men to either side of him within striking distance if Waverly tries to make a run for it.

How many men are there? (roll 1d8)
6

Who is the leader of the group? (Kassoon and Knave Character Generators)
Gunter Reid
Description: Wears torn clothes, and has drawling speech. Has a sinewy physique, a sunken face, rosy skin and bald head.
Personality: A rambunctious noisy drunk he knows how to make people feel guilty. Energy wise he seems alert and responsive.
History: He was raised happily, as a normal child born to his father and mother. His father taught him the rudiments of the Shipwright arts, while his mother instructed him in etiquette, music and courtly manner. Over the years he perfected his riding and shooting skills. As of late he has gathered a gang of other desperate men to ambush any poor soul that wanders into their den within the twisted alleys of Ayn Harbor.
Motivation: Wants to raise his children well. And he will attempt to ambush and attack anyone he thinks he can take on with his gang if he thinks they coins in their purse.

Waverly decides it unwise to try to turn his back to the men. He attempts a smile and nods to the man he assumes is in charge.

“Hello. I think I am lost.”

NPC Reaction (roll 2d6)
(5) Unfriendly

Gunter replies.

“Are you now? Where were you trying to get? Nasty part of town you ended up in. You from around here?”

“I’m trying to get to Old King's Road. A fight broke out back in the marketplace. I didn't want to get involved. I thought maybe I could get around it through this way. I suppose I was mistaken. I’ll be on my way.”

Do the men respond in a threatening way?
(6) Yes, and they draw their swords and surround Waverly.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 1 

“Heh. You’re not going anywhere without paying us tribute first. Empty out your pockets and we’ll let you go on your way.”

Waverly holds up his hands and slowly brings out his coin purse and throws it to the man’s feet.

“There. That’s everything I have. Now please let me pass.”

Do the men put away their swords now? (unlikely)
(5, 3) No, but the other men crowd around Gunter to look into the coin purse as they go through it. They seem not to be paying as much attention to Waverly and the path behind him is clear.

Waverly decides to make a run for it. Do the men follow him? (likely)
(3) No, but they call out to him and threaten him.

“Keep running, ya bastard and don’t come back this way! You insult us with a measly seven copper  as tribute? If I ever see you in my streets again, I'll kill ya!”

Waverly comes back out into the marketplace.

Have the guards arrived to deal with the disturbance by this time? (likely)
(1, 4) Yes, but the riot has escalated and it looks as though some of the men have been gravely injured by weapons. They lay in the street motionless. Pools of blood flow out from under their bodies. Waverly thinks they may be dead.

Are there any of the guards nearby not currently apprehending those involved in the fight?
(6) Yes, and a pair of them come up to Waverly now. They have their hands on their sword hilts.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 2

“Stop right there, young man! What is your business here?”

“Praise the Lady you’ve arrived. I was just passing through the marketplace when this fight broke out. I thought I’d try to go around it through this alley, but I ran into some men who took away my money at sword point. Please, I’m a stranger to this town I need that money back. Can you do anything to help me?"

Do the guards help Waverly get his money back?
(3) No, but they aren’t unfriendly.

“Hold up, there, hold up, son. We’ve had a busy day. We will deal with your problems when we have the manpower to do so. If you haven’t noticed, we’ve got our hands full with these damnable rebels. This is the third disturbance this week. We’re running out of space in the stockade for this scum.”

The other guard looks Waverly over.

“You look alright. Are you hurt at all?”

“No. I threw them my purse and ran. I was no match to take them all on.”

“Smart. Your life is worth more than coin. How much did you lose?”

“It was only seven copper. But still. It was all I had and I’m a stranger here. I need that money to get home.”

Do the guards do or say anything to assure Waverly they’ll help? (likely)
(4) Yes, but they can’t do anything right now.

The guards let go of their sword hilts and look back to the rest of the town guard currently ushering the rioters away to a cart. The first guard looks to Waverly.

“Glad you’re alright, son. As we said, we have are hands full. You’re obviously not from around these parts. It’s best to stay on the main streets here. Getting mugged is a common occurrence down the darker paths. Stay away from there, would you?”

The second guard chimes in.

“I don’t have any coins on me, kid. Wish I did or I’d give them your way. I’m sure that lute you’re carrying would be more than enough to get back what you lost and then some. You’re lucky they didn’t take it.”

“Luckier than you know. I probably would’ve been stupid enough to fight them had they tried.”

“Maybe you can find work in the taverns here? We don’t have many minstrels come to this part of the world.”

“Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind. Say, maybe you guys could answer a few questions about something else?”

Will they stay to answer more questions?
(4) Yes, but only a few.

The first guard responds.

“Sure, son, make it quick. We’ve gotta transport this lot to the stocks and get back on patrol.”

“I met a guy up near the town gate at an inn. The Prince and Lion? His name is Theodoric Barney. He asked if I'd heard of him. I haven’t. Have you? Can you tell me anything about him?”

Do the guards claim to know Theodoric Barney? (likely)
(3) No, but they give each other a knowing look before answering carefully.

The second guard replies.

“Sorry kid... We don’t spend time at the Prince and Lion. Too far from our patrol routes. I know some guys that go there though. They might be able to tell you more, but couldn’t be sure."

“Ok. I am supposed to meet him, but not sure I can trust him. He wants to meet me somewhere at sundown. He didn’t want others listening in on our conversation... Sounds kind of fishy, right? Do you guys patrol around the lighthouse?”

Do the guards ever patrol around the lighthouse?
(3) No, but there’s no need to. A pair of town guards mans the lighthouse at night.

Second guard replies.

“Nah, no need, kid. We take turns manning the lighthouse at night. Probably the best gig we town guards can hope to be assigned. It’s the only modicum of peace we seem to get around here these days. You’d be safe meeting those robbers down there during the darkest hour of night. No criminal would be stupid enough to do anything outside of the lighthouse.”

The first guard cuts in.

“Ok, ok. We’ve gotta get moving. Anything else we can help you with?”

“I'm wondering if you know of the Erelongs? I have business with them and heard that they live in a manor further south from here."

Do the guards have any more information regarding the whereabouts of the Erelongs or their scheme with the animals?
(5) Yes.

What do they have to say? (watchout4snakes)
abolition passage (I don't know what that means, I'll generate another result)
challenging convict
Aha! Putting all four of those words together gives me an idea. The Erelongs were accused of being in league with the rebel factions (Steel Blades and Thundering Cloud) and accused of stealing powerful magical artifacts from the private collection of the city's current ruler (the Silver Prince). None of the artifacts they were accused of stealing have ever turned up and the Silver Inquisitors are having trouble finding any substantial connection between the Erelongs and the stolen artifacts. Unknown to the Silver Prince, the stolen artifacts were being smuggled out of the city in the stomachs of livestock.

Will the guards tell any of these details to Waverly? (unlikely)
(1, 1) No, and they tell Waverly to stay away from their manor and to not ask any of the other towns guards about them.

"Fitzhugh and Elsbeth Erelong were placed under arrest last month for crimes against His Majesty, the Silver Prince of Ayn Harbor. I cannot comment on the charges as the investigation into their crimes is ongoing. You ought to not bring their names up or you may find yourself a person of interest to the Silver Prince. And you do not want to become a person of interest to His Majesty, the Silver Prince of Ayn Harbor. We need to go now. Sorry we couldn’t be of more help. Stay on the main streets. And stay out of these dissenters’ way if you want to stay out of trouble.”

Plots

• Make up with friends by earning back the money we were defrauded of
• Find mentor to help find paying adventuring jobs
• Get payback on the defrauder if ever met again
• Meet Theodoric Barney at the lighthouse at sundown
  

 Entities

• Friends
• Brothers
• Norman Graeme (mentor)
• Defrauder
• William Bradford (owner of the Copper Mackerel in Ayn Harbor, in league with the Thundering Cloud)
• Fitzhugh and Elsbeth Erelong (residents of Ayn Harbor, met with Norman a month ago, in league with the Steel Blades)
• Agatha Holt (owner of the Prince and Lion Inn in Ayn Harbor)
• Theodoric Barney (stranger, warns against speaking Norman's name in Ayn Harbor)
• Gunter Reid (a mugger in Ayn Harbor, threatened to kill Waverly if their paths ever cross again)
• The Silver Prince (ruler of Ayn Harbor, his right to power is challenged by the Steel Blades and Thundering Cloud rebel factions)

The Ballad of Waverly Hardwick, Stanza 2

Waverly walks down the street in the dead of night.

Are there any other people walking around the street?
(1) No, and there are not even guards patrolling this area of town.

Is it well lit?
(3) No, but Waverly sees the River Road running alongside the river is illuminated with lanterns. He decides to cut down an alley to that road hoping to find town guards patrolling the area.

Does he encounter anyone in the alley?
(3) No, but he is convinced he sees shadows lurking in the darkness around him and quickens his pace. He arrives on River Road.

Are there people on this street?
(5) Yes.

Are there any town guards patrolling the area? (likely)
(4, 5) Yes.

Waverly sighs with relief and relaxes a bit.

What kinds of buildings does he pass on his way toward the Prince and Lion Inn? (roll on Maze Rats Buildings Tables)
Book binder.
Stables.
Weaver.

Does Waverly encounter anything of note on the way to the inn? (roll d6 for yes or no)
(3) No. He walks through the town without incident. He is happy that he switched to what seemed to be the main thoroughfare of Ayn Harbor.

Waverly arrives to the Prince and Lion.

What is the inn like? (donjon and Kassoon Random Inn Generator
Location: In a residential quarter near the North Gate known for its rude residents who hate outsiders. The street outside is covered in fallen leaves and is watched by a squad of the town guard.
Description: The tavern is a timber framed single story building, with a brown shingled roof and vines covering the walls and roof. It contains a taxidermied lion near the entrance wearing a tarnished brass crown.

"Excuse me? I just arrived to town. Do you have anywhere to sleep for the night?"

Who is the innkeeper? (Kassoon Random NPC Generator and Knave random tables)
Agatha Holt
Description: Wears decorated clothes, and has whispery speech. Has a slender physique, a blunt face, reeking skin and luxurious hair. Is humble, but nervous. Has been discredited in the past. Favors neutrality.
Personality: Friendly and accommodating she would invite many more into her home than her spouse would be comfortable with if they did not express concern about it. She takes great pride in her work and is very well organized. Her planner is full of calendar events.
History: She was raised happily, as a normal child born to her father and mother. Her father taught her the rudiments of the Barkeep arts, while her mother instructed her in etiquette, music and courtly manner. From there she went from mercenary job to mercenary job. She struck the Barkeep job and began her own company from there.
Motivation: To share knowledge with the world. And she wants to meet her childhood hero.

Does Agatha have anyplace to sleep?
(5) Yes.

"Aye, lad. We've got plenty 'o rooms upstairs. One copper a night. Three coppers gets ya a bed an' breakfast in the mornin.'"

"I'll take you up on the breakfast."

Waverly counts out three copper pieces and lays them on the counter.

"Right ye are, lad. 'Ere's yer key. We'll be havin' salted hare an' roasted artichoke in the mornin'. House specialty. Hope ye like it. Sleep well."

Waverly takes the key and nods to the woman. And goes to his room.

Is everything as expected? (roll d6 to answer yes or no)
(5) Yes. It's a small room. A small straw stuffed mattress and pillow lie on the floor. There is nothing else of interest. He does not care. He takes off his backpack and locks the door behind him. In the darkness, he collapses onto the sack of hay and drifts to sleep.

Does Waverly sleep through the night? (likely)
(6) Yes, and the smell of food wafts out from the kitchen into his room. It smells delicious and is sure to satisfy his hunger.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 3 (roll on Intervention Table)
(4) Advance Plot (roll d6 ÷ 2 to determine which plot is advanced on Plots List)
(5÷2=2.5 rounded down=2) Find mentor to help find paying adventurer jobs

Is Norman at the Prince and Lion?
(1) No, and he's never set foot in there before.

Is there someone in the inn that will help Waverly find Norman?
(5) Yes.

Is it a patron?
(4) Yes, but there are a number of people eating and drinking this morning. Waverly will have to talk to them and find someone that knows where Norman may be.

Waverly comes out of his room and finds a number of others at tables eating and drinking. Waverly looks around the room hoping to spot Norman, but he is not among the crowd. He walks to the bar to find Agatha wiping down the counter with a rag.

“Mornin.' Hope ya slept well?"

"I did. Thank you. Is breakfast ready? It smells delicious."

"It's right here lad."

Agatha sets down a wooden plate with a savory mix of meat and green veggies. She takes a tankard off the shelf behind the counter and turns to Waverly.

"What’ll’ya have to drink, lad?”

“A cider, if you would, thank you.”

Waverly takes the drink and brings it to his lips and lets the flavors of the drink fill his mouth as he surveys the room.

Does this drink taste any good?
(5) Yes.

Does everything appear to be as expected?
(5) Yes

Waverly takes a bite of his food.

Is it as good as it smells?
(5) Yes.

Waverly eats the food and finishes his drink before addressing Agatha.

“A fine meal and drink, madam. Thank you.”

“Can I top ya off, then?”

“No, no. Not now. I have come looking for an old friend of mine. I heard he had arrived to Ayn Harbor sometime ago. Perhaps you have heard of him? Norman Graeme. Older man, but still an able bodied warrior. Gray curly hair and beard. Broken nose. Ever hear or see him before?”

 
Does Agatha know where to find Norman?
(1) No, and she claims to have never heard of him either.

“Sorry, lad. Can’t help ya. I'm pretty good at remembering names 'n faces. I never heard that name or seen anyone of that description in the Prince 'n Lion before.”

“Thank you for your time. And your hospitality.”

 
Waverly puts a copper piece on the counter for the drink and turns to look at the other patrons.

Are there any younger patrons here that might be training with a mentor?
(1) No, and in fact all of the patrons appear to be middle aged or older.

Waverly approaches the first lone patron he sees (Kassoon Random NPC Generator):
Theodoric Barney
Description: He wears a black vest and prefers brown and grey shirts. His boots appear to have been at one point steel toed but are quite worn down, and carries rapiers. His blonde hair is thinning but still full. His ears are large.
Personality: He is mildly Human supremacist, though he does not identify as such. He is stubborn though. He always likes to keep a trick up his sleeve. He likes to fight dirty and will kick and punch below the belt if he feels he even has a chance of losing.
History: Theodoric was born in the North. At a young age he loved to build and create. In his youth he was a Barrister, and wanted to be a champion fighter when he grew up. He was working during a period of war, and as one of the natives he lived in fear of joining the others in being slaughtered. He saw the brutality and swore off his fighting aspirations, taking his younger sister on his back after seeing his parents die, and fled the country. He would ruin relationships and cause injury. He was reprimanded several times before being given his current form and forced to learn humility.
Motivation: He feels kind of lost in life.

Waverly stands at the table and gives a polite bow before greeting the man.

"Good morning, sir. Could I have a moment of your time?"

NPC Reaction (roll 2d6)
(10) Talkative.

 Theodoric is cradling a pint of ale in his hands and his heart is gladdened.

“Hey there, kid. Pull up a chair! I'd love to have some company. Let me get you another drink. Agatha! A drink for the young minstrel!”

Waverly smiles and accepts the seat before responding.

“Thank you. It is very kind of you. I am new to Ayn Harbor and it’s nice to find such friendly folk as Agatha and… You are?”

“Theodoric Barney. You may have heard of me?”

“Uhh… No. Sorry. I just arrived to Ayn Harbor last night.”
 

“Right! Right! You did say you were new here. What brings you to the shit hole that is Ayn Harbor? Setting sail to newer and greater lands? I envy the opportunities your youth offers.”

“I'm looking for a friend. Norman Graeme. He's the only reason I'm in town. I was told he came to Ayn Harbor a little while back. Heard of him before?”

Theodoric takes a swig of his ale as Agatha brings out another cider for Waverly.

Has Theordoric heard of Norman Graeme?
(4) Yes, but it’s not wise to say his name in this part of town.

“Keep your voice down, kid. That’s not a name you should be uttering in this part of town.”

Theodoric looks around at the other patrons. Waverly follows suit.

Does it appear any patrons are looking Waverly's way after speaking Norman’s name?
(4) Yes, but they immediately turn away when they see Waverly look at them.

“Why? What’s wrong?”

“This might not be the best place to speak of your friend, kid. Yes, I know him. But you may be his only friend in these parts.”

“What do you mean?”

“Shouldn't be talking about this here, kid. It’d be better if you leave. Now. Get out of here. Get out of town. Go back home and forget about your friend if you value your life.”

“I can’t abandon him. I came here for his help. But... It sounds like he may need my help. He's in trouble?”

“That’s putting it mildly. Again. This is not the place to talk. It doesn’t look like I can convince you to leave town. Fine. I get it. He’s your friend. You’re certainly a loyal friend to have. What did you say your name was?”

“Waverly. Waverly Hardwick.”

Does Theodoric appear to recognize the family name at all?
(3) No, but it’s not that uncommon a name that it would stand out as being special.

“A pleasure to meet you, Hardwick. I think it is best if we talk elsewhere. The lighthouse up on the hill just outside of town. I’ll meet you there at sundown tonight. I've got some things to do before then. Now you’d better...”

Theodoric glances at the other patrons. Waverly’s eyes again follow suite.

Do the other patrons still appear to be listening in on their conversation?
(3) No, but they don't appear to be acting in a natural way. They could have been attempting to eavesdrop during this whole conversation.

Theodoric speaks in a louder voice.

“...you’d better play us as song. You’re a minstrel. Yes? I bought you your drink. I want to hear ancient tales of old! Of heroes conquering darkness! Of good triumphing over evil! Sing!”

Waverly takes the hint and takes his lute and sings one of the more popular ballads known in his land. 

Does this diversion cause any reaction in the other patrons?
(2) No. They don’t seem to notice or care for the song. They still seem rather tense and not at ease.

Waverly finishes his song. Agatha throws the hand towel she was wiping the counter down with over her shoulder to clap.

“Thank ya, lad, a fine song! Wish I could 'fford entertainment, but as ya 'ave noticed, your talents aren’t usually 'ppreciated 'nough in this town to warrant the cost.”

Waverly smiles and bows his head to the woman.

“Thank you, madam. I am happy to play again anytime I am here. On me, of course. Your prices have been more than fair.”

“No, lad. I couldn't accept yer offer."

Agatha takes a copper coin from a purse kept under the counter. She flips it to Waverly.

“Yer drinks are on me anytime you choose to play for us 'ere. Folks 'round these parts aren’t cultured enough to 'ppreciate the arts. Maybe that'd change given 'nough time and 'sposure. Please come back again?”

“I am not sure how long I plan on staying in town, but before I leave, I promise to return and take you up on your generous offer. I must be going soon. Before I head out, maybe you could help me? I was at the Copper Mackerel last night. The owner is the one that told me to visit you. He claimed to have seen the friend I'm looking for. He said he was with a noble couple that has been bringing livestock through town down to the stockyard. Do you know who he's talking about?”

Will Agatha claim to know the Erelongs?
(5) Yes.

"Ah, the Erelongs. Yah, I know 'em. Don't know a soul in this town who wouldn't. They were involved in some scheme exporting animals. I don't know much 'bout it though. Don't know if anyone did really."

"I'd like to speak with them. They may be able to help me find my friend. Do you know where they live?"

Does Agatha know where the Erelongs live?
(4) Yes, but she doesn't think they live there anymore.

Where was their house located? (watchout4snakes)
oldest interior

"They lived in the big manor on Old King Road. Right 'n the center of town. But I ain't seen them for the past several weeks. Not sure if they're still in town to be honest."

Waverly bows to Agatha and nods to Theodoric as he leaves the inn. He glances out of the corner of his eye.

Do any of the other patrons get up as Waverly heads for the exit?
(5) Yes. It’s not subtle at all.

Does more than one patron gets up?
(1) No, and it’s only Theodoric who is getting up. He is going up to Agatha and orders another drink.

Waverly sighs with relief as he leaves the tavern. He is unsure what any of that was about, but he knows before he concerns himself with earning back the money he lost to the defrauder, he is going to have to figure out what sort of trouble Norman is in and try his best to help him.

Plots

• Make up with friends by earning back the money we were defrauded of
• Find mentor to help find paying adventuring jobs
• Get payback on the defrauder if ever met again
• Find the Prince and Lion Inn
• Meet Theodoric Barney at the lighthouse at sundown
  

 Entities

• Friends
• Brothers
• Norman Graeme (mentor)
• Defrauder
• William Bradford (owner of the Copper Mackerel in Ayn Harbor, in league with rebel faction)
• Fitzhugh and Elsbeth Erelong (residents of Ayn Harbor, met with Norman a month ago)
• Agatha Holt (owner of the Prince and Lion Inn in Ayn Harbor)
• Theodoric Barney (stranger, warns against speaking Norman's name in Ayn Harbor)

The Ballad of Waverly Hardwick, Stanza 1

Waverly Hardwick arrives to Ayn Harbor by ship.

Is it morning?

(1) No, and the city streets are nearly abandoned as its night time. Only a few town guard patrol the street with their lanterns as the passengers disembark from the ship.

Waverly steps off the ship into the dock district and looks around. He is exhausted from his journey.

Does he see an inn nearby? (likely, many visitors would come looking for a place to stay)

(3) No, but he sees a sign post pointing to nearby landmarks and services. It points to the nearest inn.

What buildings are at the dock? (roll on Maze Rats Lower Class Buildings)

Mill. There is a river cutting through town that empties out into the sea.

Forge.

Stockyard. Ayn Harbor imports and/or exports livestock.

What is the name of the Inn listed on the sign post? (roll on Maze Rats Inn Names)

Copper Mackerel - They sell cheap mackerel here for only a copper piece. It’s popular with sailors and is the first destination of most visitors arriving by ship.

Waverly walks down toward the Copper Mackerel.

What other buildings does he pass? (roll on Maze Rats Lower Class Buildings)
Gambling Hall.

Fighting Pit.

Candlemaker.

The candlemaker’s shop is closed. The gambling hall and fighting pit are unmarked buildings. Each has a large, burly man with his arms folded across his barrel chest standing outside of each door.

Are other ship's passengers headed to the inn with him at this time? (likely, it's nighttime and their business will likely have to wait until daybreak tomorrow)

(6,6 ) Yes, and Waverly can already tell it’s unlikely any individual rooms will be available. He hopes there is a common room that he can put his bedroll on to sleep for the evening.

Intervention Level: 2

Do any of the ship's passengers go into the gambling hall and fighting pit? 

(1) No, and some of them seem to quicken their pace as they come across these mysterious but obviously seedy buildings. Waverly follows suit. Soon, he and the others outside the Copper Mackerel.

What is the inn like? (donjon and Kassoon Random Inn Generator)

Description: The inn is a two-story half-timbered building, with a large cellar. Accommodations consist of several small rooms with wooden cots. The common room contains curtains draped over the walls and shelves filled with random kooky crap. Kooky crap is nautical and fish themed.

Waverly looks around at the common room. Is there an empty table in the place? (unlikely, nearly all of the passengers from the ship have come to the inn with Waverly)

(4, 4) Yes, but there are so many new arrivals alongside Waverly from the recently arrived ship that they won't remain so.

Waverly finds an empty table and looks around the tavern for a moment.

Is everything as expected? (roll d6 for yes or no)

(1) No (roll d10 on TWENE table) 

(8) Remove Major Element

There is no one behind the counter to take food or drink orders or rent out rooms.

Does anyone at the counter or at a table have food or drink?

(1) No, and Waverly can overhear several of them complaining of hunger and exhaustion.

Waverly is exhausted as well. He would like to find a place to sleep for the night. He has travel rations in his inventory to eat if need be.

Does anyone sit down at his table?

(1) No, and a number of patrons are getting up from their own tables.

Do any patrons try to open the door behind the counter?

(6) Yes, and it’s unlocked.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 3 (roll on Intervention Table)

(1) New Entity

(Kassoon Random NPC Generator and Knave Character Generator)
William Bradford
Description: Wears clothes in the local fashion, and has cryptic speech. Has a sinewy physique, a ratlike face, sallow skin and long hair. Is honorable, but arrogant. Has been mutilated in the past. Favors chaos.
Personality: He likes to brag about his accomplishments and constantly tries to beat others to the punch. Energy wise he seems alert and responsive.
History: He was born into a rich family. His father was a soldier and died while he was still young. William was left his father's suit of armor and trained in its use and care. He spent several years traveling with his friend, before both settled down to enjoy the fruits of their adventures.
Motivation: He is compelled to act according to his religious beliefs. And he desires power and/or immortality.

Is William the owner of the inn?

(6) Yes, and... (unsure what the 'and' might be, so I generate a random phrase using watchout4snakes)

implacable stratagem

William is in his office pouring over paperwork sprawled out on his desk. There are maps of the city plastered all over his walls with different colored pins marking various locations. He leaps up in surprise and quickly gathers up the paperwork into a bundle and holds it up to his chest. Unbeknownst to those that walked in on him, William is linked to one of the factions in Ayn Harbor that is openly struggling for power.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 1

What does he say to the patrons that broke into his office? (watchout4snakes phrase)

atheistic municipality

“You heathen outlanders have no respect! Don’t you folks knock back where you’re from?”

Do the patrons apologize for disturbing him?

(5) Yes.

“We are sorry, sir. We just arrived to town and are in need of food, drink, and a place to rest.”

Does William calm down?

(5) Yes.

“Of course. My apologies. I wasn’t expecting a ship to come in at this hour. Thought I’d get some work done before turning in for the night.”

Was the ship Waverly arrived on expected at Ayn Harbor?

(4) Yes, but it made good time due to fair weather the whole way across the sea. William was expecting it tomorrow morning.

William comes out of his office and closes the door and locks it behind him before turning around to his guests. Waverly gets up from his seat at the table and tries to get to the counter where the innkeeper is dealing with his other guests.

Does Waverly have to wait long before getting to the counter?

(3) No, but by the time he gets up there he learns there are no more rooms available for the evening.

“I’m sorry, young man. I just gave away the last available rooms to the gentlemen in front of you.”

He then turns to the crowd behind Waverly and addresses them all.

"I'm sorry, folks! I am all out of rooms for the evening. Please, stay for a drink on the house for the inconvenience."

Do any of the passengers take William up on that offer?

(2) No. They immediately turn and leave the inn. Waverly does not turn to leave and nods to the innkeeper.

“I’ve brought a bedroll. Is there anywhere else I can sleep for the evening? A cellar or stable perhaps?”

Will William offer a space to Waverly to sleep?

(3) No, but he offers him directions to where he can find a place to sleep.

“I’m sorry, the Copper Mackerel doesn't have a stable. And the cellar is so damp and cold, I couldn’t call you my guest if I let you sleep down there. You will have to find another place in town to stay. Ayn Harbor has several inns. Is this your first time visiting? What sort of place are you looking for?”

“Some place cheap. I don’t need a bed. Just a roof over my head. Any inns you know of that fit that description?”

“Ah, yes. You’d be looking for the Prince and Lion. Don’t let the name fool you. Their accommodations aren’t fit for a prince’s coachman. But it should suit anyone looking to save a bit of coin.”

“Can you tell me where it is?” (Kassoon)

“Head North from here until you can’t go any further. It’s near the town gate down Prince Avenue off the Old King’s Road. Can I get you something to eat or drink before you head out? Drink's on the house.”

“No thank you. I ought to head out before they run out of rooms. Before I go, maybe you could help me. I’m looking for someone. An older man came into town about a month ago by ship. Maybe he stopped here? Norman Graeme?”

Does William recognize the name? (unlikely)

(3) No, but he claims to remember faces.

“Sorry, I’m not good with names. Never forget a face though. If he stayed here, I’d remember. What does this Graeme look like?”

What does Norman Graeme look like? (roll on Maze Rats and Knave tables)

“He’s an old man, but has a chiseled body you’d expect to find on an athlete. Stern blue eyes. A broken nose. Tanned skin. Short, curly gray hair. If he wasn’t dressed in armor, he was probably wearing an out-of-fashion rumpled outfit in the fashion of the South.”

Does William claim to recognize Norman?

(5) Yes.

Did he get a room when he arrived?

(1) No, and he didn’t get a meal or drink either.

What was he doing there then? (watchout4snakes)

mated loaning

He came seeking out a particular couple who had something to give to him.

Is the couple married?

(4) Yes, but they don't love each other and both are involved in extramarital affairs.

Are they residents of Ayn Harbor?

(5) Yes. (roll names on Maze Rats Upper Class Names Table)

Fitzhugh and Elsbeth Erelong.

Does William know what business they had with Norman?

(1) No, and he hasn’t seen the couple or Norman since then.

Were they lending him money?

(2) No.

What were they giving him? (watchout4snakes)

praising sprig

A plant that is used in some religious worship ritual.

What kind of plant is it? (roll on Maze Rats Plants Table)

Hemlock

Does William know what hemlock looks like?

(4) Yes, but he wasn’t paying enough attention to know what kind of plant it was.

Would William recognize the plant as being religious in nature?

(2) No. It's not a local religion and Norman views anyone outside of his faith as being an atheist and is not familiar with any of their customs.

Is it from a religion from Waverly's homeland? (likely)

(1, 1) No, and it's not a religion that Waverly is familiar with either.

“Yeah, he came in here. Sat down. I greeted him and asked if he would have something to eat or drink. He told me he would look over the menu and let me know. Before I came back to take his order, the Erelongs were sitting down with him.”

“Who are they?” (roll on Maze Rats reputation table)
Weirdo

“Strange couple, if you ask me.”

Why are they strange? (watchout4snakes)

bestial leveraging

“They are about as noble as noble families get in Ayn Harbor. But despite their standing, it wasn’t an uncommon sight to see them dragging livestock through the streets down to the stockyard. That type of thing is beneath people of their class. Pretty funny to see them in their clean clothes of the latest fashions dragging asses and bovine by their leads. I never asked them what they were doing. I've heard from guests it had to do with money.”

Is it unusual that William hasn’t seen them in the past month?

(6) Yes, and he gets a worried expression on his face.

INTERVENTION LEVEL: 2

“Strange I haven’t bumped into them. Their coming and going to the stockyard was such a common sight for so long. One day they just stopped. I wonder if whatever scheme they were involved in got them the money they needed to get out of town?”

Does William believe that is the case?

(4) Yes, but he still has lingering concerns that something bad could have happened to them. Ayn Harbor is far from a safe town to live in.

“What business did they have with Norman?”

“I’m not sure. I remember they sat down at the old man's table. The Erelongs didn’t order anything to eat or drink either. They had a satchel with them. They took out some sort of plant. A weed. I don’t know, I wasn’t really paying attention. They handed it to the old man though.”

“What else can you tell me?”

Does William share anything else?

(5) Yes.

What else does he have to say? (watchout4snakes)

intransitive displacement

Norman took the plant without touching it.

“Not much. It was kind of funny though. The Erelongs took out the plant and held it out to the old man. He didn’t grab it though. He took out a glass jar and had them drop it in before putting on the lid and putting it away. I came to take their order, but the old man said he had sudden business to attend to and had to leave. Haven’t seen him since.”

Did Norman ever show any interest in botany or horticulture to Waverly? (unlikely)

(1) No, and just as Norman scoffed at Waverly’s interest in music, he had scoffed at his brother’s interest in collecting and cataloguing the plants of their homeland. Norman thought the arts and study of nature to be a waste of time for a true warrior.

Can Waverly deduce the plant as being toxic from William's description of Norman's acquisition of the Hemlock? (roll Intelligence Save 15)

(13+1=14) Fail. Waverly doesn't dwell on the innkeeper's account long and just wants to sleep.

“Thank you for your time.”

Waverly leaves the inn and goes out into the street. He is not sure where exactly King’s Road or Prince Avenue are, but follows the innkeeper's advice and heads north away from the sea toward the town gate.

Plots

• Make up with friends by earning back the money we were defrauded of
• Find mentor to help find paying adventuring jobs
• Get payback on the defrauder if ever met again
• Find the Prince and Lion Inn

 Entities

• Friends
• Brothers
• Norman Graeme (mentor)
• Defrauder
• William Bradford (owner of the Copper Mackerel, in league with rebel faction)
• Fitzhugh and Elsbeth Erelong (residents of Ayn Harbor, met with Norman a month ago)