6. Gosterwick

Jul 5, 2025 3:26 pm
You spend a rather uncomfortable night on the common room floor at the Broken Head, waking to another chilly, rainy day.

After settling your dues with Kettlebelly*, you depart the inn and make your way across the ruined city (1 hour), before carefully navigating the treacherous path down the cliff face (4 hours). Once safely at the foot of the thunderous waterfall, in the shadow of the huge stone colossi of Arden and Vul, you embark on the 9-mile journey south along the Imperial Road to Gosterwick (9 hours). It’s late in the evening before the town’s lights finally come into view.

I’ve added a section on Gosterwick in the "Lore" thread, along with a couple of maps.

*If you haven’t already done so, please deduct 13 silver pieces each for last night’s stay at The Broken Head, and someone deduct 10 silver pieces for Billie’s stabling.


---
10:00 pm, Lunday 3rd Lucrios (April) 2993 AEP
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 1: 9/9, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 4/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 1: 5/5, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 1: 10/10, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 5, 2025 10:58 pm
OOC:
Jacky's sheet was updated for the tavern bill, yep. I paid for everyone including Billie.
"While we're here, let's ask around about the dragon too. It couldn't hurt to know a little more - maybe how often it goes out hunting, for one thing."
Last edited July 5, 2025 10:58 pm
Jul 7, 2025 7:30 pm
Thrudmarr plods along wearily, water dripping from his hair and beard. His stomach has been growling for the last hour, and the sight of Gosterwick's welcoming lights makes him almost stumble with eagerness.

"Food soon!" He pats his coin pouch through his wet pack, already dreaming of hot stew and ale.
Jul 7, 2025 7:40 pm
And ALE, adds our dwarven fellow!
Jul 8, 2025 4:02 pm
Waddling into Gosterwick, our dwarven fellow gazes brown bulging eyes all around, for the local tavern, to enjoy a drink with friends. Then, on to the local remple. For that he may pay homage to Lucrean, for helping him make it this far!

Well now, I be wantin’ an ale, n’ then a visit to the temple! Finally, friends, I could upgrade meh armor, if our coin’ll allow get it!

So many things fer ta do!
OOC:
Im up for anything, with Grim, just tossing out personal preferences. Thx. :)
Last edited July 8, 2025 4:08 pm
Jul 8, 2025 6:51 pm
Zacharias Polipulis flirted with moroseness yet again. This adventure was not going to plan. Well, maybe we will get some coin in town, and I can upgrade my outfitting. Going to need more to protect these pre-arthritic joints now. Slapping his forehead, he realized he hadn't thanked Jacky for covering his inn-bill. Mama always said to be grateful to those who do you favors. Walking up to the rogue, Zach cleared his throat and said "Much thanks, Master Juliette, for your kindness and graciousness, covering our bill for the past evening. A thousand blessings on the heads of you and your mule Beelzebub."
Jul 8, 2025 7:08 pm
Aye, Jackey! Yer kindness don’t go unnoticed on this ol’ dwarf! Thank ya fer de room n’ de board! Ya know ol’ Grim’s always got yer back!
Jul 9, 2025 1:44 am
"Don't mention it," Jacky waves a hand. "Although, if you could be inclined to learn my proper name, Zacharias, that would be a fine way to thank me!"

The halfling will traipse with Grim to the tavern and hobnob about for any juicy rumours. The dragon would be an easy conversation starter, he wagers.
Jul 9, 2025 3:30 am
"Of course, Master Jeffrerson. I will make extra efforts!" Zacharias responded to Jacky in earnest.
OOC:
While INT 8 and WIS 7 aren’t that much below average, I’m playing Zacharias to have the mental quirk of not quite getting people’s name correct. If it has in-game ramifications, we’ll just have to roleplay it 😈😈
Jul 10, 2025 3:44 pm
Gosterwick
(This post is somewhat out of sequence, but I think you’re going to need this information so you can decide whether to keep or sell the codex, and the corresponding effect on your XP).

Whilst the others spend their days training, Ella studies the mysterious title-less codex that is inscribed simply as "Property of Eustachius the Cantor" on the inside cover.

Through the casting of multiple Comprehend Languages spells, she is able to discern that the codex, which consists of leather-bound parchment, is a miscellany of various sections:

- Descriptive notes of a variety of Thothian liturgies (Litany of Light, Canticle of Revelation, a Psalmody).

- Descriptions and vague summoning notes for beings known as the "Guardians".

- A 10-folio history of the temple of Thoth within Arden Vul.

- A series of capsule hagiographies of early high priests.

- The exact note sequence for a song called the Cantor’s Lament.

- Two unique spells: "The Pummeling Fists of Arak-Zhorr" (Magic User 2) and "Curse Item" (Cleric 5, Magic User 6, Illusionist 6).
Jul 10, 2025 6:33 pm
Barkeep! Ale!

Oh listen how ol’ Grim bellows forth his kind call in ye ole tavern! A dwarven priest in need of alcoholic attention! Grim sits and banters with Jacky whilst intermittently fidgeting with the holy symbol adorning his obnoxiously thick neck.

Well now, if there be anyone in here fer ta share a rumor r’ three, regarding the dragon r’ de dungeons r’ some such, then ol’ Grim’ll be wise ta hear it! ’Specially if there be a fellow dwarf involved. I’m more likeable ta meh own kind ya know, n’ all like dat!

Well said, dwarven fellow. Well. Said.
OOC:
Drinking, fellowshipping, hoping to gather information.
Last edited July 10, 2025 8:53 pm
Jul 10, 2025 8:39 pm
Zacharias enters the tavern after Grimidek, and watches with some amusement as the dwarf cannot help himself but to bellow for ale. With Josephine paying for my inn bill, I can spare a coin or two for an ale myself, he thinks.

Zach approaches the table at which Grimidek and Jacky sit, lets his pack fall to his feet, and leans his rather large sword and his shield against the table, deciding that when the waitstaff arrives to take care of the loud dwarf, he too would ask for a nice, cold lager.
Jul 11, 2025 9:52 pm
Thrudmarr follows his companions into the tavern, shaking rainwater from his hair and beard. The warmth and smell of ale immediately lifts his spirits after the long, wet journey. When he hears Grim bellowing for ale, his face breaks into a wide grin. He approaches the bar with heavy footsteps and slams a handful of coins down.

"Ale! Big ale!"

After receiving his first (of many) rounds, he looks around the tavern, scoping out the locals. "Who drink most?", he holds up his mug challengingly.
Last edited July 11, 2025 9:53 pm
Jul 12, 2025 7:13 am
Gosterwick
You enter Gosterwick through the town’s Water Gate, a gatehouse anchored by two 15’-diameter stone towers that blocks the narrow strand between the ridge and the lake. From there, Grim’s sixth sense for ale leads you swiftly to The Yellow Cloak Inn (building 21 on the town map).

The Yellow Cloak occupies one of the oldest structures in Gosterwick on a favourable site adjoining the Central Market. The main structure is painted imperial yellow and is 5 stories tall. Facing Stone Street, the ground floor of the main structure holds reception, a lounge, and the upper-class common room, while the upper floors are divided into individual rooms for rent. The subsidiary structure faces Imperial Row and is newer, being only three stories tall; the ground floor holds the kitchen and main common room, while the upper two floors contain several dormitory-style bunkrooms.

With drinks procured, you settle down and ask around about the dragon. Whilst several of the patrons have heard rumours of a "terrible dragon that rules the surface ruins of Ardent Vul", no one has ever seen it.
Whilst you’re in Gosterwick we’ll move to a more freeform timescale rather than running things turn-by-turn. Just let me know what you’d like to do over the coming days, and we’ll work through those activities accordingly. Grim, Thrud and Zach will be spending most of their time training, but that doesn’t preclude them from minor activities such as shopping.

---
11:00 pm, Lunday 3rd Lucrios (April) 2993 AEP
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 1: 9/9, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 4/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 1: 5/5, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 1: 10/10, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 12, 2025 9:01 am
"Well, if any of you doubt that the dragon's real, you can head on over up to the Broken Head," Jacky suggests. "I wager you'll get a chance to see it soon enough!"

Jacky's not quite given up hope on deciphering the constellation he's drawn just yet. Are there any scholarly types in town he might go ask about the drawing?
OOC:
Are we spending multiple days in Gosterwick, or just the one? I was assuming the latter.
Jul 12, 2025 11:07 am
Quote:
OOC:
Are we spending multiple days in Gosterwick, or just the one? I was assuming the latter.
Training takes 1-4 weeks!
Jul 12, 2025 2:09 pm
OOC:
Theres also a heft gold investment to train levels, if we’re going by the book.
Jul 12, 2025 8:10 pm
Grim wilm take the next three weeks training with local clergy and fighters. Getting himself at a place to prepare more spells, and practicing with hammer and shield.
New armor may need to wait, and that assuming we can afford 3 weeks of training, along with room and board.
Jul 13, 2025 9:56 am
Training - Grim
There is a temple dedicated to Lucreon in Gosterwick (location 10 in the town map), so Grim heads there in search of training.

The shrine is a classic, three-chamber structure. The front is the ante-cella, in which the clerics and the devout congregate. The middle chamber is known as the cella, and it is here that the main rituals take place. On the opposite side of the cella is the postern; it is unconnected to the cella and holds the administrative offices and apartments of the clergy.

The main cultic object within the cella is the colossal granite statue of Lucreon, dressed as an Archontean factor associate, holding a massive bag of coins in his outstretched right hand. A large wooden chest sits below the money bag; believers are encouraged to place their offerings into the chest.

Lucreon’s shrine is home to one of the most impressive mysteries of the temples of Gosterwick. As soon as a coin drops to the bottom of the wooden offering box, it magically appears in the air above the statue of Lucreon and falls 10’ into the god’s open money bag. As a result, during important rituals, a near-constant stream of coins may be seen to come clinking down from thin air to fill the god’s bag.

Grim receives his training from one of the temple’s resident clerics, Halidor the Observant. It takes 3 weeks.

Training - Thrud and Zach
Thrud and Zach go to The Azure Keep, the home of the Knights of the Azure Shield (location 1 on the town map), for their training.

The keep is sited atop a curved ridge that rises 45’ above the flatlands surrounding it. The central tower of the keep is 50’ square, with four above-ground floors (plus the roof level) and two below-ground cellars. The cylindrical roof reaches nearly 65’ above the ridge and is sheathed with sky-blue porcelain tiles. Access to the keep is via wooden stairs rising to doors set into the keep walls at the level of the first floor (in other words, there is no ground-floor access). Numerous arrow slits, or windows, dot the walls of the first, second and third floors; each window can be shuttered from within the keep. The roof level has four larger openings in its walls that allow ballistae to fire at attackers from all directions. Although the square tower is the oldest and most recognisable element of the keep, the keep also comprises two walled baileys lying to the north and south of the tower. In the northern bailey may be found the stables of the Order, as well as a stone barracks and residence for the knights and their guests.

The keep is governed by Sept Commander Horatius Gesellion. Three Knight Commanders assist him: Gaius Christopher Relleion, Martin Hadellor and Lucia Nemead. The remaining 27 knights are divided into 3 conrois, or troops, of nine knights, each led by one of the Knight Commanders.

It is Martin Hadellor, the Arms Master, who oversees Thrud's and Zach’s training. Zach’s training takes 2 weeks (Thrud - please roll me a 1d4 for the duration of your training).
You may all roll for your additional hit points. Grim gains an additional 1st level spell, and Thrud’s and Zach’s To-Hit improves by 1.

Jacky's Constellation
testlum says:
Jacky's not quite given up hope on deciphering the constellation he's drawn just yet. Are there any scholarly types in town he might go ask about the drawing?
Asking around, Jacky is directed to Astableon, Gosterwick's resident scribe and bookseller. His small shop (location 29 on the town map) is stuffed with several hundred codices and bound scrolls.

Jacky - you have a 60% chance of finding some information on the constellation within Astableon's various manuscripts ... please go ahead and roll.

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: ?/?, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 4/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: ?/?, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: ?/?, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 13, 2025 11:39 am
Jacky looks about the cluttered bookstore with interest. Surely if there was a book to have information about the star-map he'd drawn, it would be found inside here. "It must have taken years and years to have read all these, master Astableon," the halfling ventures. "Which one is your favorite?"

Rolls

Constellation info - (1d100)

(45) = 45

Jul 14, 2025 1:06 pm
Thrudmarr follows Zach through the keep, his eyes darting around at the knights and their gleaming weapons. When introduced to Martin Hadellor, he attempts an awkward bow

"Arms Master! Thrud ready learn!" He hefts his battle axe proudly, showing it to the knight "Thrud have good axe! Learn use better!"
Jul 15, 2025 1:31 pm
Our dwarven fellow bows fervently. His prayerful proceedings following reverently the teachings of Halidor the Observant.

Well now, I can already say, Brothers, I must refrain from hard drink. I fell into alcoholic ways of meh fightin’ forebears. That’s also how I acquired and gave kept meh beard. But I realize, a good dwarf in this realm abstains from liquor. Gonna do what I need to do, to keep meh-self pure of heart n’ mind.

In between sessions of supplication, Grim scribes a list and begins an accounting of the party’s treasure. Hoping to keep a meticulous record as but a good ol’ dwarf can do!
Jul 16, 2025 5:11 pm
Astableon the Scribe and Bookseller (Location 29)
testlum says:
"It must have taken years and years to have read all these, master Astableon," the halfling ventures. "Which one is your favorite?"
"My favourite? Why, that’s an impossible choice! Like picking between one’s children. Every book has its merit, one way or another. Though, as you’ve been asking about dragons, there is one tome I would very much like to acquire should you come across it - 'A History of Dragonkind' by Yasidoranicil. Were you to find a copy during your adventures, I would pay handsomely for it."

Astableon helps Jacky locate a book on astronomy. Between the two of you, you match Jacky’s sketch to the Constellation of the Ibis.

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: 13/13, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: 7/7, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: ?/?, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 17, 2025 2:39 am
Jacky assures the bookseller that he'll keep the title in mind. "The Ibis?" Jacky says, tugging an ear. "That chamber I copied it from must have some relation to that god Thoth, then." Thanking the man for his time, the halfling purchases some parchment and writing materials before leaving the shop.
OOC:
I don't see the price for ink, but Jacky spends 11sp on a quill and 5 sheets of parchment.
With that done, Jacky will make for the shores of Totey Lake with his trusty ten-foot-pole-cum-fishing-rod. Fisherfolk surely must have stories to tell, and he'll get a spot of fishing done at the same time - what better way to while away some time?
Jul 17, 2025 5:33 am
Zacharias spent two full weeks at The Azure Keep, sweating profusely. It was clear that a 29-year-old body was not the same as that of a 19-year-old. Moreover, he was worried about the bill coming due. He knew Lady Ellagel and Jacky would get the best prices for their loot, but it always irked him to have unpaid bills. Momma always said a gentlemen didn't leave his debts unpaid, he thought for the fifty-jillionth time as he parried a nasty slash to the head with his shield and thrust forward with his bastard sword. I wonder if I'll have any coin left for new equipment.

Edit
OOC:
I'm an idiot. I swapped the dice with the reason. Rerolling.
Edit 2
OOC:
I should have had 11 HP the whole time as I have a 15 CON. Rolling a 3 gives me 4 more for 15 HP.
Last edited July 17, 2025 5:42 am

Rolls

1d10 - (Level2HP)

() + 2 = 2

Level 2 HP - (1d10)

(3) = 3

Jul 17, 2025 3:52 pm
Ellagel spends the next three weeks engrossed in the reading, a quarter hour per day, of the mysterious codex the party retrieved in the Halls. She knows she would be unable to transcribe the contents of the book, but she makes copious notes of the contents she manages to interpret thanks to the eldritch invocations she used every morning.
OOC:
Ellagel has little else to do for now. She definitely focuses on the book, trying to make as much of it accessible to her once she no longer has the power to read it while adventuring. Since this activity would take at most an hour or so each day, she will assist the others in shopping or organizing their next incursion. She will also look for :
- a bank or other safekeeping institution where she could leave her unused wealth and the codex while the party adventures (with instructions as to who to hand the contents to if she would meet an untimely death in those forsaken Halls);
- potential porters to recruit;
- a steed to carry additional rations, water and heavier tools (rope, pickaxes, shovels, tents, etc.) once the party moves back to Arden Vul.
Jul 17, 2025 6:43 pm
Taking an afternoon break from his clerical training, our dwarven fellow waddles over to the Smithy. In searching of armorous upgrades!
Aye! Can ye provide a suit of plate mail, r’ banded mail at least, fer an ole dwarf?!
Grim gestures at his studded leather armor, worn calloused stubby fingers. I have this studded leather, if ya will take it on a trade!
Last edited July 17, 2025 7:32 pm
Jul 18, 2025 7:43 am
Ella in Gosterwick
matmaisan says:
OOC:
Ellagel has little else to do for now. She definitely focuses on the book, trying to make as much of it accessible to her once she no longer has the power to read it while adventuring. Since this activity would take at most an hour or so each day, she will assist the others in shopping or organizing their next incursion.
I don’t have any more specific details of the contents of the codex. However, I will assume that Ella has made sufficient notes that if you come across something in the Halls that might possibly have been mentioned within its pages, then I’ll give you a chance to know something relevant. I will also drop the details of the two spells it contains into the Lore thread.
matmaisan says:
OOC:
She will also look for :
- a bank or other safekeeping institution where she could leave her unused wealth and the codex while the party adventures (with instructions as to who to hand the contents to if she would meet an untimely death in those forsaken Halls);
There are three merchant factors in Gosterwick that provide banking services (some of these are the same factors the merchants in The Broken Head represent):

- The Rarities Factor - the newest of the factors, recently founded by Wicktrimmer, an imperial goblin and retired adventurer. They will accept deposits of at least 150 gp and charge 0.75% of their value each month.

- The Silent Factor - a somewhat mysterious factor that believes anonymity in business transactions ensures that egos, rivalries, and enmities do not spoil good business. The minimum deposit is 500 gp with a 1.25% per month service fee.

- The Prosperity Factor - an empire-wide merchant collective. Minimum deposit of 250 gp with a 1% monthly service fee.
matmaisan says:
OOC:
She will also look for :
- potential porters to recruit;
I will assume that you are able to find both a porter (labourer) and a torch bearer (linkboy). Each charges 1 silver piece per day, or 20 silver pieces per month. They also expect you to fully equip them.
matmaisan says:
OOC:
She will also look for :
- a steed to carry additional rations, water and heavier tools (rope, pickaxes, shovels, tents, etc.) once the party moves back to Arden Vul.
In addition to Billie?

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: 13/13, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: 7/7, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: 14/14, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 18, 2025 8:27 am
Grim in Gosterwick
WhiteDwarf says:
Taking an afternoon break from his clerical training, our dwarven fellow waddles over to the Smithy. In searching of armorous upgrades!
Aye! Can ye provide a suit of plate mail, r’ banded mail at least, fer an ole dwarf?!
Grim gestures at his studded leather armor, worn calloused stubby fingers. I have this studded leather, if ya will take it on a trade!
Between training sessions, Grim makes his way to the largest of Gosterwick’s three smithies. It is run by Torrun, a formidable Wiskin woman and a talented smith. She runs her smithy with an iron fist, directing her teams of apprentices in projects mundane and extraordinary (location 14 on the town map).

Plate armour doesn’t exist in the world of Arden Vul. However, Torunn can craft Grim a fine suit of banded armour for 99 gold pieces.

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: 13/13, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: 7/7, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: 14/14, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 21, 2025 1:12 pm
Ella meticulously calculated the cost of the provisions necessary for a second incursion Into the Halls.
Burbage says:
There are three merchant factors in Gosterwick that provide banking services (some of these are the same factors the merchants in The Broken Head represent):

- The Rarities Factor - the newest of the factors, recently founded by Wicktrimmer, an imperial goblin and retired adventurer. They will accept deposits of at least 150 gp and charge 0.75% of their value each month.

- The Silent Factor - a somewhat mysterious factor that believes anonymity in business transactions ensures that egos, rivalries, and enmities do not spoil good business. The minimum deposit is 500 gp with a 1.25% per month service fee.

- The Prosperity Factor - an empire-wide merchant collective. Minimum deposit of 250 gp with a 1% monthly service fee.
So if the codex is worth 4000gp, I'd have to pay 40gp per month for its safekeeping by the Prosperity factor? Am I understanding this correctly?
Burbage says:
I will assume that you are able to find both a porter (labourer) and a torch bearer (linkboy). Each charges 1 silver piece per day, or 20 silver pieces per month. They also expect you to fully equip them.
Would the be satisfied with leather armour, shield and short sword or mace?
Burbage says:
In addition to Billie?
I'm assuming there aren't trained cave dogs or giant lizards one could acquire and bring along within the halls. As I was thinking of buying three or four large tents, digging gear, enough lamp oil, rations (something like 1à iron ration per adventurer and the two henchmen, fodder for the pack animals, etc.) and rope for an extended exploration, it would seem that a second steed might be necessary.
Jul 21, 2025 1:34 pm
Grim hands over 99 coins, with stubby calloused hands. Well now, I wanna be thankin’ ya fer yer business, our dwarven fellow says to Torunn.

Here be a suit o’ studded leather, I’ve no longer use fer it. Meh-be it can help keep a young adventurer alive, here in this dangerous realm!

Grim dons his fancy new armor, and waddles back to the temple!
Jul 21, 2025 2:03 pm
After two, long, arduous, grueling, sweat-filled weeks, Zacharias feels as if he has learned a thing or two more about the fine are of bashing others' heads with pointy sticks. Handing over what to him was a king's ransom of coin, he returns to the inn at which the party has been staying with a feeling of satisfaction tinging his exhaustion. Still, his share of the loot remaining was a bit over 500gp (508.92 to be precise). Maybe I should look into upgrading some gear, he thought, and then deposit the rest so I don't lose it in ther Halls..
OOC:
Was room and board for the training covered by the fees, or is that extra? If so, what does our inn charge a night/week?
Jul 21, 2025 5:01 pm
Thrudmarr arrives at the Azure Keep each morning before dawn, his face bright with excitement. The training is hard work, but he throws himself into every drill with enthusiasm. He practices his axe swings against the training posts, wood chips flying with each powerful blow. Between sessions, he watches the other knights with wide eyes, trying to copy their movements.

After the two weeks, he emerges alongside Zach, with a healthy pride and an even heavier coin pouch. He gives Zach a hefty slap on the back. "We strong now! And rich!"
Jul 21, 2025 10:20 pm
OOC:
Does Jacky learn or catch anything from hanging around the docks?
Jul 22, 2025 2:14 pm
Gosterwick
matmaisan says:
So if the codex is worth 4000gp, I'd have to pay 40gp per month for its safekeeping by the Prosperity factor? Am I understanding this correctly?
Sort of. Except the codex is worth 8,000 gp (but only 4,000 xp), so technically it would be 80 gp per month. However, the factors are not really interested in storing physical items. It's your coin that they want (so they can "reinvest" it for their own purposes).
matmaisan says:
Would they be satisfied with leather armour, shield and short sword or mace?
The porter and the torch bearer have no intention of fighting, so whilst they would appreciate the leather armour, they have no interest in shields or weaponry (or are even trained to use them). The porter expects you to provide anything they need for carrying stuff, e.g. a backpack, sacks, etc. The torch bearer expects you to provide them with their sources of illumination. They are not adventurers. They are there to do one job, and one job only.
matmaisan says:
I'm assuming there aren't trained cave dogs or giant lizards one could acquire and bring along within the halls. As I was thinking of buying three or four large tents, digging gear, enough lamp oil, rations (something like 1à iron ration per adventurer and the two henchmen, fodder for the pack animals, etc.) and rope for an extended exploration, it would seem that a second steed might be necessary.
There is a livestock and horse market in Gosterwick (location 31 on the town map). So there's no trouble acquiring an additional steed. A mule costs 20 gp, a draft horse 17 gp and a riding horse 28 gp.
Avraham says:
OOC:
Was room and board for the training covered by the fees, or is that extra? If so, what does our inn charge a night/week?
Bed and board at the Yellow Cloak Inn (assuming you keep things non-fancy) is 5 sp per person per night, and the same for Billie’s stabling. Therefore, 3 weeks' accommodation for all of you would be 63 gp.
testlum says:
OOC:
Does Jacky learn or catch anything from hanging around the docks?
A nasty rash?

As you might imagine, the fisherfolk of Totey Lake have many a tall tale, but they're mostly stories of "the one that got away". However, one of them recalls how they recently came across a group of dodgy-looking tinkers and tradesmen making their way for something they called the "Forum" at Arden Vul saying that Stephania paid good money for the most basic supplies. They said: "If you want to go to the Forum, shine two lanterns from the left side of the river at night-time. Then look for the basket on the cliff face."
Jul 22, 2025 2:39 pm
More than happy to exchange stories of past fishing exploits, Jacky hobnobs with the dockside residents. He isn't quite sure what to make of their tale of this Stephania, but it has the ring of some elaborate trick to him. Nevertheless, he makes a note of the instructions.
Jul 25, 2025 4:19 pm
Zacharias winced as Thrudmarr's mighty slap hits him right between the shoulder blades. "Yes, Thurgood my dear friend, we are rich. At least richer, but don't go screaming it in town unless you want to be robbed! Zach enters the inn, and hands the innkeep his owed rent (OOC - reducing net worth by 2pp and 5sp). We may be here a bit longer, sir; I'll pay as I go, thank you for your patience.

Looking at his remaining funds, Zach considers whether or not he should invest in new equipment or bank his earnings, and if so, with whom. Thinking is hard for Zach, but he pondered whilst sitting on the bunk he had been using for the past three weeks.
Jul 26, 2025 2:09 am
OOC:
Let's have our characters meet up and inquire what the Silent and Prosperity factors offer in return for their higher charge of service.
Jul 28, 2025 12:40 am
Thrud looks confused when Zach calls him "Thurgood" but shrugs it off. Following Zach into the inn, he pulls out his own coin pouch and approaches the innkeeper with a handful of mixed coins.

"Thrud pay too! Umm...help count?"

With that concluded he rejoins the rest of the party assuming they have concluded their individual business before this.
testlum says:
OOC:
Let's have our characters meet up and inquire what the Silent and Prosperity factors offer in return for their higher charge of service.
"Thrud say bury gold! That always work for Thrud. But if smart friends say bury at bank-place, Thrud will do."
Jul 28, 2025 5:11 am
Burying is good, Theobald", Zach responds to Thrudmarr, "but sometimes it's better to pay someone trustworthy to watch it, so strangers don't dig up your gold.I wonder if these factors have other offices nearer to our homes. It may be safer to carry a letter of credit than coinage. Sometimes. Of course, if they are a fraud, then the letter is worthless. Maybe the Lady Envelope or Jacaruso know more about econo…, elconi…, erkosam…, money stuff. Zach turns to Ellagel and Jackie expectantly.
Jul 28, 2025 8:14 am
Ellagel listened to the two fighting men’s exchange on financial matters. She chipped in gently: "Though coins do not rot, the codex would. And it is far too valuable to be left to feed worms."
The elf then accompanies the other party members in their visit of the three Factors.
Jul 28, 2025 10:25 am
Gosterwick
To keep things moving, let me try to summarise your progress in Gosterwick …

- Grim, Thrud and Zach have all completed their training and levelled up.

- You have recruited two hirelings - Eric, a Wiskin labourer, and Hector, an Archontean linkboy. You have equipped both with leather armour, a dagger and a backpack. In addition, Eric has two large sacks, and Hector has a lantern, 5 flasks of oil and 2 torches. The up-front costs to equip them come to 28 gold pieces in total (someone please update the party finances), and you will pay them a daily wage of 1 silver piece each.

- Grim has purchased some new banded armour. If anyone else wants to buy anything, just go ahead. Most goods listed in the OSRIC rulebook are available at 110% of their list price. Plate armour is not available. Similarly, some of the more exotic weapons may not be.

- The plan is to deposit your spare gold with one of the factors. I don’t have much more information beyond what I provided previously. So, unless you have any specific questions about any of them, you just need to pick a factor. Thrud’s plan to bury the gold is also viable, sacrificing security for cost-effectiveness (I’ll say there’s a 10% chance that your stash is found and looted).

- If you want to store the codex somewhere rather than carry it, Astableon the bookseller would offer to look after it for free (he promises only to examine it, not to sell it!).

Once we’ve got the above all wrapped up, we can return to dungeoneering!

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: 13/13, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: 7/7, 60’ (Lantern)
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: 14/14, 60’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Jul 28, 2025 12:10 pm
Jacky inquires about the different rates between the three services. After all, there must be a reason the Silent and Prosperity factors charge more and have a higher minimum deposit.
OOC:
@WhiteDwarf Could you subtract the hirelings' fees from the party pool?
Last edited July 28, 2025 12:12 pm
Jul 28, 2025 12:52 pm
OOC:
Zach will tag along and intends to deposit his excess funds wherever the party decides. DM, I think Zach gt his rope back after helping Billy up the mountain, or does he need to buy more rope?
Jul 28, 2025 6:04 pm
testlum says:
Jacky inquires about the different rates between the three services. After all, there must be a reason the Silent and Prosperity factors charge more and have a higher minimum deposit.
The Rarities Factor is the newest factor. Perhaps they are trying to gain market share, or balance transfers, from the other more established factors, by offering discounted rates.

With the Silent Factor, you're paying extra for the anonymity.
Avraham says:
OOC:
DM, I think Zach gt his rope back after helping Billy up the mountain, or does he need to buy more rope?
Yes, you have your rope back. I assumed you untied it at the top of the climb.
Jul 29, 2025 4:20 pm
OOC:
Burying gold may have been Thrud's idea, but as a player I'll be using whatever bank everyone else uses for his own private gold as well (minus a bit of pocket change for anything that comes up).
Aug 1, 2025 7:25 am
Prosperity Factor
You settle on the Prosperity Factor as the lucky custodians of your newfound wealth, a large house facing Imperial Way (location 24 on the town map). The building is stone for the ground and first floors, and wooden for the second floor. The ground floor holds the public Transaction Hall, where citizens can meet with one of the associates to negotiate business. The Chief Associate is Beryl Gneiss, one of the very rare dwarfs to abandon dwarven society for the human world. He invites you to take a seat to discuss your requirements.

Please provide me with the details of how you would like to deposit your coin. Are you going to take a single party account or individual accounts? And how much are you going to deposit? Remember, the minimum deposit per account is 250 gold pieces.

---
Ellagel, Elven Fighter/Magic User 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Grimidek, Dwarven Cleric 2: 13/13, 60’
Jacky, Halfling Fighter/Thief 1/1: 6/6, 60’
Thrudmarr, Wiskin Fighter 2: 7/7, 60’
Zacharias, Archontean Fighter 2: 14/14, 60’
---
Eric, Labourer, 120’
Hector, Linkboy, 120’
---
Billie, Mule: 120’

Link to Jacky’s maps …
Aug 1, 2025 11:29 am
Jacky puts up 700 gold pieces to deposit in a personal account, leaving him 18 and change for odds and ends.
Aug 1, 2025 5:04 pm
Having converted most of her coins into higher denominations, she will deposit 125pp in a personal or common account. I assume the party stash will also be deposited here once common expenses are taken care of.
Aug 1, 2025 5:51 pm
Zach deposits 100 pp.

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