msjx

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Niv Lova, s3 (solo AP)

This is a continuing playtest of the Niv Lova (link)RPG playtest. Previous sessions: Session 0, Session 1, session 2.

The Borderlands (solo), part 5

As a GM I love when a simple random encounter ends up not only being interesting and exciting as it unfolds, but ends up being a campaign defining moment...

Previous sessions: Zero, one, one.five, two, three, four

The Borderlands (solo), part 4

Previous sessions: Zero, one, one.five, two, three

The Borderlands (solo), part 3

I feel like this is going much better than my previous attempt, it seems more smooth and logical. The NPCs, though there are many more to deal with, are being played logically by the AI. I really like how interactions with the NPCs is so strongly part of the game and this is not just simple combat and back and forth.

Previous sessions: Zero, one, one.five, two

Session Three Begins – Return to the Keep

The journey back to the Keep on the Borderlands is uneventful, the wildlands eerily quiet as Aldric and his company march across the rolling hills. The weight of their coin purses and the mystery of their spoils sit heavy in their minds, but the thought of warm food and strong drink pushes them forward.

As they approach the Keep’s gate, the familiar sight of blue-tabarded guards standing watch greets them.

One of the guards nods in recognition, eyeing their dust-covered gear. "Back in one piece, eh? Not all of your kind do."

Dain grins, adjusting his sword belt. "We’re not like most."

The guard chuckles, waving them through. "Better head to the Traveller’s Rest, then. A hot meal and a strong drink’ll do you good."

Aldric leads the party through the Keep’s bustling square, the scent of fresh bread and roasting meat filling the air. Merchants call out their wares, while a patrol of soldiers drills in the yard.

Securing Rooms for the Night

At the Traveller’s Rest Tavern, Gregor the barkeep raises an eyebrow as they walk in. "Back so soon? I expected your bones to be feeding the crows by now."

Wyllow grins, tossing a coin onto the bar. "Not this time, my good man. Two rooms, and keep the ale coming."

Gregor pockets the coin and nods. "Two rooms upstairs. You know the way."

The party secures their lodging, the upstairs rooms small but warm, the beds far better than stone floors and the cold ground.

A Well-Earned Meal & Drink

Settling into a corner of the tavern, the four adventurers order a feast—roasted venison, fresh bread, and a round of ale.

As they begin their meal, the tavern buzzes with talk, a mix of mercenaries, traders, and adventurers swapping stories of the wilds.

Rumors & Opportunities in the Tavern

As they eat and drink, Aldric and his company overhear various conversations.

A merchant is complaining about missing caravans—supplies vanishing on the road, possibly due to bandits or worse.
A pair of mercenaries at a nearby table discuss a job escorting a noble’s courier through dangerous territory.
A drunk adventurer speaks of an old ruin further north of the Keep—not the one they explored, but something older, deeper in the hills.
The Keep’s garrison commander is rumored to be looking for capable fighters for an upcoming raid.

What Does Aldric Do?

Relax and Enjoy the Night. Focus on rest before seeking new work.
Listen for More Information. Try to pick up more details about the rumors.
Talk to the Merchant. Missing caravans mean potential work.
Approach the Mercenaries. Escorting a noble’s courier could be quick coin.
Investigate the Drunken Adventurer’s Tale. Another ruin could mean another treasure.
Consider Meeting with the Garrison Commander. If they need fighters, it could be an opportunity.

What’s Aldric’s next move?

You said:

Aldric will approach Gregor and inquire about someone to take a look at the sword, rune box (and gem within), and the crumbling scroll. He would like a sage, priest, or knowledgeable merchant who could study and possibly purchase the goods.

ChatGPT said:

Seeking an Expert – A Conversation with Gregor

Aldric rises from the table, leaving Dain and Roderic to their meal, while Wyllow leans back in his chair, already halfway into his second mug of ale.

Stepping to the bar, he catches Gregor’s attention with a nod.

The barkeep eyes him knowingly, wiping down a mug before speaking. “You’ve got the look of a man with something valuable—something you don’t quite understand.”

Aldric leans in slightly, keeping his voice low. “I need someone who knows things. Old things. Swords, scrolls, and relics. Someone who might be interested in a trade, too.”

Gregor grunts, setting the mug down.

“That depends. You want someone who can study what you’ve got, or someone who’ll buy it, no questions asked?”

“Both,” Aldric replies simply.

Gregor chuckles, shaking his head. “Well, that narrows it down.”

He leans in slightly, lowering his voice.

Gregor’s Suggestions:

Brother Aldwine – The Keep’s Chapel Priest.

A scholar of old texts, familiar with ancient symbols.
Might recognize the runes on the sword or the box.
Not likely to buy, but could reveal its purpose.

Orin the Sage – A Recluse in the Keep.

Knows history, magic, and forgotten lore.
Might recognize the artifacts, but he’s eccentric and unpredictable.
May want payment or a favor before helping.

Master Varek – A Wealthy Merchant.

Buys and sells rare items, no questions asked.
Less concerned with knowledge, more with profit.
Might offer a good price, but won’t explain what he’s buying.

Captain Beric – Garrison Commander.

Not a scholar, but has seen many strange relics from expeditions.
Might help identify them, but he’ll expect a favor in return.

Gregor leans back, arms crossed. “You’ve got options. Just depends what you want out of this.”

Aldric’s Choices:

Visit Brother Aldwine at the Chapel. Seek knowledge first.
Speak with Orin the Sage. Might be the most knowledgeable, but unpredictable.
Go to Master Varek, the Merchant. If gold is the goal, he’s the best bet.
Meet with Captain Beric. Might have insights, but will likely want something in return.

What does Aldric decide?

You said:

Aldric thanks Gregor, tosses him a coin, and heads back to their table. He passed the information to the company to discuss who they think they should see, and as a group determine their future path.

ChatGPT said:

Planning Their Next Move – The Company Decides

Aldric tosses a coin onto the bar, which Gregor catches mid-air with a nod. “Good luck with your little mystery,” the barkeep says, before turning to refill a drink for another patron.

Aldric returns to the table, pulling out a chair and sitting back down. The others look up from their meal, the warmth of the tavern contrasting sharply with the cold mystery of the relics they now carry.

“Gregor gave me some names,” Aldric begins, keeping his voice low enough not to draw attention. “A priest, a sage, a merchant, and a soldier. Each has their own use. Let’s decide how we handle this.”

He lays out their options clearly, watching his companions' reactions as they consider.

The Company’s Thoughts

Dain: (Practical, likes straightforward deals)

“If we just want coin, we should go to the merchant. The sooner we sell, the sooner we can move on.”
“We don’t owe these relics anything. They don’t owe us. Let’s take our cut and be done with it.”

Roderic: (Curious, but wary of risk)

“If that sword and box were sealed away, someone had a reason to do it.”
“I wouldn’t mind knowing what we’re carrying before selling it. The priest or the sage might help.”
“That said, a favor owed is still a debt. I don’t like debts.”

Wyllow: (Opportunistic, but cautious about magic)

“That sage sounds like he knows things. I like knowing things.”
“The merchant would be easy, but we’d never know if we sold something worth ten times what he paid us.”
“The priest? I dunno… last thing I need is a holy man telling me I’ve got a cursed dagger.”

Final Decision – Where to Go?

Brother Aldwine (Priest) – If they want knowledge first, especially about the runes and possible curses.
Orin the Sage – If they want expertise in ancient lore and magical artifacts.
Master Varek (Merchant) – If they want quick gold, no questions asked.
Captain Beric (Garrison Commander) – If they want a seasoned warrior’s perspective and potential work.

After some discussion, all eyes turn to Aldric. “So, what’s the call?”

What does Aldric decide?

You said:

"I say we speak to the sage," he says, finishing the last of his ale. "It is still early, shall we find this Orin the Sage? Then we will have an idea of what we are dealing with....and its real value. We can sell to the highest bidder, collect some true coin!"

ChatGPT said:

Seeking Orin the Sage – A Step into the Unknown

Dain grunts, finishing the last bite of his meal. “Fine. But if this old man starts rambling nonsense, we cut our losses and find the merchant.”

Roderic nods thoughtfully. “Knowledge is worth something. If he knows what we have, we’ll know what it’s really worth. Could be more than just gold.”

Wyllow leans back, arms crossed, a knowing smirk on his face. “Ah, Aldric, always the tactician. A fine plan, my friend—squeeze every coin we can from these dusty relics. Let’s see what this ‘sage’ has to say.”

Finding Orin the Sage

Orin is known to keep to himself, his residence tucked away from the central square of the Keep. The group gathers their belongings, leaving the warmth of the tavern behind, stepping into the mid-morning bustle of the Keep’s inner district.

Following Gregor’s directions, they move through narrow stone alleys until they come upon a squat, slanted-roof dwelling near the northern wall. Smoke drifts lazily from a small chimney, and bundles of dried herbs hang outside the door, their scents mixing in the cool air.

A wooden sign, aged and barely legible, hangs near the entrance. The carved letters read: "ORIN – SAGE & SCRIBE".

Wyllow nudges Aldric. “Friendly-looking place. You think he charges by the word?”

Dain huffs. “Let’s just get this over with.”

Roderic knocks on the door.

After a long pause, there is a shuffling of movement from inside.

Then—a sharp voice calls out.

"If you’re here for love potions, I’m fresh out. If you’re here to sell me an ‘ancient relic of untold power,’ I’ll be the judge of that. State your business!"

How Does Aldric Respond?

Be Direct – "We have artifacts that need identification."
Be Subtle – "We seek knowledge of old things. You seem like the man to ask."
Play to His Ego – "Gregor said you were the only one worth speaking to."
Test His Knowledge – "If you’re truly a sage, you’ll want to see what we’ve found."
Mention Potential Payment – "There’s coin in it if your information is good."

What approach does Aldric take?

You said:

Keep track of time in the game, not exact, but general time is good. It should currently be late afternoon in the game.

ChatGPT said:

Late Afternoon – Meeting the Sage

Aldric glances up at the sky, noting the fading light—late afternoon, edging toward evening. If they take too long here, they’ll be discussing ancient artifacts by candlelight.

Inside the sage’s home, footsteps shuffle closer. The voice remains impatient, but waiting.

Aldric steps forward, choosing his words carefully.

Response:

"Gregor said you were the only one worth speaking to."

There’s a long pause. Then, the sound of a bolt sliding back. The wooden door creaks open just enough to reveal a pair of sharp, calculating eyes set into a wrinkled face.

The man squints at Aldric, then at the group behind him. His hair is wild, streaked with gray, and his long coat is dusted with ink stains.

"Hmph." He eyes Aldric critically. "You don’t look like a merchant. You look like a man who gets blood on his boots."

He sniffs, rubbing his chin.

"Very well. If Gregor sent you, you’re not entirely a fool. Come inside—but if you touch anything, I’ll turn you into a toad."

Wyllow grins. “I like him already.”

The door swings open fully, revealing a cluttered chamber filled with books, scrolls, strange trinkets, and the unmistakable scent of aged parchment.

Inside Orin’s Study

As the group steps in, the door closes behind them with a heavy thunk. The room is dimly lit, filled with shelves of ancient tomes, glass vials, and strange metallic contraptions.

Orin moves to a desk piled high with books, sitting down with a heavy sigh.

"Alright. Show me what you have, and I’ll decide if it’s worth my time."

What Does Aldric Present First?

The Runed Sword – Let’s see what this weapon is.
The Sealed Box – The most mysterious item.
The Scroll – Ancient texts are a sage’s specialty.
All Three at Once – Let him examine everything together.

What does Aldric do?

You said:

Aldric hands over the scroll first, testing Orin. He wants to see if the old sage is on the up and up.

ChatGPT said:

Testing the Sage – The Scroll’s Secrets

Aldric reaches into his satchel, pulling forth the crumbling, timeworn scroll. He does not hand over the runed sword or the sealed box yet—this is a test.

He places the scroll on Orin’s desk, watching the sage’s reaction closely.

“We found this in an old ruin. Thought you might have the knowledge to make sense of it.”

Orin raises an eyebrow, his fingers already moving toward the parchment with a delicate touch.

“Hmph. Testing me, are you?” he mutters, half to himself. “Smart.”

He leans forward, carefully unrolling the fragile parchment, his sharp eyes scanning the ancient script. The room falls into a quiet tension as he studies the document, running his fingers over the faded ink, occasionally murmuring under his breath.

What Orin Discovers

After a few long moments, Orin exhales through his nose, shaking his head.

“This… is older than the Keep itself.” His fingers trace the faded lines of text. “A record, or a warning. This was written in an ancient form of the Old Kingdom’s script.”

Aldric leans in slightly. “Can you read it?”

Orin snorts. “Not entirely. But I can tell you this—whoever wrote this was desperate.”

He taps at a particular line, muttering a rough translation.

“…bound in shadow… chained by will… death is no prison, only a veil.”

Orin frowns, rubbing his temples.

“It speaks of something sealed away, not just buried, but intentionally locked beyond reach. This wasn’t some ordinary tomb, it was a place of containment.”

Dain crosses his arms, unimpressed. “So we found a ruin meant to keep something locked away. Great. That worked out well.”

Orin narrows his eyes at the warrior. “You don’t understand. If this is from the Old Kingdom, then whatever was sealed there was important enough to be forgotten.”

He sits back, considering. “I’d need more time to properly translate this. But whatever you pulled from that place—be careful. It wasn’t meant to be found.”

Aldric studies Orin’s expression carefully. The sage seems genuinely interested in the scroll, not trying to deceive them. He could be trusted… for now.

What’s Next?

Hand Over the Runed Sword Next – See what he makes of it.
Show Him the Sealed Box – The most dangerous mystery.
Ask Him to Keep Translating the Scroll – There may be more to uncover.
Offer to Sell the Scroll to Him – If it’s valuable, they might as well make coin.

What does Aldric do?

You said:

"And these then," he asks as he hands over the sword and the rune box.

ChatGPT said:

Revealing the Sword & The Sealed Box

Aldric reaches down, gripping the rune-covered sword first. He places it gently onto Orin’s desk, the ancient weapon glinting in the dim candlelight. Then, after a pause, he retrieves the sealed metal box, placing it beside the sword.

“And these then,” he says simply, watching the sage’s reaction.

Orin pushes the scroll aside, his gaze sharpening as he looks at the two artifacts. His fingers twitch slightly—whether from curiosity or unease, Aldric isn’t sure.

The sage studies the sword first, running his fingers along the faint carvings etched into its corroded metal. His expression darkens slightly.

“This…” he mutters. “This is no mere relic.”

He leans in, carefully inspecting the runes, tracing them with deliberate care.

What Orin Uncovers About the Sword

The runes are tied to binding and control.
It was not meant to be wielded by just anyone.
The script suggests it was crafted to fight something unnatural.
The blade’s purpose is unclear, but it may be part of a greater ritual or key.

Orin exhales through his nose. “A weapon forged for a singular purpose. This was never meant for ordinary battle.”

He looks up at Aldric. “You drew this from the ruins, didn’t you?”

Aldric nods.

Orin grunts. “Then something was meant to wield it… or be kept away by it.”

Turning to the Sealed Box

The sage adjusts his posture before addressing the box. He does not touch it immediately.

Instead, he watches it.

Dain notices. “What is it? You afraid to open it?”

Orin shoots him a glare. “Afraid? No. Wary? Always.”

He leans in, his fingers hovering over the runes. His lips press into a tight line as he mutters something in a tongue none of them recognize.

Then, finally, he speaks.

What Orin Uncovers About the Box & Gem

This was meant to contain something. It is a vessel of imprisonment.
The runes are stronger than those on the sword. This box was crafted by skilled hands, using methods no longer practiced.
The gem inside vibrates with latent energy. It is not inert—it is holding something, even now.
Opening the box without understanding its purpose is dangerous.

Orin finally leans back, exhaling deeply.

“This is dangerous.”

Wyllow scoffs. “Everything we carry is dangerous. The world is dangerous. What specifically should we be worried about?”

Orin looks directly at Aldric.

“This isn’t just treasure, warrior. This is a locked door… and you’re holding the key.”

Aldric remains silent, letting the words settle.

What Does Aldric Ask or Do Next?

“Can you open the box safely?” – Take the risk of knowing what’s inside.
“What would it take to translate all of this?” – Knowledge first, then action.
“Who would buy something like this?” – See if there’s a market for it.
“Can we destroy it?” – If it’s too dangerous to keep, should it be destroyed?
“Then what do you suggest we do with it?” – Let Orin give his best advice.

What does Aldric do?

You said:

ChatGPT said:

A Sage’s Advice – What Should Be Done?

Aldric leans forward slightly, his voice steady.

“Then what do you suggest we do with it?”

Orin meets Aldric’s gaze, his expression unreadable for a long moment. Then, he exhales and leans back, crossing his arms.

“That depends on how much trouble you want to invite into your life.”

His eyes flick between the sword and the sealed box.

“You have two options. You can leave these things buried in some forgotten corner of the world, never speak of them again, and let them fade back into history.” He gestures to the box. “Because if this was meant to contain something, that means someone made it. And if they made it, there’s a good chance that someone—or something—is still looking for it.”

He pauses, then continues in a lower voice. “Or… you can follow this mystery to its end. Find out what this sword was meant to slay. Find out what this box was meant to contain. If you do that, you might unearth something very valuable… or something best left forgotten.”

He steeples his fingers.

“If you want my advice, keep the sword. It was made to fight. If trouble comes, you’ll want it in your hands. But the box?” He shakes his head. “If I were you, I’d get rid of it. And fast.”

The Party Reacts

Dain frowns, arms crossed. “That’s all well and good, but who do we give it to? If we sell it, it’ll just end up in someone else’s hands. If we keep it, we have a target on our backs.”

Roderic nods in agreement. “Exactly. And if it’s worth something, it’s worth something to someone.”

Wyllow, surprisingly serious, taps the table. “We could find a buyer who does understand what it is. A noble collector, a powerful mage, or some shadowy cult that loves cursed relics. Someone out there wants this.”

Orin grunts. “That’s true. You could sell it to the right people for a fortune. But be warned—those who trade in such things rarely deal cleanly.”

Options Before Aldric & The Party

Find a Buyer & Sell the Box – If it’s valuable, they might as well profit.
Hide It Somewhere Safe – Bury it where no one will find it.
Destroy It – If it’s a prison, breaking it might not be wise… but it might be necessary.
Seek Out More Knowledge – There may be others who know more about what they’ve found.
Keep It & See What Happens – If something is searching for it, they’ll find out soon enough.

Orin leans back, watching them carefully. “Whatever you choose, do it soon. Some relics do not like to be kept waiting.”

What does Aldric decide?

You said:

Aldric turns to his companions. "Let us leave this parchment with Orin, if he would translate the rest for us, we would be grateful. The chest I suggest goes to the priest for safe keeping until we can learn more...hopefully from the translation of the scroll." He nods to Orin and adds. "The sword, one of you shall keep. It was made for fighting and with luck, it will keep fighting until it's true nature is revealed to us." He looks at his companions," Agreed?"

ChatGPT said:

Aldric’s Plan – The Group Decides

Orin nods at the decision regarding the scroll. "I’ll translate what I can, though it’ll take time. These old texts aren’t meant to be rushed."

He carefully rolls the parchment back up, securing it among the stacks of his desk.

“Come back in a few days. I should have more for you then.”

The Company’s Response

Dain crosses his arms. "The chest going to the priest is a good idea. I don’t trust it, and I don’t trust people who would want it."

Roderic nods. "Agreed. Let the holy man deal with whatever’s inside. If it was meant to be sealed, best keep it that way."

Wyllow, however, looks amused. “Aye, fine, fine, let’s dump the cursed box on a man of faith. That’s one way to handle it.”

Then, Aldric brings up the sword.

A brief silence falls over the group as each man considers the weight of the responsibility.

Who should wield it?

Dain grunts, looking at the blade. "It’s a weapon. A fighter should carry it. I’ll take it if no one else will."

Roderic tilts his head. "It was meant for something specific. If we don’t know what, then wielding it comes with risks."

Wyllow raises his hands in mock surrender. "Oh, don’t look at me. I deal in daggers, not grand swords of destiny."

The decision comes down to Aldric, Dain, or Roderic.

Who Should Carry the Runed Sword?

Aldric – The party leader, already a skilled swordsman.
Dain – The hard-hitting warrior, most practical in battle.
Roderic – The most tactical, though more spear-focused.
Hold Onto It Until They Know More – No one wields it yet.

Aldric has laid out the plan—but who takes the blade?

You said:

"Dain, the blade is yours, I have my father's sword and care not for another," he scratches his chin. "Off to meet this holy man then."

ChatGPT said:

Memory updated

The Sword’s New Wielder – Dain Accepts the Blade

Dain grips the hilt of the runed sword, testing its weight. The blade is old, but balanced, made for something beyond common battle.

He gives a short nod. “Fine by me. If something needs cutting down, I’ll see to it.”

Wyllow grins. “Just don’t start glowing or speaking in tongues. I’d rather not deal with possessed swords.”

Dain snorts. “If the damn thing starts whispering, I’ll throw it in the nearest river.”

Aldric gives one last look at the sage. “We’ll return for the translation.”

Orin waves a hand dismissively. “Yes, yes, I’ll be here. If the priest tells you to burn that box, I suggest you listen.”

With that, the company gathers their belongings and leaves Orin’s cluttered chamber, stepping back into the late afternoon air of the Keep.

To the Chapel – Seeking Brother Aldwine

The chapel sits near the Keep’s inner walls, its stone structure simple but sturdy, its wooden doors worn from years of service. The ringing of a small bell echoes faintly from within, and the scent of burning incense drifts through the air.

As they step inside, they find a dimly lit sanctuary, where a few faithful kneel in quiet prayer. The altar at the far end is adorned with a simple iron-bound tome and a hanging lantern, its light flickering with each passing breeze.

A man in a humble gray robe, balding with streaks of white in his beard, turns to regard the newcomers. His deep-set eyes are kind, but sharp, taking in Aldric and his companions with measured curiosity.

“Travelers,” he says, his voice calm and steady. “What brings you to the house of the Divine?”

Aldric steps forward, the sealed box still securely in Wyllow’s satchel.

“Brother Aldwine, we need your help.”

The priest studies them, his gaze lingering on the satchel. He can already sense something is amiss.

“Then speak, my sons. What troubles you?”

How Does Aldric Approach This?

Be Direct – “We recovered something old and dangerous. We need you to keep it safe.”
Test His Knowledge First – “What do you know of ancient bindings?”
Be Subtle – “We found a relic we wish to entrust to the Church.”
Gauge His Reaction – “We carry a burden, but we do not yet know its weight.”

How does Aldric explain their purpose?

You said:

"We found a relic we wish to entrust to the Church, until such time as we can discover a way to destroy it," he bows his head slightly in reverence. "At this time we know only that the relic is dangerous and want to ensure it is safely hidden away. Can we trust the church to secure it until we can uncover the knowledge?"

ChatGPT said:

Memory updated

Entrusting the Church – A Sacred Burden

Brother Aldwine listens intently, his gaze steady as Aldric speaks.

When the warrior bows his head in reverence, the priest inclines his own slightly in return, a mark of mutual respect.

At the mention of a dangerous relic, Aldwine’s expression tightens, though he does not seem surprised.

“The Church has safeguarded many burdens over the years,” he says, stepping forward. “And we do not take such matters lightly.”

He gestures toward a side chamber off the main sanctuary. “Come with me.”

The Reliquary – A Place for the Sealed Box

The party follows Brother Aldwine through a small arched doorway, descending a narrow spiral stair into a stone chamber below the chapel.

It is not a grand vault, but a simple and secure reliquary, where aged books and artifacts rest upon shelves, wrapped in cloth or bound in iron chains.

The priest stops before a heavy wooden chest, its lock secured with both iron and silver bindings.

“Place the relic here.” His voice is calm, but there is a note of gravity.

Wyllow pulls the sealed box from his satchel, giving it one last glance before handing it over. “Feels like we’re leaving behind a storm before it breaks,” he mutters.

Brother Aldwine places the box inside the chest, closing the heavy lid with care. He retrieves a small vial of clear oil from a shelf, pressing his fingers together in prayer before tracing a symbol over the lock.

The air feels lighter—or perhaps, less heavy.

Aldwine’s Warning & Promise

Turning back to Aldric, the priest meets his gaze.

“This will remain here, under the eyes of the Divine, until you return with the knowledge you seek.”

His voice grows more solemn.

“But understand this, my son—if what you say is true, then this relic was not meant to be found. And if it was found by you, it may already be calling to others.”

Dain grunts. “So you’re saying we should expect trouble?”

Aldwine nods. “That, I cannot say. But relics of power do not remain untouched forever. If it was sealed away once, then something had cause to do so.”

“Let us pray that whatever hands built this prison are not the same hands that come to unmake it.”

The Box is Now Secure – What’s Next?

With the sealed relic entrusted to the Church, the group has cleared one burden from their hands—but new questions remain.

The scroll is being translated by Orin the Sage, and the runed sword remains with Dain, its purpose still unknown.

The day is fading into early evening—soon, the Keep will become quieter, the shops closing, and the tavern filling with nighttime travelers, traders, and mercenaries.

Aldric’s Next Move:

Return to the Tavern & Rest – The day has been long, and they can plan their next steps in the morning.
Seek Out More Information on the Keep’s History – Perhaps someone else knows of past events tied to these relics.
Look for Work or Coin – They still have plenty of fight left in them, and danger always brings wealth.
Check in with the Garrison – Captain Beric may have word of trouble beyond the Keep’s walls.

What does Aldric decide?

You said:

"I need a soft bed to rest my head, now heavy with worry," he steps towards the tavern. "Tomorrow I wish to return to the watchtower and venture into it's depths again. See if we can learn more before Orin finishes his translation. If we are lucky, we may yet find more gold beneath its walls." He stops and looks at each of his companions. "Will you join me?"

ChatGPT said:

Memory updated

Aldric’s Proposal – Back to the Watchtower

Dain cracks his knuckles, smirking. “I’m always up for more treasure. If that place had one hidden chamber, it might have more.”

Roderic leans on his spear, considering. “We’re making a habit of stirring up old ghosts, but… aye, I’ll go. Better to know what we’re dealing with than wait for trouble to find us.”

Wyllow scoffs, taking a few light steps ahead. “Ah, yes, let’s willingly walk back into a place full of things that want to kill us. What a brilliant idea.”

Then, with a grin, he tosses a coin in the air and catches it. “But gold is gold, and if there’s more to be found, I’ll be there to help spend it.”

The company is set on their course—tomorrow, they return to the ruins.

A Night at the Tavern – Rest Before the Road

As the tavern doors swing open, the familiar warmth of firelight and ale welcomes them back. The common room is livelier than before, filled with travelers, merchants, and mercenaries settling in for the evening.

Gregor grunts in acknowledgment from behind the bar. “Back again? You lot look like you could use stronger drink and softer beds.”

Wyllow tosses him a coin. “You’re a man of wisdom, Gregor.”

Rooms are secured, drinks are poured, and for the first time in a long while, the group allows themselves to relax, if only for a few hours.

Tomorrow, the depths of the watchtower await.