The Adventure

Apr 29, 2025 10:53 pm
IC stuff goes here.
Apr 29, 2025 11:25 pm
You're in Rackon's Bluff, a small settlement of roughly 200 souls in the southern part of the Deep Wilds. As the name implies, the village sits on a small hill, surrounded by a palisade wall. As with most places in the Ironlands, the buildings are simple wooden structures with thatched roofs.

The village is named after Rackon Thalken, a legendary Ironsworn...and infamous womanizer. It's said he had twenty children from six different women, but nobody knows for sure; the numbers change depending on who's telling the tale.

After Rackon retired from adventuring, he decided to found a small settlement with his "family." Though the quarrels between all involved were as legendary as Rackon himself (and sons, daughters, and lovers frequently departed in a rage), the settlement held together. More people joined them. Now, centuries later, the Bluff is well-established.

Though there are a few tidy plots of farmland at the base of the hill, the forest presses close. Hunting and gathering are primarily how the villagers sustain themselves. Occasionally someone will stumble upon something interesting in the wilds, and travel to other villages to barter it, but generally there isn't much trade.

It's the end of autumn, and the weather is still cool. But winter is coming. Snowstorms, biting winds, and bone-chilling temperatures will be here soon enough.

You sit in the home of Caldus Thalken, a distant descendant of Rackon. He's the village elder, as this title traditionally goes to the eldest Thalken, male or female. Like Rackon, he's a former Ironsworn, now retired.

Though white-haired and a bit stooped, veins bulge on his hands and forearms, and his gaze is penetrating. This is a man who's seen much, and who would still be a dangerous foe in battle, were he pressed into action.

His two-room home is tidy and Spartan. A fire crackles in the hearth. Perhaps surprisingly, you see few trophies from his life of adventuring. The only truly eye-catching objects are a sword hanging above the fireplace, some green gems inlaid in its pommel, and a humanoid skull hanging right above that.
[ +- ] Image
Apr 29, 2025 11:31 pm
"Thank you for coming, Ironsworn. Please, help yourself."

He gestures to the table he's sitting at. On it sit two wooden pitchers, along with two cups: one pitcher has ale, the other spring water. There's also a loaf of bread, some cheese, and some roast venison.

"I'll get to the point. We sit within the Wilds, so we know there will always be strange beasts and such to deal with. But a new threat has arisen, one that concerns even an old adventurer like myself."

"You know of the Broken, the pitiful, feral people who populated these lands before we arrived? A number of them live to the southeast of the Bluff. Usually, they're little more than nuisances, content to gnaw on bones or claw at each other. A show of force from us when they act up, and they usually scurry back into the deep shadows of the woods."

"But now something emboldens them. Our hunters and scouts report seeing a strange red gleaming in their eyes on occasion; when that red is present, the Broken attack with tremendous ferocity, and usually do not stop until either they or their opponents are slain."

"Not only that, woodland creatures, even usually harmless ones, have gone red-eyed and attacked us. Just yesterday, a pack of hunters was attacked by rabbits, of all things. One even lost an eye, so quick and nimble are those animals."

"This all started two weeks ago. Since then, five have been killed, and eight maimed. This is unacceptable! We will have retribution."

"Both my heart and my head tell me some fell force is behind this. Find them, kill them. No quarter. They don't deserve mercy. If this isn't controlled, though, and is rather some random natural occurrence...well, we'll cross that bridge if we come to it."

"I suggest you head southeast, where the Broken traditionally reside; we've seen little red-eye activity from any other direction."

He gazes wistfully at the sword and skull, then sighs.

"I wish I could go with you, but those days are past. My responsibility lies here."

"Will you help us, Ironsworn? The Bluff would be indebted to you, until the end of your days."
Apr 30, 2025 9:09 pm
Gevin enters the room and greets elder Caldus. He is an average sized man in his early 30s and is wearing a brown leather jerkin, black cloth pants and a leather cap, which he takes off out of respect. His weapons and shield were just outside the door, only a dagger adorns his belt. When he is offered a drink, he walks to the table. Picks up the pitcher of ale, fills a cup halfway and then adds water until full, as is the custom of his village. Then he sits down on a stool and listens to what the elder has to say as he sips the drink.

"That sounds serious, Elder." He says after hearing the story. "I too have heard the tales of the broken. They can be tricky to deal with when they ambush you, but as you say should be easily repelled." He strokes his beard. "These red eyes do indeed make me think of foul magics." He takes a minute to consider his options.

"Very well." He continues. "I will head southeast then at first light tomorrow. I will take the time until then to prepare for the journey." He finishes his drink, gets up and kneels in front of Elder Caldus. With a fist pressed against his chest he says "Elder. I vow to get to the bottom of this and if within my power, put an end to it."
OOC:
I think I share a bond with this elder, as we are of the same descent.

Rolls

Swear a vow - (1d6+2+1, 1d10, 1d10)

1d6+2+1 : (6) + 3 = 9

1d10 : (7) = 7

1d10 : (4) = 4

Apr 30, 2025 9:31 pm
OOC:
Yes, we'll say you have a bond with Caldus. But shouldn't the roll be 8 instead of 9, since your Heart is 1? Regardless, it's still a strong hit, so you're emboldened and ready to adventure!
Caldus nods solemnly as he hears your vow. Then he puts his hands on your shoulders and gives them a tight squeeze.

"Rise, Gevin. The iron has tasted your promise, and the spirits and gods also bear witness. May your path be true, and may you not falter when the shadows gather. Know this: such a vow is not made lightly, nor will its weight lessen until it is fulfilled… or broken."

He then relaxes a bit, and offers you a warm smile.

"Since you are my kin, my heart feels lighter knowing you are undertaking this quest. It will be difficult, I feel, but the descendants of Rackon aren't known for slothfulness or cowardice."

But now he lets out a chuckle.

"Well, there are some exceptions, as you well know...but let's not get into that."

And so Gevin Obrek swears an iron vow, and thus begins the quest. What will he do now?
Apr 30, 2025 9:35 pm
OOC:
You're right, I used wits instead. My mistake! Still the same result, luckily. :D
Apr 30, 2025 10:45 pm
Gevin takes advantage of the time he has to tell his family and a few friends he is leaving for a while and to get ready for the journey tomorrow. Food, water, a warm cloak, ... . Things to survive the harsh incoming weather for multiple days. Then he heads home to get some rest. He will need it!
OOC:
I'm not sure if you want me to ask questions that I think new players would have. But in this case, they would probably ask "How much money do I have and what does survival gear cost?"
He awakes to the sound of the rooster's cock-a-doodle-doo just before sunrise. The perfect time to pack up and head out. He knows where to go. Southeast, about half a day's walk away is a clearing that is often used as a meet-up spot for the hunters of the village. From there he will have to look for a trail or any signs of activity. Perhaps he'll be lucky enough to meet someone along the way to talk to.

But those are things he will figure out later. Now it's time to go.
OOC:
Do I roll for the journey here already? Or would that start from the clearing I'm already familiar with?
Apr 30, 2025 11:59 pm
OOC:
Your supply is already at +5, and Ironsworn rules state that bartering is usually the primary form of trade. I suppose you could have some silver pieces and trinkets, but supply is supposed to be more abstract compared to something like D&D. I'd say the Secure an Advantage move is your best bet. How have you handled an issue like this in your games?

Yes, your journey starts here, so roll Undertake a Journey when ready!
May 1, 2025 11:45 pm
OOC:
The way I usually play it is, my character has everything that would be reasonable. Here you could say the elder supplied some currency or barter to trade with for your journey
or that Gevin has enough to get basic supplies. Anything special may require a roll. Either secure advantage or sojourn.

If you're unsure wether the character has enough money or stuff to trade, Delve also has a "check your gear" move. That way you can roll to see if you could do it without a more difficult route.
https://i.imgur.com/HwfYzlh.png

It kinda depends wether you want to risk a potential pay the price for a mechanical advantage.
In this case, I just said those things as flavor :) no need for any real advantage. :)
With a fresh body and mind, Gevin sets off.

Rolls

Undertake a Journey (wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)

1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7

1d10 : (8) = 8

1d10 : (5) = 5

May 2, 2025 9:28 pm
OOC:
I'll also give you +1, since you share a bond with this community. But you still only beat one of the challenge dice, so a weak hit.
Gevin sets off at a good pace. The forest is filled with chirps, squawks, and chatters, but luckily none of the animals hinder him. He also doesn't see any sign of the Broken.

However, the wind switches after a bit, bringing in warmer air. Gevin has to drink more from his waterskin than anticipated, and there are only a few drops left when he arrives at his destination.
OOC:
You reach a waypoint (the clearing, I believe) and mark 3 progress for the journey. However, the weak hit means you lose 1 supply.

For supply: yes, an Ironsworn would have reasonable adventuring gear. I like that this game reduces the emphasis on gear/supply, so players aren't worrying about rations or whatever.

I also like any "supply flavor," as long as it doesn't bleed over to OP mechanical benefits. I know players like to min/max, but those poor GMs (me!) have to challenge them SOMEHOW. 😎
May 2, 2025 11:02 pm
OOC:
Thnx. I wasn't sure about the bond, so didn't mention it :)

You'll find I'm not much of a min/maxer. I just enjoy the stories, even if it ends in death.
Seems like we're on the same page for that kinda stuf. Awesome.

I've added a journey on my char sheet and marked 3 progress.
Gevin spots the clearing up ahead between the trees. He's not completely sure there's a spring nearby to refill his water skin, but perhaps one the village foragers will be there too. They would surely know the way.
OOC:
I think a new player would be like. "I go to the clearing what do I see?" And leave the rest to you. But I thought it might be useful to give you a hint as to what I expected to find. Feel free to ignore that and go in a different direction though.
May 3, 2025 7:41 pm
Quote:
I think a new player would be like. "I go to the clearing what do I see?" And leave the rest to you. But I thought it might be useful to give you a hint as to what I expected to find. Feel free to ignore that and go in a different direction though.
OOC:
Yeah, that's what I'm trying to figure out how to handle. As I mentioned in the OOC chat, for a strong hit, and any partial success portion of a weak hit, I would give the player reasonable agency to advance the narrative. So yes, they could find a spring in this instance, or meet a fellow villager. But that can get confusing, especially when IMO most people are used to a fully DM-driven narrative. I'm already seeing that co-op might be the best option for this system.
There is a small spring nearby, as well as a hidden cache of water (both waterskins and a few barrels), in case something befouls the spring.

However, you first notice a red-haired woman sitting on a log, her right leg splayed out in front of her. The leg is bandaged at the thigh; you notice some blood has seeped through. The woman doesn't seem to be in critical condition, though, as she waves at you pleasantly as you get closer.

Once you're within earshot, the woman addresses you....
[ +- ] Image
May 3, 2025 7:56 pm
You now see this is Etta Karl, a hunter from your village. Etta is an excellent shot with a bow, and has won many a bet from men who underestimate her ability. While dedicated to the Bluff, she's also a bit of a wild card; for example, she occasionally paints her face with temporary tattoos, sometimes even writing provocative words on her flesh. Her tattoos now are smeared, evidently from some sort of exertion.

"Ho there, Gevin! What brings you out here? Maybe looking for me? How sweet! I always knew you had a soft spot for feisty redheads!"

She points to her injured leg and shakes her head.

"Was out here having a look-see, maybe bag some small game if I could. Then, outta nowhere, a hawk swooped down on me! Red eyes, of course. Talons and beak tryin' to rip me to shreds. Bow was useless close range, so I hadda use me knife. Got the bastard, but not before he got me."


She now reaches behind her and lifts up the slashed and bloodied remains of the hawk. After letting you gaze at it for a moment, she tosses it contemptuously aside.

"I'm fine, can walk back to the Bluff, no problem. Just needed to patch myself up. But watch yourself, Gevin, if you're plannin' on stayin' out here. You never can tell when one o' them red-eyes will pop up and try'n end ya."
May 3, 2025 10:44 pm
Gevin was happy to see a familiar face. Though less happy to see her injured. "Good morrow, Etta. He greets her. Before he can ask what happened she's already explaining. He lets her finish as he sits near her on a rock.

"These things are seriously dangerous, aren't they?" He asks, already knowing the answer. Inside his head the thoughts start to race. Am I really the right person for this?

But he has to press on and fullfil his vow. He fills his water skin and gets ready to continue. "It just so happens I'm here to find out what exactly is going on." He looks at her leg. "I could use a bow at my back, if you won't slow me down." That last part he says with a teasing grin and wink.

"Which direction from here were you attacked?" While waiting for an answer, Gevin attempts to inspect the bird carcass. Perhaps there is a clue to be found.
May 3, 2025 10:48 pm
OOC:
From what I've seen on the internet, this game is either played coop, or with a guide who only facilitates the play. Giving the players ideas to create their own story. While it's possible to use it for a premade campagne, I think you could find a system that does that better.

That being said, so far I'm enjoying the test run. :)
May 3, 2025 11:19 pm
OOC:
I'm actually improv-ing this quest, at least to an extent. I have some story beats in mind, and a Big Bad, but you can push the story in different directions. For example, you created the clearing and the spring, so it made sense for me to make a character for you to meet, since the clearing would be frequently used by the village.

But again, the Controlling Hand of the GM™ can probably still be felt.

What do you think about switching to co-op? I can play Etta and join you. Then each of us can unleash our creativity. And since we're both familiar with the system, we can hash out any mechanics issues.

I know it's early to be switcheroo-ing, but I already have enough data to realize that even a "hands-off" GM feels awkward. As you note, there are better systems for GM-driven play.
May 4, 2025 6:37 am
OOC:
I think you're doing a great job so far.
If you want to play Etta, by all means join me :D
I'm happy to switch it up. It's your test run after all! Explore to your desire.
May 4, 2025 6:44 pm
OOC:
Cool. 😎

I'll join you then. Lemme get all the stuff set up.

For a vow, the rules state one person should do the actual move, with others using the Aid Your Ally move if they want. But Etta wasn't with you when you took your oath, so I'd like her to make her own vow. It'll have the same mechanics as yours, and she'll also be on the same Undertake a Journey as you. Plus, it'll make sense narratively, as you'll see shortly.

Also, I think it's fair to start her at 4 health instead of 5, due to her injury.
May 4, 2025 7:42 pm
It takes a moment for the full import of Gevin's words to sink in. When they do, her face flushes to nearly match her hair.

"Wait a minute...you took an Iron Vow?!"

Dammit! Why him, and not me? But...what was stopping me! Nothing!

As she broods, she points to the west.

"Hawk attacked me only about 50 yards from here."

More brooding. She massages her leg gently. Looks at her bow. Reaches behind her to feel the fletching of her arrows.

"So, Gevin...do you truly want my help? No teasing a poor wounded lass, now."
May 4, 2025 8:35 pm
OOC:
All sounds perfectly reasonable to me.
I seem to remember reading somewhere that even the creator says the rules should never hinder the story. If it makes sense to do something, do it.

An example that was used was; you start a journey, but half way there, you find a person who knows the way. If they want to be your guide then you can simply reach your destination without rolling. :) I quite liked that fact and it makes sense.
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