Brannty

A parchment hangs near cloud temple. "I am currently finishing up a larger contract, but at times am lacking resources to continue. Therefore, I am looking for smaller projects to supplement my schedule with. I am skilled in the design and construction of homes, inns, defensive structures, boats, bridges, etc. If you have a construction need, I will be able to meet it, and do so in top-notch fashion. Please leave a note with an address so I may send you a bird. We can then set up a meeting time and place to discuss your need." The note is unsigned, but is emblazoned with the sign of a hammer. Below the note hangs a few sketches of the Architect's work.

A weathered figure emerges from the dimly lit entrance to the catacombs. From his belt hangs a variety of chisels, and in his hand he clutches a hammer that closely resembles the markings on his attire. Once outside the threshold, he stops to brush a few small stone chips from his shoulders, and pulls a rolled up parchment from his pocket. He wedges the paper into a crack in the stone work, making sure that it is visible to any passerby. After doing so, he saunters off toward his room for a well deserved nap. As you pass the entrance, you notice the note. Upon unfurling it, you read the following message: "To King Indago and his Council, It has been sometime since we last spoke of the progress on the catacombs. At the time of my writing this, several wings have been completed and are ready to serve as a resting place for your brethren. I would ask that someone meet with me to confirm that they are in line with Dwarven tradition. My previous experience in building crypts has been for my own Order. Although there was not really any ritual in our burial practices, we did observe some traditions such as using smooth stone to construct the interior walls of the tomb itself. All Dwarven brothers of the order were laid to rest in this fashion, so I have used it as a reference point during my current work. Please note that this is something I can make adjustments to if required. At the current moment, I have found myself at a lack for resources. I am in need of wood, smooth stone, and torches. If possible, a stock of coal would allow me to be very self sufficient as I have years of experience smelting cobblestone into a workable state. These items will allow me to continue on the project, and within several days time, I will have several other wings of the catacombs available for your use. Feel free to leave the materials in either of the chests I have in the area. Both can be found in the main entrance... the first right inside the main threshold, and the second just down the first set of stairs. I believe it also is important to note that during the excavation process, I have encountered several small pockets of monsters. I do not believe there is any major concern in this, as it is typical, but I might recommend having members of the Legion regularly patrol the area in case more have found their way into the halls. I thank you again for the opportunity to apply my craft. It has been sometime since I have been able to tackle a large project due to my travels, and I relish the the chance to once again do so. You and your people have been very hospitable, and I am thankful for this. I will be around the hold, so please find me when you have time to discuss the project further. - Brannty Brunwin"

*You step onto the hardwood of the dock. Finally, after such a long journey, you have made it to this island of refuge. As you make your way up with wooden walkway toward town, the symbol of the hammer catches your eye. It is emblazoned on a note nailed to a dock post, you begin to read... "Brothers, If you are reading this you have no doubt made the trip safely, and I thank The Builder for that. As you know, the ship I was on became separated from the main fleet during a storm. We were set adrift, and stayed that way for some time. In fact, I lost track of how long it actually was. Men began to succumb to hunger. One by one we lost them until, it was just I that remained. I came to terms with my situation, and began to let myself go. As I faded off, I was startled back to reality by a large crash. Somehow, by the grace of The Builder, my ship had run aground on this new island. As I made my way onto land, a passing stranger took note of my condition and offered me food and drink. I gladly accepted and soon had regained my strength. Once I was able, I set off on foot looking for the rest of you. It soon became apparent that I may be the first here. Thankfully, during my travel, I came across the Dwarven settlement, where I was welcomed with the hospitality that the Dwarves are so famous for. I have since been residing within their mountain keep, and continuing my search for the rest of you. After reading this, please send a bird to me... I pray that you all have made it in better fashion than myself. - Brannty Brunwin"

As you sit at the docks, taking in the view of the grand ships, a stoic figure makes his way past you. He is wrapped in a red and white, hooded cloak with the symbol of a hammer on the back. The man comes to a stop, unrolls a small parchment, and proceeds to nail it to one of the many wooden poles lining the docks. After doing so, he heads off toward town. Your curiosity is peaked, and as soon as he is out of site, you make your way to the note... "Due to some unfortunate circumstances, I am currently without a place to lay my head. If anyone would be willing to take a fellow traveler in, I would be happy to offer my services in return. As an advisor to the High Priest of the Hammerite Order, I have obtained many specific skills that could be of use to a growing community. My first priority was to oversee the diplomatic matters of the Order, however I also had a hand in the construction of the island. This included a large role in the building of the fabled Ironrock Keep. If you feel I would be of any service to you, you may find me at the local inn. I would be happy to speak more on a possible arrangement. - Brannty Brunwin"

Stone grinds on stone as the hidden stairway slowly reveals itself. Brannty emerges up the stairs from the Engineering shop deep within the earth. He makes his way around Ironstone Keep, and towards the Cathedral build site. As he walks through the large open doors, he catches the tail end of a conversation between Elder N'duvius and Lock'eed "Nope, tis how the builder showed me in my dreams" Lock'eed says to N'duvius not noticing Brannty's entrance. "Aye, you and your dreams. I wish I had dreams to cover up my botched improvisations," Brannty says with a chuckle. "What is this word of the tomes erasing themselves? I just received this knowledge from one of the novices and came straight here. You don't think..." Brannty shudders at the thought, "the Void is returning, do you?" Brannty stares at the intricate stonework of the floor, his mind being flooded with thoughts. Although he did not directly encounter the Void, he had studied it intently. The histories told of a past world, swallowed up by corruption and emptiness. The Hammerite Order had survived, but many members had perished... consumed by the darkness. "If this truly happening... what are we to do? Should we not prepare in some manner?"

Completely agree. Adds way more to the way you play a the game. It's exciting being on your toes when traveling at night, knowing that around the next corner might be a sprinting zombie. Also, as much as I wasn't a fan when they were implemented, i've really grown to love the bandage concept. Much more realistic and adds the possibility of making a living through herbalism.

*A note is attached to the original. I would suggest looking into The Hammerites. ((Check the guilds section))

((Thanks Gabriel, stellar job.))

*Brannty stands on the temple steps addressing his brothers. "While High Priest Lock'eed is laid up from his itching herb encounter, I want to stress that progress must continue to move forward. Most of you should have projects you are handling, and it is my hope that we can have these completed by the time Lock'eed returns from his sick leave. If there is anyone without a task at the moment, especially the new pledges, please speak to me and I will assign you one. Furthermore, if there are any issues or hold ups with current builds, please report them to me so we may sort out the problem. May The Builder guide your hammers." *With this, the members disperse to finish their respective projects.

*A note hangs from a pillar in the Sanctuary. It rustles lightly in the breeze. Asulon! Our Order seeks a General of the Guard. We are looking for a master strategist, a battle tested veteran with a mind to go along with their weapon. What we do not seek is a blood thirsty warmonger, but rather a level headed military man who understands the concept of protection over conquest. A knowledge of weapon technology such as ballistas, trebuchets, or cannons is also desired. Someone who is already in command of a small fighting force that would be willing to follow them into the Order would be the ideal candidate. If you believe this is you, leave a note below. Please include the following information: Name: Age: Leadership Qualifications: Weapon Specialties ((skill lvl)): If we feel that you are the right person for the job we will be in touch. - The Hammerite Order

*Smiles as he reads Halvard's note "Ironrock will benefit greatly from having its lead architect back."

Thanks for all the work on this. Any chance we could get the Wiki updated with the new skills information?

*A notice is nailed over Locke's warning. - Citizens of Ironrock - It has come to our attention that the mines are experiencing an elevated level of activity. Monsters have been running rampant. Because of this, we have decided to install new protocol for the miners' safety. Until further notice, all mining shifts are to be accompanied by a member of the town guard. The ratio of miners to guard shall be set at 5:1. We will not allow these abominations to deter our momentum. In a non related matter. All magma pools are to be left as found. We are current in the process of developing a safe and secure way to transport magma to our furnaces as we have recently found it to be very effective in the smelting process. Specific members of the mining team are being trained on the process, and are the only ones who should be handling the transportation. We are pleased with the recent progress on the city. There is no doubt the Master Builder smiles upon every brick we have laid. Continue to work with diligence knowing that our works go beyond us all. - The High Council