“Perhaps you can help me,” you ask the bespectacled savant staring at a miniature globe with a string tied around its middle. “Will Islandia be destroyed, or are we safe here?” The Scientist thinks momentarily, then shakes his head. “I’m sorry,” he says, “but I’m completely wrapped up in my theoretical studies of the planet…
View The Scientist »Treasure Hunts
Out of the Frying Pan
Thanks to your plan, the cannibal pirates select the 15 golems for roasting and quickly die of food poisoning. The scholars offer their extreme gratitude. “Learned traveler, you have our undying thanks. If only we had some wealth with which to reward you. But still, take our advice and remember what saved you—a sorcerer’s hex….
View Out of the Frying Pan »The Sculptor
You come upon an artisan busily applying hammer and chisel to a statue of a matronly woman. “Who’s the statue of?” you ask. “Don’t know entirely,” answers the Sculptor, pointing to the inscription at the statue’s base: ——— Brown, 1943–1994 “But what’s it mean?” you say perplexedly. The Sculptor shakes his head. “It means a…
View The Sculptor »Queenly Gratitude
“Estimable thinker,” the Queen addresses you. “Twice today you have rendered us valuable service. How may we repay you?” “Well,” you say. “I am trying to find out the truth behind these rumors of destruction. Have you any knowledge of Islandia’s fate?” The Queen frowns. “Our kingdom is, of course, secure. It shall continue unabated…
View Queenly Gratitude »The Shelter
You approach a pleasant manor situated on well-cultivated grounds. One man who seems to be in charge approaches you, and you explain your fears about the impending destruction of Islandia. “I see,” he remarks. “Yes, you’re not the first with those fears. Won’t you follow me?” He takes you into the manor and shows you…
View The Shelter »The Harbor
Stranded on the shore here are the remains of nearly a hundred ships. As you stare in wonder at the haunting sight, rough hands grab you from behind. Before you can say “I’ve been captured by pirates!”, you’ve been captured by pirates. “Haw!” They cackle. “Another victim for the sacrifice to Jolly Roger, Lord of…
View The Harbor »The Sisters’ Thanks
The sisters are, obviously, overjoyed at their rescue. “We cannot thank you enough,” they cry, “But as a reward, we ask you to remember us. Remember: two sister.” They leave to return to their homes.
View The Sisters’ Thanks »Blackbeard’s Map
Ballpeen thanks you profusely for his rescue and apologizes that most of the Blackbeard memorabilia has been sent away for appraisal. Of course I had to keep the map here. As you can see, it’s something special.” What you see is not what you expected. The map apparently is painted directly on a slab of…
View Blackbeard’s Map »Medical Center Metro Station
The station is apparently undergoing some renovation. In answer to your questions, the workers suggest you talk to the Chief Engineer. Tiles? Oh yes, the main entrance floor was covered with a tiled mosaic that was taken from the original building on this site. We’ve just removed the tiles for repair. You’re welcome to look…
View Medical Center Metro Station »Do Some Research on Blackbeard
You head to The Basil E. Frankweiler Research Service, a local think-tank with extensive information on all topics. The librarian is an old friend of yours, and you hope to bypass the normal red tape. Your timing is a little off. “You want information on Blackbeard? I’m sure we’ve got a decent bio on him…
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