Side Quests: The Red Tower

Side Quests are from The Red Tower are optional quests given by Pinot. They are unlocked by progressing through the main storyline and reaching affection milestones. They're the source of rare and unique items and will on rare occasions unlock Chance Machines or other side quests. Quest guides have been condensed for readability. Full transcripts are available at each section.

Warning

This page contains spoilers for the Dappervolk story, pets, and/or lore.

A Fresh Start

Quest Information
Speak With	Pinot
Prerequisites	Seasonal Quest: The Witches Crescendo
Description	"You check on Pinot's part of the woods, only to find it greatly changed."'

Full Transcript
As you make your way back into what was dramatically named the Stranger's Mire, you notice that this patch of the woods has remarkably quieted down. No longer are Barclay, Mycel, and Glume's plants battling for supremacy and there are only occasional rather harmless looking red magic wisps floating here and there. You avoid them anyways just in case. In the heart of the woods, you come to a clearing at the foot of a tall stone tower. You don't remember seeing this here before but it looks solid as can be, with red light glowing from within the windows and red lined smoke coming from the chimneys. Someone's home and you have an idea of who it could be. a) Knock. You raise your hand tentatively to knock on the stone door of the tower, but before you can do this, a familiar caw sounds behind you. You turn around to find Pinot the crow looking back at you. a) Hello there. b) I knew it was your tower! b) Try to sneak in. You try to sneak around the back of the tower, looking for a side entrance but before you can get past the front door, a loud caw stops you in your tracks. You whip around to find the familiar crow looking at you. a) Oh, h-hello. b) I knew it was your tower! Pinot: You came to visit! Very nice. Do you like what I've done with the place? I built this place brick by brick after my little house got destroyed... with a little bit of magical assistance of course. Heh heh. a) It looks like a lot of magical assistance. Pinot: Well, I am an expert witch after all. Anyways, like I promised the residents of the forest, I've decided to lay down some roots here so to speak and contribute to society... and whatnot. b) It looks cool, I like it. Pinot: Thanks! In any case, like I promised the residents of the forest, I've decided to lay down some roots here so to speak and contribute to society... and whatnot. Maybe I'll find a purpose here, aimlessly wandering after graduation wasn't the life I had in mind... Pinot: Maybe I'll find a purpose here, aimlessly wandering after graduation wasn't the life I had in mind... Pinot awkwardly fiddles with the feather of a quill from his coat pocket before realizing something. Pinot: Oh right! I've set up a shop on the first floor of my tower, so you can come visit any time and trade with me. I'm still working on controlling my crimson magic so if you find any floating around in the forest, feel free to collect it and I'll buy it from you. I'm going to try my best with your help to stabilize this forest and study its unique qualities. I'm hoping to help everyone here because I heard some of them weren't exactly thriving before I arrived. Pinot: Trout was my first customer actually, I've agreed to help him strengthen his turnips against interfering magic. a) I hope it works out. b) That sounds actually helpful. Pinot: Thanks!! I'm excited to embark on my new job. Feel free to drop by whenever you want, I'm always keen to trade or chat.
Rewards: 1000 Potatoes, 5x Crimson Energy Unlocked: Pinot's Daily Errands, Pinot's Apothecary (Chance Machine)

You come across a tall stone tower.

• a) Knock.
• b) Try to sneak in.

You turn to find Pinot disguised as a crow looking at you.

• a) Hello there. / Oh, h-hello.
• b) I knew it was your tower!

Pinot asks if you like the tower, which he built with some magical assistance.

• a) It looks like a lot of magical assistance.
• b) It looks cool, I like it.

Pinot expresses a desire to find a purpose in the forest now that he's settled down and tells you he's set up shop inside. He's also agreed to help Trout strengthen his turnips against interfering magic.

• a) I hope it works out.
• b) That sounds actually helpful.

Pinot thanks you and says that you're always free to drop by to trade or chat.

Quest Rewards
Stat Rewards	1,000 Potatoes	5 Crimson Energy
Unlocks	Pinot's Daily Errands
	Pinot's Apothecary

Pinot's Forest Pastimes

Quest Information
Speak With	Pinot
Prerequisites	600 Affection with Pinot
Description	"You go for a visit to Pinot's tower and explore the forest with him."

Full Transcript
As you approach Pinot's tower, you see the young mage standing on the grass outside, cradling a crow in his hands. A tiny bottle filled with purple liquid is tied to the bird's foot. Pinot whispers something to the crow, who caws in response and flaps away into the forest. Pinot: Oh, world-hopper, I didn't see you there. Have you come to see my magical experiments? a) Ask what was in the bottle. Pinot: Bottle? What bottle? I have no idea what you're talking about. All my bottles are in my tower. Why would I have a bottle outside? That would be ridiculous! Hahahaha! Pinot laughs a little too loud. b) Ask where he sent the crow. Pinot: I use crows in my magical research. There's nothing weird about it. Mages use animals all the time. Crows are very intelligent, they can collect anything I want. You would probably benefit from having one yourself! As Pinot rapidly rolls off facts about crows, he nervously wipes his hands on his cloak. a) Eye him suspiciously. b) Tell him you don't believe him. c) Smile and say, "Sure," Pinot straightens up and looks affronted. He opens his mouth to respond, but is suddenly cut off by someone shouting from behind you. Barclay: HEY! Both you and Pinot turn to see Barclay trudging up the path to the tower. He's holding a familiar tiny bottle in his hand. You hear Pinot mutter to himself under his breath. Pinot: He got here fast. Barclay: Why have you been sending all this weird stuff to me? Pinot: I haven't been sending anything. As if to prove his point, Barclay uncorks the bottle and dumps its contents on the ground. POOF! A red mist rises up, leaving a message emblazoned in the grass: BARCLAY SMELLS. a) Laugh at the message. Barclay shoots you a withering look. Barclay: I thought you weren't into childish pranks, world-hopper. I still have much to teach you about being a knight. He turns his attention back to Pinot, who's doing a terrible job trying to suppress a smile. Barclay: This is clearly your magical signature. What do you want? Pinot snorts, unable to contain his laughter. He bursts into a fit of giggles. Pinot: Yes, it was I! I've been the one sending you menacing letters and armies of stink bugs! I've been the one telling the crows to steal your candy! Barclay: The crows have been stealing my candy? Pinot: Ahem, forget I said anything. The point is, you're my number one rival, Barnacles. I have to keep you on your toes. Barclay: I've told you before, we're not rivals. But I guess your little pranks got me out here, and I was curious to see your setup. b) Tell Pinot the jig is up. Pinot's face flushes and he glares at you. Pinot: Et tu, world-hopper? Fine. It was me. I'm your rival, Barnacles. It's my job to keep you on your toes. Barclay: I've told you before, we're not rivals. No need to send an army of stink bugs to my house. A small giggle escapes Pinot's mouth. Pinot: But it was a good prank, wasn't it? Barclay sighs and rolls his eyes. Barclay: Well, I was curious to see your setup here anyway. c) Stay silent and try to blend into the scenery. You go stock still, trying to do your best tree impression. Barclay's brow furrows in confusion as he stares at you. Barclay: World-hopper, what are you doing? Pinot: They look a bit like Professor Pinwin when he accidentally ate an entire spirit pepper. Barclay: Oh, I forgot about that! He went totally still and you could just see the realization sweep over his face. Pinot and Barclay burst into laughter. Pinot: Okay, you're right, Barnacles. I sent you all that stuff. You're my rival, after all. And wasn't it fun? Barclay: Not sure I'd call an army of stink bugs fun. But I guess I wanted to come over here and see your setup anyway. Barclay: That's one tall tower you've got. Pinot: I need lots of space for my magical experiments. Speaking of, I should tend to them now. I suppose I could show you around if you two are so desperate to see inside. Before either of you can reply, Pinot claps his hands once and the tower's large stone door slides open. Barclay shrugs at you and walks through the door. Go inside. After gesturing for you to wipe your shoes on a scarlet welcome mat, Pinot leads the two of you up a spiral stone staircase and ushers you through a low door on the first floor. Ducking your head, you enter a spacious room with six workstations set up in a neat row. Various test tubes, beakers, and pots sit on the tables; some are filled with delicious-smelling herbs, while others contain a red liquid that gives off a hint of cinnamon. Crows ferry various plants and bugs back and forth, alighting on stacks of books next to each station as they deposit their cargo. Pinot makes a beeline for one of the tables, checking the contents of a small, bubbling cauldron and making notes in a notebook. He then moves to the next table and grinds some herbs and feeds them to a crow that's poking a test tube. You and Barclay watch mesmerized as Pinot methodically checks every station, switching effortlessly between his different experiments. Barclay: Wow, this is a lot of experiments. Pinot: I'm just continuing the type of work we did at the academy. I still have all my old textbooks and materials. Pinot points to a row of bookshelves lining the wall, but Barclay's attention is drawn to a floppy, midnight blue velvet cap that's hanging on a peg. He grabs it and puts it on his head. Then he takes what appears to be a run-of-the-mill stick from one of the shelves and starts playing with it like a sword, jabbing at invisible enemies in the air. Barclay: I haven't seen this stuff in years! a) Ask about the hat. Barclay: This hat is part of our school uniform. Barclay waves his hand and yellow flowers bloom all over the cap. Pinot rolls his eyes. Pinot: Show-off. He always used to decorate his cap like that. Barclay: I was just trying to make it prettier. Our uniforms were so boring. Pinot: Our uniforms were elegant robes steeped in tradition. As a retort, Barclay gives the hat a tap and a small tree sprouts up from the crown. Pinot scoffs and turns to you. Pinot: Any personalization was a direct violation of the dress code. Professor Pinwin hated it when he did that. b) Ask about the stick. Pinot: It's actually part of our school uniform. Pinot takes the stick from Barclay and flicks it in the air. It transforms into a rose, which Pinot then tucks into his breast pocket. Pinot: See? It was a way for us to practice magic too. Barclay reaches over and taps the flower, making it grow rapidly until a whole vine of roses is wrapped around Pinot. Pinot: Show-off. Barclay: That was payback for all the pranks. Pinot mutters something and the vine shrinks back into a single rose. Pinot: He used to do that stuff at school too. He'd march into class covered head-to-toe in flowers. It was a flagrant violation of the dress code. Professor Pinwin hated it. a) Ask about Professor Pinwin. Pinot: Professor Pinwin taught our summoning class, and he also happened to be our homeroom teacher. He was always after Barclay for flouting the rules. Barclay: I didn't flout the rules so much as not care. Besides, he would lecture at us for hours. There wasn't anything else to do but decorate my uniform. b) Ask if Barclay got in trouble a lot. Barclay: What do you take me for, world-hopper? I'm not a troublemaker; I'm a brave knight! Pinot: ...Well, he did get in trouble for saying that kind of thing a lot. Barclay: Wow, how noble of you, Pinot. Pinot: It's the truth, Barnacles. Professor Pinwin was always after him for drifting off. Barclay: He lectured at us for hours. Of course I was going to think about more exciting things. Pinot: I always found his lectures enlightening. Barclay: Well, yeah, because you were a teacher's pet. Barclay states this as a matter of fact, but Pinot sputters nonetheless. Pinot: Just because I got good grades doesn't mean I was a teacher's pet. Sure, I might've brought him enchanted fruit every day, but the man is old. He needs the vitamins. Barclay: And now you're following in his boring footsteps by doing all these boring experiments. Pinot: Excuse me! Magical research is exciting. You're literally discovering new things! Besides, this is what we were trained for. Barclay: Please. Rescuing princes from certain doom is exciting. Pinot: And you rescue princes often, do you? Barclay: Well, I write stories about it! And I go on adventures in the forest. That's way cooler than playing around with beakers. a) Agree with Barclay. Barclay: I knew we were of the same mind, world-hopper. You have a true adventurer's spirit. Barclay gives you a friendly pat on the back, and Pinot glowers at you. Pinot: Hmph. I just don't believe it. Nothing can top magical research. In fact, I bet you can't show me one activity that I find more exciting. Barclay: A knight never runs from a challenge! Come on, world-hopper, we have to show Pinot what he's missing! Barclay seizes Pinot's hand, and the young mage's eyes go wide with surprise. Pinot stammers a bit, but allows Barclay to drag him toward to the door. b) Agree with Pinot. Pinot: Glad to hear we share the same opinion, world-hopper. Though I'm not surprised, given your logical mind. Barclay: I cannot believe this! Pinot: Come now, Barnacles. Accept defeat like a good loser. Barclay: A knight never accepts defeat! I have a challenge for the both of you - I bet I can show you at least one activity you find cooler than magical research! Pinot: This wager is heavily skewed in my favor, but fine, if you insist. I accept your challenge. c) Disagree with both of them. Barclay: How can you not think swordfights with dragons are cool? Pinot: What about all of the things you learn through research? Experiments are the coolest thing you can do! Barclay: How can you both be so wrong?! Pinot: You're the one who's wrong! Nothing is better than magical research, and I bet you can't convince me otherwise. Barclay: I bet I can find at least one activity you like better than these crusty old experiments. And that goes for you too, world-hopper! Pinot: You're on! No sooner does Pinot accept than Barclay seizes his hand. The young mage's eyes go wide with surprise. Barclay then grabs your hand, and drags you both to the door with determination. Go into the forest./Trot along behind them into the forest. Barclay draws in a breath of fresh air as the three of you walk down from Pinot's tower into the forest. The sun shines overhead as a pleasant breeze rustles through the trees. Chipmunks twitter in the nearby bushes and in the distance you can hear a babbling brook. Pinot: It's an uncommonly nice day out, I'll give you that. Barclay trots down the path leaving a trail of daises in his wake. Pinot frowns. Pinot: Barnacles, you're not casting in the correct way. Barclay: It works though, doesn't it? Pinot: I mean, yes, but- Before Pinot can continue, Barclay interrupts him by tapping the brim of his hat. A large flower springs up on the band. Pinot plucks the flower and twirls it between his fingers, smiling a little. Pinot: Oh...uh, well, I guess it's okay then. Barclay: It's time for Barclay's Grand Forest Tour! First up is my favorite tree stump! a) I LOVE tree stumps! Barclay: Yeah, me too! Pinot: How can you love tree stumps...? Barclay: You'll see, Pinot! Come on, this way! Skip along with Barclay down the path. b) A tree stump...? Pinot: Yes, I'm confused too. How can a tree stump be exciting? Barclay: You two have no imagination! Come on, it's this way. In the center of a small clearing sits a rather large tree stump. You run your hand over its rough surface, noting the amount of rings it has. Barclay: Isn't it a mighty stump? It's good for sitting, daydreaming, knitting... whatever, really! Pinot: All you do is sit? Barclay runs over to the stump and jumps on it, gesturing for the two of you to join him. Pinot looks skeptical. a) Take a seat on the stump. Pinot sighs as he watches you bound over to the stump. Pinot: Fine, I'll sit on the stump. There might be some interesting plantlife around it to observe. Barclay: That's not the point. As Pinot strides over to the stump, a mischievous fern reaches out and wraps around his left leg. Horror flashes over Pinot's face as he pitches forward, tumbling right onto Barclay. Barclay: Get off! Pinot: I'm trying! This infernal fern won't let go! b) Stand awkwardly. Barclay: Are neither of you going to join me? Pinot: The world-hopper and I don't have time to just sit around and do nothing when there's a whole fascinating forest to study. Pinot turns to a nearby bush with dark green waxy leaves that's dotted with pink berries. Pinot: Take this bush, for example. It looks like an interesting specimen. Barclay: We're not here to look at "specimens." Pinot snorts and sticks his hand in the bush. Suddenly, long, ropey branches shoot out and wrap around Pinot, pulling him into the shrubbery. Pinot: ACK! Barclay lets out a laugh as Pinot disappears into the plant. a) Step in to help. You try to disentangle Pinot from the bush, but somehow end up making things worse. Right as you're about to resort to drastic measures, the bush bursts into a kaleidoscope of butterflies, leaving a bewildered Pinot on the ground. Looking back, you see a wisp of yellow magic dissipating from Barclay's outstretched hand. Barclay: No plant is a match for me. Pinot: More showing off, I see. I could've gotten out of that, you know. Pinot stands up, dusting off his robes. b) Laugh with Barclay. (?) - if "Stand awkwardly." was chosen above b) Giggle at the circumstance. - if "Take a seat on the stump." was chosen above Pinot: This is no laughing matter! Barclay: Oh come on, it's a little funny. Barclay thrusts his hand out toward the fern in a sharp gesture, and the plant bursts into a kaleidoscope of butterflies. Pinot: More showing off, I see. I could've gotten out of that, you know. Pinot scrambles off of Barclay, smoothing out his robes as he stands up. a) That was so cool, Barclay! b) Why butterflies? Pinot: Butterflies are a Barclay classic. He used them when we first became rivals. Barclay: I have no idea what you're talking about. Pinot: First day of summoning class. We were supposed to summon a simple caterpillar. Right when I was demonstrating my talents, you went and summoned a whole swarm of butterflies, upstaging me. And that's when our rivalry began! Barclay: I didn't even realize you were going. I thought we were all supposed to summon at once. Pinot: Too bad Professor Pinwin has lepidopterophobia. Barclay: Yeah, that was unfortunate. I had to clean the classroom for a week. Pinot: Everyone was impressed, though. They all wanted to learn how to summon butterflies after that. a) Your school sounds fun. b) Your school sounds hard. Pinot: It was a lot of hard work, but we still had good times. Right, Barnacles? Barclay falls silent for a moment before standing up from the stump. Barclay: Barclay: I'm going to take you to my favorite rabbit meadow next. Barclay: I'm going to take you to my favorite rabbit meadow next. a) I LOVE rabbits! Barclay: They're so cute, right? Pinot: I don't get what the big deal about them is… Barclay: Careful, Pinot. Or we will really become rivals. Pinot: We already are! b) I'm scared of rabbits. Pinot: I know they look a little unsettling, but they're nothing to be afraid of. Barclay: Rabbits are cute! They're not unsettling at all! Pinot: Have you ever looked at their teeth? They never stop growing, you know. I'd call that unsettling. Barclay: You do realize you suck the fun out of everything, right? c) Rabbits are stinky. Barclay: Rabbits are cute! They're not stinky at all! Pinot: Speaking of smells, did you know that rabbits have 100 million scent cells? They're quite extraordinary. Barclay: That's right, rabbits are great! Listen to Pinot! Pinot looks confused by the praise, but smiles nonetheless. Make your way to the meadow. Wild rabbits dash to and fro amongst the wildflowers in the meadow before you. Barclay pulls several lacy collars from his pocket and hands them to you and Pinot. Barclay: I made these collars. We're going to put them on the bunnies. Pinot: But why? Barclay huffs at Pinot. Barclay: Because it's cute. Pinot: Well, excuse me for being curious. You stare down at the tiny lace collar. It's reminiscent of a doily. A brown rabbit with a white tail hops across your path. a) Leap at the rabbit. You dive and manage to corall the rabbit with your arms. It stops in its tracks and looks at you, and you take the chance to wrangle the collar onto it. The bunny looks at you unamused. Barclay: How cute, world-hopper! Though I can't say I approve of you leaping at the rabbit like that. The rabbit hops out of your arms and tears across the meadow into the trees. b) Ask the rabbit nicely to wear the collar. The rabbit looks at you with inquisitive eyes and hops over to your feet. It allows you to slip the collar around its neck. Barclay: Great job, world-hopper! A masterful negotiation. Pinot: Hey! Look at what I've done! Pinot holds up a rabbit wearing an elaborate ruff collar, dark blue floppy cap, and velvet robes. A large handlebar mustache is perched under the rabbit's nose. a) What did you do to that bunny? b) What a dignified mustache! Barclay: ...Is that supposed to be the founder of Solsthera? Pinot: That's right! This is the exact outfit the founder of our magic academy wore. We can learn so much about history through clothes! Pinot beams as Barclay facepalms. Barclay: You've missed the point yet again. And that mustache is ugly. Pinot: It's period accurate. Barclay mutters under his breath. Barclay: It's like school all over again. Pinot's brow furrows as he lets the rabbit hop to the ground. The bunny shakes off the mustache as the three of you stand in awkward silence for a moment. Barclay: Anyway, let's go to my favorite tree hollow. a) I LOVE tree hollows! Pinot: Is there anything you don't love, world-hopper? Barclay: I think their enthusiasm is refreshing. True knights seize life by the horns. Pinot: I'd prefer to make sure life won't gouge me first. Barclay snorts, but he can't hide the grin that spreads across his face. Pinot looks pleased. b) Don't raccoons live in those? Barclay: I think Pinot's rubbing off on you, world-hopper. Pinot: They're not wrong. Raccoons and other wildlife live in tree hollows. I certainly don't want to stick my hand in one and get bit, thank you. Barclay draws in a deep breath as if to calm himself. Barclay: A knight doesn't get dragged into pointless arguments. Make your way to the tree hollow. The three of you come to a gnarled old tree with a vaguely diamond-shaped hollow. Without hesitation, Barclay sticks his hand inside and draws out several books. Barclay: This is a great tree hollow for storing books. I often come out here to read. Pinot inspects the volumes, picking them up one by one and leafing through them. Pinot: I love books, but these are all fantasy stories. I only read nonfiction. a) I like fantasy stories too! Barclay: They're the best, aren't they? Heroic battles, dragons, enchanted swords... You're welcome to borrow any of my books whenever you like, world-hopper. You too, Pinot, if you can tear yourself away from your treatises on magical research. Pinot: Admittedly, I only read them because my parents told me anything else was a waste of time. b) Nonfiction is my favorite genre! Pinot's face lights up with a smile, but it quickly fades. Pinot: Admittedly, I only read so much nonfiction because my parents told me anything else was a waste of time. c) I like mysteries personally. Pinot: I could see that. You figured out who I was, after all. Barclay: Mysteries are fine, but there aren't enough dragons. Pinot: I was always interested in mysteries, but my parents didn't let me read them. They said made-up stories were a waste of time. a) That's terrible! b) I'm sure they had their reasons. Pinot: They tried their best, but they were very focused on me honing my magic. Barclay: I didn't know that, Pinot. Pinot: They were very strict about my studies. I had to go to the best school, be the top of my class, and excel in magic. I wanted to make them happy, and besides, I was good at school. Pinot gives the two of you a weak smile. Barclay pauses before continuing. Barclay: I guess we both know what it's like to have lots of unreasonable expectations placed on you. Everyone at the academy expected me to fall in line and do everything as I was told. But my mind just doesn't work like that. It's funny you said everyone was impressed when I did the butterfly thing. I mostly remember them teasing me because I did the assignment wrong. That happened a lot - I couldn't concentrate so I'd mess up the details, or I'd trash the assignment because it wasn't perfect. Professor Pinwin was always telling me to get my head out of the clouds. Pinot: He was overly fond of saying that. Barclay: I just couldn't learn that way. All the rigid rules and sitting around didn't work for me. And grades? Grades were a nightmare. I need to be out in the world, doing things. Anyway, that's why I left the academy. a) Thank you for sharing, Barclay. Pinot: Yes, thank you for telling us. I never really knew why you left. But I understand. Barclay: You do? b) I'm the same way, Barclay. Barclay: Thanks, world-hopper. At least I'm not the only one. Pinot: I appreciate you telling me. I never really knew why you left. But I understand. Barclay: You do? c) Can I give you a hug? Barclay: Well, I normally don't hug, but... Yes. A hug sounds nice right now. Barclay throws his arms around you and gives you a squeeze worthy of a knight. Pinot: I appreciate you telling me. I never really knew why you left. But I understand. Barclay: You do? Pinot: I don't think I would've understood before you showed me around today. I might not find the same things exciting, but I can see you get a lot out of them. Your path works for you. Barclay: It's really nice to hear someone from school say that. Though I guess I couldn't convince you that this stuff is cooler than magical research, huh? Pinot gives Barclay a mischievous smile. Pinot: Does a knight give up at the first sign of trouble? I'm your nemesis, Barnacles, I was always going to be a tough nut to crack. Barclay jumps up with renewed determination shining in his eyes. Barclay: You're right! I'm not backing down! I know exactly what we're going to do next - we're going to play EGGS! Pinot gasps and claps his hands. Pinot: I love EGGS! a) Eggs, like the thing that come from chickens? b) I LOVE eggs too! Barclay: No, not eggs. EGGS - Enchanted Galactic Gardens in the Skies. Pinot: It's a children's game. It really should be called EGGITS, but there's no reasoning with kids. Barclay: Basically, you use magic to create a garden out of light in the sky, and whoever's garden earns the most points, wins. Pinot: Each player takes turns rolling an arcane die, and the number corresponds with a certain plant you can "grow" in your garden. Now, here's the tricky part... Pinot and Barclay take turns explaining that you can only place the magical light plants in certain positions that correspond with constellations in the sky. Also that there are numbers that allow you to make garden "sets" based on some ancient recipe book. Also, apparently, certain sets give you the "magical bread loaf," which automatically awards a player 50 points. Pinot: And that's the basics of it! You'll pick up the rest as you go. Barclay: Oh, wait. The world-hopper can't use magic. Pinot: Oh... Well, that does put a damper on things. You need to be able to draw plants in the sky. Pinot and Barclay look at each other, unsure of what to do. They're practically humming with excitement at the prospect of playing the game, but don't want to cut you out. a) Say you have more adventuring to do anyway. Barclay: Ah, yes, the call of adventure never ceases! Pinot: Well, if you're okay with it, then we'll bid you adieu here. Thanks for stopping by my tower today. Barclay: And thanks for coming around the forest with me! I'm glad I could show you all my favorite stuff. As Barclay says goodbye to you, Pinot sneaks up behind him and drops a red die on his head. It bounces off barclay's head and rolls on the ground, showing a symbol you don't recognize. Pinot: That's my first roll, Barnacles! That magical bread loaf is as good as mine! Barclay: In your dreams, Pinot! Pinot and Barclay give you a final wave, and then frolic off into the sunset like two excited children. On your way out of the forest, you look up and watch as several magical beams shoot into the sky and transform into glittering gardens of crimson and gold light. b) Suggest they should have some alone time together. Pinot's face goes bright red as he stammers out a response. Pinot: Alone time? Us? Why would we need that - I mean, we are rivals and a little friendly competition is healthy, but I don't see why you would say it that way - Barclay: I think the world-hopper is saying we have some catching up to do. Pinot: Right! Of course. That's very sporting of you, world-hopper. Barclay: I hope you're prepared for a crushing defeat, Pinot. My light garden shall reign victorious! Pinot: Bold words, Barnacles! But I am the master of the bread loaf! Pinot and Barclay give you a wave goodbye, and then frolic off into the sunset like two excited children. On your way out of the forest, you look up and watch as several magical beams shoot into the sky and transform into glittering gardens of crimson and gold light. c) Offer to keep score. Barclay: That's a great idea! Thanks! Pinot: I hope you're ready to calculate the bread loaf multiplier! After watching Pinot and Barclay play for about 20 minutes, it's apparent you won't be able to keep up with the complicated scoring for the game. The other two don't seem to care and are more focused on taunting each other than anything else. You lie back on the soft grass and watch as several magical beams shoot into the sky and transform into glittering gardens of crimson and gold light.
Rewards: 1 Ornate Red Apple, 1 Pinot's Academy Spell Circle, 1 Pinot's Cosmic Wispy Cape, 1 Pinot's Cosmic Academy Hat, 5000 Potatoes, +3 Affection with Pinot

You find Pinot sending away a crow with a bottle attached to its feet.

• a) Ask what was in the bottle.
• b) Ask where he sent the crow.

Pinot nervously deflects the question.

• a) Eye him suspiciously.
• b) Tell him you don't believe him.
• c) Smile and say, "Sure,"

Barclay arrives and confronts Pinot about why he has been sending him weird stuff. Pinot denies the accusation and Barclay shows a potion spelling out "BARCLAY SMELLS" in red mist.

• a) Laugh at the message.
• b) Tell Pinot the jig is up.
• c) Stay silent and try to blend into the scenery.

Pinot admits to the pranks and Barclay makes no further deal of it. Pinot shows you around his tower, eventually coming upon a particular hat and stick that Barclay recognizes.

• a) Ask about the hat.
• b) Ask about the stick.

They tell you it's from school and mentions a Professor Pinwin.

• a) Ask about Professor Pinwin.
• b) Ask if Barclay got in trouble a lot.

Barclay and Pinot argues about whether writing fantasy stories or conducting experiments are more exciting.

• a) Agree with Barclay.
• b) Agree with Pinot.
• c) Disagree with both of them.

Barclay and Pinot makes a bet whether Barclay can show Pinot an activity that he enjoys more than research.

Barclay: It's time for Barclay's Grand Forest Tour! First up is my favorite tree stump!

• a) I LOVE tree stumps!
• b) A tree stump...?

Barclay runs over to the stump and jumps on it, gesturing for the two of you to join him. Pinot looks skeptical.

• a) Take a seat on the stump.
• b) Stand awkwardly.

Pinot starts getting bothered by a plant.

• a) Step in to help.
• b1) Laugh with Barclay. (?) - [if "Stand awkwardly."]
• b2) Giggle at the circumstance. - [if "Take a seat on the stump."]

Barclay helps him by turning the plant into butterflies.

• a) That was so cool, Barclay!
• b) Why butterflies?

Pinot and Barclay tells a story of Barclay summoning butterflies instead of caterpillars for class and getting into trouble.

• a) Your school sounds fun.
• b) Your school sounds hard.

Pinot mentions school being hard but still being a good time, to which Barclay stays silent.

Barclay: I'm going to take you to my favorite rabbit meadow next.

• a) I LOVE rabbits!
• b) I'm scared of rabbits.
• c) Rabbits are stinky.

Barclay instructs you to put hand-made collars on the rabbits.

• a) Leap at the rabbit.
• b) Ask the rabbit nicely to wear the collar.

Pinot holds up a rabbit wearing an elaborate ruff collar, dark blue floppy cap, and velvet robes. A large handlebar mustache is perched under the rabbit's nose.

• a) What did you do to that bunny?
• b) What a dignified mustache!

Barclay isn't too fond of Pinot dressing up the rabbit as the founder of their academy.

Barclay: Anyway, let's go to my favorite tree hollow.

• a) I LOVE tree hollows!
• b) Don't raccoons live in those?

Barclay shows you a tree stump which he stores books in and sits on to read. Pinot expresses that he only likes nonfiction, while all of Barclay's books are fantasy.

• a) I like fantasy stories too!
• b) Nonfiction is my favorite genre!
• c) I like mysteries personally.

Pinot admits that he only reads nonfiction because his parents didn't let him read fiction for being a waste of time.

• a) That's terrible!
• b) I'm sure they had their reasons.

Pinot opens up about his strict parents and always wanting to please them. Barclay shares that he left the academy because he couldn't follow the rigid expectations placed on how he should go about learning.

• a) Thank you for sharing, Barclay.
• b) I'm the same way, Barclay.
• c) Can I give you a hug?

Pinot expresses how he finally understands why Barclay chose the path he did.

Not having convinced Pinot of an activity he likes more than research, Barclay announces the next activity to be EGGS, which Pinot exclaims that he loves.

• a) Eggs, like the thing that come from chickens?
• b) I LOVE eggs too!

Barclay explains that EGGS stands for Enchanted Galactic Gardens in the Skies, a children's game for magic-users. They are both excited to play but recognizes that you can't use magic to participate.

• a) Say you have more adventuring to do anyway.
• b) Suggest they should have some alone time together.
• c) Offer to keep score.

Quest Rewards
Stat Rewards	5,000 Potatoes	+3 Affection with Pinot
Item Rewards	Ornate Red Apple	Pinot's Academy Spell Circle
	Pinot's Cosmic Wispy Cape	Pinot's Cosmic Academy Hat

Pinot's Studious Perils

Quest Information
Speak With	Pinot
Prerequisites	1300 Affection with Pinot
Description	"You find Pinot in a bit of a pickle, as it were."

Full Transcript
The familiar caws of Pinot’s crows echo down the path as you make your way to his tower. Drawing closer, you look up and catch a glimpse of the birds darting from the building into the woods on their daily errands. Red smoke billows out from the chimney per usual, and the crimson glow of Pinot's magic emanates from the windows, cutting through the early morning fog. A sudden BOOM rocks the tower. Bits of loose stone rain down, and for a moment, a surge of bright red magic glows hot through the windows. You turn your attention to the door as it opens to reveal a sooty, coughing Pinot. Thick, acrid smoke spills out from behind him. Pinot: Oh, world-hopper -cough- what are you doing here? As the young mage steps out of the doorway and moves toward you, you spy a small flame clinging to the hem of his cloak. a) Tackle Pinot to put out the fire. Without a word, you tackle Pinot to the ground, frantically trying to put out the flame. Pinot: What are you doing?! Get off me! Oh, I see what you're trying to do. You can't put out magical fire like that, you need to spell it away. And besides, my cloak is flameproof. Pinot rolls you off of him and snaps his fingers, dispelling the fire. He then stands up and offers you his hand. Pinot: Really, world-hopper, you need to think before you act. Pinot: A little fire's nothing to get worked up over. b) Frantically warn Pinot about the fire. Pinot glances down at his cloak, unconcerned. He snaps his fingers and the fire poofs out of existence. Pinot: My cloak is flameproof. A little fire's no big deal. He grins at you, as if expecting you to be impressed. a) What was that explosion? b) Set yourself on fire often, do you? Pinot's ears turn pink as he sheepishly looks at the ground. Pinot: The explosion and subsequent fire were an unfortunate accident. One of my crows tipped over the sprite fortification potion I'd been brewing, which in turn dribbled onto a few gemstones I'd attuned for Magdalene... The gemstones grew in size due to the potion and pushed my latest treatise on transformation into a cauldron where I was brewing a magic-enhanced turnip fertilizer for Trout. I guess the magical properties of the ink made the cauldron go... kablooey. Pinot gives a small chuckle like it's no big deal and removes his hat to dust off the soot. It looks like he hasn't washed his hair in days, and there are bags under his eyes as well. He lets out a shaky breath before donning his hat again and giving you a thin smile. a) Sounds like you're working too much. Pinot: What? That's absurd! You can't work too much! You're so funny, world-hopper! Pinot lets out a huge guffaw, as if you've made the funniest joke in the world. Pinot: Besides, I need to do all this work to help the forest and make up for my past transgressions. As my parents used to say, "We don't tolerate laziness in this house!" And I love magical research! Really, I'm fine. Totally fine! Pinot strikes a power pose with his hands on his hips, as if to demonstrate how "fine" he is. Suddenly, another explosion sounds within the tower, and you hear the of shattering glass. Pinot deflates. Pinot: ...Maybe you're right. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately, which inevitably leads to mistakes. I'm so worried about getting it all done that I haven't been sleeping well either. But this is how I've always been; I've always worked constantly to be the best. Pinot shrugs and looks at you helplessly. b) You know what they say: all work and no play... Pinot stares at you blankly. Pinot: No? What do they say? He draws a small notebook out of his pocket and pulls a quill out of thin air. He scribbles the first part of the saying, and then looks at you expectantly to finish. a) Summarize the sentiment. Pinot: Oh, I see. It means that if I work too much I'll become stuck in a rut and boring. Well, I can assure you, I'm far from boring! Pinot smiles broadly as if to prove how fun he is. Suddenly, another explosion sounds within the tower, and you hear the shattering of glass. Pinot deflates. Pinot: ...Okay, maybe you have a point. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately, which inevitably leads to mistakes. I'm so worried about getting it all done that I haven't been sleeping well either. But I need to do all this to help the forest and make up for my past transgressions. I've always had to work to be the best. As my parents used to say, "We don't tolerate laziness in this house!" Pinot shrugs and looks at you helplessly. b) Finish the line, "...Make Pinot a dull boy." (?) c) Give up - it doesn't matter. (?) c) Give him a comforting pat on the shoulder. Pinot starts, completely taken off guard. Pinot: Do I have more soot on me? Or are you attempting to... comfort me? It's really okay, world-hopper. Just a few minor setbacks. And I'm doing all this work to help the forest and make up for my past transgressions. As my parents used to say, "We don't tolerate laziness in this house!" And I love magical research! Really, I'm fine. Totally fine! Pinot gives a hearty laugh as if to demonstrate how "fine" he is, which turns into a hacking cough. He steadies himself after a few moments, but looks deflated. Pinot: ...I guess there's no use hiding it. I've been burning the candle at both ends lately, which inevitably leads to mistakes. I'm so worried about getting it all done that I haven't been sleeping well either. But this is how I've always been; I've always had to work to be the best. Pinot shrugs and looks at you helplessly. Pinot: I know I probably should try and relax, but the truth is, I wouldn't even know where to start. a) How about taking a few deep breaths? (?) b) Lie on the grass and look at the sky. Pinot looks at the grass dubiously, but follows your lead as you get down on the ground. He gingerly lies on his back, and the two of you spend several moments in silence watching fluffy cotton clouds lazily glide across the sky. Pinot: I'm not sure I feel any calmer, but this is pleasant enough. Do you think another type of cloud would have a different effect? Some of the puffy ones look stressful to me. Pinot whips out a notebook from one of his pockets and scribbles in it. c) Try drinking some hot tea. Pinot immediately conjures a pot of steaming hot tea and a pair of porcelain cups that float in the air. With a wave of his hand, the teapot tips its spout, pouring amber liquid into the two cups. One of the them floats toward you, and you can smell strong notes of jasmine with a hint of mint. The two of you sip the tea in silence for a few moments. Pinot: Yes, I can see how this could be soothing. Maybe I could infuse some blends with magical properties for extra relaxation... Pinot whips out a notebook from one of his pockets and scribbles in it. d) Dance like no one's watching. (?) e) Take a bath. Pinot: A bath? Right now? Sounds a little weird, but okay. Pinot snaps his fingers and a large white bathtub with golden clawfeet appears on the grass. The young mage hops in, spilling some of the steaming water in the tub. Pinot: Hmm... The steam is definitely clearing my sinuses, and the warm water is doing wonders for my muscles. Pinot hops out of the water, magically dry. The tub disappears in a poof. Whipping out a notebook from his pocket, Pinot dashes off a few notes. Pinot: The effects of hot water on the body are most fascinating! I should look into this more. a) Are you actually taking notes? b) Sounds like you're giving yourself more work. Pinot: But I need to keep track of all the different techniques so I know which ones work. How else will I learn? a) You could ask the others. Pinot: What a good idea! Yes, I should conduct a study and ask the others for their suggestions as well. I'll even write up a report after. I'm going to become best relaxer around! b) You could read some books. Pinot: Yes, I can read previous research! Surely there have to be studies on relaxing. My tower is a bit of a mess right now, so I'll just... Pinot draws a few invisible shapes into the air and soon you see a line of books floating down from one of the tower windows. Pinot: Neat trick, huh? As the thick tomes land on the grass, Pinot begins to pore over them with lightning speed. Soon, he's gone through the entire stack. Pinot: I can't believe it! Not a single study on relaxation. I'm just going to have to do some field work. I can ask the forest denizens for their suggestions, and write up a report after. Pinot: Now, who shall I visit first? I can't visit Barclay, because he's out collecting dewdrops or somesuch - don't ask how I know. But Irin is wise; they'll undoubtedly have some advice on how to calm down. You'll come with me, won't you? a) Gladly! I want to learn more tips too. b) Only to save you from yourself. Pinot: Sounds good to me! The two of you spend a half an hour of searching for Irin in a dense thicket in 3's Forest. Eventually, you spy them crouching next to a waterfall. A handful of sprites play in the water, splashing each other and giggling, while the guardian watches over them. Pinot: Greetings, mighty guardian! We're conducting a bit of research on stress relief. What do you do to relax? Irin cocks their head to one side, ears twitching. Irin: What I do to... relax? Pinot: Yes. It turns out I have trouble relaxing, so I wanted to ask you for advice. Irin: What is relaxing? Pinot: Well, I was hoping you could answer that. Irin makes a thoughtful sound and falls silent. For a few minutes, the leafy buds on their head rustle as they think. Then, nothing. Irin stares blankly ahead, stock still. Pinot looks over at you worried. Pinot: Did we... break Irin? a) Poke Irin. You poke Irin's arm a few times. The sprites take notice and flutter over to them, tickling the leaves on Irin's arms. Irin breaks out of their stupor and snorts with laughter. Irin: Okay, okay! Enough tickling. Irin: Sorry to take so long. I tried to search my memory, but I'm afraid I don't know what "relaxing" is. b) Yell into Irin's face. Irin is seemingly unmoved by your yelling. After about 10 more minutes, the guardian turns their head slowly toward you and blinks. Irin: Really, you don't have to shout. Just ask your questions calmly. Irin: I thought about it, but I'm afraid I don't know what "relaxing" is. Pinot: Don't you do anything when you're stressed? Irin: Stress is a temporary state. It goes away eventually. Pinot: How long does it take? Irin: A few years. Pinot doesn't say anything, but takes out his notebook. You see him scribbling something about the effects of stress on creatures with long life spans. [If Irin and Magdalene are friends?] Irin: But now when I have a problem, I usually talk to Magdalene. Pinot turns to you, a frown on his face. Pinot: Magdalene's so hardworking, though. Do you think she'd be helpful? a) Hah, not a chance. Irin: You could have more faith in her, world-hopper. Magdalene's been very helpful with the sprites. Pinot: I guess it couldn't hurt to ask. b) She's a merchant. She knows all about stress. Pinot: That's a very good point. c) Different opinions will only help your study. Pinot: That's a very good point. Irin: I would like to learn about relaxing too. It might help with the sprites. Pinot nods in assent, and Irin bades farewell to the sprites, who are now sunning themselves on a large rock. The three of you make your way to Magdalene's cottage. Magdalene stands in front of her house, beating out a carpet. Dust motes fly into the air and linger in the sunbeams that shine down on her tidy garden. Magdalene: Hello! What brings you three out here today? With brisk efficiency, Pinot explains his quest to learn how to relax, and Irin chips in every now and then. Magdalene: Oh, relaxation is very important! Everyone needs to take breaks and recharge. I like to cook when I'm stressed! You hear a scratching sound, and look over to see Pinot furiously taking notes. Magdalene: Shall we make some food right now? What would you like? a) Hot soup. b) A big cake. c) Roasted sweet potatoes. Magdalene: Yes, that's just the ticket! Very yummy. But I think we'll need a little more than one dish if we're going to feed everyone. I'll just whip up a few more things. For the next two hours, Magdalene can only be described as a cooking tornado. She chops a bucket of carrots while braising a bushel of sweet potatoes. Three pots of soup bubble away on the stove, filling the air with the scent of onion and garlic. Flour flies, hitting the three of you as she mixes a three-tiered chocolate cake. Pinot stares wide-eyed at the spread of food before you, and the cottage's little table nearly buckles from the weight of it all. Fanning herself, a sweating Magdalene collapses into a chair, out of breath. Magdalene: Oh, dear... I might've gone a little overboard. I'm more keyed up than I was before. Maybe I don't know how to relax. But you know who would? Trout! a) Do we think turnips would be relaxing? Magdalene: I could see turnips being very relaxing! Irin nods slowly in agreement. Irin: Their round shape is pleasing. A grimace crosses Pinot's face. Pinot: I don't particularly want to be involved with turnips, but I promise I'll keep an open mind. b) Yes! A farmer would know about relaxing! Magdalene: Precisely! Farming's all about working hard and playing hard. Pinot: Very well. I'm open to everyone's suggestions. A grimace crosses Pinot's face. Pinot: I just hope his methods don't involve turnips. You walk with purpose to Trout's farm. Trout is digging in his turnip fields when you, Pinot, Magdalene, and Irin enter the farm. Upon seeing you all, Trout shoves his tiny spade into the ground and bounds over with excitement. Trout: Oh, Pinot! Have you brought that new fertilizer for me? Pinot: I'm still working on it. We're actually here to seek your advice. You see, none of us really know how to relax, and we wanted to ask you for suggestions on how to unwind. Trout: Nothing like back-breaking farm labor to clear the mind! Pinot: Wow, you had an immediate answer for that. Though farm work doesn't sound very relaxing. Trout: Don't knock it 'til you try it! The turnip sprout sprints to his shed and retrieves four garden hoes. He plunks one in each of your hands, and instructs you on how to remove weeds. You spend the next quarter of an hour or so digging in the dirt and working up a sweat. After failing to uproot a particularly tenacious weed, Pinot lets out a grunt of frustration and takes out his notebook. He writes furiously, in capital letters: FARMING IS NOT RELAXING. Magdalene: Trout, there must be other things you do to relax. Trout: Well, sometimes I talk to my turnips, or polish my turnips, or make scarecrows to protect the turnips... a) That still sounds like work. b) Does all your relaxation involve turnips? Trout: My word... You're right! All I do is work for my turnips! My life revolves around turnips! Every day and every night is turnips, turnips, turnips! The sprout starts pacing back and forth, wearing a small hole in the dirt. He wrings his leafy hands and mutters to himself. Trout: I don't know how to relax! Surely that's okay, my turnips are my life... But can I grow the best turnips if I can't teach them how to relax? Oh no... a) Physically stop Trout. You put out a gentle hand and stop Trout before he worries himself into a tizzy. He pushes against your hand stubbornly for a moment, before stopping with a sigh. Trout: Nothing good will come of me running in circles. I need to learn to relax! b) Tell Trout to take a breath. Trout is too worked up to hear you; in fact, his breathing becomes more labored. Eventually, Irin puts out a gentle hand and stops him. Trout: Whew, thanks, Irin. I don't know what came over me! Guess I need to learn to relax! c) Wait for Trout to tire himself out. Trout continues to frantically pace back and forth, his voice trilling higher and higher as he frets over his turnips. Pinot jots down some notes on Trout's incredible capacity to worry. Eventually, Irin puts out a gentle hand and stops the sprout. Trout snaps out of it and flops on the ground, exhausted. Irin: It sounds like we all need someone to whip us into shape. And I think we know a certain witch who can help us with that... You spend the ensuing walk through the forest at first wondering which witch you'll be seeing, until you start to notice some familiar plants along the way. Glume smiles smugly at the five of you after your arrival as Pinot explains your mission. Glume: Hmph. I'm surprised you didn't come to me first. I am the best at everything, after all. So, you're looking for stress-relief? Fine. I'll show you the secret. You'll all be puddles of relaxation in no time. With a toss of her hair, Glume beckons you to follow her around her house. The air shifts and turns thick with magic as soon as you enter the backyard. Long, purple vines hang down from trees overhead, and several training dummies lie in various states of dismemberment over the wild grass. Glume leads you to a row of circular targets. Glume: When I need to unwind, I come out here and shoot vines at these targets. It focuses the mind. Glume then distributes bows and arrows to all of you. Glume: No one touches my vines but me, so you'll all be using a bow and arrow. Go on now, try to hit the center of the targets. a) Take aim and shoot. Pinot: A direct hit, world-hopper! Not bad! Glume: Pfft. Beginner's luck. Watch and learn, plebes. b) Don't shoot, it's not for you. Glume: Too scared to try it, world-hopper? Hmph. Suit yourself. The rest of the group tries to hit the targets. Irin forgoes the bow and just chucks their arrow at the bullseye, though it bounces off and falls to the ground. Trout and Magdalene's arrows don't make it to the target, but Pinot's lands on the ring that's a step away from the center. Pinot: Hmm... Not bad. But I can't say I feel relaxed. Glume: Ugh, you're all doing it wrong! Let me show you how it's done! With a yell, Glume windmills her arms and shoots several vines at the targets. They all strike near the bullseye, but none get a direct hit. Glume: I cannot believe this! I am the best at everything! Pinot: Except the witch war. You lost that. Glume: EXCUSE ME?! Glume stares daggers at Pinot, dark magic gathering around her. Magdalene places a placating hand on Glume's shoulder and manages to diffuse the situation with her friendly smile. Magdalene: I think Pinot was just trying to remind us that humility is a virtue. Pinot: No, I was pointing out that Glume lost- Irin clamps a leafy hand over Pinot's mouth. Irin: Maybe we should ask Mycel next? a) Good idea. Mycel won the witches' war, after all. Pinot: I wholeheartedly agree, world-hopper. Her potions give me pause, but we haven't heard from her yet, and as the victor of the war, she must have some insight the rest of us don't. b) Might as well go down the list. Pinot: I wholeheartedly agree, world-hopper. Her potions give me pause, but we haven't heard from her yet, and as the victor of the war, she must have some insight the rest of us don't. c) Her potions scare me. Pinot: I wholeheartedly agree, world-hopper. Her potions give me pause, but we haven't heard from her yet, and as the victor of the war, she must have some insight the rest of us don't. Glume huffs with irritation. Glume: She's just going to suggest you eat some glowshrooms, you know. I clearly need to go with you all to make sure you're safe. Despite Glume's grumbling, she leads the way to Mycel's house. You find Mycel sitting amongst a clump of glowshrooms. She immediately jumps up when she sees Glume. Mycel: Hello, Glume. I have a new spell I wanted to show you. Mycel's blue eyes shift and she finally notices the rest of you. Mycel: Oh, you've brought a party. Glyme: It's not a party, Mycel. All of them are looking for tips on how to relax. I found them to be completely unteachable, but I thought you might have more luck. You have more patience when it comes to children. Glume shoots you all a superior look. a) Shall I tell Mycel about your tantrum, Glume? Mycel: Yes, do tell me about Glume's tantrum. Glume: I do NOT throw tantrums. I just had a minor setback is all. Mycel winks at you knowingly, then gestures to several plush azure cushions on the ground. b) Glume's right, we're all very stressed out. Glume heaves a sigh and mutters something about you taking the high road. Glume: And I suppose I could use some help relaxing too. Mycel nods knowingly, then gestures to several plush azure cushions on the ground. c) Say nothing. Glume sniffs, irritated that no one reacted to her provocation. Mycel: You've come to the right place. Mycel nods sagely, then gestures to several plush azure cushions on the ground. Mycel: Why don't you all take a seat? I'd be happy to help you. I am a relaxation expert, after all. a) Do you have a certificate or something? Mycel: They don't give certificates for that sort of thing, world-hopper. But if they did, I would have one. Trout: That's good enough for me! Everyone else nods in agreement that yes, a theoretical certificate is better than none at all. Take a seat. b) Clap your hands eagerly. Mycel: Thank you, world-hopper. An eager student is a successful student. Pinot straightens up at the word "student" and gives an enthusiastic clap as well. Take a seat. c) Take a seat silently. The others follow your lead and sit down on the cushions, which are arranged in a circle. Mycel takes one as well. Mycel: Now, you probably don't know this about me, but I used to be a healer of some renown. People traveled far and wide to seek my remedies. When I wasn't tending to someone's ailment, I was brewing up potions and making poultices. My work was constant, and needless to say, I was always stressed. One day, I was so exhausted I fell asleep in this forest and slept for several days. It was the best sleep I had ever had. When I awoke, I found myself surrounded by glowshrooms. That's when I decided to start studying them. I also decided to take my well-being more seriously. I looked to the forest and the creatures living here to see what I could learn about relaxing. It wouldn't be a stretch to say they saved my life. And now I can pass on what I know to you all. Mycel pauses, and you hear the scritch-scratching of Pinot's pen on his notepad. Mycel: You can put your notes away, Pinot. You won't need them where we're going. Pinot: Wait, where are we going? Mycel: Into the present moment. I'm going to lead in you a meditation. Tuning into yourself in the present is one of the best ways I've found to relax. Pinot tucks his notebook away, though looks pained to do so. Mycel: Now, sit comfortably with your backs straight. You may either close your eyes, or keep them open with a soft focus. a) Close your eyes. b) Keep your eyes open. Mycel: Begin by focusing on your breath. Feel the inward breath, and then the outward breath. If you find you have thoughts popping up, that's okay. Acknowledge the thought without judgement. You find you're thinking about... a) Your next adventure. b) Your place in the universe. c) Dinner. Mycel: Now let those thoughts float away, maybe on a cloud. Any intruding thoughts are swept away, out of your consciousness. Mycel: Next, I would like you to imagine a blue ball of light in your chest. The ball can go wherever there's tension in your body. Send it where you need it most. You send the ball to your... a) Shoulders. b) Brow. c) Stomach. d) Lower back. e) Hips. f) Toes. You imagine the blue ball enveloping the tension in your body, warming it, and melting it away. Mycel: Come back to your breath. In and out. In and out. You breathe. You sit there breathing for who knows how long. Eventually, Mycel tells you to come back to the group. The meditation is over. Mycel: How does everyone feel? Magdalene: Very calm! It was so nice to just quiet my mind for a bit. Trout: I couldn't stop worrying about my turnips, but I think the breathing helped a lot. Maybe I don't breathe enough... Irin: It was interesting. I feel largely the same, but I was able to feel the forest more. Glume: I suppose I'm a bit more relaxed. And what about you, world-hopper? a) Very relaxed! Mycel beams. Pinot clears his throat. b) I couldn't stop worrying. Mycel: That's all right. Just accept the worries, and know that meditation takes practice. That's the beauty of it; every breath is a chance to try again. Mycel gives you an encouraging smile, and Pinot clears his throat. c) I couldn't get comfortable. Mycel: That's all right. Just accept the discomfort, and know that meditation takes practice. That's the beauty of it; every breath is a chance to try again. Mycel gives you an encouraging smile, and Pinot clears his throat. d) It was like a cool shower on a hot day. Mycel: What a lyrical description. You could be a poet, world-hopper. Mycel gives you an encouraging smile, and Pinot clears his throat. Pinot: My mind calmed down for the first time today. It was like I really felt... I don't know, alive, maybe? Mycel: I'm so glad it helped. You know, meditations can be enhanced by one of my potions- Mycel is abruptly cut off by a loud rustling sound in one of the nearby bushes. a) Kick the bushes. You jump up and give the bushes a swift kick. Someone shouts "OW!" in response. Pinot: So much for being calm. Pinot stands up and with your help, you both manage to extract whoever is in the shrubbery. Barclay tumbles out, covered in leaves. b) Yell for Pinot to do something. Pinot: All right, world-hopper, stop yelling! Sheesh, you'd think your calm would've lasted a little longer. Pinot stands up. Facing the bushes, he parts his hands, which in turn parts the shrubbery. Barclay stares back at you all, covered in leaves. c) Sit calmly. Glume: Are you all really just going to sit there? Fine! I'll take care of this myself! Glume stands up and with a dramatic movement, sends three vines plunging into the bushes. You hear a yelp from the shrubbery, and Barclay scrabbles out, covered in leaves. Pinot: Barnacles? Is that you? a) Barclay! You scared me! b) Nice to see you, Barclay! c) Were you spying on us? Barclay manages to get to his feet and spits out a few bits of foliage that were stuck in his mouth. Barclay: Hey, sorry, didn't mean to startle you all. I was just looking for Pinot, and I accidentally fell into those bushes. Pinot mutters something about Barclay being a witch, and how he could easily get out of some shrubbery, but no matter. Pinot: Why were you looking for me? Barclay triumphantly holds up a bag filled with dewdrops. Barclay: I'm making magical water balloons. Wanna throw them at each other? Pinot: Of all the juvenile things... Pinot attempts to look disapproving, but can't help smiling. Mycel: Spending time with friends is another effective relaxation technique. Pinot: Well, he's technically my rival, but... Pinot turns to Barclay. Pinot: Bet I can make a bigger balloon than you. Barclay: You're on! Before Pinot departs, he runs over to you. Pinot: World-hopper, thank you for conducting this research with me today. I think I've learned a lot about relaxing. a) Glad to help! Pinot grasps your hands in thanks, and then dashes off with Barclay. b) You've still got more to learn. Pinot: Believe me, I know but... I'll leave the rest of the research for tomorrow. Now, catch me if you can, Barnacles! In a puff of red smoke, Pinot turns into a crow and begins to fly away. Barclay: Pinot, wait for me! Slow down! The two rivals dash off, and Mycel turns toward the rest of you with a wide smile. Mycel: Nothing like a little relaxation to open the mind. Speaking of, I have a new potion you all must try... The rest of your group exchanges questionable glances, but everyone is too polite to refuse Mycel after she helped you all. Mycel distributes small tumblers filled with a sweet, lavendar-colored liquid. Glume eyes her cup. Glume: It's purple? Not blue? Mycel: I used inspiration from you and Barclay when brewing it, and this is the result. I'm quite pleased with it. You tip the drink back and taste honey lavender with rich, woody notes and a hint of sunshine. Trout: I never thought I'd say this, Mycel, but this is delicious! Everyone agrees, and you while the rest of the day away lounging on the cushions, chatting and laughing with them. Off in the distance, Pinot and Barclay's laughter rings through the trees as they conduct the most epic magic water ballon fight 3's Forest has ever seen.
Rewards: Pinot's Light Academy Spell Circle, Pinot's Greenleaf Academy Spell Circle, Pinot's Cosmic Wispy Cape, 3000 Potatoes, +5 Affection with Pinot

A magic explosion rocks Pinot's tower. He emerges with a flick of fire on his cape.

• a) Tackle Pinot to put out the fire.
• b) Frantically warn Pinot about the fire.

Pinot: A little fire's nothing to get worked up over.

• a) What was that explosion?
• b) Set yourself on fire often, do you?

Pinot explains that an accident happened while working in tandem on multiple projects for the citizens of the forest. He looks tired and dirty.

• a) Sounds like you're working too much.
• b) You know what they say: all work and no play...
• c) Give him a comforting pat on the shoulder.

Pinot: I know I probably should try and relax, but the truth is, I wouldn't even know where to start.

• a) How about taking a few deep breaths?
• b) Lie on the grass and look at the sky.
• c) Try drinking some hot tea.
• d) Dance like no one's watching.
• e) Take a bath.

Pinot does as instructed and takes notes on the effects.

• a) Are you actually taking notes?
• b) Sounds like you're giving yourself more work.

Pinot: But I need to keep track of all the different techniques so I know which ones work. How else will I learn?

• a) You could ask the others.
• b) You could read some books.

Pinot agrees to go around researching how to relax from asking others and asks you to follow along, deciding to go to Irin first.

• a) Gladly! I want to learn more tips too.
• b) Only to save you from yourself.

You find Irin and ask them what they do to relax. They're unfamiliar with the term, which makes them suddenly freeze up.

• a) Poke Irin.
• b) Yell into Irin's face.

Irin explains they tried searching their memory but still doesn't know the word. When told, Irin expresses that stress is temporary and will go away after a few years if ignored. If they have become friends with Magdalene, they say that they usually talk to her when having problems nowadays.

Pinot: Magdalene's so hardworking, though. Do you think she'd be helpful?

• a) Hah, not a chance.
• b) She's a merchant. She knows all about stress.
• c) Different opinions will only help your study.

Irin follows along to learn about relaxing. Magdalene explains that she likes to cook when stressed and asks what you'd like her to cook.

• a) Hot soup.
• b) A big cake.
• c) Roasted sweet potatoes.

Magdalene goes overboard with cooking and makes everything, expressing that she's more stressed than before, but that Trout might know how to relax.

• a) Do we think turnips would be relaxing?
• b) Yes! A farmer would know about relaxing!

Magdalene tags along to Trout's farm. Trout tells you that farm labor is the best thing to clear the mind. You help him farm for an hour before deciding that it's not relaxing for you. Magdalene asks what else Trout does to relax, to which he only lists tasks involving turnips.

• a) That still sounds like work.
• b) Does all your relaxation involve turnips?

Trout realizes that everything in his life revolves around turnips and goes into crisis, pacing around and muttering to himself.

• a) Physically stop Trout.
• b) Tell Trout to take a breath.
• c) Wait for Trout to tire himself out.

Realizing that he also needs to learn to relax, Trout follows along to Irin's next suggestion, Glume, who proclaims herself best at relaxing. She takes you to shoot at practice dummies with a bow and arrow.

• a) Take aim and shoot.
• b) Don't shoot, it's not for you.

To show that she's better than beginner's luck, Glume shoots her vines at the targets but never gets a bullseye. She gets frustrated and her and Pinot gets into an argument over whether she's best at everything or not, before Irin suggests going to Mycel next.

• a) Good idea. Mycel won the witches' war, after all.
• b) Might as well go down the list.
• c) Her potions scare me.

Glume tags along to "make sure you're safe". At Mycel's, Glume tells her she took you there because Mycel has more patience with children.

• a) Shall I tell Mycel about your tantrum, Glume?
• b) Glume's right, we're all very stressed out.
• c) Say nothing.

Mycel: Why don't you all take a seat? I'd be happy to help you. I am a relaxation expert, after all.

• a) Do you have a certificate or something?
• b) Clap your hands eagerly.
• c) Take a seat silently.

Mycel explains that she is going to lead you into meditation.

• a) Close your eyes.
• b) Keep your eyes open.

You find you're thinking about...

• a) Your next adventure.
• b) Your place in the universe.
• c) Dinner.

Mycel tells you to imagine a ball of light in your chest and send it where you need it most. You send the ball to your...

• a) Shoulders.
• b) Brow.
• c) Stomach.
• d) Lower back.
• e) Hips.
• f) Toes.

Everyone comes out of the meditation with different results. Glume asks how you feel.

• a) Very relaxed!
• b) I couldn't stop worrying.
• c) I couldn't get comfortable.
• d) It was like a cool shower on a hot day.

Pinot finds that his mind has calmed down for the first time that day. There's a loud rustling sound in one of the nearby bushes.

• a) Kick the bushes.
• b) Yell for Pinot to do something.
• c) Sit calmly.

Pinot: Barnacles? Is that you?

• a) Barclay! You scared me!
• b) Nice to see you, Barclay!
• c) Were you spying on us?

Barclay explains that he was looking for Pinot and is making magical water balloons. He asks him if he wants to throw them at each other, and Pinot soon agrees.

Pinot: World-hopper, thank you for conducting this research with me today. I think I've learned a lot about relaxing.

• a) Glad to help!
• b) You've still got more to learn.

While the two goes off to have a water balloon fight, Mycel gives the rest of you a liquid inspired by Glume and Barclay, which everyone agrees is delicious.

Quest Rewards
Stat Rewards	3,000 Potatoes	+5 Affection with Pinot
Item Rewards	Pinot's Light Academy Spell Circle	Pinot's Greenleaf Academy Spell Circle
	Pinot's Cosmic Wispy Cape

Site Navigation

Quest Types by Town
Louise Hill	Daily Quests Main Quests Side Quests
Three's Forest	Daily Quests Main Quests Side Quests
The Red Tower	Daily Quests Side Quests
Silvie's Mine	Daily Quests Main Quests Side Quests
Aviar Cove	Daily Quests Main Quests Side Quests
Vaer Reef	Daily Quests Main Quests Side Quests
Peddler's Port	Daily Quests Side Quests
The Frog Pond	Daily Quests