Quest 014: Roots of Iron

Contract Summary

Benefactor: "Iron-Hand" Kael, Smith's Guild Representative
Compensation: Very Lucrative (500 ceramic pieces or custom ironwork)
Stated Danger: Mixed (Location: 2, Target: 6)
Location: The "Rust Gutter" Mines, abandoned sector.

Mission Briefing

The Job

The Smith's Guild has uncovered records of a pre-Green-Age excavation machine, the "Mole-Class Excavator," left in a collapsed mine shaft centuries ago. Metal is rare; a machine made of high-grade alloy is priceless. The Guild is hired to enter the unstable mine, locate the machine, and secure it for extraction crews.

Intelligence Objectives

1. Primary: Locate the Excavator.
2. Secondary: Clear the immediate area of infestation (Ankhegs reported).
3. Tertiary: Retrieve the "Core Engine" if the whole chassis cannot be moved.

Area of Interest

The Rust Gutter is old, unstable, and prone to gas pockets.

Client Terms

• Salvage Rights: The party may keep any loose scrap found, but the Machine is property of the Smith's Guild.
• Hazard Pay: Bonus if the mine is cleared of threats.

Known Complications

• Ankhegs are territorial.
• Gas leaks require caution (no open flames).

Guild Assessment

Recommended Team Size: 3-4 members
Required Skills: Dungeoneering, Engineering/Lockpicking, Combat
Estimated Duration: 2 days