The Teller of Small Fortunes

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of racism.

Tao awakens in a featherbed in the Guildtower, surprised to find Mash, Silt, and Kina at her bedside. They explain that they attempted to rescue her but were caught, and then High Mage Melea brought them to her after she learned they were Tao’s friends. The reunion is emotional, with Tao crying when Kina gives her a cinnamon bun she baked for her, seeing it as a tangible reminder that her friends came for her despite the dangers. Mash is deeply moved upon learning that Tao extracted a promise from the Guild to search for his daughter Leah throughout the kingdom.

High Mage Melea visits and confirms that Tao’s vision about Shinara experiencing civil war rather than invading Eshtera has been useful to the Crown. She addresses their questions about Master Jacopo, revealing he’s a scheming Guild member who acted independently when sending them on the phoenix quest, likely to eliminate competition or gain a valuable artifact. After recovering, Tao negotiates additional compensation for her services beyond the standard 500 silver reward. These include horses for Mash and Silt, and a new gnomish oven for Kina.