Rail-Away
Twisted Taverns pg 21
Is it the destination or the journey that’s more important? On the Rail-Away, the industrial crew have decided to offer both! This traveling tavern’s tracks can run through any number of locations- above ground and below, between cities and towns, through the countryside, over the mountains, or along the coast.
The Rail-Away carriages are connected in the order listed, but additional cars can be added as necessary at the GM’s discretion. Unless otherwise noted, each train carriage has a small platform on either end to facilitate moving between the cars while the train is in motion, as well as a ladder to provide access to the top of the train.
The party can board the Rail-Away from their departing station onto any sleeper or amenities car, with or without a ticket, as Prim the Ticketmaster will be moving through the cars after departure. Anyone who has travelled the train before knows not to be caught out without buying a ticket.
The Steam Engine-
The Rail-Away’s engine is a technological marvel for the ages, with two towering smokestacks that never seem to stop puffing away. Both the interior and exterior are a mixture of gleaming black iron, silver pipes, and brass fixtures with some painted accents of red and gold. A cow-catcher grille on the front has saved the train more than once from derailing, though only once was the creature it pushed out of the way an actual cow. Cargo / Livestock Car-
This multi-purpose carriage is one of the smaller of the Rail-Away’s cars but serves three purposes: an area for livestock such as guest’s mounts, a cargo bay for supplies and larger guest items that won’t fit into their room, and a small bedroom with a private washroom for the engineer. While the outside of the carriage is of the same standard as the rest of the train, the inside is bare bones and undecorated. The floors are all plain wood, and some areas are noticeably damaged by the livestock’s “proceedings.” There are no windows, except on the door to the engineer’s room that leads to the engine. There are working lights in the livestock area, but the cargo bay has no built-in lighting. The engineer’s room is spartan, containing only a double bed, a locked chest, a wardrobe, and a writing desk. A small stack of books and ledgers are piled on the desk, but they are covered in a fine layer of dust. The only concession to comfort is that the bathroom includes a claw foot bathtub and an extensive collection of scented soaps, quick-foaming bubble bath, and essential oils. Staff Sleeper Car-
The Staff Sleeper Car outwardly appears the same as the rest of the Rail-Away’s carriages, but the interior has significantly simpler (though still comfortable) decorations and furnishings. Rather than keeping with the opulent tones of the other interiors, the colours here are more muted and earthy to save on upkeep expenses. There are two bathrooms on either end of the carriage, with a toilet, sink, and shower for staff use. There are five bedrooms, each containing four twin-size beds (stacked like bunk beds), a chair, a chest, and two small closets to hang uniforms so they don’t get wrinkled. A storage closet is located near the centre of the carriage. The Saphire, Emerald, and Ruby-
There are three standard sleeper cars, which each contain:
• Four shared bathrooms with toilet, sink, and shower: two on one end and two in the middle of the carriage
• Two large rooms with a double bed, a chest, small armchair, and a small wooden desk with a straight-backed chair
• Five small rooms with a twin bed, a chest, and a chair
• Two large rooms with a double bed, chest, small armchair, and a small wooden desk with a straight-backed chair, plus a private washroom with toilet, sink, and shower
While not spacious, the rooms are all comfortable and more than generous for a train. The Rail-Away prides itself on being more accommodating than many stationary inns, a title that in many ways has been rightfully earned. The only way to tell the sleeper cars apart is by colour and name, with each being decorated in a different colour: royal blue (The Sapphire), deep green (The Emerald), and dark red (The Ruby). The Silver Piece-
The dining car, also known as The Silver Piece, is a comfortable space full of inviting smells and sights, with the grand red velvet window curtains always pulled back so guests can enjoy the passing scenery as they dine. The galley-like kitchen is located within the car, allowing the guests to enjoy watching Somen Gilrona, the halfling chef, prepare their food. Somen’s fast-paced proficiency with her knives (and her cute little stool) are a means of entertainment in their own right. Meals are served throughout the day and can also be ordered directly to a room or a table in the other entertainment cars. There are seven tables that seat up to four, and four tables that seat two. The far right corner holds a table for condiments and utensils as well as pitchers of water and juice. Each table holds a small brass bell that can be rung for service. The tables are always set with crisp linen tablecloths, fine silverware, and a lit candle for atmosphere. The Gold Coin-
The gaming car is called The Gold Coin, and aptly so; many a coin is lost and won here on any given day on both the card and dice tables. However, games of chance are not the only ones on offer here. You can also find guests playing games of Chess, Trail Seeker, Go, Nine Men’s Morris, Knucklebones, Checkers, and Fox and Geese. The entire carriage has an open plan, with tables of various sizes scattered around. Plush carpets layer the floor. Like its name, the colour scheme is garishly gold and practically glitters when the sun comes in the windows in the late afternoon. A cupboard holds a supply of games and cards, though guests can also bring their own. However, any playing cards used for gambling tables where coin is on the line must be staff-provided due to cheating issues in the past. The Gambler is known to frequent this tavern the most, either lounging here or in the Copper Penny. He’ll always be somewhere near a bottle of whiskey, and takes to smoking out of a small pipe when the room’s less populated. He’ll be unusually interested in the party’s intentions, and give them advice regarding how to play the games. The Copper Penny-
The bar car, known as The Copper Penny, is the heart of the Rail-Away. It features a long wooden bar with a rich, smooth patina that comes only with age and the constant mopping up of spilled drinks. Comfortable leather bar stools line the counter, which is where most regular guests prefer to sit, as they are the best seats if you want to talk Raivo the bartender into free or special drinks. Raivo behind the bar is, in fact, what immediately draws anyone’s eye the first time they enter The Copper Penny, as his flaming hair is impossible to ignore. This car is by far the most popular carriage on the Rail-Away and a good place to meet any of the tavern’s guests. There are three four-seater tables and four two seater tables, one being located in the corner for privacy. Alongside the same side of the carriage as the bar is an open area used for entertainment or dancing. For boarding purposes, and to accommodate the loading and unloading of supplies, an additional door is located across from the stage area. The Platinum and the Mithril-
There are two luxury accommodation sleeper cars for wealthy passengers to take advantage of: The Platinum and The Mithril. There are two suites in each carriage, which each include a private washroom (toilet, sink, and shower with brass fittings), a large bedroom (king size bed, wardrobe, desk and chair, two armchairs, and a small table), and an additional small bedroom (double bed and a chest). The small bedroom is most often used by children, retainers, or servants. Many wealthy visitors to the Rail-Away will rent an entire carriage so their important staff are near them, while others have their underlings stay in one of the normal sleeper cars. In keeping with the guests, these cars are sumptuously appointed with comfortable furnishings and many small touches that showcase the Rail-Away’s attention to detail: fresh flowers, a turndown service, and complimentary chocolates. Upon first check-in, guests are treated to a complimentary beverage. The Mercury Observatory-
The Mercury Observatory car is one of the highlights of the Rail-Away. A raised open-air oval platform takes up the entire back end of the carriage, surrounded by iron railings with spear-shaped finials. A large brass telescope is affixed to the platform, providing guests with an opportunity to see the stars—or simply take a closer look at any towns or scenery the train is passing. A number of comfortable deck chairs and small tables are scattered around. Drinks can be ordered directly from any passing staff, or through a communication pipe in the wall. The other half of the carriage is enclosed, but it still offers excellent visibility as it resembles a glass greenhouse with a tri-peaked roof. This way, guests can enjoy the view even in inclement weather. Couches and chairs with plump cushions are available, as well as some potted plants, which adds to the greenhouse atmosphere and lends a sense of privacy for late-night fun.
The Quest Board-
A chalkboard is located in the dining car and bears some scrawled requests for help from either tavern operators or guests. Some handwriting is very fine and cultured, while some is barely legible.
The Cheat-
Undercover help wanted. Discretion is a must. See Kogan Hamfist for details.
The Delivery-
Courier needed for a simple delivery job. Please see Dretin Dalmura, the Sapphire car.
Rusted!-
If you’ve a weapon handy & don’t mind getting your hands dirty, see the engineer. Better yet, know some spells.
The Stowaway-
Help Wanted. See Prim.
Dinner’s On You-
Experienced Hunters Needed Immediately! See the Chef before our next stop.
The party can board the Rail-Away from their departing station onto any sleeper or amenities car, with or without a ticket, as Prim the Ticketmaster will be moving through the cars after departure. Anyone who has travelled the train before knows not to be caught out without buying a ticket.
The Steam Engine-
The Rail-Away’s engine is a technological marvel for the ages, with two towering smokestacks that never seem to stop puffing away. Both the interior and exterior are a mixture of gleaming black iron, silver pipes, and brass fixtures with some painted accents of red and gold. A cow-catcher grille on the front has saved the train more than once from derailing, though only once was the creature it pushed out of the way an actual cow. Cargo / Livestock Car-
This multi-purpose carriage is one of the smaller of the Rail-Away’s cars but serves three purposes: an area for livestock such as guest’s mounts, a cargo bay for supplies and larger guest items that won’t fit into their room, and a small bedroom with a private washroom for the engineer. While the outside of the carriage is of the same standard as the rest of the train, the inside is bare bones and undecorated. The floors are all plain wood, and some areas are noticeably damaged by the livestock’s “proceedings.” There are no windows, except on the door to the engineer’s room that leads to the engine. There are working lights in the livestock area, but the cargo bay has no built-in lighting. The engineer’s room is spartan, containing only a double bed, a locked chest, a wardrobe, and a writing desk. A small stack of books and ledgers are piled on the desk, but they are covered in a fine layer of dust. The only concession to comfort is that the bathroom includes a claw foot bathtub and an extensive collection of scented soaps, quick-foaming bubble bath, and essential oils. Staff Sleeper Car-
The Staff Sleeper Car outwardly appears the same as the rest of the Rail-Away’s carriages, but the interior has significantly simpler (though still comfortable) decorations and furnishings. Rather than keeping with the opulent tones of the other interiors, the colours here are more muted and earthy to save on upkeep expenses. There are two bathrooms on either end of the carriage, with a toilet, sink, and shower for staff use. There are five bedrooms, each containing four twin-size beds (stacked like bunk beds), a chair, a chest, and two small closets to hang uniforms so they don’t get wrinkled. A storage closet is located near the centre of the carriage. The Saphire, Emerald, and Ruby-
There are three standard sleeper cars, which each contain:
• Four shared bathrooms with toilet, sink, and shower: two on one end and two in the middle of the carriage
• Two large rooms with a double bed, a chest, small armchair, and a small wooden desk with a straight-backed chair
• Five small rooms with a twin bed, a chest, and a chair
• Two large rooms with a double bed, chest, small armchair, and a small wooden desk with a straight-backed chair, plus a private washroom with toilet, sink, and shower
While not spacious, the rooms are all comfortable and more than generous for a train. The Rail-Away prides itself on being more accommodating than many stationary inns, a title that in many ways has been rightfully earned. The only way to tell the sleeper cars apart is by colour and name, with each being decorated in a different colour: royal blue (The Sapphire), deep green (The Emerald), and dark red (The Ruby). The Silver Piece-
The dining car, also known as The Silver Piece, is a comfortable space full of inviting smells and sights, with the grand red velvet window curtains always pulled back so guests can enjoy the passing scenery as they dine. The galley-like kitchen is located within the car, allowing the guests to enjoy watching Somen Gilrona, the halfling chef, prepare their food. Somen’s fast-paced proficiency with her knives (and her cute little stool) are a means of entertainment in their own right. Meals are served throughout the day and can also be ordered directly to a room or a table in the other entertainment cars. There are seven tables that seat up to four, and four tables that seat two. The far right corner holds a table for condiments and utensils as well as pitchers of water and juice. Each table holds a small brass bell that can be rung for service. The tables are always set with crisp linen tablecloths, fine silverware, and a lit candle for atmosphere. The Gold Coin-
The gaming car is called The Gold Coin, and aptly so; many a coin is lost and won here on any given day on both the card and dice tables. However, games of chance are not the only ones on offer here. You can also find guests playing games of Chess, Trail Seeker, Go, Nine Men’s Morris, Knucklebones, Checkers, and Fox and Geese. The entire carriage has an open plan, with tables of various sizes scattered around. Plush carpets layer the floor. Like its name, the colour scheme is garishly gold and practically glitters when the sun comes in the windows in the late afternoon. A cupboard holds a supply of games and cards, though guests can also bring their own. However, any playing cards used for gambling tables where coin is on the line must be staff-provided due to cheating issues in the past. The Gambler is known to frequent this tavern the most, either lounging here or in the Copper Penny. He’ll always be somewhere near a bottle of whiskey, and takes to smoking out of a small pipe when the room’s less populated. He’ll be unusually interested in the party’s intentions, and give them advice regarding how to play the games. The Copper Penny-
The bar car, known as The Copper Penny, is the heart of the Rail-Away. It features a long wooden bar with a rich, smooth patina that comes only with age and the constant mopping up of spilled drinks. Comfortable leather bar stools line the counter, which is where most regular guests prefer to sit, as they are the best seats if you want to talk Raivo the bartender into free or special drinks. Raivo behind the bar is, in fact, what immediately draws anyone’s eye the first time they enter The Copper Penny, as his flaming hair is impossible to ignore. This car is by far the most popular carriage on the Rail-Away and a good place to meet any of the tavern’s guests. There are three four-seater tables and four two seater tables, one being located in the corner for privacy. Alongside the same side of the carriage as the bar is an open area used for entertainment or dancing. For boarding purposes, and to accommodate the loading and unloading of supplies, an additional door is located across from the stage area. The Platinum and the Mithril-
There are two luxury accommodation sleeper cars for wealthy passengers to take advantage of: The Platinum and The Mithril. There are two suites in each carriage, which each include a private washroom (toilet, sink, and shower with brass fittings), a large bedroom (king size bed, wardrobe, desk and chair, two armchairs, and a small table), and an additional small bedroom (double bed and a chest). The small bedroom is most often used by children, retainers, or servants. Many wealthy visitors to the Rail-Away will rent an entire carriage so their important staff are near them, while others have their underlings stay in one of the normal sleeper cars. In keeping with the guests, these cars are sumptuously appointed with comfortable furnishings and many small touches that showcase the Rail-Away’s attention to detail: fresh flowers, a turndown service, and complimentary chocolates. Upon first check-in, guests are treated to a complimentary beverage. The Mercury Observatory-
The Mercury Observatory car is one of the highlights of the Rail-Away. A raised open-air oval platform takes up the entire back end of the carriage, surrounded by iron railings with spear-shaped finials. A large brass telescope is affixed to the platform, providing guests with an opportunity to see the stars—or simply take a closer look at any towns or scenery the train is passing. A number of comfortable deck chairs and small tables are scattered around. Drinks can be ordered directly from any passing staff, or through a communication pipe in the wall. The other half of the carriage is enclosed, but it still offers excellent visibility as it resembles a glass greenhouse with a tri-peaked roof. This way, guests can enjoy the view even in inclement weather. Couches and chairs with plump cushions are available, as well as some potted plants, which adds to the greenhouse atmosphere and lends a sense of privacy for late-night fun.
A chalkboard is located in the dining car and bears some scrawled requests for help from either tavern operators or guests. Some handwriting is very fine and cultured, while some is barely legible.
The Cheat-
Undercover help wanted. Discretion is a must. See Kogan Hamfist for details.
The Delivery-
Courier needed for a simple delivery job. Please see Dretin Dalmura, the Sapphire car.
Rusted!-
If you’ve a weapon handy & don’t mind getting your hands dirty, see the engineer. Better yet, know some spells.
The Stowaway-
Help Wanted. See Prim.
Dinner’s On You-
Experienced Hunters Needed Immediately! See the Chef before our next stop.
Type
Pub / Tavern / Restaurant
Parent Location
Owner
Ruling/Owning Rank
Related Report (Secondary Locations)
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