* Episode 99! Next week our 100th episode with special guest Opti, aka Scratch.

* Paths in Depth: The Messenger

* Development history; first appearance in RedBrick’s Namegiver’s Compendium.

* Setting origins as obsidiman messengers being highly desired for inter-city communication.

* Original version didn’t feel like its role in a game was considered.

* Pop culture inspiration: The Postman, Book of Eli, pony express.

* Strong thematic presence in the setting and historical resonance.

* “A collective of dedicated wanderers.”

* Unsworn to any individual in a position of power; dedication to remaining neutral.

* Relationship (or lack thereof) with Blood Wood.

* Not just messages, also sometimes goods, but information also valuable.

* Also a secretive cabal dedicated to keeping Barsaive free.

* A network of wanderers is excellent at keeping its finger on the pulse of affairs in Barsaive, putting important information in the right hands at the right time to support their objective.

* Reminiscent of the Harpers from Forgotten Realms.

* Campaign hook: What happens to that kind of network if it is compromised or under the thumb of one who seeks their own power?

* Potential for cloak-and-dagger, Cold-War-spy-thriller activity.

* Perhaps the Messengers have insight into the deeper secrets because of their intelligence network.

* Possibility of a secret group within the broader path; lower ranking members may not be fully aware of the spy network.

* Favorable Disciplines: Illusionist, Scout, Troubadour, Thief.

* Affiliated Passions: Floranuus, Lochost, Mynbruje, and Vestrial.

* Questors are very rare because of desire to be independent from outside authority.

* Initiation and Advancement rituals.

* Solitude to the Messenger’s duty.

* Messenger work can form a solid adventure or campaign framework.

* Advancement rank bonuses.

* Talent options: Nothing unique or flashy. Abilities to help the Messenger do their job.

* Knacks: Lots of tricks to enhance the talents and abilities most useful to the Messenger’s mission.

* Closing thoughts.

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