Problem Solving at the Broken Die Inn
When you run an inn long enough, you start to notice patterns.
Not stains — those are their own category — but methods. Ways people approach trouble when it walks through the door, pulls up a chair, and orders something strong enough to regret later.
At the Broken Die Inn, most problems fall into one of two camps. Occasionally three, if a Druid is involved, but we’ll get to that another time.
Tonight, we’ll discuss the loud ones and the quiet ones.
Wizards and the Value of Immediate Resolution
Wizards believe deeply in preparation. Spellbooks. Notes. Components. Careful study. All very reassuring, right up until something actually goes wrong.
When a wizard encounters a problem, there is usually a pause. A thoughtful silence. Sometimes a finger runs down a list.
And then something explodes.
To be fair, the problem is often solved. Permanently. Efficiently. The area around the problem may no longer exist, but from a strictly academic standpoint, the issue has been addressed.
The Broken Die Inn maintains a strict “no fireballs indoors” policy. This policy has been explained many times, written clearly, and posted where anyone with functional eyesight could see it.
It is not as well respected as it should be.
Still, you can’t argue with results. If there was a monster, there is now ash. If there was a lock, there is now a doorway. If there was a negotiation, there is now a crater that no longer wishes to argue.
Wizards solve problems decisively. Loudly. With confidence that borders on optimism.
The west wall has been rebuilt three times because of this philosophy.
Rogues and the Art of Not Being Noticed
Rogues approach problems differently.
When a rogue encounters a locked door, they don’t reach for power. They reach for opportunity. When they see danger, they don’t announce it — they measure it, weigh it, and decide whether it can be turned into an advantage.
Rogues don’t cause scenes. They cause outcomes.
You don’t hear the moment a rogue solves a problem. You notice it afterward. The guard is gone. The lock is open. The purse you were certain you had a moment ago has achieved independence.
Rogues will insist they are not stealing. They are simply correcting inefficient ownership.
I have found it best not to argue this point.
If a wizard leaves scorch marks, a rogue leaves questions. Both require cleaning. One requires a mop. The other requires an inventory.
Why the Inn Keeps Records
These notes are kept for reasons related to insurance, liability, and the simple desire to remember which table is least likely to be set on fire during dinner service.
They also serve as a reminder that there is no single correct way to solve a problem — only consequences that arrive at different speeds.
Some problems need fire.
Some need finesse.
Some need patience, silence, and a very steady hand.
The Broken Die Inn sees all kinds.
Naturally, we stock appropriate attire for each philosophy.
Appropriate attire:
