Maintaining a sense of humor despite his wounds, Dunkin extends a hand and bows with a flourish, allowing Sildar to exit the chute. “After you, good sir.” Dunkin then follows.
"So, now we're all out, are we going back to finish off Klarg? Or are we heading for civilisation and sorting Klarg at a later date?" Nyli looks around. "If we're heading for Phandalin we'd best get started while it's still light enough for us to find our way back to the road."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
“Let’s get Sildar to Phandelin, grab a bit of equipment drop Gundren’s load off and see if anyone knows anything about these Cragmaws. That’s my vote anyway, if ya wanna exterminate these pests I’ll stay with all of ya too.” Chase looks ready to fight or head out…
“Aye,” Dunkin agrees. “We must not forget that Gundren is still missing. While I don’t like leaving a mess like Klarg behind, perhaps it’s not our fight. There’s still the matter of finding our benefactor.”
And getting some rest, the injured halfling thinks.
You all exit the cave without incident and with Sildar. The mid-afternoon sun shines down. Your ox is still there; your goblin prisoner, Big-Sneeze, is not. Your rope lies roughly cut at the base of the tree where you left her.
A DC 11 Wisdom (Survival) check reveals:
Two sets of goblin tracks approach Big-Sneeze's former location. Three sets of goblin tracks lead south down the goblin trail a ways.
A DC 16 Wisdom (Survival) check reveals:
Half a mile to the south, Big-Sneeze and Goblins K and L are in the nearby woods about a hundred feet off the trail, sharpening sticks into spears. If approached, they will snarl and brandish their spears, but a DC 14 Wisdom (Insight) check reveals that they are bluffing and will run away in terror if you get within 50 ft. They have half cover from the trees and if they flee their Stealth roll is 24. They won't approach when they think you're on high alert.
Your missing prisoner aside, the trip back down the goblin trail goes smoothly. Nyli finds the wagon untouched, all contents secure and accounted for.
In the declining glow of twilight, as the rutted track emerges from a wooded hillside, and you catch your first glimpse of Phandalin. The town consists of forty or fifty simple log buildings, some built on old fieldstone foundations. More old ruins—crumbling stone walls covered in ivy and briars—surround the newer houses and shops, showing how this must have been a much larger town in centuries past. Most of the newer buildings are set on the sides of the cart track, which widens into a muddy main street of sorts as it climbs toward a ruined manor house on a hillside at the east side of town.
OOC:
Prepare your characters to ascend to level 2 upon completing their next long rest, wherever that may be. Congratulations in advance!
If you choose to rest or do something else before you get to Phandalin, disregard the last section for now (or the last 2 sections if you want to do something before reaching the wagon). There are other locations you may choose to go in Phandalin, such as some other shops, etc., but they are closed until I reread the next chapter of the adventure for the night.
If any character has been to Phandalin before, please tell me about it.
For Nyli:
What is Nyli's unfinished business in Phandalin? You can send it to me as a private message if you want it to be a secret.
At the site of Phandalin, Dunkin lets out a sigh. "A long rest (and perhaps an ale) would do me well friends, see'in as these cuts are still fresh. In fact, several of us are still carryin' mighty wounds. I say, 'lead on, Sildar!'" Mebbe' we can also gain some knowledge about Gundren, he thinks.
Chase retires to a room to sleep in a bed off the ground. When morning comes he will come down early to buy a (wealthy) breakfast -3sp, settle for his (comfortable) room -8sp, and look for Sildar.
-11sp total perception 10.
If Sildar’s not up just yet, he’ll ask around about Cragmaw goblins (including the innkeeper, Toblen Stonehill) being active in the area see if anyone else has gone missing recently…
Insight 5.
After a bit he’ll also head to Phandlin Miner’s Exchange where he will ask about the Cragmaw’s and Gundren, and inquire about special metal ingots… (just RP on his personal project).
Insight 5 (lol not a morning guy I guess)
* upon arrival at the inn Chase purchases the offered soap (-5cp). And washes prior to sleeping.
Vasha stretches out on the modest bed, the aches of the day's earlier battle still clinging to his muscles. The dim light from the window barely illuminates the room, but his bedmate says nothing, even when the sickly green dancing lights flicker into existence in the early hours of the morning. Vasha groans, swatting at them half-heartedly, but eventually they fade, allowing him a bit more rest before dawn.
He’s up early, chewing through his rations with a mechanical sort of focus. His mind, however, is on Sildar and the promise of gold. As soon as the older man appears, Vasha is on him like a shadow, pestering him relentlessly until Sildar heads out to secure the loan. Once the coin is in his hand, Vasha finally relaxes, pocketing the gold with a satisfied nod.
At the Lionshield Coster, Vasha spends his earnings on a sturdy new chain shirt, running a hand over the metal links with a grin. As the shopkeep tallies up the cost, he leans against the counter, his voice low and smooth as he asks, “You know of any work around here? Something to keep my coin pouch full? I usually do protection gigs, but anything needing some muscle is probably fine.”
Nyli has a comfortable night. She rises early and takes breakfast before heading out. As she passes Chase she says that she's going to check in on an acquaintance and should be back shortly.
Raising her hood and looking around carefully, she slips off into the town.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
Doldek will purchase a comfortable room and meal at the inn. After breakfast he returns to Barthen's Provisions where he goes over a meticulous list of charcoal, herbs, incense, and finally a brass brazier. "I shall be preoccupied for the next hour or so." he tells his companions before seeking out a solitary place on the outskirts of town. He casts the ritual Find Familiar, summoning a bat. "Your senses may prove useful should we find ourselves back in goblin caves." Upon completion, he will return to Sildar to discuss the next course of action.
In the center of town stands the Stonehill Inn, a large, newly built roadhouse of fieldstone and rough-hewn timbers. The common room is clearing out, last call having passed already. Locals finish their last mugs of ale or cider, all of them eyeing you with curiosity. A short human man (Toblen Stonehill, he/him) is collecting dishes on a tray. He looks up at you as you enter. "Welcome, weary travelers," he says. A DC 5 Wisdom (Insight) Check reveals:
Mr. Stonehill visibly notices your injuries, but does not react. He's not shocked at all.
"Are you looking to stay the night? My name is Toblen Stonehill. I own this establishment." He shows anyone who accepts his offer to their beds and offers water basins for anyone who wants to bathe. He sells bars of soap for 5 copper pieces each.
If Sildar’s not up just yet, [Chase will] ask around about Cragmaw goblins (including the innkeeper, Toblen Stonehill) being active in the area see if anyone else has gone missing recently…
The comely, young, human woman who served you your hearty, delicious, luxury breakfast, Mrs. Trilena Stonehill, says, “There have been a lot of disappearances lately, Mr. Kragen. It's just terrible! Thel Dendrar, the woodcarver, he stood up to those dirty, rotten scoundrels, the Redbrands, a tenday ago when they came by his shop and leered at his wife. And they murdered him! In broad daylight! I can't believe what this town has become. Several townsfolk saw this happen. The ruffians took Thel's body, and now his wife, daughter, and son have gone missing too. I guess you could say that's one murder and three disappearances.”
There are three others who are currently eating breakfast in the inn's common room, all humans: a farmer (Narth, he/him), a miner (Lanar, he/him), and a weaver (Freda, she/her). They are not-so-subtly listening in on Chase's conversation with Mrs. Stonehill. Also present is a young boy who resembles Mrs. Stonehill (Pip, he/him) who is buzzing around the room, and a bubbly barmaid (Elsa, she/her), who's currently serving other tables.
After a bit [Chase will] also head to Phandalin Miner’s Exchange where he will ask about the Cragmaw’s and Gundren, and inquire about special metal ingots… (just RP on his personal project).
The Phandalin Miner's Exchange, located in the southwest side of town, is a bastion of order in this frontier town. On the left wall hangs a large map of the countryside surrounding Phandalin, heavily annotated with the claims of various miners and prospectors. A few claims are still untaken.
Behind a counter sits Guildmaster Halia Thornton, a human woman. A set of scales stands on the counter to her left, an inkwell and set of pens to her right. Stacks of papers, neatly organized, cover most other surfaces in her office area.
Replying to Chase's inquiries, Guildmaster Thornton says, "If the Cragmaws took him, I wouldn't hold out hope for Mr. Rockseeker. I'm glad he put a deposit down on his claim already. His two brothers might be around. I haven't heard from them lately. Speaking of the Cragmaws, I believe one of their goblins is working with those punks, the Redbrands." Guildmaster Thornton shrugs. "The ores you're looking for are very rare. I can get them if you give me a month, but you'll have to join the Miner's Guild first; there's a 50 Gp fee. For the quantity you need, I estimate the price will be 2,500 Gp."
Vasha stretches out on the modest bed, the aches of the day's earlier battle still clinging to his muscles. The dim light from the window barely illuminates the room, but his bedmate says nothing, even when the sickly green dancing lights flicker into existence in the early hours of the morning. Vasha groans, swatting at them half-heartedly, but eventually they fade, allowing him a bit more rest before dawn.
He’s up early, chewing through his rations with a mechanical sort of focus. His mind, however, is on Sildar and the promise of gold. As soon as the older man appears, Vasha is on him like a shadow, pestering him relentlessly until Sildar heads out to secure the loan. Once the coin is in his hand, Vasha finally relaxes, pocketing the gold with a satisfied nod.
At the Lionshield Coster, Vasha spends his earnings on a sturdy new chain shirt, running a hand over the metal links with a grin. As the shopkeep tallies up the cost, he leans against the counter, his voice low and smooth as he asks, “You know of any work around here? Something to keep my coin pouch full? I usually do protection gigs, but anything needing some muscle is probably fine.”
Persuasion 17
Vasha follows Sildar all the way to townmaster's hall. The townmaster’s hall has sturdy stone walls, a pitched wooden roof, and a bell tower at the back. Posted on a board next to the front door is a notice written in Common. It reads: “REWARD — Orcs near Wyvern Tor! Those of a mind to face the orc menace should inquire within.” The notice bears the town’s seal and an indecipherable signature. Sildar says, "I will meet with Mayor Wester. He will loan me the money I need to get my affairs back in order. That includes paying you. You are welcome to join me.
If Vasha (or another PC) joins the meeting:
Mayor Harbin Wester (he/him) is a portly human man wearing in a dark gray suit and a monocle. He offers 100 Gp to any party which takes care of the orcs near Wyvern Tor.
After the meeting, Sildar will go briefly to Stonehill Inn to pay you all. If any PC is not present, Sildar will leave the gold with Mr. Stonehill. Sildar then returns to Townmaster Hall, stopping at the Lionshield Coster on the way to purchase a longsword and chain mail.
Hanging above the front door of the Lionshield Coster, modest trading post, is a sign shaped like a wooden shield with a blue lion painted on it. Inside, rows of weapons hang from the walls. Wooden manikins model various types of armor. The shopkeeper, Linene Graywind, a human woman, complains to Sildar, Vasha, and anyone else who will listen, about how terrible things are. "Why do we even have roads if my shipments don't arrive on them? I'm going to run out of inventory next tenday at this rate," she says as sells Vasha the chain shirt. "Business is booming and I have to keep up with demand. Those Redbrand thugs have got the whole town interested in self-defense. Hey, I bet someone would pay you to deal with them."
Linene also mentions that she would pay 50 Gp for information on her latest missing shipment of scimitars, shortbows, and other goods, which was supposed to arrive from Neverwinter last month, and 100 Gp if it is recovered.
Nyli has a comfortable night. She rises early and takes breakfast before heading out. As she passes Chase she says that she's going to check in on an acquaintance and should be back shortly.
Raising her hood and looking around carefully, she slips off into the town.
Nyli heads across the street to the Shrine of Luck, a small temple built from mismatched stones. Standing between the chancel and nave is an elf (Sister Garaele, she/her) dressed in black robes with gold trim, affixed to which is a silver pin shaped like a harp. She also has some bandages on her arms and head.
A DC 10 Intelligence (History) check for magic items (Nyli may roll at advantage) reveals:
This is a Harper pin, enchanted to have the effect of a Ring of Mind Shielding and signifying that Sister Garaele is an agent of the Harpers, a semi-secret, scattered network of adventurers and spies who advocate equality and covertly oppose the abuse of power. The Harpers gather information throughout the land to thwart tyrants and any leader, government, or group that grows too strong. They aid the weak, the poor, and the oppressed.
She closes a book and smiles broadly when Nyli enters. "Nyli, how fortunate it is to to see you again! How have you been? and why did you return?" Sister Garaele looks to the east briefly, then turns back to Nyli.
In town John will stop by the town guard and tell them of the bug bear threat and where the cave is.
John will see if his rank as a corporal in the Neverwinter guard nets him a bunk at the barracks if not he will sleep in the cheapest room at the inn.
John quickly finds out that there is, in fact, no town guard in Phandalin. The closest thing is, now that he's arrived, Sildar, who's established himself at the Townmaster's Hall. He says to John, "It seems this town's sheriff was murdered two months ago and Mayor Wester has not been able to find a replacement. Mayor Wester offers to let you sleep one of the Townmaster Hall's empty jail cells for free. It's in the basement, but it's reasonably clean and quiet.
Regarding the Klarg and the Cragmaws, Mayor Wester says, "I'm sure someone will deal with that problem." Having heard that, Sildar rolls his eyes and renews his offer to you, 30 Gp each for Klarg's head, plus you can keep any stolen items which are not able to be returned. He goes on to mention that the Cragmaw goblins are much larger than just Klarg. "From what I learned listening to the goblins in that disgusting cave, the Cragmaws have taken up residence in a castle somewhere. I would reward your party 500 Gp if you defeat this main force."
Doldek will purchase a comfortable room and meal at the inn. After breakfast he returns to Barthen's Provisions where he goes over a meticulous list of charcoal, herbs, incense, and finally a brass brazier. "I shall be preoccupied for the next hour or so." he tells his companions before seeking out a solitary place on the outskirts of town. He casts the ritual Find Familiar, summoning a bat. "Your senses may prove useful should we find ourselves back in goblin caves." Upon completion, he will return to Sildar to discuss the next course of action.
When Doldek enters Barthen's Provisions, he is greeted by a lean and balding human male shopkeeper of fifty years with a kindly manner (Elmar Barthen, he/him). He employs a couple of young clerks (Ander (he/him) and Thistle (she/her)). "You wouldn't happen to be the one of the people Gundren hired, would you? I see his wagon out by the inn and I've never seen you before. You should really get it off the street, or it's liable to be stolen. Did Gundren come in with you?" If Doldek confirms that it is Gundren's wagon, Barthen gives Doldek 60 Gp to be distributed to the party and offers to send his assistants to unload the wagon and bring it to a stable at the Alderleaf Farm. "We can get you a discount there," Barthen says. "Only 2 silver pieces a day for stabling, including food for the oxen!"
When Doldek casts his spell, a bat flies up out of the flames. It flaps around a bit and latches on to his shirt, hanging upside down.
When Doldek goes to talk to Sildar, he hears the same speech John got above. Sildar adds, "I had planned to visit the Tresendar Manor this morning, but the mayor told me it is abandoned. I hoped to find my friend, Iarno Albrek, living there. The mayor says he went missing two months ago. I'm worried about him. He's a short, dark-bearded human wizard in his thirties. Perhaps you and your associates could investigate.”
OOC:
If you haven't already, level up to 2.
There's a lot of NPCs and a lot of side-quests you can do at this point. There's plenty of time in-game to do it all if you want, even with Gundren's doom looming. I can answer any clarifying questions.
Here's a copy of my message from this morning for reference:
I didn't give you all that much to work with in Phandalin in my last post. I'll write another post later today with an actual description of the town, but for now know that the innkeeper's name is Toblen Stonehill (human; he/him) and he does have rooms available at the Stonehill Inn.
@HunterOrien is correct that you can use the Expenses section in Chapter 5 of the PhB to estimate costs for staying at the inn, which offers Modest, Comfortable, and Wealthy options. You'll only get your own room with the Wealthy option; Comfortable has bunks; and with Modest you'll have to share a bed with another customer of modest means. There are other options if you ask, or you can camp out in the woods for free (and get free food if you're proficient in Survival and want to spend your time doing that).
Sildar will pay you 30 Gp each. He will get a loan from the mayor in the morning to pay you.
You should have gotten the first 10 Gp for the wagon delivery before the start of the adventure (if you didn't add it to your character sheet then, you can do so now), and you will get 10 more from Elmar Barthen, the owner of Barthen's provisions. Your characters would know that the original contract you had with Gundren was to deliver the contents of the wagon to Barthen's warehouse. You can hold on to the wagon and the oxen. There is a stable in town you can rent space in.
I don't enjoy role playing shopping scenes, so you can just put the transaction in the OOC section of a post describing how you went to a certain store. If you want to accomplish something in addition to shopping, which I encourage you to do, you can initiate it. Certain events may occur during shopping trips, too. I will describe the people you meet around town and the notable locations.
The main shops in Phandalin are Barthen's Provisions, which sells all the adventuring gear listed in the PhB; the Lionshield Coster, which sells the weapons and armor listed in the PhB; and the Phandalin Miner's Exchange, which buys and sells ores and minerals, etc. Your characters would know this just from walking through town and reading the shops' signs and looking in the windows.
Nyli enters the shrine, bows to Sister Garaele and says politely "Greetings Sister, and blessings to you." As she stands again she goes back to her normal speech "Good to see you again, still in the wars I see."
Looking around she lowers her voice and nods at the bandages "More trouble? or are those from your previous dealings with glasstaff's goons?" She pauses and lowers her voice further "No help from err.. your musical associates?"
She tells Sister Garaele what has passed recently and why she's back in town, and in turn being told what has happened since she left. After a quick catch-up she bows again to Sister Garaele and turns to leave, but stops, turning back. "Thinking about it, the group I'm with are fairly capable. The goons may be in for a shock if they try any of their usual tricks against them."
With a cheery "see ya again" she leaves the shrine and heads off to join the others.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
Goblins, orcs, more goblins—Vasha mulls over the endless list of bounties as he strolls back toward the inn, his grin growing with each passing thought. Maybe exterminator is the right career path after all. The feel of the new chain shirt, still stiff against his skin, brings a sense of pride. It’s modest armor, nothing flashy, but it’s his—paid for with his own gold earned honestly. Every rattle of the metal links as he walks serves as a reminder of how far he’s come from being a hired thug with barely a copper to his name.
When he steps into the inn, Vasha can’t help but flash a grin as he rejoins the others, his new armor barely visible beneath his clothes. “Missing weapons shipments,” he says, voice smooth and calm. “Sounds like someone’s been hitting caravans hard, and the owner wants them back. What do ya bet it’s Klarg? We should bring the cart when we head back to the cave.” He glances around at the group, gauging their reactions.
Chase smiles as he sees Vasha’s new chain, “Fine armor yer wearin’ an I agree with yer idea but I think we got to bring Klarg back here alive. He needs ta answer some questions and be an example fer some killers here in town. Maybe a good ol execution will change a few people’s perspectives on their lives. Or at least we can get some answers about Mr.Rockseeker.” Chase looks a little irritated but politely keeps it bottled up.
Earlier at the Phandelin Miner’s Exchange, “Aye consider me joined!” Chase sets his two banded agates alongside 30 gold coins on the counter. “You should get them ores requested and on their way. I’ll get the price ye’ve mentioned. One more question have ya got any copies of that claims map?”
Maintaining a sense of humor despite his wounds, Dunkin extends a hand and bows with a flourish, allowing Sildar to exit the chute. “After you, good sir.” Dunkin then follows.
John leaves the cave as quickly as he can in the limited light
Doldek will carefully descend the chute.
"So, now we're all out, are we going back to finish off Klarg? Or are we heading for civilisation and sorting Klarg at a later date?" Nyli looks around. "If we're heading for Phandalin we'd best get started while it's still light enough for us to find our way back to the road."
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
“Let’s get Sildar to Phandelin, grab a bit of equipment drop Gundren’s load off and see if anyone knows anything about these Cragmaws. That’s my vote anyway, if ya wanna exterminate these pests I’ll stay with all of ya too.” Chase looks ready to fight or head out…
“Yeah,” Vasha agrees, “let’s finish the first job, deliver the wagon, and prepare ourselves properly to clear out the goblins.”
“Aye,” Dunkin agrees. “We must not forget that Gundren is still missing. While I don’t like leaving a mess like Klarg behind, perhaps it’s not our fight. There’s still the matter of finding our benefactor.”
And getting some rest, the injured halfling thinks.
"OK, off we go then. I'll nip ahead and check the cart's still there."
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
You all exit the cave without incident and with Sildar. The mid-afternoon sun shines down. Your ox is still there; your goblin prisoner, Big-Sneeze, is not. Your rope lies roughly cut at the base of the tree where you left her.
A DC 11 Wisdom (Survival) check reveals:
Two sets of goblin tracks approach Big-Sneeze's former location. Three sets of goblin tracks lead south down the goblin trail a ways.
A DC 16 Wisdom (Survival) check reveals:
Half a mile to the south, Big-Sneeze and Goblins K and L are in the nearby woods about a hundred feet off the trail, sharpening sticks into spears. If approached, they will snarl and brandish their spears, but a DC 14 Wisdom (Insight) check reveals that they are bluffing and will run away in terror if you get within 50 ft. They have half cover from the trees and if they flee their Stealth roll is 24. They won't approach when they think you're on high alert.
Your missing prisoner aside, the trip back down the goblin trail goes smoothly. Nyli finds the wagon untouched, all contents secure and accounted for.
In the declining glow of twilight, as the rutted track emerges from a wooded hillside, and you catch your first glimpse of Phandalin. The town consists of forty or fifty simple log buildings, some built on old fieldstone foundations. More old ruins—crumbling stone walls covered in ivy and briars—surround the newer houses and shops, showing how this must have been a much larger town in centuries past. Most of the newer buildings are set on the sides of the cart track, which widens into a muddy main street of sorts as it climbs toward a ruined manor house on a hillside at the east side of town.
OOC:
Prepare your characters to ascend to level 2 upon completing their next long rest, wherever that may be. Congratulations in advance!
If you choose to rest or do something else before you get to Phandalin, disregard the last section for now (or the last 2 sections if you want to do something before reaching the wagon). There are other locations you may choose to go in Phandalin, such as some other shops, etc., but they are closed
until I reread the next chapter of the adventurefor the night.If any character has been to Phandalin before, please tell me about it.
For Nyli:
What is Nyli's unfinished business in Phandalin? You can send it to me as a private message if you want it to be a secret.
At the site of Phandalin, Dunkin lets out a sigh. "A long rest (and perhaps an ale) would do me well friends, see'in as these cuts are still fresh. In fact, several of us are still carryin' mighty wounds. I say, 'lead on, Sildar!'" Mebbe' we can also gain some knowledge about Gundren, he thinks.
"The inn sounds good, maybe we can get rid of the stench of goblin!"
Nyli heads for the inn keeping her hood up and trying to be inconspicuous 'I hope people here have short memories'.
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
Chase retires to a room to sleep in a bed off the ground. When morning comes he will come down early to buy a (wealthy) breakfast -3sp, settle for his (comfortable) room -8sp, and look for Sildar.
-11sp total perception 10.
If Sildar’s not up just yet, he’ll ask around about Cragmaw goblins (including the innkeeper, Toblen Stonehill) being active in the area see if anyone else has gone missing recently…
Insight 5.
After a bit he’ll also head to Phandlin Miner’s Exchange where he will ask about the Cragmaw’s and Gundren, and inquire about special metal ingots… (just RP on his personal project).
Insight 5 (lol not a morning guy I guess)
* upon arrival at the inn Chase purchases the offered soap (-5cp). And washes prior to sleeping.
Vasha stretches out on the modest bed, the aches of the day's earlier battle still clinging to his muscles. The dim light from the window barely illuminates the room, but his bedmate says nothing, even when the sickly green dancing lights flicker into existence in the early hours of the morning. Vasha groans, swatting at them half-heartedly, but eventually they fade, allowing him a bit more rest before dawn.
He’s up early, chewing through his rations with a mechanical sort of focus. His mind, however, is on Sildar and the promise of gold. As soon as the older man appears, Vasha is on him like a shadow, pestering him relentlessly until Sildar heads out to secure the loan. Once the coin is in his hand, Vasha finally relaxes, pocketing the gold with a satisfied nod.
At the Lionshield Coster, Vasha spends his earnings on a sturdy new chain shirt, running a hand over the metal links with a grin. As the shopkeep tallies up the cost, he leans against the counter, his voice low and smooth as he asks, “You know of any work around here? Something to keep my coin pouch full? I usually do protection gigs, but anything needing some muscle is probably fine.”
Persuasion 17
Nyli has a comfortable night. She rises early and takes breakfast before heading out. As she passes Chase she says that she's going to check in on an acquaintance and should be back shortly.
Raising her hood and looking around carefully, she slips off into the town.
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
John sees the goblin tracks and let's the others know big sneeze is not alone.
In town John will stop by the town guard and tell them of the bug bear threat and where the cave is.
John will see if his rank as a corporal in the Neverwinter guard nets him a bunk at the barracks if not he will sleep in the cheapest room at the inn.
Doldek will purchase a comfortable room and meal at the inn. After breakfast he returns to Barthen's Provisions where he goes over a meticulous list of charcoal, herbs, incense, and finally a brass brazier. "I shall be preoccupied for the next hour or so." he tells his companions before seeking out a solitary place on the outskirts of town. He casts the ritual Find Familiar, summoning a bat. "Your senses may prove useful should we find ourselves back in goblin caves." Upon completion, he will return to Sildar to discuss the next course of action.
Chapter 2: Phandalin
In the center of town stands the Stonehill Inn, a large, newly built roadhouse of fieldstone and rough-hewn timbers. The common room is clearing out, last call having passed already. Locals finish their last mugs of ale or cider, all of them eyeing you with curiosity. A short human man (Toblen Stonehill, he/him) is collecting dishes on a tray. He looks up at you as you enter. "Welcome, weary travelers," he says. A DC 5 Wisdom (Insight) Check reveals:
Mr. Stonehill visibly notices your injuries, but does not react. He's not shocked at all.
"Are you looking to stay the night? My name is Toblen Stonehill. I own this establishment." He shows anyone who accepts his offer to their beds and offers water basins for anyone who wants to bathe. He sells bars of soap for 5 copper pieces each.
The comely, young, human woman who served you your hearty, delicious, luxury breakfast, Mrs. Trilena Stonehill, says, “There have been a lot of disappearances lately, Mr. Kragen. It's just terrible! Thel Dendrar, the woodcarver, he stood up to those dirty, rotten scoundrels, the Redbrands, a tenday ago when they came by his shop and leered at his wife. And they murdered him! In broad daylight! I can't believe what this town has become. Several townsfolk saw this happen. The ruffians took Thel's body, and now his wife, daughter, and son have gone missing too. I guess you could say that's one murder and three disappearances.”
There are three others who are currently eating breakfast in the inn's common room, all humans: a farmer (Narth, he/him), a miner (Lanar, he/him), and a weaver (Freda, she/her). They are not-so-subtly listening in on Chase's conversation with Mrs. Stonehill. Also present is a young boy who resembles Mrs. Stonehill (Pip, he/him) who is buzzing around the room, and a bubbly barmaid (Elsa, she/her), who's currently serving other tables.
The Phandalin Miner's Exchange, located in the southwest side of town, is a bastion of order in this frontier town. On the left wall hangs a large map of the countryside surrounding Phandalin, heavily annotated with the claims of various miners and prospectors. A few claims are still untaken.
Behind a counter sits Guildmaster Halia Thornton, a human woman. A set of scales stands on the counter to her left, an inkwell and set of pens to her right. Stacks of papers, neatly organized, cover most other surfaces in her office area.
Replying to Chase's inquiries, Guildmaster Thornton says, "If the Cragmaws took him, I wouldn't hold out hope for Mr. Rockseeker. I'm glad he put a deposit down on his claim already. His two brothers might be around. I haven't heard from them lately. Speaking of the Cragmaws, I believe one of their goblins is working with those punks, the Redbrands." Guildmaster Thornton shrugs. "The ores you're looking for are very rare. I can get them if you give me a month, but you'll have to join the Miner's Guild first; there's a 50 Gp fee. For the quantity you need, I estimate the price will be 2,500 Gp."
Vasha follows Sildar all the way to townmaster's hall. The townmaster’s hall has sturdy stone walls, a pitched wooden roof, and a bell tower at the back. Posted on a board next to the front door is a notice written in Common. It reads: “REWARD — Orcs near Wyvern Tor! Those of a mind to face the orc menace should inquire within.” The notice bears the town’s seal and an indecipherable signature. Sildar says, "I will meet with Mayor Wester. He will loan me the money I need to get my affairs back in order. That includes paying you. You are welcome to join me.
If Vasha (or another PC) joins the meeting:
Mayor Harbin Wester (he/him) is a portly human man wearing in a dark gray suit and a monocle. He offers 100 Gp to any party which takes care of the orcs near Wyvern Tor.
After the meeting, Sildar will go briefly to Stonehill Inn to pay you all. If any PC is not present, Sildar will leave the gold with Mr. Stonehill. Sildar then returns to Townmaster Hall, stopping at the Lionshield Coster on the way to purchase a longsword and chain mail.
Hanging above the front door of the Lionshield Coster, modest trading post, is a sign shaped like a wooden shield with a blue lion painted on it. Inside, rows of weapons hang from the walls. Wooden manikins model various types of armor. The shopkeeper, Linene Graywind, a human woman, complains to Sildar, Vasha, and anyone else who will listen, about how terrible things are. "Why do we even have roads if my shipments don't arrive on them? I'm going to run out of inventory next tenday at this rate," she says as sells Vasha the chain shirt. "Business is booming and I have to keep up with demand. Those Redbrand thugs have got the whole town interested in self-defense. Hey, I bet someone would pay you to deal with them."
Linene also mentions that she would pay 50 Gp for information on her latest missing shipment of scimitars, shortbows, and other goods, which was supposed to arrive from Neverwinter last month, and 100 Gp if it is recovered.
Nyli heads across the street to the Shrine of Luck, a small temple built from mismatched stones. Standing between the chancel and nave is an elf (Sister Garaele, she/her) dressed in black robes with gold trim, affixed to which is a silver pin shaped like a harp. She also has some bandages on her arms and head.
A DC 10 Intelligence (History) check for magic items (Nyli may roll at advantage) reveals:
This is a Harper pin, enchanted to have the effect of a Ring of Mind Shielding and signifying that Sister Garaele is an agent of the Harpers, a semi-secret, scattered network of adventurers and spies who advocate equality and covertly oppose the abuse of power. The Harpers gather information throughout the land to thwart tyrants and any leader, government, or group that grows too strong. They aid the weak, the poor, and the oppressed.
She closes a book and smiles broadly when Nyli enters. "Nyli, how fortunate it is to to see you again! How have you been? and why did you return?" Sister Garaele looks to the east briefly, then turns back to Nyli.
John quickly finds out that there is, in fact, no town guard in Phandalin. The closest thing is, now that he's arrived, Sildar, who's established himself at the Townmaster's Hall. He says to John, "It seems this town's sheriff was murdered two months ago and Mayor Wester has not been able to find a replacement. Mayor Wester offers to let you sleep one of the Townmaster Hall's empty jail cells for free. It's in the basement, but it's reasonably clean and quiet.
Regarding the Klarg and the Cragmaws, Mayor Wester says, "I'm sure someone will deal with that problem." Having heard that, Sildar rolls his eyes and renews his offer to you, 30 Gp each for Klarg's head, plus you can keep any stolen items which are not able to be returned. He goes on to mention that the Cragmaw goblins are much larger than just Klarg. "From what I learned listening to the goblins in that disgusting cave, the Cragmaws have taken up residence in a castle somewhere. I would reward your party 500 Gp if you defeat this main force."
When Doldek enters Barthen's Provisions, he is greeted by a lean and balding human male shopkeeper of fifty years with a kindly manner (Elmar Barthen, he/him). He employs a couple of young clerks (Ander (he/him) and Thistle (she/her)). "You wouldn't happen to be the one of the people Gundren hired, would you? I see his wagon out by the inn and I've never seen you before. You should really get it off the street, or it's liable to be stolen. Did Gundren come in with you?" If Doldek confirms that it is Gundren's wagon, Barthen gives Doldek 60 Gp to be distributed to the party and offers to send his assistants to unload the wagon and bring it to a stable at the Alderleaf Farm. "We can get you a discount there," Barthen says. "Only 2 silver pieces a day for stabling, including food for the oxen!"
When Doldek casts his spell, a bat flies up out of the flames. It flaps around a bit and latches on to his shirt, hanging upside down.
When Doldek goes to talk to Sildar, he hears the same speech John got above. Sildar adds, "I had planned to visit the Tresendar Manor this morning, but the mayor told me it is abandoned. I hoped to find my friend, Iarno Albrek, living there. The mayor says he went missing two months ago. I'm worried about him. He's a short, dark-bearded human wizard in his thirties. Perhaps you and your associates could investigate.”
OOC:
If you haven't already, level up to 2.
There's a lot of NPCs and a lot of side-quests you can do at this point. There's plenty of time in-game to do it all if you want, even with Gundren's doom looming. I can answer any clarifying questions.
Here's a copy of my message from this morning for reference:
I didn't give you all that much to work with in Phandalin in my last post. I'll write another post later today with an actual description of the town, but for now know that the innkeeper's name is Toblen Stonehill (human; he/him) and he does have rooms available at the Stonehill Inn.
@HunterOrien is correct that you can use the Expenses section in Chapter 5 of the PhB to estimate costs for staying at the inn, which offers Modest, Comfortable, and Wealthy options. You'll only get your own room with the Wealthy option; Comfortable has bunks; and with Modest you'll have to share a bed with another customer of modest means. There are other options if you ask, or you can camp out in the woods for free (and get free food if you're proficient in Survival and want to spend your time doing that).
Sildar will pay you 30 Gp each. He will get a loan from the mayor in the morning to pay you.
You should have gotten the first 10 Gp for the wagon delivery before the start of the adventure (if you didn't add it to your character sheet then, you can do so now), and you will get 10 more from Elmar Barthen, the owner of Barthen's provisions. Your characters would know that the original contract you had with Gundren was to deliver the contents of the wagon to Barthen's warehouse. You can hold on to the wagon and the oxen. There is a stable in town you can rent space in.
I don't enjoy role playing shopping scenes, so you can just put the transaction in the OOC section of a post describing how you went to a certain store. If you want to accomplish something in addition to shopping, which I encourage you to do, you can initiate it. Certain events may occur during shopping trips, too. I will describe the people you meet around town and the notable locations.
The main shops in Phandalin are Barthen's Provisions, which sells all the adventuring gear listed in the PhB; the Lionshield Coster, which sells the weapons and armor listed in the PhB; and the Phandalin Miner's Exchange, which buys and sells ores and minerals, etc. Your characters would know this just from walking through town and reading the shops' signs and looking in the windows.
Map:
Nyli enters the shrine, bows to Sister Garaele and says politely "Greetings Sister, and blessings to you." As she stands again she goes back to her normal speech "Good to see you again, still in the wars I see."
Looking around she lowers her voice and nods at the bandages "More trouble? or are those from your previous dealings with glasstaff's goons?" She pauses and lowers her voice further "No help from err.. your musical associates?"
She tells Sister Garaele what has passed recently and why she's back in town, and in turn being told what has happened since she left. After a quick catch-up she bows again to Sister Garaele and turns to leave, but stops, turning back. "Thinking about it, the group I'm with are fairly capable. The goons may be in for a shock if they try any of their usual tricks against them."
With a cheery "see ya again" she leaves the shrine and heads off to join the others.
Olan Fargrove - Elf Swashbuckler Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Thief
Goblins, orcs, more goblins—Vasha mulls over the endless list of bounties as he strolls back toward the inn, his grin growing with each passing thought. Maybe exterminator is the right career path after all. The feel of the new chain shirt, still stiff against his skin, brings a sense of pride. It’s modest armor, nothing flashy, but it’s his—paid for with his own gold earned honestly. Every rattle of the metal links as he walks serves as a reminder of how far he’s come from being a hired thug with barely a copper to his name.
When he steps into the inn, Vasha can’t help but flash a grin as he rejoins the others, his new armor barely visible beneath his clothes. “Missing weapons shipments,” he says, voice smooth and calm. “Sounds like someone’s been hitting caravans hard, and the owner wants them back. What do ya bet it’s Klarg? We should bring the cart when we head back to the cave.” He glances around at the group, gauging their reactions.
Chase smiles as he sees Vasha’s new chain, “Fine armor yer wearin’ an I agree with yer idea but I think we got to bring Klarg back here alive. He needs ta answer some questions and be an example fer some killers here in town. Maybe a good ol execution will change a few people’s perspectives on their lives. Or at least we can get some answers about Mr.Rockseeker.” Chase looks a little irritated but politely keeps it bottled up.
Earlier at the Phandelin Miner’s Exchange, “Aye consider me joined!” Chase sets his two banded agates alongside 30 gold coins on the counter.
“You should get them ores requested and on their way. I’ll get the price ye’ve mentioned. One more question have ya got any copies of that claims map?”