"thank you sildar. Honor to serve. Today was not my day to meet the gods. well met master brecca. Your help was indeed welcome this day! I tracked an escapee from their lair here my companions tracked another towards alderman farm. All is well kargan? As for you mistress dwarve, I think a look in your abode and at your papers will be telling as to your loyalties. With your permission lord sildar? We should also see to the brave townsfolk who carried this day."
I will then head out to the front of the inn to see that the injured are tended to.
"AH my friend you should have seen the villagers rise up and smite their oppressors! was wonderous to see! alas not all went as planned and that fell dark wizard escaped! I did however make the acquaintance of this rather large human, My noble Dwarf friend I present Master Brecca for your appraisal Haha. Brecca, please make yourself known to Kargan Axe-smiter, the terror of Tugans Deep, Slayer of the Harnarind, Deathbringer of Telstartris, The finest, meanest, most loveable little hairy man I've ever met!"
with that I make a hasty exit to go see the villages health and smile mightily at a presumed gobsmacked dwarven fighter!
"Och, dinnae fret 'bout that dung fumbler, kriynor has 'im trussed up like a turkey o'er near the Alderleaf house, sorry to say a thug got there first an' put the house to the torch, but mae axe put an end to that scum!! Qelline 'n Carp went to the hideout till all is put to rights here." "Breccha eh? Ye look like ye can handle a blade a'right, but pay no mind to the blathering 'o titus, like all elves, he loves the sound of his own voice above all else."
"Marvellous news Kargan Deep Delver, marvellous ill send some townsfolk to go help Kyinor"
Once outside i survey the scene and seeing that the ijnures are being tending too ill get a coupple of village men to accompny me towards alderlef farm.
The clean up takes most of the day, by the waning light of the afternoon sun you all wearily make your way to the Stonehill Inn.
Tolben has set up a makeshift triage in the upper rooms and greets you hurriedly was you enter, "Make yourselves comfortable gents...be with you in a moment, nothing but the best for the heroes of Phandalin this night!"
It almost feels too good to be true, sitting and thinking of nothing but your bellies for a moment, the events of the past 24 hours put aside for good food and drink. As you eat the people of Phadalin come to your table and thank you whole heartedly, many leaving parcels of food or small keepsakes. The men shake your hands and slap you enthusiastically on the back, praising your courage and skill. The women smile, stop a moment to hug you or kiss you on the cheek. The children laugh, and run around, or sit and stare at you quietly, their minds full of the deeds of the day, and tales of adventure.
Later, with full stomachs and clearer heads, you put all the of events together and relate your action at the Redbrand hideout to Sildar. He listens intently, stopping you only occasionally for more information on certain aspects of the fight, or the layout of the villains lair. The old knights face grows darker as the you tell him of the letter between Inaro and the mysterious mastermind The Black Spider.
He commends you on your handling of the situation and asks you to meet with him at the Townmasters hall tomorrow in the late morning where you can discuss what happens next and he can give you the 200 gp reward for clearing out he bandits and capturing the Traitor Inaro. Sildar then makes his good byes mentioning very important appointment with his pillow and makes his way upstairs.
It gets late, you all feel the rigors of the last day keenly and there is much yawning around the table.
The way forward is not quite clear, Gundren is still missing, the way to Cragmaw castle is still unknown, The new development of the Wave echo cave and the race to find it's magical forge and treasures excites and troubles you all. Combined with troubling reports of Orc and Goblin activity on the rise, it seems that Phandalin is in real danger and needs someone to stand between them and the surrounding dangers.
OOC: Feel free to ask me anything you think needs to be clearer, talk among yourselves, drink, make plans, introductions. All that good stuff. Let me know what you'd like to do next :)
All very excellent stuff dudes, lots of fun, you absolutely acced this part of the adventure. Well done, and....WELCOME TO LEVEL 3! [That includes Breccha :)]
If you have anything you want to say to or ask Sildar go right ahead, it all happens as you eat and drink. Same goes for any one like Tolben etc.
Titus enjoys the revelry that comes from a successful days battle after going back to the hideout and getting all there to come to town. I will spend half the night with the townsfolk discussing the days events and commending them on their actions. I will also state that they need to organise themselves into a town watch. I will also spend time with the wounded ensuring that they are provided the best meals and drink (a good drop of a fine spirit helps the pain) and will personally thank each person for their efforts and impressing upon them that they have saved their village we merely helped where we could. To Sildar as he starts to leave I go after him and say
"My Lord Sildar, frontier towns such as this need to look to their own for protection as much as possible, You and I know the sweetness of victory in battle and crushing despair of defeat. These people may not be soldiers but they are strong of heart and of limb. They need to look to themselves for protection. Today they stood tall and were adjudged worthy, help them achieve more! We both know that bandits and goblin kind will always prey upon the weak. Let these people be strong! There is an armoury in the redband hideout . I will organise to get these weapons to town, equip the townsfolk, I offer my assistance, unworthy as it is, in training these people. You need to site a guard tower in town and start planning a palisade around town, there are plenty of woodcutters and workers to lend a hand to this task. The people are ready."
To the party:
"Gents we have won this day! What a fine addition to our ballard! The Ballard of Inaro's Capture! What a fine tale! Kargan, you hairy little dervish! What a fine picture you made splitting kobalds with your axe! Kargan Kobald Killer! Haha! and Kryinor! The mighty Wolf Druid! Kryinor Dire Druid it is! The mighty Canine Slayer of his enemies! and lets not forget our devilsh gnome Eedim Oneshot Shortbow! The bain of al goblins! haha! What a mighty tale!
We must continue our work gentlemen! This town needs us! We still have our dear friend Gundren to rescue, and I fear that his disappearance, these mages and Wave Echo are all related! They have to be! I think we have to find Cragmaw Castle! Inaro is our best lead, spare to question there! I say we base ourselves in the former redband hideout, It provides us the perfect home! I would bet my life that these good people will help us and keep our comings and goings confidential!
We should slake our thirsts tonight, go through our findings tomorrow morning and divvy up. Then any weapons we don't want equip the town, I will train them in what I can, but I feel it is important, Corellan wills it. I can train in between our missions gents, you are welcome to help where you feel you can. Kryinor and Kargan I leave the questioning of Inaro to you, I will assist however you feel I can.
I will cast detect magic on the morrow and wander around the hideout to see what we have.
And lastly to our new friend, Master Barbarian you acquitted yourself well this day and I for one are heartily glad for your arrival. I do not presume to speak for my friends but you are welcome any time. What bring you to these parts? You seem to be a long way from your home, yes? You have performed mighty deeds this day! Tell us about you! Surely you have a fine tale to tell!"
Brecca; feeling good with his belly full and an ale in his hand, explains his connection to the druids and his mission which lines up with their own.
"I would love to join your party, if you will have me. Clearly our aims are the same and you seem stout fellows who enjoy a fight, in the right cause. I cannot hep feeling what you have seen may be just the beginning of what is to come..." he trails off thoughtfully.
" I do feel finding this Gundren fellow should be a priority." he concludes after considering their tale further.
"Och, saving Gundren has always been the priority, this little skirmish was naught but an amusing diversion. First thing in the morn' I will ha'e a few questions for our captives, an' they better hope I like their answers!!"
There is much enthusiastic agreement as Titus lays out his plans for arming, equipping, and training of a village militia. Daran Edermath the who's orchard lies on the north western edge of Phandalin comes over and says, "An excellent Idea Master Tutis. Things seem to be heating up around here of late and I think we are not as safe as we hoped we were." He rubs a calloused hand bearing many scars on a grey stubbled chin, "In my younger days I did some mercenary work on the Dragon Coast and had thought my soldiering days were behind me. But trouble may be found everywhere and if you don't look for it, it will eventually find you." He chuckles, "When you have some free time I would like to have a drink with you and offer my help with your readying the town for trouble. I may not be as spry as I used to be and have held a pruning saw more than a sword of late, but I will not run from danger."
"An excellent suggestion Titus. I would indeed welcome you assistance in securing the town and teaching the Phdalanians to defend themselves. I think I could also arrange a small ,though suitable stipend, for your efforts through my masters the Lords Alliance." He says with a wink.
A few moments after Sildar makes his offer, Halia, who runs the Miners Exchange, comes over to Titus and asks to have a quiet word in his ear. "Did you keep our conversation yesterday in mind Master Titus? Were you able to recover any useful correspondence from the wizards chambers?"
Late the next morning you all wake, breakfast and make your way over to the Twonmasters Hall. Sildar sits in his office with a large mug of something strong, warm, and spiced on his table and a frustrated frown on his face.
"That blasted Inaro knows nothing of any use, well of little use any way. He has no idea where Cragmaw Castle, or Wave Echo cave are. I did manage to get it out of him that this 'Black Spider' is a Drow Elf. Nothing good can come of that I am sure. Where ever those capricious fey walk there is nothing but death and chaos."
He then flops down in his rather large and comfortable chair, "Excuse me, please have a seat and something warm to drink," he indicates a small stove in the corner with a large silver pitcher on the heating plate, and a table next to it with a few goblets.
"...and that thug, just a simple brute nothing more. I'm shipping Inaro off to Waterdeep for trial and what ever punishment our masters deem fit to give him...Traitor..." taking a large gulp of drink and wiping his chin he continues, "I seems we are not much the wiser, and still in desperate need of all of your help."
"To that end we need to talk about some ideas for defense of Phadalin, raising and training a militia, finding Cragmaw Castle, rescuing Gundren and his brothers, and dealing with this 'Black Spider'." He begins to shuffle some papers on his desk, "Perhaps we start with finding Cragmaw, I can in confidence off you a reward of 500 gold pieces if you can locate this nest of goblins and either eliminate them, or chase them off to parts unknown."
To Halia: "My dear mistress I do recall our discussions. Unfortunately I have no papers to offer at this stage. But I can claim the town is free of brigands, so I'll gladly take possession of the 80 gold and when i have any papers I'll come and see you for the other 20." I'll continue mingling while she retrieves the money.
To Sildar that night: "Excellent! Any stipend would be welcome My Lord (winking back) I'll arrange letters of banking with your approved agent in town, perhaps you can lend me your clerk tomorrow afternoon and have a meeting posted for the town at the same time?"
To Sildar the next day: "My Lord I wish to see the wizards effects. Much could be gained there. Of Course we need complete secrecy about any activities we undertake towards gundren and cragmaw. And may i be sold bold as to ask that you allow us to question Inaro?" "Drow! Pit pipers the lot of them. If Drow are involved then this matter must be settled at all costs. Their stench must always be eliminated wherever it's found!" If Sildar acquiesces I'll then go through Inaro's personnel effects he was captured with and cast detect magic while doing it.
To Daran: "Soldiers may grow old my friend, but our duty never ends. We can only be relieved by the graceful embrace of mother earth. I'll gladly accept your help friend. What is your preference? Ranged or melee? Seek me out tomorrow afternoon for I shall be in town organising the town defences."
That afternoon: I will speak to the gathered people about forming a militia/Town Watch. I will ask for people with trades/skills to make themselves known to the clerk so that Sildar can give instructions for the siting and building of a watch tower adjacent to the town square. People who want to train will be lined up and names taken. I will impress upon them they do this for their town and their well being. one at a time they will be given a sword to swing at a bag stuffed full of cloth hanging nearby, then a spear to stab at a plank of wood lastly a questioned as to who knows and hunts with a bow. They will be divided into archers/spearmen/swordsmen and that recorded against their name and told they may change later during training, once names are taken they will be told that whenever a red flag is hoisted on the town square mast whoever is able should muster there for training. They will be given a weapon to care for at their first training. I will then dismiss them and talk to any who have questions.
Once back at base I'll cast detect magic again and go for a walk around the place starting in Inaro's chambers and spend a bit of time searching the place again including armoury and weapons of slain.
Once back their we can start distributing loot I suppose if people are up to it I cant remember what been found.
Kriynors ears prick up when brecca mentions the druid Riedoth "I was talking to Quelline about Riedoth, she thought he might be able to tell us where the cragmore goblin hideout is. Do you where would could find him? i would love to ask him a few questions of my own, its not so often you run into another druid."
To the group,"It seems we have another family that is in need of some assistance, losing there home to our carelessness, i feel we owe it the the aderleafs to help them rebuild there home or atleast fund its rebuild. If it wasnt for the brave young carp we would have had a much harder task of sneaking up on those bugbears.
To Titus "I think i need some more training before i go into battle as a dire wolf again... just to get my bearings. Tomorrow i think i will head into the forest and see if i can work on my shifting ability for a couple of hours.
to Kargan: " your right my friend, getting Gundren back is our first priority, lets see if the goblin knows the way.
The next day i will start by gathering all the loot that we acquired and cast the ritual detect magic on them to see if anything has a magical aura.
In the afternoon while titus is organizing the townsfolk i will slip away and run through the woods as a dire wolf tracking and getting a sense for the size and feel of the beast i have shifted into.
Did Kriynor find anything on the wizard or thug when he searched them?
Yes and you have ample time to take them somewhere else if you wish :) Kryior found his Glass staff, a curved silver dagger, a waxed leather satchel containing - a healing potion [2d4+2] and a scroll of charm person (wizard scroll), 50 gp, and a plain set of traveling clothes]
Was Kriynor able to retrieve his axe?
Yes he was.
What happened to the Aderleaf farm, did the fire continue to burn?
Unfortunately yes, the fire was too advanced for Qelline and Carp to do much. Kryinor and Kargan would not have been able to do much either. The rest of the buildings, barn etc are ok though.
Were the two families that we saved okay?
Yes. Early in the morning Mrina, Qelline, and the children come back to town with Nilsa in the lead prodding the captured goblin along with a spear. They seem none the worse for wear, physically, and better after a nights rest. Nilsa delivered the goblin into Sildar's custody. Mrina has invited Qelline and Carp back to their home for the time being until something can be done about the farm house or another place for them to live can be found.
Detect Magic: The Staff, the healing potion, The scroll, and the long sword from the cyclpops' loot box are all magical. Any other new items from the hide out or the possessions of the thugs are mundane.
For Titus:-
Halia frowns at your reply. "I have the agreed sum on me master Elf and will pay the the portion you request. But take heed this is a contract between us if you take the gold and if any papers do turn up I will expect them to be delivered to me, or an account of their contents. I also expect truth, honour, and fair play in those I hire to complete a task."She holds up a hand to forestall any challenge, "You've been all of those thus far, and I have no reason to expect otherwise, I am just letting you know that there are consequences if your exemplary behavior done not continue." With that she takes out a fine supple doeskin bag and removes some coins from it. Placing it in your hand, "80 gold, part payment for a job not yet complete. I look forward to your next report." Then she moves off towards the door of the Inn.
Daran nods thoughtfully, "Agreed friend. I am a blades-man, bu I used the bow to some effect. I have also lead warriors in the past. I will see you tomorrow, I am happy to offer any help a grey haired veteran can provide." He smiles, shakes your hand and then moves off.
The next day:-
Sildar agrees to let you question the prisoners, "I'm not sure who much more you'll get out of them, and remember I need them alive and talking for transport and trial in Neverwinter." He chuckles.
"As for Inaro's possessions, all he had were his clothes, I assumed he was disarmed by you before being delivered into custody. Be careful wizards are want to carry around dangerous toys."
For Kargan:-
"A young lass, NIlsa?...handed the goblin over to me this morning. There is fire in that one mark me. I have asked him a few questions, he seems a weak minded thing not capable of much. Rather ill treated by the looks of him. I gained little of use out of him, and am at a loose end with what to do with him to be honest." Sildar sighs, "If you can think of any use for him I will happily release him into your custody...he may make a reasonable guide to the east if watched..."
You find all of the prisoners surly but co-operative. Unfortunately you have the same results as Sildar. No one ca tell you where Castle Cragmaw is or where to find Wave Echo Cave. The goblin's name is Droop and he tells you that the Bugbears were working for The Spider and knew the way to both places but he was kept in a bag most of the time and can not find either location. Droop offers his help, "I maybe find way when we get close to there. I am far form home and don't know that way back. But when close maybe then know a way..."
Inaro also confirms that the bugbears were his go betweens and that all of his dealing have been with them or via correspondence.
Later that afternoon, about a two dozen villagers, most of the able fighting aged people of the town in fact, gather in the square. You hand out weapons to men and women and a few youths, according to their sized, taste and skill. In fact you soon run out of equipment, and out of nowhere Linene of the Lion Shield Coster turns up with a hand cart full of simple yet effective arms and armour, "For Phandalin," she says with a smile. "I want our home to be safe. I am not much of a fighter, but have the means to arm those that are. Take what you need Captain Titus."
Daran is there in old, worn, yet well maintained armour, with a sword belted to his hip that must have been a gift from a rich noble. It is one of the finest long swords you have ever seen. He helps you teach the volunteers how to use and maintain their arms and armour, and proves a very able second. He is well known and liked by the villagers and is a font of knowledge about them and the area around the town. "We''ll have them whipped into some kind of fighting form in no time Captain!"he says enthusiastically.
After a few hours of acclimation and basic training you say your good byes to the new rough, and very green militia of Phandalin. Happy that there were no injuries and to see the men and women walk off confident and with hope. Phandalin has grown stronger this day.
Kryinor once again becomes the wolf and moves off into the nearby Forrest. Moving through the trees and the underbrush you get a feel for the physical form of the creature and become more confident and comfortable in this huge four legged fury skin. You feel the wolf spirit within you and begin to better see the world as the wolf does feeling some deeper connection forming. You wonder if you spend too much time like this if you might loose your self.
"Brother Two-Four Leg you well?" A Ripper's familiar presence touches your mind, "The pack not far, can come if danger..."
You scan the underground complex again, this time with care and the freedom of no other pressing action to distract you. You find some valuable ingredients in the laboratory, but nothing else new. You are quite sure that you have are now well acquainted with the lair and there are no other secrets to discover. There is time to remove the rest of the bodies and clean up a bit before you are ready to call it a day.
Don: did i find any paperwork in Inaro's study/room?
If not I will send a letter to Halia via Nilsa -
My Dear Mistress Halia,
Unfortunately I cannot locate any of Inaro's papers. I have conducted a thorough search to no avail. It appears he has committed all information to mind with no records made. Further, upon questioning he appears a rather small cog in the wheel. I will forgive your previous impertinence as I know that humans can be flighty creatures and far too quick to conclusions. Let us be friends, its always far more advantageous to all involved when friendship abounds in place of animosity. In this spirit I offer this - tell me more about your understanding of this region and of what other happenings you might know and I will pass to you any information I may come across in the future, such an arrangement can be of benefit to all involved.......
At Your Leisure
Titus Vespasianus
.
Well friends let's see what we have while we talk about our next move.
(I produce the 80gp and place it on the table) I suggest we take a float of 10gp and give that to mistress Mrina to run our new home while we're away.
The papers in Inaro's chambers were mostly correspondence to apothecaries and herbalists for supplies and equipment for his laboratory. Theonly real incriminating/important piece of paper works was the letter from the Black Spider; [included here for convenience :)]
"Lord Albrek, My spies in Neverwinter tell me that strangers are due to arrive in Phandalin. They could be working for the dwarves. Capture them if you can, kill them if you must, but don't allow them to upset our plans. See that any dwarven maps in their possession are delivered to me with haste. I'm counting on you, larno. Don't disappoint me."
I will search the bodies of the wizard and the thug making sure they don't have any tricks hidden under there cloaks.
In the search i will cut off the cloaks so that there is no mistaking there identities.
OOC: I dont have my axe so im hoping that one of them was carrying a sword or a dagger of sorts.
"thank you sildar. Honor to serve. Today was not my day to meet the gods. well met master brecca. Your help was indeed welcome this day! I tracked an escapee from their lair here my companions tracked another towards alderman farm. All is well kargan? As for you mistress dwarve, I think a look in your abode and at your papers will be telling as to your loyalties. With your permission lord sildar? We should also see to the brave townsfolk who carried this day."
I will then head out to the front of the inn to see that the injured are tended to.
Breccha, feeling more calm, salutes Sildar and those he just fought beside.
"Well met indeed! A tavern seems the most appropriate place to end a fight like that and I could certainly do with ale!" He exclaims.
Remembering his javelin he slips outside to retrieve it and then returns to the bar to hunt up ale for himself and his new found brothers in arms.
"Seems I missed all the fun again eh titus, sildar an ye are lookin fair done in!! An' who's this hairy fellow, not a local i'm guessin'? "
"AH my friend you should have seen the villagers rise up and smite their oppressors! was wonderous to see! alas not all went as planned and that fell dark wizard escaped! I did however make the acquaintance of this rather large human, My noble Dwarf friend I present Master Brecca for your appraisal Haha. Brecca, please make yourself known to Kargan Axe-smiter, the terror of Tugans Deep, Slayer of the Harnarind, Deathbringer of Telstartris, The finest, meanest, most loveable little hairy man I've ever met!"
with that I make a hasty exit to go see the villages health and smile mightily at a presumed gobsmacked dwarven fighter!
"Och, dinnae fret 'bout that dung fumbler, kriynor has 'im trussed up like a turkey o'er near the Alderleaf house, sorry to say a thug got there first an' put the house to the torch, but mae axe put an end to that scum!! Qelline 'n Carp went to the hideout till all is put to rights here."
"Breccha eh? Ye look like ye can handle a blade a'right, but pay no mind to the blathering 'o titus, like all elves, he loves the sound of his own voice above all else."
As im walking out the inn door
"Marvellous news Kargan Deep Delver, marvellous ill send some townsfolk to go help Kyinor"
Once outside i survey the scene and seeing that the ijnures are being tending too ill get a coupple of village men to accompny me towards alderlef farm.
The clean up takes most of the day, by the waning light of the afternoon sun you all wearily make your way to the Stonehill Inn.
Tolben has set up a makeshift triage in the upper rooms and greets you hurriedly was you enter, "Make yourselves comfortable gents...be with you in a moment, nothing but the best for the heroes of Phandalin this night!"
It almost feels too good to be true, sitting and thinking of nothing but your bellies for a moment, the events of the past 24 hours put aside for good food and drink. As you eat the people of Phadalin come to your table and thank you whole heartedly, many leaving parcels of food or small keepsakes. The men shake your hands and slap you enthusiastically on the back, praising your courage and skill. The women smile, stop a moment to hug you or kiss you on the cheek. The children laugh, and run around, or sit and stare at you quietly, their minds full of the deeds of the day, and tales of adventure.
Later, with full stomachs and clearer heads, you put all the of events together and relate your action at the Redbrand hideout to Sildar. He listens intently, stopping you only occasionally for more information on certain aspects of the fight, or the layout of the villains lair. The old knights face grows darker as the you tell him of the letter between Inaro and the mysterious mastermind The Black Spider.
He commends you on your handling of the situation and asks you to meet with him at the Townmasters hall tomorrow in the late morning where you can discuss what happens next and he can give you the 200 gp reward for clearing out he bandits and capturing the Traitor Inaro. Sildar then makes his good byes mentioning very important appointment with his pillow and makes his way upstairs.
It gets late, you all feel the rigors of the last day keenly and there is much yawning around the table.
The way forward is not quite clear, Gundren is still missing, the way to Cragmaw castle is still unknown, The new development of the Wave echo cave and the race to find it's magical forge and treasures excites and troubles you all. Combined with troubling reports of Orc and Goblin activity on the rise, it seems that Phandalin is in real danger and needs someone to stand between them and the surrounding dangers.
OOC: Feel free to ask me anything you think needs to be clearer, talk among yourselves, drink, make plans, introductions. All that good stuff. Let me know what you'd like to do next :)
All very excellent stuff dudes, lots of fun, you absolutely acced this part of the adventure. Well done, and....WELCOME TO LEVEL 3! [That includes Breccha :)]
If you have anything you want to say to or ask Sildar go right ahead, it all happens as you eat and drink. Same goes for any one like Tolben etc.
Titus enjoys the revelry that comes from a successful days battle after going back to the hideout and getting all there to come to town. I will spend half the night with the townsfolk discussing the days events and commending them on their actions. I will also state that they need to organise themselves into a town watch. I will also spend time with the wounded ensuring that they are provided the best meals and drink (a good drop of a fine spirit helps the pain) and will personally thank each person for their efforts and impressing upon them that they have saved their village we merely helped where we could. To Sildar as he starts to leave I go after him and say
"My Lord Sildar, frontier towns such as this need to look to their own for protection as much as possible, You and I know the sweetness of victory in battle and crushing despair of defeat. These people may not be soldiers but they are strong of heart and of limb. They need to look to themselves for protection. Today they stood tall and were adjudged worthy, help them achieve more! We both know that bandits and goblin kind will always prey upon the weak. Let these people be strong! There is an armoury in the redband hideout . I will organise to get these weapons to town, equip the townsfolk, I offer my assistance, unworthy as it is, in training these people. You need to site a guard tower in town and start planning a palisade around town, there are plenty of woodcutters and workers to lend a hand to this task. The people are ready."
To the party:
"Gents we have won this day! What a fine addition to our ballard! The Ballard of Inaro's Capture! What a fine tale! Kargan, you hairy little dervish! What a fine picture you made splitting kobalds with your axe! Kargan Kobald Killer! Haha! and Kryinor! The mighty Wolf Druid! Kryinor Dire Druid it is! The mighty Canine Slayer of his enemies! and lets not forget our devilsh gnome Eedim Oneshot Shortbow! The bain of al goblins! haha! What a mighty tale!
We must continue our work gentlemen! This town needs us! We still have our dear friend Gundren to rescue, and I fear that his disappearance, these mages and Wave Echo are all related! They have to be! I think we have to find Cragmaw Castle! Inaro is our best lead, spare to question there! I say we base ourselves in the former redband hideout, It provides us the perfect home! I would bet my life that these good people will help us and keep our comings and goings confidential!
We should slake our thirsts tonight, go through our findings tomorrow morning and divvy up. Then any weapons we don't want equip the town, I will train them in what I can, but I feel it is important, Corellan wills it. I can train in between our missions gents, you are welcome to help where you feel you can. Kryinor and Kargan I leave the questioning of Inaro to you, I will assist however you feel I can.
I will cast detect magic on the morrow and wander around the hideout to see what we have.
And lastly to our new friend, Master Barbarian you acquitted yourself well this day and I for one are heartily glad for your arrival. I do not presume to speak for my friends but you are welcome any time. What bring you to these parts? You seem to be a long way from your home, yes? You have performed mighty deeds this day! Tell us about you! Surely you have a fine tale to tell!"
Brecca; feeling good with his belly full and an ale in his hand, explains his connection to the druids and his mission which lines up with their own.
"I would love to join your party, if you will have me. Clearly our aims are the same and you seem stout fellows who enjoy a fight, in the right cause. I cannot hep feeling what you have seen may be just the beginning of what is to come..." he trails off thoughtfully.
" I do feel finding this Gundren fellow should be a priority." he concludes after considering their tale further.
"Och, saving Gundren has always been the priority, this little skirmish was naught but an amusing diversion. First thing in the morn' I will ha'e a few questions for our captives, an' they better hope I like their answers!!"
There is much enthusiastic agreement as Titus lays out his plans for arming, equipping, and training of a village militia. Daran Edermath the who's orchard lies on the north western edge of Phandalin comes over and says, "An excellent Idea Master Tutis. Things seem to be heating up around here of late and I think we are not as safe as we hoped we were." He rubs a calloused hand bearing many scars on a grey stubbled chin, "In my younger days I did some mercenary work on the Dragon Coast and had thought my soldiering days were behind me. But trouble may be found everywhere and if you don't look for it, it will eventually find you." He chuckles, "When you have some free time I would like to have a drink with you and offer my help with your readying the town for trouble. I may not be as spry as I used to be and have held a pruning saw more than a sword of late, but I will not run from danger."
"An excellent suggestion Titus. I would indeed welcome you assistance in securing the town and teaching the Phdalanians to defend themselves. I think I could also arrange a small ,though suitable stipend, for your efforts through my masters the Lords Alliance." He says with a wink.
A few moments after Sildar makes his offer, Halia, who runs the Miners Exchange, comes over to Titus and asks to have a quiet word in his ear. "Did you keep our conversation yesterday in mind Master Titus? Were you able to recover any useful correspondence from the wizards chambers?"
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Late the next morning you all wake, breakfast and make your way over to the Twonmasters Hall. Sildar sits in his office with a large mug of something strong, warm, and spiced on his table and a frustrated frown on his face.
"That blasted Inaro knows nothing of any use, well of little use any way. He has no idea where Cragmaw Castle, or Wave Echo cave are. I did manage to get it out of him that this 'Black Spider' is a Drow Elf. Nothing good can come of that I am sure. Where ever those capricious fey walk there is nothing but death and chaos."
He then flops down in his rather large and comfortable chair, "Excuse me, please have a seat and something warm to drink," he indicates a small stove in the corner with a large silver pitcher on the heating plate, and a table next to it with a few goblets.
"...and that thug, just a simple brute nothing more. I'm shipping Inaro off to Waterdeep for trial and what ever punishment our masters deem fit to give him...Traitor..." taking a large gulp of drink and wiping his chin he continues, "I seems we are not much the wiser, and still in desperate need of all of your help."
"To that end we need to talk about some ideas for defense of Phadalin, raising and training a militia, finding Cragmaw Castle, rescuing Gundren and his brothers, and dealing with this 'Black Spider'." He begins to shuffle some papers on his desk, "Perhaps we start with finding Cragmaw, I can in confidence off you a reward of 500 gold pieces if you can locate this nest of goblins and either eliminate them, or chase them off to parts unknown."
"Now to your needs...?"
To Halia: "My dear mistress I do recall our discussions. Unfortunately I have no papers to offer at this stage. But I can claim the town is free of brigands, so I'll gladly take possession of the 80 gold and when i have any papers I'll come and see you for the other 20." I'll continue mingling while she retrieves the money.
To Sildar that night: "Excellent! Any stipend would be welcome My Lord (winking back) I'll arrange letters of banking with your approved agent in town, perhaps you can lend me your clerk tomorrow afternoon and have a meeting posted for the town at the same time?"
To Sildar the next day: "My Lord I wish to see the wizards effects. Much could be gained there. Of Course we need complete secrecy about any activities we undertake towards gundren and cragmaw. And may i be sold bold as to ask that you allow us to question Inaro?" "Drow! Pit pipers the lot of them. If Drow are involved then this matter must be settled at all costs. Their stench must always be eliminated wherever it's found!" If Sildar acquiesces I'll then go through Inaro's personnel effects he was captured with and cast detect magic while doing it.
To Daran: "Soldiers may grow old my friend, but our duty never ends. We can only be relieved by the graceful embrace of mother earth. I'll gladly accept your help friend. What is your preference? Ranged or melee? Seek me out tomorrow afternoon for I shall be in town organising the town defences."
That afternoon: I will speak to the gathered people about forming a militia/Town Watch. I will ask for people with trades/skills to make themselves known to the clerk so that Sildar can give instructions for the siting and building of a watch tower adjacent to the town square. People who want to train will be lined up and names taken. I will impress upon them they do this for their town and their well being. one at a time they will be given a sword to swing at a bag stuffed full of cloth hanging nearby, then a spear to stab at a plank of wood lastly a questioned as to who knows and hunts with a bow. They will be divided into archers/spearmen/swordsmen and that recorded against their name and told they may change later during training, once names are taken they will be told that whenever a red flag is hoisted on the town square mast whoever is able should muster there for training. They will be given a weapon to care for at their first training. I will then dismiss them and talk to any who have questions.
Once back at base I'll cast detect magic again and go for a walk around the place starting in Inaro's chambers and spend a bit of time searching the place again including armoury and weapons of slain.
Once back their we can start distributing loot I suppose if people are up to it I cant remember what been found.
"What of the grobbi we captured, if ye cannae get naught from him let me at 'im, I can be very persuasive!! "
OOC: Questions for Don:
Did Kriynor find anything on the wizard or thug when he searched them?
Was Kriynor able to retrieve his axe?
What happened to the Aderleaf farm, did the fire continue to burn?
Were the two families that we saved okay?
Kriynors ears prick up when brecca mentions the druid Riedoth "I was talking to Quelline about Riedoth, she thought he might be able to tell us where the cragmore goblin hideout is. Do you where would could find him? i would love to ask him a few questions of my own, its not so often you run into another druid."
To the group,"It seems we have another family that is in need of some assistance, losing there home to our carelessness, i feel we owe it the the aderleafs to help them rebuild there home or atleast fund its rebuild. If it wasnt for the brave young carp we would have had a much harder task of sneaking up on those bugbears.
To Titus "I think i need some more training before i go into battle as a dire wolf again... just to get my bearings. Tomorrow i think i will head into the forest and see if i can work on my shifting ability for a couple of hours.
to Kargan: " your right my friend, getting Gundren back is our first priority, lets see if the goblin knows the way.
The next day i will start by gathering all the loot that we acquired and cast the ritual detect magic on them to see if anything has a magical aura.
In the afternoon while titus is organizing the townsfolk i will slip away and run through the woods as a dire wolf tracking and getting a sense for the size and feel of the beast i have shifted into.
OOC: Answers for Kryinor.
Did Kriynor find anything on the wizard or thug when he searched them?
Yes and you have ample time to take them somewhere else if you wish :) Kryior found his Glass staff, a curved silver dagger, a waxed leather satchel containing - a healing potion [2d4+2] and a scroll of charm person (wizard scroll), 50 gp, and a plain set of traveling clothes]
Was Kriynor able to retrieve his axe?
Yes he was.
What happened to the Aderleaf farm, did the fire continue to burn?
Unfortunately yes, the fire was too advanced for Qelline and Carp to do much. Kryinor and Kargan would not have been able to do much either. The rest of the buildings, barn etc are ok though.
Were the two families that we saved okay?
Yes. Early in the morning Mrina, Qelline, and the children come back to town with Nilsa in the lead prodding the captured goblin along with a spear. They seem none the worse for wear, physically, and better after a nights rest. Nilsa delivered the goblin into Sildar's custody. Mrina has invited Qelline and Carp back to their home for the time being until something can be done about the farm house or another place for them to live can be found.
Detect Magic: The Staff, the healing potion, The scroll, and the long sword from the cyclpops' loot box are all magical. Any other new items from the hide out or the possessions of the thugs are mundane.
For Titus:-
Halia frowns at your reply. "I have the agreed sum on me master Elf and will pay the the portion you request. But take heed this is a contract between us if you take the gold and if any papers do turn up I will expect them to be delivered to me, or an account of their contents. I also expect truth, honour, and fair play in those I hire to complete a task." She holds up a hand to forestall any challenge, "You've been all of those thus far, and I have no reason to expect otherwise, I am just letting you know that there are consequences if your exemplary behavior done not continue." With that she takes out a fine supple doeskin bag and removes some coins from it. Placing it in your hand, "80 gold, part payment for a job not yet complete. I look forward to your next report." Then she moves off towards the door of the Inn.
Daran nods thoughtfully, "Agreed friend. I am a blades-man, bu I used the bow to some effect. I have also lead warriors in the past. I will see you tomorrow, I am happy to offer any help a grey haired veteran can provide." He smiles, shakes your hand and then moves off.
The next day:-
Sildar agrees to let you question the prisoners, "I'm not sure who much more you'll get out of them, and remember I need them alive and talking for transport and trial in Neverwinter." He chuckles.
"As for Inaro's possessions, all he had were his clothes, I assumed he was disarmed by you before being delivered into custody. Be careful wizards are want to carry around dangerous toys."
For Kargan:-
"A young lass, NIlsa?...handed the goblin over to me this morning. There is fire in that one mark me. I have asked him a few questions, he seems a weak minded thing not capable of much. Rather ill treated by the looks of him. I gained little of use out of him, and am at a loose end with what to do with him to be honest." Sildar sighs, "If you can think of any use for him I will happily release him into your custody...he may make a reasonable guide to the east if watched..."
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After questioning the prisoners;
You find all of the prisoners surly but co-operative. Unfortunately you have the same results as Sildar. No one ca tell you where Castle Cragmaw is or where to find Wave Echo Cave. The goblin's name is Droop and he tells you that the Bugbears were working for The Spider and knew the way to both places but he was kept in a bag most of the time and can not find either location. Droop offers his help, "I maybe find way when we get close to there. I am far form home and don't know that way back. But when close maybe then know a way..."
Inaro also confirms that the bugbears were his go betweens and that all of his dealing have been with them or via correspondence.
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Later that afternoon, about a two dozen villagers, most of the able fighting aged people of the town in fact, gather in the square. You hand out weapons to men and women and a few youths, according to their sized, taste and skill. In fact you soon run out of equipment, and out of nowhere Linene of the Lion Shield Coster turns up with a hand cart full of simple yet effective arms and armour, "For Phandalin," she says with a smile. "I want our home to be safe. I am not much of a fighter, but have the means to arm those that are. Take what you need Captain Titus."
Daran is there in old, worn, yet well maintained armour, with a sword belted to his hip that must have been a gift from a rich noble. It is one of the finest long swords you have ever seen. He helps you teach the volunteers how to use and maintain their arms and armour, and proves a very able second. He is well known and liked by the villagers and is a font of knowledge about them and the area around the town. "We''ll have them whipped into some kind of fighting form in no time Captain!" he says enthusiastically.
After a few hours of acclimation and basic training you say your good byes to the new rough, and very green militia of Phandalin. Happy that there were no injuries and to see the men and women walk off confident and with hope. Phandalin has grown stronger this day.
Kryinor once again becomes the wolf and moves off into the nearby Forrest. Moving through the trees and the underbrush you get a feel for the physical form of the creature and become more confident and comfortable in this huge four legged fury skin. You feel the wolf spirit within you and begin to better see the world as the wolf does feeling some deeper connection forming. You wonder if you spend too much time like this if you might loose your self.
"Brother Two-Four Leg you well?" A Ripper's familiar presence touches your mind, "The pack not far, can come if danger..."
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Later @ the Hideout;
You scan the underground complex again, this time with care and the freedom of no other pressing action to distract you. You find some valuable ingredients in the laboratory, but nothing else new. You are quite sure that you have are now well acquainted with the lair and there are no other secrets to discover. There is time to remove the rest of the bodies and clean up a bit before you are ready to call it a day.
OOC - Don -
Don: did i find any paperwork in Inaro's study/room?
If not I will send a letter to Halia via Nilsa -
My Dear Mistress Halia,
Unfortunately I cannot locate any of Inaro's papers. I have conducted a thorough search to no avail. It appears he has committed all information to mind with no records made. Further, upon questioning he appears a rather small cog in the wheel. I will forgive your previous impertinence as I know that humans can be flighty creatures and far too quick to conclusions. Let us be friends, its always far more advantageous to all involved when friendship abounds in place of animosity. In this spirit I offer this - tell me more about your understanding of this region and of what other happenings you might know and I will pass to you any information I may come across in the future, such an arrangement can be of benefit to all involved.......
At Your Leisure
Titus Vespasianus
.
Well friends let's see what we have while we talk about our next move.
(I produce the 80gp and place it on the table) I suggest we take a float of 10gp and give that to mistress Mrina to run our new home while we're away.
OCC:- Dave/Titus
The papers in Inaro's chambers were mostly correspondence to apothecaries and herbalists for supplies and equipment for his laboratory. Theonly real incriminating/important piece of paper works was the letter from the Black Spider; [included here for convenience :)]
"Lord Albrek,
My spies in Neverwinter tell me that strangers are due to
arrive in Phandalin. They could be working for the dwarves.
Capture them if you can, kill them if you must, but don't allow
them to upset our plans. See that any dwarven
maps in their possession are delivered to me with haste.
I'm counting on you, larno. Don't disappoint me."
Hope this helps :)
OOC: - Don
Do I know Lord Albrek's family? (I am assuming Larno is Larno Albrek?
Int check: 2