"Targor, is that you?" one of the hobgoblins shouts through the door. "Who attacked us this time? Was it those elves?"
The hobgoblin patrol waits for about thirty seconds before they get suspicious. Luckily, that is enough time for you all to disappear into the dark, dense forest. Perhaps King Grol will have his revenge someday, but not this day.
OOC:
I just assumed before that y'all would head straight to Phandalin (and that is what Gundren urges you to do) but you don't have to do that. What do you do and which direction do you go as you travel through the forest?
Dunkin/Brown Bear nods his assent. He tests the wind (Perception = 9+3 = 12) then sets off Southwest, making for the Triboar trail and hoping to avoid the hobgoblins near the South door. If Gundren or one of his companions lags, he slows and bends a shoulder to offer a ride.
You pass through the dark forest, taking roughly the same route as you did just a few hours earlier. It is easy to avoid potential threats as they come. Gundren soldiers on doggedly; with some help, he keeps up with you all despite his weakened state. By the time the sun has risen, you're out of the Neverwinter Woods. Soon after, you arrive in Phandalin.
OOC: It has been 24 hours since your last long rest ended; if you do anything before resting, you will take a level of exhaustion. If any of you do choose to stay awake, a DC 10 Intelligence (Investigation) or Wisdom (Perception) check reveals:
There is a commotion coming from the Sleeping Giant tavern. All day, red-cloaked thugs seem to be going in and out nonstop, some bearing weapons. They mostly go westward, or come from that direction.
Gundren invites you for dinner at the Stonehill Inn. When the time comes, he has cleaned himself up and looks healthier already. He pays for all the food and drinks you want and gives each of you a sack of coins. He says, "My friends, thank you for saving my life. I was certain I would die in that castle. I have here the twenty-five gold pieces for each of you, and the ten gold pieces you are owed for delivering my mining supplies. But that is not enough of a reward for what you've done. I have spoken with Ms. Thornton at the Miner's Guild. She has kindly drafted a contract offering you a share of my mine’s wealth once it is up and running. That won't be for several months, but if those caves contain what I think they do, we will all become rich beyond comprehension, if . . ."
Gundren takes a long drink of ale for dramatic effect before continuing, ". . . if we can take it. The caves were full of monsters last I was there, and even worse, a drow called the Black Spider took my map. I'm sure he's going there right now, probably with Cragmaw goblins or human mercenaries, if not other dark elves. It won't be easy, and what I've just given you is the last of my gold. I think we can count on Sildar to help us, but other than him it's just us. I don't know where my brothers are; I hope they are safe. Will you help me find them and take back the mine?"
Gundren places a piece of parchment in front of you all. It is a contract offering you all a 10% share (2.5% each) of profits of the Rockseeker Mine, in exchange for your clearing it of trespassers and monsters.
If pressed, Gundren reveals what he found in his mine:
"I found the Wave Echo Cave and the legendary Forge of Spells itself," he whispers. "I swear I did, and that's why the Black Spider wanted my map."
Those pass a DC 10 Intelligence (History or Arcana) check know that the Forge of Spells is indeed a powerful artifact capable of enchanting magical items, was created by Dwarves and Gnomes, and was said to have been lost somewhere in the Phandalin area, in a place called Wave Echo Cave.
OOC:
That's 35 Gp for each of you. If one of you makes a DC 10 Charisma (Persuasion) check, Gundren will increase his offered reward for clearing the mine.
Chase sleeps. When Gundren makes his offer Chase does hungrily press for more details, having heard the tales, Chase is more excited than ever before knowing his greatest crafting is soon to be fulfilled. Lastly Chase does encourage Gundren to reward his business partners nay his friends with a bump more…
persuasion 21
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War. Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle. Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver. Atigash Count’s Lament.
At the outskirts of Phandalin Dunkin reverts to halfling form. He rests and then makes his way to the Stonehill Inn to meet his companions. After an ale and some hearty food, he listens to Gundren’s offer, excited about the prospect of the mysterious mine. However, just before he signs a strange detail comes back to him.
”Hey, Chase. When that drow took off with Nyli at his heels he called you ‘friend’. What did he mean by that?”
“You are referring to this?” Chase looks Dunkin in the eyes. “I assure you I have no idea what you’re talking about ‘twas a goblin said that to me charmed by my presence you might say.”
Having rested and recharged, Nyli joins the others for dinner. She listens quietly as Gundren explains his finds and his offers. She quietly takes the pouch of gold and stashes it away. She sits quietly as the others discuss the mine and its worth. She waits for a lull in the conversation before speaking; "If you want my aid in retaking the mine then you have it, but a share in it will be worthless to me. Once our tasks here are done I will be moving on, there is still much for me to see. I would ask instead that it is given to Sister Garaele, she will make sure any gains are used wisely."
Turning to Chase she continues "Speaking of Sister Garaele, I believe we have a task to complete."
Chase grumps a little perturbed at Dunkin’s insinuation, “And I’m no friend of goblins either.” He quickly gathers his belongings, “True Nyli let’s be on our way.”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War. Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle. Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver. Atigash Count’s Lament.
A weary Doldek collapses in his bed upon arrival at the inn. Accepting Gundren's invitation, he barely picks at his food. He's politely waiting for an opportunity to interrupt with his concerns about the Redbrands and their possible role in Gundren's abduction. But after Chase coaxes Gundren to reveal the discovery of Wave Echo Cave, he spits a mouthful of ale back into his mug. Between wheezing and coughing, "By Oghma's grace! This is the opportunity of a lifetime! Nay, several lifetimes, by my count. I would be honored to assist you." He starts to take another sip from his mug before sheepishly asking for another.
Dunkin holds up his hands embarrassingly. “Sorry, Chase. I meant no disrespect, and your honor in battle has been exceptional. It’s just that one don’t see a drow that often, let alone one who speaks to you.”
He grimaces as Chase and Nyli get up to leave. “Hey, Innkeeper! Another ale for me and my friend here, pointing to Doldek.”
Gundren is so overjoyed that you will help him clear the mine that he's already imagining what will happen after you are successful. "Sister Garaele will be very happy to hear that, Nyli. I'm sure—actually, I'd have to ask Ms. Thornhill about this—such a large donation to the church could have some very favorable tax implications for us, not to mention its benefits the community and all that. Yes, if anyone in Phandalin could be trusted, it's her. But I still feel I owe you something, all of you, seeing as I do owe you my life and the mine won't make a silver dime without your help. So how 'bout this: you can take the first crack at the Forge of Spells; I won't use it myself until you've enchanted four items with it."
"You guys are the experts in these sorts of things, but I think we should move quickly. The sooner we get going, the less time the Black Spider will have to prepare for our arrival. There was a whole horde of undead in there last I checked; unless the Black Spider brings an army, I suspect the monsters will keep 'em busy for a few days at least. I say we take tomorrow to prepare, and set out the next day. What do you think?"
OOC:
I'm sure Gundren could've said this in fewer words, somehow. If you agree with his proposed plan, let me know what preparations you make, if any.
Gundren can be persuaded (no check required) to delay the expedition a few extra days if that is what you want. It would take 2 days to complete Sister Garaele's quest (at a minimum)
For generosity to a member of Tymora's clergy, Nyli receives a minor blessing of luck (Inspiration)
"I must insist we examine these Redbrands' connections to the Cragmaw. One needn't be the Binder to foresee an engagement with this Black Spider, only to be ambushed from the rear."
Dunkin nods at Doldek’s suggestion. “But splittin’ the party’s a bad idea, friend. Might we not help Nyli and then get to the mine? They seem dead set on this course. No pun intended. Unless you think me and you can handle them Redbrands ourselves …”
Mr. Stonehill reaches under the bar and brings out a cigar for Chase, and brings it along with another round for Dunkin and Doldek.
Nyli and Chase (and Dunkin and Doldek if they go) find Sister Garaele in silent prayer within the Shrine of Luck. If they ask about seeing Agatha in Conyberry, Sister Garaele responds, "I really appreciate your agreeing to do this for me, but there is no rush. Agatha has been dead for only a few decades, and she won't be going anywhere without our intervention. A few days won't make much of a difference to her, and with her current 'resting' place being so isolated, I doubt she would interact with anyone, let alone hurt them, in the foreseeable future. Besides, I am loathe to leave Phandalin right now; those no-good Redbrands are up to something, I'm sure." Sister Garaele doesn't know the details, but she's observed new members among the Redbrand gang, and has heard rumors that they are stockpiling weapons in the Sleeping Giant alehouse.
OOC:
If we really want to do Sister Garaele's quest immediately, we can work something out.
Assuming the whole party is pursuing the Redbrands: How do you plan to "handle" or investigate the Redbrands, and when do you begin?
Nyli looks to the others "Well, I guess we're sorting out the Redbrands first." She turns back to Sister Garaele "We will deal with Agatha soon, I promise."
OOC:
If we can capture one of the Redbrands, Nyli could disguise herself as the Redbrand and go in for a look around. Alternatively she could summon a familiar to do some snooping.
"Targor, is that you?" one of the hobgoblins shouts through the door. "Who attacked us this time? Was it those elves?"
The hobgoblin patrol waits for about thirty seconds before they get suspicious. Luckily, that is enough time for you all to disappear into the dark, dense forest. Perhaps King Grol will have his revenge someday, but not this day.
OOC:
I just assumed before that y'all would head straight to Phandalin (and that is what Gundren urges you to do) but you don't have to do that. What do you do and which direction do you go as you travel through the forest?
Back the way we came. Those Red cloaks are in for a shock.
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.
"Our priority is to return Gundren to safety. If we can make it back to Phandalin without stopping, we must attempt to do so."
"I agree, back to town and then we can rest, where it's safer."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Dunkin/Brown Bear nods his assent. He tests the wind (Perception = 9+3 = 12) then sets off Southwest, making for the Triboar trail and hoping to avoid the hobgoblins near the South door. If Gundren or one of his companions lags, he slows and bends a shoulder to offer a ride.
You pass through the dark forest, taking roughly the same route as you did just a few hours earlier. It is easy to avoid potential threats as they come. Gundren soldiers on doggedly; with some help, he keeps up with you all despite his weakened state. By the time the sun has risen, you're out of the Neverwinter Woods. Soon after, you arrive in Phandalin.
OOC: It has been 24 hours since your last long rest ended; if you do anything before resting, you will take a level of exhaustion. If any of you do choose to stay awake, a DC 10 Intelligence (Investigation) or Wisdom (Perception) check reveals:
There is a commotion coming from the Sleeping Giant tavern. All day, red-cloaked thugs seem to be going in and out nonstop, some bearing weapons. They mostly go westward, or come from that direction.
Gundren invites you for dinner at the Stonehill Inn. When the time comes, he has cleaned himself up and looks healthier already. He pays for all the food and drinks you want and gives each of you a sack of coins. He says, "My friends, thank you for saving my life. I was certain I would die in that castle. I have here the twenty-five gold pieces for each of you, and the ten gold pieces you are owed for delivering my mining supplies. But that is not enough of a reward for what you've done. I have spoken with Ms. Thornton at the Miner's Guild. She has kindly drafted a contract offering you a share of my mine’s wealth once it is up and running. That won't be for several months, but if those caves contain what I think they do, we will all become rich beyond comprehension, if . . ."
Gundren takes a long drink of ale for dramatic effect before continuing, ". . . if we can take it. The caves were full of monsters last I was there, and even worse, a drow called the Black Spider took my map. I'm sure he's going there right now, probably with Cragmaw goblins or human mercenaries, if not other dark elves. It won't be easy, and what I've just given you is the last of my gold. I think we can count on Sildar to help us, but other than him it's just us. I don't know where my brothers are; I hope they are safe. Will you help me find them and take back the mine?"
Gundren places a piece of parchment in front of you all. It is a contract offering you all a 10% share (2.5% each) of profits of the Rockseeker Mine, in exchange for your clearing it of trespassers and monsters.
If pressed, Gundren reveals what he found in his mine:
"I found the Wave Echo Cave and the legendary Forge of Spells itself," he whispers. "I swear I did, and that's why the Black Spider wanted my map."
Those pass a DC 10 Intelligence (History or Arcana) check know that the Forge of Spells is indeed a powerful artifact capable of enchanting magical items, was created by Dwarves and Gnomes, and was said to have been lost somewhere in the Phandalin area, in a place called Wave Echo Cave.
OOC:
That's 35 Gp for each of you. If one of you makes a DC 10 Charisma (Persuasion) check, Gundren will increase his offered reward for clearing the mine.
Chase sleeps. When Gundren makes his offer Chase does hungrily press for more details, having heard the tales, Chase is more excited than ever before knowing his greatest crafting is soon to be fulfilled. Lastly Chase does encourage Gundren to reward his business partners nay his friends with a bump more…
persuasion 21
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.
At the outskirts of Phandalin Dunkin reverts to halfling form. He rests and then makes his way to the Stonehill Inn to meet his companions. After an ale and some hearty food, he listens to Gundren’s offer, excited about the prospect of the mysterious mine. However, just before he signs a strange detail comes back to him.
”Hey, Chase. When that drow took off with Nyli at his heels he called you ‘friend’. What did he mean by that?”
“You are referring to this?” Chase looks Dunkin in the eyes. “I assure you I have no idea what you’re talking about ‘twas a goblin said that to me charmed by my presence you might say.”
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.
Having rested and recharged, Nyli joins the others for dinner. She listens quietly as Gundren explains his finds and his offers. She quietly takes the pouch of gold and stashes it away. She sits quietly as the others discuss the mine and its worth. She waits for a lull in the conversation before speaking; "If you want my aid in retaking the mine then you have it, but a share in it will be worthless to me. Once our tasks here are done I will be moving on, there is still much for me to see. I would ask instead that it is given to Sister Garaele, she will make sure any gains are used wisely."
Turning to Chase she continues "Speaking of Sister Garaele, I believe we have a task to complete."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Chase grumps a little perturbed at Dunkin’s insinuation, “And I’m no friend of goblins either.” He quickly gathers his belongings, “True Nyli let’s be on our way.”
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.
A weary Doldek collapses in his bed upon arrival at the inn. Accepting Gundren's invitation, he barely picks at his food. He's politely waiting for an opportunity to interrupt with his concerns about the Redbrands and their possible role in Gundren's abduction. But after Chase coaxes Gundren to reveal the discovery of Wave Echo Cave, he spits a mouthful of ale back into his mug. Between wheezing and coughing, "By Oghma's grace! This is the opportunity of a lifetime! Nay, several lifetimes, by my count. I would be honored to assist you." He starts to take another sip from his mug before sheepishly asking for another.
Int Arcana 20, History 13
Dunkin holds up his hands embarrassingly. “Sorry, Chase. I meant no disrespect, and your honor in battle has been exceptional. It’s just that one don’t see a drow that often, let alone one who speaks to you.”
He grimaces as Chase and Nyli get up to leave. “Hey, Innkeeper! Another ale for me and my friend here, pointing to Doldek.”
Gundren is so overjoyed that you will help him clear the mine that he's already imagining what will happen after you are successful. "Sister Garaele will be very happy to hear that, Nyli. I'm sure—actually, I'd have to ask Ms. Thornhill about this—such a large donation to the church could have some very favorable tax implications for us, not to mention its benefits the community and all that. Yes, if anyone in Phandalin could be trusted, it's her. But I still feel I owe you something, all of you, seeing as I do owe you my life and the mine won't make a silver dime without your help. So how 'bout this: you can take the first crack at the Forge of Spells; I won't use it myself until you've enchanted four items with it."
"You guys are the experts in these sorts of things, but I think we should move quickly. The sooner we get going, the less time the Black Spider will have to prepare for our arrival. There was a whole horde of undead in there last I checked; unless the Black Spider brings an army, I suspect the monsters will keep 'em busy for a few days at least. I say we take tomorrow to prepare, and set out the next day. What do you think?"
OOC:
If Nyli wants, Chase is ready to go. Before exiting the inn he inquires of the innkeeper, “Do you happen to have a cigar or a pipe a tobacco?”
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.
"I must insist we examine these Redbrands' connections to the Cragmaw. One needn't be the Binder to foresee an engagement with this Black Spider, only to be ambushed from the rear."
Dunkin nods at Doldek’s suggestion. “But splittin’ the party’s a bad idea, friend. Might we not help Nyli and then get to the mine? They seem dead set on this course. No pun intended. Unless you think me and you can handle them Redbrands ourselves …”
Mr. Stonehill reaches under the bar and brings out a cigar for Chase, and brings it along with another round for Dunkin and Doldek.
Nyli and Chase (and Dunkin and Doldek if they go) find Sister Garaele in silent prayer within the Shrine of Luck. If they ask about seeing Agatha in Conyberry, Sister Garaele responds, "I really appreciate your agreeing to do this for me, but there is no rush. Agatha has been dead for only a few decades, and she won't be going anywhere without our intervention. A few days won't make much of a difference to her, and with her current 'resting' place being so isolated, I doubt she would interact with anyone, let alone hurt them, in the foreseeable future. Besides, I am loathe to leave Phandalin right now; those no-good Redbrands are up to something, I'm sure." Sister Garaele doesn't know the details, but she's observed new members among the Redbrand gang, and has heard rumors that they are stockpiling weapons in the Sleeping Giant alehouse.
OOC:
If we really want to do Sister Garaele's quest immediately, we can work something out.
Assuming the whole party is pursuing the Redbrands: How do you plan to "handle" or investigate the Redbrands, and when do you begin?
Nyli looks to the others "Well, I guess we're sorting out the Redbrands first." She turns back to Sister Garaele "We will deal with Agatha soon, I promise."
OOC:
If we can capture one of the Redbrands, Nyli could disguise herself as the Redbrand and go in for a look around. Alternatively she could summon a familiar to do some snooping.
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
“Good then let’s deal with this misguided gang of no good bullies and ruffians!” Chase looks for a candle or fireplace to light his cigar.
He looks at Dunkin and just nods, “Ready when you are.”
Eron, Greyhawk: Tides of War.
Zinzenzax, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle.
Chase, mamoduck’s Lost Mine of Phandelver.
Atigash Count’s Lament.