"Seems that some ne're-do-wells were running a smuggling operation out of the cave, under a wizard formerly known as Sanbalet-the-Magnificent, now just Sanbalet-the-Pompous-and-Dead. They used old ghost stories to keep people away, though there ended up being some merit to those stories. Regardless, we can leave that place to rot, and perhaps find a more reputable buyer for these goods."
Gulin finishes his round of labor, stretching his arms and releasing a yawn. "Ned, you said you were a sellsword. Care to use that sword arm to good purpose and take a turn at the oars?"
The dwarf then relaxes, kicking up his feet onto bolts of cloth while lighting his pipe anew and regarding the members of his party. "Now that we have a moment to relax. Caspia, tell me, how did you come to the surface life? Seems like you've adapted relatively well, not so much a fish out of water anymore."
“I’m afraid my tale is not very interesting. My parents died when I was still young by Triton standards and I wanted to see and explore more of the dry lands. My family were navigators by trade, so I took up the business above the oceans as a way to explore this new place. I have only been on the dry lands less than a year.”
Caspia’s expression darkened: “However, now that I have repaid my debt to Angus and the healer, I wish to find out what happened to the ship and crew. I have no memory of the shipwreck or the fate of my crew members. My only memory is waking up in Angus’s hut.”
“How about you, Gulin? What brings you here to Salt Marsh and the aid of a Triton and human exploring a house of ghosts?”
"Ah, tell me lass, have you ever hold of the great dwarfhold of Korgan Duum?"After pausing a moment, a twinkle in his eyes before he observes blank stares being returned, he gives a sigh and continues. "No, of course not. It was a great holding of dwarfs in the mountain ranges somewhere to the west of Keoland. The clan that hailed from there, the Runehammers, were known as the greatest mage-smiths to ever wield a smith's hammer and cast a spell. They were my clan."
"Korgan Duum fell to the ravages of a great war, and the surviving royal children scattered in four directions, each carrying a tome of arcane smithing secrets. I found words... rumors, really, that one of the royal children passed through Salinmoor. I seek to pick up the trail, if I can."
"As for why I wanted to tag along to this haunted alchemist's house, well, I had to pay my passage with the Copperlock clan, and owe them a repaired machine. I was hoping to find a alchemical solution that would help dissolve ore and get their mine back operational."
He turns to Zi. "You said you know someone in Saltmarsh who speaks Gnomish? Between the tools and supplies we've collected, and with some help parsing whatever damn encoding the tinker-gnome did in his instruction manual..." Gulin says, removing a messy stack of paperwork from one of his satchels and flopping it around dramatically. He continues, "Perhaps I can complete the job and then continue my real mission here." Regarding Caspia, he adds, "And perhaps in the meantime find out what happened to your shipmates!"
Reynnar slowly walks to the two guards, his feet sore and his false vestments dusty from days on the road. As he approaches, he gives the sign of the rising sun, a blessing/greeting used by worshipers of Pelor. He then begins to speak in slightly accented common.
"May the eyes of Pelor be upon you, good sirs. I am a simple servant of the Sun god looking to spread His light to this corner of the world. It has been a long road and I simply seek a place where I may get some food, rest and a bath."
As I converse with the guards, I'm looking to ask about
a place to sleep, with a bit of privacy to do my planning/preparations for casing the rich folk of the city
general sentiment with respect to the mines
who are the less scrupulous members of higher society here
Ned stammers "S-s-sure" to the dwarf, takes the oars, and begins to row.
Ned Athletics Check: 9
Zi looks excitedly at Caspia, "A navigator you say! I'm sure you must have seen strange and wonderful lands in your travels! There are some pretty interesting places just inland of Saltmarsh, but I am sure you are already planning on how to find your next ship!" The cleric pauses and taps the side of the rowboat, "As fine as this boat is, it isn't exactly any good for anything but the calmest of days. I'm not even sure what we do with this rowboat. Does anyone else have any ideas?"
Angus, hearing Caspia and Zi speak of Caspia's debt lifts the terrarium containing the cinderpetal. Despite the sun now beating down on the boat, the slow thrum of light can still be seen through the translucent glass. "Caspia, consider your debt paid. I believe this was the hardest item Ferrin had on his list to acquire. I should be able to find the rest of the items pretty easily on my own, and I don't mean to burden the party with my own debts."
Zi hearing her name respond to Gulin, "Yeah! The Carpenters' Guildhall is run by a dwarf. She hasn't been the most pleasant person in my experience, but she is always paying handsomely for adventurers to make expeditions into nearby hazards. My guess is if she isn't willing to give her assistance for free, a favor would more than earn a quick translation! You speak of a mission, exactly what is that? Forgive me if I have asked and already forgotten, it has been quite the night of adventuring!"
For the next hour or so the boat makes decent progress. Gulin's eyes close as he lazily naps near the prow of the boat, awaking an hour later benefiting from a short rest. Two hours after Ned began rowing, Ned keels over wheezing. "S-s-sorry. I more rely on finesse than brute strength. Th-this rowing is killing me." Zi looks out at the shore pointing towards a series of three increasingly more impressive stones jutting out above the surf from the edge of a small peninsula, "At least we are over half of the way back now. I am starting to recognize the coast. Though as cool as those rocks are, you'll know you are home when you see the two enormous standing stones jutting out of the Siren's Isle at the entrance to Saltmarsh! Poor Ned looks entirely beat. Who should take the next turn? Caspia, Angus, and myself look a little more lively than Ned and Gulin, but the sun has already reached it's zenith an hour or so ago and I am starting to worry about the time. The weather out here on the Azure Sea can be quite fickle. I'm sure Caspia could attest to that."
The first guard, a bit older than even his aged compatriot and completely bald, responds: "Ah Pelor. Been quite awhile since the sun god's priests have been through here. Funny that you should show up after a day of surprisingly good weather and a lack of clouds. Place to stay for the night you say? Well there are generally two taverns which provide rooms for the night. If you follow this road past the first intersection, first building on the right is the Wicker Goat. The owner of the establishment treats the guard pretty well, I just wish the dwarves would take their stench elsewhere."
To which the second, more heavyset second guard chimes in, "Ha! Smell you say! Sure beats the Snapping Line in the center of town. Sure the rooms are comfortable, but you awake reeking of fish! As much as I dislike the dwarves, at least at their heart they are a good folk. Most of us good old common folk from Saltmarsh just wish that the dwarves would pack up their mines and go home. Nobody asked the crown to interfere! Expanding ports and building mines? What is this town coming to?"
As the conversation continues you inquire about members of high society. The first guard scratches at his non-existent head-full of hair. "High society you say! Ha! I guess the town council is the closest thing we have. Somehow, despite there being five of them, it seems that the council is always split. They never manage to find the balls to tell those dwarves to start packing! Eliander Fireborn is always sticking up for the crown, despite it costing him a leg in the last war, and a royal decree put the dwarf's leader Manistrad Copperlocks on the council! What a load of crap!"
The first guard respond back, "But at least Eda Oweland still has our backs! And as much as Gellan Primewater is a pushover dandy, at least he does what Eda tells him too! More often then not Young Anders Solmor is the one calling the shots. Anders is something of a folk hero on the docks. Rightfully been cracking down smuggling and the Sea Princes. Damn slavers."
Quickly it is apparent from the conversation with the two gossiping guards that they have taken your prompts regarding members of high-society to mean political power. They continue to prattle on about the political intrigue and infighting of the town council for the next ten minutes.
"Ah, Zi. Sorry if I was unclear. My mission, as it were, is to find out the truth behind those rumors of the dwarven princess and her tome of secrets. In the meantime, gainful employment is a good a start as any."
Gulin looks at Ned. "No worries, mate." As he looks out over the water, he pauses a moment, remembering the last rowboat experience. "If your the finesse type, perhaps you're good with a bow?" Gulin pulls the bow and arrows that were 'acquired' from the elven scout out of the bag o' loot, and hands it over to Ned.
He then summons Avalloc, the red kite appearing in a poof of gray wispy smoke and feathers. The bird looks at Gulin, and pecks at his arm. "Sorry, Avalloc. I figured you were hunting. But need your eyes on the horizon." The bird seems to give a nod, then flys upward.
Avalloc Perception 16
"Suppose Zi can take the next shift, then Caspia hopefully finishes off the trip? Think Angus might have the same issues as Ned here. Slim of frame and all that."
Ned thanks the dwarf for the bow and arrows. "T-to-too bad I didn't have this earlier. C-cccould have helped with the spiders." You watch as he expertly notches an arrow. It is obvious that despite the man's stammer he is trained in the use of a bow. Zi heads to the back of the rowboat and takes the oars.
Zi Athletics: 8
As Zi rows she talks, "Have we given any thought of what we will do when we return to Saltmarsh, besides Angus just handing his flower over to Ferrin? I really think we should inform the town council. They will want to know about Sanbalet's smuggling operation at the mansion."
Ned offers the counterpoint, "Ttt-though they may con-onfiscate your new found gains. I-I-I doubt the au-authorities will let you keep these casks and bolts. Mayhaps this is a matter better kept between ourselves."
Zi's eyebrows furl for a few seconds as she silently thinks. The cleric then speaks up, "As much as it would pain me to take such an action which might not fall entirely in-line with the laws of Saltmarsh, by Procan's divine rules of salvage, the fruits of our adventure in the coastal mansion should be ours. My vote is to still inform the council, though I leave the decision to Gulin and Caspia."
While the party is conversing, Zi--similar to Ned--struggles at rowing the boat. Maybe fatigue from the fights within the mansion has set in, or perhaps the cleric is held back by her armor. Either way, it is middle of the afternoon with the sun beating down by the time the Cleric throws in the towel, "Caspia, I believe this is your turn."
Caspia Athletics: 20
The triton silently takes the handles of the oars and begins to row. Her paladin training has prepared her well for hard labor, and once again the boat picks up speed. The hours pass and the sun begins to set over the west. It is early evening when Zi exclaims and points, "See there up ahead! The standing stones on Siren's Isle, we can't be more than another half hour away."
You look up and see fishing boats in the distance pasing by two enornous stone rocks in the center of a small island at the base of the entrance to Saltmarsh. Gulin remembers this vision well from his first journey to the town. The fishing boats appear to be re-entering Saltmarsh's harbor, likely seeking shelter for the night. The setting sun is casting long shadows from the cliffs across the Azure Sea. Ned turns to the group, "W-w-well then, looks like you two are the ones calling the shots. Caspia and Gulin, de-de-decide soon how you would want to proceed."
Zi turns to the dwarf, "Well it really depends on what you plan to do with the goods. We could always turn them over to the council, in which case their origin doesn't matter. Ned is right though, without an import license from the crown, the dockmaster would likely just confiscate the goods. If you want to sell them, it may not be the best idea to sail straight into the harbor. If anyone noticed them and took a particular interest, the casks and bolts could become a matter for the council to decide their fate. I doubt anyone will care about the various other items we found in the mansion."
Zi's eyes run thoughtfully up and down the length of the boat as Caspia rows, after a moment of introspection she adds, "Regarding our method of travel, well one more rowboat in the harbor should be pretty nondescript. As long as you don't leave it obnoxiously parked , and move it somewhere safe within a day or two, I doubt anyone will ask where it came from or who it belongs too."
"Hmm. Perhaps we use the cloth and casks as proof to the council, recovered goods from a murderous smuggler. And perhaps that will carry some good favor and additional coin from the township without having to set up Caspia and Gulin's Secondhand Cave Booze and Silk Emporeum in the market... Caspia, your thoughts? "
Reynnar begins to put a mental list together of the men named, making note that it may be worth his while to check into some of these folks, particularly the dwarves. "Where there's mines, there's money, and typically people who don't deserve that money..." he thinks to himself.
After thanking the guards, Reynnar heads off in the direction of the Wicker Goat. It sounds like a respectable place, just the sort of place that can lend a touch of credibility to a man like Reynnar. On the way, he slips off into a nearby alley to change out of the priest's garb and into his normal streetclothes.
Stealth roll to slip into the alley, change and leave unnoticed: 18
Following the short detour, he heads towards the Wicker Goat to find some food, drink, and a nice bath.
The guards pay no mind as you pas through the gate. You continue to hear their gossip as they fall back into the distance. You walk for about a block before reaching the first two buildings in Saltmarsh. On your left built on a hill is a stout structure made of stone. You see three to four guards patrolling it's perimeter. On the right is a two story wooden building with a sign over it's door identifying it as the Wicker Goat. The old men were right, it was pretty much the first building in town. Despite their praise the building looks ancient and weathered on the outside. Glancing about you notice that there is little foot traffic in this part of town at this hour. You duck behind the Wicker Goat, putting your fake vestments in your pack, changing out a shirt, and applying a little additional dirt to your pants. You are confident that nobody noticed you.
Entering the building you are greeted by laughter, warmth, and the smell of fresh food. Despite it's outward appearance, the interior is respectable. At one end of the room is a fireplace with a mantle. It is followed by half a dozen tables, half-way filled with individuals eating dinner. Of note at the table closest to the fireplace is a middle-aged female dwarf at the table closest to the fireplace. She is currently not eating, but instead working through a stack of papers, with a tankard in hand.
On the other end of the tavern lies a wooden bar with open bar-stools and a muscled white haired human with a handlebar mustache cleaning a tankard. Along the back wall is a set of stairs leading to a second floor.
Reynnar sits down at the bar and signals for the bartender for a pint of whatever's fresh and a plate of whatever is hot. He then sits quietly, seeing to his food an drink, outwardly minding his own business, but is paying particular attention to see if he can pick up on the local buzz and see if there's any rumors to be investigated.
Perception to overhear folks in the tavern: 5
Once he finishes, he once again signs for the bartender and says "Hey, the woman in the corner, do you often have folks that come to sit alone with their paperwork?"
“I agree Gulin. I prefer to travel light anyway. Let us pull in somewhere quietly and get these casks and silks to the council. It should be valuable enough to placate them anyway.”
Caspia searches the coastline, looking for a quiet, unobtrusive place to bring the rowboat in.
“Perhaps the council will know something about the shipwreck or something useful to help us. At any rate, I do not wish to fall afoul of the local authorities. Guilin, does your flying friend see anywhere we can pull in? My sea vision is good, but not as good as his.”
”Angus, thank you for your good care of me—it is not many who would willingly be in the debt of such a healer to help a stranger.” She smiled wryly tempering the cantankerous healer.
The human bartender slides a pint of ale towards Reynnar. The malty beer is surprisingly good, with a aftertaste of caramel. As Reynnar sips at the beer, he attempts to concentrate on the conversations occurring across the room. While the Wicker Goat is only half full, the inn is filled with a raucous crowd, and the half-elf is unable to make out any particular conversations.
Minutes later the bartender returns with a large ceramic covered bowl. The bowl is set down in front of Reynnar and the lid lifted. Inside is a hearty roast of beef, onion, and root vegetables, cooked in some sort of wine. Despite the unassuming exterior of the Wicker Goat, this establishment is obviously run to a high standard and you are glad you took the guards up on their recommendation.
The bartender responds to your inquiry laughs, "Paperwork? Oi, that's just Manistrad over there. The Copperlocks have a mining HQ in the town here, but that dwarf prefers easy access to ale when conducting business. I don't believe we have met before, which means you must not be from around here. I am Lankus Kurrid and I own this establishment. Interested in lodging accommodations for the night? You wouldn't want to be on the road after this hour."
Angus turns to Caspia, "Just trying to turn a new leaf and you showed up on the beach. Just wish I wasn't indebted to Ferrin as a result, but all that should soon be over!" As if to further drive the point home, Angus takes out the terrarium for all to view the slight pulse of light from the cinderpetal. "But what about you Caspia, what will you do next?"
Zi chimes in, "Caspia, I wonder if my dad found any information on your ship? Remember you left the Grinning Merfolk's figurehead at the temple. Though it may be too soon, it has only been a day. Feels like we met ages ago!"
From the Caspia spots Crabber's Cove to the east of town's harbors. She remembers from her adventures with Angus on the beach yesterday that this section of Saltmarsh is abandoned. Gulin is able to confirm this information from the eyes of Avalloc.
With two seasoned sailors--Angus and Caspia--navigating the rowboat onto the soft sandy beach of Crabby's Cove is mere child's play. There is still light in the sky as the rowboat is pulled up safely next to one of the abandoned houses. Nobody is present while you labor, Caspia's suggestion to use this cove avoided Zi's fears of the dockmaster. When the task is done, the group collapses exhausted against the loose sand and dirt.
By now each character has now taken their second point of exhaustion for being awake almost 36 hours, with the exception of Angus who only has one point of exhaustion because he did not contribute to rowing.
Zi looks back out over the water, "We were fortunate that the weather remained this calm all day. Procan was watching over us. Perhaps we should cast some of our fortune back into the sea to keep him appeased?"
As the cleric falls silent back into silent introspection you look at the rowboat. The contents are quite heavy. The five of you could attempt to carry the bolts of silk and casks of brandy back into town, or leave them here.
Angus gets off the ground, lifts the terrarium, "I think I should be going, you lot seem to have this under control. I still have my aforementioned debt to pay. Perhaps we will meet again. Caspia, you know where my house is if any of you have a need to find me." Angus nods to Gulin, "Well met dwarf, I hope you find your princess' tome." And with that you watch as the monk makes his final preparations to leave. "Oh I almost forgot, I found these in the mansion, but I think they may be of more use to you. I have no need of armor, and tobacco isn't my vice of choice" Angus takes out the pipe, scale mail, and alchemical powders he found within , carefully setting them down on the ground. He looks at the gaming dice, curls them in his fingers and states to the group, "If you don't mind I might hold onto these. With a little practice I think these may come in handy next time I am drinking at the Empty Net."
Until we find a forth person you can have one DMPC assisting your party at any time. Right now you have Zlvi, but you could theoretically switch her out for Angus. I put notes about what Angus took in Josh's google excel sheet.
"Pleased to meet you Mr. Kurrid, I'm Reynnar. I could use a room to rest a while."
After haggling for a room, Reynnar tries to get more info on the Copperlocks, seeing a possible mark.
"The Copperlocks, eh? What's the background of them, are they a good lot? I may be looking for work if I stick around." Reynnar then tries to get as much info as he can on this mining company to see if they're going to be a target, or possibly a cover for his next heist.
Once the goods are stacked within the abandoned house, Gulin takes some scrap wood and lights a small fire in the hearth with a firebolt. He takes a break, smoking on his pipe while sitting on one of the casks of ale. "Angus, I know yer anxious to get back to dice and ale, but could I ask one last favor from you? Tomorrow, once we've had a good chance to rest, would be quite nice if you could keep an eye on this bounty while we deal with the council. Though..." as he eyes the two tired ladies, and yawns himself, "maybe we reconvene in twodays time. It's been an adventure."
Looking to Ned, he notes, "Ned, seems like we have brought you to Saltmarsh, as you had intended. You have any good leads on work, or at least, places you might seek out sellsword contracts?"
Edited: removed bit about setting up a place to rest based on follow on conversation. Gulin still offers a nip of booze to anyone who wants.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Late Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Reynnar Eversharp:
Persuasion Roll: 9
You spend a few minutes attempting to haggle Lankus Kurrid down, but he is a stickler and you eventually relent to the 1 gold and 2 silver he insists as payment for your meal, ales, and a comfortable room for the night.
As Lankus servers other patrons who comes and goes, he converses with you on and off regarding the dwarves, "They are solid folk, known to aid travelers who run into trouble on that section of the coast. I've heard that they even let weary adventures lodge at their mine for rest, for a reasonable price of course. Most of the dwarves have been toiling in that mine of theirs for the last three years. There are a few of the more administrative type that work at a small office they have here in town, and Manistrad has been a staple of my establishment. She has practical turned that table into her own personal office. But who am I to complain, she always pays her tab at the end of the month and is a simple and fair woman. I'm lucky to have her as a patron."
"Some of the local folk don't care for the dwarves, or any of the Crown's development efforts. Tensions have been on the rise with the Sea Princes. They see developing towns like Saltmarsh as ripe targets to raid. The mines sending shiploads of silver out every month does paint a bit of a target on the town's back. It also didn't help that Manistrad arrived with a royal decree displacing a popular council member from a local fishing family. This rubbed those of us that don't know her the wrong way."
You are enjoying your second ale peacefully when you see a soldier of Keoland's Royal Army rush into the tavern. The soldier slams the door behind her, and rushes towards Manistrad's table. They begin to talk in a low voice that you are unable to make out from this side of the room.
"Seems that some ne're-do-wells were running a smuggling operation out of the cave, under a wizard formerly known as Sanbalet-the-Magnificent, now just Sanbalet-the-Pompous-and-Dead. They used old ghost stories to keep people away, though there ended up being some merit to those stories. Regardless, we can leave that place to rot, and perhaps find a more reputable buyer for these goods."
Gulin finishes his round of labor, stretching his arms and releasing a yawn. "Ned, you said you were a sellsword. Care to use that sword arm to good purpose and take a turn at the oars?"
The dwarf then relaxes, kicking up his feet onto bolts of cloth while lighting his pipe anew and regarding the members of his party. "Now that we have a moment to relax. Caspia, tell me, how did you come to the surface life? Seems like you've adapted relatively well, not so much a fish out of water anymore."
Short rest if we aren't on the oars?
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
“I’m afraid my tale is not very interesting. My parents died when I was still young by Triton standards and I wanted to see and explore more of the dry lands. My family were navigators by trade, so I took up the business above the oceans as a way to explore this new place. I have only been on the dry lands less than a year.”
Caspia’s expression darkened: “However, now that I have repaid my debt to Angus and the healer, I wish to find out what happened to the ship and crew. I have no memory of the shipwreck or the fate of my crew members. My only memory is waking up in Angus’s hut.”
“How about you, Gulin? What brings you here to Salt Marsh and the aid of a Triton and human exploring a house of ghosts?”
"Ah, tell me lass, have you ever hold of the great dwarfhold of Korgan Duum?" After pausing a moment, a twinkle in his eyes before he observes blank stares being returned, he gives a sigh and continues. "No, of course not. It was a great holding of dwarfs in the mountain ranges somewhere to the west of Keoland. The clan that hailed from there, the Runehammers, were known as the greatest mage-smiths to ever wield a smith's hammer and cast a spell. They were my clan."
"Korgan Duum fell to the ravages of a great war, and the surviving royal children scattered in four directions, each carrying a tome of arcane smithing secrets. I found words... rumors, really, that one of the royal children passed through Salinmoor. I seek to pick up the trail, if I can."
"As for why I wanted to tag along to this haunted alchemist's house, well, I had to pay my passage with the Copperlock clan, and owe them a repaired machine. I was hoping to find a alchemical solution that would help dissolve ore and get their mine back operational."
He turns to Zi. "You said you know someone in Saltmarsh who speaks Gnomish? Between the tools and supplies we've collected, and with some help parsing whatever damn encoding the tinker-gnome did in his instruction manual..." Gulin says, removing a messy stack of paperwork from one of his satchels and flopping it around dramatically. He continues, "Perhaps I can complete the job and then continue my real mission here." Regarding Caspia, he adds, "And perhaps in the meantime find out what happened to your shipmates!"
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Reynnar slowly walks to the two guards, his feet sore and his false vestments dusty from days on the road. As he approaches, he gives the sign of the rising sun, a blessing/greeting used by worshipers of Pelor. He then begins to speak in slightly accented common.
"May the eyes of Pelor be upon you, good sirs. I am a simple servant of the Sun god looking to spread His light to this corner of the world. It has been a long road and I simply seek a place where I may get some food, rest and a bath."
As I converse with the guards, I'm looking to ask about
Moonday Midday, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Ned stammers "S-s-sure" to the dwarf, takes the oars, and begins to row.
Ned Athletics Check: 9
Zi looks excitedly at Caspia, "A navigator you say! I'm sure you must have seen strange and wonderful lands in your travels! There are some pretty interesting places just inland of Saltmarsh, but I am sure you are already planning on how to find your next ship!" The cleric pauses and taps the side of the rowboat, "As fine as this boat is, it isn't exactly any good for anything but the calmest of days. I'm not even sure what we do with this rowboat. Does anyone else have any ideas?"
Angus, hearing Caspia and Zi speak of Caspia's debt lifts the terrarium containing the cinderpetal. Despite the sun now beating down on the boat, the slow thrum of light can still be seen through the translucent glass. "Caspia, consider your debt paid. I believe this was the hardest item Ferrin had on his list to acquire. I should be able to find the rest of the items pretty easily on my own, and I don't mean to burden the party with my own debts."
Zi hearing her name respond to Gulin, "Yeah! The Carpenters' Guildhall is run by a dwarf. She hasn't been the most pleasant person in my experience, but she is always paying handsomely for adventurers to make expeditions into nearby hazards. My guess is if she isn't willing to give her assistance for free, a favor would more than earn a quick translation! You speak of a mission, exactly what is that? Forgive me if I have asked and already forgotten, it has been quite the night of adventuring!"
For the next hour or so the boat makes decent progress. Gulin's eyes close as he lazily naps near the prow of the boat, awaking an hour later benefiting from a short rest. Two hours after Ned began rowing, Ned keels over wheezing. "S-s-sorry. I more rely on finesse than brute strength. Th-this rowing is killing me." Zi looks out at the shore pointing towards a series of three increasingly more impressive stones jutting out above the surf from the edge of a small peninsula, "At least we are over half of the way back now. I am starting to recognize the coast. Though as cool as those rocks are, you'll know you are home when you see the two enormous standing stones jutting out of the Siren's Isle at the entrance to Saltmarsh! Poor Ned looks entirely beat. Who should take the next turn? Caspia, Angus, and myself look a little more lively than Ned and Gulin, but the sun has already reached it's zenith an hour or so ago and I am starting to worry about the time. The weather out here on the Azure Sea can be quite fickle. I'm sure Caspia could attest to that."
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Reynnar Eversharp:
The first guard, a bit older than even his aged compatriot and completely bald, responds: "Ah Pelor. Been quite awhile since the sun god's priests have been through here. Funny that you should show up after a day of surprisingly good weather and a lack of clouds. Place to stay for the night you say? Well there are generally two taverns which provide rooms for the night. If you follow this road past the first intersection, first building on the right is the Wicker Goat. The owner of the establishment treats the guard pretty well, I just wish the dwarves would take their stench elsewhere."
To which the second, more heavyset second guard chimes in, "Ha! Smell you say! Sure beats the Snapping Line in the center of town. Sure the rooms are comfortable, but you awake reeking of fish! As much as I dislike the dwarves, at least at their heart they are a good folk. Most of us good old common folk from Saltmarsh just wish that the dwarves would pack up their mines and go home. Nobody asked the crown to interfere! Expanding ports and building mines? What is this town coming to?"
As the conversation continues you inquire about members of high society. The first guard scratches at his non-existent head-full of hair. "High society you say! Ha! I guess the town council is the closest thing we have. Somehow, despite there being five of them, it seems that the council is always split. They never manage to find the balls to tell those dwarves to start packing! Eliander Fireborn is always sticking up for the crown, despite it costing him a leg in the last war, and a royal decree put the dwarf's leader Manistrad Copperlocks on the council! What a load of crap!"
The first guard respond back, "But at least Eda Oweland still has our backs! And as much as Gellan Primewater is a pushover dandy, at least he does what Eda tells him too! More often then not Young Anders Solmor is the one calling the shots. Anders is something of a folk hero on the docks. Rightfully been cracking down smuggling and the Sea Princes. Damn slavers."
Quickly it is apparent from the conversation with the two gossiping guards that they have taken your prompts regarding members of high-society to mean political power. They continue to prattle on about the political intrigue and infighting of the town council for the next ten minutes.
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
"Ah, Zi. Sorry if I was unclear. My mission, as it were, is to find out the truth behind those rumors of the dwarven princess and her tome of secrets. In the meantime, gainful employment is a good a start as any."
Gulin looks at Ned. "No worries, mate." As he looks out over the water, he pauses a moment, remembering the last rowboat experience. "If your the finesse type, perhaps you're good with a bow?" Gulin pulls the bow and arrows that were 'acquired' from the elven scout out of the bag o' loot, and hands it over to Ned.
He then summons Avalloc, the red kite appearing in a poof of gray wispy smoke and feathers. The bird looks at Gulin, and pecks at his arm. "Sorry, Avalloc. I figured you were hunting. But need your eyes on the horizon." The bird seems to give a nod, then flys upward.
Avalloc Perception 16
"Suppose Zi can take the next shift, then Caspia hopefully finishes off the trip? Think Angus might have the same issues as Ned here. Slim of frame and all that."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Ned thanks the dwarf for the bow and arrows. "T-to-too bad I didn't have this earlier. C-cccould have helped with the spiders." You watch as he expertly notches an arrow. It is obvious that despite the man's stammer he is trained in the use of a bow. Zi heads to the back of the rowboat and takes the oars.
Zi Athletics: 8
As Zi rows she talks, "Have we given any thought of what we will do when we return to Saltmarsh, besides Angus just handing his flower over to Ferrin? I really think we should inform the town council. They will want to know about Sanbalet's smuggling operation at the mansion."
Ned offers the counterpoint, "Ttt-though they may con-onfiscate your new found gains. I-I-I doubt the au-authorities will let you keep these casks and bolts. Mayhaps this is a matter better kept between ourselves."
Zi's eyebrows furl for a few seconds as she silently thinks. The cleric then speaks up, "As much as it would pain me to take such an action which might not fall entirely in-line with the laws of Saltmarsh, by Procan's divine rules of salvage, the fruits of our adventure in the coastal mansion should be ours. My vote is to still inform the council, though I leave the decision to Gulin and Caspia."
While the party is conversing, Zi--similar to Ned--struggles at rowing the boat. Maybe fatigue from the fights within the mansion has set in, or perhaps the cleric is held back by her armor. Either way, it is middle of the afternoon with the sun beating down by the time the Cleric throws in the towel, "Caspia, I believe this is your turn."
Caspia Athletics: 20
The triton silently takes the handles of the oars and begins to row. Her paladin training has prepared her well for hard labor, and once again the boat picks up speed. The hours pass and the sun begins to set over the west. It is early evening when Zi exclaims and points, "See there up ahead! The standing stones on Siren's Isle, we can't be more than another half hour away."
You look up and see fishing boats in the distance pasing by two enornous stone rocks in the center of a small island at the base of the entrance to Saltmarsh. Gulin remembers this vision well from his first journey to the town. The fishing boats appear to be re-entering Saltmarsh's harbor, likely seeking shelter for the night. The setting sun is casting long shadows from the cliffs across the Azure Sea. Ned turns to the group, "W-w-well then, looks like you two are the ones calling the shots. Caspia and Gulin, de-de-decide soon how you would want to proceed."
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
Gulin looks to Zi. "Which specific laws of Saltmarsh might we be astray of for bringing back this salvage, as you say?"
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Zi turns to the dwarf, "Well it really depends on what you plan to do with the goods. We could always turn them over to the council, in which case their origin doesn't matter. Ned is right though, without an import license from the crown, the dockmaster would likely just confiscate the goods. If you want to sell them, it may not be the best idea to sail straight into the harbor. If anyone noticed them and took a particular interest, the casks and bolts could become a matter for the council to decide their fate. I doubt anyone will care about the various other items we found in the mansion."
Zi's eyes run thoughtfully up and down the length of the boat as Caspia rows, after a moment of introspection she adds, "Regarding our method of travel, well one more rowboat in the harbor should be pretty nondescript. As long as you don't leave it obnoxiously parked , and move it somewhere safe within a day or two, I doubt anyone will ask where it came from or who it belongs too."
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
"Hmm. Perhaps we use the cloth and casks as proof to the council, recovered goods from a murderous smuggler. And perhaps that will carry some good favor and additional coin from the township without having to set up Caspia and Gulin's Secondhand Cave Booze and Silk Emporeum in the market... Caspia, your thoughts? "
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Reynnar begins to put a mental list together of the men named, making note that it may be worth his while to check into some of these folks, particularly the dwarves. "Where there's mines, there's money, and typically people who don't deserve that money..." he thinks to himself.
After thanking the guards, Reynnar heads off in the direction of the Wicker Goat. It sounds like a respectable place, just the sort of place that can lend a touch of credibility to a man like Reynnar. On the way, he slips off into a nearby alley to change out of the priest's garb and into his normal streetclothes.
Stealth roll to slip into the alley, change and leave unnoticed: 18
Following the short detour, he heads towards the Wicker Goat to find some food, drink, and a nice bath.
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Reynnar Eversharp:
The guards pay no mind as you pas through the gate. You continue to hear their gossip as they fall back into the distance. You walk for about a block before reaching the first two buildings in Saltmarsh. On your left built on a hill is a stout structure made of stone. You see three to four guards patrolling it's perimeter. On the right is a two story wooden building with a sign over it's door identifying it as the Wicker Goat. The old men were right, it was pretty much the first building in town. Despite their praise the building looks ancient and weathered on the outside. Glancing about you notice that there is little foot traffic in this part of town at this hour. You duck behind the Wicker Goat, putting your fake vestments in your pack, changing out a shirt, and applying a little additional dirt to your pants. You are confident that nobody noticed you.
Entering the building you are greeted by laughter, warmth, and the smell of fresh food. Despite it's outward appearance, the interior is respectable. At one end of the room is a fireplace with a mantle. It is followed by half a dozen tables, half-way filled with individuals eating dinner. Of note at the table closest to the fireplace is a middle-aged female dwarf at the table closest to the fireplace. She is currently not eating, but instead working through a stack of papers, with a tankard in hand.
On the other end of the tavern lies a wooden bar with open bar-stools and a muscled white haired human with a handlebar mustache cleaning a tankard. Along the back wall is a set of stairs leading to a second floor.
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
Reynnar sits down at the bar and signals for the bartender for a pint of whatever's fresh and a plate of whatever is hot. He then sits quietly, seeing to his food an drink, outwardly minding his own business, but is paying particular attention to see if he can pick up on the local buzz and see if there's any rumors to be investigated.
Perception to overhear folks in the tavern: 5
Once he finishes, he once again signs for the bartender and says "Hey, the woman in the corner, do you often have folks that come to sit alone with their paperwork?"
“I agree Gulin. I prefer to travel light anyway. Let us pull in somewhere quietly and get these casks and silks to the council. It should be valuable enough to placate them anyway.”
Caspia searches the coastline, looking for a quiet, unobtrusive place to bring the rowboat in.
“Perhaps the council will know something about the shipwreck or something useful to help us. At any rate, I do not wish to fall afoul of the local authorities. Guilin, does your flying friend see anywhere we can pull in? My sea vision is good, but not as good as his.”
”Angus, thank you for your good care of me—it is not many who would willingly be in the debt of such a healer to help a stranger.” She smiled wryly tempering the cantankerous healer.
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Reynnar Eversharp:
The human bartender slides a pint of ale towards Reynnar. The malty beer is surprisingly good, with a aftertaste of caramel. As Reynnar sips at the beer, he attempts to concentrate on the conversations occurring across the room. While the Wicker Goat is only half full, the inn is filled with a raucous crowd, and the half-elf is unable to make out any particular conversations.
Minutes later the bartender returns with a large ceramic covered bowl. The bowl is set down in front of Reynnar and the lid lifted. Inside is a hearty roast of beef, onion, and root vegetables, cooked in some sort of wine. Despite the unassuming exterior of the Wicker Goat, this establishment is obviously run to a high standard and you are glad you took the guards up on their recommendation.
The bartender responds to your inquiry laughs, "Paperwork? Oi, that's just Manistrad over there. The Copperlocks have a mining HQ in the town here, but that dwarf prefers easy access to ale when conducting business. I don't believe we have met before, which means you must not be from around here. I am Lankus Kurrid and I own this establishment. Interested in lodging accommodations for the night? You wouldn't want to be on the road after this hour."
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Angus turns to Caspia, "Just trying to turn a new leaf and you showed up on the beach. Just wish I wasn't indebted to Ferrin as a result, but all that should soon be over!" As if to further drive the point home, Angus takes out the terrarium for all to view the slight pulse of light from the cinderpetal. "But what about you Caspia, what will you do next?"
Zi chimes in, "Caspia, I wonder if my dad found any information on your ship? Remember you left the Grinning Merfolk's figurehead at the temple. Though it may be too soon, it has only been a day. Feels like we met ages ago!"
From the Caspia spots Crabber's Cove to the east of town's harbors. She remembers from her adventures with Angus on the beach yesterday that this section of Saltmarsh is abandoned. Gulin is able to confirm this information from the eyes of Avalloc.
With two seasoned sailors--Angus and Caspia--navigating the rowboat onto the soft sandy beach of Crabby's Cove is mere child's play. There is still light in the sky as the rowboat is pulled up safely next to one of the abandoned houses. Nobody is present while you labor, Caspia's suggestion to use this cove avoided Zi's fears of the dockmaster. When the task is done, the group collapses exhausted against the loose sand and dirt.
By now each character has now taken their second point of exhaustion for being awake almost 36 hours, with the exception of Angus who only has one point of exhaustion because he did not contribute to rowing.
Zi looks back out over the water, "We were fortunate that the weather remained this calm all day. Procan was watching over us. Perhaps we should cast some of our fortune back into the sea to keep him appeased?"
As the cleric falls silent back into silent introspection you look at the rowboat. The contents are quite heavy. The five of you could attempt to carry the bolts of silk and casks of brandy back into town, or leave them here.
Angus gets off the ground, lifts the terrarium, "I think I should be going, you lot seem to have this under control. I still have my aforementioned debt to pay. Perhaps we will meet again. Caspia, you know where my house is if any of you have a need to find me." Angus nods to Gulin, "Well met dwarf, I hope you find your princess' tome." And with that you watch as the monk makes his final preparations to leave. "Oh I almost forgot, I found these in the mansion, but I think they may be of more use to you. I have no need of armor, and tobacco isn't my vice of choice" Angus takes out the pipe, scale mail, and alchemical powders he found within , carefully setting them down on the ground. He looks at the gaming dice, curls them in his fingers and states to the group, "If you don't mind I might hold onto these. With a little practice I think these may come in handy next time I am drinking at the Empty Net."
Until we find a forth person you can have one DMPC assisting your party at any time. Right now you have Zlvi, but you could theoretically switch her out for Angus. I put notes about what Angus took in Josh's google excel sheet.
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent
"Pleased to meet you Mr. Kurrid, I'm Reynnar. I could use a room to rest a while."
After haggling for a room, Reynnar tries to get more info on the Copperlocks, seeing a possible mark.
"The Copperlocks, eh? What's the background of them, are they a good lot? I may be looking for work if I stick around." Reynnar then tries to get as much info as he can on this mining company to see if they're going to be a target, or possibly a cover for his next heist.
Once the goods are stacked within the abandoned house, Gulin takes some scrap wood and lights a small fire in the hearth with a firebolt. He takes a break, smoking on his pipe while sitting on one of the casks of ale. "Angus, I know yer anxious to get back to dice and ale, but could I ask one last favor from you? Tomorrow, once we've had a good chance to rest, would be quite nice if you could keep an eye on this bounty while we deal with the council. Though..." as he eyes the two tired ladies, and yawns himself, "maybe we reconvene in twodays time. It's been an adventure."
Looking to Ned, he notes, "Ned, seems like we have brought you to Saltmarsh, as you had intended. You have any good leads on work, or at least, places you might seek out sellsword contracts?"
Edited: removed bit about setting up a place to rest based on follow on conversation. Gulin still offers a nip of booze to anyone who wants.
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Late Moonday Evening, Goodmonth 9th, 591 CY
Reynnar Eversharp:
Persuasion Roll: 9
You spend a few minutes attempting to haggle Lankus Kurrid down, but he is a stickler and you eventually relent to the 1 gold and 2 silver he insists as payment for your meal, ales, and a comfortable room for the night.
As Lankus servers other patrons who comes and goes, he converses with you on and off regarding the dwarves, "They are solid folk, known to aid travelers who run into trouble on that section of the coast. I've heard that they even let weary adventures lodge at their mine for rest, for a reasonable price of course. Most of the dwarves have been toiling in that mine of theirs for the last three years. There are a few of the more administrative type that work at a small office they have here in town, and Manistrad has been a staple of my establishment. She has practical turned that table into her own personal office. But who am I to complain, she always pays her tab at the end of the month and is a simple and fair woman. I'm lucky to have her as a patron."
"Some of the local folk don't care for the dwarves, or any of the Crown's development efforts. Tensions have been on the rise with the Sea Princes. They see developing towns like Saltmarsh as ripe targets to raid. The mines sending shiploads of silver out every month does paint a bit of a target on the town's back. It also didn't help that Manistrad arrived with a royal decree displacing a popular council member from a local fishing family. This rubbed those of us that don't know her the wrong way."
You are enjoying your second ale peacefully when you see a soldier of Keoland's Royal Army rush into the tavern. The soldier slams the door behind her, and rushes towards Manistrad's table. They begin to talk in a low voice that you are unable to make out from this side of the room.
DM for Out of the Abyss | Edvord Reinholdt for Killilli's Waterdeep Dragon Heist | Sergeant Cernan for Viper's Descent