What with having everything an honest Thief needs, and a solid Criminal Contact, Ash probably would lean towards ‘research’ for the week. Especially if Ben is happy to do some carousing? (happy for cost of that to be split or taken from petty cash. It benefits us all).
I’m guessing that would make her pretty tight with Krag the gravedigger anyway (for what that’s worth).
As always, she would try a little Thieves’ Cant with Krag (and anyone she meets at the library or anywhere else). Usually something like ‘Are - you - one - of - us?’. A very common (and neutral / non-threatening) opener.
She will keep a look out, at the usual places for new or changed Thieves’ Cant messages. And she will alter her own so that they now say (in secret symbols): ‘Tabaxi’ alongside ‘specialist’ and now alongside ‘work?’. She also obliterates the ‘three daggers’ messages.
These are not just for Fidd, but anyone who might know The Cant or be part of The Trades, and see them. Anyone in town might respond or approach her directly, or indirectly.
Back while still out on the trail, back into town, Ash would have replied to Ess with,, “That wasn’t a bad haul for a few days work, eh?... You never know what to expect when you’re told about the potential loot... ... I don’t think I can retire to the islands just yet, but now we definitely have some serious collateral behind us!”.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ben will take the money from Hanna with a bow,
"My pleasure, it's nice having an appreciative audience."
He will give Ess a nod of thanks for the compliment.
He does his bardly duties and, the next morning, is understanding of the situation with Hanna. He gives her a wink before heading for some grub.
((Ya, we've grown closer over time Klein, but that isn't the type of RP I signed up for!))
To Ess he just shakes his head,
"We've had this conversation Ess, a gentleman doesn't discuss this sort of thing."
He then lifts his eyebrows twice to emphasize how it was a good night.
As Ben has made a 'contact' at the Line he will carouse over at the Goat while Kay works the Net. He wouldn't play at the Goat however, only doing performances at the Line.
Gold: 16
((Let me know how many performance checks you think are okay for playing at the Line. Ben wouldn't play there every night, and maybe only once during the week period. Can't let people get bored of him...
Ha! Looks like people are mostly buying him drinks!))
Ash, you do indeed get rather tight with Krag (added to NPC tab) during your week together. He shows you Captain Eliander's library (the captain of the town guard member of council), and the captain actually would've been very pleased to see that you have taken a week to work with Krag to help organize his library and help with the graveyard. "Wow, is there anything that you heroes don't do?! Thank you again, Ash, for your service to this town. We've no sight of the smuggler's ship so far since you've been gone, but to be honest I'm glad you are all back in town. I assume the others returned, yes?"
As for your conversations with Krag, he'd have most of those when you were helping at the cemetery. The town’s cemetery is well-kept, but many of its graves are little more than memorial stones laid for those who died at sea. Krag had no shortage of semi-interesting tales about notorious fish and monstrous pirates which took up most of the time with him along with the actual work you were doing with organizing the library and helping around the graveyard. Krag is non-responsive to your thieves cant. However, now that the downtime is complete, you earn your pay as well as get this info about the region from Krag (everyone can read the spoilers, I'm just using them for organization):
For the research downtime: you earn enough money to afford a modest lifestyle. 7gp for the week. You also learn the following:
These locations are on the 'Marshswamp Region' tab and I've added this newly acquired information to that tab as well.
So, Krag tells you about:
Abbey Isle: A local mariners’ guild in town has been trying to claim the small, strategically located island and build a lighthouse there. But so far, its representatives have not been able to land safely on the island — every attempt to come ashore has been met by a horde of undead. The guild posts a lucrative contract offer in nearby coastal communities, seeking adventurers willing to secure the island and its burned-out abbey.
Tower on the cliff (Tower of Zenopus): The wizard Zenopus once dwelled in this tower on the cliffs outside Marshswamp. He built his lair next to the remains of an ancient graveyard rumored to be haunted. One night, the tower was engulfed in a fiery green aura. A few brave folks from town investigated the tower and found it abandoned. The door at the base of the cellar stairs was covered with strange symbols and wrapped in silver chains. An explorer tried to open the door, but a jolt of lightning from the door’s runes nearly killed her. Shortly afterward, strange spirits and capering fey were seen atop the tower. After a few travelers went missing nearby, the town council asked an orcish galleon to bombard the structure with catapult fire until it was battered into rubble. He does not know what lies there today, he could only imagine though...
Lastly for Ash, feel free to ask Krag any questions as well that you might have about Marshswamp and perhaps the people you've already met, and he will answer to the best of his ability.
Krag = Ash's research contact
Ash, throughout the week, you also notice some subtle responses to your thieves cant messages. Nothing new from Fidd, but there's something written back to your messages. Specialist - Work - Yes - Info - Warehouses - Docks - Meet - Alone. You can decide if you would've went to the docks one night to meet the person and then I will give you more info.
Korrik, Hanna would've needed help in the kitchen at the inn for sure. You manage to get a few hours in each day, and I think at this point there's no need for a roll as this is strictly mundane line work which you've mastered at this point in your career. You'd earn 7gp for the week's work all put together.
As for your carousing, Korrik you spend a lot of time at the Empty Net (#8 on the overview map).
Partially supported by stilts driven into the harbor waters, this rickety tavern is a haven for smugglers, mercenaries, assassins and even pirates. The thing is, while the party was gone, word has gotten around of the heroes busting the smuggling ring out at the haunted mansion, and I'm not sure customers in this establishment would want to speak with Korrik given he's part of the group that has just busted a smuggling operation in town. That being said, Korrik drops 9gp during the week on drinks as he chats up the owner of the place. The owner, Kreb Shenker (added to NPC tab), will take gold from anyone. Even though most of his clientele are smugglers, he is intrigued at you being part of the bust and wonders why you are spending so much time in a place like this. After a few days, he'd start to think that there might in fact be more to you than meets the eye, and eventually tells you all about Gellan Primewater, the traditionalist who is on the council who you met a few days ago.
Kreb actually works with Gellan Primewater to screen prospective buyers and sellers for smuggled wares!!
"Was Gellan there when you told council about the bust?! BAHAHA! Would've loved to have seen his face."
Gellan has positioned his family to become the most prominent merchants in town, but he now faces an intractable problem. Gellan made his fortune through smuggling, his textile and lumber exports serving as a cover for his illegal activities. When Marshswamp was a sleepy backwater, he could operate with impunity. Now that Marshswamp has attracted attention from the outside world, he sees business growing more difficult and less profitable.
Over the years, Gellan has cultivated relationships with a number of contacts. His ships move illicit goods, including slaves. Gellan takes care to keep this side of his business quiet, since any hint of involvement with slave traders would mean the end of his days in Marshswamp, if not his life.
Gellan seeks to keep his smuggling cartel functioning with as little interference as possible. Having a seat on the council puts him in a perfect position to maintain his business while supporting all aspects of the traditionalists’ agenda. His popularity in the faction is second only to that of Eda Oweland (who you also met)
Because Gellan is the wealthiest man in town, he garners a great deal of popular support from the many feasts, entertainments, and other diversions he supports with expenditures and donations. He pretends to care little for the daily functions of the council, defaulting to throw his support behind Eda’s position. In truth, this deference is a ruse he uses to mask his efforts to shield his smuggling operation.
Kreb does not think that Gellan's operations have anything to do with the smuggling ring that you just busted. (there's a few different ones in a town like this!) Gellan is smarter than that. And Kreb would've heard about it by now if so. And Kreb would not have talked to you if so either.
Kreb Shenker = Korrik's 1st carousing contact
Ben, Ess winks back at you and its very obvious. lol
Ben, please roll 2 performance checks for the week's performances at the Snapping Line Inn.
As for Ben's carousing at the Wicker Goat (#3 on the overview map):
Bearing the dubious honor of being the oldest tavern in town, the Wicker Goat is owned by Lankus Kurrid (added to NPC tab), a retired officer who caters to the dwarven miners and town guard. The two-story building has sleeping quarters for rent on the upper floor, usually sufficient to accommodate the slow stream of travelers making their way through Marshswamp on the way to somewhere else.
You drop 4gp throughout the week, which isn't a lot. It's more your personality (big surprise) which attracts Lankus to you. He tells you a lot about the dwarven mining contingent in the town, and specifics on the mine.
Dwarven prospectors have toiled in this new mine for the past three years. Soldiers are stationed here for security alongside dwarf fighters from the Copperlocks clan. Travelers in need of shelter can rest on cots in the guard towers that surround the place, but only those with business related to the mine are allowed inside the gates without supervision. The mine is a broad shaft dug into a steep hillside near the shore. Stone walls encompass it, with two guard towers overlooking the main gate and three other towers spaced evenly around the perimeter. The inner area contains a small village with warehouses, workshops, and houses, all erected during the time when the excavation was beginning and enormous amounts of stone became available for building. The laborers also took the time to build a tavern, the Miner’s Respite, and spend their off hours there drinking, swapping tales, and gambling. The game of darts has become an obsession among the bored miners and soldiers, and anyone with real skill at the game has a chance of talking their way past the guard at the door to engage in a match.
He would also tell you all about Manistrad Copperlocks, who you've already met who is on the council.
The leader of the newly established mining operation in Marshswamp is an iron-willed dwarven woman named Manistrad. She runs the mining outfit from a small office near the edge of town. Manistrad is a competent leader, as well as a savvy miner with a knack for pulling off impossible jobs. She’s convinced that the veins of silver found in the cliffs near Marshswamp are indicative of more valuable stones deeper in the rock. She was once a fearsome warrior, and she’s not above delivering a few well-placed blows to ensure her orders are followed. Manistrad occupies an awkward place on the council. She was placed in her position by royal decree; the crown decided that if Marshswamp is to support a mining operation, the miners would need a political voice. A more diplomatic figure might have smoothed over the tension, but Manistrad has little patience and sees the rest of the council, save for Eliander, as rustic dullards.
Lankus Kurrid = Ben's 1st carousing contact
So... you can also ask your contacts any questions that your character would've asked throughout the week, and I will answer them accordingly.
Maybe I will pause there and allow that process to happen, and then once I answer the questions, I think the smugglers ship might be making an appearance sooner than later... given we will be on day 12 and they are to return around the 14th day.
After I respond to the questions you might ask your contacts, it will be 5:00 PM on DAY 12. Where will you all meet back up? The Snapping Line inn, perhaps?
"Good to know we weren't stepping on his toes... to be honest, it was a sloppily run ring. There were forking pamphlets about that house strewn about! Someone would have come and cleared them out eventually if it wasn't us stumbling into it. Probably a good thing for any others operating in the area, they were leaving folk dead just lying in the basement, enough people go missing and a bigger operation gets drummed up to sniff out any and all folks who got their fingers in the game. Way I figure it, we did Mr. G a favor without knowing. Plucked the low hanging fruit before someone came along and shook the tree, as it were."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ben ponders the information Lankus gives him about the mine and getting in,
"Okay...but why? Why would I want to sneak in there? Honestly seems like a load of trouble for no reason?"
He also decides to avoid Manistrad.
Eagle's splendoring up he gives a season themed performance with illusions to match and then at the next performance he does a just a few lighter, comedic ballads.
Performance 1:13
Performance 2:16
((Ben would like to meet at Line, it's the home base for him.))
Also, he will swing by Hanna after the second performance,
"Perhaps something more romantic for you tonight as well? A bottle a wine while you listen?"
Korrik, Kreb responds "Unbelievable. I always had doubts that the place was haunted. Don't believe in ghosts much. So, how much are they paying you? The council... how much are they paying you to bust the rest of them when the ship comes back to town? Yeah that's right, word kind of gets out around here. Don't worry though, from the sounds of it, these bunch of fools aren't swift and I'm sure they won't get wind of the bust. Anyway, yeah, how much they paying you?! It seems you play both sides of the law... I heard what was retrieved from the house and from what I've heard there was supposed to be a shitton of gold in there. Didn't hear of any gold getting returned. Weird." he smiles.
"Maybe when this is all over with, you should speak with G personally. Anyhow, I've got to go clean up. Come back anytime if you have questions. Oh and good luck with the bust. The dumb forks deserve it."
Ben, Lankus looks at you in a confused way (this being an inn which is mostly frequented by the dwarven miners and the town guard) "My friend. The mine is everything. Why the hell would you NOT want to go there and help! There's no need for sneaking, the... wait, sneaking in? Why would you..."he shakes his head and kind of makes a confused frown at the same time. He continues "ANYWHO, I'm telling you now. This whole operation is relatively new, and when it takes off, and I know it will, don't you think the dwarves will be paying big bucks to the folks who were in it from the beginning? Look, if you want to help, just talk to Manistrad. She's always got tons of mine-related work for those who are interested."
"Thanks for the business though, friend. It's much appreciated. If you have any other questions about the town, do come back and ask."
Ben, you crush both of the performances. You're really feeling this venue. And the patrons are loving you. They loved the illusions and they laughed their heads off at the ballads. You're becoming a bit of a fast celebrity in the town, especially given what you and the others are doing with the smugglers.
Night 1: The tips for the performance was 77sp and 91cp. Hanna also gives you 5gp.
Night 2: The tips for the performance was 64sp and 73cp. Hanna also gives you 5gp.
Ben, Hanna responds "Oh Ben. That was, amazing! You are quite the talent, and while I can't say it wouldn't be equally as amazing, maybe just not tonight. I've got people already asking me if there's something between us. Can't say I blame them, it's hard to keep my eyes off you, Ben!" she smiles, but declines the offer. So you've had one success, and one failure with her so far. If you continue a streak one way or the other, downstream effects might happen.
So the party will meet at the line on 5:00 PM on DAY 12. You all have been meeting here throughout the week, sharing what you've all learned and just eating and chatting and getting to know each other better, waiting for news of the ship coming back.
I'm going to wait for Ash to post her contact results stuff, and then will get the next post going. Seems the ship might be coming back a few days early...
"You're the one that suggested one could get into the place by claiming they were dart players! Don't put it on me!"
Then,
"I'll keep what you said in mind about the mines and Manistrad. You make some solid points my friend. I'm not disappearing, I suspect I have more work around town. I'll see you soon."
To Hanna,
"Oh, I understand! I find my attention drawn to you whenever you are about." He gives her hand a kiss. "Another time then."
((Is Kay sharing all of his information? I think that is the most interesting to discuss now. Ben would share what he learned as well.))
((This convo is under the assumption that it's between Korrik and Kreb without any eavesdroppers. ;P))
"I don't recall the number off the top, one of my companions did the negotiating. Enough to make it worth our time! They're highly motivated to 'put an end to the smuggling', but those that play the game smart, a success should take the heat off. Kreb, you catch wind of anyone taking exception to our plans, maybe like they're looking 'teach the outsiders a lesson' sort of complaints, you let me know about it, eh, and I'll make it worth your time."
He slides a gold across the bar.
"Just to keep your ears open. Anyone comes looking to buy information about our plans, I'll double whatever they're offering if you deflect and let me know who and what they were asking about. I'd be paying you to do nothing, easiest coin to be had!"
"Yeah, we heard rumors about the place, it's what had us looking up there in the first place! "Untold riches!" and the like. Probably untold because whoever found it before we got there kept their mouths shut, or were silenced by that gang. We didn't find any shit ton of gold on those ding dongs we rolled out of there.", he shrugs.
Korrik would have been touching base with the others on a regular basis, I think we are all staying at The Line, so likely taking meals together, attending Ben's shows, etc. At some point when they converge in one of their rooms and make sure they aren't being overheard, he'll fill them in.
"Sanby and Willy were just the tip of the smuggling in this town, but the others keep a lower profile. Top of the food chain there is our friend Gellan. Seat on the council helps him avoid any complications. Pretty sure that the fellow I heard it from will be in trouble if Gellan finds out he told me, but I spun it that we weren't here to clean house, just took what was handed to us... which is pretty much what happened. Suggested we were doing the others a favor by clipping the sloppiest of operations, and that if they're smart enough they won't have a problem. Slipped the fellow a coin and a promise if he overhears any word coming our way."
"But... Gellan is in the slave trade. Don't know about you three, but that doesn't sit right with me. I don't think we can move against him now, he's got resources we can't muster, but just to put it in your heads, and maybe we see an opportunity or an angle down the road. I know you're thinking of putting down roots here Ess, so don't want to muddy the waters and leave you beached when they clear, so if we move on him, it'd either have to be to take him off the board entirely, or so he doesn't know who hit him and directs any payback elsewhere."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
To Kay's wanting to interfere with Gellan, Ben gives a non-committal,
"Mmm."
He offers,
"If we want to sneak into a silver mine, we know darts are the angle. We just need to get a reason to want to do that. Or, alternatively, we can see if anything Manistrad offers is worth or time. I can make inquiries tomorrow."
He rubs the bridge of his nose and sighs theatrically,
"And we can check that ruin of a tower on the cliff Ash found more out about. Sounds like another haunted mansion situation, honestly."
Lankus responds to Ben"Yeah... to play darts, at the Miner's Respite! It's a tavern near the mine in the village. That's where they play the darts. Guards at the tavern just love it."
((ahh I wasn't able to finish my post! I will continue it ASAP today))
((From post #1225))Ash would respond to Captain Eliandersmiling, and say “ ‘Is there anything we don’t do?’... Well, we still have to earn a living when we’re not.. er.. ‘chasing ghosts’. The others, yes they’re ‘around’. Don’t worry, we’ll be ready when we’re needed... ... And I hope when we’re ‘done’, in the next few days, we’ll at least have proven ourselves ‘useful’... ‘reliable’.... ... I’m more than happy organising the library, but I suspect you’ll be able to think of ‘other ways’ we might help”.
After getting on good terms with Krag, she’ll ask him conversationally “What’s you’re take on Captain Eliander? And the other council members? We’re trying to help the town and don’t want to get in with the wrong crowd. Who deserves our help around town, in your opinion, and who should we avoid?”.
Ash will also share the work/quest leads with the rest of the party (Abbey Isle and the ruined wizard’s tower).
As for the Thieves’ Cant message she found (ie “Specialist - Work - Yes - Info - Warehouses - Docks - Meet - Alone” ), she would keep that to herself for now. And she would follow that up, the next available night, at the specified rendezvous-point, alone.
She would scope it out as best she could as she approached then take a broad walk around the area waiting for any contact and looking for any new ‘messages’ posted anywhere too.
Ash is happy to meet at the Snapping Line Inn at 5:00 PM on DAY 12. Although she would meet the rest of the party there off-and-on during the week anyway too.
She would make a point of attending Ben’s performances and enjoy them immensely. She’s happy to be part of a crew again. More than happy to maintain a relatively high profile in town, given their good reputation, and be part of the cool crowd ((reflected cool from Ben mostly I think)).
Each day, she looks a little cleaner and a little smarter.
She wears her fine clothes and a little of her perfume around town and enjoys looking and smelling exotic and tidy again.
When there’s any chance of anything going down, she will add her studded leather armour to the mix and forego the perfume.
She has her daggers on her at all times no matter what, either worn, ready for action, or hidden within her clothes.
At the mention of darts, Ash’s ears twitch and prick up. “I could give most people a run for their money throwing ‘arrows’...”.
”I don’t know about needing to sneak into a mine, unless we get a lead in that direction... But it couldn’t hurt ‘having the keys’, in case we need them later”.
“And if we lose, what have we lost? Nothing... We could always just go and play anyway, just for fun, one night!”. ((Is the darts venue near town?))
She seems just genuinely keen to play darts one day, just to play. The glint her eye says she knows she’s good and would want to win just for sport anyway.
"Darts sounds fun." Korrik remarks, twirling one of his between fingers. "Especially among big burly types who think it's all about how hard you can throw it."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Ben rolls his eyes at the two that have focused in on playing a game.
"Yes, absolutely. We'll make an evening of it, why not. It never hurts to get in with those pulling valuables out of the earth. You play darts and I can play some music. I know some dwarven drinking songs. I believe the silver mines are an hour beyond the haunted house, so it'd be an all night thing, so best to wait until after we deal with the Sea Ghost."
He pulls out the map they bought and finds the mines on it.
He also taps the ruins of the tower and the abbey island.
"I kind of like the sound of the Abbey Isle... sounds straight forward... maybe picking some off from the boat? Heck if we take the ship, we could just anchor off the island and put the ballista or whatever armaments the ship has to bear on the horde when they arrive?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
What with having everything an honest Thief needs, and a solid Criminal Contact, Ash probably would lean towards ‘research’ for the week. Especially if Ben is happy to do some carousing? (happy for cost of that to be split or taken from petty cash. It benefits us all).
I’m guessing that would make her pretty tight with Krag the gravedigger anyway (for what that’s worth).
As always, she would try a little Thieves’ Cant with Krag (and anyone she meets at the library or anywhere else). Usually something like ‘Are - you - one - of - us?’. A very common (and neutral / non-threatening) opener.
She will keep a look out, at the usual places for new or changed Thieves’ Cant messages. And she will alter her own so that they now say (in secret symbols): ‘Tabaxi’ alongside ‘specialist’ and now alongside ‘work?’. She also obliterates the ‘three daggers’ messages.
These are not just for Fidd, but anyone who might know The Cant or be part of The Trades, and see them. Anyone in town might respond or approach her directly, or indirectly.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
Back while still out on the trail, back into town, Ash would have replied to Ess with,, “That wasn’t a bad haul for a few days work, eh?... You never know what to expect when you’re told about the potential loot... ... I don’t think I can retire to the islands just yet, but now we definitely have some serious collateral behind us!”.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
((I think Korrik would see if Hanna could use a hand in the kitchen here (need a roll for that?), and do his carousing at the Empty Net. 9))
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
Ben will take the money from Hanna with a bow,
"My pleasure, it's nice having an appreciative audience."
He will give Ess a nod of thanks for the compliment.
He does his bardly duties and, the next morning, is understanding of the situation with Hanna. He gives her a wink before heading for some grub.
((Ya, we've grown closer over time Klein, but that isn't the type of RP I signed up for!))
To Ess he just shakes his head,
"We've had this conversation Ess, a gentleman doesn't discuss this sort of thing."
He then lifts his eyebrows twice to emphasize how it was a good night.
As Ben has made a 'contact' at the Line he will carouse over at the Goat while Kay works the Net. He wouldn't play at the Goat however, only doing performances at the Line.
Gold: 16
((Let me know how many performance checks you think are okay for playing at the Line. Ben wouldn't play there every night, and maybe only once during the week period. Can't let people get bored of him...
Ha! Looks like people are mostly buying him drinks!))
Ash, you do indeed get rather tight with Krag (added to NPC tab) during your week together. He shows you Captain Eliander's library (the captain of the town guard member of council), and the captain actually would've been very pleased to see that you have taken a week to work with Krag to help organize his library and help with the graveyard. "Wow, is there anything that you heroes don't do?! Thank you again, Ash, for your service to this town. We've no sight of the smuggler's ship so far since you've been gone, but to be honest I'm glad you are all back in town. I assume the others returned, yes?"
As for your conversations with Krag, he'd have most of those when you were helping at the cemetery. The town’s cemetery is well-kept, but many of its graves are little more than memorial stones laid for those who died at sea. Krag had no shortage of semi-interesting tales about notorious fish and monstrous pirates which took up most of the time with him along with the actual work you were doing with organizing the library and helping around the graveyard. Krag is non-responsive to your thieves cant. However, now that the downtime is complete, you earn your pay as well as get this info about the region from Krag (everyone can read the spoilers, I'm just using them for organization):
For the research downtime: you earn enough money to afford a modest lifestyle. 7gp for the week. You also learn the following:
These locations are on the 'Marshswamp Region' tab and I've added this newly acquired information to that tab as well.
So, Krag tells you about:
Abbey Isle: A local mariners’ guild in town has been trying to claim the small, strategically located island and build a lighthouse there. But so far, its representatives have not been able to land safely on the island — every attempt to come ashore has been met by a horde of undead. The guild posts a lucrative contract offer in nearby coastal communities, seeking adventurers willing to secure the island and its burned-out abbey.
Tower on the cliff (Tower of Zenopus): The wizard Zenopus once dwelled in this tower on the cliffs outside Marshswamp. He built his lair next to the remains of an ancient graveyard rumored to be haunted. One night, the tower was engulfed in a fiery green aura. A few brave folks from town investigated the tower and found it abandoned. The door at the base of the cellar stairs was covered with strange symbols and wrapped in silver chains. An explorer tried to open the door, but a jolt of lightning from the door’s runes nearly killed her. Shortly afterward, strange spirits and capering fey were seen atop the tower. After a few travelers went missing nearby, the town council asked an orcish galleon to bombard the structure with catapult fire until it was battered into rubble. He does not know what lies there today, he could only imagine though...
Lastly for Ash, feel free to ask Krag any questions as well that you might have about Marshswamp and perhaps the people you've already met, and he will answer to the best of his ability.
Krag = Ash's research contact
Ash, throughout the week, you also notice some subtle responses to your thieves cant messages. Nothing new from Fidd, but there's something written back to your messages. Specialist - Work - Yes - Info - Warehouses - Docks - Meet - Alone. You can decide if you would've went to the docks one night to meet the person and then I will give you more info.
Korrik, Hanna would've needed help in the kitchen at the inn for sure. You manage to get a few hours in each day, and I think at this point there's no need for a roll as this is strictly mundane line work which you've mastered at this point in your career. You'd earn 7gp for the week's work all put together.
As for your carousing, Korrik you spend a lot of time at the Empty Net (#8 on the overview map).
Partially supported by stilts driven into the harbor waters, this rickety tavern is a haven for smugglers, mercenaries, assassins and even pirates. The thing is, while the party was gone, word has gotten around of the heroes busting the smuggling ring out at the haunted mansion, and I'm not sure customers in this establishment would want to speak with Korrik given he's part of the group that has just busted a smuggling operation in town. That being said, Korrik drops 9gp during the week on drinks as he chats up the owner of the place. The owner, Kreb Shenker (added to NPC tab), will take gold from anyone. Even though most of his clientele are smugglers, he is intrigued at you being part of the bust and wonders why you are spending so much time in a place like this. After a few days, he'd start to think that there might in fact be more to you than meets the eye, and eventually tells you all about Gellan Primewater, the traditionalist who is on the council who you met a few days ago.
Kreb actually works with Gellan Primewater to screen prospective buyers and sellers for smuggled wares!!
"Was Gellan there when you told council about the bust?! BAHAHA! Would've loved to have seen his face."
Gellan has positioned his family to become the most prominent merchants in town, but he now faces an intractable problem. Gellan made his fortune through smuggling, his textile and lumber exports serving as a cover for his illegal activities. When Marshswamp was a sleepy backwater, he could operate with impunity. Now that Marshswamp has attracted attention from the outside world, he sees business growing more difficult and less profitable.
Over the years, Gellan has cultivated relationships with a number of contacts. His ships move illicit goods, including slaves. Gellan takes care to keep this side of his business quiet, since any hint of involvement with slave traders would mean the end of his days in Marshswamp, if not his life.
Gellan seeks to keep his smuggling cartel functioning with as little interference as possible. Having a seat on the council puts him in a perfect position to maintain his business while supporting all aspects of the traditionalists’ agenda. His popularity in the faction is second only to that of Eda Oweland (who you also met)
Because Gellan is the wealthiest man in town, he garners a great deal of popular support from the many feasts, entertainments, and other diversions he supports with expenditures and donations. He pretends to care little for the daily functions of the council, defaulting to throw his support behind Eda’s position. In truth, this deference is a ruse he uses to mask his efforts to shield his smuggling operation.
Kreb does not think that Gellan's operations have anything to do with the smuggling ring that you just busted. (there's a few different ones in a town like this!) Gellan is smarter than that. And Kreb would've heard about it by now if so. And Kreb would not have talked to you if so either.
Kreb Shenker = Korrik's 1st carousing contact
Ben, Ess winks back at you and its very obvious. lol
Ben, please roll 2 performance checks for the week's performances at the Snapping Line Inn.
As for Ben's carousing at the Wicker Goat (#3 on the overview map):
Bearing the dubious honor of being the oldest tavern in town, the Wicker Goat is owned by Lankus Kurrid (added to NPC tab), a retired officer who caters to the dwarven miners and town guard. The two-story building has sleeping quarters for rent on the upper floor, usually sufficient to accommodate the slow stream of travelers making their way through Marshswamp on the way to somewhere else.
You drop 4gp throughout the week, which isn't a lot. It's more your personality (big surprise) which attracts Lankus to you. He tells you a lot about the dwarven mining contingent in the town, and specifics on the mine.
Dwarven prospectors have toiled in this new mine for the past three years. Soldiers are stationed here for security alongside dwarf fighters from the Copperlocks clan. Travelers in need of shelter can rest on cots in the guard towers that surround the place, but only those with business related to the mine are allowed inside the gates without supervision. The mine is a broad shaft dug into a steep hillside near the shore. Stone walls encompass it, with two guard towers overlooking the main gate and three other towers spaced evenly around the perimeter. The inner area contains a small village with warehouses, workshops, and houses, all erected during the time when the excavation was beginning and enormous amounts of stone became available for building. The laborers also took the time to build a tavern, the Miner’s Respite, and spend their off hours there drinking, swapping tales, and gambling. The game of darts has become an obsession among the bored miners and soldiers, and anyone with real skill at the game has a chance of talking their way past the guard at the door to engage in a match.
He would also tell you all about Manistrad Copperlocks, who you've already met who is on the council.
The leader of the newly established mining operation in Marshswamp is an iron-willed dwarven woman named Manistrad. She runs the mining outfit from a small office near the edge of town. Manistrad is a competent leader, as well as a savvy miner with a knack for pulling off impossible jobs. She’s convinced that the veins of silver found in the cliffs near Marshswamp are indicative of more valuable stones deeper in the rock. She was once a fearsome warrior, and she’s not above delivering a few well-placed blows to ensure her orders are followed. Manistrad occupies an awkward place on the council. She was placed in her position by royal decree; the crown decided that if Marshswamp is to support a mining operation, the miners would need a political voice. A more diplomatic figure might have smoothed over the tension, but Manistrad has little patience and sees the rest of the council, save for Eliander, as rustic dullards.
Lankus Kurrid = Ben's 1st carousing contact
So... you can also ask your contacts any questions that your character would've asked throughout the week, and I will answer them accordingly.
Maybe I will pause there and allow that process to happen, and then once I answer the questions, I think the smugglers ship might be making an appearance sooner than later... given we will be on day 12 and they are to return around the 14th day.
After I respond to the questions you might ask your contacts, it will be 5:00 PM on DAY 12. Where will you all meet back up? The Snapping Line inn, perhaps?
"Good to know we weren't stepping on his toes... to be honest, it was a sloppily run ring. There were forking pamphlets about that house strewn about! Someone would have come and cleared them out eventually if it wasn't us stumbling into it. Probably a good thing for any others operating in the area, they were leaving folk dead just lying in the basement, enough people go missing and a bigger operation gets drummed up to sniff out any and all folks who got their fingers in the game. Way I figure it, we did Mr. G a favor without knowing. Plucked the low hanging fruit before someone came along and shook the tree, as it were."
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
Ben ponders the information Lankus gives him about the mine and getting in,
"Okay...but why? Why would I want to sneak in there? Honestly seems like a load of trouble for no reason?"
He also decides to avoid Manistrad.
Eagle's splendoring up he gives a season themed performance with illusions to match and then at the next performance he does a just a few lighter, comedic ballads.
Performance 1:13
Performance 2:16
((Ben would like to meet at Line, it's the home base for him.))
Also, he will swing by Hanna after the second performance,
"Perhaps something more romantic for you tonight as well? A bottle a wine while you listen?"
Seduction:25
Korrik, Kreb responds "Unbelievable. I always had doubts that the place was haunted. Don't believe in ghosts much. So, how much are they paying you? The council... how much are they paying you to bust the rest of them when the ship comes back to town? Yeah that's right, word kind of gets out around here. Don't worry though, from the sounds of it, these bunch of fools aren't swift and I'm sure they won't get wind of the bust. Anyway, yeah, how much they paying you?! It seems you play both sides of the law... I heard what was retrieved from the house and from what I've heard there was supposed to be a shitton of gold in there. Didn't hear of any gold getting returned. Weird." he smiles.
"Maybe when this is all over with, you should speak with G personally. Anyhow, I've got to go clean up. Come back anytime if you have questions. Oh and good luck with the bust. The dumb forks deserve it."
Ben, Lankus looks at you in a confused way (this being an inn which is mostly frequented by the dwarven miners and the town guard) "My friend. The mine is everything. Why the hell would you NOT want to go there and help! There's no need for sneaking, the... wait, sneaking in? Why would you..." he shakes his head and kind of makes a confused frown at the same time. He continues "ANYWHO, I'm telling you now. This whole operation is relatively new, and when it takes off, and I know it will, don't you think the dwarves will be paying big bucks to the folks who were in it from the beginning? Look, if you want to help, just talk to Manistrad. She's always got tons of mine-related work for those who are interested."
"Thanks for the business though, friend. It's much appreciated. If you have any other questions about the town, do come back and ask."
Ben, you crush both of the performances. You're really feeling this venue. And the patrons are loving you. They loved the illusions and they laughed their heads off at the ballads. You're becoming a bit of a fast celebrity in the town, especially given what you and the others are doing with the smugglers.
Night 1: The tips for the performance was 77sp and 91cp. Hanna also gives you 5gp.
Night 2: The tips for the performance was 64sp and 73cp. Hanna also gives you 5gp.
Ben, Hanna responds "Oh Ben. That was, amazing! You are quite the talent, and while I can't say it wouldn't be equally as amazing, maybe just not tonight. I've got people already asking me if there's something between us. Can't say I blame them, it's hard to keep my eyes off you, Ben!" she smiles, but declines the offer. So you've had one success, and one failure with her so far. If you continue a streak one way or the other, downstream effects might happen.
So the party will meet at the line on 5:00 PM on DAY 12. You all have been meeting here throughout the week, sharing what you've all learned and just eating and chatting and getting to know each other better, waiting for news of the ship coming back.
I'm going to wait for Ash to post her contact results stuff, and then will get the next post going. Seems the ship might be coming back a few days early...
To Lankus, with a laugh,
"You're the one that suggested one could get into the place by claiming they were dart players! Don't put it on me!"
Then,
"I'll keep what you said in mind about the mines and Manistrad. You make some solid points my friend. I'm not disappearing, I suspect I have more work around town. I'll see you soon."
To Hanna,
"Oh, I understand! I find my attention drawn to you whenever you are about." He gives her hand a kiss. "Another time then."
((Is Kay sharing all of his information? I think that is the most interesting to discuss now. Ben would share what he learned as well.))
((This convo is under the assumption that it's between Korrik and Kreb without any eavesdroppers. ;P))
"I don't recall the number off the top, one of my companions did the negotiating. Enough to make it worth our time! They're highly motivated to 'put an end to the smuggling', but those that play the game smart, a success should take the heat off. Kreb, you catch wind of anyone taking exception to our plans, maybe like they're looking 'teach the outsiders a lesson' sort of complaints, you let me know about it, eh, and I'll make it worth your time."
He slides a gold across the bar.
"Just to keep your ears open. Anyone comes looking to buy information about our plans, I'll double whatever they're offering if you deflect and let me know who and what they were asking about. I'd be paying you to do nothing, easiest coin to be had!"
"Yeah, we heard rumors about the place, it's what had us looking up there in the first place! "Untold riches!" and the like. Probably untold because whoever found it before we got there kept their mouths shut, or were silenced by that gang. We didn't find any shit ton of gold on those ding dongs we rolled out of there.", he shrugs.
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
Korrik would have been touching base with the others on a regular basis, I think we are all staying at The Line, so likely taking meals together, attending Ben's shows, etc. At some point when they converge in one of their rooms and make sure they aren't being overheard, he'll fill them in.
"Sanby and Willy were just the tip of the smuggling in this town, but the others keep a lower profile. Top of the food chain there is our friend Gellan. Seat on the council helps him avoid any complications. Pretty sure that the fellow I heard it from will be in trouble if Gellan finds out he told me, but I spun it that we weren't here to clean house, just took what was handed to us... which is pretty much what happened. Suggested we were doing the others a favor by clipping the sloppiest of operations, and that if they're smart enough they won't have a problem. Slipped the fellow a coin and a promise if he overhears any word coming our way."
"But... Gellan is in the slave trade. Don't know about you three, but that doesn't sit right with me. I don't think we can move against him now, he's got resources we can't muster, but just to put it in your heads, and maybe we see an opportunity or an angle down the road. I know you're thinking of putting down roots here Ess, so don't want to muddy the waters and leave you beached when they clear, so if we move on him, it'd either have to be to take him off the board entirely, or so he doesn't know who hit him and directs any payback elsewhere."
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
To Kay's wanting to interfere with Gellan, Ben gives a non-committal,
"Mmm."
He offers,
"If we want to sneak into a silver mine, we know darts are the angle. We just need to get a reason to want to do that. Or, alternatively, we can see if anything Manistrad offers is worth or time. I can make inquiries tomorrow."
He rubs the bridge of his nose and sighs theatrically,
"And we can check that ruin of a tower on the cliff Ash found more out about. Sounds like another haunted mansion situation, honestly."
Lankus responds to Ben "Yeah... to play darts, at the Miner's Respite! It's a tavern near the mine in the village. That's where they play the darts. Guards at the tavern just love it."
((ahh I wasn't able to finish my post! I will continue it ASAP today))
((Picking up from Ash’s downtime activities))
((From post #1225)) Ash would respond to Captain Eliander smiling, and say “ ‘Is there anything we don’t do?’... Well, we still have to earn a living when we’re not.. er.. ‘chasing ghosts’. The others, yes they’re ‘around’. Don’t worry, we’ll be ready when we’re needed... ... And I hope when we’re ‘done’, in the next few days, we’ll at least have proven ourselves ‘useful’... ‘reliable’.... ... I’m more than happy organising the library, but I suspect you’ll be able to think of ‘other ways’ we might help”.
After getting on good terms with Krag, she’ll ask him conversationally “What’s you’re take on Captain Eliander? And the other council members? We’re trying to help the town and don’t want to get in with the wrong crowd. Who deserves our help around town, in your opinion, and who should we avoid?”.
Ash will also share the work/quest leads with the rest of the party (Abbey Isle and the ruined wizard’s tower).
As for the Thieves’ Cant message she found (ie “Specialist - Work - Yes - Info - Warehouses - Docks - Meet - Alone” ), she would keep that to herself for now. And she would follow that up, the next available night, at the specified rendezvous-point, alone.
She would scope it out as best she could as she approached then take a broad walk around the area waiting for any contact and looking for any new ‘messages’ posted anywhere too.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
Ash is happy to meet at the Snapping Line Inn at 5:00 PM on DAY 12. Although she would meet the rest of the party there off-and-on during the week anyway too.
She would make a point of attending Ben’s performances and enjoy them immensely. She’s happy to be part of a crew again. More than happy to maintain a relatively high profile in town, given their good reputation, and be part of the cool crowd ((reflected cool from Ben mostly I think)).
Each day, she looks a little cleaner and a little smarter.
She wears her fine clothes and a little of her perfume around town and enjoys looking and smelling exotic and tidy again.
When there’s any chance of anything going down, she will add her studded leather armour to the mix and forego the perfume.
She has her daggers on her at all times no matter what, either worn, ready for action, or hidden within her clothes.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
At the mention of darts, Ash’s ears twitch and prick up. “I could give most people a run for their money throwing ‘arrows’...”.
”I don’t know about needing to sneak into a mine, unless we get a lead in that direction... But it couldn’t hurt ‘having the keys’, in case we need them later”.
“And if we lose, what have we lost? Nothing... We could always just go and play anyway, just for fun, one night!”. ((Is the darts venue near town?))
She seems just genuinely keen to play darts one day, just to play. The glint her eye says she knows she’s good and would want to win just for sport anyway.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
"Darts sounds fun." Korrik remarks, twirling one of his between fingers. "Especially among big burly types who think it's all about how hard you can throw it."
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
Ben rolls his eyes at the two that have focused in on playing a game.
"Yes, absolutely. We'll make an evening of it, why not. It never hurts to get in with those pulling valuables out of the earth. You play darts and I can play some music. I know some dwarven drinking songs. I believe the silver mines are an hour beyond the haunted house, so it'd be an all night thing, so best to wait until after we deal with the Sea Ghost."
He pulls out the map they bought and finds the mines on it.
He also taps the ruins of the tower and the abbey island.
"Both look to be at least an hour from town."
"I kind of like the sound of the Abbey Isle... sounds straight forward... maybe picking some off from the boat? Heck if we take the ship, we could just anchor off the island and put the ballista or whatever armaments the ship has to bear on the horde when they arrive?"
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
"That is a good idea, probably will need a crew for that though. If they let us keep the ship."