"Very good. heh heh" Merrick replies with a chuckle.
"Yes, yes, very good indeed. It would be beneficial for me if Ladoran was somehow, err, checkmated. Of course, I am referring to you bringing his more questionable activities to the attention of the Watch and nothing else." the Goblin continues with a slight wink.
"I will tell you what I know and in return, you can assist the Watch in arresting a dangerous criminal." Merrick says and takes a drink of his wine.
"Ladoran is a very slippery character. For one thing, I am convinced that he is either an illusionist, or a shapeshifter. I won't go into details as to why I think that, but I will let you know that there were a group of partisans such as yourselves here just a few days ago whom I had one of my associates lead to the home of Ladoran. My associate observed them entering Ladoran's abode, but they never came out. He also thought he heard the sound of thunder which may or may not have come from the abode. It was not raining that day, so I suspect that the sounds he heard were that of Ladoran killing said partisans, possibly with powerful magical or alchemical means."
"Normally, I suspect that it would be very difficult to get into Ladoran's house without an invitation. From the rumors that I have heard recently, that would especially be true today. The rumors appear to point to some plan of Ladoran's coming to fruition this evening. However, Ladoran is an arrogant and even careless man. Some damage occurred in his home that day, and yesterday, he started having goblin workers repair it. They appear to be carrying in and using an extremely large supply of stone for repairs, which in and of itself sounds unusual. I cannot imagine the amount of damage that was done inside his home based on how much stone and other materials are being delivered. However with workmen entering the place constantly, it seems like the way in at the moment is unlocked. Not that I am suggesting that you illegally enter his abode, of course. I am merely pointing out that if you were to observe illegal activities inside his home from the street when a goblin worker opens the door, it would be your obligation to report said activity to the Watch."
"Another thing that I think you should know. Ladoran has recently been buying large quantities of arcane components, decreasing the supply and hence, making it more difficult for honest businessmen such as myself to acquire such goods. I have to wonder why he is doing that. Is he merely trying to drive up the prices of those components and corner the market, or is he planning something else?" Merrick queries.
"As for assisting you directly, that would not be a wise idea. For one thing, Ladoran's agents have most likely been watching me for some time now, so they will know if you show up at his house with my men that I have directly aided you. If the Watch does not arrest Ladoran, then he will have cause to retailiate against me. Information is one thing, but committing resources to an endeavor is another. Secondly, you have already beaten up my bodyguards somewhat. I do not have an infinite supply of men, so if you fail in your endeavors, I will need all of my men nearby, just in case Ladoran succeeds in his goals."
"I would, however, suggest that you continue on your business. Many of the patrons of this tavern know who is in charge here. You were most fortunate that you did not start a fight while I was in the room. If you would have done so, it is very likely that not just my men would have come to my defense. You see, I suspect that this community comradery is the reason that Ladoran has never directly confronted me. My men are one thing, but some of the patrons of this establishment are another. Your luck is holding. I suggest that you and your men leave while that is still the case. So unless you have any other quick questions, I think that I have assisted you as much as I am willing." Merrick states as he drains the rest of his glass.
