The Westgate Campaign Chronicles - serial

[Carlo-One]

"Since you arrived last, I have the privilege of asking you to start off the evening's tales. I am curious as to what happened on that island you scouted, not to mention how you managed to upset a dragon into attacking the ship on the way back." His lips turned into a merry grin while his eyes twinkled, looking slightly devilish.

Rahnee lowered herself gracefully to sit by the fire, drawing her cloak closer across the bow she laid in her lap to keep the string dry. She smiled serenely at the mercenary captain and blinked melting snow from her thick eyelashes.

"Nothing really to tell. Twas a dreary little island with little to recommend it, well, unless you like vines that leap out at you at importune times and cause you to screech like an owl when their little creeper claws sink into ... how shall I say it…delicate parts of your anatomy?" She winks. "Although I will say that finding that dragon skeleton in the treeline was enough to take ME aback, as well as certainly grateful that a pile of bones was all that it was! As for the dragon who attacked our ship, who knows what thoughts go through a dragon's mind. I am sure they do not think as WE do! Tymora blessed us that day with good fortune that the blasted creature was too exhausted to continue its attack!"

She chuckled. "Your turn, sir. How long have you been with the Guild?"

Aerikoth stood by the fire with his arms folded within the sleeves of his robe. He quietly observed Losifan and the other mercenaries while Rahnee spoke. He seemed oblivious to the snow falling and the cold weather and his neutral expression gave no hint to his thoughts or interest in the party's current whereabouts.

Losifan chuckled at Rahnee's description of their island adventure. "Surely you could spin a taller tale than that, milady? But perhaps that is simply an indication of your youth." Losifan gave her a wink as he finished.

"Since you asked, I have been with the guild for nigh seven years now, joining it when I - no doubt - was as young as the fair lady." Losifan gave Rahnee a courtly bow, half- mocking, half-serious. "I fear my aptitude lies in command of men in the field, rather than command of ledgers and politics, so I am something of a disappointment to the family." Losifan's grin indicated that he did not seem to be disappointed in the least, for his part.

"Perhaps I could spin a better tale, good sir, however, I am but a frail delicately-raised maiden, and must leave the boisterous tales of daring do to my brothers who are proud to declaim on their prowess at arms . . . and other things." Rahnee laughed merrily at Losifan's wry expression. "Or perhaps I now tell a tall tale, and you can see why I am not cut out for the stage!"

"And how are your brothers in Waterdeep, my oh-so-modest lady? You travel far from home, even for one of your clan. I do hope that some family disagreement has not led you to the Dragon Coast, although I would certainly sympathize if that were the case." Losifan spared a glance for the silent Aerikoth, casually noting his presence before returning his attention to Rahnee.

Brok-Tul ambled over, happy to be out of his chafing platemail though it was made for just his size, of course. "Heya, anyone need a chant to heat yer greaves? It's colder than a frost-pixie's stick." He caught the last phrase the Guildsman had mentioned. "Yeah, I hope I'm not gonna be her family's next disagreement. But if it comes to that, we'll line her brothers up an' I'll go three outta five."

He plunked down next to Rahnee' and negotiated one of her boots into his lap, where he started to massage her insole. "I hear there's bandits down this way. Seen any 'round here? Maybe this time we meet 'em, we'll get to keep their ship." His grin seemed to indicate an inside joke, but his eyes were unblinking...as if waiting for something to drop.

 

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee smiled as Brok plunked himself down beside her. She answered Losifan’s question: "Oh, no, no family disagreement! Actually . . . " - she leaned forward as if to impart something confidential - ". . . I think they sent me to deliver horses in hopes of persuading me to stay at home and be the properly dutiful daughter." She chuckled and then mournfully sighed. "Alas, it did not work. I have always been sort of the black sheep of the family. Bah! Who wants to sit in burdensome dresses, daintily doing needlework? I ask you, sir! Would you be content doing that when there is such a gloriously beautiful world out and about? Actually, I have been trying to persuade my brothers that Clan Roaringhorn should extend its trade routes into Westgate on a regular basis. As a member of one of Westgate's leading houses, what do you think of such an idea? After all, tis said that Tymora favors the bold!"

Losifan appeared amused by Brok-Tul and Rahnee's exchange, but was only half-joking when he began speaking again. "Mercantile competition is a serious thing in Westgate, serious even for Waterdhavian nobility. Additional trade opportunities are always welcome, since everyone appreciates unique and quality goods - such as Roaringhorn horses, for example! I have observed that additional competitors are not liked by anyone, however."

The bearded noble turned to Brok-Tul. "No bandits seen this trip, at least. They rarely attack bands of well-armed travelers, although a small group might seem vulnerable. But your comments intrigue me sir, what could you possibly do that would upset the fair lady's brethren at such a great distance? It seems at least she does not object to it."

Rahnee answered first. "Master Urdo, if you know anything about my brothers, then you know that it takes absolutely nothing to persuade them that a good brawl is in order! Their happiest moments are drinking, brawling, wenching, fighting, brawling, drinking. . . did I mention drinking and brawling?" She grimaced slightly and then chuckled. "Now if my Lord Brothers could only figure out a way to export brawling, Clan Roaringhorn would have the market cornered!"

Brok-Tul's own rueful chuckle grumbled out, "Yeah, I hear that it's prob'ly gonna be some kinda initiation to be had in the Roaringhorn family. Approve of me or not, I'm sure when we meet I'll have ta either cure some hangovers, sew some arms back on with Helm's blessings, or both." Brok seemed thoughtful for a moment, switching to Rahnee's other foot. "Could ya do us a favor, Lord Urdo? We just packed basic rations an' took some tealeaves. If ya have anythin' more eatable than iron rations, we'll set up a teapot of Holy Tea ta chase evil spirits off once we get a hot kettle boilin' here."

Losifan still appeared a little puzzled by Brok-Tul and Rahnee's allusions to what would happen when Brok-Tul met her family, but left it aside. (Not surprising that the Westgate noble did not assume that a half-orc would be marrying into the Roaringhorn family. Guess who would be coming to dinner in Waterdeep? --R) "Some tea would be welcome. I'll have one of my men throw a pair of rabbits on the fire as an evening snack." He motioned to the mercenary standing on the opposite side of the fire, who disappeared briefly into a tent and returned with a brace of rabbits, placing them on a spit over the fire. He continued, "I don't suppose you were in Westgate when the announcement was made about the candidates for Croamarkh? I'd be interested to hear who has put themselves forward." As only blank stares answered Losifan, he dropped the subject and joined the others in a welcome late-night meal, retiring soon afterwards.

 

[Carlo-One]

A New City

At dawn on Hammer 2, Veran rose as was his custom and went off to meditate. The others awoke shortly afterward and joined Losifan in contributing food for breakfast. It took several tries to get Janatha up from her slumber, but once awake she was eagerly looking forward to reaching Teziir that day. Losifan mentioned that it was a holiday there, so the party would likely find little open for business. When asked by Brok-Tul about it, Janatha said that the holiday was supposedly in honor of an ancient paladin, whose name (Trigonareth? Trigonarith?) Janatha couldn't quite remember. Legends said that the paladin and his companions had defeated a vampire lord in the Dragon Coast. The paladin had later settled in the area where Teziir was today. The leader of the paladins had been Gen Soleilon, who Janatha thought had gone on to the be the first king of Westgate. Losifan interjected that the first human king of Westgate was actually Saldrinar of the Seven Spells, but that Gen Soleilon did defeat a vampire lord to claim the throne around 1,500 years ago. (It is wise to remember and honor legends of the past, especially ones that are relevant today. --C)

After some further discussion and a cordial exchange of farewells, the companions broke camp and moved on, Rahnee calling out to Veran to catch up when ready. Four hours of travel brought them to the eastern outskirts of Teziir, where they rested for a short while before Veran arrived. The companions took Janatha up on her offer to give them a tour of the city before they went to her father's house.

As they walked north past the first line of buildings, Janatha pointed out that the city did not have any walls, which had in the past been a point of contention on the ruling Merchant Council. In the Council District, Janatha walked them past the temples of Azuth, Chauntea, Torm, Tyr, and Helm, the last being the biggest in the city. Rahnee asked if there was a temple to Tymora, which Janatha confirmed, apologizing for not having gone by it earlier; Rahnee said she was just curious. Janatha mentioned that the Council encouraged the establishment of temples. Janatha also pointed out the Watch Station, commenting that there was one in most districts, and the wizard's tower, which she knew little about. Jokull took the opportunity to ask Janatha if she had heard of a man called Seriawan. She said, after thinking briefly, that she had not, but perhaps her father would know of him.

Janatha led them north through the Seaside District, which she said had little worth seeing, although she did point out that the coastline was very rocky to the east, commenting that was why the city docks were on the western side of the peninsula. The next area - The Point - according to Janatha was not very nice district, with just a flophouse and a tavern for sailors, but she liked it because it had a great view of the sea. The group agreed with her, pausing for a while by the lighthouse on the northern point, where a park with some benches had been set up. Several seagulls kept them company as they gazed out into the Dragonmere.

The group then walked south along the coast, passing through the Docks District, which appeared relatively busy. Janatha pointed out the Captain's Rest, a tavern where she had been told only sea captains were allowed in. She then led them through the Bayside District and into Traders District, where her father's house was located. Soon, they were outside a rich-seeming home, where Janatha - after pausing to catch her breath - knocked eagerly on the door and announced herself. She was recognized and let in by a servant, followed by the rest of the party.

 

[Carlo-One]

The house they entered appeared both comfortable and rich. The servant departed to fetch Janatha's father, returning shortly and announcing “Queron Ulanthar, Council Member.” With a smile, Queron greeted Janatha and told her it was a pleasant surprise to have her home. A brief introduction of her adventurer "escorts" was then made, Queron thanking them for keeping Janatha safe and complimenting them on having Jandrico Swift's trust.

Queron had his servant pour drinks for the group and they discussed Jandrico and life at the Gatereach, including the unfortunate previous tenant of the Gatereach guesthouse, who - depending on the story - had apparently been eaten by a bear, a lion, or a panther. Queron also took the time to talk with each member of the group individually, as introduced by Rahnee, whose family name Queron recognized. While talking with Aerikoth, Queron mentioned that the local master wizard was Cydaran and had a tower in the Council District, should Aerikoth wish to introduce himself. Janatha apparently was not used to strong drink and was looking a little woozy by the time Rahnee deftly took away her goblet. Queron politely observed that Janatha appeared to need some rest. Before accompanying her upstairs, he invited the group to dine with him that evening, an offer that was immediately accepted.

The adventurers spent the afternoon resting from their long journey. Rahnee, still exhausted from the trip, did not feel up to a fancy dinner and Brok-Tul, not surprisingly, preferred to attend to her than be with the others, offering his and Rahnee’s apologies. Ever the gracious host, Queron had some food sent up to their room, ensuring they were taken care of well.

Shortly before dinner, Aerikoth, Jokull and Veran gathered in the foyer, taking advantage of Queron’s well-stocked bar and examining with interest some of the books and other items in the room. Queron arrived with Janatha on his arm and, at her suggestion, gave his guests a tour of the ground floor, pointing out various objects and relating their stories.

The object of greatest interest to the adventurers was a massive, seemingly perfect amethyst crystal in the shape of a sphere. Queron invited Aerikoth to examine it, as the Councilman understood that sometimes gems could be used for scrying or other magical purposes. In response to a question from Aerikoth about its origin, Queron told the others he had acquired it from a ship captain who had a reputation for both being honest and for traveling further than his fellows. The gem, for which Queron had paid a small fortune over ten years ago, was rumored to have come from a dragon’s hoard. Queron’s best guess was that it had come from the Moonsea region, although he did not know for certain.

Shortly afterwards, dinner was served and the group had a civilized conversation over the fine wine, fresh greens and fish that was served. Queron was curious about the companions’ stories and talk revolved around each of their adventures and histories. Queron also was clearly savvy about goings-on in Westgate, asking about the upcoming elections and referring to other current events. Jokull took the opportunity to raise the topic of Seriawan of Teziir and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his purchase of the Hidden House in Westgate. Although he had not heard of Seriawan, Queron agreed to direct his agents to ask about him in Teziir. After an after-dinner drink, the group retired for the night.

(Adventurers' tales are normally filled with blood, intrigue, betrayal, torment, doubt and angst. Reading about such a civilized dinner with one of the leading merchants of Teziir is a welcome break from these stresses of life. It also makes me wish the Order's refectory was of higher quality. --R)

 

[Carlo-One]

The morning of Hammer 3, the adventurers gathered in the house foyer for breakfast, with the exception of Aerikoth, who chose to remain in his room to study. Queron’s servant Bustable informed the group that Queron and Janatha had already departed in order to breakfast with a friend of the family. While the companions were taking advantage of Queron’s table, Bustable told them about Fogerty’s, the general merchant store in Teziir, and the Hammer and Anvil, the city’s premier supplier of martial equipment; both were located nearby in the Traders District. After finishing their meal, they decided to see what the stores had to offer before going to the Temple of Helm.

Fogerty’s offered a few items they needed and the clerk gave Rahnee directions to the Temple of Helm in the Council District. At the Hammer and Anvil, the dwarven proprietor, Goirin Goldstriker, proudly showed off his selection of arms and armor, much of which came from Clan Ironhelm smiths. Rahnee asked the dwarf if he knew anyone in the city who could enchant weapons. Goirin said the only wizard he knew of in the city was Cydaran, who called himself a master wizard and had a tower in the Council District. Goirin mentioned that he was considered snobbish, however, and did not know if he did such things as enchant weapons. After looking at the selection, Brok-Tul was particularly taken with a large maul and took Goirin up on an offer to test it on an armor stand. Three strokes of the hammer later, the armor stand was in ruins and a smiling Goirin gladly accepted payment from Brok-Tul for both the weapon and his destroyed furniture, wishing the group well as they left the store.

On the way to the temple, Brok-Tul’s new maul attracted somewhat shocked expressions from passers-by, as the half-orc had not yet figured out a way to store it with the rest of his equipment. Once inside the Temple of Helm, however, the guards respectfully made Brok-Tul take the time to lash it up rather than carry it openly. The companions then made their way down the long hall to the altar, which was an impressive suit of standing plate armor. Brok-Tul informed the priests on duty that he had come with a message from High Cleric Carlin for Thyxlys Jon, the head of the temple. The priests, although at first somewhat surprised at Brok-Tul’s appearance, welcomed Brok-Tul as a brother in Helm and one of them went to inform Thyxlys Jon of his arrival. Meanwhile, the other priest showed Brok-Tul and his companions what temple services were available for purchase.

After a short period of time, the priest returned and escorted the party upstairs to see the Grand Cleric. Thyxlys Jon welcomed them all and Brok-Tul introduced his companions. After reading the letter of introduction from Carlin, Thyxlys Jon asked Brok-Tul to clarify what sort of aid was needed. Brok-Tul explained, with the help of commentary from Veran regarding his prophecy, the group’s efforts to combat Ashnakzeroth. Although the Grand Cleric could not offer any additional information on the ancient lich himself, he informed the group that a powerful diviner in Teziir could possibly help. Based on information he had received from a Helm acolyte who had consulted the wizard in the past, Thyxlys Jon said that the diviner preferred to remain incognito. On the fifth day of each month, he explained, an agent of the wizard spends the night at the Sailor's Fancy, in the Docks district. If this agent overhears a worthy seeker, that person is then contacted anonymously. The Grand Cleric did not know why the diviner was so secretive, commenting that the ways of wizards were not always understandable.

Thyxlys Jon, after querying Brok-Tul in a disapproving tone about the untraditional hand- shaped altar in Turnton’s temple to Helm, asked the half-orc cleric to remain for a moment to discuss the matter while the others were escorted on their way. A few minutes later, Brok-Tul rejoined his companions and they walked toward the exit, Rahnee and Jokull having their own comments to make about tradition and its value (or lack thereof). (Outsiders normally do not understand the importance of such outward manifestations of a deity's symbol. To the initiated, it is often a matter of identity and rightness, which can brook little or no deviation. --C)

After returning to Queron’s for lunch, an impatient Rahnee and Jokull decided to spend time in the city looking for possible leads on Seriawan, while Brok-Tul and Veran filled Aerikoth in on the latest developments. Bustable informed them that Queron and Janatha planned to return in the evening and had invited the group to dine with them, an offer that was immediately accepted.

 

[Carlo-One]

Following some discussion, Aerikoth, Brok-Tul and Veran decided to head into the city themselves and see what could be usefully accomplished. Outside the local Watch Station, Brok-Tul flagged down a helpful local and asked for directions. The citizen, a man by the name of Sevan, told them about the layout of the city and mentioned that the Road Patrol was hiring mercenaries, if they were looking for work; Road Patrol headquarters could be found to the west of Fogerty’s. Brok-Tul introduced himself and his companions and thanked the man for his help.

The three made their way to the building housing the Road Patrol. Brok-Tul inquired about the state of the roads and the kinds of contracts on offer, mentioning that he had done work for the Westgate Mercenaries Guild. He was told by a clerk that the roads were more or less normal, meaning still dangerous, and that the normal wage was five gold a day, one gold of which was taken by the Road Patrol as its contracting fee; any necessary healing expenses incurred along the way were paid by the customer directly. Brok-Tul commented in a friendly manner that it might be tempting if he weren’t already in the middle of other work, and the three took their leave. (Another surprisingly diplomatic effort by the half-orc, who might have been expected to say something crass about the pittance on offer. Clearly the Road Patrol is interested in only the lowest level of mercenary guards. --R)

Next, they stopped in at the nearby Hammer and Anvil, to follow up on what the dwarf Goirin Goldstriker had told them earlier about possibly getting weapons enchanted. Goirin, if anything, was even more scornful of the idea of dealing with the “master wizard of Teziir” Cydaran, commenting that the wizard only dealt with the high-born. Aerikoth asked some intelligent, probing questions about Cydaran, which Goirin answered as best he could, also providing directions to the wizard’s tower in the Council District. Brok-Tul also confirmed with Goirin that the Clan Ironhelm dwarves he dealt with could probably use any unusual metals he ran across to make special weapons and equipment.

The three departed the store and made their way east to the Council District, passing by a number of temples before they reached Cydaran’s tower. As no one answered their hail, they surmised that an appointment would likely be needed to get inside the tower. Since it was by then mid-afternoon, they decided to return to Queron’s and await the results of Rahnee and Jokull’s excursion.

Once the five were together again in the evening, they compared notes. Rahnee had acquired a stunning new outfit, part of her “cover” for asking local merchants about Seriawan. All she was able to discover was that few knew him, he was low caste, and had paid off his debts at Fogerty’s about a tenday ago. Veran and Brok-Tul both commented on the implications of this, namely that Seriawan was likely acting as a front for someone else. (Not a surprise, but it seems the party now has at least circumstantial confirmation of this fact. Questions remain as to the motives and identity of the one pulling Seriawan's strings. --C)

 

[Carlo-One]

Bustable appeared and announced that dinner was served, just before Queron entered the foyer, accompanied by Janatha in an elegantly attractive gown. As Brok-Tul observed, the girl was hardly recognizable as the same person who had worked in the Gatereach Inn’s kitchen. Blushing at the adventurer’s compliments, she seated herself next to her father at the dinner table, which was tastefully set.

As the meal progressed, being a savory dish of rosemary chicken and a dry white wine from Arabel, the companions enjoyed a pleasant conversation with Queron. He informed them that news of the nominations for Croamarkh had finally reached Teziir. Three candidates had put themselves forward to lead Westgate: Lord Scirkas Urdo, which surprised no one; Lord Kargerth Cormaeril, whom he had a low opinion of; and an unexpected entrant, Audara Imryth, a cleric of Mystra. Aerikoth had once visited her potion shop, but otherwise none of them had any previous contact with her. Queron speculated, with Rahnee’s agreement, that she must be backed by higher powers. Queron then took the opportunity to explain Teziir’s political system to his guests, which was based on an eleven-member Merchant Council. (This must have been a reference to the original number, as subsequently the membership shrank significantly. Consolidation of power, whether by intent or happenstance, is often a feature of such governing arrangements. --R)

At Queron’s request, Brok-Tul and Rahnee shared their stories with the appreciative merchant, as their companions had done at the previous night’s dinner. Queron then informed the group of what his agents had turned up on Seriawan. Seriawan was described as a small-time merchant seeking to make easy money, not necessarily on the right side of the law. He had dropped out of sight approximately a tenday ago, paying off his rooming house debt and departing without saying a word. Queron was told that this was unusual, Seriawan normally being an oily, obsequious man looking to impress others with a false sense of his own importance. Apparently he had shared his plans with no one this time. Since he may have simply moved within the city, Queron asked his agents to see if they could find him.

Brok-Tul, requesting Queron to keep the information secret, shared additional background on the Night Masks and the group’s struggles with the undead around Westgate, as well as mentioning that the place Seriawan had purchased had previously housed a temple to Leira, the dead goddess of illusion. In response to a question from Rahnee, Queron said that he thought a venture involving the ruined temple sounded bad from a business perspective, given the poor condition of the building and the inflated price, based on Aerikoth’s previous description of the place.

After dinner, Jokull excused himself and went upstairs while the others had a drink together. Janatha was surprised to hear from Rahnee that none of her brothers had yet married, which made her look thoughtful. After some good-natured banter about Rahnee’s experiences growing up with twelve unruly siblings, the companions decided to call it a night.

 

[Carlo-One]

A Call for Help

Late the following morning of Hammer 4, in response to frantic rapping at the front door of Queron Ulanthar's, the servant Bustable opened it to reveal a wounded Road Patrol mercenary, who stumbled through the entrance. As the mercenary caught his breath, a concerned-looking Rahnee strolled in behind him, joining Brok-Tul, Aerikoth, Jokull and Queron in the foyer. Following expressions of concern from the companions and a quick healing prayer from Brok-Tul, the mercenary, whose name was Yilan, told them that the morning caravan from Westgate had been attacked.

Yilan, who was one of the caravan guards, had been informed that no Road Patrol members were available to attempt a rescue, but that an adventuring company was quartered at Queron’s that might be of assistance. In response to the adventurers’ questions, the mercenary explained that a large group of bandits had ambushed the caravan and were beaten off, but they had been able to seize the last wagon and its occupant, a lady described as wearing dark leathers and a haughty expression. Yilan said that the ambush had occurred an hour east of the city, the bandits having withdrawn to the south after the fight.

Rahnee immediately turned to Queron and volunteered the company’s aid to the Teziir Council, which was gratefully accepted with the additional promise of an ample reward from the council’s coffers. Queron said he would inform Veran of what had occurred when the monk returned from his errands in the city. The adventurers immediately gathered up their gear and departed the house, following Yilan as he guided them out of the city and into the countryside south of Trader’s Road.

The trail left by the bandits, who were estimated to number at least a dozen, was easily followed by the group for the next two hours. Moving around a stand of trees, Yilan was suddenly spotted by two outlying bandit sentries who pursued him and managed to put an arrow in his side before the party came to his rescue and dispatched them. Refusing Brok-Tul’s offer of healing magic, the mercenary told the half-orc cleric to save it for the coming battle and seated himself near some trees.

 

[Carlo-One]

At Aerikoth’s offer, Rahnee was enchanted with a spell of invisibility to allow her to more securely scout the bandit camp. Jokull told her that the next group of sentries would probably be shouting distance away from the first two they had stumbled on; luckily, the dead ones had not had time to raise an alarm. Rahnee returned shortly afterwards, mischievously taking the opportunity to tweak an unsuspecting Brok-Tul before turning visible to report her results. The next group of sentries were four archers, according to Rahnee, with perhaps seven more heavily-armed warriors around a campfire further south; she had seen no sign of the captive woman. Jokull expressed his doubts as to their ability to lure the bandits into battle, prompting Aerikoth to say he would conjure a fireball to attack the nearest sentries, likely attracting the others to the fight.

The battle went according to plan (For once! --R), as Aerikoth’s spell had the desired effect of drawing the rest of the bandit gang into battle. The fighting was fierce but quick, as the companions – with the addition of Aerikoth’s summoned dire wolf – made quick work of most of their opponents, then put an end to the battle by surrounding and cutting down the bandit chief and a cleric. While further exploring the area, Brok-Tul entered a small forest clearing, setting off a trap in the process, and found a tent with a lone bandit guard. The others soon joined the half-orc priest in confronting the man, who at Brok-Tul’s approach had dragged his captive partially out of the tent and had placed his sword at her throat.

After a tense exchange of words, the bandit, whose name was Zod, accepted Jokull’s word of honor that they would spare his life. Jokull bound Zod’s arms with some rope, but on Brok-Tul’s advice left his legs free for walking. After the captive was freed of her bonds, she introduced herself as Marise and asked who her rescuers were. Rahnee named them as Helm’s Shadows and individual introductions were also made.

Inside the tent was a chest with the bandit’s loot. Brok-Tul saw to the removal of its trap and unlocked it, rubbing healing salve on his hands afterwards. Marise claimed several scrolls, a gold pouch, and several gems as hers, while Rahnee shared out the remainder. Veran arrived at this point, explaining that he had been able to follow the group’s trail after returning to Queron’s house. As they prepared to leave the bandit camp, Marise asked Brok-Tul to remove his helm. The woman appeared momentarily shocked at the sight of his half-orcish face once he complied with her wish.

 

[Carlo-One]

As they walked north, the group spread out in a long line and the bandit captive Zod saw his chance to make a dash for the forest to his west. Although Rahnee spotted him and pursued, he sprinted madly and dashed into the trees while Rahnee angrily fired a pair of arrows after his retreating form. Rahnee returned to where the rest of the group had paused, close to where their guide Yilan was resting north of the camp, to report Zod’s escape. Marise coolly stated she would eventually track him down and kill him as punishment for what he had done to her. The others did not share her bloodthirstiness and Jokull commented that Zod would not likely last a week on his own, which appeared to somewhat mollify Marise. Aerikoth, having largely ignored the rest of the conversation while he examined the area, commented that the dead cleric with the bandits could be identified by his holy symbol as a worshiper of Mask. Veran found this unsurprising, given that their opponents had, after all, been thieves.

The group traveled uneventfully back to the outskirts of Teziir, where the Road Patrol mercenary Yilan excused himself and headed back to his headquarters, thanking the party again for their help. Marise, giving the impression she no longer enjoyed the others’ company, headed into the city alone, making it clear she wanted no further assistance. Jokull expressed his distrust of the woman, prompting Brok-Tul to comment that he never trusted Westgate nobles.

After making their way to Road Patrol headquarters to check in, the group returned to Queron Ulanthar’s house to report their success. The Council member was elated to hear of their defeat of the gang and hoped that bandit attacks on Trader’s Road would decrease as a result. Queron produced a large purse of gold and handed it to Rahnee to share amongst the group, as a reward from the Council. Queron also mentioned that one of his agents had found a lead on Seriawan and might have more information on him by the next morning. This led Aerikoth to question why finding Seriawan was so important. Rahnee and Brok-Tul in response vigorously asserted their interest in tracking down the purchaser of the Hidden House in Westgate, where Brok-Tul had wished to set up a shrine to Helm. After the at times acrimonious discussion wound down and the remaining spoils from the bandit camp were shared out, the companions retired for the night.