In reply to Vynthear Klayde (msg # 5):

Stahl looks up at the figure, then down at Prinz. The dog, who had been at ease beside the chair, patiently waiting for his share of food, is on his feet wagging his tail and sniffing the stranger. This seems to put the dwarf at ease, and introduces himself and joins the fellow.

"I take it you're a spellcaster. No one else as apparently underprepared would be interested in setting outside these walls, unless they were a damn fool. And that's why I don't reckon we'll find anything but keepsakes of their lost people. But if that means going through more kobolds, Prinz and I are up for it. Eh, boy?" Prinz voices his agreement.

You notice a man with a crooked back, a wisp of white hair, and cheeks made rosy with age.
He sits down and belts out, upon hearing and sensing the mood.
“I tell ye all - Something’s changed in the air. Somewhere, a door has opened . . . and it’s dark behind that door! At least, that’s the dream I had , and I still feel unsettled by it. I don’t know why everyone else is acting so strangely.”
A voice challenges the notion.
"You mean the lord himself and the regulars are hiding food from us, that is what it is! We are starving here, no intake of food and what we have is kept from us!"

In the far end of the inn, sits an elf - Gaunt-faced with chocolate-brown hair tied back in a long pony-tail down to her waist. He appears stern, bitter and distant, and drinks a glass of wine alone, eyeing the room and the window shiftingly.

The proprietor eyes you and smiles.
Salvana, the owner is wellknown; she has a round face, rosy cheeks, and a maternal smile. She keeps her hair tied back in a scarf, but wisps of black poke out here and there.
“Would you care for a cup of soup? Or a loaf of bread? Or perhaps a slice of mutton? There’s not nearly enough skin on those bones of yours. You’ll be looking like Eilian if you’re not careful.”, she states towards Vynthear with a sincere smile. Eilian, the man with the crooked back laughs back at her comment.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:08, Thu 15 June 2017.

In reply to Storyteller (msg # 7):

"Some meat, yes, thanks. And some scraps for my animal, or a bone, if you have one. It pains me to say I can't pay at the moment, but I can give you this shield to hang as a trophy and warning, and I'll help clear the road for food shipments, if that's what you need. Or I can hunt, though I'm more of a spelunker, and the kind of game you can bag in caves isn't... to everyone's taste.

"Don't you have hunting parties? Or have the kobolds discouraged those, too? You, elf, surely you can string a bow and bring down some meat for your folk here."

The elf barely eyes Stahl, but Eilian voices in.
"Aye, used to. Rabbits, dear, even a rare bear - healthy fishing even. Now a day, after loosing a few hunters to many, due to the roaming threat, not so much come in, and the trade wagons are assaulted, looted and burned. And what do they do here? Cower - nothing at all. Someone needs to figure out where the villagers went, and more so, why the sudden uproar in brigands have arrived. Didn't use to be like this...I remember back in '72.."

He is stopped in his track by the proprietor whom drags a finger to her mouth and points to a plate of food. He smiles and grabs it with glee.
An elderly man enter, head deep in a thick leatherbound tome. He sits down, without looking, as if he has had the same table for years, and can recall the steps to his chair in his sleep.
He is poised and refined, but of age, having passed the 40 year mark.

"I've heard enough. If it's due to the kobolds, then in Waukeen's name, I'll clear this area, or protect your wagons, until this place is back on its feet, and self-sufficient.

"But scaring the wits out of kobolds can't solve every problem, much as I wish it could. If this town can't - or won't - protect itself, then it's just asking to be picked on. Serve your leaders faithfully, and do your part, and they'll do theirs, is how I see it."

Vynthear took it all in, trying to react to all that the tumultous humans - quite unlike the far less excited members of his own race - said or did.

To the friendly, even cheerful, propietor Salvana Wrafton he said.
"Thank you, a glass of wine and just some bread will do nicely."

To the elderly man Eilian he answered.
"If you do feel unsettled yourself, surely others must feel the same. And that in turn would most likely be the reason why they act so strange."
"Still, what exactly do you men by 'strange'."

To the accusations in general about withholding food from the populace, he commented.
"Surely the situation is not as drastic as that yet ? Or do you mean to say that those kobolds and those bandits prevent any merchant from coming here ? What about Lord Padraig's men ? Why don't they try to secure the roads ? Surely those adventurers you have mentioned have had some successes ? In which case it is a matter of informing the merchants of Fallcrest^1."
Of course, that's assuming that those adventurers actually have been successful, he thought.
"When has that adventuring group last been to Winterhaven ? Have they even returned ? Or does anyone know where they were headed ?"
Vynthear turned to the sullen elf.
"You look like a woman with expertise on the road to me. Would it not be possible for you to make the journey to Fallcrest and spread the news that the roads are getting safer again ?"
He looked at Stahl who had just vowed solemnly to do just that.
"Maybe we could accompany such a venture to Fallcrest to be on the safe side ? "

To all assembled he said.
"Does anyone know what happened to Sara ? When did she disappear ? And who is that new shop owner who took over ? I would like to talk to him or her ?"
"Those other citizens who have disappeared ? Were these men and women living inside these walls or in the hamlets and small homes outside ?"

Then he noticed the elderly man with the book, surely a learned men, maybe even a scholar or a wizard.
"Sir, you look like a learned man to me. Surely you have some knowledge of the past and the region. Has there been problems with kobolds and bandits before ? If so, surely someone in charge would have built a better stronghold than the one here ?"

1. I assume that's the nearest larger settlement ? Can we get a bit better location of Winterhaven, Fallcrest and Wintermist and Cairngorm Peaks and Gardbury Downs ? One the map preferably ? Just 'near the Thunderpeaks' is a bit vague... or does it not matter ?

The old man cheered at Stahls proclamation, while the dour elf eye him.
Handing him a glass of wine, she smiled and shrugged of the elf.
Eilian voiced concern.
"If they do, they hide it better than me, I feel...my mind being heavy. My body weak and lost of strength. Like someone is watching..constantly in the dark. By strange? Like dark rain clouds forming on a clear day out of nowhere with no sign of it. That to me, is strange!"

Salvana added.
"No one has heard from them yet - and it is not the first attempt. The regulars keep focus here, and keep out the few assaults we have. They do scout, but granted the amount rumored and seen has been too many for the towns meager defense. We hope the best...we do."

The elf shrugged.
"With everything going on, it would be unwise, even for me to do so. The roads are not safe, and I have no desire to risk my limps for meager returns."

At the mention of Sara, Eilian lighted up and Salvana sighed.
"Here we go..."
He sprung to life.
"I miss her so dearly. Allow me..."
He continued on with a saddened look in his eyes.
"Old Sara and her husband used to own the store were Bairwin now resides. It used to be an old pottery but Sara sold the store to Bairwin when her husband died several years ago. Old Sara always passed by the store on her morning and evening walks to the market. Otherwise she never left her home, saddened by the loss..it makes it all much more strange. Rumors has it that she entered the store the day she went missing, and never returned to the market, but they were spread by Thair whom has a grudge towards Bairwin’s shop, claiming that the shovels and so forth Bairwin bought from him, were sold exponentially to pricey and he could not believe how he turned the business around..he is suspicious of the man and his methods of making coin. No one here however have seen anything."

The man looked at him and nodded.
"Many keeps around here, but either abandoned or miss used.
One keep was built during the height of the old empire. Some sort of watchtower. I can’t recall what for. Some think it was to guard against gnoll marauders, but I don’t think that’s right. Whatever, the keep outlived its usefulness. It’s been a ruin since before I was born. Probably a goblin lair by this time. But you’ve whetted my curiosity. When I return to my tower, I’ll look through my library. The next time you see me here, I will know more.
However, good to see you met our kobolds, I see. No, no, not ours, really. But they have made it a habit to harass travelers on the old King’s Road. And, yes, what was once a minor annoyance has become a very real threat to the commerce of the village. Fewer and fewer travelers come our way these days, and even I have a harder and harder time keeping my shop stocked with the finest goods. I remember a trip I made to distant Clovermarsh, many years ago. The place was literally crawling with kobolds because the people of the area refused to drive them away. I wonder how long before the kobolds grow brave enough to strike
the village itself?”

OOC: The town of Winterhaven was located on the East Way, between the nations of Sembia and Cormyr. It was situated on the road between Arabel and Highmoon. Due to its location in the middle of the Thunder Peaks, it was not uncommon for the inhabitants to be attacked by monstrous races such as kobolds and goblins.

Vynthear frowned.
Well, again not really. A smooth brow like that of someone of the ancient race would not be mar but a deep furrowing of it so often seen on men, or even more on dwarfs, who were frowning most of the times anyway.
But it was a frown of sort, clearly seen by a darkening of the violet shade of Vnythear's almond shaped, pupil-less eyes.

What Eilean said about his feelings was clearly a lot more than general misgivings about a kobold plague.

Salvana obviously still had hope, but it was starting to dwindle away.

"Where is Bairwin's shop^1. ? And who is Thair^2. ?", he asked, quite intrigued by the strange disappearance of Sara, which was obviously of a completely different sort than the abduction of the other villagers. Then again, this was just an assumption of his. His questions in that regard had been missed^3..
"Those missing villagers. We are talking about abductions, right ? Their farms and homes have been attacked and there has been no trace of where they went ?"
He turned to Stahl.
"Maybe Prinz or yourself can find some tracks we could follow ?"
He turned back to the villagers.
"Which farm has been the latest victim of attack and abduction ?

The scholar's^4. reply held hope, but it would take some time for him to research matters.
"I am also a scholar of sorts, perhaps I could aid you in your investigations ?"

Vynthear was most displeased with the elf's attitude.
"Meagre returns ? You do not think it worthwhile to have food in the village ?"
He shook his head in disapproval.
"This does not become you. You look like a hunter to me, roaming the region. Surely it has crossed your mind to follow any tracks ? if only not to come across any warband. Maybe you even know where these kobolds have their lair ?"

Later he turned to Stahl again.
"I would talk to this Bairwin now. You are welcome to join me."

1. Simply to know it IC, too, I can see the map, of course
   
2. Same as above, i.e. the Smith
   
3. Whether these have all been villagers from outside the walled area, i.e. the outlying farms
   
4. This is surely Valthrun, right ?

"Their shops are north of the Market, opposed each other. Can't miss it!", Eilian added.

On the question of the missing Villagers, Salvana added.
"Both - families and lone villagers on the outskirts mostly but at least a handful from within the walls also. There is a farm just south of the main road here, which was raided and no one was left behind. A family of four."

The Scholar nodded.(He is indeed Valthrun)
"I am intrigued. What do you have in mind?"

The elf shrugged of Vynt, no willing to continue his chat with him. Eyeing out the window he ignored him onwards.

Vynthear was a bit unsettled that even citizens had been disappearing form the inside of the town.
So not abducted by the kobolds. It must the cult then, the cult to the Dark Mistress I have heard rumours about., he tought.

To Valthrun he said.
"Clearly what the villagers tell is a lot more ominous than mere Kobold attacks, no matter how severe their impact on local trade and so on. If you say that this watchtower has been erected for an unknown reason then I believe this reason to be very important. I have heard rumours. Rumours about a cult of Shar operating in the region. If they suddenly have an interest in the region there must be something valuable for them to be gained here. Thus I think your intrigue about old fortifications must be satisfied and four eyes can research quicker than two. If we find out what is a stake here, we stand a better chance of thwarting any evil plans. Together we may find the answer quicker. Knowledge prevails, always."

  "Sure. There'll be some casualties for a while, but that's just the sort of thing those enterprising city folk like to throw money at. Get enough swords and bows on that road and the kobolds will head for easier hunting grounds quickly enough.

Stahl scoffs. "That's the kind of attitude that's going to kill this town. You do the 'meager' jobs first, to show you have what it takes to do the richer jobs."

He looks the elf up and down. "I know you elves like to take things slow and not risk your overly-long lives. But if this lad here," he indicates Vynthear, "is willing, then you should be too."

"Nothing easier. The trick is not following those tracks into a kobold ambush."

"Alright. No point in heading out yet anyway, until we've found out if anyone else in this town has the spirit to defend it." Stahl finishes his meal and Prinz brings along his bone to gnaw as the humanoids do their thing.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:38, Mon 19 June 2017.

The elf remained, ignoring him with intent, a grimace on his face.
Salvana shrugged.

The sage nodded.
"You speak of...oh...I had a thought. Listen. Come to my tower east of here. Past midday, for I have something to investigate. Then, we can share information - I just...I have to check something first." - he spoke frantically as a man who had an epiphany suddenly and was overpowered by it.
It did allow for Vynth to partake in other matters.

Vynthear strongly disapproved the elf's attitude, but there really was nothing to do about it.

Bairwin's store was just across the market square and easy to find.
The rain had chased away any peddlers and sellers, so unfortunately they could not question anybody who might know soemthing more about Sara. If she used to come daily to the market, surely someone would know her and maybe of her, too.

As they entered, Vynthear checked on the wares on display to get a better notion of the man. It seemed to be well stocked despite the lack of trade recently. Either his customers were few indeed or the man had some other methods to fill up.
Villagers disappearing, one of them Sara. And the smith claims she was last seen here, he thought.
He smiled at Bairwin.
"Good day to you. My, but your shop is well stocked. You must have an extensive basement.", he commented.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:57, Tue 20 June 2017.

The man, Bairwin eyed him and chuckled.
"Actually I have good turnaround - I sell quite a bit to travellers and such, business is good, but aye, my storage is also quite sufficient for the task. Anywhom, good sir, can I aid you in something? Something that tickles your fancy here?"

"Just how do you manage ? The whole village moans about the loss on trade because of the increased banditry. You are a lucky man indeed."
Vynthear watched the man closely, hoping to catch him on a slip of words, maybe betraying uncanny knowledge about the whole situation.
"As it were, I hope you can help me indeed. Sara, you may know her by 'Old Sara' though indeed by the reckoning of my kin she is but a child. Sara has mentioned in a letter to me that you may actually have some interesting goods that might catch my interest as a scholar and wizard. That's why I travelled here, only to learn that Sara has disappeared. Funny enough, she seems to have last been seen here in your shop."

"I think outside the box, unlike most here. Thair is envious, but he could have done so himself with a little ingenuity and skill; I export and import beyond the borders and do what I have to do to get a deal through. Luck is as they say, a fine mix between preparation and opportunity. As for Sara? Yes, I bought her shop when she hit hard times following the death of her husband, a kind man, but sick and ill on his last days. Shame really."


As he spoke of her last days here, he shrugged.
"Not to my knowledge, who said so? Seems like petty rumor mongering if you ask me. She visited, yes, and saw her old shop was in good hand and we shared a few words and some tea. Nothing fancy. She left some time after."

Vynthear Klayde rolled 3 using 1d100.  potions of healing available (less than 50%).
Vynthear Klayde rolled 3 using 1d100.  level 1 magic item (less than 25%).

Aha, interesting rolls.
What does he have on offer then :D ?

---

"Ah yes, the challenges of keeping an enterprise profitable."
"Actually I don't know who mentioned it, someone at the inn just a couple of minutes ago. That why I am here, see ?"
"But since we talk of a disappeared person anyway... I suppose you are aware that a full score of people have disappeared lately ? Since you mentioned your extensive contacts beyond the immediate area perhaps you know something more ?"

He nodded with a smile.
"I see..in these times people talk and run their mouth and suspect too much. The strain of lacking food and tensions around town will do that - spur panic. As for beyond? I know some, mostly about what those delivering my goods have seen yes. Most travels by horse or similarly remain of the beaten path and tend to different routes. Seems the brigands head for the main road, no wonder, above all else, which has proven to be a viable tactic for them and one we predicted well. They speak of great numbers and a looming threat, but last I heard, someone was sent off to take care of it, no?"

^{He can offer any general item, along with various trinkets used in mining and farming, and some selective magical items upto level three.}

After nearly two days journey, the band of warriors had nearly returned to Winterhaven.  The keep loomed in the distance.  It was a welcome sight after their numerous battles and near death experiences, especially for Ignatz and Kbenjar.

"Saskan, I think you should present the bounty and findings to Lord Padraig.  Meanwhile, Warfyn, you'll be the one to monitor Bairwin since the elf knows you by sight.  Ignatz, you and I will track down the elf.  She's clearly the most dangerous, if she is indeed the spy.  Are we agreed?"

"Aye, Uncle. I'll deliver the bounty." Saskan moves off toward the Manor House where he presumes Lord Padraig will be at this hour.

Ignatz grins toothily, and claps Malphurious rather forcibly on the shoulder. "Dot soundz like a goot plan! VE HUNT!"

While the group might have expected great cheers of their arrival, few reacted, many appearing nervous, pausing to give furtive glances before darting away.
A familiar face however appears shortly after - Rond, the guard captain.
"Hails! Hopefully you come bearing good news...we could surely need something to uplift the spirit of the town. Please - share, and the Lord will be advised as well.."

Rond's voice is piercing and anyone nearby(Stahl and Vynth) can also notice the commotion regardless of present location.
Bairwin let's out a dry comment.
"Ah, the heroes of Winterhaven have returned..."
People turn, at his words, and eye the group, hoping that he is right.
Suddenly and from the inn, the Lord himself appeared, curious to hear more..

In reply to Storyteller (msg # 27):

Prinz barks and Stahl looks up from the jar he was inspecting. "Looks like the other adventurers have returned. I'll see what the situation is."

Stahl and Prinz leave Bairwin's and head over to where the group is entering. When one of them (other than the monstrous barbarian) appears to have a moment, he steps up.

"Hello, I'm Stahl Tropfstein, this is Prinz. We and another are interested in helping this town with its current troubles. I don't suppose you've left any kobolds that need seeing to?"

His talks being interrupted by some commotion outside, Vynthear followed Bairwin and Stahl outside to note the return of the adventurer group which ahd set out to supposedly dispatch the Kobold threat.

Stahl immediately makes off to talk to the Newcomers, but Vynthear held back noting the arrival of the local lord. He edged closer to make sure he heard every word exchanged.

The Lord eyes Stahl and makes a note of his eagerness, while keeping a stern eye on the group who returned.
"So, Shed some light - are we free of the damnation of those pesky kobolds? Can we ask for trades to arrive? Did you find the missing villagers?"
He was eager to know more, and hoped they came with good tidings.