2010-05-29
We take a few moments, move off the trail, bind our wounds and discuss what to do next. Steed offers information of value to us and to lead us to the groups hideout. He says he is a hunter and only fell in when times got rough. We discovered that we had killed Steel Eyed Pete – a local ruffian and highwayman. We agree to the deal with Steed, and he tells us we can collect a bounty for Pete, and that he got the sword recently and has been acquiring the armor and weapons over a period of time – some before Steed joined. The marks on the blades all indicated they were made in the Merchant Cities – north of Dunstrand. Steed leads us to the cave, about 4 hours away. Beedel and Bill stay with the animals while the rest and Steed (who we force to go first) go into the cave. Apparently Pete did not tell Steed everything, as the trap and collapse kills Steed and seals the rest of the party in for three days. However, we do manage to get hundreds of silvers in goods and treasure. Belim, Ace and Grumwell found a keg of brandy and managed to drink it during the three days – who knows how much that was worth.
Also found were 3 good daggers, 1 vase (50), mixed coins totaling 200 silver, boots + clothes, 3 old poultices (3 pt) and bandages, 2 spears, 2 bedrolls, old bear pelt (50 silvers) a good set of boots and clothes, broad sword, purse with 50 silvers and 3 rings worth 30 each. Some old food, salted meats and sundry items are scattered about as well.
Looking over it all, this is WAY MORE than some hold out for a bandits. Better organized than any the group has seen, and rich enough to have good clothes and a treasure trove planned in case they have to disappear! Something is amiss – bandits armed with real weapons, all with markings from the same place in the north, even their normal equipment is good and new to boot; coordinated with ‘peddlers’ that just happen to be waiting for the party? *No way its coincidence. *