Manor Repairs:
The following morning, after a good breakfast together, Zarek and Alley plan their day and talk about the major repairs needed. Zarek is to go and purchase some supplies, from the Trades Ward, including fresh meat for the pseudodragons.
Meanwhile, Alley would stay back in the Manor just in case they had more Guild Visits.
Zarek first used his Spell ‘Disguise Self’ to change his appearance to that of a Male, Human Cook.
Zarek, disguised as the Human Cook, makes his way to the Field Ward and to the Scrap’d Rafter. There he looks for Iomhar Rackham but does not see him in the Tavern. The disguised Rogue then told Warble Bandlewagon that he was looking for him and that he would know where to find him.
Then Zarek sets off for a wander down to the Trades Ward via the scenic route. Zarek was successful and brought back several days’ worth of food and the fresh meat too.
When he arrived back at Trollskull Manor, major repairs still on his mind, he can hear Alley speaking with someone and the sound of hammering and banging in the Taproom. Zarek opened the Manor door and walked in to find Alley speaking to someone that was standing far too close to her and the sound of the work was emanating from behind the bar.
Alley: “Thank you very much for your time, Justyn Rassk and I am sure it will be a pleasure working with you and the Guid of Butchers.”
Zarek could see that Justyn Rassk was a dead-eyed, slack-jawed male, Illuskan human thug. Zarek could see that he must have grown up in the toughest Neighbourhood in the Field Ward and has the scars to prove it.
Zarek guessed the guild doesn’t pay him enough for him to afford a residence in the North Ward, and going to that part of the city fills his heart with resentment. He will darken the characters’ doorstep once a month to deliver a cartload of chopped meat for the Tavern’s larder.
Alley guessed that although delivery fees are covered by the guild’s monthly dues, Justyn was demanding some extra coin for his service. He was wanting a gratuity of at least 3 gp, and he says,
Justyn Rassk: “Maybe next time the meat will be someone you know.”
He lets the threat hang in the air, Alley stares him down and then Justyn Rassk departs.
From behind the Bar, Talisolvanar “Tally” Fellbranch appears. He had been replacing the Trapdoor, which was rotten and nearly did for Jenks. More major repairs needed.
Tally is happy to help and offers his service for the rest of the Manor but says he needs to go as he was just passing and is not sure how he ended up helping. Alley smiles and Zarek.
Alley then makes her way to the Tower of the Order to see if she can find out any information regarding the previous ownership by the Watchful Order of Magists and Protectors and Trollskull Manor.
Zarek is left alone at Trollskull Manor pondering the major repairs needed to be done.
Zarek had another urge to check the Cellar and he went to have a look and he first stopped and listened at the Cellar Trapdoor; he could hear the noise of clinking bottles below.
Zarek then went down the ladder to look for any sighs of tracks. Yet again he failed to find any as the floor was too damp, there was not enough light or any number of other excuses that he gave himself. Again, he thinks that he has missed something and even though he had a good look through the wine racks, where he heard the noise, there were other bottles on the floor which may have made the noise and the bricked-up wall was also something to investigate.
Zarek then hears the Trapdoor slam shut and he is not to alarmed at first and continues his search. When at last he attempts to exit the Ale Cellar, he finds that the Trapdoor is shut, but it had no lock. This means that someone or something was onto of it. The Rouge climbs the ladder and is able to force open the trapdoor at his first attempt. Another task for the major repairs.
Zarek: “This can’t be right as Tally has only just repaired the trapdoor, something strange is going on here.”
Then there was another knock at the door and this time it was Broxley Fairkettle accompanied by 3 Dwarves and 2 Humans. Broxley Fairkettle asks if he and his fellow Guild members could enter to provide quotes for the major repairs.
Major Repairs Team:
Broxley Fairkettle introduces the Guild Members Quoting for major repairs:
- One of the Dwarves were from the Cellarers’ and Plumbers’ Guild.
- The second Dwarf was from the Surveyors’, Map, and Chartmakers’ Guild.
- The third Dwarf was from the Guild of Chandlers and Lamplighters.
- One of the Humans was from the Carpenters’, Roofers’ and Plasterers’ Guild
- The second Human was from the Coopers’ Guild.
Alley and Zarek hope to use the services of Tally, Avi and Embric for the Metalwork and Woodwork for some of the major repairs.
Zarek offer Broxley Fairkettle and the others a drink and they all thank the Tiefling and accept is hospitality.
Zarek: “While I have you all, I need to tell you of the Spirit that also lives in Trollskull Manor and just so you all know…”
Dwarf: “I should think that you have Spirits, it is a Tavern after all.”
Broxley Fairkettle looks obviously nervous and tries to change the subject.
Zarek: “No really, there is a Ghost called Lif and he was a previous owner.”
Human 1: “No one mentioned that to me.”
Dwarf 2: “Or Me, I’m think I have another appointment.”
Human 2: “Me too, lets share a Hansom cab.”
Broxley Fairkettle: “looks like there has been a misunderstand, is that not so Zarek?”
Zarek realises that normal common folk from Waterdeep were hardy but Magic and the Undead where a different matter.
Zarek: “Indeed, my apologies. I think my humour may not have translated correctly.”
Broxley Fairkettle: “It has been a misunderstand and I have some fine Wine that will allow us to overlook and toast our contacts.”
Zarek: “Yes please, join us in a drink and something to eat.”
Dwarves: “Food and drink, well it would be rude not to stay.”
All the members of their respective Guilds eat, drink and then go off and inspect rundown Trollskull Manor.
Zarek shows the Masonry that fell from the Tower and the Guild Member from Carpenters’, Roofers’ and Plasterers’ Guild said that should never have fallen, unless someone wanted it to and that Zarek may have been mistaken.
After sometime Zarek accompanies the Humans about the upper floors while two of the Dwarves decided into the Cellars. Then the Rogue hears a crash and a scream coming from the Taproom. The Rogue Dashes down hoping he is in time to aid whoever was in trouble.
Zarek: “I should have gone down with them, that bloody Cellar.”
Zarek reaches the Taproom, attaches his NEW Silk Rope to the bar and lowers himself down.
Zarek find that the ladder used by the Dwarves had broken, one of the Dwarves was kneeling next to the other who was out cold and his head was bleeding profusely. The Rogue attempts to stanch the bleeding and does a very bad job until he doubles his efforts and is inspired to save the Dwarf who looked very much dead and gone.
Zarek: “Come I have plenty more food for you all it’s the least I can do.”
Zarek spends the rest of the evening preparing, as best he can, the food that he had bought for the week, remembering to leave some for Alley.
The Guild Members present Zarek with the estimate for the major repairs to be carried out and the ongoing fees too:
Major Repairs Quote:
ℭ𝔦𝔱𝔶 𝔬𝔣 𝔚𝔞𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔡𝔢𝔢𝔭
Office of the Guilds and Trades – Official Restoration Estimate
Date: 30th Day of Mirtul, 1492 DR
To the Esteemed Proprietors of Trollskull Manor,
Pursuant to your request for the comprehensive restoration of Trollskull Manor, located in the North Ward of Waterdeep, the following estimate outlines the necessary repairs, associated costs, durations, and the guilds responsible for each task.
Structural and Essential Repairs
| Task | Cost (gp) | Duration | Guild(s) Responsible |
| Roof Repair | 200gp | 12 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Plumbing Replacement | 80gp | 12 days | Cellarers’ and Plumbers’ Guild |
| Chimney Cleaning & Servicing | 5gp | 1 day | Guild of Chandlers and Lamplighters |
| Brick Repair & Replastering | 45gp | 5 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Broken Window Replacements | 50gp | 1 day | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Cellar Refurbishment | 15gp | 3 days | Cellarers’ and Plumbers’ Guild |
| Kitchen Hearth Replacement | 100gp | 5 days | Guild of Stonecutters, Masons, Potters, and Tile-makers |
| Replace Locks | 15gp | 1 day | Splendid Order of Armorers, Locksmiths, and Finesmiths |
| Water-Damaged Floor Repair | 225gp | 12 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Fix Balcony Railing | 20gp | 4 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Lighting Fixture Replacements | 25gp | 5 days | Guild of Chandlers and Lamplighters |
| Street Repair | 10gp | 3 days | Loyal Order of Street Laborers |
| TOTAL COST | 790gp |
Furnishings and Interior Enhancements
| Task | Cost (gp) | Duration | Guild(s) Responsible |
| Replacement & Repair of Furniture | 250gp | 12 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Replace Sign | 15gp | 5 days | Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild |
| Clean Sheets, Tablecloths, Washcloths | 45gp | 3 days | Launderers’ Guild |
| Dishes and Cookware | 30gp | 1 day | Most Careful Order of Skilled Smiths and Metalforgers |
| Replace Rugs | 15gp | 1 day | Solemn Order of Recognized Furriers and Woolmen |
| TOTAL COST | 355gp | ||
| GRAND TOTAL | 1,000gp |
Provisions and Services Contracts
| Service | Cost (gp) | Duration | Guild(s) Responsible |
| Bread and Pastries Contract | 10gp | ‘10 day’ | Bakers’ Guild |
| Fruit, Vegetables, & Dairy | 5gp | ‘10 day’ | Council of Farmer-Grocers |
| Street Cleaning | 5gp | ‘10 day’ | Dungsweepers’ Guild |
| Fellowship of Innkeepers Membership | 10gp | ‘10 day’ | Fellowship of Innkeepers |
| Meat Delivery Contract | 15gp | ‘10 day’ | Guild of Butchers |
| Firewood & Candle Delivery | 5gp | ‘10 day’ | Guild of Chandlers and Lamplighters |
| Ale and Wine Delivery Contract | 20gp | ‘10 day’ | Vintners’, Distillers’, and Brewers’ Guild |
| Staff Wages | 10gp | ’10 day’ | Chef, Barmaids, Maids |
| TOTAL COST | 80gp |
Summary
- Total Estimated Cost: 1145 gp
- Estimated Completion Time: 12 days (assuming concurrent work schedules)
- Note: All work must be coordinated through the appropriate guilds. Permits and licenses are included in the above estimate.
Guild Seals of Approval
Carpenters’, Roofers’, and Plaisterers’ Guild
Cellarers’ and Plumbers’ Guild
Guild of Chandlers and Lamplighters
Guild of Stonecutters, Masons, Potters, and Tile-makers
Splendid Order of Armorers, Locksmiths, and Finesmiths
Loyal Order of Street Laborers
Launderers’ Guild
Most Careful Order of Skilled Smiths and Metalforgers
Solemn Order of Recognized Furriers and Woolmen
Bakers’ Guild
Council of Farmer-Grocers
Dungsweepers’ Guild
Fellowship of Innkeepers
Guild of Butchers
Vintners’, Distillers’, and Brewers’
Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the respective guild offices.
May your establishment thrive and bring prosperity to Trollskull Alley.
Signed,
Broxley Fairkettle
Representative, Fellowship of Innkeepers
Alley finally returns saying that she will be contacted by someone form the Watchful Order of Magists and Protectors’ once they have the information she requested.
Zarek introduces everyone to Alley and the members of the Guild, who leave the major repairs bill, all bid farewell and they all leave together.
Alley: “You didn’t say anything strange did you Zarek?”
Zarek: “Whatever do you mean?”
Alley: “You know exactly what I mean, sometimes you share too much information.”
Zarek: “Maybe.” Zarek says sheepishly.
Silver For Major Repairs:
Then the two adventurers suddenly spin around as they hear the sound of footsteps and munching?
Iomhar Rackham: “I’m not sure if you sound like siblings or if you should just get a room?”
Zarek: “We have plenty of rooms upstairs.”
Alley roll her eyes as the two adventurers see that the Filed Ward Rogue, Iomhar, had helped himself to Alley’s food.
Iomhar Rackham: “It’s not chicken, but it’ll do.”
The three all sit down, once Alley had managed to make herself a plate, and Iomhar provided Zarek with his requested list of Waterdeep Fences.
Iomhar Rackham: “Remember to get rid of the list, nothing to make the City Watch’s life easier I always say.”
Remembering that Alasha Gaige from the Filed Ward, knows as the King Pin of Tent Town, is also a possibility. However, it may come with conditions or favours in return, Iomhar provides the following list of names:
1. Istrid Horn
- Race/Sex: Dwarf Female, (Zhentarim, A.K.A Black Network, A.K.A. Zhents)
- Description: A moneylender and fence for the Zhentarim, Istrid is pragmatic and ruthless. She launders money and fences magic items through her network.
- Location: Dock Ward/ Fishgut Alley. The shield dwarf operates an illegal lending operation out of a heavily guarded warehouse in the Dock Ward, by the “Sleeping Snake”, offering loans to those in need of coin. (Uses disguised courier pickups), frequently moves.
- Goods Fenced: Magic items (uncommon–rare), Art Objects, Precious Metals, Gems.
- Pricing: Buys at 40–60% value; sells at 120–150% (Zhentarim contacts get better rates).
2. Khemed “Knucklebones” el-Saer
- Race/Sex: Human Male
- Description: A smooth-talking Calishite fence who deals in rare gems and precious metals, curios, and spell components. Known for discretion and sarcasm.
- Location: Trades Ward/Wall Street – operates out of a dice den behind a rug shop.
- Goods Fenced: Gems, Precious Metals, Minor Magic Items, Smuggled Goods.
- Pricing: Buys at 40–70% value; sells at 130%–160%.
3. Elra “Locksnap” Tumblebelch
- Race/Sex: Rock Gnome Female
- Description: Former locksmith turned Fence, specializes in magical trinkets, devices, and scrolls. Friendly, but fiercely protective of clients.
- Location: Southern Ward/Coachlamp Lane, “Tumblebelch’s Tinker Trove”
- Goods Fenced: Scrolls, Enchanted Items, Arcane Tools.
- Pricing: Buys at 50–75% value; sells at 125%–140%.
4. Maelra Harlathurl
- Race/Sex: Human Female
- Description: A Jeweller with a respectable storefront, secretly buys and resells uncut stones, precious metals and stolen art for the Zhentarim Black Network.
- Location: North Ward/Lion Street, “Harlathurl’s Fine Gems”
- Goods Fenced: Gems, Precious Metals, Jewellery, Some Art.
- Pricing: Buys at 70–80% of value; Zhentarim pay less, new clients pay more.
5. “Two-Fingers” Varn
- Race/Sex: Half-Orc Male
- Description: A former enforcer with only three fingers left, now deals in cursed items and dangerous contraband. Gruff and paranoid.
- Location: Dock Ward, behind “The Bloody Fist” tavern
- Goods Fenced: Cursed/Black-Market Magic, Stolen Tomes, Poisons.
- Pricing: Buys at 20–50%; sells at 200%+ due to risk.
6. Nimrael Duskwhisper
- Race/Sex: Half-Elf Female, NE, Warlock 4
- Description: An enigmatic figure who moves between the ‘City of the Dead’ and Skullport, fencing arcane items and lore.
- Location: Skullport or Southern Catacombs, contact via Sending or intermediaries.
- Goods Fenced: Rare Magic Items, Scrolls, Forbidden Books.
- Pricing: Negotiable; often trades in favours or information.
Iomhar Rackham warn Zarek of the possible dangers of dealing with these Fences and their associates.
Iomhar Rackham: “Is there anyone in particular that you like and what is it exactly that you want to sell?”
Zarek realises that Iomhar has a professional interest and is seeing if the Zhentarim are friends or foes to the two adventurers. Zarek shows Iomhar one of the Silver Bars and the Rogue seems to have his curiosity satisfied, for now.
Iomhar leaves and Zarek recounts his movements and discoveries throughout the day to his partner in crime, Alley.
OUTSTANDING ISSUES/QUESTIONS/RESEARCH:
Trollskull Manor:
- What is happening with the blood in the basement?
- Are one or more of the previous owners involved?
- Where is Lif?
- What is causing the unrest in Trollskull Manor (Stone Falling & Trapdoor)?
- Find money for the major repairs
The Grand Game:
- What are the Zhentarim and Xanathar Guild looking for?
- What did the Zhentarim find in Renaer Neverember’s Cameo (Word Up)?
- Is the Mind Flayer the Boss and where did he disappear too?
- The Zhentarim Duergar from the Sewers had seen Zarek and Alley. The Rogue and Fighter know of Zarek’s Name?