The Harbormaster's Price
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The Toll GateThe TollhouseThe Roadside Ditch
Roleplay EncounterDND5E 2024Party L6 · 4 PCs
The Harbormaster's Price
Read Aloud
The road ends at a timber gate, where a broad man in a wet blue coat holds one hand over an open ledger. He shuts the book as you approach and says, “No one passes until the missing levy is paid, and I know exactly who owes it.” Behind him, the gatehouse bell hangs within easy reach.
The Scene
NEUTRALNEGOTIATIONBase DC 14Stakes The gate closes at sunset; missing it forces the party into the flooded low road while the patrol searches for them.
20 to 35 minutes
NPC Goal
Keep his post, recover enough money to satisfy the council, and avoid admitting that his deputy robbed the levy chest.
Leverage
The party can expose the deputy, pay part of the levy, protect the farmers, or appeal to Venn's fear of losing his post.
Player Approaches
- Ask who signed the levy order.
- Offer to inspect the missing cargo trail.
- Mention the waiting farmers and the approaching storm.
- Promise Venn credit for resolving the theft quietly.
- Threaten to call the town council or the watch.
NPC Gambits
- Trade proof for a written travel pass.
- Separate Venn from the ledger and inspect its recent entries.
- Offer Venn a way to blame the theft on the deputy without public disgrace.
- Challenge the levy as unlawful and demand the gate be opened.
- Use the farmers as witnesses to Venn's conduct.
NPC Reactions
- A calm question about the levy makes Venn defensive but willing to explain.
- An honest offer to recover the money earns one success immediately.
- A threat makes Venn reach for the bell-rope.
- Proof against the deputy changes Venn from obstruction to reluctant cooperation.
- Helping the farmers makes Venn lower his voice and offer a private bargain.
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