Baron Belwick Donnamoor's page

Belwick is surprised by the hug, but is smart enough to recover quickly. He is unaccustomed to, well, anything of the sort from his king. He barely manages a few words before the king calls forth his retinue once more.

At the proclamation of his named of Viscount of Salinmoor the man nearly faints. The gravity is not lost upon him, and it's an awkwardly long moment that passes before he is able to croak out words to acknowledge this. "It would be greatest honour to serve you, my king. The south will be made safe and prosperous by my hand, and by your will."

He once more bows to his liege lord, and when he once more stands straight he's unable to hide the wetness to his eyes. "Apologies, my king. A bit of dust in my eyes."

Belwick manages, barely, to be nonplussed about Alisanne's declaration of intent to carouse the nights away. In another life, another time, he'd maybe have done the same.

He places a hand on the magical conch shell given to him by Iliza, then decides he'll send a message to hear later.

The nobleman makes his way to the royal palace, speaking with a courtier, then the king's seneschal, before ultimately gaining an audience with the king himself.

"Milord," Belwick says, bowing deeply to his liege. "I come with tidings from the southern reaches of your kingdom. My time in Saltmarsh has been... interesting."

He then launches into a detailed accounting of events in Saltmarsh, with a focus on the Scarlet Brotherhood. He mentions the leadership vacuum created by the deaths and betrayals, the alliances he's helped form with the regions nonhuman inhabitants, the changing position of the Sea Princes, and anything else he feels might pertain to national security.

Once done, he briefly mentions a responsibility he must attend to in the Barrier Peaks, then looks for orders. He'll also mention that he has a vested interest in Saltmarsh, and would like to return there if permitted to do so.

The bell above the door chimed softly as Belwick stepped into Tharald's Threads & Trim, a a modest yet refined tailor's shop nestled along a cobbled lane. The scent of pressed linen and cedar oil hung in the air, mingling with the quiet rustle of fabric. Bolts of silk and brocade lined the walls like banners of a hundred noble houses, and a mannequin in the window wore a doublet so finely embroidered it seemed fit for a coronation. From behind a curtain emerged a wiry man with silver spectacles and a measuring tape draped around his neck. "Lord Donnamoor! Welcome!" he said, delivering a practiced bow. "It has been some time since I have had the good fortune of your noble esteem gracing my humble establishment. How may I serve the Baron of Donnamoor?"

Belwick swept off his traveling cloak, revealing finery that had seen better days. "Master Tharald, I seek attire worthy of an audience with King Skotti," he said, beaming a smile at the tailor. It is good to be addressed once more with such respect. I had nearly forgotten what it felt like. "Something that speaks of nobility, but does not drown in ostentation."

Tharald’s eyes lit up with the challenge. He gestured toward a chaise and began pulling swatches from a drawer—deep forest green velvet, gold-threaded damask, and a subtle silver silk that shimmered like moonlight. As he worked, he asked after Belwick’s family and the nature of his visit, having his apprentice bring out refreshments. Belwick, unable to help himself, expounded on his exploits in and around Saltmarsh. He only left out mention of the Scarlet Brotherhood, remembering that his mission is meant to have a degree of secrecy to it.

Within the hour, Tharald had sketched a design: a high-collared doublet of emerald velvet trimmed in silver braid, paired with tailored trousers and a ceremonial sash embroidered with merfolk in silver thread—a subtle nod to his time spent with Iliza. "It shall be ready by morning," Tharald promised, once more calling for his apprentice.

Belwick nodded, satisfied. As he stepped back into the street, he looked skyward and exhaled a deep breath. This is good. I feel at home, at peace with my purpose.

"I don't know that we should stay for long. After all, we do have business in the Barrier Peaks. But I must seek an audience with the king. If you wish, you may join me."

He then looks over the group. "That said, if you are to join me then you will need to acquire some appropriate attire. I know a tailor here that does excellent work."

Belwick will set off to get some new clothes, and then make his way to the Noble District to see his king.
Buying Fine Clothes, which costs 15gp

Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5
From the comfort of the interior of the carriage, Belwick retrieves a gold-inlaid vial and begins casting his most potent conjuration spell.

Seconds later a shape made of stone and dirt emerges from the ground near a bandit. It immediately sets to striking them down. Cast Summon Elemental
Slam 1 vs Bandit: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16
Slam 2 vs Bandit: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

Short Rest: 3d6 + 3 ⇒ (2, 5, 4) + 3 = 14
"Excellent. I'm ready to move on."

"I understand the sentiment, Venn. Although it is harmless on its own, how it arrived here was... less so. I would liken this to a single ant, walking the earth with a single purpose. The ant is nothing to you and I, but remember that it hails from an ant hill larger than anything we could imagine. Their strength is in the collective."

He gives the others a pointed look. "Please, don't piss it off."

When Baghotir makes to move on, Baron instead sits. "I need a few moments, please. I'm feeling a bit sore, what with all that explosion leaving me singed and bruised. Let's all take a moment to sent to our wounds, yes?"
Proposing a short rest so I can spend some hit dice and get hit points back

"Hrm. It does seem that I misidentified this creature. At least a little. It is indeed a modron. But I thought maybe it was a duodrone or something more advanced. But this is a monodrone. The most simple, singular purpose version of its kind. And it should be fairly harmless."

He studies the modron for a moment, then shrugs. "I see no harm in you following us, Gearbox. You may join us."

And assuming that it does not understand his words, Belwick adds a beckoning gesture to show it has permission to follow along.

Caelius stares in awe on how much the Belwick knows. "Mech Anus? Am I saying that right?" He watches the strange metallic creature unsure of what it wants still, or even how it got here.

Belwick blinks several times. "Close enough."

Per Slack, DM says I can safely geek out

"It should be noted that I know of your kind," he says this partially for the benefit of the others. "You are a modron, a being of law and order. You hail from Mechanus, which is not of this plane of existence, but a realm filled with creatures bound by order."

"I do hope that you are not a harbinger of another march..."

Belwick steps forward, taking the mantel of group speaker with practiced ease. "Well met, Gearbox. I am Baron Belwick Donnamoor, one of many lords within the Country of Keoland. You have correctly identified our destination. And while we are not averse to assistance, I would like to know how it is you came to know our destination. I would also ask that you detail what 'utility powers' you possess. We are a resourceful group already."

The nobleman also considers his past studies. Perhaps my magical mentor, Oriel Blackmane, has mentioned these creatures, or Mechanus, in the past? Or maybe there is a tome about it in my library?
Arcana: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

Dex save: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13
13 damage

"Please, be careful Alisanne," Belwick says, moving a few steps behind the bard. "If you suspect the presence of magic, step back and let me study it. I can perform the necessary rituals to identify it."

Recalling that the monthly fee from his prior agreement with Agreg, Belwick by necessity collects some offered coins from Caelius and Baghotir. "This will go a long way, I assure you."
300 gold from Baghotir and Caelius

The nobleman goes to meet with the Centurian, expecting to also see Ulzer and the others of his troop. Once formalities have been met, Belwick gets down to business"I require your services for one month to hunt down the gnolls who are threatening this region. Our previous arrangement was 450 gold pieces, but I recognize that this is likely a challenging endeavour and you will need resources. Thus, I am willing to pay you 750 gold pieces."

"In addition, I will offer you this," he holds out the Gem of Brightness. "The magic within can provide light, but with the appropriate activation word can be made bright enough to temporarily blind your enemies. Lastly, I will share with Ulzer the abjurative knowledge of countering magicks. Something that you have seen me employ to great effect. I see this as an incredibly generous offer, and as such expect to see results. Proof of your success."

Belwick leaves the prisoners with Caelius, who he expects understands the law enforcement procedures enough that he need not be involved. He stifles a yawn. "Let me know if you need anything from me, Caelius. I am going to retire at my townhouse."

The next morning he wakes up with something of a plan for the gnoll problem. Sitting at the desk in his library, Belwick studies the arcane writings in his spellbook to ready himself for the day. Elmo, the former wizard and agent of the Sea Princes, brings him tea made from herbs in his garden. He gives the man a grateful nod before dismissing him for the day.

He then casts a spell that allows him to speak across long distances, sharing words with Agreg, the hobgoblin commander he'd previously employed. "It is Baron Belwick Donnamoor. I have need for your services to hunt gnolls. Will you meet me outside Keledek's hideout? Please be brief."

Once he's heard back from the centurian, the nobleman will want to see Iliza. If he cannot readily find her he'll use the magical conch shell to inquire about her whereabouts.

Seeing the tide of votes stand against him, Belwick sighs and acquiesces. "Very well. You all speak with wisdom. We must trust that the people of Saltmarsh have the strength needed for this task. Or the wherewithal to enlist a group of adventurers to fend off the gnolls. Let's get back to Saltmarsh, deal with our prisoners, and then get ready for a longer journey."

"While I agree in principal that this is no small task, I don't know that a gnoll pack is something we can ignore either. They are fiendish creatures who seem to have become emboldened enough to hunt so close to Saltmarsh. It won't be long before travellers are dead due to their depredations."

Belwick looks at the group. "Although not asked, I believe we will once more need to step up in service to Saltmarsh. What say you all?"

Belwick shadows Venn, hoping to learn something of how the ranger investigates in the wilderness.
Investigate: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22
Nature: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 16

It likely comes as no surprise when the nobleman talks over Venn, sharing his own insights before the woodsman can.

"Do we truly need to sleep outdoors, what with Saltmarsh as close as it is?" the nobleman asks the group. He clearly does not relish the idea of sleeping on the ground. "I'd rather we push on, but if you tell me this is the best way then... so be it."

If the consensus is to make camp here, Belwick will ritually cast Alarm and Leomund's Tiny Hut before going to sleep

Belwick looks to Alisanne, standing such that his regal bearing is on full display. "It appears that this woman lacks any real usefulness. She knows little, and is willing to share even less. She won't explain why she's a prisoner, how she was contacted. Not even her own name. I think I am done with her."

To punctuate this point, Belwick turns and moves to question the other prisoners. Maintaining that regal bearing he says, "I would like for our conversation to go smoothly, and indeed I'm in a position to be lenient. Helpful even. You got mixed up with the wrong crowd, I can see that. So help me, and I can help you."

The nobleman looks at the two toughs with some pity. "Tell me everything you know about the Scarlet Order, and I'll work to get you out of this sticky situation."
Persuasion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

"I've no doubt that whatever they had planned was not good. You should consider yourself lucky that it's us you're with right now."

Belwick studies the woman for a moment, trying to make sense of who she really is in this whole situation. "I'm glad at least that you see the mistake you have made. But I must ask: who are you? What is your history here?"
Persuasion to Learn About Her: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
Insight to Get a Read on Her: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

Belwick examines the gash he'd been given by the assassin. "Outside of a nasty cut and the blood stain to my clothing, I should survive. The wound isn't grievous, though I would never turn down your expert ministrations."

The nobleman will look at the captured woman, then at Alisanne. "Did you want to start this conversation, or shall I?"

"Tie them all up. I'd like to question them. Especially our runner."

With a quick gesture and a muttered word, Belwick erects a magical force shield that just barely manages to deflect the bolt.
Cast Shield. With Mage Armor, AC is 19 until the start of his turn.

The invisible armors the nobleman has in place manages to turn away one blade strike, but the flurry of attacks from the assassin is too much to fend off completely. The lone cut stings, especially as the poison does its work.
1 hit for 6+17 damage. Need to make a concentration check
Concentration vs DC 10: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

Belwick yelps in pain, losing his focus. The earth spirit loses its connection to this plane, sloughing down into a pile of dirt. Still, Belwick remain resolute. "You're delaying the inevitable, nothing more."

Speaking another arcane word, Belwick dissipates into swirling mist only to appear behind the three warriors. He then flicks his wand and hurls fire magic at the impertinent assassin.
Firebolt vs Assassin: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Damage (F): 2d10 ⇒ (3, 1) = 4 Half damage on a miss

"It matters not what the Scarlet Order suffers," Belwick says, changing direction to instead get closer to the lone assassin. "Keoland will not suffer the Scarlet Order. You are not welcome, and here's proof."

The nobleman retrieves a bit of bat guano and sulfur from a pouch, speaking words of magic that far date back in the annals of wizardry, and hurls yet another fireball.
Fireball, DC 16 Dex save: 8d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 6, 3, 3, 2, 6, 2) = 26

"Find the assassin and crush his skull," Belwick commands, and the elemental spirit moves to comply.

Assuming that I've burned away the cover, the elemental will move and attack. If not, it'll move to where the assassin was last spotted and look for them.
Slam 1 vs Assassin: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Slam 2 vs Assassin: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11

Belwick moves closer to the tangled up prisoner, all while keeping an eye out for the scout captain in melee with his summoned elemental spirit.

He waves his wand through familiar gestures, and with an imperious pointing releases a bolt of flame at the scout captain.
Firebolt vs Scout Captain: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14
Damage (F): 2d10 ⇒ (9, 9) = 18

The elemental continues its assault as well, hammering at them with earthen fists.
Slam vs Scout Captain: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12
Slam vs Scout Captain: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Confident that Venn can keep the runner from running, Belwick lends aid to Baghotir and Caelius.

"You can all still surrender," Belwick reiterates, not really expecting the Suel fanatics to do so. He strides out from the tree cover, making his presence known. His hands move through the complex arcane gestures necessary to perform a conjuration spell, which he caps off with a whispered word.

A primordial earth spirit made of mud and gravel appears behind the furthest foe. Belwick issues a command. "Club these invaders to death unless they surrender."

The spirit complies, earthen fists swinging.
Slam 1: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Slam 2: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Damage (B): 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

With the obvious Suel tattoos revealing the nature of their foe, Belwick wastes no time to hurl a ball of magical burning flame at the center of their foes.
Fireball, DC 16 Dex: 8d6 ⇒ (4, 6, 3, 5, 1, 5, 2, 3) = 29
Area marked on the map

"There is no running, only surrender! Lay down your arms or die!"

Belwick will strongly encourage at least an attempt at stealth, as the point of this foray is to ambush them and not scare them away. "Follow Venn's lead if you can. We need them unaware, and should take every possible advantage available to us."

He will cast a spell that conjures a suit of magical breastplate, and will rest when he can and hide when he's on watch.

With several days available before the group sets out to intercept the rendez-vous, Belwick decides the best preparations he can make are ones that improve his quality of life.

He asks Helga, the herbalist that tends to his garden, to see about harvesting the ingredients needed for a simple curative potion, then takes an afternoon to discuss devils, magic brands, and commitments He leaves the man with the task of finding more about the kind of devil Bayleaf is.
Can we take a Bastion? I'd like to issue the Harvest (potion of healing) and Research (Bayleaf as a devil) commands.

The evenings, and indeed most days, the nobleman spends with Iliza when she's free. Dinner and drinks, walks/swims along the beach, quiet nights stargazing, and whatever experiences she ropes him into. Knowing that he's once more going into danger Belwick wants to make the most of their time together.

Knowing that it takes power to stay someone's trial, and it takes evidence to overturn a conviction, Belwick leans in to help Caelius by taking a different approach.

He speaks with the new Captain Fireborn, Lemunda.

"I was hoping that I could first see how well you're adjusting to the new role. It's no doubt feeling like a big responsibility, stepping into your father's shoes. And I want to help."

"As you know, the Brotherhood is good at pulling strings and making things seem different than they actually are. I don't like it, and I'm sure neither do you. People have died because of all the misdirection, including your father. And I have a sneaking suspicion about these sailors. Do you think I could get a few moments to speak with them? Ask them a few questions? I'd like to follow up on things before they're shipped off to prison. Can that be arranged?"
Persuasion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19

When the group gets back together and shares what they've learned, Belwick notes that there's still much work to be done. "I can't help but feel that these three fishers are possibly innocent. We've seen others be set up to take the fall for something, and I'm inclined to believe them. We should consider questioning them to learn the truth."

"At the same time, hearing that there's a dockworker that might be tied to the Brotherhood... that seems convenient. After all, a dockworker would be to perfect person to place crates with Sea Prince heraldry on the boats of sailors. Ottmar should be spoken to, though I'd expect him to be dangerous. But he might know more of the other two."

Belwick takes a deep breath. "And then there's the Lord Mayor. Hearing that he's ill is one thing, but I would like to see if there's not something that can be done. We've seen the Brotherhood use poisons before. I would like to know more about Patience, and I'd like to see Erolin with my own eyes."

Deciding that his position warrants an audience, Belwick seeks out an audience with the man he should have spoken to upon his arrival in Saltmarsh: Lord Major Erolin Timerkitos.

But first, he speaks with Issac. "What can you tell me of the mayor? When did he become so isolationist? What of the staff who work for him? How is he supplied?"

Belwick plans to take a day or two to know more about the mayor, his history, past works for the town, and what his current state of affairs is. All in preparation for him to speak with the man himself.
Investigation?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25 If Persuasion makes more sense, add +1

Belwick knows that it'll take the strength of the rest of the council to get Anders to stand down, the nobleman decides to plead his case with Eda Oweland. He focuses on Eda because, in his mind, her voice is loudest and she'll be the most challenging one to sway.

He asks Iliza to join him in entreating with the councilwoman, figuring that having a representative of the merfolk with a vested interest in the safety of the region can't help. Plus, it's an excuse to spend more time with her.

His goal, ultimately, is to persuade Eda that Anders' actions are well-intentioned but reckless. He calls upon her wisdom to help steer the rest of the council and be a voice for peace.
Persuasion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Hell no. Using Heroic Inspiration
Persuasion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23

"Indeed, who knows what they will ask," Belwick says, face still parchment white. "Obviously, I was under the, now mistaken, impression that I was dealing with a man. We all knew Bayleaf. But none knew this."

He sees Baghotir return with drinks and tries to shake off the shock. He's only marginally successful. "Outside of learning that Bayleaf is not what he appears, we learned that the Scarlet Brotherhood has been truly beaten here, with their leadership stopped with the death of Skerrin. But we still need to stop Anders from starting a war, and I'd like to speak with Eda Oweland and the other council members to see what influence they can have. Because war with the Sea Princes is what our enemy wants. So I propose we do that next."

Belwick stares for along time at where Bayleaf was, his face drained of all colour. "I have made a terrible mistake, haven't I?"

He gulps, then takes a moment to study the sigil seemingly burned into his palm.
Arcana/Religion?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

"So... with Anders Solmor in the position he's in, pushing for war, the Scarlet Brotherhood are on the cusp of a win. Even with Skerrin removed from the playing board. This is not good. He needs to understand this. He needs to stop."

Belwick takes a sip from his own glass of wine. He grimaces, though whether it's because of the drink's vintage or the situation is hard to tell. "Bayleaf, the story you have woven makes sense and seems similar to what we know. Information that, for us, was hard fought. So I must ask: how did you come by this information?"

"What you are saying is that Anders Solmor isn't in league with them, but is instead an unfortunate victim who is playing into their hands once more."

"Is the Brotherhood currently manipulating any of the non human groups in the region?"

"Are there any allies of the Sea Princes that would stand against the Scarlet Brotherhood and would want to see them defeated?"

"First, we'll need to establish that you are as caught up as we are. Because, though I trust you know what you say you know, our deal is obviously off if you don't know more than we do."

He launches into his questions, asking the following:
1. Who is the leader of the Scarlet Brotherhood here in Saltmarsh?
2. Who else is in league with them, and are any of them leaders of the Saltmarsh council?
3. What are their numbers in Saltmarsh?
4. Have they infiltrated the Sea Princes, and to what extent?
5. What is their presence amongst the most recent allies to Saltmarsh? Specifically, the merfolk, lizardfolk, sea elves, locathah, etc.
6. Where are the leaders of the Brotherhood outside of Saltmarsh?
6. What are the Brotherhood's goals in Saltmarsh, and in southern Keoland?
7. What, in your view, is the best path to remove their cancer from Keoland?

"Whatever is in my power, and that won't betray my country or its people. As a noble and a wizard of some skill, this is no small thing."

Belwick takes in all the bits of news, considering it in varying degrees of 'interesting'. Lizardfolk, pirate hunters, dead animals, and a cleric of Procan... all sound like work that he's not sure he can juggle.

When Bayleaf brings up The Scarlet Order, he sighs. "I've paid you handsomely before for information regarding them. I have a sneaking suspicion that this time around you'd be looking for more. I'm willing to hear your price, but I probably do you one better: I could owe you a favour, to be called upon at a future date. What say you?"

Belwick is all smiles as he once more meets Bayleaf. "It's good to see you again, my friend. Hale and hearty, and still plying your trade as a minstrel I see?"

The baron extends a hand to shake with Bayleaf, then takes a seat. He exchanges pleasantries before getting to the point "I had heard that you were looking to meet with me. It's good fortune then that I was hoping to see you. But please, you first: what news?"

"Our first step, I think, is to speak with the members of the Saltmarsh council. Starting with those who are most likely going to want to speak with us. Eda Oweland, I think. Alas, this means leaving the most important, Anders Solmor, last," Belwick sighs, his voice full or regret. "I do wish we had not alienated Solmor with unprovable accusations. It's very possible the man was fully hoodwinked by the Brotherhood. Still, we need him to stop his warmongering."

"But before we go see Eda, I need to speak with Bayleaf. You are all welocme to join me if you like."

"You can always turn yourself into a fish and we'll live with my parents."

"Believe me, I've considered it," Belwick rubs at his temples in an attempt to ward off a headache. "It would be so much simpler."

"As for what I'm going to do, I think I know. Talking with you has helped me see the path I needed to find. We need to make peace with the Sea Princes. Help them even to remove the Brotherhood menace. I need to convince the Saltmarsh council, in particular, Anders, to not go to war. And I think we might need to speak with Prince Monmurg and the other princes. Under a banner of diplomacy, with an offer to help root out the Scarlet infection."

Once finished his meal with Iliza, he will gather the group to convey his thinking.

"Their goal is one of domination and racial purity," Belwick says, taking a small bite of fish with a fork. "They want everyone to be Suel and are comfortable playing the long game. I would not want to play them at dragonchess. But for Saltmarsh it's been to use the Sea Princes to weaken Keoland enough to annex the southern region. If we're disorganized, they will take advantage of that. They won't stop at Saltmarsh. The merfolk and all of Saltmarsh's allies would eventually become targets."

He picks up a piece of bread, butters it with a knife, and continues. "We need to ensure that Keoland does not go to war with the Sea Princes. That will weaken both sides, making them vulnerable to infiltration by the Brotherhood. It's strange to think it, but... I think we need to help those pirates to defeat the Scarlet Brotherhood within their ranks. I think I will need to advise the council to this effect."

"Now, anything I can do to help with the issue of your property? Else I should probably go and see Bayleaf."

"I worry about the town, and the vigilance that is required to keep the Brotherhood at bay. The job is not complete, though I agree that they have gone to ground for a time. Knowing that their goal was to destabilize things here, I think it would of critical to ensure that the people in positions of influence are capable of dealing with this threat. And are not themselves compromised."

Belwick considers the subject of departure for the Barrier Peaks. "I am loathe to run off, but equally I'm unsure what more we can do for now. Unless... can we test the members of the Saltmarsh council with the same truth-telling magic? If only to verify whether they are members of the Scarlet Brotherhood or in league with the Sea Princes? It would set my mind at ease before we depart."

"Being sequestered like this is the true hindrance to this investigation. This infestation. One the king has concerned himself with by sending me. And I can tell you it is an infestation, as I think the reason Lady Solmor is dead is because of Skerrin Wavechaser and the Scarlet Brotherhood."

Belwick, with his more lax security, works with Iliza when she visits to set various efforts in motion.
- He writes up a series of questions to be used in the questioning process for Captain Fireborn to ask the Maid. In it he outlines everything he knows about
- He writes a second letter suggesting that the new Captain Fireborn have the wine inspected at Ingo the Drover's home. It was poisoned, which is what killed Ingo. And it will likely match any poison in the possession of Skerrin Wavechaser... poison that was used on several members of our party, though hastily executed and not lethal in our case.
- He asks Iliza to speak with Isaac, looking for him to get in contact with Bayleaf and have him come to Belwick's townhouse. Ostensibly so that he can have another set of feet collecting information, but also so that he can be a witness (and maybe spill the information on how he got the bloody ring)
- He preps Elmo to be called as an expert on the Sea Princes, perhaps even sharing what he's seen of their internal conflict and the source behind it
- He asks Iliza to speak with Captain Xendros, giving her 10 platinum pieces and asking her to pass on the message that if she wants adventurers to go to the Barrier Peaks that she should bring what she knows of Ingo's death to Captain Fireborn.
- Belwick will also petition to have the various bodies of the guards kept and request that Baghotir be allowed to commune with his god to perform Speak with Dead on the bodies. To ask them all probing questions in front of Anders Solmor and Lemunda Fireborn at the very least.
- Finally, he writes up a pack of letters asking for several people of note to be character witnesses for him: Queen Othokent (or at least Minister Sauriv) of the Lizardfolk, Gilead of the Locathah, Lord Sir Gatren (yes, really) or his aide Fitzrin Dellaroe, Prince Oliveay (unlikely, but I gotta try), and his brother-in-law Aubreck.

Persuasion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26

Belwick puts on a smile. Doing such a brazen thing as speaking into the King Skotti "I can confirm that the King of Keoland has heard my message. The Brotherhood is real, is here, and has been exposed."

He hands over his pack to Captain Lemunda. Voice quiet he says, "The king demands that we do what is necessary to protect our homeland. I am putting my faith in you, Captain. Don't let me down."

Satisfied that the maid is well in hand, Belwick smiles to Lemunda. "I will put my items in safekeeping, understanding full well that the crown should be made aware of the situation."

He removes his backpack, then retrieves a scroll from it. "I will save us all the hassle of writing a missive to the king. He should hear what's gone on first-hand."

Belwick recites the words from the Scroll of Sending and speaks his message to the King of Keoland, a man he has met and was entrusted with this mission. His voice is clear. "Milord, it is Belwick. The Scarlet Brotherhood are in Saltmarsh. I have dealt them a blow. But now I am being arrested by Anders Solmor."

"Wait! Before we go... Baghotir, can you beseech Moradin to speak with dead? Lord Solmor should hear the truth, and I question whether he'll believe it from us."