Tales from the Forgotten Realms: Tarakhin Grimscale

Chapter 8: Onto the Next

As the trio approached Phandalin, they couldn't help but feel relieved to be back in civilization. The bustling town was a stark contrast to the quiet forests they had just left behind. Tarakhin noticed the townsfolk eyeing him warily, but he kept his head held high and continued on with his companions.

As they entered the town centre, they suddenly bumped into a stout man with a stern expression on his face. Gundren immediately recognized him as the mayor of Phandalin.

Gundren turned to Tarakhin and Oneshoe. "That is mayor Vanderbilt. If ever there were a man to impress in this town, then this is it."

"Gundren!" the mayor exclaimed, "I'm so glad to see you alive and well. But where is your brother?"

Gundren's face fell as he informed the mayor of his brother's unfortunate demise. The mayor's expression softened as he offered his condolences.

"I'm truly sorry for your loss," mayor Vanderbilt said, "Your brother was a valued member of our community. What brings you back to Phandalin?"

Gundren explained their mission to deliver the supplies to Neverwinter and their detour to due to the goblins. He then turned to Tarakhin and Oneshoe, and spoke highly of their bravery and skill in battle.

"These two saved my life, Mayor," Gundren said. "They're good people and deserve recognition for their bravery."

The mayor nodded, clearly impressed. "Very well then. I may have a task for you all. It seems that some unsavoury characters have been causing trouble in the area, and I need someone to deal with them. If you're up for it, I could use your help."

Tarakhin and Oneshoe exchanged a look and nodded in agreement. They were ready for whatever challenge the mayor had in store for them. "Can you tell us a bit more?" asked Oneshoe.

"Sure," said the mayor, "You see, we've had some trouble with a group of bandits who have been causing a lot of trouble for the locals. They've been robbing caravans and merchants who pass through town, and I'm afraid they've been getting bolder with each passing day."

Tarakhin and Oneshoe exchanged a look. This sounded like a job they could handle.

"We're willing to help," Tarakhin said.

The mayor smiled. "I thought you might be. I can offer you a reward of 100 gold pieces each for dealing with these bandits, and I'm sure the people of Phandalin would be grateful for your help."

Tarakhin and Oneshoe nodded in agreement.

"We'll take care of it," Oneshoe said.

"Excellent," the mayor said. "I'll have one of my guards escort you out of town tomorrow to point you in the right direction. Good luck, and be careful out there."

With that, Gundren returned home, and Tarakhin and Oneshoe set off separately to prepare for their new quest, agreeing to meet in the tavern at the end of the day. They knew it wouldn't be easy, goblins were one thing, but humans could be a lot more clever. Regardless, they were ready for the challenge. They stocked up on supplies, sharpened their weapons, and Tarakhin bought new boots.

As the sun began to set over Phandalin, Tarakhin and Oneshoe found themselves in the local tavern, The Creaky Cauldron. The two adventurers had been on the road for days and were looking forward to a night of relaxation and ale.

As they entered the tavern, they noticed it was already packed with locals, miners, and travellers. The noise level was high, and the air was thick with the smell of alcohol and sweat.

Oneshoe quickly found a corner table for the two of them, and they ordered a few rounds of ale. Tarakhin, who was not known for his patience, started to get restless as they waited for their drinks.