Sunday, November 2, 2025

Berty and Bart (journal entries)

Some of the following scraps were recovered during the team's encounter with Berty and Bart in the southern woods during a trip to recover religious icons.  During an encounter with a large spider, Bart set off numerous explosives, which appear to have led to the pair's demise.

The first 4 of these notes were signed with the letter B, each written with an overdone flourish, obviously referencing the authors who took the time to add their name and self-proclaimed title to the introductory line of every note they wrote.  The final note appeared to be in a different handwriting altogether, and was unsigned.
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1-1
Tis I, Berty, world renowned thief.

This starfall job has turned out to be more profitable than expected.  Bart’s explosives are always appreciated, and they tend to make the work in the mines a right cinch.  Wherever the Eye needs to go, we’ll go.  Keep us in the loop, and we’ll get the men you need.

1-2
Tis I, Berty, world renowned thief.

There has been some interference with the starfall job, but I think it’s nothing we can’t handle.  The Sunderguard in the Greypeak Settlement think they have some obligation to interfere with everything around here.  Your men are helping us keep tabs on things, but if it gets out of hand, I’ll be sure to send word.

1-3
Tis I, Berty, world renowned thief.

I’ve asked Bart to get the supplies to the main halls.  There have been Sunderguard patrols by the split oak, so the upcoming shipment may be delayed.  The upcoming meeting at the new moon may be a problem, but he seems to think he has a plan for dealing with them.

1-4
Tis I, Bart, Berty’s first apprentice.

I’ve set a surprise for any patrols or travelers that find the entrance under that magical split oak.  It won’t matter to you, obviously, but anyone without a careful step will find themselves in pieces before long.

1-5
Continue to assess those you find, although I doubt there will be many.  Any who show recognition at the mention of Waterdeep should be brought to me for further questioning.  I will be at the Starfall Outpost location during the new moon.  Bring any potential candidates with you.

Do not trust the afflicted.  Anyone who does not know Waterdeep or who only knows Coral’s Edge should be considered an enemy.  Use your best judgement to determine other tests for discovering unafflicted.