Investigator Drolmer [ Mercenary Upgrade Quest ]  

Uploaded June 11th, 2022 by Drewinette

You say, 'Hail, Investigator Drolmer'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'Oh, thank Veeshan you're here, _____! And my, my, do you look like a sturdy soul! Such a firm handshake! You must have an untiring grip of both blade and staff, and an equal grip upon your wits... I could use someone [like you].'

You say, 'like you'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'No, no, take no offense! You are undoubtedly of heroic stock! I have had such trouble hiring good help lately -- curse those weak-witted mercenaries! -- and now my investigators are all the [poorer] for it.'

You say, 'poorer'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'Surely you've heard of the strange occurrences and apparitions manifesting in this swamp? Disturbing dreams and visions have floated from here all the way to Crescent Reach. Do you think the Council is ignorant of such metaphysical peculiarities? You're partially right -- and that's why my investigators render their [services].'

You say, 'services'

Investigator Drolmer clasps his hands. 'For the nominal fee of initial investigation costs plus small additional charges for each phantasmal dispensation, we grant the Council peace of mind and pleasant dreams. Although it is customary for us to dispatch our duties with the utmost swiftness and professionalism, we have encountered some... [difficulties].' Investigator Drolmer wipes his brow and glances about nervously.

You say, 'difficulties'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'I kept watch over this monument. Someone must always think of the valuables! My team, though, I sent into the depths of the swamp, following the trail of Elgron's dreams. He's always had his head planted firmly in the other world, so he's our guide. While I tallied the funds provided by the Council to defray our expenses, I looked after the village. I did my part admirably, but on the third day here, one of our hired [mercenaries] came running out of the swamp, his eyes filled with madness!'

You say, 'mercenaries'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'Yes, not all that would do us harm consists of energy and ether. Perhaps you have seen the size of the snakes here? We provide the brains, and the mercenaries provide the brawn, I always say. But anyhow, this mercenary ran to me and babbled in his bumbling speech about the 'bad dreams' that came to life. Apparently our forward camp has been abandoned, and the mercenary was the [only one] to make it back here.'

You say, 'only one'

Investigator Drolmer says, 'Well, I have heard Investigator Vekman's shouts echoing from over the ridge... but I have had no escort since the last brute abandoned me and ran back to Oggok. Now you, someone with an obvious abundance of both strength and intelligence, would be a fine aid to us in our time of need. Will you [help]? There will, of course, be compensation. The Council is never stingy with us, so you will be justly rewarded!'