Connects to: 20.16, 22.16, 25.17 and 26.20.
A levee raised before the first Duke’s reign keeps the Crystal Water navigable as it meanders along Thring’s swampy eastern frontier. Last year, this section suffered a catastrophic break. A surge of foul swamp water poured into the river, transforming the channel into a morass. Many barges and boats become trapped among sandbars or debris as they navigate the lethargic waters. Too often, those who cannot free themselves by nightfall become victims of swamp beasts. Trade with the August City (26.20) has suffered.
The Duke is convinced that the levee’s break was sabotage, and offers a title to anyone who can bring the responsible parties to him in chains. Many wrecked boats dot the marshy landscape here. Opportunistic locals and adventurers strip these wrecks of valuable goods. Bandits, including Red-Feathers and his gang of crowfolk (20.16), have begun lurking along treacherous stretches water to prey on trapped barges.
Connections:
- Those attempting to repair the levee have been harried by witch-hounds (22.16) and waylaid by Dungers (25.17).
Hooks
- Who built the levee?
- Why did the levee break?
- What swamp beasts prey on stranded boats?
- Which title is the Duke offering in exchange for the saboteurs? Why is he so convinced someone is behind the breakage of an ancient earthwork between a swamp and a river?
- What treasures do the wrecked boats carry?
