Goals: Maintain stability in Saltmarsh while ensuring the town remains independent from excessive Crown oversight.

Response to the Party: Concerned about the theft but prefer to resolve it quietly, avoiding unnecessary tension between Manistrad, the miners, and the town. If the culprit is local, they will push for leniency to prevent the issue from escalating.

Goals: Maintain order, protect Saltmarsh’s reputation, and reinforce the mining operation’s success for Keoland’s benefit.

Response to the Party: Want the cask recovered quickly and discreetly to prevent embarrassment for Manistrad and the Crown. If foul play is involved, they will support punishing the responsible party to set an example.

Goals: Exploit division within Saltmarsh to weaken both Loyalist and Traditionalist influence.

Response to the Party: Encourage escalation and blame-shifting, trying to pit Manistrad against the town to deepen tensions. They may offer false leads or bribes to push the investigation in a direction that benefits them.

Goals: Protect their smuggling network and undermine Keoish authority in Saltmarsh.

Response to the Party: If the cask was taken by smugglers, they will try to buy time or bribe the party to cover it up. If the investigation threatens their operations, they may use intimidation or misdirection to keep the party off their trail.