Goals: Maintain Saltmarsh’s independence and keep outside threats—whether political or supernatural—from bringing chaos to the region. They value the town’s survival and reputation over Crown interests.

Response to the Party: Traditionalists are worried about the implications of what’s happening in the Drowned Forest but are reluctant to act unless it directly threatens Saltmarsh. If the party uncovers signs of Abyssal corruption or demonic influence, they’ll push for secrecy and minimal Crown involvement. Some may even suggest ignoring the threat until it becomes unavoidable.

Goals: Preserve order, protect the mining operation, and suppress anything that could discredit the Crown’s investment or destabilize the region.

Response to the Party: Loyalists want the problem contained quickly and quietly. If the Abyssal portal proves real, they’ll support the party in shutting it down—but will insist that no one outside the mission learns about it. Manistrad, in particular, may offer extra resources or rewards for discretion and efficiency. They are not interested in myths—only results.

Goals: Sow distrust between the factions of Saltmarsh, exploit weaknesses, and manipulate events to destabilize the region for future takeover.

Response to the Party: If they catch wind of the portal or cult remnants, they may feed the party false information, hoping to either get them killed or to frame another faction. They’ll spread rumors that Manistrad or the dwarves are hiding something dangerous (which may be true) and encourage infighting. In extreme cases, they may attempt to infiltrate or reactivate the cult.

Goals: Maintain their smuggling routes and weaken Keoish control of Saltmarsh by discrediting the Loyalists and creating chaos where possible.

Response to the Party: If the Drowned Forest threatens to draw military attention or block a smuggling trail, the Princes will try to mislead or bribe the party into abandoning the investigation. If the portal becomes widely known, they may attempt to exploit it for their own gain, perhaps even forming an uneasy alliance with demonic forces to further undermine Saltmarsh.