Benedict is deeply disturbed by the theft of the book, not only because of its value, but because it happened under his watch. As Eliander’s trusted valet and keeper of the household, he takes the matter personally—his pride wounded by the breach. Though composed, his sharp eyes miss nothing, and he quietly urges the players to investigate, offering what little he’s noticed: the scent of foreign pipe smoke, a disturbed rug, a faint scuff near the library case. “Someone knew exactly what they were after,” he says grimly, “and they were no common thief.”

• The theft was deliberate—someone knew exactly what they were looking for and how to get it without leaving a trace.

• Only someone with inside knowledge or careful observation could have bypassed the house's routines and security.

• He suspects Skerrin Wavechaser, his longtime friendly rival, may know more than he lets on—and perhaps isn’t as harmless as he pretends.

• Polite but firm, Benedict treats the party with measured respect, watching them closely for signs of discretion or impropriety.

• Provides subtle guidance, offering small clues and observations he’s gathered, but expects the party to piece things together themselves.

• Earns trust gradually, opening up more as the party proves themselves reliable—eventually treating them as valued allies within the household.

Benedict wants the stolen book returned swiftly and discreetly, not only to restore order to the household, but to protect Eliander’s reputation and legacy. He values loyalty, discipline, and quiet efficiency—qualities he hopes the party will demonstrate. Above all, Benedict wants to uncover who breached the sanctity of the manor, and why. Though he won’t say it aloud, he fears this theft is part of something larger—and he’s determined to stop it before it reaches Eliander or the council.

Eliander’s response to the missing tome is one of quiet intensity. Though outwardly composed, he is deeply unsettled by the breach. He views the theft not just as a loss of knowledge, but as a potential threat to Saltmarsh. He entrusts the party with the investigation, believing the council must not know—yet. “If someone is willing to steal from this house,” he says, “they may already be closer to the truth than we are.”

• The theft was intentional and targeted—only someone with knowledge of the book’s significance would have taken it.

• The missing tome poses a danger, as it may contain clues that could lead to forbidden relics, political unrest, or worse.

• The thief is likely someone within Saltmarsh—possibly even connected to the council or harbor, making this a matter that demands discretion.

• Direct and serious, Eliander speaks to the party as professionals, expecting competence and discretion above all else.

• Shares critical information only when necessary, keeping much to himself unless the party earns his full trust.

• Offers resources and support, such as access to his library or connections in town, but expects results in return.

Eliander wants the tome recovered quietly and without drawing attention—especially from the town council. He believes the fewer people who know, the better, fearing political exploitation or public panic if word spreads. He urges the party to work swiftly, follow the evidence, and bring back the book before whoever stole it can use its contents for something far worse.

Skerrin Wavechaser feigns polite surprise upon hearing of the missing tome, masking any deeper reaction behind his usual composed demeanor. He offers shallow sympathy and expresses mild concern for Benedict’s distress, but quickly shifts the topic when pressed. Beneath his courteous exterior, Skerrin is calculating; the theft represents both an opportunity and a warning. He knows more than he lets on and carefully watches how others respond, subtly probing for what the party knows. To him, the missing book is just one move in a larger game—one he intends to win.

Skerrin Wavechaser doesn’t know who took the tome—but that only makes the situation more entertaining. He suspects one of the usual players—Gellan, Xendros, Keledek, or the mysterious visiting priest—and he delights in the opportunity to stir the pot. Skerrin finds it particularly amusing that Benedict would even suggest his involvement, considering their long-standing “gentleman’s rivalry.” While maintaining his polished demeanor, Skerrin subtly fans the flames of suspicion, whispering half-truths and redirecting blame with a knowing smirk. For him, the missing book is less a mystery and more a chance to weave chaos, undermine trust, and watch the pieces shift in his favor.

• Gellan Primewater – “A man obsessed with profit and secrets? He probably dropped the book in the bay himself while chasing rumors of sunken wine casks.”

• Captain Xendros – “She’s always poking around relics better left buried. I wouldn’t be surprised if the book burned up in some infernal offering.”

• Keledek the Unspoken – “He likely summoned something to read it for him—though I imagine the elemental got bored and walked off with it.”

• Jander Caudron – “That pious little whisperer? Oh, he reeks of borrowed robes and false prayers. If he didn't steal it, he’s praying over whoever did.”

• Charming but evasive, Skerrin engages the party with wit and polished manners, offering just enough information to stay helpful—without ever being truly clear.

• Enjoys subtle manipulation, planting doubts and half-truths to mislead or amuse himself, all while maintaining the air of a loyal servant.

• Pushes the party toward conflict, gently encouraging suspicion between factions or suggesting lines of inquiry that serve his hidden agenda.

Skerrin wants the investigation to drag out as long as possible, sowing confusion and mistrust at every turn. He finds delight in watching Benedict squirm with embarrassment, and hopes the scandal will reflect poorly on Eliander and the Loyalists. If the Traditionalists catch wind of the theft, all the better—Skerrin intends to fan the flames of factional tension, positioning the incident as a Loyalist failure. His ultimate goal is to destabilize the council, weaken Eliander’s influence, and quietly maneuver Anders Solmor into a position of greater power, where Skerrin can pull the strings from behind the curtain.