ATCL01 Oakendust wagons leave Arncastle
The date in Cerwyn calendar is 337 - Brth - Festival - Eldrimar (337 - 2 - 1 - 9 - 89). The conditions are looking very favourable on this fine Brth morning, with no cloud, therefore no rain, and just a light breeze.
The courtyard cockrels woke everyone up early, porridge was served to all, and while the suns are still just rising, everyone immediately went to work.
The scene in the courtyard of the Oakendust's Emporium is bustling with activity as Elder Oakendust organises the final arrangements for the consortium of wagons preparing to depart Arncastle. The emporium itself is a grand, weathered building, adorned with intricate carvings of oak leaves and branches, signifying its long-standing presence in the community. The air is filled with the scent of fresh timber and the earthy aroma of goods being packed.
In the courtyard, a mix of wagons stand ready, each uniquely decorated with vibrant colors and symbols representing the diverse merchants joining the journey. The wagons are laden with a variety of goods: barrels of fine ale, crates of exotic spices, bolts of luxurious fabrics, and an array of handcrafted items. Merchants and their assistants bustle about, securing their cargo and ensuring everything is in order for the long journey ahead.
Elder Oakendust, the figure of wisdom and authority, stands at the center of the activity, his presence commanding respect. He is a tall, robust man with a long, flowing beard and a cloak made from the finest wool, embroidered with oak motifs. His sharp eyes survey the scene, ensuring every detail is attended to. He offers guidance to the merchants, his deep voice cutting through the noise as he issues final instructions.
Before the wagons set out, Elder seeks out Suilven for a final conversation.
"Suilven, as the experienced and trusted wagon master that Guirnold assures me you are, I am placing my authority in your hands to make any necessary decisions during our journey. This letter confers that authority upon you," he says, handing over a folded parchment bearing his personal seal. "Additionally, I entrust you with my funds. Use these to cover your services and any board and lodgings required. The wagon teams and passengers are responsible for their own expenses, but they have already been reimbursed to ensure you are fed and watered on the road."
He hands over a large pouch of coins. "There are 50 gold pieces in all. Boris Thorne has a secret compartment in his wagon where he can safeguard this for you. Have him secure it before you leave, or the pickpockets will have it gone before you exit the city walls."
Elder pauses, then adds, "Journey well to the League!"
Surrounding the emporium, the streets of Arncastle are alive with townsfolk who have gathered to witness the departure. Children dart between the wagons, their eyes wide with excitement, while adults engage in animated conversations, speculating about the goods and stories the merchants will bring back. Street vendors take advantage of the crowd, selling snacks and refreshments to the spectators.
As the suns finally begin to rise, casting a warm hue over the scene, the atmosphere is filled with a mix of anticipation and camaraderie. The consortium of wagons, now in perfect formation, prepares to roll out, their journey to The City League about to begin. The sound of horses’ hooves and the creaking of wagon wheels fill the air as the caravan sets off, the merchants waving farewell to the cheering crowd. Elder Oakendust watches with a satisfied smile, knowing that this joint venture will strengthen the bonds between the villages and towns along their route, bringing prosperity and unity to all.
This wagon train consist of 9 wagons, each with a driver and assistant, and usually at least one paying passenger. There are 2 other helpers, hired by Oakendust to provide assistance and security. These two are Asus, an Elven ranger, newly travelled from Yuiellevan, seeking to venture to The City League and Suilven, a Dwarven backstepper (an experienced and proven wagon handler) from Mørkheim, who also has excellent combat skills. Both of these individuals are late replacements for the the Farrow twins, Liora and Lysan Farrow, who fell ill from a bout of dysentery.
Grey's ale wagon: finest Arncastle ale and beer
Bell's fabrics wagon: wool and woven cloths
Hark's green-grocery wagon: fresh fruit and vegetables
Frost's herbs wagon: honey, beeswax candles and medicinal herbs
Thorne's lumber wagon: lumber and carpentry tools
Moor's pottery wagon: pottery and ceramics
Green's bakery wagon: breads and pastries
Blackwood's leathersmith wagon: leather goods
Rivers' spice wagon: exotic spices, teas and dried fruits
Quick View
Wagons and Personnel
As the merchants travel from Arncastle to the City League, stopping off at villages and towns along the way, they will trade some of their produce and exchange goods. By engaging in trade along the route, these merchants can ensure they have a steady flow of goods to sell and exchange, adapting their inventories to meet the demands of each village and maximizing their profits by the time they reach the City League.
Key Points for Village Sales
Fresh Produce: Fruits, vegetables, and baked goods would sell quickly, especially in villages with limited agricultural output.
Crafts and Textiles: Wool, cloth, and leather goods are essential for daily life and would be in high demand for making and repairing clothes.
Health and Wellness: Honey, medicinal herbs, and spices are valued for their health benefits and culinary uses.
Construction Materials: Lumber and carpentry tools are essential for building and maintaining homes and structures.
Household Goods: Pottery, candles, and decorative ceramics are always needed for household use and beautification.
Which wagon are the two characters travelling on, or are they walking along side?
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