Location Type:
Village
Specific Location:
2 Samuel 14 – A small village outside of Jerusalem, where Absalom returns after his exile.
Main Quest:
Investigate the tension between the villagers surrounding Absalom’s return, uncovering potential secrets and gathering resources that may aid in a growing conflict.
LOCATION SUMMARY
The village, nestled in a fertile valley, is marked by its well-trodden paths and stone houses with thatched roofs. A few olive and fig trees provide shade, while a communal well stands at the center. Villagers whisper about the royal family’s strife, and the atmosphere is tinged with unease regarding Absalom’s return from exile. Cautious glances are exchanged, fearing the potential for unrest.
BASE LOOT
- 1. An earthenware jug, cracked but still usable for storing water.
- 2. A woven basket containing a few dried figs, a staple food item.
- 3. A wooden staff, carved with simple designs, usable for walking or support in the fields.
- 4. A set of iron cooking tools, including a spatula and a ladle, left behind in a communal cooking area.
- 5. A handful of seeds from local crops, useful for planting in the village gardens.
ADDITIONAL LOOT IF 6+
- 1. A hidden pouch containing copper coins, a small fortune to a villager.
- 2. A frayed cloak hanging on a peg, which bears the insignia of the house of David.
- 3. A simple leather pouch filled with herbs used for soothing ailments in the village.
- 4. A small wooden figurine carved in the likeness of a well-known leader, possibly inciting some local lore.
ADDITIONAL LOOT IF 10+
- 1. A tattered scroll tucked in a loose stone in the wall, containing old laws regarding property disputes.
- 2. A handful of exceptional olives gathered in a hidden corner of the communal grove, prized for their oil.
- 3. A minor clue related to Absalom’s supporters, written in a local dialect on a piece of parchment.
ADDITIONAL LOOT IF 15+
- 1. A fine woolen blanket stored in a loft, likely stolen from a traveler.
- 2. A metal box buried beneath the well, containing old debts owed to the village.
ADDITIONAL LOOT IF 20+
- 1. A concealed chamber beneath the village square holding forgotten offerings meant for the temple.
ADDITIONAL LOOT IF 22+
- 1. An ancient tablet embedded in the earth, containing an account of a significant event during Absalom’s time.
- 2. Hidden within the roots of a nearby fig tree, a small shrine with votive offerings, indicating recent worship.
LOWER WISDOM DISCOVERY
Passive Wisdom 12 – A villager recounts tales of Absalom’s charm and charisma, hinting at his influence among the youth of the village.
HIGHER WISDOM DISCOVERY
Passive Wisdom 16 – Observant characters might notice subtle changes in body language among villagers when discussing Absalom, indicating fear or loyalty.
OPTIONAL EVENT
While searching the village, players may encounter a distraught villager whose son has gone missing. They offer to trade information about Absalom for help in locating him, leading to a moral dilemma regarding family loyalty versus political intrigue.
