bring blorbo the shrewd 25 hobgoblin hides

Okay, so you’ve received the quest. You’ve heard the rumors. You know that somewhere out there, Blorbo the Shrewd, a figure whispered about in taverns and back alleys, needs precisely 25 hobgoblin hides. Maybe you’re motivated by the promise of reward, perhaps you just enjoy the thrill of the hunt (and the subsequent tanning process), or maybe you’re just plain curious. Whatever the reason, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will provide you with everything you need to successfully complete this… unique… request.

Let’s break down this task, one hide at a time.

Who is Blorbo the Shrewd?

This is often the first question that arises when this quest is presented. Information regarding Blorbo is… limited. He seems to operate on the fringes of society, a shadowy figure with peculiar demands. Some believe he’s a merchant dealing in rare leathers, others suspect he’s a taxidermist with an unusual clientele. Still others claim he’s a powerful mage requiring the hides for some arcane ritual.

Unfortunately, concrete details remain elusive. What we do know is he has a reputation for meticulousness. He doesn’t accept just any hobgoblin hide. He expects quality. He expects exactly 25. And he expects them now.

Why Hobgoblin Hides?

The rationale behind Blorbo’s specific request is another enduring mystery. Hobgoblin hides aren’t particularly known for their durability, aesthetic appeal, or magical properties. They tend to be tough, coarse, and smell faintly of mildew and bad decisions.

Possible explanations include:

Availability: Hobgoblins, while not exactly cuddly, are relatively common in certain regions. This makes their hides a somewhat reliable resource.
Cost: Compared to the hides of more exotic or powerful creatures, hobgoblin hides are likely more affordable. This suggests Blorbo might be operating on a budget.
Specific Properties (Hypothetical): Perhaps Blorbo has discovered some latent property in hobgoblin hide that is currently unknown to the wider world. Maybe a specific enzyme in their skin aids in his alchemical endeavors or serves as a conduit for some obscure magical energy. This, however, is pure speculation.
Sheer Whimsy: Let’s be honest, the man is called “the Shrewd,” not “the Sane.” There’s a distinct possibility that there’s no logical reason whatsoever for his request.

Finding Hobgoblins and Acquiring Their Hides

This is where the real work begins. Hobgoblins typically dwell in caves, ruins, and other neglected locations. They are often found in small, loosely organized warbands.

Where to Look:

Ruined Forts and Outposts: These are prime real estate for squatting hobgoblins. Look for signs of recent activity, such as crude fortifications, discarded bones, and unpleasant odors.
Cave Systems: Explore any nearby caves, paying attention to the presence of tracks, scat, and the distinct guttural chattering of hobgoblins.
Forest Edges: Hobgoblins sometimes raid farms and villages along the edges of forests. These areas can be good hunting grounds, but be prepared to defend yourself against retaliatory attacks.
Mountains and Highlands: In harsher environments, hobgoblins can be found clinging to existence in remote mountain passes and highland valleys.

Preparation and Tactics:

Scouting: Before engaging a hobgoblin warband, carefully scout their location to assess their numbers, defenses, and potential escape routes.
Teamwork: If possible, work with a group. Hobgoblins can be surprisingly dangerous in numbers, and having allies to watch your back is always advantageous.
Weaponry: Choose your weapons wisely. Hobgoblins are typically vulnerable to piercing and slashing damage. Fire is also an effective deterrent.
Armor: Don’t skimp on armor. Hobgoblin weapons are often crude but surprisingly effective.
Traps: Consider setting traps to weaken or disable hobgoblins before engaging them in direct combat. Snares, pits, and even simple caltrops can be highly effective.

The Art of Hide Extraction:

Once you’ve dealt with the hobgoblins, you’ll need to extract their hides. This is not a glamorous process.

Tools: You’ll need a sharp skinning knife, a fleshing beam or similar surface, and a scraper.
Technique: Carefully cut around the hobgoblin’s legs, belly, and neck. Then, using your knife, begin separating the skin from the flesh, working your way around the body.
Fleshing: Once the hide is removed, it will be covered in flesh, fat, and other undesirable bits. Use your fleshing beam and scraper to remove these materials. This is a crucial step in preventing the hide from rotting.
Cleaning: Rinse the hide thoroughly with water to remove any remaining debris.

Preserving the Hides: A Crucial Step

Simply collecting 25 hobgoblin hides is not enough. You need to preserve them to prevent them from rotting and becoming unusable.

Salting: The most common preservation method is salting. Cover the fleshy side of the hide with a generous layer of salt. The salt will draw out moisture and inhibit bacterial growth.
Drying: After salting, stretch the hide out on a frame or hang it in a well-ventilated area. The hide must dry completely to prevent rot.
Smoking: Smoking is another effective preservation method. Hang the hide in a smokehouse or over a fire for several days. The smoke will impregnate the hide with creosote, which acts as a preservative.
Tanning (Optional): Tanning is a more advanced preservation method that involves treating the hide with tannins, typically derived from tree bark. This process makes the hide more durable and resistant to water damage. However, tanning requires specialized equipment and knowledge.

Ensuring Quality: Blorbo’s High Standards

Remember, Blorbo is “the Shrewd.” He won’t accept just any mangy hobgoblin hide. Here’s what he’ll likely be looking for:

Completeness: He’ll want hides that are largely intact, without significant tears, holes, or missing pieces.
Cleanliness: The hides must be properly fleshed and cleaned. Any remaining flesh or fat will be a major red flag.
Preservation: The hides must be properly preserved. Rotting or poorly preserved hides will be rejected.
Consistency: While not explicitly stated, it’s likely Blorbo will prefer hides that are relatively uniform in size and thickness. This suggests he’s using them for a specific purpose that requires consistency.

Delivering the Goods: Facing Blorbo Himself

So, you’ve bravely hunted, meticulously skinned, and expertly preserved 25 hobgoblin hides. You’ve carefully bundled them, strapped them to your back, and followed the cryptic directions to Blorbo’s… lair. Now comes the final test: the meeting.

Be Prepared for the Unusual: Expect the unexpected. Blorbo is not a conventional client. He might dwell in a bizarre location, surrounded by strange artifacts and arcane devices.
Be Respectful (Or At Least Civil): Even if Blorbo is eccentric or even unsettling, maintain a respectful demeanor. He’s the one with the reward.
Be Patient: Blorbo will likely subject the hides to a rigorous inspection. Don’t rush him. Allow him to examine each hide thoroughly.
Be Ready to Negotiate (Maybe): Depending on Blorbo’s disposition, you might be able to negotiate for a higher reward. However, don’t push your luck too far.
Don’t Ask Questions: Seriously. Some things are best left unanswered. Just accept the reward and be on your way.

Also Read: aiden-langston-utah

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Acquiring 25 Hobgoblin Hides for Blorbo the Shrewd

Q: Can I substitute other types of hides?
- A: No. Blorbo specifically wants hobgoblin hides. Substituting other hides will likely result in rejection (and possibly worse).
Q: What if I can only find 24 hobgoblin hides?
- A: You need 25. No more, no less. Find another hobgoblin.
Q: Is it ethical to hunt hobgoblins for their hides?
- A: The ethics of hunting hobgoblins are debatable. They are generally considered to be pests and a threat to civilized society. However, some argue that they have a right to exist. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.
Q: What kind of reward can I expect from Blorbo?
- A: The reward varies depending on Blorbo’s mood, the quality of the hides, and your negotiating skills. It could be anything from a handful of gold coins to a rare magical artifact.
Q: Is this quest dangerous?
- A: Yes. Hunting hobgoblins can be dangerous. Be prepared for combat and take necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Q: Where can I learn more about tanning hides?
- A: There are many resources available on tanning hides, including books, websites, and workshops. A local leatherworker or tanner can also provide valuable guidance.
Q: What if I run into other adventurers trying to complete the same quest?
- A: Cooperation or competition are both viable options. Cooperation could lead to a faster completion, while competition might result in a larger share of the reward. However, be wary of betrayal.

Conclusion: A Quest Forged in Eccentricity

Completing the quest to bring Blorbo the Shrewd 25 hobgoblin hides is not for the faint of heart. It requires courage, skill, patience, and a willingness to embrace the bizarre. The reasons behind Blorbo’s strange request may remain shrouded in mystery, but the rewards – both tangible and intangible – can be substantial. So, grab your sword, sharpen your knife, and venture forth. The fate of 25 hobgoblin hides, and potentially your own, awaits! And remember, try not to ask too many questions of the Shrewd himself. Sometimes, the less you know, the better. Good luck, adventurer. You’ll need it.