220 / 07 / 08 - Metal Shortages

In recent weeks there have been less boats arriving from the mines in the Olion Hills.  Normally this occurs when a seam starts to run out, and many crafters keep a stock of metal to account for this, preventing any large changes in the price for metal goods. However, prices for metal have started to increase over the last few days as word has reached Chirin of more trouble than a lack of ore. Monstrous spiders have infested the mines and killed many of the miners and the guards. A squad of the Outer Guard has been dispatched under the command of Sergeant Mardin Guardian to investigate and deal with the problem. A veteran soldier, the sergeant is used to dealing with unusual threats having led his squad in dealing with a pack of ghouls (a type of undead creature) earlier this year. It is hoped that with the intervention of the Outer Guard this situation can be swiftly resolved.  In the meantime prices for metal goods, already half again as expensive as they were 2 weeks ago, are likely to increase.