Darlin sits fairly quietly as the others discuss and ponder things in the evening. He witnesses the family dispute and after her father flees the tavern he turns to Amiko and asks "Family can be the worst, right? I remember my father and I used to get into the most heated arguments about what was proper for a dwarf. He always wanted me to worship his god, but I have been devoted to Sarenrae for a long time. Is everything alright?
yes family is... Trying at times. My father seems to think it best him an I leave town at once and move to Magnimar to live with his sister... This worries me. Our family has been well established in sandpoint for many years, using the beaches natural resources to build one of the larges glass factories in all if varisia... What would cause him to need to leave... I have a sneaking suspicion about this... I believe things may be connected... I have some things to look in to. I will bid you all a good night.
indeed a good night with plenty of rest to all...
Night passes and the sun rises on a new day. You are all awoken by one of the Dragon's maids.
miss Ameiko left early this morning... There is a gentleman who came for you all. He requests your presence at sheriff hemlocks office as soon as you all are able. He wanted you all yo understand it is rather urgent
And with that she gets back to her work and leaves all you to prepare yourselves to meet the sheriff
Well then, i guess i better hurry and head on over there.
skipping breakfast, arthur makes his way toward the office with all due haste.
Whether it was having just woken up, or Arthurs cheerful responce that had Thalrik annoyed was uncertain, but a nights rest had not done much to lighten his mood.
"You do that then, I for one do not intend to go running off without a solid meal to fortify me for whatever bothersome errand this person is sure to ask us to perform. I swear this whole "Sandpoint Heroes" business is nothing but trouble."
From her perch on Thalriks shoulder, Rikka looked at Arthur. Looking back he could almost read her fuzzy little face saying "Sorry but I have to agree on this one". Although she was likely "talking" only about the food.
After taking his time with his morning preperations, he sighed heavily, before starting the walk to the sheriffs house and whatever bothersome new "quest" was sure to be waiting there.
You all arrive at the sheriff's quarters. He is seated at a long table with his usually grim expression on his face. Beyond that, he appears as if he did not sleep the night before, and a tankard of ale sits before him (quite unusual, considering the early hour).
Next to him stands a beautiful, tall, blonde, Elven woman. A sword is at her hip and a beautifully carved bow hangs across her back. She has the obvious look of a warrior about her.
Seated at the table across from these two is Mayor Deverin, the mayor of Sandpoint. She sits with an equally grim expression, which, unlock Hemlock's, is not characteristic.
Hemlock greets you as you enter:
well met... I suppose. Once again, on behalf of sandpoint, I would like to thank you all for everything you have done... I understand Ameiko has honored you, in her way, with free room and board. I am sure that is not close to adequate compensation. Our town guard can manage more than that. And with that in mind, we would like to offer each of you 500 gold, as Sandpoint's official thanks.
Now... yesterday brought about some disturbing news... verifying my fears. I had hoped perhaps the goblins had simply gotten the idea into their heads they could take us... sadly this is not the case. Someone is leading these tribes. Someone not goblin... and it disturbs me. You may all not be aware of this, but most in Sandpoint can remember the Misgivings. A terrible murderer ravaged these parts... and it seems that equally dire times are upon us. Sandpoint was not the only town to be hit by goblin raiders. It seems all about the Lost Coast, goblin activity is on the rise. A local farm not far from here was burnt down only a day ago... and with that... I believe Shalelu here can further elaborate...
With that, the tall elf woman stands and addresses you all:
Hemlock has told me of your work against the goblins... well done. I have dedicated the last several years of my life to keeping them from causing too much trouble around these parts, but they are tenacious and fecund little runts. Like weeds that bite. There are five major goblin tribes in the region, and, traditionally, they are pretty good at keeping each other in line with intertribal squabbles and the like. Yet from what I've been able to piece together, members of all five tribes were involved in the raid on Sandpoint. A fair number of the Mosswood goblins I dealt with the other day were already pretty beat up... and there was a lot of chatter about the 'longshanks' who killed so many of their warriors. Now that I have met you, it is clear you they were talking about. You have all certainly made an impression. In any event, the fact that these tribes are working together disturbs me. Goblin tribes do not get along unless they have got something big planned. Big plans require big bosses. I am afraid that someone moved in on the goblins and organized them. Judging by these recent raids, and what they are organizing seems like bad news for all of us.
After her speech, the sheriff stands and addresses everyone:
I will be taking a few men to Magnimar to request additional support for our town here, at least until this threat can be determined. I ask you all to stay here... it seems the townsfolk have taken a liking to you all, and will feel safe with you around. Something dire is at work here... and I plan to get to the bottom of it!
Well sheriff, you can count on me staying here until your return from Magnimar.
"Aye, I was guided here and will happily help defend the townspeople Sherriff. Best of luck in Magnimar." Darlin stands and offers a handshake.
After hearing the introduction Darlin gives a bow to the Elf. "Pleased to meet you lass. I am Darlin Dayhammer. That is worrisome that all of the goblin tribes are joining together. Is there anything we can do to help thwart their attacks?"
The sheriff then busies himself preparing him and his men for the journey to Magnimar. Shalelu informs you all she is going to head to the Rusty Dragon to visit with her dear old friend Ameiko.
While she makes her way through town, many of the townsfolk cast her an ominous glare. The elven ranger usually sticks very close to her schedule, coming into town only once every few months. She was not expected here for another month at the least, and it is somewhat of a shock to see her now.
You all eventually find your way back to the Rusty Dragon as well. Ameiko is busy in the back room talking sternly with Shalelu, and it appears they do not wish to be disturbed at this time.
Aldern Foxglove, the man you all rescued from a certain 'goblining' sits at the bar and greets you all.
Ah, another fine morning eh? It seems maybe things can start to get back to normal here... or so it is hoped! So, what say you all about the boar hunt? It is a beautiful day, and I can everything prepared in the hour.
A fine morning it is! I'll still have yet to purchase a boar spear, but once I get that out of the way I'm ready to go. What about the rest of you?
Aldern let's out a huge guffaw and gives you a big smile.
Dear little friend, wait here!
He heads off to his room for a minute, and returns with 4 medium sized boar spears, and one small sized one.
Just thought I would pop by and grab these in case none of you had your own... please take them!
Well i am not one to like a boar hunt, in fact i don't like hunting as a sport even. i feel that hunting should be more about putting food on your plate then about a past time. But since i am sure you are going to insist i will come. says arthur while picking a spear.
Well I am glad to here you like putting food on your plate, because I plan on throwing you, and this town a feast of roasted boar!
well then if we are going out for food and not pleasure at an animal's expense then count me in.
Thalrik looked at Ferdin with a quizzical look. He was having a hard time getting a handle on how he should feel about the man. Not a day ago he had talked about being proud he could read, sounding every bit like a simpleton to Thalrik. But he was in full agreement with his last statement, which was surprisingly thoughtful.
"I would have to agree with Ferdin. Seems Sandpoint isnt as quiet a hamlet as Rindal had led me to believe. It seems I shall have to participate and clear up this mess before I can get any peace to do what I came here to do."
Back at the tavern, Thalrik held up and rejecting hand at the offered Boar Spear.
"That wont do me much good, and quite frankly I am of a similar mindset to Arthur, though thats more a case of my distaste for brandishing weapons than any qualms with hunting. Even if its a sport to you, I trust the boar will be put to the plate all the same. So ill come along and watch the rest of you have your fun."
Turning to the others he said in a lower tone, so as not to alert Aldern to their other newly aquired quest.
"It will be a good opportinuty to maybe have a look at the local goblins on our way back afterwards."
|
I retrieve my new boar spear from my room, and hold it out for review.
Now is a good opportunity to show you all the very fine boar spear I acquired at the Red Dog Smithy. The proprietor is most grateful for our assistance in helping to defend Sandpoint -- see, he even engraved my name on the weapon, at no charge! He is even offering a discount to us on his wares. A fine gentlemen, and I highly recommend the Red Dog if you are thinking about acquiring any weapon as fine as this.
To Aldern: I am eager to go on this hunt! Lead the way!
Darlin takes a Spear and thanks Foxglove. He ponders the different things they have seen and wonders what purpose he was brought to this little town.
Events seem to be moving apace and he is unsure of exactly what to do. He agrees to join the others on the hunt and retires to his room for a few minutes to pray for guidance.
Afterwards he joins the rest of the party preparing for the hunt.
Thank you, Aldern, for the spear. I was thinking it would be nightmare trying to find one my size, without getting it custom made!
After a short while of preparation, the party departs for the Tickwood forest, directly to the East out of Sandpoint and about 3 hours away. The journey is uneventful, and few others are even seen, save a farmer or two traveling into town to sell their crops.
Aldern insists on sitting next to Ferdin during the trip. He addresses the fighter, almost ignoring all other party members while speaking. It reaches a point for his obsession with Ferdin has become obvious and almost annoying to everyone (except maybe Ferdin).
You are so brave dear Ferdin! As a poor orphan growing up in magnimar, I always imagined being a powerful fighter! Alas, the gods did not leave me blessed in that way... but I can recognize a mighty warrior when I see one. How about you show me some of those moves? I would love to learn some fighting skill from you. Oh man... you are so awesome Ferdin!
After a couple hours of this, you all arrive deep in the Tickwood. Aldern suddenly adopts a serious tone.
Ok move silently gents... this woods are not known for being safe... the tickwood boar itself is a dangerous foe... we just be on our guard if we wish to celebrate with ale an roasted pork tonight!
He then starts walking into the wood
Dexter follows stealthily behind.
Stealth:
Survival:
Perception:
Thalrik stayed close to Darlin, striking up light conversation with the dwarf. It took several interuptions of the others asking him to be quiet, before he finally complied with an annoyed snort, and lowered his voice to a whisper.
Darlin follows behind as well, just not very stealthily. He keeps getting interested in Thalrik's questions until the other silence them.
Stealth
Perception
You wonder through the wood for about an hour, until (ironically)Thalrik stops dead in his tracks. He sees a boar up ahead, drinking out of a small pond. You all ready your spears and weapons...
Even though the Dwarf breathes so loud you could shoot him blindfolded, the boar does not appear to be aware of you all yet, so go ahead and post surprise round actions as well...
"Ah, seems your quest is almost at an end gentlemen, your objective is right over there." he pointed at the great beast. "Have at it then."
Surprise round action:
Either we charge him before we charge us, or we can make a frontline all 3 of us and set our spear against the charge.
Round 1
Total Damage = 26
Graooou..Gazoug Zog..Zog Mutup IMOTEPH !
Initiative:
On his action Darlin will move up behind Arthur and use his Touch of Good power on Arthur, giving him +1 on attack rolls, saves, skill/ability checks for 1 round. "Sarenrae guide your hand"
Initiative:
Order:
1. Ferdin
2. Dexter
3. Darlin
4. Arthur
5. Tickwood Boar
6. Aldern
7. Thalrik
Remaining Surprise Round Actions:
Aldern will move into position. He then knocks an arrow into his shortbow, and let's it loose at the boar.
Ok, everyone, brace your spears! I am going to try to get the beast to charge us!
The arrow strikes the unaware boar for 4 damage. The creature's eyes suddenly snap to attention, and the beast let's out a savage roar (or whatever sound a boar makes).
...Zog Mutup IMOTEPH
Thalrik crossed his arms and moved to the nearest tree, leaning on it and getting ready to enjoy the spectacle.
"Dont even start Rikka, one Color Spray and this hunt will be over. Let the beast have a chance atleast, its so slim to begin with...And besides, this seems beneath the application of arcane might."
The boar flies into a rage upon being hurt. It immediately hears Arthur yelling and charges straight for him. Right as the beast is about to reach him, Arthur steps forward and gores the boar upon his spear, killing it instantly.
Charge or be Charged was that a question?. Well my answer is Roasted pork ! says arthur with a smile...