It is fall in Sandpoint. Six weeks ago, the town celebrated the annual Swallowtail Festival. This year's was special as it was the five-year anniversary of the dedication of the new cathedral - and the more significant events surrounding that year's festival.
Sandpoint has almost completely recovered from that time - the buildings and people repaired as well as can be expected and peace had returned.
That is, until the news coming from some of the merchant caravans entering the town. Apparently, the Licktoad Goblins of Brinestump Marsh have grown unusually aggressive, attacking travelers and merchants. The reason for this uncharacteristic bravery seems clear: the goblins have somehow managed to arm themselves with what appears to be a considerable supply of fireworks. With the last few attacks resulting in severe injuries to three unfortunate travelers, the problem has escalated from an annoyance to a threat.
As none of the attacks have yet inconvenienced Magnimar (only Sandpointers and other Lost Coasters have been hit so far), the city has been slow to react.
You have spent the past weeks in Sandpoint, staying at the House of Blue Stones with Sabyl Sorn, the caretaker of Sandpoint's only monastery. Sharing a common devotion to Irori, you deeply respect one another. Sabyl is growing older, but is still a force to be reckoned with when it comes time to train. Several bruises are constant reminders of that.
On this morning, you are greeted by a knock at the door to your. It is Sabyl and she is holding a poster. "This is a task for you," she says simply.
You have been in Sandpoint for several straight weeks now - a record for you. Much of that time has been spent at the Rusty Dragon. You've heard the reports of the goblin attacks from the travelers that stop in at the Dragon. As many of these are friends or acquaintances, you are eager to do your part to help, if you can.
One morning, coming down from your room at the Dragon, you are greeted by a large poster.
You wake early one bright, crisp Autumn morning. As you're preparing your morning meal, you hear a large pounding on the wall of your small apartment. You put on a cloak and walk outside to see what the disturbance is. On the wall is a large poster.
You awake with a start. Squinting, you look towards the window - it is morning. You have fallen asleep sitting up, the book you were reading spread on the floor. Chask Haladan, proprietor of The Curious Goblin has allowed you to spend the night in his shop. Again.
Standing and stretching you decide to head to get some food. As you walk out of the shop, you see a group gathered. Stepping to see what has their attention, you see them all looking at a large poster.
You awake early in the morning, the smell of grilled fish and fried eggs rising through the floorboards. You're at The Hagfish - one of Sandpoint's most popular taverns. As you dress and prepare for the day, you make your way downstairs. Jargie Quinn, a gregarious one-legged man named who owns the tavern, greets you. "'Ello, Nik'o. Top o' the morning. 'Ow'd you sleep? Well, I trust? You should see this. Seems like it's right up y'er alley" He points to a large poster on the wall.
----
The Poster Reads:
Wanted: The Brave. The Skilled. The Committed.
We, the leaders of Sandpoint, are calling upon you, the citizens of Sandpoint, to put an end to the goblin threat we face before it gets out of hand.
All interested are encouraged and invited to The Rusty Dragon tonight at 6:00 p.m. You will learn what we are asking and how you can help.
----
The day passes and you arrive at the Inn at the prescribed time. Opening the door, you see an incredibly large crowd gathered - but sitting on one side of the tavern. The other side is nearly completely empty. The tables have been removed and chairs placed facing an improvised stage. Standing near the stage is Sheriff Hemlock, a particularly unhappy scowl on his face, and Mayor Deverin, forcing a smile.
All eyes are on you as make your way to a chair. As you sit, the mayor's smile becomes less forced. Hemlock's face remains unchanged.
After a long day of chores, meditation, and martial training, Nami takes his customary bath, dons his robes, grabs his ever-present jo, and leaves the quiet solitude he's found in the Blue Stones to venture out into Sandpoint. The streets are quiet as he makes his way down Water street and Market street, but when he sees The Rusty Dragon in the distance it's obvious where everyone is at.
Entering the tavern, he feels the eyes on him, the eyes are not new. He gathers stares in town like honey gathers flies, his shaven head and exotic dress are no doubt the source. He greets Ameiko with a small, familiar bow as he passes the bar and heads in to the taproom proper. He avoids the press of people gathered in the room, making nods and smiles of recognition to acquaintances while heading off to one side where the crowd is lighter. Sitting at one of the few empty tables, he props his jo against it and takes a seat then tucks his hands into the folds of his robes.
The eyes of the crowd move on and he joins them, watching the sheriff, the mayor, anyone on or near the stage, a dwarf dressed in the style of a gypsy, stout, and flamboyant. The crowd's attention moves to the next person entering the tavern and his eyes follow. This is all so fascinating.
He acknowledges the dwarf's question with an eager grin. "Nami, yes. Nah-may, yes, good. You are Tobar? I thought so. I have come to hear more of these goblins and fireworks. Fireworks, unbelievable! A goblin would be more like to blow himself up than do any real damage. Have you seen the beauty of the fires dancing in the night sky? It is a sight to behold! In goblin hands...like a child with a katana."
The rosy-cheeked gnome lass gave a tiny "Harumph" as she gazed up at the poster in growing dismay.
Goblins... They surely could have waited until Spring to start with their antics. Stuffing the last bit of a honeyed sweet roll into her mouth, she pulled the deep blue cloak a bit tighter around her neck as she shivered in the frosty mid-fall morning. I guess I'll have to see what this is about then.
A few minutes after the appointed time listed on the placard she arrives at the Rusty Dragon. Perfumed and pretty, with her eyes painted a bold orange-yellow and her fiery auburn hair swept up in a loose Varisian scarf of vibrant Autumn colors. A dark shade of red, the hue of a turning Maple leaf splashed her soft lips.
Despite the delicate appearance of her face, the gnome was otherwise geared for adventure. A shirt of fine chain was visible beneath her brown blouse and well-worn leather boots peaked out from under her pleated skirt. She wore a small, but deadly black-handled rapier at her side.
Allowing the door to close loudly behind her, she enjoyed the few stares that it bought her from the assembled crowd at the tavern and approached her friend Tobar, a dwarven priest, and a halfling monk she had seen around but never chanced to speak with.
A girl's gotta make a suitable entrance, I s'pose. she smiles broadly, throwing a suggestive wink at Tobar before giving the dwarf a big hug. I hope I didn't miss anything.
Looking over at the monk, she introduces herself enthusiastically to him after freeing the cleric from her embrace.
I'm Kallista Firebloom! she announces a tad louder than she probably should have, Scholar of religions both common and obscure, and occasional singer at the local hotspots. My friends and close acquaintances call me Kallie. Or Kal. Or Kallista... Yup, they call me Firecracker too. Oh My! There I go! She stifles a short giggle and extends her hand to the halfling in a gesture of friendship. Very pleased to meet you... letting the last bit hang as though expecting a name.
Following the dwarf's motion, she eyes all the vacant seats and fixes a happy smile on him. That certainly makes the most sense, it does. she exclaims brightly.
Taking the chair next to Tobar, she makes a little gasping sound and flutters her small hand rapidly in front of her face as though she's about to faint.It's warm in here tonight for sure! she sheds her heavy blue cloak and places it over the back of her seat before sitting back down very close to the brightly-garbed dwarf.
I feel asleep again...? Infuriating...
Theo sighs and rubs his eyes, taking a slow, deep breath. Adjusting the collar of his shirt, he rises from his seat, reaching for the book with a scowl. I must be more careful...
He steps out of the reading room with a soft yawn. The sleep is relentlessly clinging to his eyes. "Mr. Haladan," he calls out, voice raspy and unrefined for the morn, "I offer my sincerest apologies."
After dealing with the consequences of his irresponsibility (if any), Theo steps out into the bright morning sun - with aan irritable grunt. Covering his eyes, he makes his way home - though not before casting an admittedly curious glance in direction of the crowd gathered around the poster. Twirling thumb and finger through the tuft on his chin, Theo mumbles quietly and carries on.
---
Ah, Mr. Chiisai is here? Intriguing.
Theo enters the Rusty Dragon, clad in his brown-and-grey doublet. Accompanied by soft ringing of metal and chains, an intricate tome is dangling from his left hip, a metal horn from the right. His weapon is strapped on his back, to metal rings and leather straps. He scarcely throws anyone - except Nami - a glance, treading across the open space. He doesn't sit - he instead scoots behind the myriad of chairs, chin raised and arms crossed behind his back.
As all five you arrive and take your seat, several minutes pass. More people enter the tavern, but all stay on the other side, which, at this point, is becoming quite full. Sheriff Hemlock and Mayor Deverin are whispering, their frustration obvious. Several more minutes pass - it is well past six now.
Ameiko, her hair in braids with feathers, beads and other objects that almost look like bones protruding at strange angles, steps into the room. She says in a loud voice, "All right you lot, I've got a round on the house for anyone who agrees to help out with our...situation." No one moves. She gives Hemlock and Deverin a shrug and makes her way back to the kitchen.
"It is clear that you five are all who are interested in helping this town," Hemlock says, his angry eyes scanning over those gathered across the room. "So be it. You look like a capable lot." His eyes turn back to the group and land on Kallista. "For the most part."
Mayor Deverin steps forward, a wide smile on her face. "We are incredibly grateful to the five of you sitting here. I am surprised, but no less grateful, to see some of you. Most of you are not from our fair town." Raising her voice slightly, so as to be clearly heard throughout the room, she says, "It is good to see there are some who show concern for our troubles."
Across the room a voice can be heard, "Concern'll get ye' keeled." There is some muttering of agreement which is quickly hushed as Hemlock glares at them. Mayor Deverin continues as if uninterrupted.
"As you're aware, the Licktoad goblins of Brinestump have increased their aggressive actions of late, emboldened, no doubt, by the acquisition of some fireworks. Where they found them is beyond me, but it is clear they must be stopped. Sheriff Hemlock has some information that will be of interest and value to you."
Hemlock steps forward, nodding at Deverin before speaking. "We have agreed to reinstate the 'goblin bounty' that we used to have several years ago. The town of Sandpoint will
pay 10 gp for every relatively fresh goblin ear delivered to the town hall—with an additional reward of 300 gp should you manage to bring in the head of the Licktoads’ leader, Chief Gutwad." There are some laughs from the peanut gallery at the chief's name. "This no laughing matter!" Hemlock says angrily. Turning back to the group, he says "Goblins are a nuisance. Capable men...and women...such as yourselves should have no problem dealing with them."
"Is that what you told the others you sent, too?" A woman's voice says sharply from across the room. "Is that what you told my boy? He hasn't been back and it's been three days. He should be back by now!" Mayor Deverin puts a hand on Hemlock's shoulder before he can speak.
"We did, truly, send in another, eager, younger group three days ago. They approached us with the idea." she says. "We would ask that if you agree to go, you look for them, too." She nods to the woman who spoke and says, "We will find your son Melenda." After a moment of silence, she says, "So that's it. We need your help. If you are willing, remain seated and we will get you some ale and answer any questions you have. If you are not, you are, obviously, free to leave."
"Very well." Theo speaks as loudly and clearly as he can, as he steps forward. "If it is in service of Sandpoint and for the good of us all, I will go."
He glances at the rest of the seated with expectant eyes, before he reverts his gaze to the Mayor and Sheriff.
Nami takes the offered hand of the exuberant Kallista and shakes it while giving the best bow he can while sitting. "Nami Chiisai, emissary of the Temple of the Dynamic Sphere to Sandpoint. It is a pleasure to meet one of such an accomplished voice, Miss Firebloom. I have had the opportunity to overhear your performances on my nightly runs through the town, a true pleasure."
The halfling then notices the entrance of Theo into the tavern and politely motions to an available chair at the table, acknowledging both courtesy and his acquaintance with the brooding gunman. Even with the polite offer he knows this man would rather maintain his solitude, though surrounded by the crowd, and sees an admirable strength within the half-orc he had not seen before.
He listens to the pleas of both Hemlock and Deverin, watching the reactions of the cowed townsfolk and heckling of the safely anonymous. His concern grows at the mention of the youngsters' disappearance and the plight of Melenda.
When Theo and Tobar finish, he stands in his seat so that all in attendance can see him. "Sandpoint is not my home, it lies far away, but I see you all as neighbors in my adopted land. I will go to help return this mother's son and to aid those that I would call brave. Let us make Sandpoint safe." He then sets back down and waits to see if any more will join them.
Kallista blushes deeply at the monk's compliment, but is interrupted by the start of the meeting before she can express her thanks.
During the course of the speeches the gnome flashes her tongue mockingly at Sheriff Hemlock when his eyes momentarily land on her. I've got some surprises in store for YOU, she says to herself, as she puffs up in her seat an almost impressive quarter inch taller than she is.
She softens just as quickly when Mayor Deverin takes the stage and listens eagerly the instant the word "goblin" is mentioned. Her mind swimming with both fear and anticipation at the thought of actually facing some in real combat.
Once the pair of authorities have had their say she stands and loudly announces her intent to join the group, "I've lived here far too long to see my home get threatened by the likes of this Licktoad band, fireworks or not! You can count on my blade and inspiration!"
Turning to Tobar's whisper she giggles fiercely and adds, "Just color me happy that I know you'll be there to keep me from being killed... or worse! Bored!" Wrinkling her tiny nose with a delighted smirk, she turns back to the assembly to see if there are any other takers or if anything else of interest will happen or be said.
"Excellent!" Mayor Deverin says. "You five make quite the group. I am glad you have accepted. Now, as you're likely aware, Brinestone Marsh is about two miles due south of here. The marsh may not be as large as the Mushfens farther to the south, but the swamp is dense and tangled. It’s easy to get lost in the place. No one’s made a really detailed map of Brinestump— there’s been no need, since there’s not much of value within. But if anyone knows his way around in the marsh, it’d be that old eccentric halfling, Walthus Proudstump."
Hemlock speaks up, "A fishing trail leads from the Lost Coast Road directly to Walthus’s shack in the swamp. I would recommend paying him a visit and seeking his advice before going after the goblins. Do watch out for his...collection, though. And his stink."
Mayor Deverin says, "The rest of your drinks are on us tonight - we can't thank you enough and are eager to put an end to the troubles. Now, do you have any questions before we leave you to your planning and drinking - hopefully more of the former?"
"Just one little question Sheriff" Kallista blurts out, aiming her query pointedly at Hemlock as she stands up high in her chair to afford everyone still gathered a better view of her diminutive form. "Who are among those missing you sent earlier? This woman here, as well as a few others, I assume, would like some recognition at the very least that their lost kin are not merely forgotten by those with fancy titles."
"And while Ms. Firebloom has your attention," Theo adds with nonchalance, adjusting the collar of his doublet as he steps forward. "You mentioned Mr. Proudstump's... collection in a curious manner. Do you perchance know what this collection consists of? Something of animalistic nature, I surmise."
When Theo has gotten his answer, he gives a stiff bow to his now-to-be colleagues. "We now have our mission. Do you have a proposal of how to best complete it?"
Hemlock looks intently at Kallista before answering - the dislike is obvious. "We sent Karl - Melena's son - and Bryan Weatherby. His parents live in Korvosa, so they are likely unaware that he is...missing. The other three who went with them were mercenaries or adventurers - I didn't catch their names."
Mayor Deverin responds to Theo. "Yes, he collects reptiles. Snakes, to be specific. I don't know that they are dangerous, but there are many of them."
"You sent a bo..." The angry bard quickly stilled her tongue and turned her back coldly to the sheriff lest he decide to put her little behind in jail for the remainder of the evening, looking instead at the distraught woman who had lost her child. "As my noble companion has promised," she spoke to the lady with as much conviction as she could muster, reiterating Tobar's vow, "We will find out what has become of Karl and the Weatherby lad, and visit some Sandpoint style vengeance upon any goblin who may have harmed either of them!"
Casting a disgusted look back at Sheriff Hemlock, she hopped down from her makeshift stage and sputtered vehemently at nobody in particular. "Bloody Hell! MERCENARIES with local boys! Damn that man..."
"Gods he vexes me so, yup he does!" she complained loudly to Tobar as she gathered up her skirts from the jump from the chair.
Her whole mood changed suddenly as her pretty face blanched white with fear and her eyes bulged a bit as she stammered, "Wait did she say SNAKES?"
Nami shakes his head at the folly of the town officials and gives an approving grin at Kallista's outburst, his trust in them falling while his newly acquired respect for Kallista rises.
He chides Kallista, "Afraid of a few milk snakes, Miss Firebloom?"
Hearing Nik'o's suggestion, he speaks up. "I agree. We can gather what supplies we will need this evening and leave before the sun rises. I do not like the idea of stomping through the swamp in the dark, especially to be greeted by reptiles."
He puts away the remainder of his ale. Not as good as the temple's sake. Then drops from the chair, grabs his jo still leaning against the table and stands ready to make his departure if the discussion is finished.
"Oh I just despise snakes and serpents of all sorts!" Kallista spoke informatively to Nami, her voice cracking just a bit as she explains, "This one time I was on a boat, well, a ship really, and we were headed to Sargava far to the south of here. Here being Sandpoint of course. Very interesting woman on board, Varisian I believe, dressed similar to my good friend here." indicating Tobar by elbowing him in the side just at the same moment he delivered the 'slithering invaders' comment. "She spent a lot of time researching this old serpent god, I chanced to speak with her a few times, never at great length, nope, but the things she spoke of..." Kallista shudders once again at the memories of those dreadful conversations and donned her blue cloak. "That and they're slimy things you know. They really are, yup!"
"Well!" I guess we're all settled on our course then! Tomorrow at first light. Shall we meet back here at the Dragon?" The petite bard goes off to search for a platter of food, preferably sweets, to abate her hunger and possibly sneak home with her. Staying in earshot of her companions as she does so.
Theo nods, rubbing the beard on his chin with unblinking eyes. "Dawn it is, then. I concur."
When the dwarf approaches he grasps the dwarf's hand; a firm, solid, cool grip. There is no malice behind the shake. "A pleasure, Mr. Pannell. I am Sevastien Theodorus. If I may, who is this Walker you speak of? It has all the seeming of someone otherworldly. Is that his - or her - symbol I see?"
The crowd on the other side of the room begins to disperse, but there are two who walk up to the five of you. One is an older man with a scarred face, but a strong presence. The other an aged, but spry gnome. The man extends his hand to each of you. "I am Daviren Hosk, owner and caretaker at the Goblin Squash Stables. I am, in my condition, unable to ply my former trade as a goblin hunter. I don't know what those fools on the other side of the room fear - goblins are nothing to be feared. Anyway, I would like to offer each of you a horse for use on the ride to the Swamp." Looking at Kallista, he adds, "And of course, m'lady, Sunflower will be saddled, groomed and ready to go."
You recognize Hosk's name - he is something of a legend around Sandpoint. He fought and killed hundreds goblins during his youth, almost single-handedly exterminating the now-extinct Bonegrinder tribe. In a somewhat grisly display, over the entrance to his stable’s covered barn is his collection of goblin ears: preserved and nailed to three different rafters, each bearing the goblin’s name burned into the leathery flesh. His pride and joy, though, is a large glass bottle filled with brine in which he’s preserved the body of Chief Whartus of the Bonegriders. This man knows goblins. And how to dispose of them.
The gnome also extends his hand in greeting. "My name is Veznutt Parooh and I'm the proprietor of the Way North. Hosk is not alone in his desire to help. I don't know that I have much to offer, apart from a map of the surrounding area. At the least, it should help you reach Brinestump." He reaches into his satchel and withdraws a rolled piece of parchment.
Ameiko emerges from the kitchen and sees Hosk and Parooh speaking to the group. Not to be outdone she approaches and says, "I'll have a couple's days worth of food and water ready for you in the morning. Just come by here before heading out." Looking fondly at Kallista, she says, "Be careful, my little friend. This is different than your stories and songs." Looking at the other side of the room with a slightly disgusted look on her face, she says, "I need to go see if that lot needs anything. Not that they deserve it."
"I see. Sinashakti. I will remember. And no, I do not. We have company."
He turns to the older man and the aged gnome; when the man's hand is extended, Theo grasps it as firmly as he did with Tobar's. "A pleasure. I am Sevastien Theodorus." "Horses? What are we to do with them upon arrival?"
Theo barely squats to shake the gnome's hand, clearly uncomfortable with having to crouch. "A pleasure," he says clearly, accepting the map from Mr. Parooh. Unfolding the parchment, he studies it carefully while turning an attentive ear to the rest of the chatter.
"If you don't mind, I will be sending some boys to accompany you to Brinestump." Hosk replies. "They will stay with the horses until you return. And, should you be gone more than two days, they will return here and notify us. Not that I am concerned about that happening."
"So long as they do not become a burden, it is a sound plan, Mr. Hosk." Theo never takes his eyes off of the map as he speaks.
"Thank you for taking such good care of Sunflower, Hosk. Kallista beams up at the gruff human, "She is so used to being stabled and growing fat off your apples and oats that I fear she'll be right vexed with me for bringing her into the Brinestump Swamp of all places, she will! Not at all pleased. Nope. Her oft-boggled mind now seeing swamps, snakes, goblins, ponies and creme puffs all at the same time. Trying to whittle down the mental images to only one, she adds, "We'll bring you back all the gobbo ears we find to add to your... umm... collection! she promises hastily, not really thinking how exactly she was going to separate said ears from said goblins, but hoping one of the more violent-looking characters among them would volunteer for the task, like that Nik'o fellow.
When Veznutt introduces himself, Kallista greets him with a smile and promptly ignores the old gnomes extended hand and glomps him with such a fierce hug that it would likely be considered an outright attack by certain viewers. "Sorry bout that!" she giggles profusely, apologizing more to any who witnessed the assault then to the poor old gnome.
When Ameiko arrives, kallista gets excited! Wrapping up her old friend and growing teary-eyed as the bigger human lifts her off her feet in her embrace.
"I'll try to keep myself from getting too banged up or worse, Ameiko." she says, now fully crying and yet smiling at once.
Once Ameiko leaves, Kallista will attempt to dry her eyes and blow her nose loudly in one of Tobar's many worn scarves.
"First light, I'll be here then." He begins to depart as Hosk and Parooh approach, but the extended hand brings the monk up short. He shakes it and listens as the two offer their support for the part. The mention of horses sets his stomach to churning, while the food is greatly appreciated.
"Horses, yes...umm. I've never ridden a horse. A bit pricey for the monasteries...and they're so tall. Perhaps, I could just...hitch a ride with someone, I wouldn't want to slow us down."
Nami makes sure to stay well away from the two women and their emotional display. Such close friendship is a joy to see, but so public. These Varisians, so odd at times.
Once her tears stop flowing, Kallista speaks to the monk, her voice still a bit squeaky from her episode, "You are welcome to ride with me if you'd like Nami!" she offers, "Sunflower is a gentle pony and much more stable than those long legged horses, she is! Much closer to the ground too! She's also pretty cool-headed and won't be as likely to panic and run away if she sees a snake or goblin."
She doesn't bother add that the pony might be inclined to actually attack and pursue such things, deciding to cross that bridge if she comes to it.
"It would be most appreciated and I will bring an apple for Sunflower. Tomorrow then my companions."
He walks out into the crisp evening air, then begins a moderate job through the streets of Sandpoint, making a circuit of the town and then returning to the Blue Stones. He finishes what chores would remain, has an apple for himself, then turns in for bed.
Kallista will spend a half hour or so with Tobar, taking a mug of ale for herself, using her gnomish magic to lightly frost both her own and Tobar's mug (if he so wishes), while smiling innocently if he inspects his scarf.
Before she departs, she will take the stage to sing a comical tune about a handsome, but arrogant village hunter who was cruelly dismissed by his love and is being cheered up by his fellows, who are adulating him with tales of his great feats of physical prowess.
Once she has concluded the song she hugs Tobar softly and returns to her home.
After having adequately studying the map, Theo folds the parchment and glances at the others. "I will hold on to this," he says, showing it to those who remained. "I will see you in the morn."
Theo leaves for his home.
He wakes up an hour before dawn, and arrives as agreed upon...
Morning comes. It is slightly colder than normal, with a gentle rain spitting from the sky. As you all arrive at The Rusty Dragon, you see Hosk and a tall, skinny middle-aged man handling the horses. Bethana, the halfling barmaid, greets you all and encourages you to head inside for a quick bite to eat and a word with Ameiko.
After you've all arrived, Ameiko emerges from the kitchen to greet you all. She hands a wrapped parcel to each of you, containing two days worth of foodstuff. She also hands Kallista a small pouch saying, "I'm giving these to you for safekeeping, but I am sure you will share them if needed - which I am confident they won't. That was all I had on hand." In the pouch are four vials, clearly labeled Cure Light Wounds. Wishing all of you well, with a tight hug for Kallista, she leaves you to finish your breakfast.
When you all head back outside, Hosk introduces you to the man. "This here is Horace. He grew up outside of Sandpoint and is somewhat familiar with the swamp. He'll guide you to the swamp and watch the horses while you deal with the little bastards."
You all choose your horse - Kallista and Nami clamber onto Sunflower. Nami has some difficulty, but with Horace and Kallista's help, finally manages to get seated properly. Once everyone is mounted, Horace says in a raspy voice, "Are we off then?"
Kallista arrives with a cheerful smile, a tad early and dressed warmly to ward off the morning cold.
She enjoys her portion of the morning meal, and speaks excitedly with her new companions as she eats only a single egg and honeyed roll before growing full.
Her eyes sparkle when Ameiko arrives with the gifts of food and potions and threaten to burst with new tears that are welling into big drops at the corners, but she keeps steady as she hugs her friend "Good-bye for now". "I sure hope they won't be needed, I do." she says softly , referring to the healing potions, "You take care of yourself here Big Lady." The little gnome sniffles once after she releases her friend, but is back to her cheerful, bouncy self almost immediately.
As they prepare to head out on the trail, she observes Tobar's ritual with no detail to attention spared, as this is the very first time she has actually traveled with the dwarf outside of town and witnessed firsthand this particular religious rite. "I'll be sure to include this in my book!" she thinks excitedly to herself as the cleric concludes the prayer.
Before mounting, she stuffs the pack of food into one of Sunflower's saddlebags and hands one each of the four healing potions to her companions, stating "It won't do us any good for me to hold all four! Nope, nope!"
Once sitting with Nami upon Sunflower and on the trail, she offers some whispered advice occasionally to the halfling about pony-riding; how to steer, how to get her to stop, how to get her walking again when she sees something on the ground she wants to eat, and whatnot.
Otherwise she remains uncharacteristically silent, as though afraid that loud words may bring down the wrath of snakes, goblins or worse.
She doesn't complain when Nik'o fires up his pipe, having come from a long line of pipe-smoking gnomes, but she is surely puzzled by the unfamiliar scent of whatever whatever the strange man had cooking in there. Certainly not Apple or Cherry leaf.
Kallista made a note to ask him what it was once she gets to know him better... maybe he'll even offer her a puff.
The gnome looses a tiny, high-pitched giggle at the thought.
"Yes, Horace. Let us be off. Thank you, Ms. Firebloom, for this potion. I will make sure to use it well."
While Tobar's strange handshake-and-shoulder-pat leaves Theo confused, he doesn't object. He has only a slight seeming of anxiety in regards of riding a horse, yet when he gets into the saddle, he looks quite comfortable.
He stays quiet and still during the beginning trip, only adjusting the strappings of the gun on his back on occasion. After a little while, he slows down his pace until he is even with Horace. "How much do you know of the swamp, Horace?"
"Nope nope," the halfling explains to the frightening-looking woodsman, inspecting her pouch in hopes she missed a couple bottles. "Just these... Though I surely see the comfort having a few vials would bring where we're headed, I do. I'm hopeful the snakes and bugs will remain content to stay sleeping in their logs and hidey holes due to the cold and not pay us much mind."
Nami arrives at the Rusty Dragon as the light of dawnn peeks over Sandpoint. He greets the companions that have already arrived and does some light morning stretches as he waits for the others and the promised horses.
He gives Ameiko a beaming smile and says good morning to both her and Hosk, then bows his head in respect for Tobar's prayer and adds a small prayer for himself to Irori before getting a hand in mounting Sunflower behind Kallista.
He listens carefully to the instructions and advice offered from the bard as he gets the feeling for riding and stuffs the offered vial into his pack, seeing the apple he had brought for Sunflower. He hands the apple to Kallista and says, "A snack for our fine steed."
With a wary eye, he looks the woodsman over as he talks to Kallista, noticing the ranger's nervous, taut nature. "I've never seen you in Sandpoint before, what brings you to this venture? You're among friends, well, companions in the least, relax and enjoy the morning's ride, the swamp is still further on."
"Oooo! You'll spoil her, but she will be most grateful!" Kallista exclaims when Nami hands her his gift for Sunflower. Delivering the piece of fruit directly to the pony so she could give it a good sniff before happily devouring it.
"You know my uncle used to say ponies and horses could track by scent just like dogs, he did!" she begins to explain with a good degree of enthusiasm. "He was a bit addled-brained, the poor fellow, he actually tried to train ponies to find truffles if you can imagine that! Not much came of that venture!" she giggled ferociously at her hapless kin's poor planning.