Sandpoint. As far as the rest of the world is concerned, it is a quiet, normal little town - a mere stop-over for those eager to try their luck at finding fame and fortune elsewhere in the world. Few stay long enough to hear of the tales told from the pages of this town's history books. Those who do, are surprised to learn of ancient cults, serial killers, deadly plots and indeed far greater threats to Sandpoint's very existence. Still, the last threat was a few years ago. The famed Wolves of Sandpoint have long since moved on and life in Sandpoint has settled. So why would anyone stop to pay any attention to a few troublesome goblins?
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As nightfall creeps across the Varisian coast, remnants of an early summer storm howls through the streets of the sleepy town of Sandpoint. A solitary figure makes his way down one the cobblestone streets towards one of the town's more popular destinations. Known for its wild tales of adventure, the Rusty Dragon is a popular place with the young and old as it attracts many adventurers passing through. Eagar to hear the latest news from outside the walls, Jeryn picks up his pace. Rounding the corner, the lights of the Rusty Dragon come into view.
Pulling the door open, a strong gust grabs at the wooden barrier. Catching the side of the door in time, the young man manages to push it closed just in time for his ears to be treated to TONIGHT'S ENTERTAINMENT.
Although dimly lit, the tavern is cozy and inviting. On most nights, a roaring fire in the center provides ample illumination. Elsewhere, little tongues of light flickering amongst stalagmites of wax decorate the Rusty Dragon’s tables. On a small stage in the back corner, Ameiko Kaijitsu, Rusty Dragon's proprietor, finishes her latest composition. Simple, yet a highly entertaining piece, it never fails to capture the attention of her faithful patrons. As the last few cords are struck, her efforts are met with enthusiastic applause. Standing, Ameiko bows politely. Brushing a stray lock of jet black hair behind her ear, she carefully places her instrument on a stand in the corner and collects a few gold coins lying on a plate at the side of the stage. Taking up an apron placed next to the stand, the tavern's matron resumes her duties as hostess.
A beautiful woman of Tian descent, Ameiko smiles as she negotiates her way off the stage. She is of average height, yet tall for a Tian. She normally ties her jet black hair loosely at the back, save for a few locks of platinum white hair she lets hang loose. Always fashionable, tonight she wears a white crop top blouse that draws attention away from her short legs. The white fabric conceals a richly proportioned silver half cup corset which Ameiko enjoys wearing for its dramatic effect. Elaborate patterns of maroon have been embroidered on the metallic fabric creating interesting patterns which often plays tricks on the eyes of those who stare. Knee high black leather boots have been paired with snug fitting maroon pants accessorized by a thick black leather belt with a round silver buckle. With a sensible heel and numerous buckles running down the side, the boots conceal any flaws which might otherwise be noticeable – short shins. Although completely normal for a Tian, her legs are not Ameiko’s favourite part of her body.
Her enticing outfit does what it was intended to do, flattering her curves as she makes her way towards Jeryn. Ameiko’s smile turns coy as her dark eyes catch him gawking, Hey you! Glad you could make it. Can I get you anything? Your usual perhaps?
The young human's cheeks burn red in the firelight as he nods his head. Ameiko's smile softens and the matron turns to the kitchen.
Fenra, pulling against the wind to close the door of the tavern, enters the Rusty Dragon. She pulls of the scarf that had been holding her thick hair safe against the wind and shakes it out. She is aware of the many admiring glances that seek her out and smiles to herself. She scans the room and, spotting Jeryn, moves gracefully over to the table and seats herself opposite him.
With a smile she greets him and catches Ameiko's attention. With a little nod she lets her know that she wants her usual then settles back into her chair.
And how are you this evening? She queries Jeryn. Anything interesting planned? She gives a little sigh, knowing nothing really interesting ever happens.
Rennyn was seated at the bar with his back to the door, his attention fully upon his good friend Ameiko's performance. Noticing Fenra enter, Rennyn gives her a smile as he brushes a mop of white gold hair from his eyes. Grabbing up his mug of sour apple cider, he moves to join her and Jeryn at their table.
With a confidant ease he slides into a chair beside the lovely half-elf. Cutting in before Jeryn can respond, and remarking playfully while pulling at a loose string in his lamellar armor nonchalantly, Him? Unlikely. Me? Nothing. Yet! The night is still young!
Looking over the room of patrons, Rennyn inquires, That makes three. Do you think Kenan will be joining us?
Downing the last of his mug, Rennyn looks to Ameiko for a refill. We had better figure out something to do. My tab grows beyond my meagre means.
Jeryn smiles and is about to respond to Fenra when he is cut off by Rennyn. He feigns disappointment at the interruption and rolls his eyes and shakes his head. He eagerly replies Actually I have just procured a new batch of scrolls and a small shipment of ink. I am looking forward to transposing some of the spells from my spellbook.... he winks at Rennyn and lifts his mug in a toast, ...tomorrow! After a sip of his drink he goes back to what he was doing prior to the arrival of his friends - sorting a handful of nuts on the table in order of size, smallest to largest spanning from left to right.
As the din of the tavern resumes, one brash voice in particular rises above the rest. I don’t know why I bother to pay my taxes. Standing in front of the tavern’s message board, is a tall white haired elderly man. A sun bleached blue shirt and khaki pants dotted by leather patches and a long fishing knife hint at his profession, but this would be wrong. The man rudely taps a new looking piece of parchment on the board, Goblins! The old sea dog scratches a swollen belly and shakes his head, Don’t those idiots have any idea how to keep this town safe! He turns back to face the rest, Hemlock knows where the goblins are attacking from. For Gozreh’s sake, take some men and go hunt them down! How hard can it be? Shalelu never has this kind of trouble keeping Goblins in check.
In plain view for all to see, on the wall nearest the entrance is a small cork lined board with the words, “Help Wanted” painted carefully in large bold letters at the top. A few scraps of parchment have been randomly tacked here; most scribed in Ameiko’s hand. Posted in plain view, and boldly covering up several older notices, is an announcement from Sheriff Belor Hemlock resurrecting Sandpoint’s Goblin Bounty. Filtering out the usual formality of the letter, the body of the announcement reads: ...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 for the group who can bring in the head of the Licktoads’ leader, Chief Gutwad.
Sitting at a long table, another man cuts in, Saull, Sheriff Hemlock is already doing everything he can. He just doesn’t have the men. Besides, I really don’t think it’s that simple, don't they have some sort of new weapon? Shorter in stature, Jiggs is older than Saull yet doesn’t look it. A well known retired merchant, Jiggs’ leather vest and velvet jacket suggests an easy life. Now a days, his memory is not what it once was. He spends his time helping out here and there, keeping himself busy by doing odd jobs. Jiggs snaps his fingers; trying to remember something.
Fireworks Jiggs. Word is the Goblins are using some sort of fireworks and you can't seriously believe they've learned to use them properly. Saull condescends.
Jiggs does his best to ignore Saull's jab. Yes, that’s it - noisy things. Say, wasn't there a group that went out after them? What was the name of that one guy? Jiggs taps the side of his head to once again jog his memory. Suddenly finding the name he was searching for, he exclaims, Kalib! Young fellow; carried that big sword with the extra long grip. You know it’s been more than a few days since he and his friends ventured out to the swamps. Have they returned yet? Anyone heard? Jiggs looks around the table at the others seated, looking for some news.
Fenra smiles welcomingly back at Rennyn and leans forward in her chair a little, allowing her attributes to be more easily admired. With an understanding glance at Jeryn's little 'habit', and a faux exasperated eye roll at Rennyn's statement she replies.
I would be very surprised if Kenan arrives in any kind of timely manner but I'm sure he wouldn't miss your exceptional company. She says with a wink.
That sounds very productive. She responds overly politely to Jeryn while looking at him in a way designed to make him blush again, then gives a little throaty laugh when he does.
In response to Rennyn's lament she draws his attention to the notice board. I'm sure you didn't miss the new reward being offered. Is this your idea of subtlety? Are you trying to draw us into something dangerous? her tone belies her words and the two men can tell that she is not at all opposed to engaging in a little danger, or almost anything else they can think of.
The door to the tavern opens quietly, though the ever present wind pulls at the drapes and causes the candles to flicker near the entrance. A solitary figure crosses the threshold dressed in simple attire. One might almost mistake him for a short very muscular man, except that the length of his legs, and the breadth of his shoulders clearly hint at his dwarven heritage. Astonishingly this dwarf has no hair of any kind. His face shaved as clean as the top of his head. As he turns to look at the ravings Saull the reasons become clear. One side of his head is badly burned. This has caused the skin to pull tight across his face and accentuating the bone structure beneath. The damage to his skin likely meaning that he could never grow a proper beard.
Kenan watches Saull intently as he complains about the goblins and their misbegotten fireworks. Then turns to the table where he sees the others seated. He nods quietly to Ameiko as he passes indicating that he would like his usual cup of tea brought to where the others are seated.
Sitting down next to Jeryn Kenan point out that several of the nuts seem to be not perfectly aligned with the others. I see I am just in time to listen to the evenings rant about goblins in the area. How very predictable. With a smile that seems to pull the one side of his face even tighter he thanks Ameiko as she sets his tea down in front of him.
So what else did I miss while I was meditating.
As the others nearby shake their heads, Saull waves off Jigg’s remark, Those guys were wimps! They couldn’t fight their way out of a corn field; what with their second hand knives. A piece of bread sail towards Saull’s head. Insulting adventurers in the Rusty Dragon is a faux pas and Saull's sarcastic tone has done little to endear him to the rest. Saull grins as he dodges the projectile and then sits down.
A shrill voice rises over the rest, It’s not just gobs! Wearing a large brimmed hat and an extravagant collection of scarves, the chubby man’s ruby cheeks show signs of poor health, There's a monster out there. Klaxle points an ominous ringed finger for emphasis. A retired bard, like Saull, Klaxle has taken up fishing as a past time but can still be persuaded to revive one of his famous compositions with a few gold coins.
Oh for cry’n out loud Klaxle, don’t start! The others at the table have heard this song and dance once too many.
Unabashed, the big man wheezes on, All us fishermen have seen it. But do you think the Mayor takes us seriously?!
Bah! Jiggs tosses his plate at the fat man. Immediately Ameiko's voice calls from the back, That'll be going on your tab Jiggs.
Sorry! Caught in the act, Jiggs momentarily sulks down in his seat then resumes, We all enjoy a good tale Klaxle, but boogey men? Seriously, that’s an old, unfounded story for kids. Jiggs snickers as he looks around the table.
Saull pipes in, What’s next? The Sandpoint Devil? He makes a mocking attempt at a scary face using his pointer fingers as horns over his ears, Or old Megus? Back to eat our children? A few of the patrons roar with laughter.
Its the Scarecrows! Hey! You remember those guys? adds in another.
FIIVE! the big man wails in protest over the growing laughter, All in this last year, Klaxle grimly taps a fat finger on the table; once for each missing person. He shakes his head as he tosses Jiggs’ plate back, The Soggy Monster’s out there and he’s real Jiggs…
The sound of Klaxle’s voice is drowned out as the regulars renew old arguments concerning the facts of each other's fiction.
As you patiently await your meals, the four of you sit in silence; content to soak up the Rusty Dragon's animated energy as the other patrons chat. At some point the conversations from the surrounding tables blend into the background and it is difficult to focus in on just one. After what seems like 30 minutes you notice Ameiko making her to your table. Behind her follow three large plates and four drinking vessels, all seemingly floating in mid air. She carefully takes the first plate and sets it in front of Jeryn. A thin disk of baked dough topped with a mixture of melted cheeses and thin slices of Shaonti spice sausage lays at its center. As she places it on the table, she watches Jeryn's expression. Nearly perfectly round and cut exactly into four slices, each with equal portions of cheese and sausage, the young man's 'usual' is certainly the most time consuming to prepare.
Next, Fenra's plate lands softly in front of her. Much simpler, it is a mixture of bite sized green vegetables, carrots and eggplant drizzled with Ameiko's own special creamy dressing. Another plate makes its way in front of the dwarf. Two small bowls capped in a thin veil of steam. In one bowl, whole grain rice topped with a sprinkling of fresh herbs. In the other, mixed enoki and maitake, floating in a delicious fish broth with seaweed and cubes of tofu. The pungent aroma tantalizes Kenan's thick nostrils. Ameiko catches the dwarf's eye and shrugs, You look hungry. Fresh pints of sour apple cider, ale and a fresh cup of black tea fill the remainder of your small table. Scooping up the previous vessels, Ameiko sends them floating off to the kitchen and pulls up an empty chair.
I don’t know about those guys, Ameiko points a thumb over her shoulder. Chuckling she adds, Still, some nights are worse than others. Sneaking a slice of eggplant off of Fenra's plate, the Tian beauty sits back to nibble, As much as I hate to admit it, Saull has a point. She leans in to speak privately with the four of you, Hemlock’s patrols haven’t done much to stop the goblins. We need more affirmative action. She gently pounds a fist on the table for emphasis. Trouble is, adventurers only pass through Sandpoint nowadays. No one ever stays more than a day or two before pressing on to places like Xin-Shalast. She rolls her eyes and finishes the legume. A hint of sarcasm in her voice betrays frustration. Don't get me wrong, I love these old guys. They're like family, you know? But let's face it, their days of adventuring are over. And I'm getting tired of reliving the old days or hearing what's going on in some other town. Ameiko's red lips pout for a moment as her eyes look to the door and then back. I'd rather hoped that other group would have returned by now. At least then there would be some new home grown tales to tell. Ameiko huffs a stray lock of hair away from her face and snatches up a carrot. In between bites she adds, Seeing you four gives me hope. You've got this spirit of enthusiasm about you. She smiles and licks some dressing from her fingers before pausing to give you all a quizzical look.
Umm, don't take this wrong, but you four don't have to dress up to come here. Ameiko's eyes trail over your adventuring attire as she teases, We may talk about adventuring here, but there's no dress code guys. Regardless of whether you share her humour, the matron chuckles, it's not like you four have done anything yet. Her jabbing remark suddenly turns into an excited question, Or have you!? Ameiko's eye's narrow, Spill it. Do you have something planned?
Fenra greets Kenan as when he makes his way to their table. In reply to his question teases, You just missed our waiting for you, as usual. With a little shrug she clarifies, But really you have missed nothing, also as usual.
Fenra thanks Ameiko warmly at the appearance of her food and seems not to notice the 'sharing', it is obviously a regular occurrence. She laughs at Ameiko's outburst. Are you running out of good tales to tell? she says with a grin. She tosses a couple of things from her plate into her mouth and says with mock seriousness as she pushes herself away from the table to stand, You caught me, I was about to head out to end this goblin menace myself after a fortifying meal. I see I can tarry no longer or you might entice some other young fool to try for my bounty. She flings her cloak dramatically around her then sits back down in her seat and laughs her throaty laugh again.
Jeryn rolls his eyes at Kenan and sighs. They are not out of alignment. They are in precise alignment according to density.He picks up an oddly shaped nut to make his point. See? Thin at one end and thick at the other, the center of mass is not exactly in the middle of the nut.
He stops his explanation as Ameiko arrives with their meals. He carefully inspects his food, as always, making sure it has been prepared properly. Satisfied that it is up to his standards, he thanks Ameiko heartily and prepares to dig in.
Before starting to eat, his mouth works into an uncharacteristic snarl and he says Goblins. Despicable creatures teeming in chaos and depravity. I am always up for putting those wretches out of their misery.
Kenan tilts his head at the mention of the soggy monster. I do not know if there really is something out there but many of the fisherman have commented on the creature. Surely where there is smoke there is fire.
Jeryn I see that you are aligning them based on density that is obviously clear I just felt that ordering them based on color variation would be more appropriate. With a shrug he smiles again at the arrival of the food and carefully, almost daintily consumes all of one bowl before finishing the other.
Kenan looks at Fenra a frown crossing his face at her mock display. Maybe we should look into this goblin threat. Shalelu would never condone the goblins harassing the townsfolk. Besides I yearn to have a chance to practice with my bow once again.
Faining surprise at Fenra's melodramatic show, Ameiko lets out a girlish squeal, Whooo! and joins Fenra in laughter. Shacking her head, she takes up another slice of eggplant and the hostess leans back in her chair to listen as Jeryn and Kenan discuss their nuts.
Fenra frowns slightly at Kenan, Always so serious my Stone, of course we must get your bow some action. She then addresses Jeryn, How about you, do your nuts need some action, I'm sure we can make arrangements in that department as well. she says with a wink and a suggestive tone.
Well you know I am always up for anything, and I have a few tricks up my sleeve. she displays her bare, shapely arms as apparent proof of this statement and then grabs a few more bites from her plate, beginning to fear she might not get any of it. I'm sure I can help keep your derrieres out of trouble, or at least make them all better after.
All evening she has been making occasional eye contact with a handsome young thing across the room. She decides that her current companions can manage without her and gives him a long slow smile. Turning back to her table she addresses the group. If you wish to take on this menace to the good folks find me tomorrow morning. Not too early of course, better give Jeryn a chance to use his quill, transposing his spells of course. She then rises gracefully from the table and gives everyone there a quick kiss on the forehead before sashaying slowly over to the table of tonight's chosen. After a few whispers and a little flirting they rise from the table and head out the door into the windy night.
Rennyn taps his empty mug upon Jeryn's as he makes his toast. That's the spirit!
Hearing Saull's and Jigg's spirited discussion, Rennyn stares at the table, tracing his finger in circles around a condensation ring left upon the surface of the worn wood. In an even tone he remarks, You pay your taxes because it is the law Saull. And until you take a more active role in solving the problem, I would be careful about running down those that are.
Rennyn grins at Fenra's directness before responding, No Fenra, much like yourself, subtlety is not my thing.
Standing, Rennyn goes over and looks at the messageboard. Turning to look back at the group he smiles broadly. Clearly he is interested.
Making his way back to the table just ahead of Kenan, Rennyn nods approvingly at the bread throwers attempt but takes no part in the ensuing ruckus.
As the plates of food are delivered to the table, and the others begin to dig in, Rennyn looks at the empty space in front of him. A glance at Ameiko is followed by a shrug as he reaches over and scoops up a few nuts from Jeryn's arrangement before popping them into his mouth.
A slight grimace creases his elven features at Ameiko's mention of Saull, but Rennyn remains silent. His features darken further at Ameiko's jab at his manner of dress, and he takes further umbrage at her comment about their perceived lack of accomplishments.
As the conversation turns back to the idea of dealing with the goblins. Rennyn states matter of factly, You should all know my feelings on the matter.
As Fenra makes her exit, Rennyn pushes his chair back as well, Meeting adjourned I guess.
Jeryn smiles and blushes deeply at Fenra's innuendo. His eyes follow her as she stands and walks away from the table. Licking his suddenly dry lips, he nods at Rennyn as he grabs a few nuts from the table. It would seem we are all of like mind. We had better get some rest, we will have a big day tomorrow.
With that Jeryn stands, thanks Ameiko once more, nods at Kenan and departs to ponder over his spellbook before retiring for the night.
She flings her cloak dramatically around her then sits back down in her seat and laughs her throaty laugh again.
Ameiko’s dark brown eyes widen. Seriously? You guys are going out there?! The hostess folds her arms and with a skeptical brow leans back in her chair to consider your sincerity. Her pointer finger taps the head of a snake tattoo peaking from under her blouse on her left upper arm. Masterfully done and very realistic, the snake depicted is known to very venomous. Minuscule specks of metal in the colorful ink reflect the ambient light in the room. Stare at it long enough and you might swear it moves on its own accord. Although tonight, most of her arm is sleeved, you’ve all seen the tattoo before and know the snake’s body coils down the length of Ameiko’s arm. A forked tongue flicks at her tanned skin. Ok. Sitting up, she rests her elbows on the table. Her expression is sober. Obviously you won’t head out tonight - that would be stupid. So, ‘cause I like you guys I’m going to let you in on a little information of my own. I’m expecting an old friend later this evening. Ameiko’s eyes roll up to the ceiling, Very late. If you guys are serious about this, make sure you come back here first thing in the morning. Shalelu doesn’t like wasting time but her advice is sage and I’d be remorseful if you didn’t get a chance to hear it.
Sudden, the wooden door to the Rusty Dragon bursts open. The howling wind outside threatens to blow out several of Ameiko’s candles but the man standing in the threshold soon wrestles the door closed.
Its happened again! A young stable hand from Hosk’s stables, Sandpoint’s famous Goblin Squash Stables, removes his cloak, Another caravan was just hit not two hours ago!
Disquieting murmurs echo across the tavern. With genuine concern etched upon his face, Jiggs inquires, Was there anyone hurt? What happened?
Three this time - quite badly too. The stable hand makes his way to the bar and straddles atop one of the stools there, Father Zantus was called out to give some aid. Settling himself down, the stable hand slaps down a few coins and nods to the barkeep for a pint. Not losing a beat, he turns to tell his tale, The Gobs hit Titus’ caravan with those fireworks of theirs. Scared the horses in’ta full blown panick they did - caused a great mess of things too. By the time Titus’ men got their wits about them an the horses settle down, the Gobs had disappeared. Taking up his drink, the young man sips from his mug, The escorts barely saw those gobs. In and out like a flash they was. ‘Cept for those three travelers, I reckon they saw’em. I mean, how else did they get hurt? He takes another long swig of ale then wipes his mouth on his sleeve, One of the guards told me the only thing missing was a pack of some cloth of some sort - Vernah was expect’n it.
Ameiko looks your way. Sounds like there’s work to be done. Don't forget, first thing in the morning. Standing from the table she walks purposefully to the kitchen. Turning her head, she calls over her shoulder, Don’t worry about your tab guys, something tells me you’ll be more than capable of settling up when you return.
Fenra has not quite had time to leave when the news arrives. She makes eye contact with Jerryn and calls to him as she leaves, Fine then, early it is. She nods to the others, winks at Ameiko and heads out.
The evening storm brought heavy rains. As the morning sun crests above Sandpoint, clear skies overhead are reflected like poka-dots in puddles of water. Above the Rusty Dragon, a trail of smoke ascends into the morning sky. One by one, a young group of adventurers arrives at the tavern's wooden door and crosses its threshold.
Inside it is darker than normal. The numerous candles on the tables have long since been extinguished and a layer of smoke drifts suspended in the air. Normally closed at this hour the Rusty Dragon shines brightest at night - Ameiko has rarely been known to be an early riser. Thin traces of sunlight penetrate the smoke stained windows to provide some illumination. In the centre, the usual fire casts flickering waves of light throughout the room.
Sitting at the counter is a beautiful woman clad in a fine beige cloak. The woman's finger absentmindedly traces the grain in the wooden countertop as she chats quietly with the tavern's matron. Clad in fitted ornate soft leather boots that rise above her knees, her long legs rest leisurely at the side of the barstool. Long pointed ears rise from long sandy blonde hair. Her brilliant blue eyes glance your way as you enter. Returning her attention to a tired looking Ameiko standing behind the counter, a hastily tied ponytail sways lazily with the movement of her head.
Ameiko's eyes light up with your appearance. She pulls a light shawl warming her shoulders tightly about her as she moves out from behind the counter to greet you, Oh good! I'm so glad you're all here! Ameiko stops beside the elf to make introductions, I believe some of you already know Shalelu! Shalelu lift's her head in greeting; a polite smile graces her lips.
I've told her you would be heading out to the swamps today, Ameiko's eyes betray a hint of excitement for the coming day. Say, are you guys hungry?
Fenra, her midnight blue cloak making her look like a remnant of the night sky, meets up with the others as they straggle into the tavern. She is surprisingly spritely given the unusually early hour for her and her late night entertainment. She is dressed very similarly to last night, a tight cloth bodice of a dark, rich purple colour accented with silver embroidery along her contours and some light weight scarves wrapped around her hair and shoulders. The main difference is that the long flowy skirt she wore last night has been replaced by a set of trousers in a purple so dark as almost to be black. She also carries a pack with, uncharacteristically, multiple weapons sticking out of it. A wrist sheath is also visible on her bare arm beneath her cloak.
She smiles and greets Ameiko and Shalelu, Good morning my Star, and Shalelu, how wonderful to see you again. Fenra eagerly accepts the offer of breakfast. She removes her cloak with her usual flourish and begins shoveling down a staggering amount of food while listening to what Shalelu has to offer.
The door to the kitchen opens and out steps Rennyn, a ruby red apple in hand. Ladies, he remarks along with a slight bow in greeting, before taking a bite from his breakfast. He looks exactly as he did the night before, with the only noticeable difference being the addition of his bow and quiver. Knowing him as you do, it is obvious that he likely never left the tavern and tranced away the late hours of the evening in some corner of the kitchen or larder.
Holding the apple firmly in his mouth, Rennyn begins rummaging through the bar while remarking over his shoulder, Fine morning for an adventure don't you think? What is it, Shalelu, that you wish to share with us?
Excusing herself, Ameiko disappears into the back. The smell of bacon and eggs soon drifts from the kitchen.
Standing, Shalelu smiles and quietly thanks Ameiko. As her cloak falls open, fine leather armor appears. Tailored to her every curve and embroidered with shining metallic studs, the leather corset tastefully accentuates the elf’s modest assets, while barely covering a well toned midriff. Her alluring legs are partially covered by a pleated leather skirt that stops mid thigh. Made of earth tone fabrics mixed with studded leather, it is of similar fashion to the corset. The patterns of earthen hues continue with leather gloves, currently held in her left hand, that when worn meld into gauntlets on her lower arms. Good morning.
The elf takes a moment to size each of you up. Well known throughout Sandpoint, Shalelu’s reputation commands respect. It’s funny how few tell of her beauty. When she speaks, her voice is clear, yet the tone is mildly condescending, as though giving a routine briefing. I can see that for some of you, this will be the first time you venture into Brinestump, so I’ll start there. The marsh may not be as large as the Mushfens farther to the south, but it is dense and tangled. It’s easy to get lost in the place. Unfortunately, no one’s made a really detailed map of Brinestump. She turns her head to the glance at the kitchen door. The curves of her hips are accentuated as she shifts her weight. The sound of crackling bacon fills the air, interrupted only by the clinking of plates and cutlery being sorted. Looking back to the group, the elf continues. There’s really been no need, since there’s not much of value within. I had spoken with Kendra a few years ago about getting one done. At the time she offered 300gp, but no one has bothered to take up the challenge. After these latest developments, I'll wager we could get substantially more. Shalelu raises a mischievous eyebrow as a sly smile emerges at the side of her mouth.
If anyone knows his way around the marsh, or where the goblins are calling home, it'll be Walthus Proudstump - halfling; good with snakes. Shalelu looks down and smiles at the thought of the self-appointed “warden” of the swamp. Recomposing herself she quickly continues, If memory serves, and it always does, a fishing trail leads from the Lost Coast Road directly to Walthus’s shack. He shunned normal life ages ago, but tell him I sent you to pay him a visit, he’ll be hospitable enough.
Hmmm, I'd imagined that at some point the Rusty Dragon closes for the night and everyone goes home.
However, since you are best friends with Ameiko, she'll probably look the other way.
Does this mean you didn't sleep?
I can offer some insight into Saull and Jiggs if this is the case.
Unfortunately, not sleeping has consequences...
At the first hint of Shalelu's tone, Rennyn stops his rummaging behind the bar and walks back into the kitchen to help Ameiko prepare breakfast.
Jeryn walks through the entrance just as Ameiko asks if people are hungry. Clad in adventuring gear, the only remarkable things about his attire are his long, grey polished staff - with white hand wraps and dozens of tiny rubies embedded within the head, and a large book-shaped sack he has strapped to his back.
Nodding to the others and shaking his head at Ameiko, he takes up a seat and listens quietly to Shalelu.
Kenan enters the tavern just as Ameiko leaves the main room. Dressed in a simple tan woolen tunic and dark brown leather breeches tucked into a pair of soft leather boots. Strapped to his right leg is a large quiver of arrows and his pack is thrown across his shoulders. His bow is unstrung and carried casually in his left hand.
He nods to the others of the group he pauses momentarily to give a deep respectful bow to Shalelu. It is always a pleasure to see you again mistress. he intones in a deeply formal fashion.
Turning he carefully sets his pack on the floor leans his bow up against and takes a seat anxious to hear what the others have to say.
A polite nod from the elf tells Kenan that his greeting is appreciated and returned in kind.
Shalelu notices Rennyn's displeasure with her attitude but does not react. Seeing that there are no questions as of yet, she continues, Now, concerning Goblins. All Goblins are crazy, and by crazy I mean stupid. Shalelu's eyes betray her disgust for the creatures. Folding her arms she continues, Their tactics are more spontaneous than organized. But occasionally a leader of sorts emerges and gets their act together. Her eyes scan the group as she speaks but come to rest on Kenan, That's when they become dangerous. Her eyes address the group once more as she continues, When last I checked, the goblins living in Brinestump were led by Gutwad. Based on the clan's past actions, Gutwad doesn't strike me as one of those leaders. And from what I've been told about the recent ambushes, I doubt there has been a change in leadership - save for one exception, their tactics seem the same. In this case, the clan has gotten their hands on some fireworks, although I have yet to determine from where. Goblins love fire. They probably think they've discovered the ultimate weapon. Her last remark is off the cuff and the elf rolls her eyes. This will make them braver and more aggressive. If you can, hunt them down one by one. Don't let them use their numbers to overwhelm you and be mindful of those fireworks. Finishing, Shalelu looks at the group and awaits any questions they may have.
Fenra takes in all the information Shalelu has imparted while consuming her bacon laden breakfast. After thinking for a moment she asks, Is there anything in the swamp other than goblins we may need to worry about? There has also been talk of some kind of mushy monster out there, have you heard anything about that? She continues eating while she waits for a reply.
Finishing her preparations, Ameiko shoves four tied boxes towards Rennyn, Well, if you going to loiter around in here, you might as well give me a hand taking these out. Skillfully grasping four plates, she makes her way back into the tavern and sets them down on the counter where a ravenous Fenra digs in.
A Mushy Monster? The elf consider's Fenra's question for a moment, There are all sorts of creatures living in and around Sandpoint. Most are illusive, but harmless. Shalelu shrugs, Some locals may even give them silly names. However, we share this world with other more foul creatures. In my experience there is a good chance there are more things than just Goblins and a half-ling living in that marsh. As to the nature of this Mushy Monster, I cannot say.
Do you have any idea how many goblins there might be in the swamp? Kenan asks while absently tracing the scars on the back of his hand.
Hard to say. Personally, I avoid getting close to any goblin village on my own. Taking a moment to nibble on some bacon, her eyes search the ceiling as she recalls some of her experience, If a village is prospering, it can number in the hundreds. Even so, given their love of fire, I did come across a clan that nearly wiped itself out playing with the stuff. The thought of it brings a smile to her face.
Normally, I prefer to shadow their patrols; move fast, keep out of sight and snipe them from a distance. Goblins fear what they can't see, a devilish grin appears, especially if it's killing them. Once I have them jumping at shadows, its time to move on to thin out the next clan. Unfortunately, I've been absent for some time and if Hemlock's men have not been actively searching for goblin patrols... Shalelu doesn't finish her sentence but gives a quick shrug, letting you fill in the blanks.
As you finish your breakfast, Ameiko presents you with four unique wooden boxes each neatly tied in a piece of cloth. The outside is painted in a black lacquer. Inside are three small trays that have been painted red. Stacked one on top of each other, each tray has been crammed with morsels of food: rice, a few slices of spicy Shaonti sausage and a cut apple. Enough for one meal. There is no charge, but she insists you return the boxes at the end of the day.
Fenra ensures that her plate is empty then accepts Ameiko's gift with a kiss on the cheek. She gathers her pack up and, raising a quizzical eye at the others enquires, Ready?
She thanks Shalelu for her time and knowledge.
Jeryn scowls while Shalelu talks about the goblins of the swamp. His eyes flicker in excitement for a brief moment when she mentions the tribe that nearly wiped itself out with fire.
Once Shalelu has completed sharing her knowledge, he thanks her.
He accepts Ameiko's gift with a nod and a sincere Thank you.
He responds to Fenra's question by standing, gathering his belongings, and giving her a smile and a nod.
The day is still young as the group leaves Sandpoint. Random puddles of water reflect the sun’s rays as you head south along the Lone Coast Road. Long strands of grass struggle to right themselves along the sides of the road after last night's pounding.
Brinestump Marsh is a relatively small region. Extending just over 2 miles at its widest point, its mass of thick vegetation can be easily seen from a distance. A light layer of mist usually clings to the tops of the trees but today it seems thicker.
The group soon finds itself at the first of two known trails leading into the swamps. No sooner do you see the trail through the thick vegetation than your noses are assaulted by the foul gases the marsh continually vents. Thankfully, a cool breeze from the Varisian Gulf to the west keeps this fragrance in check.
Further south, the road winds its way around the marshlands and rises up to the cliffs overlooking the marsh from the south.
Kenan accepts the package and simply nods in thanks to Ameiko. Gathering the package and the rest of his gear he follows the others out.
Fenra wrinkles her nose as the foul smell assails her nostrils. Let us find our knowledgeable halfling and see, if nothing else, if he has some secret to living with this stench!