Rommin bags a brace of pheasant, and a snap shot on the way home earns him a fat wood pigeon to round out his haul.
Ruhk, despite his discomfort, stalks a fine young white-tail buck. No antlers at this time of year, but fine eating.
Shalelu knows these woodlands intimately, and she hunts deer. Boars, she explains, are best hunted with dogs and a larger group. . SFor all her experience her luck is not good, and she barely matches Ruhk and Rommin's fine achievements.
"Ah, a glorious day. Something for the pot tonight, and more to preserve for the trail. Ready to head back?" Shalelu says. On the way back to Sandpoint, she finds a moment to talk to Ruhk discreetly.
Savah sucks air through her teeth in the manner of traders since time immemorial, as she looks over Tsutami's blade. "Whooo. That's a mighty fine blade, and a lovely piece of steel. Pretty work on the hilt too, to hold a message scroll and still give a well balanced grip. So I got two words for you. Yes, I can fix it. No, it won't be cheap - not to do it justice."
Savah considers for a moment more, "Couple a options. I can put on a simpler wooden hilt, and rebalance the blade a bit. That'll take a day and run you about 100 shiners. Or, I can do a proper job of restoration, good as the day she was forged. That's more like two days and 300 gold."
"What'll it be? I know my preference, but you're the customer."
"No worries, I think I would remember doing that, and hand to heaven, Ruhk puts one hand on his heart, I have not got so drunk that I would have done it without remembering."
For a moment, Ruhks smiles do slip.
"Besides, the itching is strange enough, but it's the eyes that worry me, the sun seem so strong, and yet nobody else is bothered."
Abadar's perfection would demand no less then its complete restoration. Take the two days and I will pay the 300 Gold upon your completion of the work, Savah.I look forward to seeing you in two days time.
He smiles,
I want to tell her of the duel that I fought to recover her family heirlooms. I want to show her that I am worthy of her trust to take up the broken sword and continue to protect her, the heir of her family.
He reddens and speaks quietely,
In confidence, I want to use this ballad as a gift to spark our relationship as I will soon profess my love for her. Even if she spurns my advances, I will still maintain our friendship and guard her life with my own. That, I swear by Abadar's grace.
Shaking her head slowly, Kelistra lets Malcolm's words sink in. The young bard takes her mandolin and starts picking out a tune. The melody is similar to the one she played during Malcolm and Tsutami's duel, but the rhythm is slower.
"I can sing of the duel," Kelistra says quietly. "And how you risked your life for honor, valor, and your love for a beautiful maiden. Recovering the Kaijitsu treasures was a happy consequence of your victory, not your motive, so I'll sing it as such."
Setting aside her mandolin, Kelistra leans close to Malcolm and looks him in the eye. "That much I can sing about. Saying that Ameiko is the maiden you fought for is your challenge."
I will gladly undertake that task, Kelistra. And, thank you so very much. I will have the sword repaired in two days time. Will you have the ballad completed in that time? I do not want to rush your task.
Marduzi shakes his head as he leaves Savah's with Malcolm, "Negotiation Malcolm. Merchants like Savah actually get a kick out of it. I think we'd better set you to working on that ballad with Kelistra so you don't give the map to the Glassworks out of sentimental pity for the lives lost there when the goblins came marauding a few years ago."
When he sees Kelistra he grins, "I think Malcolm is so smitten he has forgotten all of his sense. When you need a break from that ballad mind coming with me to the Glassworks to see what we can get for the crystals and information about where to find them. I'm sure we could use a little more gold to help prepare for this journey."
"I'll have something ready by the time your sword's fixed," Kelistra says. "I just hope Ameiko appreciates something she didn't write. In the meantime, I'll be glad to help get a decent price from the glass blowers. We should also think about getting some trade goods before we set out. As Sandru says, you'll always find new markets on the trail. Hmmm... For a shop in a small town on the edge of nowhere, they make some good stuff at the glass works. Perhaps we could trade the map for glass."
Forgive me, Marduzi. You are correct. I am not myself. However, since the Ballad is on its way to being a work of art and the sword is under repair, then I will accompany the two of you. I will remain silent, however, as I watch the two of you get a good price for us. maybe I can garner something from your expertise.
"Heh, about all I know if that you never take the first offer. If you've come to your senses, I'd much rather have you and Kelistra speak. My skill lies in helping us prepare for a journey. There were always others in the caravan better suited to the finer points of negotiation."
"Kelistra, you raise an interesting idea about trade though I worry we may be going from nowhere to nowhere. Unless we pass through Riddleport where would we trade the glass?"
Iralynash spend the day finishing his bussiness in Sandpoint. He visit the Bottle Solutions in the morning to say goodbye to Nisk Tander and do some shopping around town during the rest of the day.
Shalelu chats amiably with both Rommin and Ruhk as they return to Sandpoint. Various shopping expeditions go well, with purchases made and sales agreed.
The days pass in a pleasant blur of activity, and soon the time for Sandru's expected return is upon you. Evening finds no sign of home, and an anxious Koya waits at the North Road, watching for approaching caravan lanterns.
Sense Motive:
If successful interest,
Diplomacy:
Malcolm accompanies Kelistra and Marduzi to the Glass Works for the presentation of the map in exchange for gold.
We have in our possession a rendering of the caverns below these works. We would be willing to part with such an item for a fair price.
Diplomacy:
After the sword is repaired and the Ballad complete, Malcolm presents both to Ameiko with the aid of Kelistra. After her performance of the Ballad, Kelistra, at Malcolm's request politely leaves the two of them alone. Malcolm unsheathes the repaired sword and falls to his knees. With his head bowed, he raises the sword horizontally placed in both hands to Ameiko.
Ameiko, My Lady, I have dueled for your safety and honor. With this reforged sword and the guidance of Abadar, I pledge to protect you on this trip and everafter, if you will allow it. You have my sword and you will always have my heart.
"Yes, I believe we've cleared out all of the threats, but you might want to hire some guards when you go. We fought a number of large spiders near the entrance and something like giant clear bladders in the water where we found the crystals. Here." he points to the map. "Not to mention the goblins and other things in the swamp."
"The spiders and other creatures really shouldn't be a hindrance," Kelistra adds as she plays a soothing tune. "Just the sort of thing to keep apprentices on their toes."
Later, Kelistra performs the Ballad of Malcolm's Duel in the Dark for the ballad's hero and Ameiko.
Jordan hangs out with Kel. He tries to point out how important a source of crystals may be, but is unconvincing.
"Kel, nice song."
Azmythe tries to spend some time hanging with Jordan. More appropriately, Enoch wants to spend time studying with Jordan while Azmythe tries to befriend Gooney.
Well, I didn't craft that tale to not get it out there...
Ruhk will take the chance to entertain the guests at the Rusty Dragon in the evening with the tale of daring do and high adventure.
"...and THAT'S when I died! Honest to goodness, as sure as I'm standing here."
"Well. A most interesting discovery. The map seems legible, and the Sherrif confirms your story of goblin slaying so you have some credibility when you claim to have rid the cave of creatures." She spares you a considering glance, then pulls ink and pen towards her, and writes briefly.
"I am authorized to offer you 500 gold pieces in return for the map and you assignment to us of all future extractions from the crystal deposits. I trust that meets your expectations?"
Kelistra's muse seems influenced by the Tien form of Tsutami's sword and Ameiko's treasure chest. Her composition is stark and spare and quite unlike the rich ballads of Varisia.
swords raised
senses heightened
tempered minds
command cold steel
glimmering in death's lightsharpened by intention
the warrior's code
restricts and defines
a final test
a struggle for honorwhat is lost
in winning
what is won
in losinga parry for a thrust
a counter for each form
now it comes
the air sings
as the blades dance
precision coupled
with intensityas the final stroke connects
spirit
soaring into the sky
release
the samurai's soul
Ameiko is charmed, "Kelistra, that is quite some talent you have. I look forward to hearing more of your work on the road! And Malcolm, that was a brave act. Many, even of the brave, would have balked at single combat when they are surrounded by such friends. My thanks, again."
Ameiko, My Lady, I have dueled for your safety and honor. With this reforged sword and the guidance of Abadar, I pledge to protect you on this trip and everafter, if you will allow it. You have my sword and you will always have my heart.
Ameiko smiles, perhaps a little sadly, and says, "Malcolm, I am grateful for your friendship and your sword. As to hearts, I beg you to leave that discussion for another day. We are about to embark on a journey into the unknown past of my family and the unknown future that awaits us all. I do not wish to be distracted by hearts, however sweetly offered."
She is firm in what is, for all the kindness, a clear refusal.
Shalelu replies with a full-throated laugh. "Oh, you have the wander-lust alright; sure as a snow goose in spring. We'll be on the road soon enough, when Sandru arrives and we can resupply his caravan. Which we've made a good start at!" She gestures at the game you've successfully hunted.
It's a small crowd tonight, but pretty and fascinated by your tale of death and daring.
"That's amazing! How did you get back to Sandpoint?"
"You can't stop there... Jak, another beer for Ruhk, so long as he finishes his story."
Jak stands behind the bar and hands out drinks and gap-toothed grins in equal measure.
Pausing to grin at the crowd, building a little suspense, Ruhk tilts his head back and drains the tankard fully before continuing.
"Well may you ask, because at this point things did seem rather bleak, did I mention that the spiders not only were as large as a fully grown draft horse? Not only that, but the web they spun felt icy cold to the touch, something I found out well enough when I was covered from head to toe in it."
Pausing for effect, Ruhk lowers his voice a shade.
"I could feel myself slowly slipping away...and THAT'S when Marduzi got mad!
And you know him, he is always eager to show that bigger is better, even OUTSIDE the bedroom.
If you get a chance to see his sword, look for a small notch just above the hilt, he swung that blade so hard that he chipped it against the carapace of the spider."
Malcolm smiles broadly at Ameiko's reaction, and as he stands, expertly sheathes his sword.
I am honored to guard your safety, and Abadar has smiled upon me to have your friendship, even if hearts are left out, for now. I look forward to our journey and all that must be discovered, may Abadar guide us.
Jordan studies magic with Azmythe and familiar, attempting to learn as many spells as possible.
"Azmythe, I think magic is best shared. I think we can easily handle the parties arcane needs. I tend to be as subtle as a hammer, but these new spells will give me a subtle side."
Marduzi grins and raises a tankard to Ruhk while wondering what carapace means.
Much to Koya's relief Sandru's caravan eventually arrives only three days late. Sandru sends his employees off to unload the wagons and stable the houses, and goes in search of his friends with his customary swagger.
"Brinewall? That's a fair step. Still you know what I always say, anything for a lady in need. It'll take a couple of days for us to rest the oxen and resupply before we get underway. And we might need a couple extra wagons with all these passengers. But I'm sure they'll pull their own weight around the camp. Better had, anyways. No loafers!"
Savah the weaponsmith presents the repaired sword to Malcolm. Cleaned, polished and rebalanced the slightly curved blade reveals its stark beauty. Savah says, "I asked Ameiko to translate the inscription on the old hilt, and our in-house enchanter investigated the enchantment for you. All part of the service."
The next day, Ruhk will go down to market and look for a masterwork backpack and a set of matched hunting knives of sharp edge and fine balance.
I'll...I'll keep one, and give her the pack and the other one...
Gee, I wonder if she'll like these? It was always so much easier to give women presents when all you needed as a bit of jewellery.
Azmythe offers Koya the fan with the map on it. "I thought you might like this. A goblin vandalized it on the one side, but the other is still pretty"
Agitated by the prospect of traveling again and looking for something other then the taverns to keep himself occupied Iralynash spend a day gathering information about the northen trail to Brimwall among the town dwellers and travelers.
On he next day he decides to help Sandru with the preparations for the new trip.
Hello Sandru, how was the road? Koya was getting worried.
Making himself usefull while indulging in some small talk. Do you have any news from the north?
Jordan looks around after studying with the familiar.
"We ready for more?"
Koya grins broadly at Azmythe, "Oh bless. That's gorgeous art, Minkai or something close to it. And the treasure map just adds spice and a bit of a story." The old lady gives you an impulsive hug.
Once Sandru’s caravan is prepared and ready to go, Ameiko leaves her manor in southern Sandpoint in the care of her house staff and makes sure that her employees are ready to handle running business at the Rusty Dragon. Koya and Shalelu have no great responsibilities but say their farewells in preparation for a long and perhaps perilous journey.
Sandru explains that the journey to Brinewall takes the caravan from Sandpoint up along the Lost Coast Road, passes through the villages of Galduria and Wolf ’s Ear, cuts through the northeastern reach of Churlwood, and eventually reaches the northern town of Roderic’s Cove at the half way mark. "Then we'll see," he says, "couple of options after that."
As you set out the day is clear and bright, and Koya predicts fair fortune for all; for that day at least. A crowd of excited children wave you off as you begin the great journey north to Brinewall and your destiny.
Ruhk will ride to the front, ready to head out to begin scouting, before he does however he gathers a bit of courage and rides over to Shalelu.
"Say Shalelu...when we were out hunting, I noticed some of your gear is a bit worn...and you know, it may be some time before we get a chance to resupply, so I got you something."
Here Ruhk hands over the masterwork backpack and the skinning knife.
"Eh...you know, next time we have a competition it will help keep the playing field level and all..."
Come on, come on! You're acting like a dope here man! Get a grip!
"Uh...anyway, I should be off...we both should since we're both scouts right? So uh...see you later."
Halvor can take another role if needed before his healing skills are needed.
Marduzi seems to be in particularly good spirits as the caravan heads out, happy to be on the road again. Together with Smoke, he assumes a familiar role of an outrider for the caravan, ranging ahead and occasionally to the sides and back to watch for any dangers approaching.
Shalelu accepts the gifts gravely, ignoring Ruhk's stumbles. "Kind as an autumn hedgerow you are, Ruhk. Thank you." She lopes ahead, back straight and eyes alert.
Sandru has a map and is happy to share it with Azmythe. He points out the route he's planning, and seems keen to discuss the state of the roads and the perils and pleasures of travel.
The first days and nights pass unevenly fully as everyone settles into their new roles in the caravan
After a scant handful of easy days the weather closes in. Rain lashes down, whipped under hoods and shelters by the skirling winds. Nights remain comfortable lit by fire and friendships, but the the days are long and chill.
Ruhk and Shalelu notice a fallen tree blocking the road, perhaps felled by the strong winds.
Damnit...I buggered that up, look at her, that's no way to build a relationship...
Jordan attacked organizing a caravan like most endeavors, he went to the library and did research. He hired five merchants, two wainwrights, and two cooks. He bought two more covered wagons for the larger entourage, and found someone to put a ballista in it for him.
After stocking up on stores, trade goods, and repair kits, he paid the workers and had enough to carry them through two paydays.
"I hope we do well. This is my first time organizing a caravan."
Ruhk strokes his cheek for a moment, noticing that he once more sports a slight growth.
If I asked dad he would say to ignore her, if it was mum she would say I should make amends...since it IS a woman this is all about I think mum may have the better idea.
Pondering what to say for a moment, Ruhk decides that to go against his natural inclinations might just be the smart thing to do.
With that in mind he rides after Shalelu, intending to try and sort this out right away.
"Listen...I'm sorry, I came off as very arrogant there. I wanted to give you a present to show my appreciation. You are a great hunter, and competing with you means I learn a lot, I KNOW I have ways to go before I match your skills, and I apologize sincerely if I made it seems like I don't know this."
Here Ruhk pulls out his own matching skinning dagger and shows it to Shalelu.
"See? I bought a matching set, to show that I'm learning from you. The backpack...well, I just thought you might find use for it."