"I've been thinking of heading back out on the road again soon too Mukluk. Once I've made my own reacquaintances. Maybe we should try traveling together again...it can't possibly be as eventful as last time." György laughs loudly at the thought. "You still look a little worse for wear from that battle Sir Gavin. Would you like me to read one of the scrolls and heal you further or see how you're doing once you've rested overnight?"
You don't know what he's been through to judge him like that. And you a man of honour too? Perhaps manners aren't something you're taught at knight's school?"
Sir Gavin frowns listening to Corvus.
"It is true I have only just met him and know nothing of his background. I am a man of honour, and trained by my father in the manners and treatment due to a comrade in arms."As one who has fought side by side with you against undead horrors, I felt and feel that his words to me were... to say the least, wrong. And were he a belted Knight himself, he and I would be having an far more serious discussion about courtesy."
He bows to Gyorgy, but waives off healing by scroll or wand.
"They should be saved, as they are not easily replaced."
Perception Keeping an eye on our surroundings and path.
Perception To hear the conversation concerning himself.
****
Jean stops walking and waits for Sir Gavin the rest to catch up to him.
Speaking angrily "SIR! No man or other person shall lay a belt upon me again, otherwise they will quickly find a rope around their neck, their entrails upon the floor and my dagger in their heart."
Jean throws his hat to the ground pulls and ties his hair back in a tail with a leather thong (displaying the ragged scar tissue of the remains halves of his ear), loosens his leathers and pulls it over his head, uses his dagger to slice his shirt down the front allowing it to fall off his back.
Spreading his arms wide, dagger in his right hand, he slowly turns around in a circle. A crisscross pattern of wealed scar tissue covers his back, purple and ugly compared to his otherwise fair skin. Carved in the flesh of his chest and arms, distended and stretched symbols or letters appear to have been inscribed by blades into his skin, as if people had marked their names onto him. No hair grows for about 3 inches below his wrists as what may have been perceived as shadows before are revealed to be ropes scars as if someone had been suspended by his hands in the air.
Touching Sir Gavins chest with his left pointer finger with the volume of his voice slowly increasing with every word "Before now I spent my life treated as less than a slave by a band of humanists with nothing but contempt for those of a different race, believing any thinking creature who was not a [u]HUMAN[/u]" the most utter contempt is thick in his voice with that one word, " was less than garbage. I was tasked as a servant would be, beaten and whipped for their pleasure with no cause of offense... Jean moves closer to Sir Gavin to whisper (still loudly enough for any with the immediate area to hear) And in the dark of the night, being I was still described as fair and beautiful despite the virtue of my elven blood...I would be chased until captured, for there is no place to really run on board a ship out at sea, and have...'THINGS' done to me, unspeakable things...and those who caught me would carve their names into my flesh and pour sea water into the fresh wounds. The Captain however, Captain Patrick von Steinbruuk, he would only use me, beat me and rape me...then toss me out of the cabin, too weak to defend myself more, for he did enjoy my struggles so much, allow the crew easier access to my naked body."
Stepping back about 10 feet and tossing his dagger into a patch a ground between them.
Shouting to the heavens "SO! THAT is my story. Raised by men who spoke of 'honor' and 'righteousness' as you do. Treated verbally by men as you spoke to Mukluk and myself upon our first meeting. Should I have ANY reason to expect any better from a man who cloaks himself in those trappings?"
Jean will wait for Gavin's next words and actions.
***
Any with a DC 5 Heal check can see that all these scars are quite aged, scars upon scars in fact, but all physically healed. However, none look fresher than about 6 months.
"Those traveling with you now have shown me kindness and a sense of comradeship, as did others back in Sandpoint. They have invited me to join them on this quest to help against a scourge to the town..."..
|
The sun has gone down by the time you emerge from the cavern and thanks to your clearing of the path earlier the trip back to the Licktoads Village remains uneventful though you do take note of a few extra skeletons lying about the ground, forming a path from the caverns to the village. As you near the village, you can't make out any signs of activity. Nothing seems to be happening. As you enter the encampment, you see a mass of skeletal corpses and several dead goblins. It would seem Tsutamu's influence over the skeletons had sent these to raid the village before you defeated him and stopped his influence.
From the chief's raised hut, you hear chittering voices in Goblin and movement. It is nighttime in the swamp, so most light - even that of the moon choked out by the trees - remains almost non-existent.
Perception
Scouting the way ahead on the next day...
Perception
The next morning, Gavin looks out over the field of the dead.
"I had never thought to pity a goblin, but this..."
"This may well have been brought upon them by their own actions. Not justifying it, but a thing to keep in mind. I hope we can convince them to see the result of their actions and choose a different path."
Treygan then steps forward and calls out,
Mukluk begins to count goblin ears as the party walks near the village, each pair additional gold in his pockets.
"Lookee that! Them skellies did a lot of our work for us. We just might profit more off this than we thought!" Mukluk mutters. "Heck, it might be our actions that brought this on...but not sure how that head-dead skelly was able to do all this."
Mukluk draws his pick as Treygan calls for the chief.
"Their blood has been split and probably boiling now, no telling how they will react."
The door to the chief's hut opens and out steps a band of four goblins. Each one is uniquely attired in what appears to be goblin adventuring gear. It's a strange sight to be sure. One wears tattered white robes and sports an unusually wide balloon-shaped head and tends to scream when she addresses her companions. Another bears horrible pustules on his face and carries a small cage that sports a spider. The third appears rather normal save for the fat toad that sits comfortably atop its head. Finally the last one's face is entirely concealed by a skeletal mask of some sort and he carries a small round object in his grasp. The one with the toad steps forward and begins to speak in Goblin. After a long speech, all falls silent and the one carrying the spider steps forward, pushing the toadbearer back. "Poog say he in charge for mighty chief is dead but he not speak in tongue of longshanks. I, Chuffy, speak longshanks' tongue. Why you here? Is chief of skellymen dead?"
"Yes, chief of skellymen dead. We kill skellymen, Licktoads not kill dogs and babies - that was the agreement."
Nodding in response to Corvus, the spiderbearer turns to his companions and mutters some things in Goblin, likely translating. The one with the skull on his head and the balloon-headed one begin chattering quickly in Goblin and it appears as if the three are arguing for a brief moment when the toadbearer called Poog cuts them off. He whispers a few things in Goblin to the each of them and then has the one called Chuffy translate. "Longshanks not worry. No Licktoads left to kill dogs and babies." With that, they collect their belongings and begin to climb down from the hut, the one with the skull falls about halfway down and the others, save for the toadbearer who always seems stern, chittering laughter at him as he stands. They give the lot of you a wide berth as they leave the village.
When Chuffy turns around to converse with his allies, the gist of the argument is:
Chuffy: "The Longshanks say they killed skellymen and that Licktoads no longer attack dogs and babies."
Skullbearer: "That stupid! I kill all dogs and babies I want! I talk Longshanks! I tell them Mogmurch burn them and eat their babies!"
Reta (Balloonhead): "Mogmurch right. Tell Longshanks no! I bet they came here when we gone and kill Licktoads and chief then bring bones to say skellymen to blame!"
Poog: "Mogmurch, you not talk. Chuffy lucky to talk. For now, all you shut mouths. Chuffy speak Longshanks. One of them may speak us. No matter. Zarongel tell me the longshanks not lie. They not bring skellymen. If they kill Chief and other Licktoads, why they come back? Even they did, we not kill them. Too many even with woman. With Licktoads dead, we must find other home. Tell them, Chuffy, that Licktoads gone. Longshanks dogs and babies safe for now."
As the goblins turn to leave, Treygan stands and watches, amazed at handling the goblins without bloodshed.
While the situation is indeed unusual, nothing appears to be amiss and it seems to Treygan as if this particular group of goblins is telling the truth. Whether the death of their tribe, the matter that they were outnumbered, or Corvus' diplomatic capabilities, the goblins leave with no trouble or complaint, leaving their village solely in the hands of Sandpoint's newest heroes.
Mukluk watches the goblins depart.
"Whatdoyeahmean they are leaving? They taking them ears with them?" Mukluk asks incredulously. "It's gotta be some sort of trick. Them goblins are tricksy."
Mukluk looks around, staying put, until the goblins leave-leave.
"Well, let's take a looksee around and make sure this place is safe. Wouldn't want others to come here looking for shelter and getting caught in a trap set up by the goblins. And, besides, we have ears to harvest."
Mukluk will guide a Detect Magic-enhanced search of the buildings and bodies (both goblin and skeletal), looking for traps, loot, and things of interest.
"Say, Jean, you wanna help me harvest them goblin ears?" Mukluk asks, holding up a sack.
Jean will glare at the dwarf collecting ears....
But he will happily take his time searching the bodies and village for anything of value or use.
"Muk, the ears are all yours....they're just not quite right...there are 2 specific ones I want for my collection....."
Jean will smile manically and get to work.
Perception
Treygan turns to Mukluk, "I don't personally like it either. The goblins have done some terrible things to Sand Point over the years. But this time, they paid greatly for their actions. I hope that those four will learn from our kindness, but at least by themselves they won't be able to do much harm. And they seemed sincere when departing. For now, let's make sure there's nothing else dangerous in this village, and collect the ears. Plus it would probably be best if we bury both the goblins and the skeletons."
Treygan gets to assisting in the work. "Oh, and remember if you see the body of the chief, we still need his head to turn in for proof of his death to Hemlock."
Investigating the camp proves sickening. The total encampment has been wasted and dead goblins scatter the village: women and children included. If collected, the right ear of each corpse nets you a grand total of 160 dragons not including the 50 dragons for the head of the chief, found dead in his chamber along with his advisors and courtesans. It takes quite some time to gather up and bury all the bodies, but the job does end up getting done. Upon looting the remainder of the village, the only fruit that bears itself is located in the chief's hut along with several stacks of fireworks that match those from the cavern. While you can't be sure, you start to piece together as a group that the goblins took something from the skeletons who promptly returned for it (likely the chest you now carry) though clearly the goblins retained some of the fireworks from the haul. This is likely what they were using to attack Sandpoint with. After retrieving the items, Tsutamu and a small band of his skeletons remained behind to protect the treasure while the rest of his men came to finish the goblins off. This seems to be the most logical solution to the events of the past few weeks.
(5) +1 Animal-Bane Arrows
(2) Potions of Cure Light Wounds
You also find two more skyrockets that match those from the chest as well as a masterwork chain shirt and a masterwork composite longbow. Both are made for medium creatures. You find nothing else among the dead village of the Licktoads.
Mukluk mutters some arcane words and examines the items of interest.
Take 10 Spellcraft = 18.
"Oh yeah...lookee here, this is one of magic arrows. Any of youse want 'em?" Mukluk offers the arrows around.
"And 2 more potions of curification. We'll need those for the next time Sir Gavin gets in a fight. And does anyone want that chain shirt?"
Mukluk, satisfied with the work that they have done (including a trepination of every skull), leads the way back to Sandpoint.
Being somewhat familiar with the marsh by now, you make your way out safely. The treasure slows you down a bit, but that's also nothing new for you. Toshiro seems to be a bit better but sometimes chooses weird paths to follow you, and when you finally reach the Lost Coast Road he even bows to a passerby before continuing. Other than that he claims to be okay, but only by a bit.
The journey to Sandpoint take you a few hours, and coupled with the time you needed in the marsh it is early evening when you finally reach the settlement. The people you meet look at you with curiosity, but mostly refrain themselves to just looking; there are a few nods here and there and a share of pointing out Toshiro, but nobody stops you on your way to the Rusty Dragon Inn. You see a couple of wagons in the backyard telling you that one of the few caravans that come through on occasion got here safe and sound.
There aren't many people inside though; only a handful of usual customers in the further part of the inn and the three people you've already met sitting at the long table: Ameiko and Shalelu, in the company of a man and older woman unknown to most of you. As they see you enter, they immediately beckon you closer, flooding you with cheerful welcomes as you approach.
"Now look who's here! And I see you've got yourselves a pretty chest. You had to drag it all the way down here by yourself, hadn't ya?" The man proclaims jovially while standing up to greet you with a friendly bow. "How it even is that there're so many of them scattered about in this gods-forsaken land?" He happily shakes the hands of those willing and bows low as he plants a kiss on the back of Corvus' hand.
"Everyone," Ameiko introduces, "This is Sandru Vhiski, a prominent caravan leader and personal friend, and this lovely woman here is Koya Mvashti, daughter of the late Madame Niska. Sandru's come with my monthly delivery and we were just chatting on the events of the past few weeks. Anyhow, word travels fast here and you've had quite an adventure, or so I've been told." Ameiko's face brightens with a warm smile.
"The goblin threat is taken care of, I presume? And with a price of no more than nicks and scratches, good." Shalelu says as she steps forward to stand in front of Treygan, the faintest hint of a smile breaking through. "This time I can greet you properly without pressing matters at hand, even though it is not my home. Treygan. I am glad to see you." She nods at the paladin.
"Sheriff Hemlock apologizes for not being able to be here, but he's attending to other business currently. He left me in charge of whatever reward or recompense you may be seeking, though I hope one of you will spin the tale for us here before we delve too much further into gossip, rumor, and hearsay. I have too much of that with my nightly patrons." Ameiko continues.
"By Desna listen to you all. They are all worn out and you keep jabbering before they've even sat. Give them some time to take care of themselves, then they can join us here. It's not like we will run away or something." Koya interrupts the tide of greetings and questions. "I'm glad to meet all of you as well kids, but if you want to sit at this table, you could really use some refreshing."
"Sorry, Koya," the group apologizes and falls silent, allowing your group a moment of respite and response.
Mukluk smiles at Koya and cleans his beard, brushing off the dust of the trip as he approaches Koya. After wiping his hand on his armor, he offers it to Koya with introduction.
"Greetings, Koya. I don't know if you remember me. I'm Mukluk Muletender...I...I was a friend of Niska. I haven't had a chance until now to come pay my respects. She was an amazing woman and a true friend. I'm sorry for your loss," Mukluk says with both sincerity and a still wounded loss.
Sir Gavin approaches the table and kneels to Ameiko. He takes his helm off and shakes his sandy hair loose again, giving her a penetrating look.
"I am honored again to accept the hospitality of your house Miss Ameiko."
He rises again.
"On my quest I met with these heroes in the swamp after tracing the origin of the monster 'Soggy' to a witch on the shores there. I might have run it down, but it encountered them before me and fell to them.
"I followed a map I found in the witches home, and I met these heroes when I ran afoul of some skeletons and they came to my aid. We traced the skeletons to a cave and fought them. It was very strange; they wore armor and weapons of a completely unknown style, and their leader actually spoke! He named himself Tsutamu and challenged me to duel and I accepted. It was close to beating me when it gave up and killed... destroyed itself."
He shook his head.
"I still cannot make sense of it. But more than that, we found in the hilt of it's blade a letter. In it, it speaks of your family name."
He brings forth Tsutamu's blade and the letter for Ameiko to examine.
Treygan returns Shalelu's smile, "The licktoads hvae been dealt with, though they brought their end upon themselves from the looks of things."
Treygan waits for Sir Gavin to finish. "It looks like the goblins had gotten the fireworks from that chest inside Tsutamu's cave. His, um, men attacked the goblins before we even arrived. After we found them, we came back and it looks like Tsutamu's last action was to send his men back to the goblins to wipe them out. Only four of them were left, and they agreed to leave Sand Point alone."
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György smiles broadly at Sandru's greeting. He walks across the tavern floor and grips the man's hand strongly, bringing his other hand around to grip his forearm. "It's good to see you again Sandru!" He then turns to Koya and envelops her in a big hug. "Koya. It's been years. Thank you so much for introducing me to Pesha. I was such a mess back then. He made a big difference."
But when Ameiko speaks again, you see György shyly lower his chin and stare at the floor although anyone watching sees the spark of happiness in his eye at her kind words and a flush at her smile.
When Koya makes her suggestion, he nods and taking Toshiro's arm, guides the poor man into a booth while signaling for a cup of tea. He turns back to the group, expecting everyone else to follow Koya's lead when Sir Gavin jumps in. A different sort of spark flares in György's eyes. By Desna's lights, he likes her too.
György claps Sir Gavin on the back and releases a deep satisfying laugh, "Sir Gavin. We'll get to the blade soon enough. A good tale is like a finely brewed cup of tea. Ameiko. Sandr. Koya. Shalelu. Have a seat and let's have some drinks. I fear Sir Gavin's haste has left out some of the best parts."
"Koya, I'd appreciate it if you could have a look at poor Toshiro. He seems to have caught something in the swamp that is beyond my ability to heal. I hope the tea is enough, but I worry it is more serious. Maybe you've run into something like it before."
Once everyone has had a chance to sit down and order, György begins. "It was the six of us at the start. Mukluk. Treygan. Jean. Corvus. Toshiro. Myself. We left Sandpoint full of confidence and bravado. We decided to start by meeting the Swamp Warden. Walthus. Most of you have probably been to the swamp before. But, if you haven't the ground if soft and wet, the trees encroach on the paths. And there are foul bugs everywhere."
György checks to see if Koya is having any more success with Toshiro. "Brave Toshiro tried to help us all. He told stories of the 'Heroes of Sandpoint' and taught us techniques to fight off the mosquitoes. Perhaps he was really saving the rest of us by calling them all to him instead. Out of the murk and muck, we saw the Warden's hut. All looked well at first..."
György allows the dramatic pause to hang there for a moment and reaches for his pint, swallowing a mouthful to wet his vocal chords again. "What fools we were. We called out for Walthus. At first there was no answer. And then the Warden emerged...or so we thought. The halfling looked exhausted. He seemed to be in pain. His clothes were filthy. It wasn't until Toshiro spoke that it all came together. Something was wrong. We confronted with him. And then he attacked Mukluk. Toshiro grabbed him and the battle turned quickly, leaving a hairless, leathery creature dying on the doorstep. But what had happened to the Warden."
"I tried to save the creature, hoping to bring him to Desna's light, but he was already dead. And that was when we heard the pounding. It was the real Walthus. Safe and hiding upstairs. Fortunately, except for the scare and the Warden's poor slain pets, all was well."
"We spent some time with Walthus. He told us more of the swamp. Made sure we would be better prepared to continue. We learned of the goblins and he warned of the Soggy River Monster and the swamp fever. He gave us magic to help us in the trials ahead."
Slowing to move on to the next part of the story, György takes another drink and returns to the tale. "We followed the Warden's directions, seeking the goblin village, the destination of our quest...or so we thought. It was immediately clear that something was wrong. The camp was quiet...far too quiet for a goblin encampment. And there was evidence of a battle. Jean slipped ahead to see if he could tell what had happened. At the same time, an illness seized poor Toshiro and we tried to help him with the Warden's medicines..."
"And then we saw the eyes. Glowing goblin eyes. Hiding in their village. We called to them. Encouraged them to come out and tell us what had happened. I know it sounds crazy. But there was a palpable sense that something was terribly wrong. The goblins emerged. Followed by their giant leader, Chief Gutwad, a huge goblin with a crown of bone."
"The chief spoke. He told us of the battle. What he called skelly men had attacked the goblins. Skeletons. At great cost, they had barely fought them off. We feared for what this might mean for Sandpoint. A worse foe than the goblins might already be marching on the town. We saw an opportunity for peace and struck a gambit with the goblins. Peace with Sandpoint in exchange for saving both. We headed south. Following the trail of the skeletons. We found something worse..."
"From out of the swamp, a terrible creature attacked us. The Soggy River Monster. It was taller than a man, but impossibly thin. It's jaws opened to reveal a terrible maw full of razor teeth and it attacked Treygan mercilessly. The battle was short and brutal, but Treygan's skill at arms prevailed, leaving the creature dead in the reeds. We continued our quest. Wondering if this was what had attacked the goblins, but knowing in our hearts that we weren't done yet. We continued on."
Once again György pauses to wet his mouth, "From somewhere ahead, we heard the sound of a horse, then sounds of battle. Fearing the worst, we rushed ahead and emerged through the swamp trees to find Sir Gavin beset by a host of skeletons. The swampy ground was no place for a horse and we were just in time. Before they could pull him from Sovereign, we rushed into the battle. With Desna's aid, we sent Urgathoa's thralls back to their graves."
"Our first meeting could have gone better. I'm sure it was the adrenaline or shock of meeting a dwarf in the swamp, but for a moment we feared Sir Gavin and Mukluk might come to blows. Fortunately, the conversation quickly turned to Sir Gavin's own quest for the River Monster and he told us the tale of his encounter with the witch...or at least a few rats and her corpse. We decided to continue on together. Sir Gavin shared a map of the swamp he had recovered from the witch and it met up with our own quest for the source of the skeletons. Together we pressed on once more."
"After a short journey further into the swamp, we found their cave. The sun was fading, but we knew for the sake of Sandpoint, we needed to press forward and learn what dark source was behind their assault. We moved through shadowy halls beneath the earth until we arrived in a chamber where skeletons including the bones of a great warrior greeted us, accusing us of disturbing their haven. We challenged him and as we had feared, he threatened to destroy Sandpoint. We prepared for battle and Sir Gavin challenged the leader, Tsutamu. Battle was joined. We fought our way through Tsutamu's skeletal guards leaving Sir Gavin and Tsutamu to fight a duel to the death."
"As Sir Gavin has already recounted, the battle was fierce. Proud Sir Gavin refused aid and we feared our new companion was about to lose when Tsutamu stopped the battle and claimed his own unlife. And that is when we found the blade and many other interesting things as well...but we'll get to those in a moment, for this isn't the end of the tale."
"We emerged into the night knowing he had to return to the goblins before our duty was complete. We met no battle last night...but we did learn more of one another. I think Sir Gavin himself may have begun to understand that many of us come from different backgrounds and experiences and this doesn't mean we are crazed in the head." At this György nods respectfully to Jean.
"The next morning, we returned to the goblins. There had been another fight in the night and the remaining skeletons and goblins both suffered terribly. Their chief is dead. The tribe is no more. We buried the dead and returned home."
At last György leans back and drinks a last long swallow of ale. "But I don't think that is the end of the tale..."
Corvus allows the others to do all of the talking. She'd worked in a bar long enough to know that men liked to talk about their exploits - and the telling will get more and more wonderful with each re-telling.
She was pleased that the group remained factual, and that she didn't have to change any facts. She was, however, disappointed that Hemlock wasn't there. She wanted to see the reaction on his face as she returned as part of a party that had dealt with the goblin menace.
And finally, her eyes were on Ameiko, to see how she'd react to the letter.
Treygan listens as György speaks, smiling at his words. He can't help but give Shalelu a nudge when detailing the encounter with the Soggy River Monster. As the story comes to an end, he applauds. "A wonderful recounting György. You truly have a gift for words."
Treygan turns back to Shalelu, "A different outcome from when we first met, though truth be told we did little against the goblins. The fate they suffered they brought upon themselves this time. Not necessarily what I would have chosen, but at least Sand Point should be safe for a time from any more goblin attacks."
Treygan pauses as though there's more he wants to say, but holds off, waiting instead to see how Ameiko responds to their discovery.
Jean will nod to folks and just take a glass of wine and take a seat at a corner table.
"A truly adventurous tale after all! Certainly more than what hearsay would've told us. As Sir Treygan mused, Gyorgy, you are a masterful storyweaver." Ameiko's eyes light up at Gyorgy's tale. At Sir Gavin's veneration, she chuckles and thanks him. "I am certain that the others appreciate your help as much as I do, good sir. Thank you greatly for your help, Sir Gavin." She promptly ceases her smile however as the cavalier produces the wakizashi and letter, and the color drains visibly from her face. "Where... how?" she stammers, rolling open the letter and reading voraciously. After a few minutes, she puts the parchment down on the bar and leans back, eyes distant. "My father... this must have been meant for him," she shakes her head and looks up. "Rokuro Kaijitsu was my grandfather. My father, Lonjiku, rarely spoke of him, and never warmly. I never knew much about him, only that he died before I was born, or near enough." She lifts the letter up again. "This is dated 4687... 27 years ago! I wonder what he's talking about, this truth he was to reveal." she asks. She looks at the other items you collected from Gutwad and the chest in the caverns and appears mildly disappointed by the lack of further information. Her disappointment is offset by the fire of intent you see kindling in her eyes. "You should keep these things, in gratitude for your work," she nods, handing back the small chest. "This letter is worth so much more to me," Ameiko continues. "You all must be exhausted from your adventure. Go home to clean up and rest; meet me back here tonight and we'll decide how to proceed. I'm going to look up some things at home." At that, she turns back from the bar to ring a bell. "We're closing for tonight, folks! First rounds tomorrow night are on me," she yells. With some grunts and grumbles, the patrons clear out of the Dragon, and Ameiko locks the doors behind. Turning to you, she finishes with, "For those with no place to call home in the village, you are welcome to stay here as long as you feel comfortable to do so."
Shalelu smiles at Treygan for the first real time and chuckles at his comments. "It would seem you did fairly decent after all. Exceeded my expectations I would even daresay." She nods affirmation to the paladin and nudges his shoulder with her fist. "Don't let it go to your head, Gorski. I'm still better." At Ameiko's comments, she nods solemnly and agrees with the Tian woman. "You've all proven your mettle. I'll get ahold of the Sheriff and make sure he's at tonight's gathering to at least thank you all. It's the least Hemlock can do." She centers the last comment on Corvus who she'd noted as visibly upset when Hemlock's absence was mentioned.
Koya smiles and nods to Mukluk at his introduction. "Dear Mukluk, of course I remember you, though you are certainly right that it has been a very long time. Since I was but Ameiko's age it seems. It is certainly good to have you back and thank you for your condolences. Her passing was sorrowful and I was bereaved for several days, but life must always go on. There are too many things in this world to see to stay cooped up for long. I envy your travels, truly I do. Sandru has been kind enough to allow me passage along with his caravan in order to see more of the world around me and it has greatly warmed my heart."
Mukluk smiles as Koya does, indeed, remember him.
"Ah, I should be looking for work too, now that this little side task is completed. Don't suppose you'd be willing to put in a good word for me with the Sandru, would ya? I just came to pay tribute to your mum, may she rest in peace," Mukluk asks earnestly.
"You know I can drive a team of horse or mule or oxen like I was their pappy, I can. I won't make you look bad."
* * *
"Don't let it go to your head, Gorski. I'm still better."
"Maybe for now, but I'll catch up to you." Treygan can't help but smile as Ameiko begins to usher people out, happy for the recognition from his former rescuer.
Turning to the others, "Well, I for one like the idea of washing off two days worth of swamp. Why don't we meet in the area west of the Cathedral in, oh, an hour and we can see about finding a few shops. I'm certain Corvus and I can think of a few."
Gavin nodded to Treygan.
"I heartily concur. I will meet you by the Cathedral; But first, I need to find some clean water to wash Sovereign off and make sure no parasites have taken up permanent residence."
He shook his head.
"Ah, the glamorous life of a cavalryman. They never tell you that part..."
There are 2 things Jean would wish to do.
First, is to spend mos of the day sitting down by the bay, in the junkyard..for no reason beyond the peacefulness of the washing waves, perhaps having a short swim.
Second, he will take his share of gold earned from the goblin ears/chief's head, and privately give that to Father Zantus as a memorial to be used to aid orphans and victims of the goblin raids.
Jeans share of the money from sale of loot he will keep.
Turning to the others, "Well, I for one like the idea of washing off two days worth of swamp. Why don't we meet in the area west of the Cathedral in, oh, an hour and we can see about finding a few shops. I'm certain Corvus and I can think of a few."
"That makes sense. This town loves gossip and news of our adventures in the swamp should mean local shopkeepers will be more than willing to offer us the best deal on the items we no longer need. These aren't just any old bits of armour and the like - aas they've all got a story attached to them. And some of us are known around here and that can only help."
With that, Corvus goes to get cleaned up but chooses to put her leathers on afterwards, rather than her usual dress. In her mind she's not the same barmaid that left town only a matter of days ago.
Mukluk sits out on the curb near the Cathedral, awaiting his companions so he can get to selling the loot, making a fair split, and getting back to finding work.
C'mon Koya, get me a job with Sandru.
He taps his toes, cleans his heavy cold iron pick, The Trepanator, and waits.
Maybe I'll get my own ride on that caravan. I'll approach Sandru myself. Who doesn't love a dwarf for company.
When the party convenes, he will help sell and sort the loot, ensuring a fair disbursement for all.
After Mukluk shops, he will be ready for the night's activities.
The town of Sandpoint proves quite hospitable to the lot of you as does its shopkeepers. Few turn you down when looking to barter and trade and most give you fair price on the items you sell. Investigation into the sellables of the town prove interesting to say the least. When pressing on purchases beyond general wares, the shopkeeps apologize for the higher prices but make it known that the price of their rare wares is negotiable providing you have any items of decent value to trade. If so, many of them have agreed to drop the prices based on the value of the items you're trading in. Beyond the mundane equipment (weapons, armor, tools, etc.) you find a few worthwhile items within the town's shops. While some are on display others have fallen behind shelves or counters and were forgotten about.
For all your healing needs, the Sandpoint Cathedral is found to be the place to go. Father Zantus thanks you for your assistance and informs you that as long as you're in Sandpoint, his acolytes and him will assist with healing when they can. As for items, he can only offer a minor amount of assistance.
Inventory
Healy Myrrh (no limit) - 50 GP
Bandages of a Rapid Recovery (no limit) - 200 GP
Wand of Cure Light Wounds (50 charges) - 750 GP
Healer's Gloves - 2,500 GP
Vest of Surgery - 3,000 GP
Ring of Curing - 10,000 GP
Bracers of the Avenging Knight - 11,500 GP (inscription reads "Amon Artuk, Avenging Knight of Sarenrae.)
Bracers of the Merciful Knight - 15,600 GP (inscription reads "Quintus Artuk, Merciful Knight of Sarenrae.)
Savah's Armory, owned and run by Savah Bevaniky, can be found on Tower Street in Sandpoint. It sells many types of armor and weapons, including well-made items and exotic weapons such as spiked chains and shurikens.
Inventory
Efficient Quiver - 1,800 GP
+2 Dagger - 8,302 GP
+2 Spell Resistant (13) Studded Leather - 16,175 GP (belongs to Savah though it appears as if unused for several years)
The Feathered Serpent, run by Vorvashali Voon, an enterprising young gnome girl who holds key trade connections with Magnimar, specializes in providing the community of Sandpoint with magic trinkets and tools, though the shop's inventory changes regularly and many articles found within the location's walls are often not for sale. The interior of The Feathered Serpent boasts a disorganized collection of merchandise. The smells and odors of the various components that line the shop's shelves permeate the air of this small shop, located in southern Sandpoint.
Inventory
Scroll of Blur - 150 GP
Scroll of Fox's Cunning - 150 GP
Scroll of Mirror Image - 150 GP
Scroll of Dispel Magic - 375 GP
Wand of Lesser Confusion (50 charges) - 750 GP
Ring of Feather Falling - 2,200 GP (worn by Vorvashali because she likes the way it looks)
Wand of Magic Vestment (27 charges) - 6,075 GP
Hannah’s serves the community of Sandpoint by treating injuries and illnesses deemed too insignificant to warrant attention by Abstalar Zantus and the others at the Sandpoint Cathedral. This shop can be found at the end of Hook Street, near the docks on the southern end of the town. Hannah’s offers a number natural curatives and remedies, gathered and prepared by the shop's owner, Hannah Velerin. This shop is also a preferred location for women who wish to receive assistance with pregnancies, be they seeking either early termination or birthing services.
Inventory
Potion of Barkskin - 300 GP
Restorative Ointment - 4,000 GP
Periapt of Health - 7,400 GP (hangs around Hannah's neck)
The Pillbug's Pantry is a well-disguised shop located in Tanglefoot Alley in Sandpoint. Squeezed in between two tenements, it is indistinguishable from its neighbors, except for a small paining of a pillbug sitting in a mushroom. The proprietor Aliver "Pillbug" Podiker is known for making potions and other herbal tonics.
Inventory
Potion of Protection from Chaos - 50 GP
Potion of Levitate - 300 GP
Oil of Daylight - 750 GP
Oil of Shrink Item - 750 GP
Seeing the rest of the party doing some shopping but still being nervous and distrustful of people, Jean will approach Corvus...
Timidly
"Ma'am, I appreciated the gesture of Mukluk granting me this earring...accepting it as an example of dwarven humor with no real ill will behind it. You know the people here, perhaps you might be able to trade it for something more appropriate for me?" Jean touches the left side of his head and the hands Corvus the earring. Bows and says, "I will see you tonight with the others."
Treygan first heads home to let his parents know of the group's success in Brinestump Marsh. Bathing and changing into normal clothing, he meets up with the others near the Sandpoint Cathedral.
Traveling from shop to shop, he keeps an eye out for something. Finally, he finds the perfect gift. A small compass, functional but with a certain charm. Paying the shopkeep, Treygan pockets the compass for later this evening.
Mukluk grumbles, annoyed at himself. His first two searches of this room and pack were as unsuccessful as his first two searches for the missing crossbow.
"I think I left my dang crossbow on the last dang caravan! I bet I left it under the seat! I *always* do that," Mukluk mutters as he shells out another hefty bit of coins for a replacement.
Mukluk puts his purchases away and is ready for whatever may come next.
I need work. I'd like to keep moving.
Sir Gavin goes shopping for a Military Saddle, a masterwork large steel shield, and better barding for Sovereign; something like lamellar leather barding.
Corvus returns to her room, tired yet elated at her recent exploits. She’s also worried about Ameiko and what the letter might mean. As she throws her newly acquired gear on her bed, the noise startles a bundle of grey feathers that was perched on her window.
Corvus isn’t sure who is more startled as she leaps two feet off the ground. She then breaks into a fit of giggles. ’I can face skeleton armies but a bird scares me witless.’
Despite the window being ajar, the bird chooses not to fly away. Corvus is unsure as to what to do next. Should she shoo it out or ignore it? It eyes her briefly before its sharp yellow beak begins pecking at something held between its long claws – clearly a mouse or similar creature.
”Don’t mind me, you just eat your dinner and make yourself at home.” With that, Corvus sweeps the armour and other items off the bed and falls into a fitful sleep. It’s one punctuated by a dream of flying through woods and chasing rodents before killing and eating them by ripping at their flesh with her teeth.
She wakes to find the bird still on the window-sill, its head cocked at an angle as it appraises her. There are no signs of the meal. A strange thing happened to Corvus at this point. Although she couldn’t see through the bird’s eyes, or read its mind, she had the overwhelming feeling that she knew what it was thinking. Or at least what it was feeling. There was satisfaction… that meal was filling. There was also…what was it…curiosity? There was something different about this creature (and she felt it meant her).
Taking this in her stride – she was a magic user after all – she proceeded to check her books and found a number of references to bonds between wizards and familiars (as they found they were called) which occasionally manifested itself in magi.
Sorting out what she wanted to keep and what she wanted to sell, she quickly cleaned herself up. ”I’m going shopping,” she said to the bird. ”You’re more than welcome to come with me.” She tried to focus on happy thoughts in the hope that the bird would be able to read her emotions as well as she could read its.
With that she headed downstairs, leaving the bird on the window-ledge. Out in the open air, she was aware of the bird circling overhead even before she saw it. There was clearly a bond between them. Two kindred spirits. Two young females. Yes, the bird was definitely a female. She didn’t know how she knew, but she knew. ’And she is called Accipiter.’
Corvus dawdles from shop to shop. Although not prone to vanity, the attention the group is receiving since the news of their exploits is repairing her poor self-image she has as a result of not acting at the time of the last goblin challenge.
She has more money in her pocket than she's ever had yet is struggling to spend it. All of her day to day needs are managed by receiving board and lodgings at the Rusty Dragon - the costs being subtracted from her wages. And being brought up with little or no money means she's become frugal.
But that doesn't mean she won't spend money. Her first port of call is to buy a beautiful - if slightly gaudy - golden dress. It's designed specifically for dancing and is absolutely a guilty pleasure for Corvus.
Walking to the next store, she mumbles to herself, "I know, I know Accipiter. It's too expensive - but it is so beautiful. Please be happy for me."
Next she focuses on selling the earring Jean entrusted with her. It is magical and Savah knows enough of its true worth to offer a fair price - 1,000gp. Pocketing this for Jean, she eyes a beautiful long and slightly curved blade. With a nod from Savah, she picks up the unusual weapon - clearly masterwork - and begins an intricate dance of death. Using her performing skills, she performs a number of standard forms - the blade's light weight lending itself naturally to slashing motions, which suited her style more than stabbing. She knows instinctively that her speed is producing the sort of power a much heavier blade would struggle to match.
Corvus quickly handed over her rapier and the scimitar was hers. She also traded in her shortbow and, for what reason she knew not, she felt compelled to commission some new arrows - with grey flights to reflect Accipiter's plumage. She also handed over her leather armour.
Before leaving her eye was drawn to what appeared a standard quiver – but her magical senses knew different.
"An efficient quiver," said Savah. "It looks ordinary but holds more than the eye would believe."
"How much is it?"
"1,800 gold."
Corvus is crestfallen. "A little rich for my tastes. Unless..." Her hand goes to the amulet around her neck. Corvus knows it is worth more than the quiver, and hopes Savah would consider a straight swap.
Jean will take time alone to do some introspection and think about the past few days and the people he has met.
I don't know what is happening, I don't know what I should do. These townsfolk are quite nice, they have treated me with kindness and I've done nothing for them. Going after the goblins seemed to be a good thing, a way to give back, to earn their respect and feel right about their generosity....
Now the goblins are gone...what to do now?
I've earned some coin, I can survive a whiile with what I have....but where to go? What to do?
Perhaps Mukluk would allow me to follow him, teach me his trade...it sounds much like the life I've known at sea...just drier. Or do I return to Magnimar, try to find passage or work in the docks...perhaps as far as Absalom?
I will wait until the morning to decide...see what happens tonight. Perhaps these people will invite me to stay with them...the girl seems nice, Gyorgi sounds smart...what a band of misfits we would be.
But why would they want someone like me? My skills are not the nicest or most friendly to people...bloodletting and thieving are not looked on so well...certainly not by that man with the horse...
Again perhaps Koya will have a suggestion...
Jean will lay in the surf until it is almost time to meet the others at the Dragon...
As Corvus haggles with her, Savah smiles. She's known the girl for a short period of time and really only in passing but Ameiko's barmaid did seem to prove her worth out in the Marsh if the stories were to be believed. And it wasn't as if the quiver was doing anyone any good locked in the store. "Dear girl, I can drop the price to 1,000 gold only. This quiver has been locked in here for quite some time and is doing no one any good here. But I must still make a profit. If you return half of what I paid you for the earring, I would be willing to part with it for 500 less than the 1,000 I'm asking. If you're still looking to trade that necklace though I would gladly make the deal. You do know that amulet is worth quite a bit though don't you?"
Basking in the glow of Ameiko's praise, György can barely sleep the first night back in Sandpoint. The next morning, he wakes and after meeting with the rest of the companions to decide what to keep and what to sell, György heads to Savah's Armory with Corvus to exchange some items, purchasing a much nicer chain shirt and placing on order for a new spear.
"Gyorgy! How wonderful to see you! It's been quite some time. I love that sermon you gave at the cathedral last week. Father Zantus, Desna's bless him, can be quite humdrum sometimes and yours kept me awake for the entirety of Mass." Savah praises. "What is it that you need? New armor? Of course, of course. Sorry to say that the spear you wanted wasn't in. We've have some trouble with bandits recently, but Sheriff Hemlock took care of that right quick I hear. Much like your troupe's performance in the Marsh. I'll egg another ordered for you right away, love."
Mukluk paces outside, formulating his verbal resume to give Sandru if asked. He's never liked seeking work, he's always been much happier when work is secured and the horizon is on the horizon.
I hope Koya put a good word in for me. I'm sure he will, won't she? Would make a lot easier.
After shopping, Gavin goes back to the stables to take care of feeding and caring for Sovereign, then back to the inn for a hot bath.