After listening to Grendel's thoughts, Xargin ceases to play, stands and stretches.
"Our preference is to go today. If this our course, then we must prepare. If it is agreeable with you all, we shall take our leave and return to the manor to retrieve our necessities. When and where shall we meet to depart?"
Xargin leaves the Rusty Dragon and takes the quickest route back to the manor. Once there he heads directly to his quarters and changes into his leather armour (almost identical in design to his normal clothing, the pattern is simply dyed into leather rather than cloth). He hangs his rapier from his belt, slings his short bow and quiver over his shoulders, and removes the clasp from his cloak. He attaches the clasp to his armour at the base of his neck and, placing his hand over it, offers a brief prayer to Chucaro.
Maiden, your children beg your favour in this endeavour. We know you have little care for matters of blood and violence, but our sister has been harmed, and our soul yearns for vengeance. Let our mind stay clear this day that we may remove this weight from our shoulders, and know your peace once more. Let our dreams remain lucid, that we do not lose ourselves in them and cannot find our way home. This we ask of you, with respect and love.
His prayers complete, Xargin grabs his knapsack and heads down to the kitchen. He asks whoever is around to prepare travel suitable rations and water for 3 days, offering sufficient coin to to replace the supplies needed .
While waiting for the food to be prepared, he tracks down whoever is in charge of the household in Ameiko's absence, and explains the situation as best he can.
"Our sister has been injured in an attack by goblins. We are assured she will make a full recovery, but she is currently under the care of the healers at the cathedral. We will be joining a group to investigate their boldness of late, with an eye to putting a stop to it. Be sure that they will receive no mercy from us. We will not tell you how to go about your business, merely ask that you keep the house well in our sister's absence, and ensure that the Dragon continues to run smoothly. We will return as soon as we can, and hopefully Ameiko will be awake and returned to us by then."
Xargin returns to kitchen, collects his knapsack, and continues to the meeting place. Once there, he asks the others if there are any other provisions they believe necessary to buy before heading out.
"Well that does sound ominous," Haelynn replies, not entirely sure how to take the halfling's words. Is he serious? "I will be going, though I am not sure of the way."
"I also need to collect some gear for this journey. How about we meet back at the Dragon in an hour?"
Tannithil nods his thanks to Marc for the plate of food that is presented to him. Unsure what to do with the meat components of this culinary offering, he finishes off the spinach as he listens to the group talk, softly adding his own recollection of events to assist the others in the plan of attack.
"I recall that the the road was passing east of Brinestump Marsh when we were attacked... We were heading north towards Sandpoint, and had crossed the Foxglove River, but I do not recall yet reaching the next river...
There was possibly 15 or more of the beasts (the others can clearly see Tannithil struggles to properly name Goblins, as though they simply were undeserving of such a title) that attacked us - one employed... foul arts (Tannithil's way of describing magic) of some sort - though the beast's cowardice overwhelmed their likely victory in the face of such displays of power even though they originated from their own kind and they retreated. Projectile weapons I recall were common amongst their number as were blades.
I...I am not sure how we survived - I believe that other such beasts arrived and these called the others away? There was an explosion though - later that night...I cannot quite recall these details exactly, I am sorry..."
A sullen expression crosses his face as Tannithil pokes absently at the food in front of him, evidently annoyed at himself for being unable to recall more.
"Wake from death and return to life, my friend. Your mistress lives, your brave heart still beats, and you now have allies who will stand with you."
Tannithil nods at Haelyn's words - he recognises a kind heart and a devoted individual akin to his own code of ethics when he meets one.
Unaccustomed to friendship with others besides Ameiko, he forces a smile as his eyes meet Haelyn's, before returning his attentions to his meal."We care not for why the goblins are attacking. They are vermin, it is in their nature. As it is in ours to protect our kith and kin. The sole remaining kin left to us has been harmed... as we could not protect her, it falls to us instead to exact a blood price. Still, though it shames us to admit it, we cannot do this on our own, and must therefore bow to the will of the group. Should you wish to investigate further before making a move, we will do what we can to assist. We will not take rash action, however much we chafe to rain fire and ruin upon the foul beasts."
"I doubt you will find any reason for the attacks beyond the fact that the goblins feel they are strong enough to get away with them. The Licktoads have a new leader, a fat goblin warrior called Chief Rendwattle Gutwad. I hear he has stopped the infighting that kept their attention away from Sandpoint, and of course got their hands on these fireworks. Remember, this attack on Ameiko and her soldier boy was not an isolated incident, and will not be the last if nothing is done."
Tannithil straightens in his seat at Xargin and Grendel's words. He pushes the last of his plate away as a stern expression crosses his face, all traces of his sullen mood washed away. His eyes narrow before he speaks as if concentrating on an object in the far distance.
"By my life, by my sword and by my honour I swear vengeance upon these beasts - let it be known from this moment I consider you each my kin in this pursuit of redemption and honour"Placing his koshirae on the table with it held in the grip of both hands, he looks each of the party in the eye and adds;
"May you each bear witness to this sworn duty - I shall slay this Chief, lest my ancestors, lord and all who bear witness deem all that I am and ever will be, a failure"
Tannithil Returns his koshirae to his side.
"Where may I clean and repair my equipment... with a breif he pause he adds awkwardly but with the slightest hint of a smile upon his face; "...my freinds?"
Haelynn tries to hide her worry as Tannithil swears his oath to kill the goblin chief. Hate brings to men wars and fear! She looks at Yumi, and then at the others. "We will help you avenge your mistress, my friend, in time," she says softly, "you can return to Mother Koya's house with us and clean your equipment there. As for repairs, Sir Marc should be able to recommend someone. Sir?"
As usual, the staff at the Kaijitsu manor are polite but reserved when dealing with Xargin. It seems to have been the way for much of his life – people are either drawn to him or wary of him, and unfortunately the people of Sandpoint for the most part have fallen into the latter category.
For repairs to weapons or armour you would want to see the town’s smith, Das Korvut, or the armourer, Savah Bevaniky. Korvut is a powerfully muscled, bad tempered Shoanti, who knows his stuff but is unlikely to do any work cheap or free. Savah has a much more friendly disposition, and given that the damage to Tannithil’s gear is only cosmetic, she would probably be willing to give it a buff and polish for free (with the hope of future business).
Grendel agrees to be back at the Dragon in an hour. He gathers his things and then goes in search of one of the fishermen who frequents the marshes. He heads to the docks and fishermen huts asking around. He intimates that he is on the Sheriffs business, and that any of the fishermen who use the marshes are to meet in the Dragon in 1 hour, for the security of Sandpoint.
For repairs to weapons or armour you would want to see the town’s smith, Das Korvut, or the armourer, Savah Bevaniky. Korvut is a powerfully muscled, bad tempered Shoanti, who knows his stuff but is unlikely to do any work cheap or free. Savah has a much more friendly disposition, and given that the damage to Tannithil’s gear is only cosmetic, she would probably be willing to give it a buff and polish for free (with the hope of future business).
Tannithil heads to Savah to see to his armour and offers a token payment for her trouble (let me know a suitable amount to deduct or if she insists on it being free that's workable - though Tannathil has little more then 7 gold on him and will remember such an offer). Despite her offer, he politely refuses her access to his weapons explaining that only he may see to their preparation.
Tannithil investigates into the whereabouts of a shrine (Moth - does such a location exist? If so...) where he may prepare spiritually for his journey. Once at the shrine, he unsheathes his katana and kneels.
Placing the blade in front of him, he carefully pours a vial of oil over the edge and polishes it thoroughly. Eyes closed, he recites his pledge to lord and lands.
Satisfied he is done, opens his eyes, re-sheathes his blade and collects his gear before heading back to the Rusty Dragon.
Marc waves away Haelynn's and Tannithil's thanks for the food and settles in to eat heartily himself, listening to Grendel, Xargin and Tannithil. While not as emotionally invested in the hunt as the likes of Xargin and Tannithil, he feels excitement and anticipation growing.
He pauses in his meal while Tannithil makes his oath, recognising a code of honour not so dissimilar to his own. He nods respectfully at its completion, before resuming his meal.
When talk turns to preparation, he speaks up.
"What of horses, and healing? I prefer to ride, and it may hasten our trip, though I am not sure how horses will fare in the swamp? And given the injuries we've just witnessed, it would be prudent to take what precautions we can against serious injury."
"What of horses, and healing? I prefer to ride, and it may hasten our trip, though I am not sure how horses will fare in the swamp? And given the injuries we've just witnessed, it would be prudent to take what precautions we can against serious injury."
[/ooc]
"I don't know how they would fare in the swamp, but the goblins are scared of horses - and dogs for that matter. They could come in handy.
Yumiko follows Haelynn home after the meeting at the Rusty Dragon, and rounds on her once the door to the house is closed.
"Tha seems mightsome keen to be goingwise on this expedition. Tha might even get thy skirts dirty." she says looking at Haelynn's perfect white outfit. "They be handsome folk, well suited for the liftin' of dirty skirts. Art tha sure thy well-oiled sputcheon ain't making thy decisions for tha? Chasing pyrotechnical goblins in a monster-licked swamp seems a giantsome foolery."
She waves away any of Haelynn's protestations before they can begin and sighs "Nevermind my amarulence. Us's worried about tha. Tha art more suited to peacerly pursuits than the deartuation of screaming goblins"
(Yumiko begins a gear assembly montage, including a new set of boots, her battered musket, and an array of bullets that seem to be made of squamous iron, glistening eyeballs, and carved teeth.)
Grendel agrees to be back at the Dragon in an hour. He gathers his things and then goes in search of one of the fishermen who frequents the marshes. He heads to the docks and fishermen huts asking around. He intimates that he is on the Sheriffs business, and that any of the fishermen who use the marshes are to meet in the Dragon in 1 hour, for the security of Sandpoint.
[dice=local knowledge] d20 +5
[dice=bluff] d20 +5
Grendel knows that at this time of day many of Sandpoint's professional fisherfolk will be out at sea, but others might be found down at the docks at Sandpoint Harbour, mending nets or tending to their boats; or else enjoying a drink and perhaps a game of cards or yarning at the infamous Hagfish tavern at the west end of the docks.
However, Grendel's knowledge of the local area also leads him to believe that it's not likely to be the professional fisherfolk who are traipsing through Brinestump Marsh to fish; why do so when you could sail your boat directly down to Sog's Bay, probably quicker and safer than going through the swamp? No, those are likely to be locals casting the occasional line on their day off or after a day's work at the farm, and probably more likely to be folk from the outlying farms rather than Sandpoint 'townies'. They'll be harder to track down.
Tannithil heads to Savah to see to his armour and offers a token payment for her trouble (let me know a suitable amount to deduct or if she insists on it being free that's workable - though Tannathil has little more then 7 gold on him and will remember such an offer). Despite her offer, he politely refuses her access to his weapons explaining that only he may see to their preparation.Tannithil investigates into the whereabouts of a shrine (Moth - does such a location exist? If so...) where he may prepare spiritually for his journey. Once at the shrine, he unsheathes his katana and kneels.
Placing the blade in front of him, he carefully pours a vial of oil over the edge and polishes it thoroughly. Eyes closed, he recites his pledge to lord and lands.Satisfied he is done, opens his eyes, re-sheathes his blade and collects his gear before heading back to the Rusty Dragon.
Tannithil, the tough but friendly armourer Savah is happy to lend you some polish and a whetstone to clean up your gear. She offers to sell you a whetstone for a mere 2 copper pieces, as you seem to have lost your own. She also tries to sell you a simple dagger (for 2 gold pieces) should you come across a situation requiring cutting where you don't want to sully your fine swords. As well, she suggests maybe you should consider buying a mace or similar ("how about this compact light mace here, a bargain at only 5 gold coins!") in case you find yourself in a situation where a blunt weapon is more useful than a blade.
The only public shrines in town are located back up at the multi-denominational Sandpoint Cathedral, where there are shrines to Gozreh, Shelyn, Desna, Sarenrae, Abadar and Erastil.
"What of horses, and healing? I prefer to ride, and it may hasten our trip, though I am not sure how horses will fare in the swamp? And given the injuries we've just witnessed, it would be prudent to take what precautions we can against serious injury."
Anyone who succeeded at an earlier Knowledge (local) or Knowledge (geography) check in regards to Brinestump Marsh believes that horses may not be a necessity, and in fact could be more of a hindrance than help; the marsh is only a few miles from town, so horses are not required for the journey, and the environs of the marsh itself include tangled vegetation and hidden pools - not ideal for horses. While it is true that goblins tend to be scared of horses, horses not trained for war are also likely to be scared of goblins ... and snakes, and giant vermin, and loud explosions caused by fireworks, etc. Anything less than a well trained warhorse should probably not be considered for such an expedition.
Asking the Sheriff or Koya for some sort of assistance or resources is up to you. Koya is up a the Cathedral, the Sheriff might be found at the Garrison, the Town Hall or possibly patrolling the town.
"I... no... what... no..." Haelynn stammers as she tries to defend herself while being shushed by her sister. When the time comes, even a dove becomes a tiger.
Leaving her sister to rummage through her gear, Haelynn also begins gathering equipment for their mission. She pulls a well-oiled apron of unscathed scale mail from a chest, having only ever worn it for ceremonial purposes, and dusts off a longspear where it reclines in a corner. Like the armour, the spear has never seen battle. She pauses to hear her sister cursing as she packs her own gear.
Frowning, she spends a moment tending to her equipment before packing her sundries and supplies into a backpack. She hangs her holy symbol, a rose carved from redwood, about her neck and tucks her beloved copy of Melodies of Inner Beauty into a satchel. Removing her white ceremonial robes, she dresses in the more sombre wine-coloured vestments, highlighted with white and decorated with blush-coloured roses, she usually reserved for riding or caretaking duties at the cathedral.
Haelynn takes a moment to breath, straightening her robes under the additional weight of her armour, and reassures herself that she can surpass her sister's expectations. When the time comes, even a dove becomes a tiger...
Taking a piece of parchment, Haelynn dips her pen into the ink and writes a quick note to their guardian - the only person in the world who took on the challenge of raising the twins - explaining their absence:
Mother,
If we do not see you before leaving town, we are accompanying Tannithil and Xargin into the Brinestump Marsh to investigate the goblin attack. The shock of Ameiko's injuries has been great, and I am concerned that anger may give way to bloodshed sooner than might be wise. A small group maybe able to uncover more than spending the strength of the militia in vain.
We will see you on our return to Sandpoint.
Mother Moon shine on you,
Yumi and Haelynn.
Reading over the note, Haelynn places it on the worn wood of the table. Satisfied, she waits patiently for Yumi to appear.
After leaving Tannithil at the Armourer's Marc hurries home. There he pulls on his Splint Mail, enjoying it's familiar weight on his shoulders. He fills a pack with rations and stores that he has on hand before taking up his Lucerne Hammer and shield and heading over to the stable.
"Hello, Taletheus," he says to his stallion, lovingly stroking it's neck. "We're going to head out for a ride."
The black stallion whinnies and tosses it's head in anticipation, but then settles patiently while Marc saddles up. As he leads his horse to the stable doors, he pauses to take up his lance, suspended on the side wall on two brackets. Outside he wastes no time mounting. Looking around the compound, his eyes meet those of his brother Farrell, emerging from the house. There is instant consternation in Farrell's expression, but Marc spurs his horse forward and gallops out into the town before any words can be spoken.
He rides back up to the cathedral, dismounting and giving Taletheus the order to stay. Moving as quietly as he can in his armour so as not to cause a disturbance in the place of worship, he seeks out his old friend.
"I trust Ameiko's condition remains stable?" he asks. "The group gathered here earlier have decided to investigate the marshes with a view to putting an end to the aggressive behaviour of the goblins. We depart shortly. I was hoping to request a boon of you; do you have any healing magic you can spare us on this quest? Emotions are high for some of the party, and I would hate to see further serious injury occur."
As Marc leaves the cathedral on his way back to the Rusty Dragon he spots Jasminder, whom he knows is one of Sandru's current caravan guards. She's strolling through the town, also headed in the direction of the Inn, and he can see that while she is not hurrying, she is obviously taking note of the increased foot traffic hurrying about the town.
She spots Marc and waves him over, her head cocked to the side and her shoulders shrugging as if to ask "what's going on?"
"I trust Ameiko's condition remains stable?" he asks. "The group gathered here earlier have decided to investigate the marshes with a view to putting an end to the aggressive behaviour of the goblins. We depart shortly. I was hoping to request a boon of you; do you have any healing magic you can spare us on this quest? Emotions are high for some of the party, and I would hate to see further serious injury occur."
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20 + 8
“Yes, Ameiko’s still sleeping,” answers Koya. “I had a feeling you might be going on a quest.” She smiles somewhat sadly. “I don’t think anything would have stopped Ameiko’s brother or her protector charging off to that swamp and getting themselves killed. I just hope I did the right thing by encouraging Haelynn to look after them … look after her Marc – and her sister. Now, healing? Well, of course if any of you are injured I will be happy to lend the magic that Desna grants me – just make sure you make it back here. But I take it you are after something more portable?” She sighs. “I’m afraid I have been rather lax Marc. Brewing more potions was one of the things that I was supposed to be doing instead of going with Sandru on his trip to Korvosa … but there are so many things to do. Well, since you ask so sensibly Marc, I think I still have at least one.”
She shifts her long scarf to access the satchel she wears on her shoulder, digs about in it and then pulls out a small potion bottle, which she hands to Marc. “Use it wisely,” she says, “for whoever needs it most.”
Marc knows Jasminder from a previous stint as caravan guarding for Sandru. She's quite a warrior.
"I... no... what... no..." Haelynn stammers as she tries to defend herself while being shushed by her sister. When the time comes, even a dove becomes a tiger.
Yumiko comes out from her room all packed for the expedition. She says to Haelynn as she places down the note "Tha'll enjoy it. It's the thrill of the fight. Rising up to the challenge of our rivals."
The sisters make their way back to the Rusty Dragon.
Moth
On his way back to the Dragon Grendel will try to cut a purse. Not sure on all the rolls, but if it helps he will use local knowledge and perception to try and target someone who he thinks has a decent amount of coin (for a small place like Sandpoint) May potentially buy some extra equipment.
She shifts her long scarf to access the satchel she wears on her shoulder, digs about in it and then pulls out a small potion bottle, which she hands to Marc. “Use it wisely,” she says, “for whoever needs it most.”
Marc takes the offered bottle and carefully stows it in hit belt pouch.
"I will watch over Haelynn and Yumiko as if I were defending you, Koya" he promises. "Thankyou for the potion; it will be given to the one in the most need. I must be off; I will see you soon."
He leaves her at the cathedral and heads to his horse.
"Even the turtle grows weary of her shell," Haelynn mutters, fidgeting with the buckles on her armour, "Do not smirk, Yumi, you are free of such burdens."
I wish I had a horse to carry this pack for me... I cannot believe people actually take enjoyment from wandering the wilderness in such attire.
"I wish I had your talent for the art," she continues to mutter, "then I could at least feel respectable while we wander into that marsh."
Seeing a flash of light on armour and blade as they near the Rusty Dragon, Haelynn pauses to fuss for a moment and then takes a deep breath. If this armour would only let me draw breath...
As Marc leaves the cathedral on his way back to the Rusty Dragon he spots Jasminder, whom he knows is one of Sandru's current caravan guards. She's strolling through the town, also headed in the direction of the Inn, and he can see that while she is not hurrying, she is obviously taking note of the increased foot traffic hurrying about the town.
She spots Marc and waves him over, her head cocked to the side and her shoulders shrugging as if to ask "what's going on?"
Marc is caught of guard momentarily from the surprise meeting, but quickly recovers.
"Well met Jasminder," he says, reigning in Taletheus. "Ameiko has been greviously wounded by goblins. She is stable and will recover, but is resting at the cathedral."
"It seems the goblins have been stirred up by a new war chief among them," he explains. "I'm on my way back to the Dragon to meet a party, including Ameiko's brother and her bodyguard. We intend to go and see what we can do about it, before anyone else gets hurt."
He eyes her appraisingly. "We could use another good sword arm, like your own."
"Even the turtle grows weary of her shell," Haelynn mutters, fidgeting with the buckles on her armour, "Do not smirk, Yumi, you are free of such burdens."
"The road is long, with many a windingly turn, that leads us to who knows where. Who knows when. But us's strong, strong enough to carry tha. Tha ain't heavy, tha's my sister."
Jasminder looks around once more, now appreciating the extra activity. "Goblins you say. It has been some time since my claws have tasted the blood of Goblins," she flexes her fingers and he can't help but remember how deadly her wicked claws could be. "The last few caravan runs for Sandru have been uneventful journeys. I have not seen you on a run recently, has the adventuring life taken hold of you?"
She looks up the street towards the Rusty Dragon. "A chance to get out and stretch my legs in open country would be welcome, especially if there were Goblins about to make the journey more interesting. I'd be happy to join you in your quest, as long as your friends will take me." She gestures down the road. "Shall we?"
Approaching the Rusty Dragon, Haelynn notices Sir Marc and a stranger speaking casually outside. Glancing at her sister, she gives a general greeting to announce her approach. Haelynn smiles at the stranger, "I am Haelynn," and placing a hand on her sister's shoulder, "this is Yumiko, my sister. It is a pleasure to meet you..."
Strolling amongst the patrons of the Farmer’s Market, you spot a pimple faced young man with lank black hair strutting about like he owns the place – which, considering he looks like a junior member of the wealthy Scarnetti family, is not completely outside the realms of possibility. He looks like a fat mark anyway. You make the approach …
It looks like your Scarnetti is completely oblivious, and you are able to lift his purse which contains gold pieces and silver pieces.
Jasminder cocks her head at the strange sisters, a small smile on her face. She bows a short bow at them and introduces herself. "Jasminder," she says, carefully holding out a hand tipped with sharp claws. "Marc and I guarded a caravan route or two together for Sandru a while back."
"The last few caravan runs for Sandru have been uneventful journeys. I have not seen you on a run recently, has the adventuring life taken hold of you?"
A shadow crosses Marc's face, and he dismounts so the can continue to walk and talk on more even footing. "No...family matters have kept me from the caravan run. This foray will be a welcome respite from the mundane, danger non-withstanding.
She looks up the street towards the Rusty Dragon. "A chance to get out and stretch my legs in open country would be welcome, especially if there were Goblins about to make the journey more interesting. I'd be happy to join you in your quest, as long as your friends will take me." She gestures down the road. "Shall we?"
"Truth be told, not many in the group appear to know each other well, myself included. So I doubt any will have concerns about an extra hand coming along, especially one with hands as capable as yours!"
"Marc and I guarded a caravan route or two together for Sandru a while back."
"And she proved a valuable asset to have along. I'm confident she'll prove the same on this expedition." Marc helps facilitate the introductions as the rest of the group filters in.
Noticing the Haelynn looking somewhat uncomfortable under the combined weight of her armour and pack, Marc moves over to her when he gets a chance, leading Taletheus with him.
"Allow me to take your pack, if you will?" he offers. "Given few others have packs I intend to walk, at least until we near the swamp. Taletheus here would only be to willing to assist. The offer extends to you as well, Yumiko, if it pleases you?"
Taletheus butts its head into Marc's arm and wickers as if affronted. Marc gives him a vigorous rub on the neck. 'There'll be a long rub down and some extra feed in it for you, of course," he says playfully, a grin on his face.
Seeing that everyone has assembled, Marc addresses the group, lifting his voice so all can hear. "Well, it appears we are all here, and we are now 7 not 6, with Jasminder offering to accompany us on his venture! Is everyone equipped and provisioned adequately, lest we get caught out in the swamp for longer than we intended?"
"If no one has any further business in town, then where is our first port of call? Yumiko suggested that Walthus or Old Megus may have some more detailed knowledge on the goblins numbers and whereabouts, which feels like a wise place to begin? I know neither, nor where to find them though, so I'll need someone to lead the way!"
Seeing that everyone has assembled, Marc addresses the group, lifting his voice so all can hear. "Well, it appears we are all here, and we are now 7 not 6, with Jasminder offering to accompany us on his venture! Is everyone equipped and provisioned adequately, lest we get caught out in the swamp for longer than we intended?"
"If no one has any further business in town, then where is our first port of call? Yumiko suggested that Walthus or Old Megus may have some more detailed knowledge on the goblins numbers and whereabouts, which feels like a wise place to begin? I know neither, nor where to find them though, so I'll need someone to lead the way!"
His armour and attire resplendent once again, Tannithil eyes burn with a sense of purpose. It's evident he's ready for this journey - his backpack bulges slightly at the press of it's contents and his short bow is held over his shoulder with a stock of arrows ready for use. He bows curtly to Jasminder in greeting upon meeting with the group.
"I am ready" he responds to Marc softly.
Moth: Can Tannithil remember where he and Ameiko were attacked and perhaps more importantly, how to reach this locale? is he able to retrace his steps in any capacity to steer the group? He'll attempt a Geography check as part of it if so (or maybe it's more of a memory check?).
Xargin inclines his head to Jasminder, his face hidden behind his mask.
"It is an honour to meet you. We are sure you will be a most valuable addition to our expedition."
He shoulder's his pack and turns to Marc.
"We believe the wisest course of action would be to seek more information on our foe. The more we know of them, the better we can plan our attack. Perhaps Yumiko could lead us to Old Megus or Walthus?"
Grendel quickly purchases some trail rations and heads back to the Dragon.
He flashes a smirk at the newest member of the group. "Well met Jasminder. I look forward to hearing more about you and your capable hands..."
His armour and attire resplendent once again, Tannithil eyes burn with a sense of purpose. It's evident he's ready for this journey - his backpack bulges slightly at the press of it's contents and his short bow is held over his shoulder with a stock of arrows ready for use. He bows curtly to Jasminder in greeting upon meeting with the group."I am ready" he responds to Marc softly.
Moth: Can Tannithil remember where he and Ameiko were attacked and perhaps more importantly, how to reach this locale? is he able to retrace his steps in any capacity to steer the group? He'll attempt a Geography check as part of it if so (or maybe it's more of a memory check?).
[dice=Knowledge: Geography]1d20 + 2
It was dark and he's not terribly familiar with that stretch of road. He could probably narrow it down to a stretch of about half a mile or so - if you were to retrace your steps and search along the way (Perception or Survival checks) you might find some signs of the fight.
"If no one has any further business in town, then where is our first port of call? Yumiko suggested that Walthus or Old Megus may have some more detailed knowledge on the goblins numbers and whereabouts, which feels like a wise place to begin? I know neither, nor where to find them though, so I'll need someone to lead the way!"
"I'm not sure about Old Megus but Walthus lives somewhere in the northern part of the marsh, the goblin village is reported to be somewhere near the centre. There is a trail that the local fishermen use that is also supposed to lead to Walthus' residence. We may be able to question some of them on the way if you think it's worth our while. Yumiko mentioned Megus lives on the southern side. Might be the place to start?"
"Or we could go with more traditional logic and hit up the fisherman's trail first"
Yumiko pulls out the cleaning rod for her musket and draws a rough sketch of Sandpoint, Brinestump Marsh and the surrounds in the dirt for everyone to see.
"Us's here at Sandpoint, and here's Brinestump marsh a couple o' miles southwise around Sog’s Bay. There a cliff on the southly edge of the marsh here. Here's where the Soggy River runs into Sog’s Bay.
This linerly thing here is the New Fish Trail which goes into the swamp from the northwise edge. Walthus' shack lies on the New Fish Trail about here, give or take a piece of gravel, or the crap that Taletheus just decorated us's map with, tha spavined nag! About with ye!
This trail from the southwise edge of the swamp leads Old Megus's home. No one’s seen her in years though. This area westerways in the swamp is dangerous - no-folk ever came back from there.
An', if Us's righterly, about here (next to the rusted nail) in the centresome of the marsh is where the poxerly Licktoad's village is.
Us's been down in the swamp, on the New Fish Trail, a little, gatherin' sweetflag, red baneberries, virgin's bower and suchlike which grows abound. Us can show tha a small ways.
She looks around for assurance from the others that they understand (and haven't been inadvertently insulted by something she said).
Haelynn smiles at the stranger, "I am Haelynn," and placing a hand on her sister's shoulder, "this is Yumiko, my sister. It is a pleasure to meet you..."
The expression on Yumiko's face clearly says "Is it?" before she realises that might be a bad thing to say out loud.
"Taletheus here would only be to willing to assist. The offer extends to you as well, Yumiko, if it pleases you?"
Yumiko eyes up the horse, years of experience with animal animosity welling up inside her. "Us'll leave the paraphernalia here." she says dumping her kit unceremoniously on the ground several feet away. "Us wouldn't know how to wranglelate it on without making the beast spookersome."