As D'Ogryn asks about his daggers, Rabalar shakes his head. "I was more worried about getting you out and home than I was the weapons. I didn't look for any of my arrows, either. I'll need to be replacing them, too. That's okay, though. Arrows and daggers are much easier to replace than people."
As things wind down, and everyone gets ready to move out, the olf will retrieve his things, packing up like he's not expecting to come back. Because, well, expecting to come back would just be rude!
Thout looks at Edan, slumped in a chair. Edan looks worn, like he could use much more sleep, maybe even another full night's worth! Thout walks over to get his attention and squats down in front of him. "It seems you've made quite the effort patching up your friends. I know they're grateful; nothing feels better than relief from pain. I can see you're tired, but the information you have is very important to Saltmarsh, Geolin, and all of us. This goblin threat may be bigger than initially thought. Your input can help determine that.
"Please come with us to the Gaol, give a report, and you can return straightaway. Reports and discharging your duty are always better first hand."
Thout stands, looking Edan in the eye, "Come. Let's go."
Thout eyes widen slightly as he looks Edan over more closely, guessing that he is one of the caravan guards. "A guard refusing to report!?" He pauses, trying to cover his reaction. Taken aback by Edan's straightforward refusal to report and not sure exactly what to say, his words stumble before coming out. "We... mmm... I'm sure what you say about Rabalar is true, and clearly you deserve rest. You all do. I understand that this was a volunteer effort, but the Town Watch needs a full report. Every witness is important. Every account increases understanding. If nothing else, it establishes the first.
"You can be the first to make your report. Then, return to get your rest. Surely another guard understands the need to give his account."
The Party
Nan comes to Edan and stands by Edan takes a look at him and then back at Thout. "Tell Geolin that Edan is resting after tending to the wounds of both my granddaughter and her friend. If it was not for his and the other companion's care you would not have the two of these brave souls to answer his questions. Take the rest of the party and let this brave man get some rest. If he is needed he can attend to those matters after he gets some much-needed rest." He gives a very stern look...it reminds Thout of a hard anvil, unmoving and unyielding. Now the rest of you be off and get to the Gaol so that old long beard gets his questions answered.
At that Naia puts down her blanket and gathers her stuff. Zove sends Okware off to let him roam, hunt, and relax. She turns to Naia and joins her by Thout. As the two women do so D'ogryn stands up pats Edan on his shoulder and thanks him. Soros follows suit along with Rabalar and Thout nods realizing this is not a fight he will soon win.
Thout turns towards the sandy hill sharply. His broad features seem to blend well with is human features and it is clear he is frustrated. It is easy to read a frustrated dwarf and it seems it is easier to read a frustrated half-dwarf...
The party follows behind a few feet as they make their way up to the old coast road. Thout looks back a few times to make sure he is not out-pacing the recovering party members. It is clear that the work Edan did do benefit the two greatly.
The party passes the Full Moon Tavern on the right as they head northeast up the Common Road. Several townfolks see them and tip a hat, smile, or say good morning to them. Thout notices the townfolk seem to realize that this party has returned to a warm welcome. As they go by the Common Thout and the rest of the party see the members of the Wagon folk tending to their morning duties. Some townsfolk and even merchants seem to be haggling with them or making deals. Thout knew that wagon folk were greatly respected for their animal husbandry skills and were well-known craftsman of wood and garments. Horses, sheep, and goats, as well as fighting cocks, were always in great demand from these people. The party saw several wagonfolk childern working on juggling balls and other small objects at one wagon with a women who was teaching them various tricks. At another wagon children were at play; tumbling, spinning and even flipping end over end at times.
After a few moments they reach the Marketplace. It is already filling up with townsfolk, farmers, herders and all sorts of merchants. The town guard is about and as a few go by they tip their hands as the party walks by.
As the party makes their way north to the Gaol Naia sees Direcroft, the man that spoke out against her and her friends in the town meeting hall.
He is a tall man with dark black hair and a finely groomed beard and mustache. If memory serves her he is the guild master of tailors in the town and a bit of a braggart. He looks at the party and at Thout as he walks by...his assistant is by his side. His associate,a big man, really a young man, not broad of shoulders but not thin either and a bit shorter than Direcroft. Direcroft speaks to Naia as if to start a conversation but not appear to interested in the response... My dear girl it appears you made it back. It does my heart well to see that you made it back safely to our wonderful town. Tell me did you root out these dangerous goblins pillaging our good travellers? It will do my soul good to hear that you broke their little raiding party and sent them fleeing away from Saltmarsh. He looks at the entire party and as he does his associate stops; staying just back and to his right. He doesn't appear interested in the party but keeps his eyes on them none the less. Direcroft finishes speaking... Well it appears they got the best of a few of you... let us hope not to badly?
Naia makes eye contact with Direcroft, and his associate.
"Guildsman - you will hear what the council makes of our report in due course. We are alive. The same cannot be said for the goblins we met."
With that she carries on.
Soros doesn't acknowledge Direcroft's presence, not even bothering to slow his step as they pass until he realizes that Naia and others have stopped. He waits until the exchange is finished and the rest catch up to him.
Why waste the time and effort? The man is obviously a petty, self-important bureaucrat. In the grand scheme of the cosmos, the greatest tailor in all of Saltmarsh is no more relevant than its greatest termite.
Thout purses his lips and clasps his hands behind his back. He nods to Nan and turns back to the unyielding Edan. "Thank you for your service. Get some rest. We hope to hear from you soon," he says tightly. He then quickly turns and steps outside. Once out of view, he shakes his head and mutters a few words before collecting himself once more. "Father said there would be moments like this..."
Once everyone is prepared, he leads the way back to the Gaol.
On the way, he hears the tall, groomed man speaking to Naia. He turns his head, mouth agape, but says nothing. "These volunteers have put their lives on the line to protect people like you!? What is going on around here? What a day! And it's still morning!" He shuts his mouth, but the sarcasm and cattiness of his statement stick with him. He makes a mental note of the two men.
The Party and Geolin
Thout, clearly annoyed by all of todays events leads the party to the Gaol. As they walk up a town guard, the same one that was at his post when Thout left, knocks on the door. Just as Thout comes to the guard the door opens. The young man nods at Thout and gives a short smile to the party. Naia, Soros, Zove, and D'goryn recognize him. He is a young man and new to the guard. He comes from a family of fisherman and is a honest man, dutiful, and a bit naive.
Thout walks through the door and Corporal Thane is standing at the door. He is an older man, well in his forties, and broad of shoulder and chest. He has his hand on his sword and nods to Thout. Corporal Flynn said you were rounding up the hunting party. Good job! Commander Ironteeth is in his quarters best make your way there. Walthas was with him as well.
He looks the party over quickly as they go by. Zove your uncle was asking about you. He was worried when you didn't return last night. Best you let him know your well when you have the chance.
Zove looks a bit surprised at first and then realizes that she didn't say anything about her little adventure to him. Thank you, corporal, I will when this meeting concludes...
As they walk down the halls they see Grust Redbeard bring a young farmer out from the jail below. A half-orc of unsual size he is a good friend to Geolin. Grust smiles a toothy grin as he walks by the young man....obviously was drunk and got into a fight. He has a bruised eye, scratches, bruises, and a fat lip. The reek of puke and alcohol is apparent. Good morn! He says gruffly but with a bit of a upbeat perk in it. Most know that Grust is a big softy and served with Geolin in the wars. He gives the young man a pat on the near shoulder. Lets be off stinky...your wife is waiting for you out front...far worse than what I or commander Geolin and do to you...she worked up like a nest of wasps she is... They go by and you quickly realize that one is in a great deal of trouble.
Thout and the party comes to the commmander's door. Thout gives a stout knock at the oak door. Come in and close the door behind you when you do! Comes the obvious voice of Thout's uncle.
Thout opens the door and steps through. He holds it open for the party to come through. "Commander, the hunting party. One member is absent. He provided care for the others through the night. He said that... Rabalar?" He looks at the elf, "Rabalar could speak for him." His face is as expressionless and factual as he can manage.
Once the entire group has entered the room, Thout shuts the door and stands at ease.
As his name is called, the olf raises a hand to shoulder height, letting it fall after his identity should have been established. "I defer to the local citizenry for the initial details at least."
The Party and Geolin
Geolin walks around his desk and walks to a table by the window. He responds to Rabalar's comment. Very Well. Walthas steps back and lets him by. As Geolin grabs several mugs and begins to poor mulled wine into the mugs. Have a seat, the lot of you and relax, and have a mug of wine. Geolin hands the mugs to Naia, Zove, Soros, D'ogryn, and Rabalar. He begins to pour three more glasses. Thout stay and grab a seat. He hands Thout a mug as well as Walthas and takes the last one for himself and goes back around to desk and has a seat.
Rabalar can tell immediately that Geolin is a well-seasoned commander. Taking care of his charges first and then attending to the mission; this is not some fly by night watch commander put in charge due to favors. This is a grizzled war veteran used to being in charge and used to cutting through the garbage and getting to the point.
Geolin takes a long drink of his mug and puts it down and looks at each of the party members. He takes his time looking at Naia, D'ogryn, Rabalar, Soros, and Zove. There is a long quiet but he gives each of them time to settle in the chairs and get comfortable. Who is missing? I understand he was a caravan guard...a pair of them if I recall from Olaf. He looks at Rabalar for a moment. I take it you are his companion. It looks like he did good work mending the lot of you up. His rest is well deserved it appears. He pauses for a moment and turns to Naia. Naia this was your charge. Give me your report. Start from the beginning and work forward. I would like to know the names of the two guards who fought alongside you as well. Don't spare any details...If Naia misses something or one of you can fill in additional details speak up.
Walthas takes a long draw of his mug and has a seat by the fire.
"Ah..." Naia starts uncertainly. Speaking in front of the townspeople, and volunteering to investigate ambushed caravans - that was one thing. Heading off into the wilderness, with a crew of adventurers. That was another. But this? Naia is wholly unprepared for "making a report". In her inimitable fashion, she wings it.
"Well, Master Geolin. You'll remember it was a misty day yestermorn. We met by the road as planned. And D'ogryn and I had a...disagreement. It wasn't our best performance, and for a moment I thought Rabalar and Edan might leave us there and then. Eventually my better sense prevailed and I apologised for my slight."
Naia looks sidelong a the cook, and licks her lips nervously.
"Once our collective salt had settled, we followed the road until we came across the ambush site. Seems to have been ransacked. Rabalar and Okware, Zove's big tracking cat managed to find scent. What followed was fairly straigtforward to tell, but hard to experience. Trees, bushes, snares, but no goblins yet. We descended into the valleys and glens, and eventually found our selves in a canyon. We followed the water, round and down, until we were sure we could tell a pool beyond some cascading falls was the target."
Naia looks at the group of friends and brushes her hair back from her face, now not at all anxious. She continues.
"There and then is where things got messed. I seemed to think it might be a good idea for some of us to stay down while others went up - Rab, Dog and Edan. Soros, Zove, Okware and myself down below. Because I'm waterborn, I guess I was thinking. Anyways, we crept closer both up and down, and then the goblins spotted someone up there. From that point it happened fast. I'm not sure what happened above, but Soros and Zove and Okware fought bravely and wisely. For myself, while I pulled one goblin down with my harpoon I also sprung a trapped trap - they dropped a barrier to hem us in - I tried to climb it thinking myself clever, to get to them, but they loosed great logs after to crush me. It hurt....plenty."
Naia sighs, catching her breath.
"We saw evidence of a cave and some habitation, but it was kind of hard to tell whether their habitation is recent or old. We were banged up good, and left in a sorry state. We killed seven of them, and one seemed to be a leader of some measure."
Naia indicates Rabalar and Zove.
"I think these two, and maybe Soros might know particulars about the goblins and their tribe affiiation of what-have you."
Naia pauses, then quickly adds:
"These folk fought bravely and well, and should be commended, publically if at all possible. No occasion or similar, just let it be known that theyserved Saltmarsh bravely. That tailor guildsman - Direcroft - he minced words with us en route to you. I do not trust that man. If the goblins are in league with any in town it sure feels like he's the likely culprit. I dunno why I said that. Just a feeling I expect, but at sea, if you don't trust your feelings you wind up dead...."
Something in what Naia just said seems to spark a thought. "Next time in a fight, I'll
follow my heart and not think so grandly."
"Sir!" she adds as an afterthought.
D'ogryn continues to watch with a neutral blank look on his face.
Well this is going to be fun. She is trying her best I will give her that. Stop...no...do not say that...what the f+~~..oh my f@%+ing gods...Just give the man the essentials of what happened...not the dirty laundry...OK D. Calm down she is doing her best and talking is not her strong suit...ok calm...yes calm..WHAT!! why are you describing the water...calm...calm...
He holds Naia's gaze for a few seconds and mouths the simple phrase "Relax, take your time."
Thout walks to the table and grabs a mug. He pulls up a chair between the desk and the hunting party, then takes a seat and a long pull of the mulled wine.
Listening to Naia, he winces when Naia describes the logs crushing her between them and sets down his drink. "That's a tough one. No wonder the guard was worn out patching her up." He leans forward and clasps his hands, ready for the rest of the story.
Geolin Ironteeth
Geolin listens closely. At points, he seems to look over at Walthas who gives him a nod or quizzical look. Once Naia finishes he takes but a moment to take it all in.
Not bad for your first report. In the future stick to the facts. Who, what, when, where, and why...if you know it...if you don't simply stick to what you know. In our profession, we can't assume or guess. Gut instincts are wise to use but be very careful when stating them if mixed with emotion.
He gives a quick glance to each of the five members of the hunting party.
Seven goblins and the leader. I would call that a good day of work right there.
He looks at Zove who seems all too uncomfortable. He smiles at her softly and clears his throat.
Zove; do you have anything to add to this report?
Walthas Kang
Walthas looks at Naia and with a stern but pleased look. Good job on getting ya team out'f that canyon alive. Not many would survive that ambush and be'able to say that all of their team returned alive!
He looks over to D'ogryn as back to Rabalar as Geolin talks to Zove.
Zove
She starts to stand as if she needs to stand to speak but Geolin puts a hand up and signals her to sit as he smiles at her.
She looks around at the party and at Naia.
As Naia informed you I was down in the water with her and Soros. I am not sure what happened above but all hell broke loose above and below. We entered some sort of narrowing in the canyon... The stream narrowed as well and dropped into a natural pool. The goblins...well they choose it wisely. D'ogryn, Rabalar, and Edan took to the rope before we entered...climbed up. D'ogryn was the first and did the climb without the rope by hand it was an amazing climb and I am not sure any of us would have made it up..probably forty feet climb from top to bottom.
She looks at D'ogryn and then returns to talking just as quickly.
D'ogryn secured a rope and Rabalar was the next one up and Edan followed shortly after Naia, I, and Soros made our way towards the stream going into the pool. As Naia entered D'ogyrn and Rabalar were attacked...at least that is how I remember it. Naia entered the pool but came under fire from arrows above the pool. It was a mess at that point...we came under fire from both sides at points but the three above took care of the goblins above us. We tried to get to the goblins in the pool but they were up in the cliffs and we were in the water. Okware, my cat took a hit from a poisoned arrow...from the leader. Thankfully between Soros and Rabalar he was slain before he could make a killing blow on my cat or myself...
She gives a quick glance and a smile to Rabalar and Naia looking for a bit of confidence as she continues.
They appear to have just bedded into those caves... There were two caves one on each side. Freshly killed bullfrogs they had just cleaned were hangning up along with clay pots that were human-made; I suspect they were human made...too well done for goblins...oh I have these.
She lays out some necklaces made of bones and sinew...These are not from the Dreadwood but from a swamp or marsh. They are lizard and snake skulls as is the leather that binds them. I also found these and they appear to be human made. She lays out two copper bracelets with vine like carvings in them and a silver ear ring. The leader had these on him. I am not sure they mean anything and probably came from people they robbed on the road.
She looks at Soros when she finishes and back to Geolin. Soros found some bone or wood containers with poison in them. Smelled awful... She looks to Naia and to Geolin. Geolin I am done with hunting goblins...I almost lost Okware in that glen. I would prefer to not engage in any more fighting for a while.
The olf takes a mug, and enough drink to be polite, before settling in and listening to the tales.
When Geolin eventually indicates that he's ready for Rabalar's report, the olf puts the mug down and stands up.
"The first indication of trouble was at the wagon ambush, actually. The turn of the road, the surrounding terrain, it was a near perfect ambush site, and it was clear a small party of goblins used it well. This, of course, indicated a far more organized and disciplined group than is typical of most goblin raiders. We followed their tracks back to a natural canyon hidden between the road and the coast. The unnatural discipline was displayed again by the fact that the trail clearly indicated they took one fork, but we caught the fact they doubled back to the other fork for their actual descent into the area. We followed the same fork they had used, and encountered multiple prepared traps which eventually forced us down into a river gorge." The olf shrugs at this point.
"As I hope you expect, starting down that gorge bothered me, watching the walls climb to either side, looking for the obvious ambush. It had to be coming. We spotted movement, and accidentally alerted them to our awareness, so they retreated to their back-up site. As we moved further down the gorge, we reached a very thin choke point right at the top of a small waterfall. I called it at that point, and was unwilling to move into the next ambush point. This is when the cook decided to make his nearly impossible climb and secure a rope for us to follow him up. We were unable to convince the others to ascend at that point, so the best chance to keep them alive was to engage the enemy and disrupt the ambush. We engaged, and the typical chaos of combat was enhanced with the narrow gorge, waterfall, and the specialized arrows the goblins were using to deliver a spore-based poison. The poison took the cat out of the fight, but we all seemed to handle it well enough. There were seven goblins slain, including their leader, I believe."
He nods to the other olf. "Investigating the shallow caves they were attacking from, there was evidence they spent a good deal of their time in those caves, but there was no evidence of any materials from the wagon raid. Because of this, I am not willing to say we got the entire group. Their poison, jewelry, and such clearly indicated they are not from the immediate area. I didn't recognize any symbols or materials, so I do not believe they are from the Eastern edge of the Hool Marsh."
He stops, and locks his gaze with Geolin. "A well-trained and disciplined foreign force in a fortified camp, raiding passing travelers with no evidence of looting? They have got to be a forward recon force, but I have no idea for whom, or to what end. This smells like real trouble to me."
He breaks the eye contact, looking down. "Any questions?"
D'ogryn stands up and looks around the room. He kept his hands behind him in a relaxed manner with his voice calm. He states his "report" in clear and precise words.
The reports that have been given so far are...correct. I have nothing to add that is different form those stories....other than...
He pauses for a second or two as if he is not sure how to put into words his thoughts.
The actions and abilities of these goblins are different than what I know of them. They had plenty of time in training and executing that training into a well thought out trap and defensive tactics. To me that would mean there is something or someone motivating them into a discipline unit. Who or what that may be....???? I do not know.
He sits down and waits for this to be over so that he can get back to work.
Geolin Ironteeth
He lets Rabalar and D'ogryn finish. He clears his throat and takes a big gulp from the mug. The fact that those goblins were in such an organized force is concerning. Obviously, Rabalar is not just a caravan guard and I would suspect your friend is not just a caravan guard as well considering the care he gave these young people. I assume you have some experience with the Dreadwood goblins based on your report and your ability to keep this young team of hunters out of harms way. I would say you did all of us a service yesterday.
He turns to Naia:
Naia I am not sure Master Direcroft has anything to do with the affairs..and it is not wise to go accusing that man of anything without any real proof; so keep to that to yourself. He has been trying to edge his way on to a council seat for a while and I think this is just one in a long string of many attempts to make the council members look foolish. He does a poor job of trying to weasel his way on to it... I am not sure I trust him as far as I can toss him but I am not sure he is the type to work with goblins or have the ability to manage them from afar. I will have some of my guards and other resources look into his whereabouts and dealings for the last month or so just to make sure.
He looks at the entire party. Zove I realize you need a break and you are welcome to take your leave now or stay. As I have another mission for the party if they are willing to take it. By the way.
He pulls out a bag of coins and tosses it up in the air and catches it. Seems to test its weight and soft tosses it to Naia. This is as promised by the Lord Mayor. Fifty Keoland gold coins for your party's service.
Zove
As Geolin tosses the coin to Naia the young olf maiden stands up.
Thank you Commander Geolin; I believe I will take my leave and reflect in the forest on these past days events.
See turns to Naia, Soros, D'ogryn, and Rabalar. I wish you well and if you ever need my assistance please seek me out.
At that she turns and makes her way to the door and closes it behind her.
There is a brief silence in Zove's passing both Geolin and Walthas drop their heads for a moment and peer at each other as the party seem to take a moment to glance at each other. Thout can see this is an uncomfortable moment as he looks around at the small party.
Walthas Fang
After a moment or two of silence he stands up on Geolin's queue. Zove is a good girl and in time she will be fine...make sure you check up on her she will need her friends in these times.
He looks at the five and then to Geolin and to Thout.
We need to make sure those goblins are actually broken. He turns to a map on the wall behind Geolin's desk. That glen is just west of the old house that everyone says his haunted. I suspect if the goblins broke they would rally near or in that home. It has been long abandoned and there is a good chance they are hold up there. Now I know all of the local rumors say about the house but my concern is the goblins. We need to root them out and drive them off. Then we need to figure out why they came out in the open... We need you to go to house and ensure that they didn't reform or rally there. If they did it is your job to make sure they stay broken and flee the area completely. Geolin has assigned his nephew Thout to your team if you will have him. He is decent with the ax and has his uncle's blood in him... He turns to Thout and back to the party and leaves it at that.
Geolin Ironteeth
He stands up and walks back around the desk as he looks at the map.
I suspect those goblins came from the Hool Marsh but as Rabalar stated and I am in agreement I don't believe they came from the eastern edges because we have never had an issue with goblins from the Hool Marsh...which presents a problem. What made them come this far out? Right now we need to focus on making sure they go back to where they came from. So if you are up for it I need you to back out to that house and make sure they are not hold up in that place.
Despite the somber mood brought on by Zove's departure, Thout looks down at the floor and smiles. He quickly recovers, stands up straight, and looks at Walthas "Thank you." He turns toward the group, "I'd be honored to join your group. I'm sorry your friend won't be there, but you broke up the goblins once, and I'd love to help in making sure they don't get back together." He pauses briefly, "That is, if you can use the help."
Naia's face reddens as she receives a dressing down from Geolin.
"As you say. Sir. I'll keep my opinions to myself. Until they are facts. Sir."
...
As Naia catches the coin pouch she does some quick math.
Hmm. D'og, Soros, Zove - Rab, Edan and me.
Naia looks around at her friends, some new, one old.
"8 gold, 3 silver each. I'll make sure Zove gets her share."
...
"Master Fang - after a small parcel of re-equipping, I'm sure we will be on our way to the house - some of us were keen to reconnoitre it already....Thout, your ax will be welcome. Thank you for your continued confidence in us, Masters."
I will be at the Mermaid....
D'orgryn takes his share and head out the door for the Merry Mermaid.
Soros
Soros stayed seated through out the entire period of questioning. A few times Geolin and Walthlas gave him a quick look. At times he thought they were gauging his expressions. When D'ogryn stood and Naia spoke he decided to stand up as well.
Commander Geolin; there is not much I have to offer past what Zove and Naia described to place in the glen. I was there as well and what they have provided in the way of the report is true. The goblins we encountered used various poisons to deter us. Sneezeweed was one that Zove spoke about, a natural substance that can cause sneezing, coughing, and choking. The other was some sort of poison that is naturally produced by a creature of the swamp. The poison was a dark blue milky substance mixed with what appeared to be fat. I assume the fat was used to smear it on the arrows and darts they had for their bows and blowguns. Sneaky creatures really...if not for the entire group working together I am sure we would have perished and been in the cooking pot of those terrible creatures.
He looks around to the rest of the party. I will be at my family's residence for a while but I plan to go to the Mermaid to meet D'ogryn there. I suggest we meet back there at some point today and we can discuss our next actions with the house and such.
Thout nods his head towards Naia, "Thank you. It will be my pleasure to be a part of your team. I shall meet you at... at the Mermaid? this afternoon. We can make plans then."
Once the rest of the party has taken leave, Thout stands, excitement beaming from him, and faces his uncle, "Uncle, Commander Geolin, thank you for this assignment. I could not ask for anything more. I know how serious this task is, and I'll not let you down."
A sense of purpose surges within Thout. A powerful confluence has emerged that even the young Thout could not deny. His interest in alchemy, his training in battling goblins, serving his family, and serving his community all flowed together within him, giving a feeling of fulfillment that he has never before experienced. "I know that I'm on the path Fharlanghn has put before me. May I tread it well."
"Commander, I would like to upgrade my shield. Before we leave to further investigate the goblins, I'd like to get a stronger, sturdier one. Could I trade in my current one and pay the difference to the Town Watch?"
Walthas Fang
He turns to Thout. This is not a store... Go to the armory by the barracks and pick out a more suitable shield. I am sure you can find one. While you are at it there are a few quiver of arrows grab them for your group. And come see me in the yard and I will pass along a battle kit for you before you leave.
The Party
As the party that attended the meeting with Geolin walk out of the Gaol they begin to part ways to handle whatever business is at hand. The day is windy (typical of spring). It is a salty damp air and as the day moves on the air is sure to become thick. You walk by the guards and are standing at the front of the Gaol.
Thout's face reddens, even if it may not be noticed through his dwarven skin, "I... I didn't mean to say it was a store. I just didn't want to cheat the citizens of Saltmarsh." He straightens up, " I'll leave my shield and grab a stronger one. I'll also get the arrows and other weapons the group may need. Thank you, sir. I'll come to you in the yard once I am done at the armory."
Thout leaves Walthas and Geolin, heading to the armory, "Hard men. No mercy. But at least we'll be equipped." He enters the room, taking in its slightly musty smell. "Ahhh. The smell of metal, wood, and leather. Hard to go wrong with that." He slowly reviews the equipment, taking his time, admiring the workmanship, and imagining what can be done with properly wielded weapons. He reviews the shields, picks the sturdiest he can find, and sets his lighter one down. He selects the weapons as Walthas suggested and makes his way out, shutting the door behind him. Pulling it tight, he ensures it is secure and reports to Walthas in the yard.
"Meet at the Mermaid? That's where this started, wasn't it?" The olven warrior finds himself amused by the small circular pattern.
"I told the cook I would stop and get some daggers along with some replacement arrows. Anyone know where I should go in this hamlet for those supplies?"
He has every intention of making those purchases and taking the daggers to D'Ogryn before returning to the Mermaid.
Though it is a chore to return home when Naia has purchases to make in town, there are a few good reasons.
First, she checks on Edan, and helps her grandmother prpare a hearty lunch for the caravan guard. As usual, Naia isn't much chop in the kitchen, beyond doing what she is told as best she can. While chopping, she starts a difficult conversation with her grandmother.
"Gran, I...want to sell the chainshirt. It may have saved your life, but my fighting...style is different. I need to be able to move more freely. And not sink if it comes to that. I know I cherished it all those years, looked after it and kept it clean - but now I need something that will suit...me."
Naia looks up, looking at her powerful, brave, dear old grandma. Tougher than her whole party she is sure. She knows the armor could be given to her brothers, or kept in the family. But her need is now, and so is the towns'.
"Will you let me?" she asks.
Rabalar, Soros, and Thout
The three adventurers stand in front of the Gaol and see D'ogryn making is way back to the Merry Mermaid; he seems to fluidly move in and out of the crowd with no bother to anyone around him. Catlike in his movements. Naia has left; headed back to her home her movements are bit more stiff and the three realize that both of them would need the night to rest and recover from the wounds they received in the glen.
Thout walked out with two quivers of arrows and a heavy wooden round shield strapped to his back and carrying a leather bag. He smiles as Rabalar finishes his comment about needing arrows and he brings up both quivers and gives them a little shake and gives him a wink. Soros gives him a sly smile in response. Rabalar, I don't think you need to purchase those arrows thanks to our newest companion but Berian's Supplies on the east side of town...just three roads over has what you need. I can take you there if you like.
As they talk several town folk walk by and say good morning to them and smile. People seem more pleasant or at least more cheerful. Two young town girls carrying baskets of bread and small clay pots walk by and smile. As they walk by the giggle and whispering to each other is apparent... Soros seems a bit surprised by it all.
"At Walthas' instruction, I have liberated these fine arrows from the armory. I believe you could best put them to use," says Thout to Rabalar, rattling the arrows in their quivers. "Sounds like you have quite the way with these." Hearing Soros' response, Thout offers, "I'd be happy to accompany you to Berian's Supplies. I'd be interested in seeing if they have any throwing axes available." He brushes the surface of the shield with his hand, wiping off an imaginary streak of dirt. "Now that I have this great new shield, that would cover my immediate needs."
As the town folk and young women pass, Thout smiles and faces Rabalar and Soros, "Looks like you are earning quite the reputation. Word of deeds, good or ill, travels fast in towns like these." He chuckles at Soros' surprise, "No sneaking around Saltmarsh for you two, that's for sure."
Taking the quivers, the olf nods to the half-dwurf. "As always, the hope is not to need these, but they prove too valuable too often to leave behind. My thanks. It seems I need only the daggers, then."
He falls behind the other two as they start walking, grinning at Thout's comment about sneaking through town. "I'll try not to take that as a challenge."
When they arrive, he'll try to save time by talking to the clerk. "The cook, D'Ogryn, lost his weapons fighting the goblins, and needs new knives or daggers. What do you have to help?"
"Looks like you are earning quite the reputation. Word of deeds, good or ill, travels fast in towns like these." He chuckles at Soros' surprise, "No sneaking around Saltmarsh for you two, that's for sure."
"Apparently the news lacks for details, if your uncle's estimation of the people of Saltmarsh is correct." Would they be so keen if they knew of my magical pursuits?
At Berian's Supplies the young wizard seems unconcerned as Rabalar attempts to acquire new knives for D'ogryn, casually inspecting the wares on display. I wouldn't be surprised if D'ogryn had sharper knives at the Mermaid than any we could acquire here. He idly picks out a piece of cured leather, which he purchases when Rabalar's exchange is complete. Not a bad component to have more of, I think.
As the three of you make your way into the store you notice it is well kept on the outside and well maintained. As you entire the door it rings two bells above the door. It is a sharp sound that lacks any sort of melody.
As you enter you see tables set up in the middle of the store as well as shelves against the walls. An older man, of normal stature, is stacking up tapered candles. An old calico cat is cleaning its paws under the table and gives you a momentary stare and goes back to cleaning its paws.
Soros gives him a nod and he casually makes his way around the store looking at various shelves. He pulls a piece of cured leather and seems to hold on to it. The old man gives the three of you a smile Well met and good day to you. If there is anything I or my young son can do for you let us know. He looks to the door that appears to go into another room and back to the three of you. He sees Soros grab the leather Those pieces are locally made and of fine craftsmanship. They will work for patches on your coats or armor. Soros passes him five copper pieces and the old man takes the coins and checks them. Fair enough good sir if there is anything else please let me know. Is voice is quiet and low and the man has a sharp coastal Keolandish accent.
Rabalar asks about daggers and knives and Berian calls his younger son out; probably early to late twenties. He looks like a younger version of his father. He shows you several locally made daggers all of which have good blades, balance, and handles. The young man says they are 18 sp each or if you buy both they are 15sp for each. He also shows you three additional daggers with better craftsmanship and made from better steel. He states they are 2gp each. He then shows you a dagger of master craftsmanship it is an exquisitely made Keolandish dagger and that is older probably forty to fifty years old. The blade has seen hard use but has been well tended to and holds a keen edge...he states it is for sale for 156gp with a handmade scabbard. He also states he has other well-made weapons like swords, hand axes, throwing axes, and spears. They are not new but have been kept well and have proven their value.
Nan
Nan continues chopping onions, carrots, and radishes. She looks at Naia and goes back to chopping the vegetables. "Naia, that was a gift to you. Do with it as you please. It doesn't hold any special place in my heart. It was my first chainmail shirt...it wasn't my last piece of armor worn." She finishes with the vegatables and puts them in a bowl and grabs several clusters of rock boiled rock crabs.
"If the shirt doesn't fit your style I would recommend you find an alternative." She coughs and then clears her throat. "Truth be told my first piece of armor was a beaten hide shirt. I had to patch it up before I could even use it."
Taking the quivers, the olf nods to the half-dwurf. "As always, the hope is not to need these, but they prove too valuable too often to leave behind. My thanks. It seems I need only the daggers, then."
"You're welcome to the arrows, Rabalar," says Thout while slapping the olf on the back. "And I'd say they're at their most valuable when left in the others' behinds!" He chuckles slightly at his own joke.
Thout looks around the shop, admiring the finer weapons he comes across. He makes his way to the axes, picking up one or two, checking their weight and balance. Hearing the younger shopkeeper state the availability of well-made axes, he sighs, "Someday, I'll be able to afford such an axe, but for now, I'll have to make due with what I've got. Wouldn't mind taking a look, though, if you have the time."
Examining the Keolandish dagger, Rabalar nods before returning it, hilt-first,to the young man. "Very nice, indeed, but beyond my budget. He deserves something like that for his tenacity, if nothing else. I'll have to settle for getting him a pair of the better steel blades, please."
Once the group finishes and heads to the Mermaid, the olf doesn't sit until after he's found D'Ogryn, and handed him both blades, one in either hand, hilt first. "The trick is not putting the pointy bit in the other guy, but in keeping his point bit out of you."
Thout and Bernot
The young man takes Thout to the weapons rack they have in the back.
We don't have any new masterworked weapons but we do have older weapons that are seasoned with experience. We also have well made Keolandish weapons that will fit your needs.
He picks up several hand axes, of obvious Keolandish make, and points to several on the rack. These are all locally made and have the forge stamp on them. They are usually 6gp but I can sell them to you for 5gp. I have a few throwing axes as well, also locally made. They are normally 8gp but I can sell them to you for 7gp. Well balanced and will hold up to the sea if taken care of and oiled if that is your need. I have boarding axes as well for the same price as the hand axes.
He then goes to a rack that is locked and pulls out a key and unlocks the bar and opens the door. These are the rest of our lot of masterwork weapons. As my Da said they are not new but are in very good condition. I have a boarding ax that is of unknown origin but you can clearly see the craftsmanship. Thout can tell it is human-made and probably from South...Hold of the Sea Princes. It is well made...probably worth 300 to 500gps... The young man chimes in...We can sell it for 158gps. Thout can tell that weapon had seen many trails..and it had been tested many a time. It looked the part and could tell it was a weapon of many experiences.
We also have a throwing ax and I believe this is a mountain dwarf if my memory serves. Thout can see that it is dwarvish made and it is a fine throwing ax...it was a guard ax...by the stamp..part of a set of axes and of a special guard of some type. The ax is well over 200 years old. The young man states This is a rare item but we can let it go for 405gp and we can have the handle rewrapped for you as well at no cost in the Dwarven tradition if you like. He points to a war hammer...which Thout can tell is dwarven made as well. We have that as well...it is for sale for 268gp...a good deal for a masterworked item. Belonged to a dwarven cleric who passed through here not to long ago heading north. He sold the weapon as he no longer needed it.
Thout looks over the items as Bernot shows them off and explains their provenances. The throwing axes are brought out, and Thout grunts his approval. He finds one that he favors and says, "7 gp is a good and honest deal. I'll take one of these."
When the rack of masterwork weapons is unlocked, Thout has some difficulty in containing his obvious interest, particularly with the axes. "This is of fine quality!" he remarks, as he holds the boarding axe in his hand while rubbing the wooden handle with his thumb. "Fine, indeed..." he almost mutters to himself. His eyes pop when he recognizes the throwing axe, "Now this is something special," he says almost reverently. He hefts it, swinging it a couple times, and enters a practiced throwing stance, "Beautiful! I could get used to having one of these!" His smile leaves his face as he hands it back, "I hope to come back for this one. Sadly I cannot afford it now, but I truly appreciate you taking the time to show it to me."
The hammer he recognizes as special, too, especially at the stated price, "How are they letting something like this go for so little? Should I be looking for a dwarven sweat shop!?" He takes the hammer, feeling its balance. "I am an axe man, myself, but this is such a good price for the quality. Perhaps someday I can take this off your hands as well."
Once all the weapons are shown off and replaced, Thout thanks him once more and pays him the 7gp for the throwing axe. "I may have to find that cleric who had that hammer. I can only guess what stories he must have to tell, including why he would no longer need such a fine hammer!"
On the way to the Mermaid, he looks back over his shoulder at Berian's Supplies and comments, "Saltmarsh is small, but they have some fine weapons. I certainly hope to come back here once I have a little more gold." He turns his head to look straght ahead, "To the Mermaid! And to whatever plans we have for the goblins and this abandoned house..." His mind wanders to the rumors he heard on his journey to Saltmarsh. "Goblins may not be our only trouble at that alchemist's home..."
Naia nods as her grandmother gives her assent. She hugs her elder grarefully, squeezing her tight and pecking her on the cheek. With that given, she rushes to gather up the heavy hauberk of mail, wincing a little in pain as she does so. Checking on Edan, and telling him where she goes Naia heads into town.
As she passes into town Naia feels a change, in herself or her attitude to the town she is not sure. She feels both more - and less - a part of it, and more sure of herself. The loss of Zove pulls at her, but she smiles to herself, happy in the knowledge at least that the elf maid is alive and well.
Finding Berian's store she steps in and immediately begins perusing the available defensive options.
"I'm looking to trade this chainshirt, Nan Temlow's first by all accounts. It...doesn't suit me. I need something lighter, and then, on the offensive side, I'll need a bow. Long if I can afford it, short if I can't. I have a handful of gold as well. I'll need your advice, and possibly a good deal if I'm to stay alive against goblins."
D'ogryn walks to the merry mermaid and enters through the kitchen door. He goes about making sure everything is going well and that all is in good hands before he tries to get some work done for that night. After some time trimming a rack of ribs, he added his personal spices to the meat. Patting them into the meat to form a sort of crust and sets them off to the side. He continues with his work as if nothing else in the world mattered. He did not know how much time had past but at some point he looked up to see Rabalar enter the main room. Wiping his hands off on an apron, D'ogryn enter the main room to meet with the man who he just fought beside.
Before he can say anything the ranger hands him two knives. He looks down at the blades as Rabalar give him some advice. Thank you very much. He is about to say more but stops and nods towards the kitchen. Once in and out the back door of the kitchen he stops and looks at the blades again. D'ogryn holds the knives up and looks down the blade. His head moves slightly from side to side as he examines the weapon. At one point he even sniffs the weapons. I do not know the weapons smith's mark but did you get these over at Berian's place? Good man...tends to mix his honing oil with animal fat. Heats the blades up slightly as he sharpens them. Claims the animal fat helps to keep the metal shavings from sticking to the blade. Good quality...nice balance...how much did they set you back?
Berian and Bernot
Thout concludes his transaction and the three adventurers make their way out of the store. They make their way to the Merry Mermaid to meet with the rest of their party.
Berian returns to stacking up his candles and his son comes out to him a moment later after speaking to another man that was in the store while the three young adventurers were in. He was locking up the racks after completing the sale with Thout.
Father you do realize those are the very same men that rid us of the goblin raiding party to the east. Berian looks at him for a moment and then back to the candles he had finished stacking up. There that is all of them. He looks at the candles and back at Bernot. I didn't know that. There are rumors going around that they might not have actually fought or killed anything at all. Just went off into the woods and got themselves hurt. Bernot looks at him with a look of surprise and frustration. Father, the man I spoke to works the docks and the Excise officer confirmed that they found the goblins and defeated them in the woods east of here. His father seems to frown for a moment. That is far different then the rumors being spread around the town. We need to steer clear of the politics... Maybe we can do something for them.
A moment later the bells on the door sound and a tall red headed women walk in. Berian looks up and recognizes the lass from his many encounters with her mother and her grand parents. He had Naia was the one that lead the hunting party to find the goblins. Has she walked in and closed the door she noticed the cat perched on the shelf looking at her. Berian's son was the spitting image of him but only younger and taller. Mistress Naia it has been a long time since I have seen you in here. I believe it was with your Father last summer. I hope you are doing well? Naia chats with him and Bernot about the well being of the Temlow family and Naia cuts to her reason for being in the store.
"I'm looking to trade this chainshirt, Nan Temlow's first by all accounts. It...doesn't suit me. I need something lighter, and then, on the offensive side, I'll need a bow. Long if I can afford it, short if I can't. I have a handful of gold as well. I'll need your advice, and possibly a good deal if I'm to stay alive against goblins."
Bernot gives his father a quick glance and he begins to turn and walk away to the back. Berian looks at the chainmail shirt. May I see the shirt and inspect it? Naia lays it out on an open table. Bernot comes back from the back room and stands by his father as he looks at the chainmail shirt. Berian goes over it from neck to arm sleeves and down to the bottom seams. Several times he stops and looks at repairs made on the shirt. Turns it over and does the exact same thing on the back and then lays it out so he can inspect the left and right sides. After nearly ten minutes of inspecting it he stands up and folds it up. This chain shirt has seen many days of battle. It has been repaired on numerous occasions and it appears to have been completely refurbished at one point having the entire left side restitched with cord and new links. It is a fine shirt and has clearly proved it's value. It is a well made shirt Naia...I can give you forty gold pieces in coin or I can give you sixty gold pieces in trade. I do this as a favor to you and your fine family. He turns and whispers in his son's ear and then Bernot turns and goes to the back. He turns back and begins speaking again. I am by no means an expert in how one wears or uses a suit of armor or weilding weapons. What I do know is what the value and worth of them are...years of experience in talking with smiths and craftsman as well as those that utilize them give me a unique perspective. Ahh here they are...as Bernot returns with several pieces of gear.
He lays them all out quickly and steps back; he seems interested in listening to the transaction.
Now if you are looking for lighter and more mobile I have several new pieces that will meet your needs. He points to a bundle of armor. Studded Leather...a bit lighter and less restrictive but still problematic. I can offer this for 23gp to you. Here is leather armor which is about ten pounds lighter so less restrictive and not effective as studded leather or a chain shirt. I can sell one like this to you for 13gp. Here is what I think would fit your needs far better. I have a studded leather shirt and a Ring Mail Shirt. Both are far lighter and far less restrictive both a great deal lighter. Neither offer the protection of a full set of studded leather or a chain shirt. The Ring Mail shirt is a little more protective but is heavier...at about seventeen pounds compared to twenty five pounds. The Studded leather shirt at twelve pounds is a great deal lighter. I can offer the leather shirt for 12gp for you and the studded leather shirt for 22gp. These are good light weight pieces of protection for someone needing mobility.
He then turns to Bernot and tells him to go to the back and grab a short bow and a long bow as well as the short bow in the locked rack. He leaves and returns several moments latter. I have a good long bow from North Keoland that I sale but it is costly at 75gp but I can sale it to you for 70gp. I think the short bow will be fine for you and your needs. This is a fine shortbow actually sold to me by a wood elf that trades with us often out of the Dread. It is elven made and I can sell it to you for 26gp. Very good price for what you are getting and I will throw in a quiver of arrows as well at that price. One final piece I have is a masterwork short bow that is human made. It lifts it up and hands it to Naia along with the other short bow. She is by no means an expert but the craftsmanship of the master crafted short bow is clear. This is a not a new piece and has seen many uses by several owners. I am not sure how old it is but I would imagine it is nearing sixty to seventy years of age. I can sell this one to you for 260gp...I know this is out of your budget but I thought I would mention it. Again I will include a quiver and twenty arrows at that price. Naia lays the two bows down on the table and takes in what Berian has presented her.
Once in and out the back door of the kitchen he stops and looks at the blades again. D'ogryn holds the knives up and looks down the blade. His head moves slightly from side to side as he examines the weapon. At one point he even sniffs the weapons. I do not know the weapons smith's mark but did you get these over at Berian's place? Good man...tends to mix his honing oil with animal fat. Heats the blades up slightly as he sharpens them. Claims the animal fat helps to keep the metal shavings from sticking to the blade. Good quality...nice balance...how much did they set you back?
"Yes, I got them at Berian's. His boy helped me look through his selection. They didn't cost me a copper more than I was willing to pay. I promised to get your blades replaced." He stops talking and extends his right arm, palm up and fingers first, raising it slightly as he moves it towards you. "They had a much nicer Keolandish blade, but it was well out of my price range."
He looks uncomfortable for a moment before continuing. "If you plan to go to the abandoned house, you should get healed up better than you have so far. Not much of a way to do that other than magic. Anybody in town able to help out like that?"