Soros
Listening to Rabalar and D'ogryn talk he responds to Rabalar's last question.
Zove has stated she would be willing to help us...I am not sure if she is still in town. She has a habit of going on ventures when not tied to the stables from what I understand. I took a good inventory of all things magical in the town. Diomar Lain the Guild Master of Alchemist would be our easiest place to seek out healing. Healing salves and such... There is a rumor that Tithane the Tinker Gnome, the Baker's Guild Master was once a alchemist but retired. He is good friends with Diomar and I would imagine we might seek out aide from him if needed...I don't know this for sure.
He turns and points to a table and looks back to Rabalar, Thout and D'ogryn. The four take a seat. Rabaler and D'ogryn seem interested in Soro's assessment as does Thout who is the newcomer to the group and the town.
Now as far as churches help will be scant unless in dire need but I feel that if we needed it the House of Hymns would help us. Lyra Ivessa is the High Priestess of the temple of Pelor. She is also one of the town councilors. See has taken a keen interest in our affairs of late is the rumor I have heard.
Soros continues...There is also Zove's mentor Lira Tolivar the Druid of the Old Faith. I believe she would help us as well and be more then willing to assist us...I have heard there is always a small price for her assistance... in the form of a favor or deed to be done in the name of nature and good spirits. There are other temples in the town with those able to heal but I am not sure if they would be willing unless we had coin to fill their coffers.
D'ogryn is a bit surprised by the offer of two daggers.
I am not sure what to say. Thank you and I will repay you what coin you spent on them. I had hoped to travel back to the hideout to recover what I could and to make sure any traps that we missed by chance were disabled. Once word gets out of what we did and where it is...well these kids will want to see the area.
It was an odd to hear D'ogryn use the word kid when he himself is not that old.
That blade from Keoland is nice but sometimes simple is better than fancy.
Noticing how uncomfortable Rabalar was with the topic of healing. D'ogryn reassures him with a quiet tone.
That house is not going anywhere... my shoulder is tight but I still can cook.
He half shrugs and give a slight smile.
Besides I can only take so much time off. Irwish has been very kind to me and I do not feel right leaving him hanging. I know he will be willing to let me take more time off but I do not feel right taking advantage of his trust.
Listening to Soros talk about magical healing...
If Zove is willing...That would be the best step..if not, one of the Alchemist. I am not keen on owing a favor without knowing what I am getting myself into. I also would rather keep my affairs out of the politics. There are stories that get bigger with each telling and I do not want to be used in some power play. Intentional or not.
He takes a look around the room.
Maybe Zove has a poultice or something she can give me.
I hope Dalt can hear my prayers.
Berian's
"Well enough, if a little worse for wear, Master Berian." Naia manages kindly after Berian asks after her.
Naia has great trouble hiding her impatience as Berian's meticulous inspection of the chainshirt surpasses the one-minute mark. Her frustration reaches boiling point as more minutes pass and then Berian turns it over to check the other side!
She wanders the store, taking in the arrayed equipment and noting a few items that catch her eye.
I'll be weighed down a little more, sure, but still able to move easier in a pinch.
As Berian concludes his inspection and rolls out his offer Naia locks eyes with his son. She then inspects the studded leather herself, ignoring all the other pieces. She bends and flexes it at the joints and hits it a few times with her open hand to test its mettle.
"The studded leather will suffice - more protection rather than less is warranted, and still it affords me the movement I'll need."
Naia tests the shortbow, unable to hide her admiration for the elf-made weapon, nor her satisfaction with the offer of a quiver thrown in too.
"I'll admit to being disappointed with your offer of sixty-in-trade for Nan's shirt, but I believe it is fair, and your offer on the shortbow and quiver more than honours your bargain." Naia smiles matter of factly.
"I'm looking for a few other weapons - a small mace if you have one, and a gauntlet, spiked if you have it. I'm tired of just being a harpoonist. Sure, it's my mainstay, but I need some close options."
Something occurs to the young woman.
"Do you have any salted or preserved meat? And a coil of rope."
Berian and Bernot
Berian picks up the studded leather armor. That is a good choice Mistriss Naia. I realize the offer on your chainmail shirt is probably not what you were expecting but I assure it is the best offer I can give you for the shirt.[b] He looks at Bernot and points to the shortbow. [b] Son, grab a quiver, a nice one, and make sure it has a score of arrows in it for her.
Bernot looks at Naia, with some admiration. You will want to sharpen the arrow heads when you have time. They are usable but not as sharp as they should be. I believe your companion, the elven scout, can do that for you. He was just in here with two others. He turns and makes his way to the back area. As he does his father calls out some additional instructions. Grab a coil of hemp rope as well and bring that mace from the rack.
What sort of rations were you looking of? How many days and for how many people? We have an assortment of rations for your needs; trail rations at 4sp a day, elven trail rations at 36sp per day, we also have dwarven trail rations for 38sp per day. I can give you 10% off if you by 10 days of trail rations.
Bernot brings out the rope, quiver, arrows, and a light mace.
Berian picks up the mace and hands it to Naia. We don't have any heavy maces and this one is a new one we can sell for 3gp.
He looks at the table and seems to stare at it for a good moment. Your total would be 55 gp 15sp without the rations. He gives Bernot a look and Bernot kind of nudges him... Berian turns to Naia. I can throw in 8 days worth of trail rations if you like and we can call it even as a favor to you and your good family.
Berian's
Naia looks over the assembled items, hefts the mace experimentally a few times and nods in satisfaction.
"And a spiked gauntlet to take it to 60-in-trade? If you don't have one perhaps I'll place an order. At any rate, you drive a good bargain Berian...and thanks Bernot!" she adds with a smile. Which drops as the lass seems to figure she's a little more worse for wear than she thought, and all this gear and 8 days trail rations, while not excessive might be more than she can manage this morning, especially if she doesn't don the armor right here and now.
"Berian, can you spare Bernot the time it would take to accompany my home with this lot? I'm....a bit more banged up than I realised. [turns to Bernot] There'd be stew in it for you, I'm sure."
Hearing Soros' assessment of healing options, Thout chimes in, "Back in Copperhead, we had some alchemists who would make healing salves. Good stuff, they were. Not too expensive for what they did, but they weren't free either. They worked best when used on fresh wounds, so I don't know how much help they would be for you now." He gives D'ogryn a glance. He pauses for a moment, "Of course, they could be useful sooner than I would like..."
After D'ogryn responds, he shifts in his chair, leaning forward, "I'd say to see what help your friend can provide. Then get some salve." He reaches back, patting a leather bag hooked on the back of the chair, "Walthas gave me this battle kit, too. It will help in a pinch, but it, too, is best when the wounds are fresh."
"With regard to the politics, haven't been here long. I'll let the rest of you handle that. Me, I believe in time and the salves."
When D'ogryn mention his debt to Irwish, he nods his head, but scowls slightly, "We need everyone in this group to give us the best odds. Obviously, they are very capable when working together." "Do you think you can get away to finish the goblins? Irwish understands how important this is, right?"
Looking from one of his companions to the other, the olf sighs a little. "As the man pointed out, not everyone is meant to do this sort of work. The cook here has built quite a reputation for taking his responsibilities seriously. Maybe he believes he serves his community better serving soup and ale than eliminating threats to his neighbors? Here, the purpose is obvious, the choices simple, and the risks far easier to mitigate. The majority of people serve their communities in such fashion. There is no shame nor harm in doing so. But I think I saw a spark in this young man as he climbed the algae-slicked wall, even as he cut the enemy's arrow from his own torso. I think he is realizing that he is capable of serving his community in far more dangerous ways. I just don't know if he sees it as his responsibility to serve in a way he can that others can't. That's his call. The cook is free to be just a cook, if he chooses."
D'ogryn looks from the half dwarf to the elf and back again. His expression is one of patiently waiting for the conversation to end.
Easy...There is enough heat in the rumor mills already. We do not need to add more fuel to that fire. He gives a brief pause to let that sink in. He lowers his voice as he looks around for anyone that may be paying attention to his words.
It is obvious that nether one of you understand that I am not from here. Irwin took me in at great risk to his livelihood. The plague has a way of keeping those you do not know at distance and anyone that aids outsiders are viewed with suspicion. He took a chance on a scrawny kid that he did not know. He showed compassion when it could have been the end of him and his business. In time the folks here came to accept me and I have worked hard to earn what is mine. I have come to accept this town with all its quirks as my new home and will defend my home if the need should arise but Irwin will always come first. Always.
He takes another look around...
I will talk with Irwin to see if he is need of me. If not I will help you with the house. I do not see much of a problem but will not know until I talk with him. I also need to check in on Nesh. I may be able to get some more details from him on the house. When are you wanting to leave?
Thout lowers his voice as well, "I had no idea that you had adopted this town. You seem to fit in fine. I don't know who Nesh is, but we should go as soon as you and Naia are healed. We don't want to go while you two are still hurt, but every day we wait gives the goblins more time to make traps." He looks at Rabalar, "You seem to know the goblins well. You know this is true. Let's get everyone back 100%, then we should go right away."
The Merry Mermaid
As D'ogryn, Thout, Rabalar, and Soros sit at the table Rose and Enna come up with their platters from different directions.
Rose seems genuinely happy to see that D'ogryn is well. D'ogryn it is so good to see you have returned safely. Bren had told me you and your friends had returned last night but a few of you were hurt. Looking at you she realizes you were one of the ones hurt. Oh my goodness...what happened to you!? D'oryn tries to explain but after being hugged several times and checked several times by pregnant women nearly in tears he just tried to console her... Soros seemed amused and Thout and Rabalar were trying to figure out how D'ogryn managed to do get all of the attention. Enna the younger barmaid comes up along Soros. Rose, are these the handsome men that saved us from those goblins on the Old East Road? I had heard D'ogryn was amongst them but I didn't know that they were all so handsome. Her hand seems to rest on Soros's shoulder for a bit. A fisherman at the table next to the party overhears. [b]Well blessed be! It is good to hear that you cleared road! Here let me by you each a drink! He puts a few coins in Enna's hand. Each of the other five men also put some coin in her hand as well. Go get them some cider and some food from the kitchen lass. You can flirt with them latter! He smiles and Enna blushes at the old regular to the Merry Maid and turns to get the young party their drinks and food. Rose leans over to the group... Watch that one...you will be married and have three little ones running around if you are not careful. She gives Soros a wink and turns and walks off getting back to the other patrons.
Berian's
Berian considers Naia's offer for a moment and sees Bernot giving him a nod.
Mistress Naia I offered to cover the remaining balance with the additional trail rations. Bernot cleared his throat....Father you are going to give her the older rations they worth at most half. I think we can offer to discount the price of a spiked gauntlet. I realize we don't have any stock and will need to seek out a smith who has one on hand.
Berian gives his son a stare only a da and merchant could give to his son. Naia had seen that stare on numerous occasions from her own da. She attempted to keep a straight face as the two bantered back and forth on the subject. Finally Berian submitted to Bernot's diplomatic efforts. Stubborn boy! Berian laughs... Well my son who works for me has managed to negotiate on your behalf...If this keeps up Bernot we will go out of business! Bernot smiled and gave Naia little smile...Naia thought as she watched the interaction between the two...I would imagine Bernot gets the better of his father often...he seems much more skilled in the arts of negotiation and seems to have a quick wit about himself.
Berian seems to conclude the conversation. Naia, I will seek out a smith who has one on hand. I might be lucky and a merchant has one that I can barter for. I will only charge 15% of my cost...I need to make some coin on the transaction mind you!
Berian turns to Bernot. And since you are in a rush to give our entire store away to mistress Temlow you can assist her with carrying her goods back to her home! He turns and walks to the back room and Bernot starts to gather the pile of goods and smiles. He really is not that crotchety he just doesn't like to be on the bottom end of a sale. He smiles again as he makes his way to the door.
As they make their way out the store the salty air blows by them and Naia's hair swirls and lifts in the wind. She smells rain coming....and soon.
Edan
Edan arises from his slumber to the smell of cooked meats and spices...some sort of stew he guessed. The cushioned chair was comfortable but old...it smelled of many seasons at the fireplace. No one was in the house at the moment. It was quiet and still and a small blanket of wool was laid over him covering all but his feet which were missing his boots. He didn't have a home like Naia's but he understood the safety and comfort of a place were friends and family could be easily found. He thought back to his childhood memories of his village and his family.
D'ogryn accepts the hugs and tries to shrug it off as nothing.
Thank you, we are all fine...nothing more or less than cutting yourself in the kitchen. Seriously we are fine.
As the other patrons toss in coin, he tries to stop them.
Gentlemen that is not necessary, we were just doing the job we were hired for.
Seeing more coin being tossed around, D'ogryn resigns himself to the ineffable. He can see that the coins being offered would go a long way with Irwin and it would not cost him much. In the end he knew that the Merry Mermaid would come out on top.
Thank you that is most kind of you.
As Enna runs off...
Only three...right
The young man looks at Throut and in calm, low and serious voice. He lets his eyes wonder around as he stretches out his shoulder...to make sure no one was paying them unneeded attention.
When we are ready, we should make a visit to the goblin camp first...to clean up anything that was left behind.
The olve looks to the half-dwurf and lets out an exaggerated sigh. "You saw the same thing I did, right? The women all went to the two humans, ignoring us! I guess it does matter who you are more than what you do . . .." The tone and expression combine to ensure only a true fool could take the complaint seriously. "We may not get to take the girl home, but it seems they are going to wine and dine us."
He gets comfortable, and prepares to see how this plays out.
"I was thinking the same thing, that we should check through that glen to see if there are any more holed up in it. But you have an awful lot of healing to do before you should go back out. There seems to be no shortage of potential nurses, ready to help you along the path . . .."
He looks at Thout, and glances around the room. "I have no idea who will or won't want to go with us when we choose to head back out. Hopefully your fans will be smart enough to stay home. They would just make things far more complicated, I'm afraid."
D'ogryn 4 damage/10 max (Grazed)
Naia 2 damage/11 max (Grazed)
Rabalar 1 damage/11 max (Healthy)
Edan 10/10 max
Soros 7/7 max
Zove 11/11 max
Okware 1 damage/18 max (1 con damage/13 max) (Healthy)
D'ogryn smiles slightly at Rabalar's comment.
As I said, most outsiders do not get a warm welcome..Soros has family here.
As he sees Rose coming back out...
Hey Rose, is Irwin free to talk?
The Merry Mermaid
Enna goes to the back of the kitchen and with the noise in the tavern Rose didn't catch the call from D'ogryn as she made her way to the bar and then the kitchen.
A moment latter Enna makes her way to back to the table after dropping off several drinks to other tables. She puts down four mugs of cider and a plate of bread, butter, and a mild cheese. She also puts down a bowl of assorted nuts. I have four plates of food ordered for ya and will bring them out for ya when they are ready. If you need something stronger than the cider let me know. She gives Rabalar a wink. We don't get many elves in the Merry Mermaid...Especially handsome ones so if you need anything else you just let me know. She gives Soros a wink as well and a soft, slow pat on the shoulder. You need anything else you brave soul? Soros looks surprised for a brief moment and then gives her a nod and seems to appreciate the gester but seems ill prepared for the attention from Enna.
Rose comes out the back of the bar with Irwish and D'ogryn can see he is wiping his hands on his apron. Irwish gives D'ogryn a quick wave to him and he hurries Gregory along from the back and he comes out with a platter of roasted vegatables, a roast chicken, and a few choice pieces of roast pig. The young Gregory comes to the table and puts the platter down in front of them. Gregory smiles at each of the members at the table...a young boy and he seems to stare at D'ogryn for a few moments. Hello! he stares at the four for a moment...My da an ma say that they heard you found those goblins! My da said you scared dim all off! He seems to stand there for a few moments and then Irwish makes his way to the table.
He puts his hand out to D'ogryn to shake it and gives him a big satisfied grin. Well you made it back in one piece. He realizes that D'ogryn was wounded and seems to frown. Looks at the other three and realizes D'ogryn is pretty banged up compared to the rest of the table My boy you need to get some rest if those are going to heal. I am glad to see you made it back. All of you for that matter! Make sure you get your fill of food; it seems you have a good bit of food and drink on tab for the day. Enjoy it as it is much deserved! He looks at Gregory, smiles and quickly gets him back to the kitchen. Back to work lad make sure you get the rest of the food out to our patrons. The young lad shrugs and smiles accepting his directions and heads off to the kitchen. Irwish looks at D'ogryn. Good lad he is and I am glad you recruited him...looks like we will need him while you are doing the town's service.
Berian's
Naia smells the breeze, salty and fresh. A thought occurs to her.
"Wait here a moment Bernot."
Naia rushes back inside to find Berian clearing away the assembled items he had on offer for her.
"Master Berian - you have indeed been more than fair. And I do thank you - I think you know we go to wrest the goblins from their redoubt, and thus your good sale will pay double dividend." Naia pauses to let the man bluster a reply, then cuts him short by proffering her coin pouch.
"I have a last request, and this one will pay full price, not wholesale. Paper, bound if you have it, and charcoal to scratch with. I have...8 gold and 3 silver. How much would that be?"
Berian's
Berian huffs...Bound will be to expensive and considering what you get yourself into it would not serve you well. He guides her to some shelves full of all kinds of books and writing material. The selection is not big but not small. He pulls out a Map Case, a smaller one and an old one at that but in good condition. He puts it in your arms. He then bends over and moves some stuff around on a shelf and pulls out a small leather bag and opens it. There are several carved sticks of charcoal (2) and chalk (white) (2). He closes the old bag and hands it to you. He then looks around for a bit and finally finds what he is looking for. It is a stack of old parchment (4 pieces). He puts it in your arms.
Mind you this is all used that I bought off a would-be lazy writer...of some sort. It is yours for 2gp's and that is a very very fair offer. He raises one eyebrow at you and smiles..a gentle smile but one that seems to say I will not budge on that price...in the least.
In spite of Rabalar's obviously jesting mood, Thout gives a look of disappointment mixed with resignation as he leans back in his chair, "Ehh. It's not too bad for the most part. I've grown accustomed to only being half accepted no matter where I am." He gives a pause, "Except with family."
Hearing D'ogryn and Rabalar talk of the glen, Thout rubs his beard with his off hand, "Going to the glen is fine as long as it doesn't delay us. The more time they have to prepare, the worse it is for us. I'm impressed with what you have already accomplished; we don't want to give them the edge. Hopefully the full group will come, but unless we are so few that it would be unwise to proceed, we need to press on."
EDIT:
When Irwish and Gregory makes their comments, Thout speaks up, "You have these two and their friends to thank for all that. I have just joined up with them to help with cleanup."
Berian's
Naia smiles and counts out 5 coins - 2 gold, and 3 silver.
"There. Very fair. Thanking you Master Berian. I wlll send Bernot back with a full belly."
With that she returns outside, fully loaded now and walks home with Bernot.
Hopefully Edan is well rested!
"So, Bernot...I must thank you for your aid. Now tell me..." she speaks companionably asking after his family and the business generally as they head to her home.
"Well, now, THAT's more like it. Thank you, Enna. I think I'll do that. Let you know." He winks back as he picks up a mug of cider. He makes pleased noises as he sips the sweet alcohol.
---
Looking down to the young boy, the olve replies "Well, we 'chased off' the ones we found. That's normally how it goes. Thank you for your help here in the kitchen."
---
Just after Irwish heads back to the kitchen, Rabalar takes another jab at D'Ogryn. "How about that? Others seem to think you might better serve your community than by working in the kitchen. I wonder how they got that idea?"
---
Rabalar watches Enna as she floats about the room, doing her job. He flashes her a smile if he notices her looking, but actively delays asking for anything, trying to force himself to let her work, though he does seem to turn to her for more cider. He is trying not to over-imbibe.
Thout shifts in his chair and angles himself for better access to the food and drink. He grabs the cider and digs into the chicken and pig. "First priority is to get everyone healed," he says while conspicuously eyeing D'ogryn. "You need to get full rest while we see about any... um... uh... help. Letting others take care of you is your first priority. Good news is that it seems your assistant can cover you for a few days while you heal and we conclude the, ahhh, business."
He takes a few more bites, then begins to chew more slowly before he swallows, "If anyone knows the best way to get healed up, it would have to be my uncle. While you pursue other channels, I'll check with him." "Doesn't look like we'll be leaving today."
---
When Rabalar makes his comment about D'ogryn's service to the community, he nods his head, but doesn't stop eating...
Watching Gregory head back to the kitchen, D'ogryn sigh slightly. The boy was a fine young man that just need some guidance. He is so fixated on the boy that he does not hear what the others are saying.
Uncle...that would be helpful...excuse me. I am going to take care of few things and then I am off to bed. I got a breakfast shift in the morning so if you need me I will be here. With that D'ogryn stand and follows after Gregory back into the kitchen.
As the door closes behind him, he watches as Gregory loads up a serving tray. Watching and finding it hard not to help him but knowing that it is best if he allows the boy to see if he made a mistake or not. Gregory rearranges the tray to better balance all the dishes and then out the kitchen door he went. The young man had made his mind up just a few moments ago and he was very certain that he was doing the correct thing. He pulled down his kitchen satchel and opened it up. Inside was a set of knives wrap in a old oil cloth and a well used book.
As he longingly looked at the items, Gregory had finished serving the food and had returned.
Hey Gregory could you come over here, I have something I want to talk to you about. The boy wasted little time in joining D'ogryn at the prep table. What is up D...What do you need?
Knowing that it would be too hard for the young boy to understand what is going on, D'ogryn decides on a different angel
as you know...I and some others have been helping the council with some things...Goblins and such. When I do those things I need some help from you. I need you to help keep things running smooth in the kitchen. Listen to Irwin and Rose. Keep the scraps going out to the pig farmers and do not let the merchants sell you bad produce. Most important thing I need from you is to keep my knives sharp. After each use run the blade on the steel like I showed you...away from you...Once a week take the blade to the sharpening stone...Make sure to soak the stone first...it does help. Can you do that for me?
He looks at Gregory with respect knowing full well the boy would do that and more.
If you should need a recipe, my mother's book will be with my knives. Take care with it.
D'ogryn turns as Gregory looks at the knives.
I will be back as soon as I can
I am just a cook after all
Seeing Irwin and Rose together and away from prying eyes gave D'ogryn his chance to talk to them. He slowly walked up to the couple that has given him so much, unsure what he would say.
Irwin..Rose... The thing with the Goblins has not been finished yet. We did what was asked of us but there is more to it than just a simple raiding party. It sounds like the council is going to want us to see this through to the end. Not just running the Goblins out of the area. I am here for you two no matter what you need and if you need me more than that...just let me know. I owe you so much and I will not take advantage of that trust you have shown me. I just do not know how long this will take. I have entrusted Gregory with the upkeep of my knives and my mom's book is back there as well. All my recipes are there for you to use if you need them. The ones with legible handwriting are my Grandmothers and the really nice writing is my mom's recipes...The ones you can not read are mine of course.
He hesitates for a for moments
I will be back as soon as I can. I promise.
Thout finishes eating. He fishes out some coin to pay for his meal, "I appreciate the offer to pay for my meal, but I have not done anything to deserve it. These two sure have, but me? No." He places the money on the table. With a great sigh, he leans back in his chair, almost to the point of tipping over. "Ahh, now that was fine eating. D'ogryn, was that one of your recipes? It was mighty good either way." He wipes the food from the whiskers around his mouth, "I was hoping to spend the rest of the day with you, but it seems I can be more productive elsewhere." He rights himself and the chair, then stands. He peers closely at D'ogryn. "Hmm, strike that. Let me take a look at you." He walks over to D'ogryn, checks his wounds for a moment, and says, "You know, if you are willing to stay off your feet for a day and let me care for your wounds, I think we could get you back to normal. This time tomorrow, we could be ready to go to the house, the glen, wherever we need to finish this up. What do you say?"
D'ogryn listens intently to thout.
not one of mine but yes it is still good cooking.
When Thout tries to examine the wound, the cook shows him just enough of the wound so that he can examine it.
I will be fine I have a few things to take care that I hope will get me back on my feet.
When Thout again urges them to go to the house right away. His voice is calm and neutral.
We need time to heal...naturally or by magic...it takes time and we will just have to wait till it is done. I will not be going to the house unless I am ready to go. Now if you will excuse me....
"My point, exactly!" Thout says with a little exasperation. Very deliberately, he leans forward, putting both hands on the table and lowers his voice, "With what is in there," he points to the battle kit hanging on his chair, "and what is in here," he points to his head, "I can get you fully healed up by tomorrow. Edan started the process; I can finish it. To be clear, in no way am I encouraging going out while either you or Naia are hurt. I am just trying to do what I can to get us out there as soon as possible. We may run around looking for other options, come up empty-handed, and be in exactly the same position tomorrow. I say go with the bird in hand."
"You," says Thout, looking directly at D'ogryn, "Get some rest. In this case, doing what's best for you is doing what's best for everyone else." He lets that sink in for a moment. "I am heading back to the Watch. Going to get some advice. Once I have talked to my uncle where should I meet you again?"
Thout's walk lacks spirit, and he kicks at the small rocks on the road, frustrated that the mission will be delayed. "Every day we wait, gives them more time and hurts our chances. But D'ogryn and Naia are just too hurt to leave right away." The frustration boils and he lets out a loud grunt. "I hope Uncle Geolin knows a better way," he mutters to hiself.
Once at the Gaol, he seeks out his uncle. In the privacy of his office, he gives a short report, "D'ogryn and Naia have significant wounds. D'ogryn refuses to let me help care for his wounds, so it will be at least 2 days before we can leave, given their current conditions. Do you know know any... options... for speeding their recovery? Something that may help us, even in the event we encounter the goblins again?"
Bernot and Naia
As Bernot walked with Naia he made conversation in regards to their family. Bernot seemed to admire the Temlows and the other families of Saltmarsh. He was well intentioned and after a moment he cleared his throat. Naia, there are those in the town speaking ill of you and your new found friend. I am not sure where the rumors started but my father is being overly cautious as he doesn't want to get on the wrong side of the town guild masters. Most are only interested in protecting their coins...which is why I am not sure there is an issue with protecting our roads. My father is unsure which way the wind is blowing so he has decided to stay out of it and not take sides. Bernot looks frustrated as he talks. I can't say who would be behind it and my preference is to stay out of other people's business...but I thought you and your family deserved to know. He readjusts the gear and quickly catches back up with Naia's long strides.
As Naia and Bernot make their way southward Naia sees the three homes along the shoreline of the Temlows. She can see Edan making his way up the path to the main road. She can see the boats are gone and her family must be out in the waters hunting.
D'ogryn being much younger than the half dwarf returns the stare with equal intensity. His voice is calm.
Good Thout...I thank you for your concern but I will be fine and the sooner I get going on what I need the sooner I will be ready..
the longer you debate and recommend how I should do this or that or offer this bit of advice or push for us to move faster so that we can get to the house sooner is in of itself wasting time that I could be using to do what must be done. Please stop talking and allow me to do the things I know how to do in order to get the things I need. If tomorrow comes and I am not ready, we as a group will deal with that situation then. The Goblins already know we are here and if the glen was any indication of how prepared they are...then it does not matter if we are there today or tomorrow...THEY ARE F##%ING PREPARED!!! Now if you will kindly excuse me....I have things to do.
With that the young man leaves the table and does not respond to any further conversations.
Soros
As D'ogryn gets up and he listens to Thout and Rabalar converse about getting back to the house he looks at Enna and then back to Rabalar. Did she flirt with me? And why did she flirt with Rabalar if that is the case? Women are a frustrating lot...easier to study a book and understand its hidden meaning then it is to understand the workings of a women!
He snaps back to the present conversation and sees Rabalar's eyes following Enna and smirks.
Dear Thout, I would think we will need Rabalar to take us back to the death trap that was the Glen. We will need to find the remaining goblin trails, or tracks or whatever you call them, and actually see if they did in fact head to the house. From what I could see they broke off in every direction once their leader and a good number of them fell to our overwhelming show of force. He smiles with the last comment as it was more sarcastic than truthful. I would think Geolin would want us to actually confirm that was the case but I might be wrong. I will leave that up to Rabalar and yourself. The house does concern me though. There many a wicked rumor and tale about that place and from what Nesh told D'ogryn some of those tales might be true or have a hint of truth in them. He lowers his voice a bit. I fear that there might be more truth to the rumors if Nesh's story is to be taken at face value. Mind you it might be the raving of a drunk but there has to be a bit of honesty or some reality to it...at the very least something scared the wits out the old fool.
Merry Mermaid
Irwish and Yvette
As D'ogryn finishes with Gregory Irwish walks up to D'ogryn and tugs on his shoulder as they are still halfway behind the bar and not all the way in the kitchen. D'ogryn follow him and inside the kitchen is Irwish's wife Yvette as well as Patty and Mira. They see D'ogryn and the two older women (Patty and Mira) stop what they are doing in the kitchen and come over and give him hugs and ask him a flurry of questions which he tries to answer just as rapidly. As D'ogryn started working at the Maid these two kitchen hands adopted the young man. It was Mira a mother of six herself that helped D'ogryn with his night sweats and first saw the scars. Both are kind elderly women and much like family to him. Yvette, Irwish's wife, was a harder sell, she has hard time trusting strangers and she was the last of the family and crew of the Merry Maid to take a liking to D'ogryn. Never the less D'ogryn's efforts paid off and even the hardened Yvette accepted him into the Merry Mermaid family.
Once he gets Patty and Mira back to the tables in the kitchen Yvette makes her way up with Irwish.
Iriwsh looks to see if anyone is coming into the kitchen. It is good to see you back. We had heard the worst that you and Naia as a few more were grievously wounded. It wasn't until latter this morning that I we heard from Rose that all you returned and walked back on your own accord. It did our hearts well to hear that! I heard you talk to Gregory, my boy you know if this is your duty you will always have a place here. Just come back safe and bring your friends home. He looks back at the door. Be careful. There are people that came in here and a few other places asking questions about you and your friends. I don't know who they are. And I don't know their business but they took an interest in you shortly after you left. These nasty rumors running around about you and your friends were probably started by these little shads. He seems to drop the subject when Enna and Rose both walk back in and Yvette pushes them back out to the bar after giving the young man a long hug and a quick "Be as careful as you can!".
Thout listens closely to Soros' words. "What you say seems reasonable. I don't know much about the house, only what I heard on the road here. I am curious about it, but the goblins are first priority. Let's see if we can pick up their trail at the glen and follow them from there. If we can't, we just go to the house and see if they are using it as a base. Need to be careful either way; goblins and traps go hand in hand. We should go as soon as we are healed." He eyes the retreating D'ogryn.
He pushes himself away from the table, "Unless there is something else, I'm off to talk to my uncle." He looks back and forth at Soros and Rabalar, "Where and when should we meet next? The Temlow's?"
The olf shrugs. "Seems the best spot we've got, but it also seems awfully rude to impose on them like that. Maybe we should meet here instead? Say, after supper? Or for supper?" He glances around the room, looking at the people again. "Might be too crowded, though. You have a better idea, Soros? You're the local, after all!"
Naia scowls before she can stop herself.
"What are they saying? That we are meddling, and I'm encouraging outsiders to get involved? Was it Direcroft? I'll...." she blurts out before composing herself, as they areon the road, in the public sphere.
"Gah. Sorry Bern. Sure, folks are uppity. There's plague and fear and mistrust. Piss on the lot of them. Your da is right to play it safe - it takes only a wrong move or move wrongly interpreted and a business or livelihood goes under."
Naia walks on moodily, thinking.
"Tell you what Bern - you hear anything actual or distinct, find me and tell me, or tell my Gran, or Geolin or Will Stoutly. Someone. I can feel something in my bones ain't right, something amiss. And it won't stop unless we stand up and stop it."
The girl looks up, seeing they have arrived.
"Well, we're here." she adds brightly. "Let's get some grub. And thanks for carrying my gear!" Naia sends Bern on and follows him inside.
Naia/Edan
The Merry Mermaid
Soros seems to think on that for a brief moment. Tapping his right hand on his chin as if in deep thought. I would think this would be the best place for all of us to meet up and if I recall we had planned to all meet here once our business was concluded for the day. I am sure Naia and Edan believe that to be so.
As he finishes his comment Enna comes by with a pitcher of cider and checks to see if she can fill your cups. Ye handsome fellows still have a bit of coin on tab for a good refill each I would gather. Can I top this mugs off? She gives Rabalar a quick wink and then taps Soros on the near shoulder. Are you home for good Soros? Or is this just a stop before you wander off again on another venture with your friends here?
Perception rolls
Rabalar
Soros
Thout
The road
Naia sees Edan coming toward them, and stops, juggling the various papers, ropes, and leathers that Bernot isn't carrying.
"Edan! I'm glad to see you rested. Thank you. I would not be standing here before you if you hadn't...taken the time to make sure I would stand...again."
Naia introduces Bernot.
"This is Edan - one of the caravan guards who so meddlingly meddled in the saving of the town from future meddling by goblins. Right Edan?" Naia finishes with a smirk.
"Seems soem of the town worthies aren't impressed by us attempting to ascertain whether or not the town is in danger. They'd rather sit about and drink halfling's piss."
The girl obviously is full of herself in the daylight, and realising it, frowns, biting her lip.
"Sorry to you both, I guess I'm upset is all. Some thanks. Anyway E, tell the others I'll be at the 'Mermaid soon as Bernot and I have had lunch..."
Bernot, Naia, and Edan
Bernot seems to listen and lets Naia vent. He seems to understand her position and lets her get all of it out of her system. As the two approach the Touv walking towards them he realizes that Naia recognizes them. Bernot chimes in as Naia finishes talking to Edan.
Well met Edan; it is a pleasure to meet you. I would shake your hand but they are full. He smiles and looks down at the load he is carrying. Studded leather armor, a map case, and a wrapped up package that looks like rations.
Bernot looks at Edan and Naia and waits for them to conclude their conversation.
Thout nudges Rabalar, gestures toward the door, and says in a low voice "See that guy?" He looks at Soros, "How about you?" He looks back over where the man was. "That was just kind of odd. Looks like you and your group are more famous than I was thinking."
---
Hearing Soros remind him that Naia and Edan are coming to the Merry Mermaid, Thout sits back down. "Best to wait for the others. I'll talk with my uncle once we're done." He scratches at a spot on the table's surface and surveys the room with a bored look, "So, Rabalar, you've been with the caravan guards? Hear anything about that house? On my way down, I heard that it was haunted by evil spirits! Some even said that it's all related to the plague, but that doesn't make sense to me."
"Nah. I didn't hear anything about the house until we got to town. All sounded like a typical local ghost story, but I guess the goblins could have given those stories a bit of bite." He plays with his mug for a moment.
"Waiting here makes sense, I guess, but we've got to find something to do besides drink or we might as well not be here when the others arrive." He looks around the room, trying to find some inspiration from what the locals are doing.
Temlows
Naia heads to the kitchen and excuses herself after relieving Bernot of her purchases, and takes her gear to her room, shoving most of it unceremoniously in a heap on her cot, and half stuffing the leathers into her trunk.
Rushing back she fixes Bernot some soup and hunks of bread, and sets to with gusto.
"Mmmnmhhh. Well, there you go Bernot. As promised."
When they head back to town Naia begs off, not wanting to become too familiar, nor take Bernot away from work and to an alehouse - his father would not be happy, nor possibly, approve.
"Thanks again for all your help Bernot - both with the deal and the carrying. And rrmember, if you hear anything more meaningful than slander or baseless rumor, let me or someone close to me know!!!"
The 'Mermaid
"When who arrives?" Naia asks with a smile. "Rab, Soro and Thout. There's a limerick that begins like that. Sorry Soros, I won't call you that again! What are we drinking?"
"Edan here? I passed him on my way back home..."