Ragnar mightily cuts down his opponent as well.
Intimidated by the party’s prowess, the rest of the goblinoid creatures shrink back and retreat into their caves. Returning to the helm, Ragnar resumes directing the small barge and its precious cargo down the Tuunma river. Roughly half a day later, the river opens up to the Sea of Eels and it seems the worst is behind the party. A full day of travel passes without incident.
The day after, it becomes clear that the danger isn’t quite passed.
The light of dawn reveals a ship some six hundred feet to port and fast approaching. Its banner bears a single upthrust spear, and its golden sails sparkle in the morning sun.
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In an uncharacteristically excited tone Ragnar loudly states,
"We shouldn't be rude and make them come to us! Let us greet them in an Ulfen fashion! Haha!"
Ragnar then turns the boat port side, exclaims "Full Sail lads!" and heads directly for the oncoming ship, preparing to ram or otherwise disable.
The crew on the pursuing ship scrambles as their prey turns to charge them!
The two vessels collide with a crunch and a few men are thrown overboard. Those that manage to stand their ground leap across onto the party’s barge without weapons but wearing the scarred knuckles of experienced brawlers. They are led by an athletic women wielding an elegant curved blade. ”For the glory of Lingshen!” she screams.
Kalendir’s arrow misses the woman. Elen joins his companion’s attack, leveling his pistol and squeezing the trigger.
One of the soldiers grunts in pain as the bullet clips his shoulder wounding him badly. All three brawlers advance on the party.
The woman gestures and chants sending a volley of arcane missiles at the gunslinger.
Though the rest of his companions struggle to land a blow against their attackers, with a bestial growl Ragnar cuts a bloody gasp down one man's side. Overcome by his injuries, he crumbles to the ground.
Despite the loss of a comrade, the brawlers shift position and continue the fight.
The woman repeats her spell, sending another bolt of force at Elen.
Though Tristan and Ragnar struggle against their opponents, the ranged Pathfinders have more luck, wounding the spellcasting woman badly. She hisses in pain and stares down the archer.
Brawlers continue to brawl, laying into their opponents with mighty fists.
The woman repeats her spell again, this time pelting the elf.
Kalendir's next arrow catches the woman in the throat. With a moan, she crashes to the deck of her own ship.
With one brutal swipe, Tristan cuts the man down.
The party quickly overwhelms the last guard and frees themselves from the boarding vessel.
After defeating their pursuers and breaking free, the party is free to continue across the Sea of Eels in peace. A few days later, they finally reach Shokuro, where their Society contact is waiting for them. Turning over the Braid along with the special incense, the party is congratulated on a job well done and given leave to enjoy the countryside.