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Dalron starts jogging after Brunner
"Sorry Brunner, I failed you. I should have spotted the goblins sooner and never let that one get so close to you."
"Barnabus do you think that the goblin spell caster had some form of protection from arrows? They seem to just curve away from him? And if that spell caster is still alive, give him a hard kick from me would ya!"
Barnabus checks over the fallen goblin, you can tell he is still breathing but you can’t tell how close he is to death.
By this point the two remaining archers have made it deeper into the woods fully out of sight. The wolf turned towards the party seeing what the noise was and took off.
Scarlet looks at his slight wound and shrugs it off. "Just a minor scratch." He then heads to where the goblin leader fell along with Barnabus and starts checking the still breathing goblins body for loot.
"This one is still breathing, don't know if he will wake up again."
Barnabus helps Scarlet search the goblin spellcaster, using Detect Magic to see if he is carrying anything useful.
Dalron looks over two of the goblins and he finds 2 leather armor, 2 short bows, 16 arrows eats. All small sized.
Barnabus and Scarlet look over the goblin that was once riding the wolf. On him you find a wand, hide armor, 110 gold, a talisman depecting a crude image of a three eyes jackal, and a vile of liquid.
;
Scarlet looks over the fine and whistles. "This goblin had 110 gold coins on him. A lot of money. They must of robbed someone recently. Also a wand and a potion if one of you wants to take a look at them."
Lanliss doesn't offer an opinion on whether or not to keep the goblin alive, but he won't object to saving its life.
When the goblin is secured, he channels another burst of positive energy to heal those injured.
Lanliss takes hold of his holy symbol, mutters a word of prayer to Desna, and pulse of magical aura burst outwards from him. An almost invisible wave of translucent colorful butterflies fly crashing out from him.
The goblin you have secured begins to stir. Groggily, it mumbles incoherently as it unsuccessfully tries to sit up.
After a short bit it lays back down no longer struggling.
Brunner is feeling significantly better, but not fully up to his full potential. Where the wolf bit his let he can still feel a sting of pain and causes him a minor limp as he walks. But, nothing long lasting.
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Dalron walks over to the goblin and gives him a kick.
O agaan or heruukaar. Ar o koc, daan mech o. O druuc'd druun dar daan daach o, daan mech o. Tuun ar o dac duun kegaan, druuc'd ghalaan an ghal.
"Scarlet, let me take a look at some of those arrows."
After picking out 6 arrows he puts them in his quiver and gives a wink.
"No, use in spending good coin if you can use theirs."
Looking at the wand and vial, Dalron turns to the goblin.
Dar agaan daaraan, daach an khruul
"Give me a moment with those items and I'll see what I can make of them."
Barnabus focuses his Detect Magic spell on the two items to try to learn more.
Listening to the goblin, Scarlet picks up on his wording.
"Dar druun o ghaac dar o duuc'd dhach?"
As Lanliss channels Brunner's leg begins to feel better, he nods to the Elf, "Cheers laddie!"
The elf's face lights up with a smile, genuinely appreciative of the gratitude.
As he watches the interrogation, he quietly says to anyone listening, "This is why I wasn't thrilled with the idea of healing the goblin. Now we have to choose to either kill him in cold blood or let him go to fight again, someday."
He shrugs and goes off to check on the wagon crew, his absence indicating that he wants no part in that decision.
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"Brunner, Brunner, Brunner you know quite well if it was just a live rat in a trap, you would have no issues in killing it. The only difference between rats and goblins is that rats are smarter and goblins breed faster."
Dalron keeps an eye on the goblin to see if he understands common.
"Don't think about it too much Lanliss, I think we should haul it back to town and let the towns folk figure out what to do with it. And I think we better get going before the two that got away bring back friends and I have to try out those goblin arrows."
Evia blinks, lost in the revery of her music, and then the combat is over. She makes her way over to the others and looks down at the goblin and straps her bow back around her shoulders.
"Well done, everyone! Yes, I agree, though I think consigning him to the town guard is a death sentence in and of itself."
She waits until the goblin is tied up and loaded into the carriage and then will climb in as well.
Barnabus is able to figure out what these items are. The potion is a potion of Expeditious Retreat, and the wand is a wand of Cure Light Wounds with 11 charges remaining on it.
The goblin struggles against his restraints as he responds to Scarlet.
Dalron does not think the goblin can understand what they are saying in common.
As Lanliss returns to the wagon you find that Sten has taken one of her crate lids and has turned it into a makeshift cover to shield herself and her injured guards from possible arrow fire.
Glad to see it is Lanliss approaching and not one of the goblins, she says; “Things are wild on these roads now. If that is the rest of them, lets get loaded up and make it back to town double time. I do not want to be caught in another ambush like that.” About to climb back into the drivers seat, Sten pauses and turns back; “Is everyone ok? I couldn’t see the fight and all, but I hope all are well enough.”
As the group comes to get back into the cart Sten eyes the newest addition to the party. “I know you’re all very capable and all... But, are you sure you want to bring that thing along? I mean no disrespect, but if things are this bad out here I don’t know if they will want one out and about in their homes.
A short bit of times passes uneventfully. As you continue along the road, the scenery slowly changes. Thick forest gives way to farmland, and soon the hamlet of Barrow’s Edge comes into view. “Welcome to Barrow’s Edge! I suggest you head for Mallie’s Inn. If she isn’t behind the call for help, she’ll know who is. I will take you there before I head back to my shop.”
As you first see Barrow’s Edge it looks like most any other small hamlet you have past through on your travels. The only thing that stands out is an unfinished piecemealed together beginnings of a town wall.
As you enter the hamlet you pass by many buildings, some with signs and some without.
A sign above one door reads “Sten Goodseller’s Emporium.” Little of the original cabin can still be seen, as numerous additions jut off all sides and up one level. What had been a front porch now serves as a glassed-in display area. Equipment of all descriptions fill the many shelves and cases visible through the display windows, including lanterns, torches, bolts of cotton, bags of seed, and much more.
As you pass this building by, Sten pipes up; “There she is... isn’t she a beaut? That’s my shop. Feel free to stop by if you are in need of any supplies.”
The next building you come across is a large building with an unpainted exterior that clearly shows it to be a recent construction. Outside, the carved wooden symbols of many gods await their first coat of paint and identifies it as a place of worship.
You can’t help but notice a small, one-story building. Painted bright purple with gold stars spangling the exterior, this shop demands to be looked at. A sign above the door reads “Mysticality.” Heavy purple drapes cover the windows.
Finally you come to your destination. This large two story building has a balcony all around the top level. Light and sound spills from its windows. A broad sign above the door reads; “Barrow’s Edge Inn-Welcome to All!”
“Well a deal is a deal, and ours is complete. This is where you will want to go first. If you need anything please come by. I am sure we can make some kind of arrangement for all the help you have shown me and my men. I need to get these two men to Listra. See you all later!”
"Evia or Lanliss, I think one of you two should take custody of this healing wand. If I try to use that kind of magic, I'm likely to suffer some unfortunate accident." Barnabus says, offering the healing wand to either the bard or the cleric.
"Brunner, this potion will make you move much faster. It could come in handy the next time we're ambushed by archers from long range." the wizard continues, offering his fellow dwarf the draught of magical liquid.
Lanliss bids Sten farewell, promising to stop by later to replace his cloak. He's good on arrows, he comments, for some reason. He asks about the "Mysticality" shop. "Is that your local fortune teller?"
Lanliss indicates that Evia should take the wand, since he has more healing options than she does.
After Barnabus offers Brunner the potion of expeditious retreat, he explains to Brunner, "It's because your legs are rather short. Sometimes you'll need to run faster!" He smiles at Brunner as he imagines the realization dawning in his mind.
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Dalron falls in step with the wagon when they enter the town.
"Sten, your store is impressive, it looks like you are doing quite well for such a small town."
Dalron gives a questioning look to his party.
"If you don't mind Sten, I would like to use some of my store credit and get Lanliss a good cloak. I get cold just watching him walk around in this weather without one on."
Shaking the rain off his cloak. As they walk further into town and pass the store with heavy purple drapes.
"Look Barnabus, Mysticality, a store for you. You might be able to pick up new bobbles or trinkets for your spells."
Arriving at the inn, Dalron stretches his back.
"Thank you Sten for your generosity with the store credit. By the way who is Listra?"
"If you don't mind Sten, I would like to use some of my store credit and get Lanliss a good cloak. I get cold just watching him walk around in this weather without one on."
"Let's all get matching cloaks!"
Scarlet glances at the town and mentally marks some good places to 'visit' later if the time comes.
While on the trip here, Scarlet does mention the goblin mentioned their leader was a 'She'. "I wonder who this 'She' is."
Scarlet chuckles, "As for cloaks, why not Red." He points to his hair. "We can call us the Scarlet Solvers."
"Oh... Sten. Perhaps you can buy or trade with us the smaller sized armor and weapons we got from the goblins. You know, take them off our hands."
Sten turns towards Lanliss as they are passing by Mysticality; “Oh yes, Thats Thamior’s shop. He has been there for years. Sells all types of potions and scrolls. Dalron is right Barnabus, if you need any supplies or components Thamior is the man to see.”
“Matching cloaks? Now thats an idea. Maybe I can come up with something for you all, well i guess it would depend on how long you will be around town.” At the mention of the name Scarlet Solvers Sten lets out a slight chuckle, but not in disrespect.
Eyeing the gear Scarlet is mentioning; “Why don’t you leave that stuff in the wagon here and I will go over it and see what I can do. When you have a moment swing by my shop and we can work out a deal, and talk about those “Scarlet Solvers” cloaks” At the mention of Scarlet Solves she flashes you a quick wink. “Oh, but don’t leave that thing on the cart, I have no need for it.” Sten says as she nods towards the goblin
"I suppose we should go to see our employer first. So yeah, Miss. Mallie sounds a good choice to start. Maybe she will have a good idea who this 'she' the goblin was afraid of failing."
” Aam huir uv a canty
"I believe he said he is content with his current outer garment, albeit more colorfully." Barnabus supplies helpfully to Lanliss.
"Personally, I could stand to get out of the weather, so I'm for the inn." Barnabus enters the inn.
Lanliss is up for going to the inn. He actively avoids participating in any discussion about the goblin.
What an exceptionally quaint town! Evia thinks.
She remembers the city streets of her upbringing, building stacked atop building, crowding over one another. But here the buildings are further apart. No signs of crowds. No pickpockets. She remembers the little web she'd created in the city, little childhood gangs, friends, acquaintances, enemies. None of that here.
"Yes," she says to Sten, "Thank you for the ride and good luck to you sir."
She hops out of the cart and looks around. "I agree. Let's go discuss with our employer about this job of ours, yeah?"
You open the door and are greeted with welcoming sounds of cheer, laughter, and music. As you walk in the interior of the inn, it feels as warm and hospitable as it seemed from the outside. As you feel the warms you are quickly reminded of how soaked to the bone you truly are.
The warm smells of stew and fresh baked bread waft from the kitchen and causes your stomach to grumble if you have not eaten recently.
Following your ears you spot where the music is coming from. A man standing playing the flute and a woman sitting playing a hand drum. The lively upbeat tune is a familiar one.
As Dalron and Scarlet walk in a portly woman who is rushing around pouring drinks and serving food quickly looks up and gets back to work as she says; “Travelers? Welcome. We’ve food and drink and rooms. All warm and clean.” She turns to a pair of farmhands lounging by the hearth. “Dorf, Dissy move! Give these newcomers space to settle in by the fire.” The two farmers nod amiably and shift to another table.
As the rest of the party comes in she looks up and sees everyone coming in, then she spys the goblin. Walking up to the group she tosses her hand towel over her shoulder. “I am not sure why you brought that thing here with the times being what they are... Sarah, take this group to the private room... Give me a few minutes and I will be with you shortly.”
A petite young woman comes to the group. With a shy smile; “Right this way.” She gestures for the group to follow.
As you follow you notice glances that go from the party, your weapons, and the prisoner you hold. Continuing along, you go down a short hall that goes under the stairs and leads to a sliding door. As she opens the door you find a wide open room with several sitting chairs and arm tables. Sarah gets to work lighting the fire. “Sorry for the chill, we only warm the rooms as they are needed. It won’t take long for the air to warm. What can I get for you while you are waiting for Mallie?”
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"Thank you, my lady. I will have a tall cup of mead, and something warm to eat. If you have some lamb or venison are my favorites. We have been on the road for some time."
Dalron fishes out 3 gold coins and hands them to the girl.
"I told them that I was buying the first round of drinks, and please get them what food the rest of the coin will cover."
Taking off his pack and finding a place a long of the wall to place it with his bow. He then looks for a place to hang his cloak to dry. He find himself a seat and look over to the rest of the party.
Oh it feels good to sit down from that long walk, I am going to sleep well tonight.
"What does everyone want to eat and drink? First round is on me."
Scarlet eyes the people in the tavern, unconsciously marking future marks but shakes his head. "No, not here for that. Might get the employer mad at us if I go around pickpocketing everyone."
He follows the group to the back room and crouches down to the fire starting to warm himself.
"That stew and bread looked good. I'll go with that. Plus some warm mead."
Lanliss enters the room, and starts loosening his armor.
"Wine if you have it, mead if not, please. Sarah, was it?" he asks the shy girl. "A cup of water, also, please."
When the water comes, Lanliss will put the cup to the goblin's lips, allowing it to drink, some.
"Next the elf will be askin' the wee git ta dance." Barnabus says as Lanliss gives the goblin a drink.
"A beer please .... and a shot of Ole' Erebus if you have it." Barnabus tells the bartender.
Evia enters the tavern and pulls back her hood and shakes the rain from her boots. "Ah, 'The Cat and the Sparrows'! I love that song!"
She goes over to where the two are playing and claps along to the beat, then begins to tap her boots. She extends a hand to the others, an impulsive smile crossing her face.
"Let's dance, anyone? I can teach you the moves!"
Once she hears the music Evia becomes captivated by the music. It has been a long and tiring trip filled with rain, goblins, wolves, and injuries. The delightful tunes are a breath of fresh air.
As Evia turns and offers a hand to the party to dance she is met with the group just disappearing down the hall way. Just then, Dissy stands up and holds out his hand. “They might not want to, but I would love a dance with such a pretty lady.” An innocent smile crosses this farmers plain face. Not ugly, but not handsome. “I will say, I’m a quick learner if you know the steps to this one.”
Into the private room.
The group orders their food and drinks. Sarah’s smile goes from ear to ear at the sight of the three gold coins. Looking around there are cloak hooks lining the sides of the fireplace, close enough to help dry but far enough away not to catch fire.
Moments pass and the party notices that Evia did not come into the room with them. Then again, you do remember the music in the air and could assume she is there.
Sarah comes bursting into the door with a large tray, followed by Mallie with a tray, and a powerfully built dwarf who is clothed in expensive clothing. He is a strong stout dwarf, but does appear to be very old.
Sarah passes out the food and drinks to everyone. She brings more than could be expected. There is mead, wine, and water to go around three times. On tray there are bowls of stew and loafs of bread.
“Well travelers, welcome to my inn. Mallie is the name! I don’t want to come off blunt... But what is the idea of bringing one of those in town for? They have become a burden to or community and seeing one of them in my inn doesn’t do good for business. Heck, I had to hire some traveling bards just to keep the peoples minds off the worries.” Mallie sits down in a chair and grabs a mug of ale. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be that way to newcomers. I know you had no idea of our troubles...”
The dwarf drops himself down into a chair. It creaks under his weight being plopped down. He crosses his arms and studies the group.
"Well, it appears that you've also hired us!"
Lanliss crosses the room and holds up the note that Mallie sent to the party.
"We've escorted Goodwoman Sten and her caravan back to town, and along the way we captured a goblin to gather more information about your town's problem."
Scarlet tears a piece of the bread off and dips it in the stew, letting it absorb the liquid before popping it into his mouth. He then takes a few bites of the stew with his spoon.
After getting some warmth into his stomach, Scarlet speaks up. "We capture this goblin with the second batch of goblins we ran into. Seems they have a new leader that is commanding them to cause trouble. The goblin kept on saying 'she' and 'not fail'."
He goes back to eating some of his stew.
Evia dances to the beat with Dissy and they twirl about the small area as she goes over the steps to the dance in her mind.
What fun already!
When the song ends and her dance revelry passes, she looks around to see the others still gone. She says, "Thank you for the dance. You are a quick a learner!"
She then slips into the room while the others are discussing things with Mallie and stands near the back of the room, quietly listening.
Barnabus hangs his cloak on a hook and takes a seat without interrupting the lady.
He nods to the stout dwarf at the table.