Blushing and glancing at the protective older brother, Camillo clears his throat and says, "Yes, well... Let us be off to the Cathedral. I will be very careful - I would cause you no further pain."
He looks at her for a long moment, but doesn't say more. He turns and starts toward the door.
We will succeed, sister. Let's go Camillo.
As the quill is offered to Vidar, several strong emotions chase each other across the wizard’s bearded face.
It is clear that some great inner struggle is taking place, enough to make his entire body shake with barely contained rage.
Finally he gives the quill a glare full of open hatred and snatches it without preamble from whoever is holding it out, storms over to the contract and signs it with large angry letters.
"Bah!"
He then sullenly walks over to stand with the others, refraining to spit on the floor only out of respect for the holy place.
If I didn't need a patron, and the rest hadn't taken him up on his offer I'd tell him where to stuff his "contract"!
Kerrec watches curiously as each of his comrades signs the contracts, somewhat amused at the various reactions to buttoning up a simple business transaction. Thanking the acolytes for their service he parcels out the coin and credits, and asks the acolytes to stay close by with Camillo's share as he should be arriving shortly. He also tithes 5 platinum to the church and asks to see the note left by Foxglove.
"I'm sure you all noticed the caravan that came into town this morning. From what I understand it could have items for sale that we can use for our plans going forward."
Loking at Vidar and Rullis. "How did things go with your research this morning?"
Vidar, still a bit sullen, manages to drag himself out of his dark reverie long enough to answer Kerrec.
"The key to shutting it down is to drain it of its power by using its primary identifiable function.
Basically we will have to create Sinspawns and defeat them until the fountain is empty of whatever energy it is storing.
To create a sinspawn seems like a straightforward enough process, blood is the key."
When handed the metal holy symbol of Gorzeh, Rullis seems confused. "Umm, thank you. I will cherish it greatly." He looks at it for a long while, turning it over in his hand, before pulling his backpack off his shoulders and placing the item securely inside. Not sure what I'm going to do with that, he thinks to himself.
Rullis starts to speak in response to Kerrec's inquiry, but Vidar beats him to it and Rullis falls silent once again while he speaks. Once the wizard is done, he appends with the obvious, "One of us will need to cut themselves to feed the pool. We should probably take care of that tonight so that we can focus on the goblin threat tomorrow. They might want revenge after they find out Toshio's brother is dead."
In turn Vidar and Kithian are granted a boon as a bonus for signing the contract. Kithian is given a throwing axe that looks almost as made from silver but the edge is razor sharp and it is lighter than steel. Vidar is given a spellbook that is hardbound in dark leather and edged in silver. In both cases the priests "oohh" and "ahhh" as they present your gifts.
The note from Foxglove is much as described. It announces Foxglove's good faith credit via funds confirmed by the church in Magnimar and indicates that the bonuses contained in the attached parcel are to be dispersed to each party should the choose to sign (whether it was Foxglove or a barrister or some other form of representation the letter seems to cover the scenario that the group might not sign.)
Additionally there are instructions that a bonus of 1000gp are to be given to Kerrec should he show "prompt enthusiasm" for the arrangement (by arriving within a span of 36 hours) and includes instructions for the delivery of the parcel that Kerrec received the day before. It is easily seen what the priests might have been snickering about; any mention of Kerrec usually involves the preceding titles of "Noble" or "Brave" while description of the other party members stick to classic "Master" and "Sir". The instructions, in total ,do seem to show a fondness for Kerrec.
As the group finishes it business at the church Camillo and Toshio are able to make their way into the Abadaran section. The priests urge Camillo over to the contract to review and sign if he wishes while Toshio is left with the others standing by.
Kithian holds the trowing axe testing the edge and gives a low wistle before hoding it out towards Vidar. "You can say what you want friend, but you can't say Lord Foxlove does not give out nice gifts."
Camillo looks at the others admiring their gifts and, eyebrow raised, notes each of their names on the contract. He proceeds to put his name on the line, wondering what, if anything, the dandy has in store for him...
As Camillo puts his name to the page the priests retrieve a shield that is a wood so dark it almost seems black. Upon its face are carved a lion and griffon locked in a sort of epic struggle. Despite its size the wood is exceptionally light but seems a durable as any shield twice its weight.
As they bring the shield to him, Camillo gives out a low whistle."That is absolutely beautiful. What a shame to use such a piece of art to turn aside a blade."
Then, as he takes hold of the shield, its weight - or lack thereof - nearly throws him off-balance. "Wow! This thing is like a feather compared to mine!" He looks up at the priest, "Are you certain this is for me? And do you know anything about this lion and griffon motif?"
He continues marveling at the shield as he walks to where the others are waiting. Suddenly a thought strikes him and his face saddens, "The time and attention to detail that a person can put into an implement of war, which prevents others from having the time to give their attention to detail." He closes his eyes for a moment as his free hand runs over the carving and a smile slowly returns. "I think this was lovingly made in a time of peace in hopes that it would not be necessary." He works with the straps and buckles on the back to make sure they fit his arm as well as they can.
"Oh, I almost forgot! Ameiko sent with me a letter of introduction to the caravan master. That should help us as we negotiate prices." He looks up from his straps, "Assuming that we are planning to spend some of that money today, of course." More quietly, he adds, "And we still need someplace private to speak..."
Camillo's last sentence grabs the attention of Rullis. "Yes. Shall we walk over to the Gozreh wing? We should be able to talk there in relative privacy."
In the meantime, Rullis contemplates what he might do with the money. His father would tell him that he should save it for when times are tough and the seas are lacking, but there is an immediate threat that he must face now. He just agreed to be sponsored by this man and he is paying for him to better himself now, not to get by later. He needs something to improve his own strength and skill for when they tackle that goblin nest. Maybe they'll have one of those faith focus pearls that he's seen before but could never afford. Or maybe he should see if they have a staff of many healing. This group is likely to be heavily injured when they thrust themselves into combat and they'll be looking to him for medical attention. Hmmm... Maybe I can see if the Father Zantus can teach me how to imbue the praise of Gozreh into some divine scrolls.
Toshio remains off to the side, he takes the opportunity to relay Amieko's instructions to Father Zantus
Zantus, though slightly perplexed agrees to comply with Ameiko's wishes. Meanwhile as you enterthe Gozreh wing with its motif's of sand and sea there are few people and those that are present (mostly acolytes and the random priest) nod to the party but give you wide berth. You are free to meet in relative privacy.
Sorry for the delay, it's going to be a long post and I haven't found the time to finish it. It's started and saved in a text file, so I'm working on it as I can.
"Well, let's get this over with, master Stillman explained the details pretty succinctly, so I don't feel there is anymore I need to add personally.
I am in favour of doing this as soon as possible; I feel that if I can study the effects of the fountain being tapped in power, I might be able to transcend onto a new plateau of magical powers myself."
Camillo nods at Vidar's comments. Then he waves the others into a huddle of sorts so he can keep his voice low enough that the few other visitors to the shrine cannot overhear.
"First, I've found that the madwoman has listeners in town in addition to Tsuto, so I want to have this conversation without other ears about. Second, I don't want to cause a panic among the citizens, but Shalelu may have been captured by the Thistletop tribe. This is why I wanted some privacy."
Holding up his hand for a moment while he gathers his thoughts, he continues, "I don't know how much we can trust the source of this information, but what little I know seems to match his claims, so...
"The man that waved me over said his name is Orik Vannsen. He claims to have been employed by Tsuto and was another follower of Nualia, but he's come to decide that he wants a way out. He fears if he turns himself in, they will kill him as the goblin was killed. He will surrender, but only as part of Nualia's defeat." Camillo produces a leather packet from an inside pocket. When he unfolds it, various small tools are visible, along with a heavy silvery key. He re-folds the packet as he shows the others the key. "Vannsen has the original of this and had this one made unbeknownst to anyone, especially Nualia or Tsuto. He claims that it fits the locks to Shalelu's shackles in Thistletop where the goblins are holding her and having their sport with her.
"He fears that if he runs, they will let the bugbear raze the town in a direct assault, something that he has no stomach for. He indicates that he is returning to Thistletop to delay their preparations for the assault to give us time to make ours. He intends to make arrangements like unlocking doors and such to make it easier for us once we are inside."
Looking among the others as he takes a breath, he goes on, "The goblin tribe has a druid that Vannsen claims hates Nualia for what she's done with 'his' tribe. The druid's grove hides the entrance to Thistletop, but he thinks the druid will allow us to pass through if we promise not to butcher the tribe. He'll want us to kill the chief for consorting with Nualia.
"He says Nualia's pet wizard is weak and will flee when pressed. If and when we come upon Vannsen and his men, he will order them to advance and will ambush them from behind to aid us. His condition for this information and aid is that we take him prisoner and petition on his behalf for a reduced sentence when he is taken to court for his crimes.
"I asked him to provide me with the best route to Thistletop. His response was much the same as what Joyuk the goblin gave us. Both routes sound right compared to my meager knowledge of that area. There is a mapmaker in town - I might see what he can provide on the area before we venture out."
He shrugs his shoulders, adding, "It seems too good to be true to have such information - and an ally inside - provided, but if Shalelu is a prisoner, I think we have to take the risk that he's not totally forthright. So the question for me becomes - if it's his game and he's cheating, how do we load the dice in our favor to win? Can we handle this fountain this day and head out to Thistletop tomorrow? What preparations do we need to make?"
Camillo shakes his head as he looks around. "It feels like time is of the essence, but I'm not sure what the best route forward is. Not yet."
Rullis was about to say something when Camillo paused, but holds onto his thought when he holds up his hand. He instead waits until the man is finished. Then he speaks in the same tone and voice that Camillo is using, even though he feels perfectly safe here in this wing of the cathedral.
"Well, we figured Tsuto must of had ears around town. It was too quick for them to respond to the goblin capture and then Toshio. I say we hurry up and take care of this pool and then hit the sack early. We should head out before well before dawn and strike while they still sleep and not fully ready. Whether he is telling the truth or not, I don't think it changes our plans. And we should keep this all to ourselves and don't speak of it again so that word doesn't leak out." He scans the group, hopefully seeing agreement on their faces.
Let us also consider Nualia's reaction to Tsuto's death. If she is a foolish woman her rage may hasten the goblin assault. Despite what the man said about delays, this attack may come sooner. I have only just arrived though, so I leave it to you to decide. Consider my words, though
"Toshio's right, but I hate to leave this fountain behind us - we don't know who else knows of it and might be able to use it against the town while we are gone. Shalelu is strong and they have hated her for a long time - if she's not dead already, they will try to draw this out. Actually, her capture will probably distract her nemesis from attacking the town right away. I hate to leave her in their hands, but she would rather we protect the town and she would do whatever she could, given the chance."
Thoughtfully, he adds, "Nualia seems to be mad, but I don't think she's impulsive. How long has she been planning this? Building alliances with goblins, hiring mercenaries, seducing Tsuto. These things take time. I think she's been working on this a long time and will not throw it away until she's sure. If Vannsen can sow doubt in her mind about whether her plans are about to collapse, I think she will try to see them through. I vote we take down the fountain and head for Thistletop tomorrow."
"I'll see that mapmaker today - I don't think we can reach Thistletop quickly enough in the morning to surprise them in their beds, but the distance may be shorter than I think."
"I'd also like to be able to pray again in the morning before heading out. It would be good to be refreshed with some sleep before battle."
listens to the others thoughfully. Scratching his chin. "Yes, I think destroying the fountain in case it is part of Nualia's plans should be done today. The problem is Shalelu's safety. Her time could be running out. I'd hate to tarry an extra day if it would cost her life. If we are able to travel most of the way to Thisteltop tonight, we may be able to surprise them in the morning."
Addressing Toshio: "I doubt Nualia cares much at all about Tsuto's death. From what Joyuk told us, she uses all she meets to further her own gains. Tsuto was a disposable commodity to her. I doubt she will hasten her plans out of some sort of emotional attachment to him."
Kerrec thinks for a moment. "Toshio, as you saw, we have been commissioned by a wealthy gentleman, a benefactor if you will. His generosity will enable us to equip ourselves better for what is ahead. A caravan filled with goods arrived this morning that we have heard may help us. Feel free to join us there and if you see something that may aid you in what's to come, I will be happy to purchase it for you."
Vidar, having feelings for Shalelu (even if he has not completely admitted it to himself yet) is torn by indecision.
At one hand saving Shalelu is obviously something he wants to do, but on the other hand, shutting down the fountain is something he feel needs to be done.
In the end he decides to listen and not add his voice to the conversation unless needed.
Realizing suddenly that the trip need not take long Vidar stands up and slams his hands on the table.
"We waste time! If we go down there NOW we can shut down the fountain and leave within an hour or two at most.
We can be there before the day is done.
But only if we go NOW!"
With Vidar's pronouncement, Rullis picks up his backpack and flings it over his shoulder. "Let's go then. I'll grab my spear and meet you there." He takes one of the letters of credit as he begins to move out of the room. "I'll see if I can pick up a healing wand along the way."
Noticeably calmer now that action is being taken, Vidar inclines his head towards Rullis in a polite nod.
"A wise plan master Stillman, we may need all the help we can get, this has become much too complicated for my taste already."
From the way he speaks, it is clear that Vidar is trying to apologise for being brusque as best as he can.
Kithian looks up from eating a turkey drum stick. "What are we doing? He flings the turkey bone over his shoulder and wipes his hands on his pants. "Bah, who cares, just tell me who I need to kill and give me time to get my dog.
"That should be a relatively easy question to answer master Darlok. We are going to be fighting your favourite enemies once more, Sinspawns."
"Sounds like a plan. On the bright side, they make strange sounds when you kill them." Kithian looks around then leans towards Vidar."Though to tell you the truth, my real favorite enemies are Leprechaun's. They smell like cabbage and have such wee little hands they just really creep me out. But that is a story for another time."
Vidar smiles a little nonplussed at Kithians comment.
"But I imagine they taste better than goblins at the very least?"
Camillo shrugs, "OK, then. I seem to have an unnecessary shield and a stop to make before we leave town. I'll meet you at the Glassworks shortly. Anyone else need to go by the 'Dragon?"
Kithian shrugs at Vidar, "No idea, never had the need to eat a leprechaun."
Gather Info:
No problem on scrolls of 2nd level or below; any spell in Core Rulebook is available. You have a straight 50/50 shot on spells from APG or UM, you can roll in post to see if you can find them if you want. (Just note if you are picking high or low).
Any potions are available(remember you get 15% off), MW falchion is easy. MW lucerne hammer is a go. +1 Breastplate is also available BUT it is western style (where as I imagine Toshio's current one is Tian....you probably could find someone in Sandpoint to lacquer and adorn it properly in your clan colors of lord's stylings after Thistletop, there is a fair sized Tian population in the town)
Kithian. Remember that Korvut has a Might Composite Shortbow +4 that he was willing to sell Kithian for 350. He has taken a liking to the gruff barbarian and can be talked down to 300 even for it when you pick up Reggie (Whose gears and stats I should have posted for you soon)
The Ranseur... the best you can get is 60% of market for it. Camillo the rest of your math looks right to me. Calculate the Ranseur and just let me know what you plan to do with the cash.
Rullis you are good for both things, I certainly would make the party pony up some dough for a little healing now and then. ;-p But I'm talking as someone who plays lots of clerics....
Haven't seen any requests from Kerrec. But we are on the lead up to holidays so I know this week might be spotty for us all.
I think it would be best after the shopping is done to do a revised inventory in the OOC, each person can post what they have and we can coordinate past loot if we think we are missing something. I want to make sure you are not only all equipped but fresh on what you had. Thisteltop has never been easy IMO and our game has taken a turn for the brutal and bloody. I expect the next few weeks of posts to be pretty gruesome (And hopefully fun) so I want to make sure we all know what each other can do as you assault the camp.
Kithian. Remember that Korvut has a Might Composite Shortbow +4 that he was willing to sell Kithian for 350. He has taken a liking to the gruff barbarian and can be talked down to 300 even for it when you pick up Reggie (Whose gears and stats I should have posted for you soon)
Recap:
Short Bow, Composite +4 STR = 300g
Falchion MW = 375 X .85 = 318.75
Reggie = 75 g
Scroll Bull Strength X2= 300 X .85 = 255
Potion Shield X2 100g x .85 = 85g
Potion True Strike X2 100 x .85 = 85g
= 1118.75
Falchion = 75 x .5 = 37.5g
=1081.25 gp total
"Thank you Master Darlok."
The Ranseur... the best you can get is 60% of market for it. Camillo the rest of your math looks right to me. Calculate the Ranseur and just let me know what you plan to do with the cash.
60% of market value for the ranseur as a masterwork weapon? Camillo might hold onto it and try for more cash based on its art and history, then...
Will have to make some decisions about gear - what I listed is more than I have cash for.
The Ranseur... the best you can get is 60% of market for it. Camillo the rest of your math looks right to me. Calculate the Ranseur and just let me know what you plan to do with the cash.60% of market value for the ranseur as a masterwork weapon? Camillo might hold onto it and try for more cash based on its art and history, then...
Will have to make some decisions about gear - what I listed is more than I have cash for.
Normally you would only get 50% (plus 10 for your trait) right? How much more did you think its history would net you? To be clear I'm not upset in anyway just curious what angle Camillo is trying to use to find a buyer...
Edit: Or perhaps I wasn't clear in that you can only get someone to buy it at 60% of market price IE. Nobody is overwhelmed but they'll give you what it's "worth" plus your trait bonus per usual.