This gameplay thread will be for gameplay. Here you will utilize all the information provided in Doomed Hero's Guide to PBP and what you've learned thus far to create a joint story with your fellow players and GMs. The GMs will be collaborating for this campaign as some of us have experience and are looking to impart that upon our fellows. More than six players is always tough on a new GM and a new GM who's just learning the ropes of play-by-post has his work cut out for him.
In the coming days, I will make the first in-character post in this thread. Until ten, please refrain from posting in this area and keep all chatter confined to the Discussion thread. Thank you and let's try to have some fun.
(31 Arodus, Last Day of Summer, 4707 Absalom Reckoning)
As one approaches the town of Sandpoint, the footprint of civilization upon the Lost Coast grows more clear. Farmlands in the outlying moors and river valleys grow more numerous and more fishnig vessels are seen in the waters of the Varisian Gulf to the West. The road widens just as it chokes with a motley assortment of Varisians, Shoanti, and Chelaxians headed to the Festival of Desna, and passages over river crossings become accomplished by wooden bridge rather than ford. The Lost Coast Road is nearing Sandpoint!
Sight of Sandpoint is kept hidden by lightly forested hilltops and rocky outcroppings that rise just east of town, but as the final bend is rounded, smoking chimneys and bustling streets greet travlers with open arms. The queue of folks lined up to enter town stretches back well away from the gate.
A low stone wall gives the town a bit of protection, as the road passes through the stone gatehouse, there are two bored looking guards at post, neither of which looks like they'd be much help in a real fight. The guards lean against their blunt spears, yawning, barely noticing, as the procession of festival-goers enters the town in slow single file.
As you approach the gate-house you see, hanging from a bent nail, a signa and a mirror --painted on the sign is the message: "Welcome to Sandpoint! Please stop to see yourself as we see you!"
People appear to have been up for hours, several merchants have set up tents to vend their wares of food, clothes, local crafts, souvenirs, and beverages. Others folk have arrived early to gain positions near the podiums and the tables beyond. Tables loaded with a picnic buffet ready for the congregation after the ceremonies. The Swallowtail Festival begins promptly as scheduled, and the turnout for the opening speeches is quite respectable. A stage has been set up in front of the cathedral and a woman with short auburn hair stands in the center. Behind her sit four wooden chairs, three of them occupied. The square before the church is crowded now, the women loading the tables and the merchants hawking their goods join other locals and travelers as Mayor Deverin walks on the stage. As the crowd notices her, the chatter begins to die down and eyes turn to the stage. She smiles and begins to speak.
“Good morning everyone.” The attractive and personable woman welcomes the crowd with her usual friendly attitude. Her excitement is obvious and proves contagious as she welcomes visitors and locals alike. “I see everyone’s arrived. Even Lars Rovanky has left off tanning hides to be here. I’m sure his workers are glad it’s not their hides getting tanned, at least not today.” When the chuckles died down and Lars stops glowering past a reluctant smile, Mayor Deverin continues. ”It's wonderful to see so many of you here to join us on this proud day, and I'd like to extend my welcome to the many new faces I see in the crowd. As Mayor, I’d like to extend welcome to you on behalf of the town. I hope you all are enjoying your stay here in Sandpoint and I sincerely hope that you're having a wonderful time. Our town has much to offer and I hope we can consider you as new friends. Spend some time in Sandpoint and you’ll grow to love it like we do. And even if you don’t stay long, spend your money while you’re here!”
Several of the merchants give a vigorous applause, and the Mayor lets the crowd settle before continuing over the remaining chuckles. “And to all of the old faces I see, thank you for coming and thank you for everything that each of you has done to keep this town strong. Thank you especially for all the time, sweat, and love you've put into building this fine cathedral. Sandpoint didn't seem complete without a church. We've always had heart. The true heart of Sandpoint is you, her people. But now we have an expression of that heart, and we built it ourselves!”. She ceased speaking for a moment to smile at the crowd. "Anyway, I can smell the lunch our tavern keepers are cooking already. A round of applause to Ameiko, Garridan, Cracktooth, and Jargie! I'm sure Father Zantus can spare an extra prayer that they don't burn anything before we get to eat it." More cheering erupts: the enticing aromas drifting over the crowd are overwhelming. "Now, since you have three more of us to stand there through and I've already said enough for all three of us, I'm going to sit down. Today as mayor I am declaring a town order to have fun! This is my favorite time of year!" The crowd responds with a roar, and its a while before the Mayor can continue over the applause. “Without further ado, let me welcome our dutiful Sheriff, Belor Hemlock to the stage!”
A dark-skinned, bulky man, clearly of Shoanti descent, wearing his armor and armed with a prestigious looking sword nods and steps forward onto the stage. "Thank you, Mayor. First off, let us have a moment of silence to remember the memories of those friends and family members who lost their lives in the tragic blaze that made our new cathedral necessary. Cherish those memories and may the blessings of our Gods see them happy and well in the Afterlife." He bows his head and stands in silence for a moment before raising it back up and scanning the crowd. "Over the next three days all instances of wrong-doing will be dealt with swiftly and to the fullest extent of the law. No exceptions. As the sheriff of Sandpoint, I, Belor Hemlock, would also like to welcome everyone to enjoy themselves today, and you may or may not be aware of the planned bonfire at the beach tonight... it looks to be a promising festival. Do trust that I will be monitoring the level of safe conduct late into the evening. I am trusting our fun will lean to the side of caution. If you are a militia member, remember where your duties lay, and help Sandpoint keep the peace. Thank you." With that the sheriff steps back awkwardly and beckons with his hand, for the next speaker to approach.
The next speaker is quite a contrast to the Sheriff; he is brightly dressed, sports a well-groomed goatee, and seems to be thoroughly enjoying the day. As he reaches the center stage he loosens his collar a bit, winks into the crowd and starts to talk. "Well, thank you Sheriff for that uplifting oratory. Don't worry I doubt there will be any fun for you to stress over today. If things get out of hand you can ask Ameiko to take the stage and put us all to sleep with one of her stories." The crowd responds with a combination of chuckles and offended heckles.
Without skipping a beat Ameiko shouts from her merchant tent, "What about the story of your last flop at the theater? I'm almost done with my newest ballad, I call it Cyrdak the Unimpressive! Who wants to hear?" The crowd responds with laughter and unanimous cheer while Ameiko can still be heard shouting over the crowd. "Your secret lady friend helped me come up with the name!" Cyrdak stands awkwardly waiting out the crowds laughter to die down, as it does Ameiko sneers in one more one liner, "What a sleepy crowd Cyrdak!"
After the noise finally quiets Cyrdak continues with a forced smile as if nothing happened, "We can all agree, this is our time to celebrate! I know this town has been through some hard times, but we don't lay down easily. Look at what we've accomplished!" He motions towards the church. "And I'm telling you, they spared no expense with this place. Father Zantus' chamber pot? It's solid gold and comes with a singing choir standing nearby. It's no doubt our neighbors and nobles put a pretty copper into the construction of this joint. And to think they wanted nothing in return, but to enlighten us and our taxes for many lifetimes to come. But worry not about your coin purse, I've heard from father himself that the gods are getting their gold together to help pay for this place. But don't take it from me, let me hand the stage off to the man who's in charge here. But before I let him get things going I'd like to take this opportunity to extend my personal invitation to each and every one of you to the new production of "The Harpy's Curse" starring the world-famous Magnimarian diva Allishanda as Avisera the harpy queen! It's all premiering tomorrow evening and continuing throughout the next two weeks at the Theater. Come see it, it will be fabulous! And now join me in a bit of applause for his holiness himself, Father Zantus!"
The crowd cheers as Cyrdak motions Zantus to the center stage. The young priest looks noticeably abashed at the reception set up for him. He wears the traditional ceremonial robes of a priest of Desna and a shiny silver holy symbol about his neck. He smiles and tries to calm the crowd down, eventually speaking when the applause has subsided: "Ahem, thank you. Thank you Cyrdak. And thank all of you for coming to join us on this most Holy day. Today as well all know ushers in the new Fall season. A season I have always thought was named appropriately, as today was the day Desna fell from the heavens during battle with Lamashtu. Though all the world wept for the loss of the goddess, and of dreams, it is said that she survived. She was discovered, on the rocks of a beach, by a blind orphan, forgotten and cast aside by the rest of the world. Though the orphan didn't know who she was and could do little for the wounded goddess, she still stayed by her side, holding a vigil on the beach, tending to her as best she could and praying to her god, Desna. When other followers had abandoned Desna, the orphan empathized and held hope in her faith. Through the care of this orphan Desna recovered and revealed herself to the blind woman. In return Desna transformed her into an angel and offered the girl ascension to Desna's palace in the heavens. It is now there and forever that they shall remain." Father Zantus motions toward the newly finished cathedral, the sunlight glittering off the stained glass windows. “This story reminds us that tragedy is just a setback, not an end. Though our place of worship was destroyed, and our previous priest, Father Tobyn, perished in the flame, we have preserved as Desna would desire, and built anew. Today is our day of new beginnings. Our day of ascension. Friends of Sandpoint, I declare the Swallowtail Festival officially underway!"
An acolyte throws off the canvas of a nearby wagon, revealing thousands of swallowtail butterflies...the Children of Desna. He opens the cages and the crowd begins to applaud as butterflies flutter in every direction through the crowd, and eager children begin chasing them.
Moments later Father Zantus and the others step off the stage and the crowd begins to disperse to enjoy the festival. Numerous games and contests take place during the day, including sack races, games of hide-and-seek, weight-lifting challenges, balance beam contests, tug-of-war events, and the like. Lunch is provided free, at the expense of Sandpoint’s taverns. Each brings its best dishes. It soon becomes apparent that the darling of the lunch is, once again, Ameiko Kaijitsu, whose remarkable curry-spiced salmon and early winterdrop mead easily overshadow the other offerings, such as the Hagfish’s lobster chowder or the White Deer’s peppercorn venison.
Today was the start of its Swallowtail festival honoring the goddess Desna. Merenwen didn’t worship Desna, though she had no hatred toward the goddess. She appreciated Her and Her talents, even though she worshipped the goddess Sheyln. The villagers seemed to bear her no ill will ever since she had been forced to call Sandpoint home for many months now. Despite the welcoming people and the general buzz of the festival, she still felt as if she didn’t belong.
She could hear the sounds of the festival above, the laughing, the speeches and general rowdiness. She could smell the food that the taverns had prepared for the guests. She knew she would join in the festival later, but for the moment she was content to miss the large crowd assembled.
Loki came up to her, exhausted from his play with the crabs. He lay down at her side, gave a huff and fell fast asleep. Merenwen looked at him with tenderness. He was her best friend and companion. As Loki slept Merenwen looked out at the waves. Her thoughts started turning towards the home she longed for.
How long can I hide here? She wondered. Will they find me? Will I ever be able to return home?
As she drifted off in her thoughts she heard a new sound start up above her on the cliff. She looked up and could barely make out a shady form. Panic began until she realized the sound she had heard was music coming from that figure. It was a soothing, sad, sweet tune coming from what sounded like a small instrument. She let the melody flow over her as her thoughts turned longingly, again, towards the forest.
Lavinia wiped her tears from her orange eyes as she approached the entrance to Sandpoint. Her long silver hair was tangled, her legs covered in bruises and dirt. Lavinia stopped to catch her breath looking up she saw the painted sign.
Lavinia pondered what they meant by ‘Please stop to see yourself as we see you’. What kind of greeting is that?
Not wanting to know if she was still being pursued, she ventured into the unfamiliar town. The town was lively; humans were running about laughing and smiling. Lavinia froze at the sight of them. In her mind the faces grew demonic; their mouths turning into snarls.
I have to get away, Lavinia thought.
Lavinia rushed through the streets trying not to draw attention to herself. She stumbled into a man’s leg. Lavinia looked up in terror.
“Are you alright little lady? Let me help you.” He said in a booming voice picking her up by the arm. Lavinia screamed and skittered away. She was running at full speed and quickly stopped once seeing the end of land. She found herself alongside a cliff. Below was the sea.
How beautiful, she thought, I've never seen the sea before.
Mesmerized by the turning waves, Lavinia pulled out her Ocarina and began to play a soft tune; thinking about her life, the one she desperately missed, and the goddess. Some Swallowtail butterflies gathered around her as once again tears stung at her eyes.
Norward Stepped up to the bridge and took in the sight before him: a town in full swing of festivities and excitement. This was the southern bridge on the east side of the city. Standing next to the guard house outside the city he saw a sign and a mirror, impulse took over and he went to check it out. First the mirror and read "Welcome to Sandpoint! Please stop to see yourself as we see you!" so natuarally Norward did; He looked into the mirror.
Norward was okay with the image he saw, a man whose face was shrouded by dark shadow, and wore a black cloak no fasteners in front of it so that it just hung from his shoulders and showed his white shirt and pendant of Irori. Norward then decided to make sure that traveling had not worn out his garb too much. His black belt looped through his black pants that were lazily hung over his shiny black leather boots.
And next to the boots was Syric, Norwards’ best friend and adventure buddy. He leaned down and gave the dog a scratch behind its ears. That was Syrics second favorite thing next to getting treats. Norward spoke to the dog in Abysal as not many people know it and it made it easier to train it “دعونا نذهب الأصدقاء” and the dog happily followed.
He crossed the bridge and on the other side just before he stepped off the bridge one of the guards stopped him. “You, what is your business here?”
It was Norwards’ first instinct to start a fight, but his rationale took over and he replied “I am Norward Uthradar and this is Syric. I am an Inquisitor of the Archon order under Irori, and I am here to make sure that our faith is being upheld in this city.”
The guard withdrew his sword and poked at the pendant around Norwards’ neck, “I recognize this, but I still don’t care for how you hide your face like that. You may enter so long as you uphold the peace. There is a festival going on. Enjoy yourself and don’t cause trouble.”
“Thank you sir” was Norwards’ only response. What a tool. He thought to himself. He walked into Sandpoint and just walked up the street taking in the sights. He heard someone in the background giving a speech and didn’t care. The only sight he saw that was of interest, was a girl was running and ran right into a man. The man looked friendly enough and offered a helping hand to her. She screamed and ran away, and as soon as the man didn’t pursue and walked the other way, Norward let him out of his sight. I hope that girl is okay. I wonder who she is?
And with a few more steps into town he was standing in front of a tavern. Norward entered the tavern and ordered two beers, two steaks, and a bowl of water for Syric. The bartender was hesitant at first because of the shadow over Norwards face, but in the spirit of the festivities handed them over any way.
Norward made his way over to the most isolated spot in the place and sat down. He gave one of the steaks and the bowl of water to Syric and downed one of the beers. Okay I made it here. What do I need to do first? I guess I should find a guide to show me around. Norward thought to himself. But for now I will just enjoy my day of travel completion. And he just sat there waiting for some excitement to happen or for the motivation to go explore town.
A small boy looks at those of you attempting to enter businesses during the Festival. "Uh, 'scuse me, folks, but since Swallowtail is going ain't one of these places open. They're all in the square cause of it. Got to go there if you're looking for a drink or bite." He holds up the stick of cat's meat he's eating. "Good food though. Try Ameiko's. She's always the best cook. Pretty too like my momma."
Meanwhile Lavinia an old woman wanders by and stops to listen commenting on how lovely your music is and how it remiss her of her younger days. Soon you have a small crowd gathered.
Merenwen was roused from her thoughts when she heard the sounds of people gathering at the edge of the cliff.
Guess it is time to head to the festival...May as well get Loki and I some of Ameiko's food.
At that moment she heard Loki's stomach rumble.
Yes She thought. It is definitely time to eat
She gently roused Loki and headed to the ocean to clean up. Once Loki was clean of sand, she washed her hands too. She stared at the waves a moment more before tying the silk rope she used as a leash around Loki's neck. The villagers seemed frightened of him, except for when she had him on a leash. Then even the small children would play with him until their parents told them to leave Merenwen in peace.
Loki heard the music from the top of the cliff and gave a sound like a growl that Merenwen knew was a purr. She smiled. He liked it too. She began to hum the melody so he could enjoy it as they started back into town.
Vincent Leone, in the middle of eating, drinking, and celebrating his successful training, notices a very quiet fellow traveling with a dog. Now Vincent is far from a saint, but he's not about to risk someone ruining the festivities. So, he approaches the figure and, upon recognizing the look of an inquisitor, asks him, "What brings a man such as yourself to a place like Sandpoint? I doubt you're here for a celebration in Desna's honor."
Lavinia stopped playing and the butterflies whooshed away. Timidly Lavinia replied,
"Thank you…"
The elderly lady with her soft wrinkles and toothless smile set a warm feeling in her heart.
Maybe not all Humans are bad thought Lavinia,
But one glance behind the lady’s frail body made Lavinia hiccup in fright. Looking at their faces she could see that they wanted something from her.
Do they want my Ocarina? But as this thought ended she reached for the blue feathered earring from her left ear.
“You can’t have it, Zirul gave it to me!” She boldly shouted.
Oblivious to their confused faces, Lavinia took brisk steps toward the entrance.
Why did I even step foot in this town? Was on Lavinia’s mind, until she heard a woman voice humming a melody. Not just any melody but the one Lavinia just played. Lavinia quickly looked up to see a very tall beautiful woman. The woman’s hair was black, no it was indeed dark green. Lavinia saw her pointed ears.
Almost like Zirul’s she thought. Nervously Laviania grabbed the woman’s garb
“Excuse me but—“
The woman’s eyes was an exotic Kelly Green, truly captivating. But at the sight of the Deinonychus Lavinia was scared-stiff. Her hands started trembling, dropping her Ocarina to the ground.
Merenwen walked briskly into town, leading Loki who was calmly walking beside her, as content as could be.
She was still humming the tune she heard from the cliff when she felt a small tug on her armor and a timid voice. She looked down into the bright orange eyes of a halfling girl, with long silver hair. The girl looked truly frightened and had dropped an instrument on the ground. The instrument was an ocarina.
Merenwen realized that this was probably the source of the music she had earlier heard. She also realized that the halfling girl kept staring at Loki as if she were afraid he would eat her up.
Merenwen slowly dropped to her knees and said "Do not be afraid. He will not harm you." She turned to Loki. "Loki, sit please."
Instantly Loki sank to the ground with a small sigh. He too could see how scared the halfling girl was, and avoided looking at her and sat very still.
Merenwen turned back to the girl, picked up the fallen ocarina and handed it back to her. "You look like you are hungry. Come with us. Ameiko makes the best food in town."
She stood up and held out her hand to the halfling. "My name is Merenwen. What's yours?"
Norward was not in a mood to be social, long weeks of travel had left him exhausted and looking for food
He grumbled to himself this is why I need to be entirely invisible when I want.
He grunted and pretended not to hear anything instead he told Syric "دعونا نذهب الأصدقاء" again and started to walk toward the festivities, dog at his side, and find someone who might point him out to some refreshments.
He never took his eyes off this half-elf who was so brazen to challenge though. Norward thought to himself I looked like a holy fighter. This half-elf clearly is not town guard, and therefore had no right to disturb my rest.
Vincent saw that the inquisitor must have been looking for a place to stop and rest.
"Pardon me, where are my manners? Let me buy you a drink."
Norward quickly reconsidered is past disgust of being anti-social. I can be nice for a bit I guess if it means free drinkshe thought to himself as he turned around, fully showing his garb, armor and weapons.
"Howdy stranger, I would be glad to take you up on that offer. My name is Norward, and this is Syric. We are new to town and dont know where to get foodstuffs..."
He looked at Syric and said"ويقول مرحبا" and pointed to the half-elf. the dog sat and lifted a paw and waved at the half elf. "الشاطر حسن" Said Norward after the trick.
Norward walks over to the half-elf, hand extended to shake hands, but other hand on his sword in case half-elf is trouble.
I'm Vincent."
Vincent says this as he shakes the inquisitor's hand. As he's leading Norward to a place for a few drinks, he thinks to himself, Howdy? This is either the most backwater country inquisitor I've ever met or he's playing games with me. They reach a stall that one of the less popular bartenders is running and asks for two mugs of ale. Almost as soon as they arrive, Vincent quickly drinks the mug of ale.
"So what god or goddess bids an inquisitor to visit the town of Sandpoint all of a sudden?"
Norward, holds off on answering that question and asked for some water for Syric, and some food for both him and the dog. And as soon as the food and water had been delivered to him and the dog he answered.
"I am an inquisitor of the Archon order, and I am here on behalf of the great Irori."
Norward pauses to take a swig of the ale and then continues.
I am here to ensure the betterment of our country and its people. My job is to clear the way of those who are unforgivable and make way for the holy priests to arrive and teach the ways if Irori."
He looks around to make sure that the festivity isn't holding a nasty surprise like what happened in his home town a couple of years ago. And upon finding nothing suspicious, he reached down and pet Syric and continued:
So now that you know about me a little, what gives you the gall to stop me like that, who are you to act like my superior?" Norward said with as much sharpness in his voice as he could muster and hand on his sword.
Lavinia’s initial thought was not to trust a woman, but this woman seemed to mean no harm.
She looked at Merenwen’s hand. Instead of reaching out to her, Lavinia gripped her ocarina tightly. Trying to put a brave front she announced
“Lavinia… And I’m not hungry.”
But at the end of the line her stomach blew her bluff. Turning a slight pink color from her embarrassment,
“Okay… Maybe I am a little, I’ll come with you.”
How much of what she says can I really trust? Lavinia thought.
Trying hard to keep her feelings to herself she stared at Merenwen’s feet.
“So who is this Ameiko, is she nice?”
As Merenwen dropped her hand, she realized that there was much more to this halfing than she had originally thought. She wasn't just frightened of Loki..She was frightened by her too.
Slowly, so as not to startle Lavinia, Merenwen got to her feet and said "Loki, up please. Slowly." Loki gently got to his feet and made a clicking sound that she knew meant he was hungry.
"This way Lavinia." she said gesturing for the girl to walk next to her, but not so close as to terrify her. "I have only been here for several months Ameiko is a kind soul. It is my belief that a horrible person cannot make food like hers. Once you try her curry-spiced salmon, you will never want to stop eating."
She thought she saw a fleeting smile at that comment,but when she went to smile back Lavinia was staring straight ahead.
As they walked deeper into town, towards the food Loki noticed a small dog at the feet of a hooded man and a half elf. He nudged Merenwen and huffed. She smiled and said "I do not believe that man would be happy to let you play with his pet Loki. Come on let's eat." With only a few glances back at the dog, he followed compliantly.
"Hey, leave that sword of yours alone. I may not be a saint or anything remotely close to one, but this is my hometown. I'm not acting as a superior, I'm simply a man who's finally returned home and chooses not to take chances that all strangers here are good. So, just calm yourself and share a few drinks with me."
Still standing, Vincent grabs for his ale, chugs what's left of it down, and says to Norward, "Besides, this will probably save you from the sheriff questioning you himself for my exact reasons. At least this way you get some free ale out of it too."
I think I may be starting to like this guy Norward thought to himself.
"Okay, sorry. My life has not been easy, and I am vary wary of trouble" he said taking his hand off the sword and returned to petting Syric who looked distracted by some animal following an elf and a halfling.
Norward then said "I guess I owe you my thanks then" and lifted the mug in salute.
"So whats going on here, what is this celebration for?" and put the mug on the bar and pointed to the town square.
Hearing Merenwen tell Loki not to play with something she looked up. In front of her was a hooded man with a dog. Lavinia sighed thinking,
Today is definitely not getting better. A faceless man with one of those things.. what's waiting for me at the end of the day's light?
Lavinia sat down next to Merenwen, still a little cautious.
"So curry-spiced salmon... sounds fancy."
Lavinia's orange eyes suddenly noticed the male half elf next to the hood man. Lavinia started to fidget in her seat.
If only I could get a better look, I would know if it's Zirul or not, Thought Lavinia.
Merenwen sat down at a table and brought Loki to the side so Lavinia wouldn't have to sit by him. She noticed that Lavinia was extremely fidgety, and listened to her comment about the salmon.
Merenwen chuckled and waved Ameiko over. "I don't know about fancy, but it will be the best food you have ever eaten. She took two plates from Ameiko and set one down in front of Lavinia and the other in front of herself. Ameiko soon returned with a steak for Loki. Loki started clicking rapidly until Merenwen put his food in front of him. "Say thank you Loki." Loki looked up and cooed at Ameiko before devouring his steak. She laughed and went back to the other guests.
Merenwen started to eat and kept glancing at Lavinia as she did so. she has a lot of bruises....I wonder what happened to her...
Merenwen decided the best way to get the girl to eat would be to leave her in peace without a million questions. She wasn't extremely curious anyway. If Lavinia was to be a part of her quest, then it would take time to learn that and time to get to know her.
Perhaps after she has eaten enough I could help her again by treating her wounds... thought Merenwen
"This is a town celebration honoring the goddess Desna. Other than that, though, I'm clueless to it myself. I've been training abroad for the past couple of years and only got back today."
Vincent takes a seat and asks the bartender for some food. While he's waiting, he starts to feel fidgety from the lack of excitement as he was unaccustomed to going more than a day without need of his bow.
"You get a whole fish?!" Lavinia said with austonishment. She turned to Merenwen who was eating. Lavinia started to copy Merenwen's way of eat. Lavinia took the first bite... And begun to cry.
Merenwen looked in astonishment at Lavinia as the halfling burst into tears. This was a strange situation for Merenwen. Loki looked up and tilted his head in concern. Merenwen shook her head at him and with a low rumble he went back to his steak.
Merenwen turned towards Lavina and said "Of course you get a whole fish. It is a festival, and this town has plenty to go around. Why are you crying?"
Syric began growling at something behind Norward as soon as Vincent had finished his answer. Great Norward thought more trouble. he turned around to see the elf and halfling right there.
"Hold up Vincent, sorry" said Norward and put his hand up to the dogs snout to calm him down.
Norward stood up and turned his back to Vincent intentionally and looked at the two women. first thing he noticed was that the little one was crying and the elf was just eating.
He took one step toward them as to not frighten the halfling. and removed his hood after making sure Vincent couldn't see, which he only did in cases like this.
He then took a knee and asked the halfling "are you alright? My name is Norward and I am an inquisitor sent by Irori to help those in need. I saw you crying and it breaks my heart to see a woman like that. Please, if I may, is there anything I can do for you?"
Lavinia sniffled and smiled at Merenwen,
"It taste really good!! I never knew that things with faces could taste so good! I'm more accustom to land meat!"
Lavinia continued to shovel the fish into her mouth, only slightly keeping an eye out for the Male half-elf.
Out of no where a half-elf appeared startling Lavinia with his words.
This Norward looks exactly like Zirul! Well his hair isn't short enough and his eye color is totally wrong. Okay he doesn't look exactly like Zirul, but he's a half-elf like him! Lavinia thought.
"Umm... Inquisitor... of Irori?" Lavinia threw out the words confusingly
"I'm okay!" Lavinia smiled, "Food with faces taste delicious!"
She smiled again childishly.
"Hey Merenwen, can I have another one?"
Lavinia noticed the dog behind Norward, then she saw the hood around his neck... Of course this guy would be the trickster of her eyes today she thought
Lavinia trembled in her seat but stared into Norwards eyes,
"I pray to Desna, so I don't think someone like you should really insult her by preaching of another on her day... Can't you show some hospitality towards another god? Plus she gave me some yummy food."
At the sudden arrival of the hooded half-elf with the dog, Loki had instantly perked up and was paying close attention to what was happening. He began to fidget and the feathers on the top of his head wiggled.
Before replying to Lavinia's question Merenwen calmed Loki down. then she turned to the sweet half elf and said "Sure thing, Lavinia." and motioned Ameiko to bring two more plates over plus another steak for Loki.
Noticing that the now non-hooded half elf was still kneeling next to Lavinia and making the girl uncomfortable, so she said "Norward is it? You are welcome to continue the discussion with us. take a seat." she then motioned toward the half elf Norward had been talking to before. "Invite your friend too. It's a festival, eat, drink, and enjoy despite your religion."
Merenwen turned and smiled at Lavinia. She was really starting to enjoy this halfling's company.The girl had spunk.
Norward turned to the elf, once again making sure that Vincent could not see his face. and spoke to her first "I am sorry madam, but he is not my friend, and in fact I would prefer not to be in his company, he has insulted me, and I do not trust such a brazen outcast."
Then he addressed both of them "I sincerely apologize for stating my religion, it was not my intention to bring up something so sensitive. As for the holiday, I did not know what it was for, I arrived in town this day and know nothing about it. And for that I am truly sorry, I shall not do it again."
And in turn Norward replied to the halfling "Irori and I have no quarell with other gods and, in fact, we encourage other gods and their followers. And I also apologize you about bringing up my god, I promise to you that I shall not do that again. It is my honor to bring you joy so please do not be offended by me." He said rith obvious regret that he had offended her, the girl who looked so poor and helpless. Who could do something like this to anyone, especially a little girl like this he wondered.
Norward then stood up, put Syric in a sit and stay, then bowed deeply at the women "Thank you for your kind offer to join you, I would love to be in such good company. If charming young lady aproves, of course" he said while gazing at the halfling and putting on a charming smile.
Vincent, out of curiosity, watched where Norward went in a subtle manner so that he wouldn't notice. Upon seeing the elven woman and the halfling, Vincent decided to hang back and listen in on what he was saying. After Norward finished speaking, Vincent came up to the group of three and introduced himself.
"Well Norward, I'd expect to hear nothing less from any realistic man who intends on maintaining a relatively long life span. As for my previous words to you, I do apologize, but there's no good way question someone you're suspicious of without offending them. As for you two ladies, good day to you. My name is Vincent. What are your names?"
As the day progresses, numerous games and contests take place throughout, including sack races, games of hide-and-seek, weight-lifting challenges, balance beam contests, tug-of-war events, and the like. Many of the locals participate as well as celebrity matches with folks such as Ameiko Kaijitsu and Father Zantus. Even Mayor Deverin participates in at least one tug-of-war event.
A sharp retort, like the crack of distant thunder, slices through the excited crowd as the sun's setting rays paint the western sky. A stray dog that you notice crawl under a nearby wagon to sleep starts awake, and the buzz of two dozen conversations quickly hushes as all heads turn toward the central podium, where a beaming Father Zantus has taken the stage. He clears his throat and takes a breath to speak. In replacement of words, however, a woman's scream slices through the air. A few moments it is followed by another, then another. Beyond them, a sudden surge of strange new voices rise --- high-pitched, tittering shrieks that sound not quite human. The crowd parts and something low to the ground races by, giggling with disturbing glee as the stray dog gives a pained yelp and then collapses with a gurgle, it's throat cut open from ear to ear. As blood pools around its head, the raucous sound of a strange new song begins, chanted from shrill, scratchy voices.
From nearby several of these creatures begin chanting and throwing gouts of fire into buildings nearby. Many of the trained locals join the fray to stave off the violence. Throughout the creatures continue their song.
Vincent/Norward
Lavinia
Merenwen
Goblins
Syric
Loki
Vincent -
Norward -
Merenwen -
Lavinia -
Loki -
Syric -
Goblins -
Vincent passes between Syric and Loki moving 30 ft in the direction of the goblins and attacks the leftmost goblin with his composite longbow.
Seerac was expecting to walk into a festival with a cheerful atmosphere. She had planned on coming a little late, to avoid the speeches and such. Maybe, if she was a little late she could just sneak in unnoticed.
Instead of hearing song as she ambled down the road to the town, she heard screams. She began to run. She skidded to a stop, just past the gate's entrance. A fight was brewing. vicious looking goblins with toothy grins stood among several dead bodies. Blood was oozing out of the open bodies.
Those poor people. nobody deserved to die during a night of joy, or at least most people.
people were beginning to flee now. there were screams and shouts as all chaos seemed to break loose.
I have to do something
Seerac wasn't sure what she was exactly going to do, but she knew she had to do something. sure, battles weren't her strong point, but magic was, and you could use that in battle.
Clock had shown up a week before to watch and volunteer at making the last few touches to the cathedral.
He was enjoying watching the half elves playing the "who has the bigger d***" game." Clock was all for acting tough when you needed to, but not around friends (he only hoped they would figure that out). And in a festival everybody should be friends.
What interested him more was the obviously abused half-ling and her recently adopted step mother.
When all of a sudden a familiar song cut through the happy crowd.
I hate goblins. Thought Clock.
For a moment Clock thought about not getting involved after all he was here to learn the nature of the gods. And if a goblin party attacks at the coronation of a new temple to the goddess of luck Desna, well who was he to interfere. Who knew maybe he would gain some new insights if he just sat back and watched.
"F***!" Clock shouted out loud readying his crossbow. Who knows. Maybe it was fated.
"Sorry Vincent, but there is battle to be had here." Norward said as he raised the hood back over his head.
Back in his element of mystery and holy justice, he told the ladies "I will have to get your names later, please stay here where I can protect you and you wont get run over by the crowd."
Syric was so ready for some action, he was hunkered down, tail wagging, and a low growl came from his throat. But he did not move as the command had not been relayed to him.
Norward after turning away from the elf and halfling women and drawing his sword, took one step forward and pulled out his shield too which bore the insignia of Irori prominently displayed, black, on top of the shiny metal surface.
His stance was, to all others, way too relaxed to be any sort of battle ready position. sword tip almost touching the ground, shield facing behind him and half hidden to those standing in front of him. The only thing that gave away the battle readiness of that stance was the way that Norward squared his shoulders and tensed with anticipation.
But in order to protect the women he did not charge, instead he waited to see where the battle would go and if there were enough soldiers to vanquish these monsters. if so, then he would escort the women out of the area to make sure they were safe. and if not, he would join the fray.
The high pitched voices rang in Lavinia's ears. The flames from the fire enhance the orange glow of her eyes.
Lavinia thought for a moment that time would stop. Her heart began to race. And fear clouded her mind.
I need to get away, I don't want to get hurt. Then Lavinia saw the white-haired half elf take aim at one of the creatures without hesitation.
Lavinia stood in awe at him.
Norward, whose face was hidden again,
"I will have to get your names later, please stay here where I can protect you and you wont get run over by the crowd."
Lavinia was a bit shocked at Norward's words.
Just like Zuril, she thought, however how he said the words felt wrong.
Lavinia reached into her satchel, pulling out the hand cross-bow.
She nodded at Merenwen,
"No more."
Lavinia's eyes were fierce. She walked 15ft down the center of the crowed, just passing Norward.
"Run over by the crowed? There's a saying that it's not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog... Or is it the other way... No I was right the first time! So what I'm trying to put out there is I won't stand being told I'm useless any longer."
Lavinia loaded the hand cross-bow, and took a deep breath.
She shouted as loud as she could in Goblin;
"Аз няма да ви прости, ти петел нещастници!"
Merenwen rolled her eyes at Norward's words.
I'm not some dainty flower..even if I was, I have Loki, I don't need a stranger to protect me.
In comparison he watched in shock, and awe as Lavinia transformed from a shy little girl, into a warrior. She grinned as she heard what the halfling yelled in Goblin.
If Lysel had had the chance to grow up he would have done the exact thing she just did...
Merenwen untied the rope from Loki's neck, giving him a nod and drew her bow, notching an arrow. She brushed past Norward and stood by Lavinia aiming at the goblin next to the one Vincent had shot at.
As the first goblin lies dead, the goblin next to him notices a nearby plate of salmon and begins filling his pockets with food. Then the other remaining goblin charges Vincent and attacks.
Vincent is fortunate and manages to easily evade the goblin's blade.
Syric was on edge, He'd never seen a goblin before and he didn't like the way they sounded or looked. Being a loyal dog though he did not charge, instead he took his cue from Norward and stood at the ready.
The only thing that actually unsettled Syric was when the short girl shouted in that nasty sounding language. He stared at her for a moment; she was so friendly looking but sounded so vile, which confused him. He quietly growled at her and waited for orders.
Loki growled quietly as he kept stride with Merenwen. He had been trained to be prepared for any sort of situation, and was completely focused on the task at hand.
He didn't charge in front of Merenwen, knowing she didn't want to risk hitting him with an arrow. He crouched, tensed and ready for a goblin to try to get close to Merenwen and the little halfling.
Vincent draws another arrow and fires at the goblin that attacked him, but just narrowly misses his mark.
Norward could only shake his head and smile at the two women, especially the little one; the one who was only moments before was crying and now was charging into the thick of it.
He quickly cast a spell on the little girl as she looked the most fragile and charged into battle drawing his sword as he charged.
Norward runs up to the monster attacking Vincent and takes a hack at it.
Lavinia fired up inside, loaded her crossbow. She started to take aim when the goblin she was aiming for died in front of her eyes. The goblin’s body was like a puppet with his strings suddenly cut. He just fell to the ground with no hope of life inside. The blood began to seep out.
How can so much blood come from one body? She questioned. The holes in the goblin’s skin told of a messy end. After the second shot he was already dead,
or was it the third?
The arrows seemed too blurred together. The scene spoke of rage and hate. The body now limp and abandoned on the cold grey cemented ground was now stained with red.
Lavinia’s eyes began to tear up. The fear became a tangible, living force that crept over her like some hungry beast, immobilizing Lavinia; her brain, holding her captive. She could feel the flight or fight responses kick in, increasing her heart rate, flooding her with added adrenaline, but the fear; the beast holding her captive took control of her entire being. Lavinia could feel her limbs but unable to move from the situation in front of her.
She thought what she was experiencing was the closest thing to death one can acquire, and yet remain alive.
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Here's an updated map for everyone.
The letters are the 1st letters of our character names. V for me, N for Norward, M for Merenwen, LV for Lavinia, LK for Loki, and S for Syric. There are 2 goblins left.
Merenwen watched as the bravado left the little halfling girl. More maternal feelings sprang up within her, as Lavinia's silver hair glinted in the sunlight. Lysel! she thought for a second,before remembering that her son was dead and gone.
I couldn't save him, but I can keep this girl safe today.
Merenwen moved left diagonally 15 feet, until the two half elves were out of range of her bow, and she had a clear shot of her goblin. She raised her bow, arrow at the ready and let it fly.
As the battle continued, the goblin stuffing his pockets moves towards a nearby table and climbs on top of it, while the other goblin attempts to attack Norward.
While the goblin struggling to climb the table finally gets up, the other goblin narrowly misses Norward.
Norward finally gave Syric the command to attack the goblins, so at his master's command he rushed to the nearest target and went for a bite.
The goblin evaded Syric's crushing jaws and Syric stood ready for his master's next command.
Loki watched Merenwen's arrow fly into the goblin nearest to them. He spotted the second goblin on the table. Merenwen nodded at Loki and he knew that he was meant to attack the disgusting creature. He lunged forward, biting at the goblin, making sure that the goblin was in full view if Merenwen wanted to use her bow on it.
Vincent moves 1 step diagonally to the right and fires an arrow at Loki's target and unfortunately misses yet again.