Cleo.... what are you doing here? Wabbit says with a big smile and welcomes her with a hug.
who's takin care of the fam while you're out here.....? They'll never survive without you to patch them back up Wabbit then gives a hearty laugh. Surprised and pleased to see a friend from home
bout time some of them learned to fend for themselves a bit while you see some of the world... good for you.
Helgarr enjoys her time with Savah - she does not feel this to be a tussle to get the highest leverage on the prices, but instead she tries to learn as much as she can by the way the expert armorer and weaponsmith appraises the items.
"Always lookin to pick up some new stuff. Heard y'all made like bandits in a dragon's den."
"The tally was heavy with the loss of Furnok" - the barbarian nods - "But we do have a veritable hoard, that is true Savah" - and smiles at the woman's honest attitude.
"...Fiery destruction from miles away!!" yells an old, white bearded, bald human as his spectacles fall onto his lap, currently occupied by a tan coloured cat. With him around a large table are three other people. A tall and lanky old man with a frizzy brown beard, a stern looking old man with an incredibly long black beard, and a much younger woman with short brown hair.
Mr. Haladin, the frizzy brown beard welcomes Cleo and Aggah, and invites them to tell their story. He explains that Mr. Quink the white beard could use a break from his Thassilon conspiracy theories. He introduces Mr. Quink the white beard as an independent scholar on all this Thassilon, Mr. Gandethus the black beard as an expert on magical curiosities and oddities, and Sabyl Sorn, monk and owner of the House of Blue Stones monastery.
To keep Aggah distracted, Mr. Haladin brings out a book that he personally drew. A picture/colouring book designed for goblins. He never thought he'd ever get to see the day when an actual goblin willingly entered the Curious Goblin bookshop.
The conversation is very long, hours even. With snack breaks and times where one of the elders would go fetch a book or scroll from their home. But eventually, the group of sages are able to discover a few things for Cleo.
- Sabyl Sorn is particularly educated in life beyond death, the planes beyond and the outsiders that visit. She believes that Malfeshnekor is the name of a demon, and that it is likely a barghest since it presumably has four legs and is capable of charming humanoids. Intelligent and cunning, barghests are said to have once belonged to the plane of Hell before they were stolen by Lamashtu and protected within the Abyss. They grow in power with each humanoid that they eat.
- Mr. Quink knows of these kings and queens that Cleo has mentioned. Long, long ago there were multiple rulers of Thassilon, not just one. They are called Runelords, and each controlled a little section of Thassilon. The only woman was called Alaznist the kind. The king mentioned is quite likely Karzoug the generous. Brodert Quink is very, very interested in studying these ruins, but has no interest in fighting this Malfeshnekor creature.
- Mr. Gandethus isn't knowledgeable in the realm of Thassilon, but he is capable of identifying the abilities of magical items. With a day's time he could identify all the spells written in that spellbook, as well as identify the orb and the star medallion.
- Mr. Haladin does have a pair of books detailing various demons and devils. For barghests, it says that they are strong and hardy four legged wolf-like creatures with goblin-like heads. They have various spell-like abilities, but are only movement or enchantment related. They prefer to get into the thick of battle and kill humans with their claws and teeth. Barghests are resilient against all weaponry, but magical weaponry is usually able to do the trick. Of all evil outsiders, barghests are fairly common due to their craving for human flesh (despite the fact that they have no need to eat or breathe).
So, enchanting gear will mean checking in at the Feathered Serpent? Or it can be done here? If the process gets too convoluted, or you want to waive it completely I have no issues in simply dropping the idea, and roll with whatever items we find ;)
Cleo returns his hug Oh they'll manage, probably glad to be rid of me, especially Mom. she says with a hint of sadness. But no mind to that. Are you still travelling the world or stopping for a bit? I can't wait to hear your stories, but for once I have one for you as well. she says with equal part pride and dread.
She'll fill him up on all the things that's been happening as she heads over to the Curious Goblin, unless he has other places to be. She'll also introduce him to Aggah, telling them both bits and pieces about each other to make the entire introduction thing more comfortable.
Cleo is quite intimidated by the group of very esteemed members of the community, which tampers a bit at their enthusiasm for helping with this puzzle. Sabyl Sorn's help is a tad perplexing since she flatly refused to help them earlier about the strange pool under the city. Remembering that day hurts, because it makes her remember how Furnok got so tongue tied around the attractive woman.
A demon that eats people... any truly crippling weaknesses it might have? she asks hopefully to Haladin and Sabyl.
To Mr. Quink You are quite welcome to join us for the travel and remain above with the goblins, and Hannah, if you like good sir. If not, I'm sure we can make another trip once everything has settled if we live, she thinks to herself.
She'll thank Mr. Gandethus for his kind offer in helping identify the remaining object, and makes an appointment with him tomorrow morning if he is free. I can bring you breakfast from the inn, if you wish. In thanks again.
Wabbit listens intently to Cleo's tale and walks with her to the Goblin.
Haladin shakes his head. "None that I can see."
Gandethus simply asks for a small donation of either gold or time to the orphanage. He is the one who owns and runs it.
Quink is happy to accompany you, but remain out of the fight. He's always had a few questions to ask a legitimate druid, as well.
Sorn thanks Cleo for what she's done for Sandpoint, and then returns to her monastery for her evening meditation.
----------
As Brelin made her way to the garrison, she noticed the near-fanfare around the village. Though folks around here were normally friendly and open (except for a few bad eggs), everyone is finally joyous. A rare occurrence, since the Late Unpleasantness five years ago. Regulars of Brelin's little tavern, Risa's Place, are considering throwing a feast for the new heroes of Sandpoint. Inside the garrison, a guard informs Brelin that the Sheriff and a few guards have gone out of town for the day, and won't be around until nightfall.
Brelin wanders around the festivities, not affected by the good mood. She avoids anyone especially joyous as if they had the plague
Too early to celebrate, there are dark days still ahead she tells to anyone listening
Eventually she finds her way to the Curious Goblin looking for that famous group
At the inn, a slightly round ginger haired halfling is bustling around with a plate of sausages and a couple of mugs of cider. "HELLO!" she calls out as Brelin comes in. "Sit... um somewhere..." she'll dish out the food to two women, Helgarr and Maria, "I'll be right back to find out what you want."
Passing by Wabbit just coming down. "Wabbit! Go see Helgarr over there, I'll bring out some breakfast for you."
Wealday, the 14th of Lamashan, 4711AR
Gathered round the largest table of the Rusty Dragon Inn during this cold, windy, and cloudy morning are the newfound heroes of Sandpoint. Helgarr, a young Shoanti woman blessed with immense strength and a matching willpower. Cleo, a young halfling woman who follows the teachings of Erastil, and helps anyone in need. And Maria, a sarcastic young woman, barely considered an adult, is by far the sneakiest of the group. With them sit two new persons: Wabbit, a friend of Cleo's, and Brelin, daughter of the famous, mysterious, and recently vanished Risa Magravi.
Now faced with the singular task, the group must consider how they shall kill the demon Malfeshnekor, and save their friend Shalelu from his magical enchantment.
Helgarr nods at Wabbit with a smile - "Well met friend. I am Helgarr. Cleo tells me you are childhood friends?" - she stands up from the table, hand extended in a greeting.
The girl moves effortlessly, her massive frame perfectly sculpted from years of enduring and hunting in the wild; dark brown eyes coupled with a fierce look make her stand out in a crowd. Her short hair, and exposed neck, partially reveal one of her tatoos, not uncommon in Shoanti clans, but clearly important to be in such a prominent display.
Helgarr nods with a smile of thanks at Savah - "We were introduced to him once, by Father Zantus" - she ponders - "He runs the orphanage and Academy if I remember correctly? I will pay him a visit, and come back to you. Thank you Savah"
yes Helgarr Cleo and I go way back Wabbit says with an easy smile she's also patched me back up together more than once. I never expected to meet up with her away from home but sounds like you all have certainly had some interesting times together
As the conversation turns to demons and Shalelu..... bad bit of business that... never fought a demon before but there's a first time for everything
she's also patched me back up together more than once...
"In that case we already have something in common" - the young barbarian chuckles, her hand still extended - "Are you going to greet me back, or do I need to go 'barbarian' on you right away?" - she adds, still with a wide smile.
Brelin keeps silent and barely participates in the pleasantries and small talk.
Then the conversation turns to the demon.
I've seen the beast before, my cards have shown him to me - Brelin suddenly speaks, not even looking at them, her eyes staring at something only she seems to see.
But I don't have the details - she moves her eyes to the rest of the group - What do we know about the creature? There are many types of demons but I know a few
Cleo smiles at Helgarr's and Wabbit's exchange. A little pink on her cheeks at the attention.
And wonders where Maria might be. She shouldn't miss breakfast, being she's still in recover as she is. Then turns wide eyed when their fifth tablemate starts talking, a chill settling in up her spine. "Um... a barghest, Mr. Haladin and Ms. Sorn seem to think based on our description."
She'll relate what she was told
Brelin clears the table and begins to set her cards, one by one following the constellations
Barghest yes, I know of them
She closes her eyes and sets a few more cards while chanting a strange song.
When she opens her eyes and reads them, she pops her eyes open and speaks with what seems a different voice
Like a pup they start, yes? But the more they feed, the stronger and hungrier they get, like Mother Sanzaasss wanting to eat the world. Shalad’man umsalah!
Brelin has also heard the tales of Lamashtu rescuing the great barghests from Asmodeus and letting them live within the abyss. Though they look like beasts, they are quite intelligent. They are known to bargain with humans and hold up their end of the deal. Something that no other demon would ever do.
Wabbit hops onto the table getting a better vantage to look Helgarr in the eye...
how bout this... you don't go all BARBARIAN and I won't go HALFLING BERSERKER....deal???
The little halfling with balls of steel then smiles and shakes Helgarrs hand
wtf...
Wabbit jumps a bit a Wabbits sometimes do
and YOU must be Maria...Cleo has told me WARNED me actually so much about you
Wabbit hops onto the table getting a better vantage to look Helgarr in the eye...
how bout this... you don't go all BARBARIAN and I won't go HALFLING BERSERKER....deal???
The little halfling with balls of steel then smiles and shakes Helgarrs hand
Helgarr bursts into laughter - "Deal!" - following through with the hand shake - "In that case come sit down, and pick your poison - ale, beer, some wine?" - the woman nods, returning to her seat, and to her ale.
Maria eyes him for a moment then looks Cleo in the eye. Looks like he'll fit. She says as she grins cheekily at her friend. Furnok would approve.
"He would" - Helgarr raises her mug in a toast - "To Furnok"
Brelin clears the table and begins to set her cards, one by one following the constellations
Barghest yes, I know of them
She closes her eyes and sets a few more cards while chanting a strange song.
When she opens her eyes and reads them, she pops her eyes open and speaks with what seems a different voice
Like a pup they start, yes? But the more they feed, the stronger and hungrier they get, like Mother Sanzaasss wanting to eat the world. Shalad’man umsalah!
"Wait, wait, wait - who are you again?" - the barbarian girl suddenly seems to have realized there is someone else at the table - "I've seen you before around town... Do you have a name then?" - she inquires with a raised eyebrow.
You don't now me but I know you - Brelin turns to the barbarian - I've seen you all in my dreams and in my cards - she gestures to the whole group
The sheriff has come to seek my skills many times, altough he often dismisses them, the fool. But not this time though. As I warned him yet again of a danger in this region, he spoke of you.
I already knew that I had to come and the cards confirmed it. It so happens that I'm also looking for a demon myself
She then grins, loosing a bit of the misterious (and slighty crazy) look
Brelin is my name, daughter of Risa Magravi. At your service
Helgarr stares at the woman for a few seconds - "I am Helgarr. At yours" - she nods in reply - "And do not be so quick in dismissing Hemlock - he has done an amazing job in keeping all of Sandpoint safe" - the barbarian adds, eyebrow raised.
"Why do you seek a demon?" - is the obvious, immediate question.
Demons, Maria. Specifically barghests, which is what is under Thistletop. Wabbit is going with us to destroy the creature, and it looks like Brelin is too... hello, I'm Cleo by the way. the Halfling waves with a smile at the fortune teller. Oh, and Mr. Quink and Hannah might as well, but they won't be going in with us to fight the demon, because they are much smarter than us. she shakes her own head at her half attempt at a joke. We do welcome the help, we really do. realizing she is interrupted Helgarr's question she finally shuts up.
Wabbit studies this interesting group of women.....I think I'll call our band Wabbit and his Winsome Women... lol....i might need to keep that to myself ....Cleo might come after me with a frying pan..
do we have any idea of how many barghests we're up against.? A solitary one or do they run in packs
should i bring a leash? I've met some pretty cool halfling wolf riders... might be pretty cool to saddle the barghest up and take him for a ride before slaying it on account of well... being a demon
Magic weapons it seems. And we need to be wary of enchantments, as our friend found out. she answers Maria, before turning to Wabbit's question, frowning at a moment at her sudden urge to hit him with a frying pan and not knowing why. Just one.
Brelin looks at the group and hesitates a bit
Still too soon to share that much
Let's say it's a hobby of mine. I can bring along some occult knowledge and magical tricks that I think might be of some assistance.
One of the worst things about barghests is that they get stronger the more they feed so we don't really know what to expect.
You've fought it before?
We ran from it before. she admitted with a heavy helping of guilt. Yes they were strung out and barely able to move forward at that point, but still running meant Shelalu's suffering, even if they didn't knew it at the time.
She'll describe where is was and what happened. Which is partly covered in the the story so far under Malfeshnekor.
Brelin looks at the group and hesitates a bit
Still too soon to share that much
Let's say it's a hobby of mine. I can bring along some occult knowledge and magical tricks that I think might be of some assistance.
One of the worst things about barghests is that they get stronger the more they feed so we don't really know what to expect.
You've fought it before?
"I can't say it is the WORST hobby I have ever heard of, but it is definitely one of them" - Helgarr chuckles and shakes her head - "As long as you are not 'collecting' them or something like that..." - then turns a suspicious look on Brelin - "You aren't... Right?"
We ran from it before. she admitted with a heavy helping of guilt.
Some of us were carried.
"We had been through a LOT that day" - Helgarr nodded at Cleo and Maria - "It was the wise thing to do" - and took another big gulp on her ale.
Maria nods. As injured as we were, it wouldn't have been wise to continue.
Wabbit nods... sometimes a tactical retreat is necessary... as long as you get to come back and even the score
Brelin stares at her cards once more, set in a strange form on the table
It's the same again - she says to the group - Great perils await, but face them we must
She envelops them in a delicate scarf and packs then in her bag
Ready when you are
Cleo looks worriedly over at Brelin as she reads her cards. It couldn't have been great happiness, or great meals, or anything like that, could it she mutters, getting up with their newest companion. Wait, one second... she runs in the kitchens, coming back with a wrapped package that she says is salted fish, and a small jar of honey.
Now I'm ready!
Brelin stares at her cards once more, set in a strange form on the table
It's the same again - she says to the group - Great perils await, but face them we must
She envelops them in a delicate scarf and packs then in her bag
Ready when you are
"Always ready" - Helgarr nods, her hand drawing a symbol in the table to ward off evil spirits.
Cleo looks worriedly over at Brelin as she reads her cards. It couldn't have been great happiness, or great meals, or anything like that, could it
"Sign me up for that quest Cleo!" - Helgarr's mood lightens a tad - "Seems all the important rewards are included" - she smiles.
Cleo smiles at Helgarr's joke It's not for you, as you rightly know, Ms. Helgarr. But you can ask our crab friend if he'll share. She'll pack the food away, and then start out the door.
Though Grunyar wanted to come along for the battle, he's decided to stay with Shalelu to make sure that she doesn't get up to anything while the party moves out. The last thing the party needs is their elven friend jumping in to save her demonic acquaintance. Hannah and Mr. Quink also join the adventurers. Hannah is interested in seeing the landscape of thistletop as well as Mr. Crab, while Mr. Quink is far more interested in the history of Thistletop itself. He's brought so many books and pieces of parchment, as well as his cat companion who sleeps on his backpack.
The entire trip takes a couple of hours since a few need to travel on foot, especially through the woods, but eventually everyone makes it to the front of the Thistle wall. This area was created by the druidic goblin known as Gogmurt as a means of shelter and protection. The thistles themselves are large, thick, almost vine-like structures that prod anyone who is not careful. They stretch 10 feet into the air, and continue all the way to the edge of the cliff. There are many paths within the thistles, some of which go underground. They even have little clearings for various rooms, sheltered by the tense thicket. A few goblins are seen along the way, remnants of the Bird-cruncher tribe before they were assimilated by Gogmurt, now chief of Thistletop. They do not stop the adventurers by any means, but they do stay out of the way as everyone passes through. The thistles lead to the edge of the cliff, where a rope bridge carries the group to the nearby island of Thistletop. This island is more or less egg shaped, rising out of the water suddenly for roughly 20-30 feet. At the top, a wooden shanty-town has been built for the goblins, with dirt floors and all sorts of gross goblin motifs.