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During the small hours before cock-crow, the all too common light rain began to fall over Sandpoint. The pattering of the rain melded with the sound of lapping waves and the clanging of a single bell on a boat moored in the harbour. The night sky was brimming with low-hanging clouds, muting the stars and filtering the glow of a waning, half-lit moon.
Just before dawn, the rain suddenly stopped, only to be replaced by mist; its gauzy tendrils winding their way through town, over harbour and along coastline. It grew thicker and not much could be seen beyond ten feet; even wrapping the parasol-shaped, half-open crown pines and spiny pepperwoods along the bluff so they were eerily silhouetted against the sky. The mist made the ruins of The Old Light perched atop the cliff look otherworldly and detached from the rest of town.
Upon the crowing of the town cockerel heralding in the dawn, life began to stir in Sandpoint and smoke rose faintly from the stone chimneys. This signalled the start of the working day for some of the dedicated citizens of Sandpoint. The blanketing fog covered the town for two hours following dawn and then began to grow lighter and finally dispersed altogether. The wind and temperature were a mild cool for early morning; yet anyone with the knowledge of the area and a skill predicting weather could tell that the day ahead would be another lovely summer’s day with bright sunshine and moderate humidity.
Just over the southern bridge entrance into Sandpoint, overlooking the Turandarok River, sat a large wooden building on stone foundations; its wood-shingled roof steeply pitched and featuring an imposing rusty iron dragon decoration that served as both iconic feature and lightning rod. This was the oldest inn in Sandpoint - “The Rusty Dragon”- owned and run by Ameiko Kaijitsu. Locals, visitors and patrons alike began to gather as the morning progressed; Ameiko greeting each person with a warm smile and a cheerful “Good morning”. The adventurers renting the small guest chambers began to stir, rise and set to their morning ablution and other duties before venturing down the wooden staircase to the inn's common room . As the party sat down at their usual table, they observed a small group of locals and unfamiliar faces/visitors congregated around the wall-sized old “Help Wanted” sign by the bar. Some of the voices were slightly raised and heated, and, among them was the town’s Shoanti sheriff, Balor Hemlock; in his hand was a yellowing parchment that he was readying to pin to the board covered with various want-ads, warrants, ransoms and other desired services. He seemed to be answering some questions or attempting to calm the small crowd.
Before anything of true value could be heard from the direction of the notice board, the party spied the elderly and quiet Halfling maid, Bethana Corwin, slowly climbing the wooden staircase to the guest rooms above as Ameiko approached the table; warm light streaming in through a nearby small glass window, “Good morning, my friends. I hope you slept well. We have coffee, green tea, raspberry mead (sweet honeyed wine), Turandarok Reserve (spicy apple cider) and ale. Today we are serving cheese blossoms (spicy cheese curd stuffed artichoke hearts), curried salmon with fragrant coconut rice and a spicy fish, mussel and green vegetable dark broth soup with thick wheat flour noodles. What would you like to order?”
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Flori looks unusually tired this morning when she sits down at the table, with circles under her eyes and a dishevelled bun that she put together hastily.
"Dargu, I could hear your snoring down the corridor all night." Flori says, with a wink, not entirely clear if she is making a joke or not.
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When Ameiko comes over, she looks up at her with a tired smile.
”Mornin’ Ameiko, feels like it wasn’t two hours since I was working last night. I could just devour that salmon – I’m famished! A strong coffee is probably in order too. I'm sure many of us would love a cup?” She says, looking around at her companions.
"Maybe you heard me earlier, but you've been in bed twice as long as me. I notice one of the mares was a bit wonky on the hoof yesterday, so I checked her shoes early this morning after mucking the stalls. Sure enough, I had to run to grumpy old Das Korvut and ask about some horseshoes. I just now feel clean enough to enjoy my coffee."
Dargu seems clean and put together enough, for a rough and tumble sort of fellow at least. He sits leaning back on his chair, a plate of the salmon finished in front of him and his third steaming mug of coffee in hand.
"Whats on the agenda today? Anyone planning on getting in trouble? Maybe wanna take a look at some lots with me?"
Zyren smiles
I'll have eggs and hashbrowns please. I don't want coffee. Maybe some fruit juice, or water if you don't have that.
After Ameiko goes back to get coffee for everyone, Zyren says more quietly
I heard there was an audition over at the Sandpoint Theatre today. Don't tell Ameiko, because she doesn't like the guy that runs it, but I think I am going to go over and try out. I love singing and telling stories here, and will continue to do so when I can, don't get me wrong, but I think I want to try doing a show over there as well.
Relaxing back in her chair, Dora sighs with content, "I don't have any work lined up for today for once brother!"
Double checking that Ameiko isn't in earshot, she shoots a genuine smile at Zyren.
"Zyren, that sounds like a fantastic opportunity - you'll get it I'm sure. Maybe you could practise with somebody beforehand? I'm free if you want to try - but I don't know much about performing."
"What about you guys, you up to much today?" She says, forwarding Dargu's question to the rest of the table.
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From a side table, Akatsu was fighting to stay awake. The shy monk - and younger brother of Ameiko - worked most nights at the Sandpoint Boneyard, and his mornings were always a fight between yawning and curiously people watching, before finally convincing himself to stand up and help Ameiko.
Not tall but obviously bulk built, the young Human had long black hair and Tien features that would remind anyone of Ameiko. He had, however, burn scars on his arms that - combined with his natural social awkwardness, and the Pharasma holy symbol hanging in his neck - gave him an unsettling presence. Despite all that, when engaged he was somewhat warm and optimistic, and was surrounded by a certain aura of trust.
He shook his head to Zyren, as agreeing to keep her "secret". He didn't much know the people behind the theater, but knew to follow Ameiko's intuition on her likes and dislikes. Yet, he saw no harm on the audition and the playful escapade sounded joyful to him, as much to bring an awkward smile.
I bet that if you don't find trouble, it will find you, Dargu! - he finally broke his silence, engaging Flori's brother, the fighter.
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"Hey, I don't go asking for it, you know. Its just that when you're big and tough and don't get sauced, the drunk farmers seem to want to pick a fight with ya. At least Ameiko keeps the horse trough out back relatively clean to sober them up. "
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Laughing at his cousins' banter, Dominic blows on another cup of steaming hot coffee. Dragu, always looking for trouble, aren't you? You better watch out for the crazy ones today for sure! the young Varisian smiles.
Zyren, that's a fantastic opportunity, any idea what the performance is? Once you get in, we'll all go see it for you! He whispers in a conspiratorial tone.
The young Varisian leans back, catching his ridiculous hat from falling off his head when he does so, and placing in on his knee instead. His clean cut look and not-yet dirty work clothes on his body fitting him well. A holy symbol of Desna peeks out from behind his shirt, and a Desnan tattoo of a butterfly adorns his right forearm.
I agreed to help Battlehorn get a delivery of lumber over to the Cathedral using his wagon. Seems like wagon drivers are in short supply and we need to pay off the wood for the floor we're supposed to pick up next week for the house. If you want to help Dargu, I can go with you to look at some lots, and figure out if we can build you something there? I've just got to get my armor on to go to the sawmill and I'd be ready to go. Dominic finishes by scraping some salmon off his plate and stuffing it into his mouth.
Flori, if you aren't torturing poor Zyren with your singing, you are more than welcome to help lift lumber... Dominic grins.
Then he reverently withdraws his family harrow deck, which Niska taught him to use, cuts the deck once, and flips a card.
The Vision
The Vision, madness and inspiration for the day. Will I run into a madman, or merely have a flash of genius? Else will someone else have a flash of genius? I must watch for this sign.
Dominic carefully puts the Harrow deck back in its cloth wrapping, before reverentially putting it into his pouch for the day. He quickly belts his starknife to his belt, and sets out to find his family and friends in town.
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"Torturing! What are you saying Dom?" Flori says, over-the-top feigning shock at his remark.
"I suppose you're right... I might have to leave you to your audition on your own Zyren before I hurt your ears!" She says with a big cheesy grin.
"I could lend a hand with this house though - I want to have a good look at it before you get started!"
Finally giving in and craning her neck at the commotion in the corner, Flori looks intensely curious.
"What is going on over there anyway? Hemlock seems to have his hands full."
Zyren eats while listening to everyone, pleased that everyone is supportive of her idea.
When Flori asks her about practicing she says
I might need help running lines once I get a part... or I suppose *if* I get a part, but for the audition, I just need to do a reading, so I should be fine for today. ... and you wouldn't hurt my ears. I'm sure your voice is great. Maybe you should demonstrate for us?
She smiles back at Akatsu when he smiles at her.
Zyren, that's a fantastic opportunity, any idea what the performance is? Once you get in, we'll all go see it for you!
I think it is called "An Angelic Conspiracy" or something like that. I'm sure they will want an Aasimar as the lead if they can get one, but I am hoping to be able to play the demonic best friend or some other support part.
She realizes that she is talking too loud and says a little quieter
Err, I mean, even a small part would probably be fun.
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Dominic shrugs back at Flori, Hey Flower, I just call 'em like I see 'em. Remember that night with the whiskey where you thought you could lead the whole tavern in "Rolling fields of Taldor"? That was pretty funny, granted I probably shouldn't have been on the tabletop trying to clog along to it...
Turning his attention to Zyren, That's nonsense, I'm sure you can do just as good as anyone they bring in! Unlike the rest of us, you can actually sing. We'll probably be at the house later it sounds like, drop by after the audition and we'll show you around the place.
Turning to the monk, Akatsu, I know you probably have to get to the boneyard, but come by later in the day to the house if you aren't working, we'll have a campfire in the yard, and Zyren can regale us of her audition! I promise, no clogging.
Finally, looking over his shoulder to the corner where Flori indicated, Huh, I don't know, probably more trouble with something, Hemlock's always looking for strong swords to go goblin hunting or whatever. Dargu, you know anything about what's going on over there?
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The party was already sitting, engaged in friendly banter around a delicious breakfast, when Radjiik comes downstairs. It wasn’t ordinarily his habit to get out of bed this late, but since Sandru had left him behind to get on another caravan trip on his own, he hadn’t been particularly keen on getting up in the morning.
“You can stay at Sandpoint for a while,” Sandru had suggested. “That’ll leave you some time to figure out where you want to go next, since you haven’t really decided. It will do you some good to unwind a little, perhaps get to know some folks, stop spending all your time by yourself. The Rusty Dragon has pretty cheap rooms, and I’m sure Ameiko would be glad to have you over.”
“But what about the Sczarnis?” Radjiik had protested.
“We’ve been out there for months without as much as catching a glimpse of them. I think you’re pretty safe. Besides, kid -and I mean that in the nicest way possible-, they’re not what has me worried about you right now.”
He never should have admitted to being bored on the trip. He should have been relieved that it was uneventful, even if the most exciting thing to happen on a weeks-long journey was a couple of peacocks escaped from a nearby farm planting themselves in the middle of the road and refusing to move, perching themselves on top of the wagons’ roofs when Sandru’s men tried to drive them away. They had to be shooed off when a broom, and a lot of patience. They had somehow managed to look offended about it.
”Good morning,” Radjiik greets the group. He sits down near Flori and Dargu, and orders the salmon and a black coffee, which he slowly eats while attentively listening to the others’ conversation.
As it happened, Sandru had a deceptively precise idea of which “folks” frequented The Rusty Dragon, and they all knew and got along with each other. Some were familiar -Flori and Dargu he knew to be often part of the caravan staff, and Sandru had once spent an entire evening drinking and laughing with the man with a butterfly tattoo. He hadn’t felt jealous. At all.
Zyren and Akatsu, he didn’t know so well. The former he knew to be a singer who spent a lot of time with Koya, and the latter to be Ameiko’s sibling. He had often seen them talk together at the Rusty Dragon, always retired in a private corner, making it clear that they didn’t want anyone to join in the conversation. Apparently, he had survived some sort of a brutal assault. He tried not to look at his scars too much.
Overall, the only being he had managed to befriend over the course of a month was a female stray cat often hanging around The Rusty Dragon, and for whom he frequently saved bits of meats and fish from his meals. Originally fearful, she now ran to the Shoanti boy who was so liberal with food, chin scratches and tummy rubs, meowing loudly for attention. His only plans for the afternoon was to spend some time with her, and- okay, he was starting to see Sandru’s point.
“Flori, if you aren't torturing poor Zyren with your singing, you are more than welcome to help lift lumber.”
“I’m available, if you need help,” he offers unusually spontaneously, even if the thought of spending an entire day with almost-strangers makes him ill-at-ease. For good countenance, he cuts what’s left of his salmon into little bits, that he wraps carefully in a napkin.
“What is going on over there anyway? Hemlock seems to have his hands full."
Radjiik turns around to observe the crowd surrounding Balor, the only other Shoanti he knows to live at Sandpoint. His mere presence at the Rusty Dragon is unusual, and Radjiik has never seen such a crowd so agitated in such a normally peaceful town.
“Maybe Bethana would know,” he suggests. Thinking quickly, he downs his coffee, and gestures to the halfling maid for a refill. When she comes, he thanks her and asks: “Excuse me, do you know what’s going on?”
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With a bemused smile upon her face at Zyren's meal selection (since technically the tavern had started its noon day meal preparations) and having only heard from a few of the members around the table, Ameiko merely nodded with a smile and made her way into the kitchen to prepare the food. She and a young, pretty serving girl Ameiko recently hired named Jilin, returned with a large pot of dark, strong coffee, a jug of raspberry mead and a jug of fresh, cool water and the salmon and rice for all except for Zyren, whom she made a thick, fluffy omelette laden with diced tomatoes and green peppers with a side of thin-cut fried potatoes finely dusted with a spice mix of red chili pepper, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, ground ginger, orange peel and ground seaweed. She was, after all, renowned for spicy and exotic dishes and rarely made simple, bland food. Smiling, she uttered "Enjoy your meal!" before heading back to the bar. Jilin gave a small, shy smile, her blue eyes lingering a moment on Radjiik, before moving to another table to take their orders.
“Maybe Bethana would know,” he suggests. Thinking quickly, he gestures to the halfling maid. When she comes, he asks: “Excuse me, do you know what’s going on?”
Having just descended from the rooms above, ready to take fresh water from the kitchen to replenish the jugs in each of the smaller chambers, Bethana noted the Shoanti among Ameiko's brother's company gesturing for her to come to their table. The talk around the notice board was still in full swing and there were a number of patrons in the common room waiting on food or eating. Bethana made her way, hesitantly around the floor, the group following the bobbing motion of her silver white hair, to the company of six, "Good day to you," she acknowledged them all; her voice nervous and quiet as always; a faint flush across to her cheeks.
Upon the Shoanti adventurer's question, her wrinkled brow furrowed a little deeper and with a timid backward glance toward the sheriff and small group, she turned back to them and answered quietly, "Them pesky goblins struck again on the Lost Coast Road. Last eve, a returnin' rider was set upon by the Licktoads flingin' their explodin' firecrackers. His horse spooked, reared, threw him, breakin' his arm. Goblins tossed more crackers in his face, burnin' and temporarily blindin' him, givin' them time to run off with brimmin' sacks. The third in a matter of days. The Sheriff's addressin' complaints," and with that, your group not having heard so many words come out of the Halfling maid's mouth before this day, Bethana turned and made directly for the kitchen. Having heard Rajiik's request, Jilin rushed over with a second pot of hot coffee, placing it by Radjiik before moving off again toward a couple of male patrons by the bar.
Not long upon the heels of the serving girl, Sheriff Balor Hemlock made a steady course for their table; the voices by the bar now lowered and less agitated. "Morning. I suppose you've heard of the latest attack. The Licktoads have become dangerously brave and their firework attacks have grown bolder. The town leaders have put out the call for goblin exterminators. Since this has become a serious goblin threat, I've revived Sandpoint's goblin bounty, pointing to the parchment he recently pinned to the notice board, "The town'll pay ten gold pieces for every somewhat fresh goblin ear delivered to the Town Hall and an additional three hundred gold pieces for the group who can bring in the head of of the Licktoad's leader, Chief Gutwad. You interested?"
Zyren's eyes go wide at the mention of the money, and going on a real adventure sounds kind of exciting.
She looks around the table, wondering if the others wanted to go. If so, she could probably audition another time...
Blanching somewhat at the mention of ears and heads, Dominic looks around the table, Umm sheriff, that's some grisly work you are asking for, Does the rider need medical attention? he gulps.
Looking to his comrades, he allows the space for them to answer, although the thought of a full coin purse isn't totally anathema to him . That's a very generous bounty you are offering! That would help pay for the floors and new window sashes in the house...
"Goblins again, eh? Sheriff, I'm down to help out however I can, especially if it means coin in my pocket and fewer stupid gobbos kicking around town. Sis, Zyren, the rest of you, how do you feel about earning some pay? I figure our little crew here should be able to handle them proper like. "
Dargu finishes off his meal like a professional guardsmen, shoveling it in and downing his beverage on top. He stands and heads upstairs to grab his stuff.
"Im gonna go get ready. See ya outside in like 5."
I'm in. I can audition another time.
Zyren runs up to her room to grab her things, and comes back down holding her bow.
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Dominic looks around the table, Umm sheriff, that's some grisly work you are asking for, Does the rider need medical attention? he gulps.
Belor scratched his chin thoughtfully, "Grisly or not, we need to keep the town and its visitors safe from harm."
Letting his hand fall by his wayside, the sheriff answered the Desnan cleric, "The injured rider was taken to Father Zantus last night and has been taken care of. He's currently resting in the chapel's infirmary."
Looking around the table, he continued, "It's good that you're eager to help, but there are a few things you need to know before you go off to find the goblins. I hope you'll heed my words. Brinestump Marsh may not be a large as the Mushfens, but the swamp is remarkably dense and tangled. It's easy to lose one's way in that place. No one's drawn a detailed map of the marsh because there's not much of value within - at least not to anyone besides fishermen and herbalists. There's someone who does know his way around the marsh - an eccentric old Halfling named Walthus Proudstump. He considers himself the "warden" of the swamp; so his advice would be most reliable. You can find his shack at the end of the New Fish Trail. Heed this warning, never venture far from this trail as it winds through the northern portion of the fen."
Having overheard some of the sheriff's words to her brother and his companions, Ameiko moved back to their table, giving practical advice of her own, "Recently, others have attempted to sort out the Licktoads, but nothing has been heard from them in the three days since they entered Brinestump Marsh. Make a proper plan, take the necessary precautions and have each other's backs. There are deadly things in the swamp." Ameiko's eyes strayed to her younger brother, Akatsu, and meaningfully lingered.
The sheriff nodded in firm agreement and added, "Last night another round of colourful explosions burst over the wetlands to the south. Some think the goblins are readying for an attack. Be careful. If you wish to learn some more about Brinestump, best speak with the fishermen down by the wharf." The man gave another firm nod and then he headed to the doors of the Rusty Dragon and quickly exited.
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Flori ponders the proposition for a minute, but when Dargu and Zyren are positive about the situation, she also agrees.
"Why not? I always need to add to my saving pot and if it helps out the town whilst we're at it then its a win-win! Just let me go get ready"
She races down the rest of her meal in seconds, not one to leave food on her plate, and then heads upstairs to get ready.
A short while later she emerges again downstairs fully equipped in her usual caravan outfit; studded leather armour, a longbow on her back, her trusty eastern blade at her side and her hair tied up into a ponytail with a yellow ribbon.
Flori nods and thanks the Sheriff for the information before turning back to the others.
"We should go and talk to Father Zantus and those Fishermen about what they know before we head out. Numbers of attackers, location and the like."
"Ameiko, if Koya and Sandru get back while we are gone, would you let them know that we're fine and that we won't be too long?"
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While initially at his initial silence, Akatsu was very much considering go hunting goblins; it'd be nice to hone his skills, and these pests were something that really had to be dealt with. Plus - the coins would be welcome. However, when Ameiko approached with her advice, he couldn't help but let his eyes cross with hers.
In his core, he chilled a bit; despite not being the same child as more than a decade ago, when they got separated, he still feared not seeing her again, after all his struggle to find his sibling. Yet, he was too young to retire. And death - he considered - is natural. Cold, inevitable - but not good or evil. It's just death.
You honor us with your wisdom, sister. How can you be so young, yet so wise? - he finally spoke, measuring his words, but opening his usual optimistic smile - We should take precautions. Flori's idea to gather information is excellent... These might be stronger tools than the sharpest of blades.
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Radjiik grimaces in disgust at the thought of cutting off a goblin's ears, or head, but the threat is an important one. No one would wish Sandpoint to stand in the way of a goblin tribe.
He stands up as the group heads for their respective rooms, suddenly remembers the pot of coffee he ordered, pours himself half a cup, finishes it as fast as he can, takes a few steps towards the stairs, before hurrying back to the table to grab the nearly forgotten salmon he had saved for the cat. He then heads upstairs to put on his light armour and his backpack, not forgetting to take his weapons with him.
"We can head for the chapel first," he suggests to Flori.
"Ameiko, if Koya and Sandru get back while we are gone, would you let them know that we're fine and that we won't be too long?"
In lowered voice to match Flori's, Ameiko replied, "I will pass the message along. I expect them back any day now," hoping to reassure the lovely ranger girl.
You honor us with your wisdom, sister. How can you be so young, yet so wise? - he finally spoke, measuring his words, but opening his usual optimistic smile ...
"Experience, not wisdom, little brother," giving him a playful wink.
Looking at the company, she sincerely addressed them, "I wish you luck. Finish those Licktoads!"
She cast one last look at her brother, giving him a reassuring smile before their party prepared to leave the Rusty Dragon.
Standing outside the Inn wearing his armor and strapped with blades and javelins, Dargu waves to the others as they exit.
"So, where to first? Do we need to provision? I've got a few days worth of travel food packed up, and some coin if we need more. How about torches, oil, lamps and the like? Gobbos see in the dark, so they might be hiding in some cave or tunnel or something like that."
Sighing, Well, I suppose that I too, am in. I'll need a few moments to collect my things, lets meet back here? I've got some torches prepped back at the house, but it would be a lot for me to carry them all the way there.
Dominic wanders off to the old house and grabs his armor and crossbow, he quickly looks over his pack before shouldering it, then reconsiders, dropping the iron pot and bedroll off on the floor. Darn things are too heavy to bring on this one.
Dominic returns to the outside of the Inn, his armor almost pristine, and a crossbow hung from a strap on his right side. I'm ready now, to the Temple?
I have a light spell that can help if we have to go underground, but it only lights up about a 40 foot area, so some other help might be a good idea. I think Dom knows the same spell. It's a pretty basic one.
Zyren also noted Dargu's mention of rations. She didn't have enough money for regular rations, but she made a note to buy some wandermeal cakes on the way out of town.
If we're going underground, a rope might be useful as well. Does anyone have one? My last one got ruined, along with my armor, during the last caravan run, and I haven't had the money to replace them yet.
I've got a rope back at the house, I've been using it for blocking, but we can take it down quick, if you'd like to carry it? Its pretty heavy for me. And, yes, I can completely cast Light today. Dominic offers.
Thanks Dominic. I'll carry it along just in case we need it.
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As soon as the group is outside, Radjiik looks around distractively, trying to spot a cream-coloured she-cat who might be interested in some leftover salmon. He doesn't pay close attention to what the party is saying before Dominic mentions a rope:
"Wait, I have a rope," he says, taking a silk rope out of his backpack. "I've also got two pitons, a couple of torches... Er, some rations. But not much else."
"Okay. Good stuff, everyone. If its too heavy to carry easily, I can haul some stuff around. My armor is gonna slow me down in a sprint anyways, so a few more pounds here and there ain't gonna make a difference. Everyone got some kind of ranged weapon? If nothing else, grab a sling and I will stop and pick up some bullets. Nothing worse than someone sitting back behind some cover and you don't got anything to shoot back with."
Zyren holds up her bow, indicating that she has a ranged weapon.
Akatsu organizes his belongings and helps the group with their preparations. He also has a rope, which he shows, silently, before placing it back in his backpack.
As the group finishes up eating and starts to move towards the temple, Akatsu's companions can notice he doesn't really carry weapons, just his digging and masonry tools. It's quite obvious Ameiko's younger brother doesn't have many possessions, but it seems he also simply doesn't know how to use fancier weaponry.
When Dargu asks about ranged attacks, the young monk gives him a smile.
Hopefully we will be fine. Even if I have to hide behind you, I'm sure my words of stimulation will be as useful as throwing rocks! - he speaks in a joyful manner.
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As soon as everyone has finished their supply gathering, Flori suggests they head to the chapel first to see Father Zantus and ask him a few questions if he is well enough to answer.
"Good morning Father Zantus, I hope that you're feeling well this morning. We heard that you got in a pickle with some goblins?"
The party, geared up and gathered outside the Rusty Dragon, made their way to the north part of town via River Street to Church Street and came upon the largest and newest building in Sandpoint. There, stood, the impressive cathedral made of stone and glass where worship of the six gods: Abadar, Desna, Erastil, Gozreh, Sarenrae, and Shelyn could be enjoyed under one roof.
At the door, Desnan acolyte, Priest Lovus Vantikin, escorted the party to Father Zantus' office, knocked and announced them.
"Good morning Father Zantus, I hope that you're feeling well this morning. We heard that you got in a pickle with some goblins?"
"Good morning, and, welcome to you, good friends," a warm, welcoming smile lighting the chief cleric's face. "I am well and hale, as you can see, although I am not the one who was set upon by the goblins last eve. The rider you seek is presently resting in the infirmary, if you wish to speak with him? Such an awful business these goblins and their fireworks. Be ready for challenges, my friends!"
The party is led to a reclined man on a clean single cot; his eyes closed as if sleeping. A ruggedly handsome man, in his early 20's, tall for his feet hang a little past the end of the cot, with longish black hair. His eyes open and they are a deep grey and appear somewhat disoriented still.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, Marten. My friends, here, wish to know about the goblin attack on you last eve. Do you feel up to speaking with them?" The rider gave a brisk nod and pushed himself in an upright position on the cot.
"What is it you wish to know?" His tone wasn't unfriendly, but neither was it entirely well-disposed. His grey gaze took in the group as if attempting to gauge their intention.
Zyren moves up to address the man.
Hi Marten. My name is Zyren. I know what you went through is hard, and we don't want to tire you out after such an ordeal. It's only that we plan to go after these goblins and make sure the attacks end. Can you tell us anything that might help? How were they armed, where did they come from... anything at all that might make a difference?
"My apologies Father, good news that you are fit and well though. I must have misheard the Sheriff. We will absolutely talk to the rider if possible? Please do lead the way."
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Flori gives the rider a warm and sympathetic smile and pours him a glass of water from the jug on the table.
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"Everyone got some kind of ranged weapon?"
Radjiik simply gestures to his shortbow and his quiver full of arrows.
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The cathedral is as huge as it is beautiful, and, although he's not a believer, Radjiik takes his time admiring its stained-glass windows and altars dedicated to the gods. Intimidated by the rider's wounds and his clear desire not to be disturbed, he lets Zyren and Flori handle the situation without interfering.
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Marten's eyes strangely rested on Zyren for a few moments and then Flori as if he was trying to focus real hard on their faces. He paid little heed to the silent, watchful males for now.
Father Zantus cleared his throat and then added, "They only wish to keep the roads safe for travellers, Marten. Anything you tell them will help them achieve their objective. Come on, lad, speak up now." The Desnan high priest's voice was calm and encouraging.
Marten sighed and then explained what he'd encountered the night before, "The sun was setting when I was riding along the Lost Coast Road, a few miles out from Sandpoint. The gobos ran out from the brush separating the road from the fen. Armed with lit/burning fireworks, they tossed them at my horse. There were only three that I could see; there were probably more hiding in wait, but I don't know for sure. The sound and burst of blinding fireworks panicked my horse, who reared, throwing me to the ground. I landed so hard I heard the bone snap. The thick cloud of smoke made my eyes water, worse when they tossed a cracker straight at my face and blinded me. That's when they grabbed two sacks full of leathers and furs, and ran off into the fen, I think. If the horse hadn't been spooked, I might've been able to fight them off - at the very least trampled them." Again, he sighed and rubbed self-consciously at his eyes, even though they looked like they had been well-tended to by the clerics of the cathedral.
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"Sounds like a classic ambush, though how the gobbos got their hands on those fireworks is a problem. Any chance those sacks or gear have a very distinct smell? Maybe we can borrow or rent a tracking dog to help find the little monsters."
Dargu pats the man on his shoulder and smiles at him.
"If we can get your stuff back, we will, don't worry Marten."
Dominic sits back, content to let his cousins and Zyren talk to Marten. He looks at Radjiik and enjoys the youth's admiration for the stained glass windows in the cathedral.
Dominic will hang back by father Zantus, Thank you Father for taking care of this man. And for your help with letting us talk to him. I was supposed to drop off some lumber here today for Battlehorn, but it looks like that's on the back burner as they say.
"Sounds like a classic ambush, though how the gobbos got their hands on those fireworks is a problem. Any chance those sacks or gear have a very distinct smell? Maybe we can borrow or rent a tracking dog to help find the little monsters."
At this, Dominic speaks up, Flori can probably follow the tracks right? She's a good hunter, and goblins can't be that sneaky in the woods; at least not compared to a deer. I do think we should hurry, as it is getting on to lunchtime now; and I wouldn't want to be out overnight with angry goblins out there.
Once the party agrees to head out, Maybe we should head to the docks and see if anyone can give us a rough map of the marsh? Or any information at all really. I need to swing by Battlehorn's on the way though and just let him know I'll be heading out of town today for this, I'm sure he'll be fine with it.
After stopping by the Carpenter's guild, Dominic will join the party at the docks to see what they can learn.
Akatsu kept his silence as his companions spoke. He liked the overall idea of tracking the creatures and felt the ranger was the ideal person to do so; however, as Dominic finished, he interjected.
I think it's a good idea to try to track the goblins, and as fast as possible, before they ambush someone else. - he said, tapping his head on his chin as he considered the fact they had the fireworks with them - With that said, we need to be expeditions, but sneaky. I wouldn't want us to be trapped either.
Flori nods her head at the suggestion. "Thanks Dom, that's nice of you to say, I can definitely try that. I wouldn't say no to some help though!"
Flori follows her companions to the docks, whilst running through everything she can remember about tracking that she learned on the few hunts she had been on outside of town.
Zyren nods at Dominic's idea, and goes with everyone to the docks to see what they can find out.
Flori does her best to help Zyren find out what she can by pulling on connections with the dockworkers that she recognises from her shifts in the taverns.
"Any chance those sacks or gear have a very distinct smell? Maybe we can borrow or rent a tracking dog to help find the little monsters."
At the man's touch upon his shoulder, Marten gave a slight shrug and answered, "They wouldn't smell any different to other sacks of furs and hides, I'd imagine. I've had the sacks for awhile now, so they could smell like me and my horse, too? Not sure if that'll help you track these gobos. As to bringing back my wares, those gobos may have already put their stink on them, so no need bother. Pity, the pelts were rather thick and soft and some of my best."
"...goblins can't be that sneaky in the woods; at least not compared to a deer. I do think we should hurry, as it is getting on to lunchtime now; and I wouldn't want to be out overnight with angry goblins out there."
Father Zantus inclined his head in acceptance of Dominic's words of thanks, and added, "Just a word to the wise, lad, these are no ordinary woodlands and the swamp has been home to the Licktoad tribe for a very long time. It would be folly to underestimate them."
"I think it's a good idea to try to track the goblins, and as fast as possible, before they ambush someone else."
Zantus glanced at Ameiko's younger brother and addressed him and the others, "It rained throughout the night, so I'm uncertain how many tracks you will find, if they struck Marten around sunset. I'm not doubting the skill of your trackers, nay, yet be mindful the rain may have washed some, if not all, traces of them away. As we Desnan's say, Follow a hunch, but bear the consequences. Good fortune, my friends. It'll rain again tonight and the fog comes in heavier after sun fall."
And with that, Father Zantus showed the party out of the chapel and they set forth for the harbour/docks.
Untangling fishing nets and cleaning boats, the party crossed paths with three grizzled, seasoned fisherman and Zyren and Flori began making inquiries into Brinestump Marsh and the Licktoad goblins.
The first fisherman answered, "Your first time to Brinestump, eh? It's well-passed tangled and overgrown, infested with all kinds of critters. Careful where you step and how much you carry with ya. My advice's not to wander off - stick to the New Fish Trail and ye can't go wrong. Err, spottin' details inside the marsh can be tricky as the trees grow real tall and thick-like. And the fog's fullest at dawn and dusk. All the navigating can make one tired and frustrated."
Another piped in, "Bring repellent for the bugs - they sure have a bite. And, 'ware the Soggy River Monster. Many a tale has been told of the pale monster dressed in rags with legs that bend like a dog's. Its hunting ground be the shores of the Soggy River and we've had at least five disappearances in the past year."
The third chuckled before adding, "Old goblin bounty back up and runnin'? Once the Licktoads numbered over three dozen. Who knows how many gobos there are now. If you need help through the muddy bogs, then best seek out the halfling warden, Walthus Proudstump. The New Fish Trail leads from the Lost Coast Road directly to Walthus’ shack in the swamp. You after a map? No one’s ever made a useful map of Brinestump — as there’s been no need for one as nothing of value's found there. You won't miss the weathered marker - travel down the Lost Coast Road; it's roughly six miles southwest from town. It'll take you a good two hours on foot, if you're walking at a steady pace. Brinestump Marsh is just over two miles long and less than one mile wide. Like my friend's told you - best seek out Walthus - he's better than any map."
Flori thanks the dockworkers for their help and warnings.
She waits until they have walked away from the dock until talking about it much further.
"You know, its already midday and I'd rather have as much daylight as possible. What do you all think about heading out at sunrise in the morning? Gives us a few hours to get some sword practise in - or whatever it is everyone does. The issue is that the tracks will have been further distorted, but I don't think they will be much use anyway if it rained that much last night. If we head out at the crack of dawn we could find Walthus Proudstump in good time."
"We could do that, or we set out now and head to the marsh edge, then camp for the night. If we're lucky, the goblins come to us and we can snag one. If not, we're right there at first light and can maximize.our daylight in the marsh itself. Just a thought, though, I'm game for either way."
"So typical brother - you just can't wait to get going! I can go with your plan, it sounds like a good one. We would be much closer to get started first thing. Anyone else have a preference?"
Well, the fisherman did say that the fog was worst at dawn and dusk, so going in the morning it might be harder to see... but maybe the new fish trail is clear enough?
We should go now, and then when we get there decide depending on the conditions whether to camp at the edge or push on to see this Walthus guy before dusk. Going all the way to his place might be best, but then again, he might not have room for all of us to stay the night there.
Where can I get some bug repellant though? I don't have any of that, and the one fisherman said that we need it.