GM Euan's Rise of the Runelords (Inactive)

Game Master Euan

"Oh, well, yeah, these business in Thisletorp turned to be quite profitable. If you ever have something like this, I would be grateful to join Seamus on this" Izomandakus nods and looks also to Kast "Of course under supervision of your trusted guard Phaerd"

During the couple of days that passed before the sheriff arrived, Izomandakus would craft a grease and mage armor scrolls.
-25 gp

”Two squads are coming..."

Kast visibly relaxes as help is on the way, and it's not his shoulders anymore, but then tenses up, as he realizes, that over the past two weeks, he's managed to get more ready, and more armed/armored than he has over the past two year. He can finally go to Lastwall.

Become a knight.
Fight for the cause.
Live and die perfectly.

"So you won't be needing us as much, eh Sheriff?" Kast asks with a smile, making sure things are returning to normal.

Huh, I guess I better start making plans.

When the Sheriff says they are going to be hanged, Izomandakus grimaces "I know, they were part of all the attack to Sandpoint, but other than Lonjiku, they really did not kill anyone and the goblins would have probably killed the same people even without their participation. It kind of hurts, I do not know what Ameiko will tell you after talking with her brother, but I would ask if their punishment can be commuted to something else more useful, able to increase the richness of our people, like for example to serve for life at the Storval Cliff with the Black Arrows defending our borders from the wild dangers at the other side"

”Well, as you say, Orik may be a mere mercenary caught with a bad boss, and Tsuto may have had a bad father - but they both participated in an attack on Sandpoint that killed far too many and caused grief for all!” His voice booms a bit and fills the small room.

After a moment’s pause, and a bit calmer, he continues, ”However, I shall certainly make your desires known to the Magnimar court.”

When Izomandakus took a breath, Seamus, wanting to keep the group together as long as possible, asks. "Is there something else we can do to help? I mean I don't really want to have a shift on the watch or anything. Or answer to that moron Warren. But I mean something ..." He paused for a moment trying to think of the right word. "irregular?" Biting his tongue, resisting the urge to add 'where we can make a lot of money.'

”Oh, I have something in mind, but I need to talk to the Mayor, and I simply haven’t had the time. Perhaps tomorrow morning.”

”If that’s it folks, I’ll have to bid you good bye. I still need to interrogate the prisoners - see if either has anything to say in their defense, and I still need to talk to Ameiko. I’ll reach out to you again tomorrow and we can discuss things further. Sometime in the morning I suppose.”

You're free for another evening to yourselves, but anticipate a summons by the Sheriff sometime before noon. Any particular plans?

"Ah well, that's all then!" as the group leaves the Guards Barracks the boy comments "We shall think about selling what we found at the goblins lair and before. I can help asking the people I know in town if they are interested to buy. We will have to bring the rest to Magnimar for selling. Who is in?"

In addition to selling stuff, Izomandakus will visit the local tanner and talk to him about fabricating a good quality studded leather armor for Pachemu. Something that would make the little big comfortable yet better protected than now.

Kast has no particular plans outside of plans to make plans...to leave Sandpoint. He has proper fashion-forward armor that seems pretty sturdy, and great for belly rubs. He has the Iron Quill and a story of its first big kill: a goblin commander. And the shihedron stuff, well, that's just gravy.

"Oh it's nothing, just some long last plundered magic artifacts from when Azlant was a thing...it's no big deal, my Lastwall knight friends...nothing big at all," Kast imagines explaining such to all his knightly buddies and squires. He casually, ever so coolly, flickers the sihedron shield on and off.

Kast has more than a few imaginary conversations as he plans and plots on what he'll need to get to Lastwall and enlist.

Maybe the Sheriff will write him a letter of introduction? Or the Mayor? Or both?

Caught up in his daydreaming (and trying to turn it into action), Kast won't be doing too much for the rest of the morning and until the Sheriff's summons.

* * *

"Who is in?"

"I guess I could go, but wouldn't want to dawdle too much in Magnimar. I haven't been in so long...and have other things to do, Izo. But maybe if you show me where I can meet womens who like to kiss, that might make it worthwhile. The kissing," Kast says, adding another dreamscape to his daydreaming of what is to come.

Val will enjoy her friends’ company that evening, drinking and playing games long into the evening. She is not ready to start thinking about the future again. When she finally gets back to her room, she has trouble falling asleep, her brain trying to force her process some of what has happened despite her best efforts.

This adventure with the goblin invasion was fun, in a way. She still does not particularly care for killing, but she likes all the jumping and swashing and speed of it. She would much prefer it was some kind of game. It has gotten easier, though, and she is not sure how she feels about that. She needs it to be easier, at least until she deals with Corioles, and she doesn’t feel bad about fighting to save Sandpoint. But she also does not want it to be easier. Her dislike of killing is one of the few things she can point at to herself and say “see, there is something good about me.” Being a Hero helps, but it is ultimately just another type of renown. People who don’t know her putting her on a pedestal. It does not help her feel less hollow.

Sapphira never made her feel hollow. Gods, she needs to see her again. She always knows how to cut away everything unimportant. Val touches her lips. All of Kast’s talking about kissing is making her think about it. She has never kissed anyone that she wanted to. The person she wanted to. She will have to fix that.

Rolling his eyes when Izomandakus starts talking about how 'profitable' the Thistletop fight was, Seamus raises an eyebrow when, to his surprise, Hemlock actually says he may have something for them. Nodding as plans are made to see the Sheriff again before noon. He gets up and leaves with his friends.

As Izomandakus begins speaking about Magnimar, Seamus turns towards Val to see her reaction to returning to Magnimar. Looking towards Izomanadakus. "I'd be up for the trip, I'm getting used to riding." He looks towards Kast who seemed to be daydreaming. Nudging his friends arm, Kast talks about Magnimar and kissing. surprised at Kast's confession, Seamus shrugs. "If you just want to meet attractive women who are willing to kiss you, just head over to the 'Kitten.' They'll kiss you practically for free. It's the other stuff that costs more."

Deciding to hang with his new friends, Seamus follows Val back to the 'Dragon' drinking and playing games. The group splitting up at a reasonably early time, he headed to Cracktooth's to visit his oldest friend, then headed back to the 'White Deer.'

Moonday evening had been so pleasant, that after the group departed the 'Dragon' on Toilday, Seamus had returned that evening to the 'White Deer'. Speaking to the lovely bartender with the striking tattoo he reserved the same room for three more nights. He had spent all of Wealday down at the docks speaking to ships captains, learning where they were headed. Dreaming about what it would be like to sail away. Eating lunch at the Hagfish eventually returning to the 'White Deer' where he had dinner. Turning in early Wealday, going to his room and soaking in the giant tub, ending the night sitting on the bay window playing his lute in the moonlight. Leaving early Oathday, to rent the piebald mare and ride around the countryside dreaming about what it would be like to ride away.

That evening, returning to the 'White Deer' he went straight to his room and quickly fell asleep in the oversized bed. Waking early (relatively) Fireday, wondering to himself, as he put on his newest shirt, the bright orange one from his mother, what the future would hold. Making a mental note to replace the torn bloody blue shirt when he got a new hat.

Eating a quick breakfast and checking out of the Inn, he realized that things would probably be returning to normal, so headed to the market. Arriving at his usual corner early (relatively) he drops the burned floppy black felt hat and the ground moving it with his foot and begins to play the lute. Watching for his friends to pass that way to escort them to the meeting with Hemlock.

Will deduct another 16.5 gp. for meal at the hagfish and three more nights at the White Deer Inn.

In addition to selling stuff, Izomandakus will visit the local tanner and talk to him about fabricating a good quality studded leather armor for Pachemu. Something that would make the little big comfortable yet better protected than now.

Sure, the tanner’s willing to try. ”I never fitted a pig before, but why not?” Usual rates apply, but remember you have a 10% discount on common goods from the town still in force.

Will deduct another 16.5 gp. for meal at the hagfish and three more nights at the White Deer Inn.

No need to track these expenses Seamus. I usually hand waive that sort of thing to avoid the game 'papers and paychecks'. :)

The next day (Lamashan 3), the Sheriff requests you again, this time to the town hall, where you’ll also meet with Mayor Kendra Deverin. It’s well after breakfast, nearly 11am, when the runner finds you all with the summons.

You, presumably, gather at the town hall and, after a short wait, head into the Mayor’s office and meeting room. Sheriff Hemlock is there as well and the servant closes the door behind you leaving you in peace.

The Mayor thanks you for coming, ”Thank you for coming on such short notice. We appreciate that you’ve been a real presence in Sandpoint these last few days. The work you’ve done is, well, it’s wonderful. Thank you.”

She pauses a moment before continuing, ”The Sheriff is going to make his request in a moment, but I wanted you each to know you are most appreciated, and I hope you’ll accept our offer.”

The Sheriff stands up and paces a bit as he talks, ”Yes, thank you.” He manages to say it quickly, without being in any way dismissive, ”I questioned Tsuto and Orik last evening and they confirmed your report, more or less. Tsuto was pretty tight lipped, but Orik is trying to save his life so he was more, ah, conversational.”

”I also talked to Ameiko, who is asking for leniency for her brother. Messy business. She’s going to accompany us to Magnimar to deliver the prisoners and try to arrange someone down there to help him. Family.” he shrugs thoughtfully.

Pausing after his report, he eyes you all, perhaps lingering a bit longer over Kast. ”I’d like to make you an offer. It’s relatively expensive to keep on a large force of soldiers. Sandpoint has always gotten away with a few town guards.”

”And then we have… agents, like Shalelu, whom we pay when we need their aid, or when they offer information of use to us. For example, Shalelu usually gets us enough notice of proposed goblin raids that we can prepare with a few extra troops from Magnimar. I’d like to hire you to the same arrangement.”

”The deal is we pay you as if you were town guards - the princely sum of 3gp per month.” he chuckles, ”But you’d have no particular duties per se. If we need your skills, we’ll ask for them, and it’s sort of assumed you’ll make yourselves available if possible. Whatever we request, you get an additional sum for the work, or information, and you can always turn it down for cause. Sort of like doubling your pay when you actually have to work, and regular pay when you don’t.”

”I understand you may want to think about it, and you may have other plans for yourselves. I’d ask that you accept the offer for, say, a month. I’m satisfied you took out Thistletop, but I’m uneasy about the other goblin tribes - at least until they settle down, which should take a few weeks. When Shalelu gives me the all clear, you’re off the hook.”

”So basically we’d be paying you to linger in town for a month, with no duties mind you, and then we can revisit the deal.” He stops talking for a while, and the Mayor steps into the silence, ”What do you think? Will you accept the town’s offer? Please?”

Izomandakus smiles and winks an eye to Kast "While Valena or Seamus are really more able to bring you to the kind of parties you are asking for, I think what you are looking for is the The Shucked Oyster at Dockway"

---

Pachemu turns once and again, not very pleased by the measuring taken by the tanner for her armor "Oh, you are just such a little whiner. Do you want the next goblin chief to make bacon of you? I do not"
25 x2 (for unusual shape) = 50 + 150 (masterwork applied after) = 200 * .9 (discount) = 180 gp

---

Izomandakus stretches his eyes when the authority couple awards the party ears with nice words. The boy seems more satisfied when he knows the two prisoners will be taking to the judge without a pre-made death sentences hanging from their necks.

Now, when the money is offered Izomandakus nods "So that was the reason of the nice words. Well, I can only talk for myself, but for more that I will do whatever is needed to defend Sandpoint, three suns is just too little payment for risking my life"

Kast takes a deep inhale of breath when the Mayor makes her offer. He's inclined to take it, but it would also ruin the other plans he was planning on planning.

"This...is...a promotion, right?" Kast asks, trying to parse the offer as it reflects his current duties. "I still get to do patrols, right? And regular training? I don't want to miss out on that. I'm not yet good enough to avoid practicing."

You need to be perfect, Kast. Perfect.

Kast is quiet for a moment.

"Also, how long do you think this appointment will last? I might...I might, uhm, I'm considering other options right now too, and, you know, nothing is set yet, but maybe if I knew how long this might last?" Kast asks, wondering.

Val sits sideways in her chair, her legs draped over one armrest and her back leaning against the other. She pumps her booted foot absentmindedly while she listens to the offer. "Oh Izo, we would not be risking our lives for 3 gold. That would just be our retainer fee. They are offering significantly more if we are actually needed for anything. We would be like high-priced lawyers. Except less dangerous, of course." She thinks over the offer. It would be basically getting paid to do nothing, in her estimation, except for perhaps fighting some random goblins. The money is certainly good and the more material resources she has on-hand will make dealing with Corioles easier. She would be tying herself down to Sandpoint for a while though. If the others are staying around, though, she could hardly think of someplace safer to be.

"It sounds like a generous offer. I am inclined to take it, but I would like to hear everyone else's opinion on the matter."

Izomandakus listens to Kast willingness and Valena's clarification "Oh, well, if it only involves maintaining an open channel for communication of better offers, then this is a different matter then"

Picking up his burned floppy black felt hat and shouldering his lute, Seamus Follows the messenger to the town hall where the others are waiting. He smiles and greets his friends as they head towards the Mayor's office. "It seems like we're not just meeting with the Sheriff." Nodding politely to the mayor, he realizes how scruffy he probably looks as he drops his rucksack on the floor beside him, setting the burned floppy black felt hat on top and his lute on the floor nearby. Maybe he should have taken the stuff back to the 'kitten' so he didn't look like a vagabond. At least his orange shirt was clean.

Realizing the major had started talking, Seamus tries to pay attention and not fiddle with his hands. He thought it was nice that the sheriff had taken Ameiko's feelings into consideration and curious that she would escort her brother to magnimar. As the sheriff explained the offer Seamus wasn't surprised that the town kept Shalelu on a retainer and he thought it quite an honor to be thought of the same way. If they accepted the offer it means that all of them would be in town for at least a month. That was better than being alone.

Rolling his eyes as Isomandakus spouted that three gold a month was not enough. He smiles as Val explains to the greedy boy that he was getting paid three gold to do nothing. Chuckling as Kast sees it as a promotion but still wanted to do patrols. When Kast asks about the time frame, Seamus knew his friend was calculating how quickly he could be heading to 'Last Wall.' Who knows, maybe a month would give Kast time to find something here to hold on to. Seamus paused for a moment, wondering if a smitten Kast be more likely to stay. There were a couple of innocent looking girls at the 'Kitten.' Maybe Seamus could slip one of them as few gold, set them up in a little place near Kast and arrange a meeting. He considered which one looked more like Molly Pottersmoot. Looking at Kast he smiles slightly wondering what if he just had a talk with Molly on Kast's behalf.

Realizing the Sherriff and Mayor were still looking at them, Seamus clears his throat. "I'd do it, with a couple of provisions. First, we don't answer to anyone other than you two. Like that Warren, he's a dick." Realizing what he had said and who he had said it to, he mentally kicks himself. "Um sorry about my language Ma'am, but it's true. As a matter of fact the regular watch would need to treat us..." He pauses for a second, "Well at least treat us the same way they do Shalelu." Remembering all the reports Kast had to write. "Our reports would be given verbally. And if we did have to write one, it would be one from the whole group, not one from each of us." He smiles slightly, "I have terrible penmanship." He paused again, remembering they needed to go to Magnimar. "But we wouldn't be able to start until we return from Magnimar." Realizing they were sending prisoners to the city he added. "Unless you want our first job to be taking the prisoners to the city ourselves." He looks at the others and shrugs, "We're headed that way anyway. May as well get paid to do it."

Now, when the money is offered Izomandakus nods "So that was the reason of the nice words. Well, I can only talk for myself, but for more that I will do whatever is needed to defend Sandpoint, three suns is just too little payment for risking my life"

”It is too little, I agree.” says the Mayor, looking at Izomandakus, ”But it is the retainer we offer to all our associates. When we have paid you in the past for your services, have we not been generous? As long as we can afford it, we shall be generous in the future as well - when you are called upon.”

”Please understand, we are a small town. We are, by many measures, a wealthy town, but that would not be the case if we were required to add stone walls all around, and triple the guard. The more we have to pay you, the less we have for civic improvements, infrastructure, and regular guards.”

”They risk their lives for 3 suns, plus room and board. Not so much to be sure, but it is the way of the world.”

"This...is...a promotion, right?" Kast asks, trying to parse the offer as it reflects his current duties. "I still get to do patrols, right? And regular training? I don't want to miss out on that. I'm not yet good enough to avoid practicing."

"Also, how long do you think this appointment will last? I might...I might, uhm, I'm considering other options right now too, and, you know, nothing is set yet, but maybe if I knew how long this might last?" Kast asks, wondering.

The Sheriff speaks up, ”Sure, you can do patrols and training if you wish. Our relationship with Shalelu has lasted years. But as with all such relationships, it takes time to feel out how things work. If all goes well, it could last a long time indeed, but it doesn’t mean it will.”

Realizing the Sherriff and Mayor were still looking at them, Seamus clears his throat. ”I’d do it, with a couple of provisions. First, we don't answer to anyone other than you two. Like that Warren, he's a dick.” Realizing what he had said and who he had said it to, he mentally kicks himself. "Um sorry about my language Ma'am, but it's true. As a matter of fact the regular watch would need to treat us…” He pauses for a second, "Well at least treat us the same way they do Shalelu.” Remembering all the reports Kast had to write. "Our reports would be given verbally. And if we did have to write one, it would be one from the whole group, not one from each of us.” He smiles slightly, "I have terrible penmanship.” He paused again, remembering they needed to go to Magnimar. "But we wouldn't be able to start until we return from Magnimar.” Realizing they were sending prisoners to the city he added. "Unless you want our first job to be taking the prisoners to the city ourselves.” He looks at the others and shrugs, "We're headed that way anyway. May as well get paid to do it.”

The Sheriff grows a little red in the face, and cuts off the Mayor who was about to respond, ”You’ll get the respect we show Shalelu when you earn it young man. You've done well these last weeks, but Shalelu has been protecting our borders and warning us of hostiles for years."

"You may not like some members of the watch, but they’re putting their lives on the line for you day in and day out for far less than we’re offering you. And they don’t get the perks. If you are not interested in free money for a little civic duty, that’s fine.” he says grumpily.

There’s a bit of quiet in the room while everyone thinks their own thoughts a moment and tempers cool. The Mayor picks up the silence, as usual, ”This does not require you to remain in Sandpoint the entire time. It’s assumed you’d do your own thing, simply that you’d keep an eye on the residents of Sandpoint when you are in town - and notify us of things that you may notice that we may not. We do not wish to limit your comings and goings.”

”But I understand if you will not aid us in this way - and there are no hard feelings I assure you!” she takes a moment to glare at the Sheriff as if to remind him there are no hard feelings if you don’t take the job. ”We appreciate all you’ve done for us so far, and we’re just looking to codify it going forward to some degree. But that doesn’t need to happen. But the offer is there if you change your minds.”

"Sure, you can do patrols and training if you wish. Our relationship with Shalelu has lasted years. If all goes well, it could last a long time indeed, but it doesn’t mean it will.”

Kast nods, thinking upon things.

If it isn't set, then I can go when I'm ready. I think I'm almost ready. What else do I need?

Kast looks around the room, at the Sheriff and Mayor, and the party. And then he knows what he needs to do to really be ready.

Say goodbyes to Sandpoint. That's going to be the hard part.

"I'm going to take the night to think it over, but yeah, I think I can do this for a while. I still have a few things to do, so yeah, not going anyplace just yet."

* * *

Kast initially involuntarily shirks at bit when the Sheriff responds, then regains his composure.

Kast nods as the Sheriff responds to Seamus. The Sheriff is right, and Kast might be a bit more used to the man's temper, but it was certainly earned by Seamus. Sometimes, you just need to follow orders. That's the bottom line, and he hopes he'll have a chance to explain it to Seamus when they have more privacy.

Valena remains completely relaxed at the outburst from the sheriff. She has had worse. Keeping a cool head is key to discussion and negotiation, something the sheriff could do well to remember. Seamus could have perhaps been a tad more diplomatic, but nothing he was asking for was unreasonable or in bad faith. "Now now, Mr. Sheriff, there is no need for raised voices. I would be happy to know someone so forthright as Seamus is working with me. Note that Sea never asked for more money; he just wants to know he is valued and respected. We all want the best for Sandpoint, even if we may disagree on some of the details." She gives a dazzling smile. "What matters is that our hearts are all in the right places, is it not?"

Take 10 on diplomacy for 21

She folds her arms behind her head and closes her eyes. "I am happy accepting right here and now. I doubt I would find the answer at the bottom of a wine cup tonight, and I do not plan on looking anywhere else."

Frowning at Hemlock as the Sheriff got overly defensive, Seamus looks from the gruff man to the Mayor. As she explained that there would be 'no hard feelings' his frown softened a little and he almost smiles when she glares at the Sherriff. Nodding to her as she acknowledge her appreciation again.

As Kast explains he needs to think about it, Seamus wonders about Kasts motives. if Warren had shown his friend a little more respect would Kast be waffling right now? Kast dreamed of glory in last wall. If his peers had treated him with the respect he deserved here, maybe he wouldn't feel like he had to gain it elsewhere.

Smiling as Val told the Sheriff that there was "no need for raised voices" he looks towards his friend. She was right, he did want the best for Sandpoint but it wasn't so much respect for himself. He knew what he was and how people viewed him. It was how Warren treated Kast that upset him. HE didn't deserve the way the others treated him.

Biting his lip so he didn't laugh aloud when Val said she wouldn't find a different answer in the bottom of a wine cup. Nodding in agreement, Seamus speaks up. "I said I was in. But I'm not promising you'll be able to read my handwriting." He looks at Hemlock in the eye. "I told you at the temple, we only did what anyone would have. So, do you want us to escort Amiko and the prisoners to Magnimar or what?"

He then looked at Kast, wondering where he might find Molly Pottersmoot.

knowledge(Local): Molly Pottersmoot: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

"I'm going to take the night to think it over, but yeah, I think I can do this for a while. I still have a few things to do, so yeah, not going anyplace just yet."

”Good man, thank you.” says the Sheriff, somewhat quieter after his brief outburst. ”I know you’ll do the right thing.”

"Now now, Mr. Sheriff, there is no need for raised voices. I would be happy to know someone so forthright as Seamus is working with me. Note that Sea never asked for more money; he just wants to know he is valued and respected. We all want the best for Sandpoint, even if we may disagree on some of the details." She gives a dazzling smile. "What matters is that our hearts are all in the right places, is it not?"

She folds her arms behind her head and closes her eyes. "I am happy accepting right here and now. I doubt I would find the answer at the bottom of a wine cup tonight, and I do not plan on looking anywhere else."

The Mayor smiles and the Sheriff nods, ”Thank you ma’am, a cup of wine would do us all good. Been a rough few weeks.”

"I said I was in. But I'm not promising you'll be able to read my handwriting." He looks at Hemlock in the eye. "I told you at the temple, we only did what anyone would have. So, do you want us to escort Amiko and the prisoners to Magnimar or what?”

The Sheriff smiles and nods at Seamus, ”Welcome aboard sir," he says with some respect. "No, I’d better see to the prisoners myself. I understand you’re taking your helmet in, so you’ll be traveling a bit slower than we.” He thinks a moment, ”But thanks for the offer.”

With a few further friendly comments, shaken hands, and a deeper understanding, the Mayor and Sheriff release you to the town. Sandpoint. Your town to protect and serve in your own ways, but with the support of the establishment and, if you can believe it, the populace at large. You're still greeted and thanked by folks on the street, though it is somewhat less frequent.

You make your way back to the Rusty Dragon. A group of performers, not Ameiko unfortunately but still quite good, is practicing for a performance tonight. They sound good and the lunch crowd (for it’s about noon now) is appreciative of the snippets of music, if more broken up by the musicians banter as they get in tune, and step, with each other.

You will, presumably, head to Magnimar tomorrow - a three day journey there. You’ll have horses supplied by Daviren Hosk, and a wagon and driver too as the helm is too large and too heavy to be carried by a single horse over such a distance.

Any other plans for the afternoon/evening before you depart tomorrow?

Shaking hands with the Sherriff and the Mayor, Seamus picks up his gear, and follows the others out of the office and down Market Street through the square and on to the Rusty Dragon. Sitting down at the usually table, Seamus watches the performers warm up, as they order a quick lunch. Having the soup and sandwich of the day, Seamus starts to plot. Leaning over to Isomandakus he tells him. "Hey Izomandakus, you remember that gold symbol we found, and the forty precious stones? I have an idea and I want to see if it's possible. Can I have them for a couple of hours?"

Izomandakus smiles back at Seamus "Are we having the same idea? Let's bring the large golden helmet too"

Potentially, the boy with Pachemu and possibly Seamus (but Valena and Kizzy are also invited), pays a visit to the local jeweler. Izomandakus leaves with some effort the huge golden helmet in the middle of the workshop "We are taking this for selling to Magnimar. It is just usual adventurer richness and wealth" the redhead smiles at the jeweler and winks an eye to Seamus "If you could clean it a bit so it looks shiny for the potential buyers... of course if you would like to buy it yourself, or any of these other pieces..." the redhead presents the gold symbol, and the forty precious stones "...we would offer you the opportunity to be the first one to place an offer Mr. Pottersmoot. Just because we are good neighbors after all"

Assuming the jeweler's daughter is also at the workshop, Izomandakus makes her a greeting with the hand "Hi Marigold! Would you like to come tonight to the party at the Rusty Dragon they are offering us for saving the town? There will be dancers, and music, and food, and Kast. Now that we have so much money we will have to plan how to spend it. Maybe you can explain some of your jewel designs and have some fun"

As Kast explains he needs to think about it, Seamus wonders about Kasts motives. if Warren had shown his friend a little more respect would Kast be waffling right now? Kast dreamed of glory in last wall. If his peers had treated him with the respect he deserved here, maybe he wouldn't feel like he had to gain it elsewhere.

Not sure we had privacy to explain things yet, but will do so now, assuming we're out of the meeting.

"Listen, I'm not saying Warren isn't a total dick! Believe me, the man is as dickish as they come," Kast pleads his case, smashing his fist into his hand to make his point. "But in service, you have to work with the dicks you have, not the dicks you wish you had. There will be a portion of dicks in every army, along every wall, and in every battle...and sometimes you have to rely on those dicks to not be dickish, and they just might save your life."

Kast shakes his head, annoyed at Warren again and moreso for making him have this conversation.

So in my minds eye, breaking the conversation up into three parts: with Kast on the way to the Dragon. With everyone, responding to Izomandakus question in his first paragraph. Then apparently headed to the jeweler's shop.

On the way to the dragon
Surprised by Kast's emotional outburst, Seamus nods and listens, trying not to chuckle at the repetition of the word. Other than that not sure how to respond. Kast was right, there are jerks all over; and most of them want to have some sort of authority so they could lord it over people. Seamus had seen his fill of jerks: the people who worked with his step father, many of the clients at the kitten, even some of the customers at Cracktooths. That didn't give them the right to be that way.

Seamus shrugs. "Maybe so. And your right a lot of organizations have jerks in charge. But the city watch shouldn't be that type of organization." He looks over his shoulder, back the way the came, then unintentionally toward Kast's limping leg. "I bet if some weren't such jerks to you, you wouldn't be in such a hurry to go to 'Last Wall' just to prove yourself."

in the Dragon answering Izomandakus
Raising an eyebrow when Izomandakus asks "Are we having the same idea?" As the boy talks about the large helmet, Seamus sakes his head. "Apparently not. I was thinking about having five matching pieces of jewelry made. Rings or bracelets, something. One for each of us to remember our time together. It seems like we may all end up going our own ways, and I wanted ..." He shrugs a little not really sure of what he had in mind other than making a memento and talking to Molly about Kast.

at the jewelers
Almost embarrassed by the stares as they roll the helmet up to the jewelers shop, Seamus tries not to cringe as Izomandakus brags about the helmet, wealth and spending. Pausing it reminded him of the Sczarni he grew up around. The Dons, the ones with the true power and wealth, didn't flaunt it. Yeah they had nice homes and nice clothes. But they purchased for quality, not for show. The lower level 'manager' types and the foot soldiers flaunted what little wealth they had. Always trying to look richer than the other. All style no substance. Seamus didn't want to seem like that, and he certainly didn't want to present Kast that way to Molly or her father. He paused for a moment at the counter, How had Marigold gotten the nick name Molly, he would have to ask Kast, Kast would know.

Walking up the counter, he gave Izomandakus a quick look. "Um, yeah, we're having a small get together and we'd like you to come." He looks back at Izomandakus, "And since were in a jewelry shop, that's open to do business." He turns back to Marigold and drawing out the gold symbol and gem stones placing them on the counter. "I was thinking of having matching jewelry made to commemorate our time together. Maybe a ring or bracelet or something. Is that something you could help us with? If I provide the jewels and the gold. What would something like rings cost? There are five of us, Izomandakus and myself, Meg and Kizzy and of course our leader, Kast. I know we would have to get rings sized. You know Kast right? He's in the watch. He's been our acting commander and liaison with the Sheriff and Mayor."

Sense motive on the quick look Seamus gave Isomandakus DC 2

The prematurely gray Mr. Pottersmoot frowns at the helm - ”Just keep it outside! You'll never fit it through the door!” the man shouts at Izomandakus as he tries to get it off the wagon it's currently on in anticipation of tomorrow's departure to Magnimar.

"I can see it just fine." he says gruffly. Somewhat more kindly, he gestures to his daughter Marigold, "Go and see what they want with the helm."

He'll stay inside and go over the other gemstones you bring to his attention. Marigold Pottersmoot joins you outside, smiling at Izomandakus’ offer though she turns him down casually, ”Oh I don’t know. Sounds like it’ll be crowded. Might not get a comfortable seat.” She examines the helm, ”Sure, there’s some things we can do to sharpen this up a bit for a potential buyer. For one thing, you’ve got it resting on the most interesting scroll work - from what I can see of it anyway. Here, help me shift it.”

You begin the work of cleaning up the helm for sale. She directs Izomandakus and the ever-present Valena to lift up the helm and put it on a different side.

Walking up the counter, he gave Izomandakus a quick look. ”Um, yeah, we're having a small get together and we'd like you to come.”

Marigold smiles, unsure and still hedging, ”Oh, I don’t know…”

He looks back at Izomandakus, ”And since were in a jewelry shop, that's open to do business.” He turns back to Marigold and drawing out the gold symbol and gem stones placing them on the counter. ”I was thinking of having matching jewelry made to commemorate our time together. Maybe a ring or bracelet or something. Is that something you could help us with? If I provide the jewels and the gold. What would something like rings cost? There are five of us, Izomandakus and myself, Meg and Kizzy and of course our leader, Kast. I know we would have to get rings sized. You know Kast right? He's in the watch. He's been our acting commander and liaison with the Sheriff and Mayor."

She looks at the jewels while directing Izomandakus to shift the great helm. Izomandakus, while strong, struggles a bit while Marigold considers, ”It depends, how nice do you want them? What I mean by that is we could do simple gold bands in a basic setting pretty cheaply. But we could also do something more creative if you wanted. Maybe something like… Oh, I don’t know, we could set one gem in the center of the ring, and break up another to place shards radially out from the center. Or any pattern really. Done right, it could be a signet ring, if that’s important to you. Lots of options.”

You chat a a bit and it’s clear she can make simpler rings easily enough, with a single gemstone set in the center. Something like that might cost 5gp, plus one stone, and be worth 15gp. Or, the other end (short of magic of course) would be something particularly fancy, costing 100gp plus two stones per ring, and be worth 120gp and can be used as a signet ring. If the latter, she’ll want some idea of what pattern you’d like to follow. Some symbol for the party that she can incorporate into the rings. Either way I can easily take this off the group funds before we do the divvy. Just let me know what you want.

"Oh, am I being that obvious?" Izomandakus smiles enthusiastic after noticing Seamus stare at him. Pachemu hides her head ashamed.

The redhead helps moving the helmet as directed by Marigold Pottersmoot, not hiding the moments when it seems too heavy. He seems to want explain how they got the helmet, and the treasures but the conversation flows towards the crafting "Oh, that's an interesting idea. I like it. We can remain somehow together after that even if we split"

"The signet ring might be something useful to have. What about engraving the gems or the ring?" Izomandakus shares his own ideas about crafting "How was the name we were going to be known about? Sihedron Rascals? Sandpoint Riders? Maybe we leave it as SR Band"

I was thinking Seamus would get the rings as gifts for the others, so take ten stones out of the group funds, but the 500 gp. will come out of Seamus' pocket.

Listening to Marigolds explanation, Seamus pondered what kind of rings, and what the insignia could be. He would have to think about it. Looking down at the stones, he admits. "I like the idea of a signet ring, making the central stone the same, then each of the rings having a different color shard around it, representing our unity and our differences. I will need to think on it some." He looks down at the counter pausing. If this were music he could find a song that would represent each of his friends. But a design to represent them all, then a color for each? Looking back up. "Each of the five of us are very different, but I don't know how to describe it. Since you are the artist, you should come tonight, watch them and help me decide what color represents each. I would be willing to pay you for your time if that is an issue."

Realizing Izomandakus was standing over his shoulder, he turns and looks at his friend. "Those are terrible names, none of use are rascals or riders and no one even knows what a siherdron is. And not a word about the cost of the rings to anyone. I want them to be a surprise." He looks back at Marigold. "Honestly. he's almost as smart as Kast, but such a flibbertigibbet. You really should come tonight. I know it would make Kast happy, he always speak highly of you."

Setting his purse on the counter beside the stones, he starts setting stacks of gold coins on the counter. "I believe it's customary to pay half when the order is placed?"

"The signet ring might be something useful to have. What about engraving the gems or the ring?" Izomandakus shares his own ideas about crafting "How was the name we were going to be known about? Sihedron Rascals? Sandpoint Riders? Maybe we leave it as SR Band"

”Oh, sure, we can easily engrave whatever you want. That’s easy to plan for.” answers Marigold smiling.

I was thinking Seamus would get the rings as gifts for the others, so take ten stones out of the group funds, but the 500 gp. will come out of Seamus' pocket.

Got it.

Listening to Marigolds explanation, Seamus pondered what kind of rings, and what the insignia could be. He would have to think about it. Looking down at the stones, he admits. "I like the idea of a signet ring, making the central stone the same, then each of the rings having a different color shard around it, representing our unity and our differences. I will need to think on it some." He looks down at the counter pausing. If this were music he could find a song that would represent each of his friends. But a design to represent them all, then a color for each? Looking back up. "Each of the five of us are very different, but I don't know how to describe it. Since you are the artist, you should come tonight, watch them and help me decide what color represents each. I would be willing to pay you for your time if that is an issue.”

Setting his purse on the counter beside the stones, he starts setting stacks of gold coins on the counter. "I believe it's customary to pay half when the order is placed?"

She smiles, ”I suppose, fine then. I’ll join you in your rabblerousing… purely work related mind you. I shan’t have any fun at all. I promise!” she laughs mischievously. Her father collects the advance and some of the precious stones you’ve picked up.

By then, Izomandakus and Valena have righted the helm. Miss Pottersmoot points out a few things she can do to improve the look of the thing. ”Dunno if it’ll get you more money, but it’ll look nicer so maybe it’ll at least sell faster.”

And with that, you’re free to while away the rest of your day, until the, uh, party’s party that night! Marigold Pottersmoot comes, as promised, dressed fancily. She sees your table upon entering (I suspect some of you might have been loitering guarding the Rusty Dragon all afternoon) and walks over. ”So who’s the band tonight? I heard it might be the Wrathful Sloths. I hear they’re very good.”

Val mills about some distance away, looking over the jewelry and assessing its quality. She wants to respect Sea’s desire to keep to himself what he is trying to do, but she also likes being included and having people around. She just stops paying attention to anything he’s doing. Pure selective obliviousness. She does manage to hear Izo shooting out more name options. ”Stop trying to force it, Izo! It will either come naturally or not at all.”

Just a short post for now. I’ll try to post something about the party later

Kast doesn't have much to say about the Marigold stuff. He's never spoken of her aloud, but it might be clear that she's very interesting to any young man.

* * *

Kast will spend some time at home, just being at home and reading, thinking, and pondering. He has some decisions to make and isn't sure what he is going to do.

However, after a good measure of alone time, he will limp his way to the Rusty Dragon for dinner. A nice dinner. Because he can afford it.

Izomandakus says farewell to Miss Pottersmoot and her father and comes back home until the party time.

At Sandpoint Savories the boy works on copying Leyre's spells from her book.

Some hours later, at the Rusty Dragon, Izomandakus takes the usual table of the party to have a drink and listens to the music with Pachemu waiting for people to arrive. He smiles and nods silently if people approach, letting them explain their stories.

Meanwhile, Pachemu takes the dancing area and enjoys herself with turns and cabrioles of all types, oinking happily when other dancers approach.

"I bet if some weren't such jerks to you, you wouldn't be in such a hurry to go to 'Last Wall' just to prove yourself."

Kast laughs a bit.

"You think I'm going to the wall to prove myself? No. Not sure where you got that idea," Kast shakes his head, amused. "I have nothing to prove to them. I just don't want to die here, you know? I want to try to do something more. We all gotta find our thing in life, and I think my thing...my thing is to fight on that wall and watch for the return of the Whispering Tyrant. I've read all about him. And I know the fight. I know about the undead and his orc allies. I know that's why the 'Wall is the place I need to be. I know it's not likely the Tyrant will comeback, but it's either the 'Wall or I'm heading to the Worldwound, and it's cold up there...so I'll stick to the 'Wall."

Kast shakes his head, looks at his hands, trying to avoid having his gaze go down to his twisted lump of a left leg.

"It's hard to explain. I just don't know that I want to be here," he waves his hands at Sandpoint. "Nothing against Sandpoint, it's *home*, but also, I think I can do more. And the 'Wall needs me."

Earlier with Kast headed towards the Dragon

Raising his eyebrow at Kast as his Friend declares "I have nothing to prove to them." Seamus shakes his head. He listens as Kast explains about wanting to do something more to be somewhere other than here. Nodding, "I get wanting to be somewhere else, sometimes. And I get wanting to help solve a problem." He spreads his hands, gesturing around them. "But there are literally problems everywhere. You just happened to name the biggest two. And what if Nualia's threat wasn't just a threat. What if she woke something ancient and the threat here is real. What if we need you more?"

Pausing, looking at his friend. 'This is just the first time I've been a part of something and I think it's worth keeping together as long as possible." He smiles, "Maybe I'm being selfish. But if I can figure something out that will help keep you here and part of the team." He shrugs and lets the words tapper off.

Will get a post up concerning the party later today

"That is understandable Kast, the Worldwound is pretty cold, and far from home. Not many Thassilion stuff there. Plus too many raging Kellids around" Izomandakus pads the man and offers him some drink "Plus we will miss you here, so let's enjoy it while we are together"

Pachemu performs another dancing movement in the center of the room, leaning over the floor and moving his ass in circles at the rythm of the music.

Seeing Marigold enter the 'Dragon' Seamus stands and waives her over to the table. Seeing the nice dress she had changed into, he was glad he was wearing the clean reasonably new orange shirt and had dropped his beat up rucksack and burned hat under the table. Grabbing a chair from a nearby table, he places it between himself and Kast. Nodding to the stage, "Yeah, they were warming up while we had lunch. I think the crowd will enjoy them. What they lack in Ameiko's song narrative they make up for in danceability." Pointing towards Pachemu's antics as if to demonstrate the truth of it.

As he holds the chair for her he gestures around the Table. "Marigold Pottersmoot, let me introduce you to the Hero's of Sandpoint. She's going to design the jewelry I mentioned at lunch." He gestures towards Val. "You met Meg earlier today at the shop." He then gestures towards Kizzy, "Qetsiyah is a good friend of Amieko's, she goes by Kizzy." He turns toward Izomandakus, "Of course you know Izomandakus..." Then gesturing towards Kast. "And of course our leader Kast." As he takes his seat, he asks, "didn't you two take some classes together back in the day at the academy?"

As the evening progresses, between the courses of the meal and during pauses in dancing, He shares bits and pieces of things about the others that may help Marigold with the design of the ring. He shares that a pentagon shape representing the five of them would be his choice, with a diamond in the middle then a different 'shattered stone' representing each of them. He liked the idea of each of their weapons being engraved on a side of the pentagon. He shares that Kizzy uses a guisarme and wears scarlet. Meg uses a rapier and is fond of Sapphires, Izomandakus uses a staff and seemed to be fond of green. Kast used a bardiche and since he had started wearing a certain cloak, that white seemed to be his color. As for himself, Seamus explained that he really only knew how to use a knife and asked that his ring's 'shattered gem' be a black stone.

Val listens to Kast talk about “The Wall” and she can finally at least partially understand why he is so fixated on it. She also likes the idea of “more,” though she significantly disagrees about what “more” would be. The very concept of a quiet life of service offends her. Aim for the top or nowhere at all, and do it on your own terms. Dreams are supposed to be larger than life, and a hero should be the greatest dreamer of all.

Now, while they are celebrating, is not the right time to get into such arguments, though. ”Enough talk of walls and tyrants; let us drink and be merry!”

She stands and motions to kiss Marigold’s hand as she is introduced. ”Absolutely charmed, darling.” It feels so strange to be flirting with a woman, but also so...right. There was no drop in her stomach like when she had dealt with men, only a rising lightness in a shoulders that made her smile. She enjoys the opportunity to practice such gestures more than actually having any interest in Marigold.

"Plus we will miss you here, so let's enjoy it while we are together"

Kast smiles at Izo's words, and knows the emotion behind them. This is not going to be an easy decision to make.

"Yeah, I'm not in a rush to get out of here. And I still have a bit to learn, but after these past few weeks, I now have the money to get me there. And the Iron Quill. And this neat new armor," Kast looks down at his bare belly, and gives it a scratch. He smiles. "But it will soon be time to go." To Lastwall. To enlist. To become a knight.

* * *

Marigold Pottersmoot comes, as promised, dressed fancily. She sees your table upon entering (I suspect some of you might have been loitering guarding the Rusty Dragon all afternoon) and walks over.

Seeing Marigold enter the 'Dragon' Seamus stands and waives her over to the table.

Kast nearly spill his drink as Marigold walks in, and walks in prettily. Too tongue-tied to say anything, Kast can only nod when Seamus shows off for Marigold, clearly showing off by showing how cool and he knew really great people in town.

Must be nice for Seamus to have such an easy way with women.

And inside, Kast's heart sinks.

Musicians, man, they get all the luck.

After a few minutes of Seamus' stories, clearly trying to impress Marigold, Kast excuses himself.

It isn't fair. But of course Marigold would be into Seamus. He's great. And can and sing. Of course. I hope...I hope they have many wonderful kids together and get to do all the kissing together. Yeah, that's probably what they are going to do tonight. Kissing.

"I have to go. I have to go...uh...go polish my scabbard," Kast says seriously, but it just comes out very awkwardly. "I'll see you guys tomorrow. Nice to see you again, Marismoot, uh...Marigold!" Kast's face reddens and he moves out of the Rusty Dragon, most of his meal uneaten.

"And a great knight you will do!" Izomandakus smiles back at Kast, offering him a glass of wine and a toast "For the great hearts that defend our lands!"

He then gets mingled for a while with the populace of Sandpoint celebrating at the Rusty Dragon. For some minutes, he holds a conversation with Daviren Hosk about the goblins and how the new horse was feeding. When Shayliss Vinder appears, the boy squeezes through the people and joins Gaven Deverin on a table, sharing the beer of the distillery's owner and talking about taxes and local rents.

Only when it seems the man is too drunk to hold conversation, Izomandakus stealthily joins again the group, nodding respectfully when Seamus presents him to Molly "I really like what you are proposing to do with the rings. Have you thought about opening your own workshop in Magnimar? There are many rich people there who would be willing to pay for your designs"

He is happy to toast with Valena. And even goes as far to propose her to play some drinking game. Making a coin jump over empty glasses, and the one who makes the coin into the topmost glass makes the other drink. Obviously the skillful Valena makes Izomandakus drink more than he should "W-where is Kizzy? Has anyone seen her today? I hope she has not decided to come back with the circus. Sh-she has been so protective and responsible"

Then, Pachemu comes after Izomandakus, and the redhead finds himself forced to dance with the pig for a while, but he does not seem very comfortable at the midst of the dance room. He steps multiple times on Pachemu, whom to all looks is much more proficient and fond of dancing than her two-legs friend.

At the first opportunity the boy profits a go to the toilet to remain for a while with just himself. Observing at the rising Moon through the window, he spots Kast leaving the tavern. Izomandakus sneaks out of the small toilet window and falls down to the street.

"Ouch!" a bit ashamed of his obviously drunk state, the boy calls the attention of the guard and would be knight "Already leaving Kast?"

Noticing the troubled state of the man, Izomandakus frowns himself "I know... I know... it also happens to me. I also have a strange feeling that we are not done with all this business... We have left some wild string open, but which?"

Pachemu is the first to party, but the rest of the group joins in eventually - after having a heavy conversation about the future. The entertainers are good, and as is the way of things, they get better as the evening wears on. Looser, more relaxed - they remember to enjoy themselves after the first few frantically exciting pieces.

Marigold enjoys herself, chatting away, and even making a few notes about the rings. She’s looking forward to the design and construction of them, though she worries her father will bring her down from some of her loftier ideas. ”And that’s a good thing,” she admits to herself, ”…for he is more skilled than I at making the metals do what I want. He knows their limits better than I.” She smiles broadly, looking forward to a lifetime of jewelry crafting, ”But I have time!”

Only when it seems the man is too drunk to hold conversation, Izomandakus stealthily joins again the group, nodding respectfully when Seamus presents him to Molly "I really like what you are proposing to do with the rings. Have you thought about opening your own workshop in Magnimar? There are many rich people there who would be willing to pay for your designs"

"Thanks, but I like Sandpoint. Seems like everyone wants to leave it as soon as they gain some skill. What's wrong with staying home?" she smiles.

Kast ducks out early, and Izomandakus gets a bit drunk as the evening wears on. Marigold too leaves early, though not as early as Kast, having gathered the information she needed, and had a bit of fun besides!

Early the next morning, you meet for breakfast and prepare to depart.

You mount up and begin traveling to Magnimar, City of Monuments, with yet another monument to the ancients, a 5’ tall gold helm - and some other plundered goods. It’s lashed to a wagon, driven by a friendly if taciturn older man hired for the purpose. He knows his way around, and manages to keep the wagon out of the worst ruts as you make your way south.

As you’re somewhat encumbered, it will take you three days to arrive at the end of your journey. There are, if you recall, two inns along the way. The inn closest to Magnimar is called the Sunrise Phoenix while the next one out is the Crownflower Inn. Both pleasant and not too expensive.

The days pass uneventfully and you reach Magnimar (image) in good time, arriving in the afternoon of Lamashan the 6th, a Moonday. Ahh, the stench of the city is quite different from that of the country. But perhaps each is fragrant in its own way. Well, maybe ‘fragrant’ isn’t the word…

The guards at the gate give you a little hassle over the helm. You suspect it is so they can check it out for themselves - but it doesn’t last over long. That hurdle overcome, you enter the city! You pass through the gates and into the upper city - where the wealthier live, for it’s wealth you desire. Hopefully no one recognizes Valena… (Let me know of any precautions other than your ongoing disguise.)

You take the helm to the grand market square, and before the hour is up you have several offers! Such things are as wondrous here as anywhere. The population, or at least the aristocrats who can afford it, are not yet jaded.

In fact, by supper, you’ve managed to sell all that you wished to, and even made whatever small purchases you planned (let me know about things that may need to be custom crafted).

Party Divvy!
Each of you receive 3,136 gp, and the group gets a Wand of Cure Light Wounds.

Magnimar is a huge city, and can almost certainly supply you with whatever you can currently afford. So feel free to assume you can get whatever, and I’ll let you know if there are any complications.

Val changes up her disguise, as “Meg” is much more well known in the city, probably having had her picture and name in the paper. She straightens her hair and colors it a pale yellow—almost white—and makes her skin paler—almost sickly. Whereas she had a rather dashing, lively look before, now she looks like someone who stays up all night reading and might burn to a crisp after five minutes in the sun. She likewise adjusts her body language so that she is much less poised and precise, instead tending towards slouching and sharp, practical movements, as though every gesture is a terrible inconvenience she wishes to get over with as soon as possible. She also adjusts the fit of her clothes to be more unflattering and show off less of her curves. To someone from Sandpoint who knows her as “Meg,” she might be recognizable as “Meg,” but to someone from Magnimar that knows Meg, she looks quite significantly different. ”I have changed up my appearance a bit, everyone, but Meg is fine. Magnimar a big city and I am far enough removed in appearance now that I doubt people will take me for my namesake.”

Disguise checks are rolled in secret by the GM, so I won’t roll it. I’d prefer to take 10 if possible. Her bonus is +9, though it’s about to go up....

Val seeks out two places first once she has gotten her money: a shop that may have mithril bucklers in stock, and a discrete magic shop that might have a hat of disguise.

Those are the only big purchases I have in mind right now. I’ll think on whether there’s anything else she needs

Sorry, let the time get away from me.

Disappointed, but not surprised that Kast wasn't willing to talk about how he met Marigold. Seamus was at least happy that Val was in high sprits. Enjoying the company at the table while everyone continued eating, talking, dancing and enjoying the band. As Kast begins to excuse himself, Seamus raises an eyebrow. 'Polish my scabbard? The boy doesn't have a sword.' Still not sure how someone as charismatic and well spoken as Kast could turn into a blubbering idiot around a pretty girl he had known all his life. He didn't act like that with Val or Kizzy, or any of the other people they knew. Shrugging he waives good by to his friend, calling out to him. "See you at the stables in the morning."

When Marigold announces she will be leaving, Seamus stands, escorting her to the door. "Thank you for coming Marigold. I'm sorry my friends were so... odd. I've never seen Kast so befuddled, and this is the first I've seen Izomandakus so drunk. I hope it didn't effect your opinion of them. Well, I as long as you have some ideas to share with your father. Were going to Magnimar tomorrow to sell the items we found. When we get back I'll bring the rest of the payment for the rings."

As Marigold leaves, he returns to the table reaching over to Kasts plate, lifting the roll he left. "No reason to let this go to waste." He takes a bite as he returns to his seat and drinks a little plum wine. As the party winds down Seamus looks to Val. "I believe I'll take Ameiko up on a room. If I go to the 'Kitten' I'll never get to sleep."

Ok, will post Magnimar itself in the morning

"Already leaving Kast?"

"Yeah, yeah," Kast says too quickly, so disappointed is he. "Yeah, like I said, I need to polish something and uh, pack for tomorrow." He glances quickly (and jealously) at Seamus, before nodding again to the party on his way out.

Walking out the front door of the Dragon, Kast gives himself the ol' ImAF!@%ingIdiot facepalm, with disappointment in his features.

Of course, she likes him.

* * *

Magnimar is the coolest city in Golarion, imho. I love this place...the setting, structures, history. It's all amazing.

Kast hasn't been to Magnimar often, but he's very anxious to leave Sandpoint after last night's disappointment. He'll try to keep his disappointment inside, burrowed into a tight bilious ball in his stomach where all emotions and worries are kept under tight control and will, of course, never bother anyone ever.

With plenty of money, Kast tries to decide what to buy. It's more money than he's ever had in his life, and because he's making a life-changing decision soon, he wants to buy right.

Pondering his purchases, however, if anyone needs a loan, please let me know.

"Oh... yeah... ehm... try just not to overdo it, don't risk the blade to blind you" Izomandakus let's his troubled friend go with a wave of his hand and leaning against the tavern wall "Let's see us on the morrow, I guess"

The boy stumbles back into the tavern, and after eating a large lot of mashed potatoes, he excuses himself and takes Pachemu, who is still dancing, to leave for the night.

---

The next day, the head is still dazing from the night excesses, which makes the boy maintain a lower profile than usual. Still, he seems confused at the appearance of Valena/Meg "Oh, wow! I would have not recognized you! If you were an actress at the theater you could make all the roles there and I would not notice!" he laughs a bit amused by the transformation.

Back at Magnimar, Izomandakus is absorbed by the sight of the Arvensoar with pride "I cannot imagine such a fortress being ever conquered" he remains looking for a while long as they approach the city.

The boy is happy to find a buyer for the golden helm. And at the magic shops, he makes himself with a beautiful lesser metamagic rod of extend whose tip is a sand clock. The rest of the money he spends on ink, directly imported from Goka, good quality parchment and other inscribing reagents.

During the midday, he pays a visit to the Golemworks and visits another few friends before calling the day over.

Having spent the night at the 'Dragon' Seamus was sitting in the dinning room eating a pastry when Val came down the stairs and joined him at their table. He looked up, then looked again. It wasn't until she raised her brow in that manner she has that he recognized her. Closing his gapping mouth, he had never known someone so good at the con who wasn't, well a con, Shaking his head. "When were done with whatever this is were doing for the Sherriff, remind me to tell you about the 'three step, spin and jump.' you'd be perfect for it."

Meeting the others at the 'Goblin Squash Stables' Seamus rents the same piebald black mare that he had rented a couple of times. Patting her on the neck he tells her, "We have to stop meeting like this Buttercup, Old Hosk will expect me to purchase you." Mounting on the horse Seamus enjoys the two day trip to Magnimar. Playing his Lute as the travel to pass the time. figuring no reason to waste money, he also playing it ath the Sunrise Phoenix and Crownflower Inn for his supper, then slept out under the wagon to make sure nothing happened to the giant helmet.

At the city gates, Seamus keeps an eye on the guards, watching to see if the recognized Val. Once they are in the city he stays with the others while the take the Helm to the Grand Market. Once the items were sold, he departs from his friends and headed to a shop his step father showed him. One that specialized in fighting knives. Selling off his old short bow, +15 gp. he purchased a used but well crafted, and more importantly, magical varisian long knive. -2,310 gp. Satisfied with his purchase he roamed around Magnimar, eventually meeting the others at the appointed time and place.

You spend the afternoon selling and buying, and otherwise enjoying yourselves. You find an inn, rather nicer perhaps than you’re accustomed to (not to say the Rusty Dragon is lesser than by any stretch, but it’s special), and rather more expensive. But why not! You’re in Magnimar, and just sold a country king’s ransom worth of goods. And the best part - no one seems to be looking for Valena (though you haven’t exactly checked the wanted posters in the guard houses).

Magnimar is a wonderful city, filled with all manner of people, as diverse as the Varisian countryside. It’s spring, so many of the Varisian traders who had wintered there are beginning to break up and head out to their various stomping grounds to the east, and north.

The old man and his wagon who came with you, attaches to one of these caravans to make his way home, after picking up a load of whatnot to sell at the Sandpoint market. It leaves you free to travel back rather more quickly - taking just two days instead of three.

Or you could remain in Magnimar another day, and enjoy what the city has to offer! The choice is yours.

”Should we check if you’re still wanted, Meg?” Kast asks when the party is alone. ”Might be both good to know if you are wanted, and how much the reward is for you.” Kast doesn’t make the obvious joke, but takes it seriously.

”I’m happy to go look at the wanted posters, after all, it’s good for Sandpoint to be on the lookout for some people. You know. The criminal element. It’s part of the job.”

Throughout the interactions in Magnimar, Kast offers a forced and distant niceness to Seamus.

Val makes an innocent expression as Izo signs the praises of her acting. "An actress on the stage does not have to play as many roles as a party host does in a single night. And I am a very good host."

She pats Seamus on the shoulder at his con suggestion. "That reminds, Sea. If we see who I am looking for, I simply must introduce you. After this Hero of Sandpoint gig ends, she has good work that might interest you."

She laughs at Kast's suggestion. "Sure, why not? You do that, darling. Maybe it will be enough that it would be worth turning myself in for the reward."

The Next Morning

Val knows Sapphira's schedule by heart. That sounds a lot more impressive than it actually is, as Sapphira has kept more or less the same schedule for years. She wakes with the sun, has breakfast at her desk (coffee, two scones with flavor depending on seasonal fruit), breaks mid-morning to walk three blocks to her favorite cafe--Lavendar--to have a cup of their signature honey lavendar tea with lavendar honey, reads the paper, returns to get ready for lunch appointments, has lunch appointment at an appropriate restaurant, reserves the afternoon for parlor meetings and noble errands, and the evenings are spent on the typical array of dinners and parties and functions expected of her station.

Now, the question is, when to try to catch her? Corioles almost assuredly has someone watching Sapphira, so she will have to take that into account. Catching her during her morning walk to the cafe or at the cafe itself is too predictable, too expected. The afternoon would make sense except that Val does not know her itnerary, and she does not want to make the others linger around long enough to find it out. No, the morning makes the most sense, but at her apartments. Sapphira does get morning visits from people with valuable information occasionally, this is true, but they make arrangements ahead of time and come in through the back entrance. She will have to go in through the front. Perhaps someone new with information, someone that knows Sapphira by reputation and wants to make a sale. A plan begins to form.

"I think it is time to try out my new hat today, Sea." She closes her eyes and takes a moment to visualize the appearance she wants to capture, then suddenly shifts into the appearance of a dark-haired teenage girl attired like a maid. "Now, Sea, I will need you to help play my second in this little play we will put on. I will disguise you as a younger human boy and you can play my slightly younger friend, alright?"

She will roll, with her new hat's extra +10 on disguise, for her own disguise but she will take 10 to disguise Seamus, if he agrees

If anyone else wants to be included in the shenigans plan, please feel free. I'd feel less bad about derailing things if everyone was in on it

earlier in the trip
Raising an eyebrow as Val offers to introduce him to her friend, Seamus smiles and nods. "Happy to, any friend of yours is a friend of mine. But let me remind you. The point of doing a con is so you don't actually have to do anything. She may not like my work ethic."

The evening and next morning after shopping
Having returned to the selected Inn, Seamus was glad that it wasn't in the Keystone district. He didn't want the risk of accidently stumbling into his parents or a member of their staff. It's not that he didn't want to see them, he just didn't want to explain to them what he was doing in Magnimar. That wasn't quite true, he didn't want to explain to Zandu how he got so much money. Seamus was sure the Sczarni would want a cut for all his 'training.' Keeping a low profile that evening he went to bed at a reasonable hour Seamus had no trouble falling asleep in the soft downy bed.

Waking after a good nights sleep Seamus climbed out of bed and pulled on his deep blue almost black hose and soft doeskin low boots. Slipping on the violet shirt that morning, he packed his gear then fiddled with the new long knife. He hadn't decided yet where he would wear it. Finally deciding to attach it to his bandolier so he could reach it over his shoulder. He finished dressing slipping on chain shirt then his Burgundy vest and dark cloak he slung his lute over his shoulder. Picking up the burned floppy black felt hat in one hand and his pack in the other he leaves the room. As he moves down the hall towards the great room, he smiles thinking of the changes since his last visit in Magnimar. Oddly it struck him that after all the wealth he had gained, he still lived out of his rucksack. The most expensive thing he owned was the new Varisian long knife. Maybe he wasn't built to settle down.

Seeing a couple of the others at a corner table, Seamus joins them dropping the pack and burned floppy black felt hat under the table. Hanging his lute on the back of the straight backed wooden chair he takes a seat. Ordering a couple of pastries and a glass of milk, he tries not to fiddle with the silverware. Nodding as Val begins talking about 'trying her new hat.' He Raises an eyebrow as her appearance changes. Smiling, then nods as she continues. "well that that is just plain cheating." He gives a smile, "But I'm happy to go with you." His smile widens. "And it's not like I'm not your younger friend." He looks down at his tattered gear. "Should I get a different outfit? if it helps any I can alter my appearance to look human, It lasts for about five minutes." Seamus has the alternate race trait Flexible Half-Breed

Kast, when given time, will check with the local authorities to find the wanted sign section/bulletin board and check for all the people who are wanted, not just people he might know.

”Yeah, I guess I’ll see you guys later, huh? For dinner? Good luck on your thing, I’m going to go see what I can learn.”

Izomandakus is happy to remain one more day in Magnimar so Valena can check about Sapphira. The boy will accompany Kast on his visit to the Arvensoar to check about wanted people, posing as enforcers or bounty hunters.

While Valena and Seamus make their visit, Izomandakus will visit one of the city bookshops and buy the new biography of Eodred Arabasty II he promised to Chask.

At night, he takes his time to inscribe more of Leyre's spells on his spellbook.

Val’s face brightens at Seamus mention of this ability to disguise himself as human. ”You cad! Holding out on me, eh?” She taps her finger against her chin. ”Hmm, five minutes is not a lot of time. You have not traveled in these circles so many not know that discourse can take quite a bit more tome than you are used to. I would suggest saving it for in case we need to cover our escape. New clothes also sound like a delightful idea!” I assume we can procure a change of clothes from somewhere? We’ve got the money for it

”Now, you play shy, Sea. Pretend you are talking to Ameiko. I’ll do the talking. They will assume I’m your more assertive friend that’s pushing you out of your comfort zone.”

Assuming we get all that settled, skipping forward:

The two of them approach the door to Sapphira’s apartments and Val, in disguise as “Corona,” knocks until someone answers.

Nodding in agreement with Val, Seamus takes a bite of the pastry he order, "Your right, not a lot of time at all. But enough to lose yourself in a crowd. I only use it in dire circumstances." Raising an eyebrow when Val comments about 'pretending he's talking to Ameiko.' Seamus hadn't realized it had been that obvious. but he quips. "Or like Kast talking to Marigold?" He turns and winks at Kast. wondering. 'Maybe I should explain I don't date human girls. It would be like kissing my mother.' Turning from Kast looking back at Val, 'More assertive friend?' and smiles, "The best cons stick to the truth as much as possible."

Finishing breakfast, Seamus nods in response to Kast's question. "Back here for dinner here is fine, we'll see you two later."

As they leave the inn, they make their way to a shop Seamus had noticed the evening before. More a general store than a clothing store per say, Seamus quickly picks out an Explorer's outfit: Heavy black boots (good for riding or walking) tan leather pants, a light blue shirt (to replace the one that got so torn up) a dark brown leather vest, a blue silk scarf and a wide brimmed brown crushable wool felt Hat. Instead of a cloak, he purchased a canvas messenger bag. Which he stuffed his old clothes in. He purchased the outfit and using the shops changing room put it on.

Wearing the messenger bag on the opposite shoulder as his bandolier, he smiles at Val. "Ok, how do you want to do the makeup?"

Once the were ready, he followed Val to Sapphira's apartments looking as diffident as possible.

He'll 'take 10(15)' on the bluff. If it gets stressful we'll start rolling