The next morning, Zeldrith wakes later than usual, grimacing with pain as every move sends bolts of pain through his aching head. He makes his way down to the common room, grumbling, but as he eats breakfast, Ameiko, feeling charitable, brings him a cup of tea brewed with a handful of local plants - not quite as effective as Alchemist's Kindness, but far cheaper. As he drinks the tea, Zeldrith seems to feel better, having mostly shaken off the effects of the last night's revelry. "Well, there's nothing for it - my grandfather always used to say that the best way to clear a mind of vice is a day of honest work. Might as well make myself useful while I'm in town." At Arrian's words, he grins. "It feels good to be appreciated - this seems like a beautiful little town, and I'd love to help keep it safe."
The young man glances around at whoever else has convened in the common room of the Rusty Dragon. "I was planning to go around town, see if I can help with the rebuilding. You know, it's funny: the raid yesterday was poorly planned - even more so than usual, I mean. I'm starting to rethink what I said about hobgoblins being involved - when I fought in the Goblinblood Wars, a raid of this scale would have needed a commander to direct it, but no hobgoblin warlord would have organized something like this without everything timed and synchronized perfectly, something whoever planned this attack didn't do. We'll have to see if anyone around here knows anything about the goblin tribes. Maybe a new leader's risen to prominence there? It would be someone with a forceful personality but no combat experience, someone who could raise an army but didn't know what to do with it afterwards, if the raid's any indication."
As Ano sits down and orders her breakfast, she responds to what Zeldrith said with, “I…I remember killing one of the goblins and…he laughed at me as he was dying. I’m not as knowledibable on goblins as you, Zeldrith, but last I remember, goblins aren’t really so confident that they laugh when they die. Wonder if a nearby tribe just got too big for their britches?”
As Ano sits down and orders her breakfast, she responds to what Zeldrith said with, “I…I remember killing one of the goblins and…he laughed at me as he was dying. I’m not as knowledibable on goblins as you, Zeldrith, but last I remember, goblins aren’t really so confident that they laugh when they die. Wonder if a nearby tribe just got too big for their britches?”
"Or maybe some kind of magic? Or something scared them into attacking Sandpoint for some reason? I would think something motivated them to do this; there's been peace for quite some time."
Ordering her breakfast, Juriya responds to the group, "See? Told you about Hobgoblins! My bets, though I haven't been involved in any war thankfully, is just some forceful, big Goblin." She finished the food that she ordered, before responding to the group. "Y-yeah, don't remember any stories about Goblins being that confident, though"
He glances enviously at the Shoanti mage. "You're lucky - your family was able to get you into that mage order of yours. Much as I always wanted to sing songs in the common rooms of big inns or tend sheep under Desna's gaze, a mercenary's pay was the only way I could help my family put food on the table - and even then, I've more debts to my name than I'd care to admit."
Donimah, for her part, narrows her eyes a bit when Zeldrith praises her luck.
"There is...no...shame...in honest work," she says in that neutral tone that's clearly trying to sound neutral, giving the impression that she's choosing her words very carefully.
Donimah and Zeldrith on their way pass by Garridan. He understands and respects their decision. He mumbles something about being thankful for their help. However, his tone is more sad than angry. Taking a second look, the former mercenary and mage notice that he is standing next to a body. It is Cynthia, the woman who treated Donimah nicely when she went into the White Deer.
When Donimah realizes what's happened, her stony countenance softens a bit. She doesn't say anything for a long moment, before bowing her head.
"Odajemo počast zauvijek mrtvima. Neka je njeni preci s ljubavlju i ponosom prime u svoj zagrljaj"
She gathers her things from the White Deer and brings them to the Rusty Dragon before paying a small amount for a bath to be drawn for her as well, cleaning off the dust of the day and the blood of the battle. She relaxes in the tub a bit as she thinks on how much things had changed over the course of a mere day. Even more than the day her father had brought her to the Lodge. That new beginning seemed to pale in comparison to this one now. She continues thinking about it even as she finishes and lays down to sleep, wondering what awaited her in the dawn with the new...friends, she had made. That had to be the new thing that surprised her the most, but there was no other way to put it. People who she'd fought alongside and for, and who hadn't expected something from her, nothing like Riddleport and the Lodge. It gave her a warm and pleasant feeling as she drifted into dreams.
The day after starts in much lighter mood. After heads are counted, the killed in the attack are surprisingly few, especially in comparison to the amount of goblins that died. Many seem to have jumped off Junker's Edge to avoid being captured. In Zeldrith's experience, this was a very ineffective raid.
The group finds that the town suddenly knows all of their names, even those that have been living here with few friends and acquaintances. A simple walk around town awards any in the group with a surprise fresh loaf of bread from the Avertins or an offer to get discounts in their stores, and many pats on the back.
Arrian even finds that young girls blush and whisper to each other when he walks by. Zeldrith receives significantly less hard looks due to his ancestry. Donimah, Persephone and Juriya receive pretty flowers and Ano gets an invite to audition for a role Cyrdak's theater.
Donimah wakes and quickly dresses herself, preparing for the first day of real work here in Sandpoint. Unlike the others who've made journeys to the inn to be greeted by the townsfolk, she only descends to the common room, greeting them as they arrive and await Aldern Foxglove.
Ano walked down to the Rusty Dragon slowly, her head filled with many thoughts and worries. The townsfolk thanked her as she passed, but she didn’t quite feel their praises like she did last night. Not only was her mom’s words still heavy, but with her scenting abilities she could still smell the blood and smoke-a cruel reminder that, no, she’s not in some nightmare. Cherry wanted to say something badly, but had no earthly idea what to even say in such a circumstance, even if he had no clue what the Oath of the Clovermark is.
She finally made it to the Rusty Dragon, and as she entered and saw her friends at a table, she put on the best face she could manage…
“Hey! Sorry I’m a little late, Ama needed…a little help before I headed out!” The cracked voice and slightly forced smile didn’t seem to help her lie, though hopefully they could pass it off for fatigue or something.
She senses nothing amiss about Ano's demeanor as she arrives, assuming the young amurrun just shy and insecure by default.
"You aren't late, there is no need to apologize. Master Foxglove has yet to arrive, I understand."
The young man glances around at whoever else has convened in the common room of the Rusty Dragon. "I was planning to go around town, see if I can help with the rebuilding. You know, it's funny: the raid yesterday was poorly planned - even more so than usual, I mean. I'm starting to rethink what I said about hobgoblins being involved - when I fought in the Goblinblood Wars, a raid of this scale would have needed a commander to direct it, but no hobgoblin warlord would have organized something like this without everything timed and synchronized perfectly, something whoever planned this attack didn't do. We'll have to see if anyone around here knows anything about the goblin tribes. Maybe a new leader's risen to prominence there? It would be someone with a forceful personality but no combat experience, someone who could raise an army but didn't know what to do with it afterwards, if the raid's any indication."
Donimah listens to Zeldrith's assessment coolly.
"Yes, where one's own knowledge is limited, it is generally wisest to seek out more specialized experts. Conducting an archaeological survey is difficult enough without needing to worry about running into a raiding party out in the field."
As Ano sits down and orders her breakfast, she responds to what Zeldrith said with, “I…I remember killing one of the goblins and…he laughed at me as he was dying. I’m not as knowledgeable on goblins as you, Zeldrith, but last I remember, goblins aren’t really so confident that they laugh when they die. Wonder if a nearby tribe just got too big for their britches?”
"To be fair, the majority of these goblins seemed to be giggling loons. Less courage, more mad enthusiasm for the mayhem they'd caused. Such emotions flare brightly and burn out quickly, or more accurately get snuffed out when they encounter the slightest resistance."
Donimah suddenly blanches when she realizes what she's just said to Ano.
"NOW an apology is due, that was a poorly-chosen metaphor. I am sorry."
"Or maybe some kind of magic? Or something scared them into attacking Sandpoint for some reason? I would think something motivated them to do this; there's been peace for quite some time."
Donimah nods.
"So the goblins are a known quantity in the region, and like in other parts of Varisia are more nuisance than threat. I believe you have the right of it: they would not have made this attack without someone...or something...whipping their excitement into a frenzy. It may be that the reason this attack was so poorly organized was these were the ones who got too excited and ran off to make their move before the rest of their little warbands had assembled."
After some time in the Rusty Dragon common room, the aristocrat Foxglove finally makes his way down from his room. He immediately identifies the group and walks quickly towards them. Realizing he might be interrupting a conversation, he says "Forgive me. I do not wish to interrupt. I came here to thank you... properly for saving me yesterday from a certain... goblining." He finishes with a partial playful grin.
He proceeds to put down a pouch on the table that sounds to be filled with coins. If counted, they total 50 gold pieces. He continues "Also, before I go back to my townhouse in Magnimar, I was hoping to go on a hunt in the nearby Tickwood forest. It would be delightful if you could accompany me. I would provide you with mounts and supplies if you need any. Afterwards, if we catch anything, we could bring it to lady Kaijitsu to cook us a lovely dinner!"
Looking at Arrian, he adds "Of course, we would have to save some for your own establishment... Arrian", he pauses before saying Arrian's name.
He has probably learned of the names of everyone in the group only recently and is still memorizing them.
Addressing the entire group, he says "What do you say, will you join me?"
Arrian tries to conceal his surprise and happiness at the sound the coin-filled bag makes when it's placed on the table.
"I'll have to ask Jargie if it's okay if I can go. He relies on me to help him run the Hagfish."
"To be fair, the majority of these goblins seemed to be giggling loons. Less courage, more mad enthusiasm for the mayhem they'd caused. Such emotions flare brightly and burn out quickly, or more accurately get snuffed out when they encounter the slightest resistance."
Donimah suddenly blanches when she realizes what she's just said to Ano.
"NOW an apology is due, that was a poorly-chosen metaphor. I am sorry."
Although the catfolk flinches slightly, she remarks, “N-No, you’re good. I mean, my madness came from protecting the town, l-like you said. I just hope I can learn to control it soon.”
"Also, before I go back to my townhouse in Magnimar, I was hoping to go on a hunt in the nearby Tickwood forest. It would be delightful if you could accompany me. I would provide you with mounts and supplies if you need any. Afterwards, if we catch anything, we could bring it to lady Kaijitsu to cook us a lovely dinner! What do you say, will you join me?"
Ano hesitates for a second, remembering the Oath. But…surely a boar hunt is different enough from fighting goblins that it’s not considered a heroic? Plus she won’t be leaving the town by herself so…technically she’d be following what she promised?
“I mean…I have nothing else going on today. I know Cyrdak wants me to perform for that Harpy’s Curse play but, I was never a good actor. Plus, me in a play? Heh that’s just silly.” she said, ending with a small chuckle.
"There is...no...shame...in honest work."
Zeldrith looks at the mage quizzically. "Everything okay? You sound like you're upset about something."
"Odajemo počast zauvijek mrtvima. Neka je njeni preci s ljubavlju i ponosom prime u svoj zagrljaj"
The magus recognizes the dead woman just after Donimah, standing in silence for a moment as he tries to figure out what to say. What can I say? Sorry your friend died? He puts a comforting hand on Garridan's shoulder. "This attack was a tragedy - people are celebrating because it wasn't as bad as it could have been, but that's small comfort to those who lost those they care about." He hesitates a moment longer before clearing his throat and continuing. "Look, I know we didn't meet in the best of circumstances yesterday, but if there's anything I can do to help around the White Deer, I'd be happy to."
Zeldrith looks up at the nobleman as he approaches. "Oh, it's no problem - we're happy to help." His eyes gleam at the jingling sound the bag makes, however, and he quickly grabs it and counts its contents. "Fifty sails in here. You're not half-bad, civvie - sorry, I mean Lord Civvie!" The mercenary grins and nudges Aldern in the ribs (unfortunately for the young noble, with the elbow bearing his bone spur), then begins to divide up the coins, forming six stacks on the table - a gold sail goes directly into his money pouch, but his hand quickly emerges with its equivalent in silver and copper, adding the lesser-value coins to the stacks. "Let's see, that comes out to... eight sails, three shields, and three pinch for each of us."
"Also, before I go back to my townhouse in Magnimar, I was hoping to go on a hunt in the nearby Tickwood forest. It would be delightful if you could accompany me."
He nods, not looking up as he carefully collects his stack of coins and deposits it in his money pouch, checking to make sure each one is accounted for. "Of course - I'd be happy to help! I've never been much good with the bow, but I don't have much else to do in town." Finishing, he finally looks up at the nobleman. "So, what are we hunting, Your Civvieness?"
Listening in on the pause, Juriya deduces what the possible reason is, whilst ignoring her gut reaction that something might be wrong. "Hey, you just met us yesterday, Mr. Foxglove. No need to have our names perfectly memorized as of yet~ And Kaijitsu-dinner from a hunted meal sounds lovely! I'd have to make sure my family is checking up on my batches, but one day boar-hunting should be fine. No supplies needed," she says as she points to the crossbow stored away, "and a mount would just buck me off! Never had any luck with mounts or anything, main reason I'm sticking with my family's business."'
That, she adds internally, and you smell faintly of fox at all times. She then gives a side-eye to Zeldrith the moment he says "Civvieness", as if to say why, Zeldrith, why?
Persephone smiles at the arrival of Mr. Floxglove. The Varisian sips her hot tea while listening and disgusting the comments being offered.
I am not much for hunting, although we wouldn't mind a bit of air.
Zeldrith looks at the mage quizzically. "Everything okay? You sound like you're upset about something."
Donimah purses her lips a bit, thinking.
"I'm fine. But I prefer to attribute my success to hard work than to mere fortune."
Zeldrith looks up at the nobleman as he approaches. "Oh, it's no problem - we're happy to help." His eyes gleam at the jingling sound the bag makes, however, and he quickly grabs it and counts its contents. "Fifty sails in here. You're not half-bad, civvie - sorry, I mean Lord Civvie!" The mercenary grins and nudges Aldern in the ribs (unfortunately for the young noble, with the elbow bearing his bone spur), then begins to divide up the coins, forming six stacks on the table - a gold sail goes directly into his money pouch, but his hand quickly emerges with its equivalent in silver and copper, adding the lesser-value coins to the stacks. "Let's see, that comes out to... eight sails, three shields, and three pinch for each of us."
The very moment Zeldrith has finished sorting, Donimah's hand snatches her share away in a swift motion, shoveling the coins into her pouch and looking warily at the others as they claim their portions.
"Also, before I go back to my townhouse in Magnimar, I was hoping to go on a hunt in the nearby Tickwood forest. It would be delightful if you could accompany me."
Donimah wrinkles her face contemplatively, considering the offer. On the one hand, she did have to arrange meetings with Sandpoint's local intelligentsia to coordinate resources and information for her studies...but at the same time, the favor of a nobleman could bring many opportunities. Especially in terms of funding her studies. Besides, if what the others had said was true, her surveys could well lead her into the Tickwood, and it would be productive to get the lay of the land and cull potentially hostile wildlife.
"I...would be interested, Lord Foxglove. One must always be open to new experiences, after all."
Foxglove says "What wonderful news! Let's meet again tomorrow morning, before daybreak. I will buy horses for each of you who want one!" He sounds extremely excited about this.
Outside the Rusty Dragon, a town is ready to welcome their heroes. It is hard to walk without being noticed and complimented somehow.
During the day, Zeldrith finds himself with a note in his hand, not seeing who placed it there. It reads
You have moved away, but your debt will follow you. S.
"Who would I be to reject such generosity?" Donimah replies.
She turns to the others.
"With that in mind, what are your plans for the day? Apart from the obvious," she adds, nodding to Arrian, who presumably must return to the Hagfish for work.
"Who would I be to reject such generosity?" Donimah replies.
She turns to the others.
"With that in mind, what are your plans for the day? Apart from the obvious," she adds, nodding to Arrian, who presumably must return to the Hagfish for work.
Ano’s ears flattened a bit at that question. While normally she would go out and help out the nearby farms, that’s no longer an option, after making the promise to her mother.
“I uh…might go see my aunt at the Cathedral, then…I don’t know, maybe help some of the folks out in the town? I mean there has to be some help I can do for others?”
"Who would I be to reject such generosity?" Donimah replies.
She turns to the others.
"With that in mind, what are your plans for the day? Apart from the obvious," she adds, nodding to Arrian, who presumably must return to the Hagfish for work.
Ano’s ears flattened a bit at that question. While normally she would go out and help out the nearby farms, that’s no longer an option, after making the promise to her mother.
“I uh…might go see my aunt at the Cathedral, then…I don’t know, maybe help some of the folks out in the town? I mean there has to be some help I can do for others?”
"If you're looking to help...I could use some help talking Jargie into letting me go on this hunt. I don't know if it will be fun but if Mr. Foxglove is handing out gold this easily there might be more if we help him. Oh and you could help wash the dishes Ano; I know how much you love water."
Arrian sports a grin indicating he's teasing Ano.
Persephone and Isabel both smile at Arrian.
We can try!
"If you're looking to help...I could use some help talking Jargie into letting me go on this hunt. I don't know if it will be fun but if Mr. Foxglove is handing out gold this easily there might be more if we help him. Oh and you could help wash the dishes Ano; I know how much you love water."
Arrian sports a grin indicating he's teasing Ano.
Ano gave a big laugh at that. After wiping away a small tear of joy, she smiled, "Sure! If you wanna come with me to the Cathedral first that would be good, but even if not I'll just head straight to the Hagfish when I'm done!"
Cherry silently sighed in relief. He can immediately tell that the perky, energetic Ano he knows finally came back after that horrible night.
"Thanks for the warm welcome, ehe~" Juriya says as she's welcomed as a hero. She takes in the words of the party, hoping to make sure nothing is going on with Ano and her family. Juriya doesn't know too much about Ano's family, but she does know they can be strict at times.
"Is she even allowed to do this?" Juriya asks in her head silently, seemingly lost in thought.
"If you're looking to help...I could use some help talking Jargie into letting me go on this hunt. I don't know if it will be fun but if Mr. Foxglove is handing out gold this easily there might be more if we help him. Oh and you could help wash the dishes Ano; I know how much you love water."
Arrian sports a grin indicating he's teasing Ano.
Ano gave a big laugh at that. After wiping away a small tear of joy, she smiled, "Sure! If you wanna come with me to the Cathedral first that would be good, but even if not I'll just head straight to the Hagfish when I'm done!"
Cherry silently sighed in relief. He can immediately tell that the perky, energetic Ano he knows finally came back after that horrible night.
"I would because I need to talk with Father Abstalar soon but I'm already late to get back to The Hagfish."
Zeldrith makes his way out to the main square with his friends, grinning at the prospect of the hunt. "Well, I'm looking forward to tomorrow, certainly - this Foxglove man seems quite magnanimous with his money, and I'm sure he'll need a bodyguard with the goblins on the rise."
As he walks, he collides heavily with a stranger in the street, rebounding with a curse. "Hey, watch where you're going, pal!" Glancing down, his step falters when he sees the slip of paper pressed into his polydactylous hand - as he skims it, his face blanches, and his head whips around to search for the stranger, but the man has vanished.
The young man reads it again, more thoroughly, then crumples the paper in his seven-fingered hand. As he opens his fist, his crimson eye flashes white for a moment, and the paper vanishes in a mote of flame.
His hooves clack on the cobblestones as he rushes to catch up with the other heroes of Sandpoint, reaching the group just as Arrian jokes with Ano about helping to wash the dishes. "I could help too, if you'd like. What's the pay?" He seems rather preoccupied, barely noticing the rest of the party's conversation.
Zeldrith makes his way out to the main square with his friends, grinning at the prospect of the hunt. "Well, I'm looking forward to tomorrow, certainly - this Foxglove man seems quite magnanimous with his money, and I'm sure he'll need a bodyguard with the goblins on the rise."
As he walks, he collides heavily with a stranger in the street, rebounding with a curse. "Hey, watch where you're going, pal!" Glancing down, his step falters when he sees the slip of paper pressed into his polydactylous hand - as he skims it, his face blanches, and his head whips around to search for the stranger, but the man has vanished.
The young man reads it again, more thoroughly, then crumples the paper in his seven-fingered hand. As he opens his fist, his crimson eye flashes white for a moment, and the paper vanishes in a mote of flame.
His hooves clack on the cobblestones as he rushes to catch up with the other heroes of Sandpoint, reaching the group just as Arrian jokes with Ano about helping to wash the dishes. "I could help too, if you'd like. What's the pay?" He seems rather preoccupied, barely noticing the rest of the party's conversation.
Curious about Zel casting a spell to destroy something, but not wanting to intrude, Arrian replies, "I get room and board for my work so I can't offer any pay. If you want to be paid you'd have to talk to Jargie."
At The Hagfish Arrian introduces the three new friends he's made to Jargie.
"Sorry I'm a little late Jargie but these are my new friends, Zel, Donimah, and Persephone ; everyone this is Jargie Quinn, owner of The Hagfish and one of the best people in Sandpoint! He took me in when I came here and I've lived here ever since."
Arrian fishes the coins out of his pocket and hands them to Jargie, "This is what made me late - look at all this money! A guy named Lord Aldern Foxglove gave us fifty gold to split between us for protecting him yesterday. He paid us and then asked if we were available to go on a hunt with him. He said he'd buy us each a horse! I think I should go on the hunt and see how much he's willing to pay for helping him out. Ano and Juriya are going too. Can I go?"
Ano tells Arrian that she’ll head to the Cathedral first, but as soon as she’s done she’ll be at the Hagfish, before taking off in a silver blur.
—————————
Ano makes it to the Cathedral, where she slows her movement down before entering. She begins to look around for Saryo, not saying a word, knowing sooner or later she’ll find her aunt. But for a moment she’s taken in awe of the interior of the church-they did a fantastic job remodeling. Even Cherry, perched on her shoulder, was distracted by the beauty of it all.
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Looking skeptically at the group Jargie says, "Let me tell you a little story..."
Upon hearing this Ano and Juriya know it will be anything but a 'little' story.
He continues, "I rely quite a bit on Arrian and he's never let me down. The boy can fill a door frame if you know what I mean and that's come in handy more than once. We made a code where if I called out, 'Hey Arry!', he knew trouble was brewing. He'd come charging out of that kitchen with his cudgel in one hand, crazy-eyed look on his face and say, 'Got trouble boss???' Just seeing him was usually enough to calm things down. But if it wasn't he'd wade right in there to protect not just me and Norah Jargie gestures to the rather cloudy and questionable tank but the Hagfish too. It's his home."
Jargie places heavy emphasis on that last word.
"That's when he was 10 years old, still a boy at that time but like half-orcs big for his age. He's always been protective. I remember one time when Ano and Juriya were here outside and some boys were teasing them like boys do. Everything was fine until one of them started crying; I can't remember which one. All I heard was a 'whoosh' and there went Arrian out the door. I was sitting right by it which is the only reason I could grab hold of him because I could see the look in his eyes. What he was going to do wasn't going to be pretty; he's got his daddy's temper. And since the boys were part of the 'local gentry' it wouldn't be them in trouble. I've had more than one 'friendly chat' with the Sheriff about Arrian. So anyways I grabbed him and as much as I'd like to say it was my prodigious strength Jargie flexes his rather scant muscles that stopped Arrian..."
Jargie has to clear his throat and wipe at his eyes...
"The boy stopped because he was afraid he'd hurt me. Anyway all he had to do was his damn orc bellow and those little bastards took off like their hair was on fire. He's a good b"
He shakes his head and corrects himself, "He's a good young man. But he has a temper and it can get him into trouble. So I want to know that the people he's hanging out with have his best interests in mind. Because ole Jargie may not look like much anymore but I know people who owe me a favor or three if you get my meaning."
He smiles at Ano and Juriya and shakes hands with Zel, Donimah, and Persephone and goes into the kitchen to 'fetch' Arrian.
As Ano arrives in the cathedral, she sees that it is being consecrated in an intimate ceremony. At least much more intimate than what was planned yesterday.
Looking skeptically at the group Jargie says, "Let me tell you a little story..."
Upon hearing this Ano and Juriya know it will be anything but a 'little' story.
He continues, "I rely quite a bit on Arrian and he's never let me down. The boy can fill a door frame if you know what I mean and that's come in handy more than once. We made a code where if I called out, 'Hey Arry!', he knew trouble was brewing. He'd come charging out of that kitchen with his cudgel in one hand, crazy-eyed look on his face and say, 'Got trouble boss???' Just seeing him was usually enough to calm things down. But if it wasn't he'd wade right in there to protect not just me and Norah Jargie gestures to the rather cloudy and questionable tank but the Hagfish too. It's his home."
Jargie places heavy emphasis on that last word."That's when he was 10 years old, still a boy at that time but like half-orcs big for his age. He's always been protective. I remember one time when Ano and Juriya were here outside and some boys were teasing them like boys do. Everything was fine until one of them started crying; I can't remember which one. All I heard was a 'whoosh' and there went Arrian out the door. I was sitting right by it which is the only reason I could grab hold of him because I could see the look in his eyes. What he was going to do wasn't going to be pretty; he's got his daddy's temper. And since the boys were part of the 'local gentry' it wouldn't be them in trouble. I've had more than one 'friendly chat' with the Sheriff about Arrian. So anyways I grabbed him and as much as I'd like to say it was my prodigious strength Jargie flexes his rather scant muscles that stopped Arrian..."
Jargie has to clear his throat and wipe at his eyes...
"The boy stopped because he was afraid he'd hurt me. Anyway all he had to do was his damn orc bellow and those little bastards took off like their hair was on fire. He's a good b"
He shakes his head and corrects himself, "He's a good young man. But he has a temper and it can get him into trouble. So I want to know that the people he's hanging out with have his best interests in mind. Because ole Jargie may not look like much anymore but I know people who owe me a favor or three if you get my meaning."He smiles at Ano and Juriya and shakes hands with Zel, Donimah, and Persephone and goes into the kitchen to 'fetch' Arrian.
Ano looked down for a moment; if her memory was correct, she was the one who was crying. Yeah...yeah that's how she and Juriya met Arrian...right? Regardless, she smiles at Jargie, "He's just really protective of those he cares about. I know how that is. We'll promise to make sure nothing happens to him."
As Ano arrives in the cathedral, she sees that it is being consecrated in an intimate ceremony. At least much more intimate than what was planned yesterday.
As Ano witnesses the ceremony, she lowers her head in a small prayer and whispers something to Desna, something she has done every now and then since she was a child.
Otoitz egiten dut zure argia aurkituko dugula
Eta eutsi gure bihotzetan
Gauero izarrak ateratzen direnean
Gogoratu non zauden
Hau izan dadila gure otoitza
Itzalak gure eguna betetzen dutenean
Leku batera eraman gaitzazu
Gida gaitzazu zure graziaz
Eman iezaguzu fedea seguru egon gaitezen
I pray we'll find your light
And hold it in our hearts
When stars go out each night
Remind us where you are
Let this be our prayer
When shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe
Persephone takes out a handkerchief from her pocket to dab at her mix-matched ocean blue and emerald green eyes as she listens to Jargie's story about raising such a proper young man.
Isabel seems to be openingly weeping also.
He belongs to our Tribe. He is family. They all are.
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Zeldrith grins as Jargie tells his story. "No worries - Arrian's a good man, and I'm glad to count him as one of my friends. You've no need to fear for him under my watch - anyone who so much as lays a hand on him will have to do it over my corpse!" He reaches up and ruffles Arrian's hair with one hand. "You know, Arrian, you remind me of Young Zenvir, one of the scouts from my old mercenary company. He had orc blood, like you, but he wouldn't so much as hurt a fly. Stammered something awful, too, but had a keen mind - it got so nobody was willing to play cards with him, since he won every time."
As Ano heads towards the cathedral, Zeldrith's head turns to look at her. "You're going to the cathedral, Ano? Mind if I join you? I haven't had the chance to visit, and I think that now more than ever I need the guidance of Desna." Assuming the catfolk doesn't object, the mercenary follows her as she heads towards the new stone building.
Zeldrith stands nearby as Ano recites her hymn, his own head bowed as he prays - not close enough to disrupt her own worship, but in the courtyard alongside her. Once both are finished, he makes his way over to his friend. "My grandmother Tilara once told me something about the cathedral here - she was actually a priest here, you know, back in her youth. You see those seven stones there, at the center of the courtyard? Apparently, they've been there for thousands of years - matter of fact, she said that the town itself was built around those stones. They form an altar to Desna - it's said that each one represents one of the seven spires of Desna's palace in Her realm. Holiest ground on the Lost Coast, supposedly - at least, for our faith."
The tiefling grins, closing his mismatched eyes as he breaths in deeply. "You know, if you close your eyes, you can almost feel it. Almost hear the people who came here in ages past - some laughing, some singing, some just sitting and watching the stars. Each worshiping in their own way. It seems like any moment, I might open my eyes and find myself face-to-face with someone from a different time - an old wise woman, perhaps, just after the Chelish came, asking for guidance to deal with the settlers from the east; or maybe a simple shepherd, seeking refuge in this island of peace as Earthfall raged around him."
He opens his eyes, glancing at Ano. "You know, you haven't told us much about yourself. Was there anything in particular that brought you to Desna's faith? Some great epiphany? Or were you raised in the faith?"
He opens his eyes, glancing at Ano. "You know, you haven't told us much about yourself. Was there anything in particular that brought you to Desna's faith? Some great epiphany? Or were you raised in the faith?"
Ano took in a deep breath. "It's a...long story. I'll try to make it brief.
"One of our ancestors from a long time ago was a amurrun somewhere in Tian Xia, he was born with arcane abilities, but was also a devoted priest to Lady Luck. With his ability to cast magic of both arcane and divine, he helped topple a powerful tyrant, and freed an entire kingdom. His descendants-which spread across Tian Xia and to Avistan-were always told to pay respect to Desna, for it was her who helped our ancestor give freedom to others in the first place. Some of us are more tied to Desna than others-my aunt is one of them. She tried to be an acolyte at Magnimar but they refused her for...reasons."
Her smile faltered. "My aita-or, father-didn't grow up worshipping Desna, but he ended up in her faith by chance. And he said that he hears his own family from the past whenever he looks at the stars. He believes we can communicate with our ancestors for guidance in the starry sky. My ama-mother-she used to be faithful to Desna...but that was before...well..." She looked around, and moved in to whisper in the tiefling's ear. "That was before Chopper came around. My aita was one of his victims. And my ama hasn't really been the same since."
Donimah listens to Jargie's story with a stony look on her face, but nods when he finishes.
"You remind me a lot of my own father, Mr. Jargie. He worked very hard, and sacrificed much, to help me to reach where I am now. I only hope someday I have the opportunity to return the favor the way Arrian clearly does for you every day. You've...certainly raised him to be a better person than me, that's for sure. Rest assured, Arrian won't get into trouble with my wizardry to guard him, whether from goblins or...from himself."
As Ano leaves for the Cathedral and Zeldrith follows her, Donimah looks to the door.
"I will probably have to meet up with the rest you later, maybe back here for lunch or something...I've got some people to speak to now that the chaos of yesterday has quieted down."
With that, she sweeps about and exits the Hagfish, making her way to Brodert Quink's abode.
Jargie is somewhat silent after so many people vouch for Arrian. He turns to the side and scratches his eye, then says in a deep tone "Watch out for him, will you?" He then barks to Arrian "You better be here to find the source of that smell in the pantry. It's been more than a week and it still smells."
Donimah finds Quink in a very different mood than what she saw during the festival. He is mumbling when she approaches, but gives a polite nod to her once she arrives. His voice is a little raspy when he says "Greetings newcomer. I am... glad you were here to help with the goblins."
He doesn't seem as happy to see Donimah as his words imply.
Ano's voice attracts the attention of the few taking part in the ceremony. They do not seem annoyed, but seem to enjoy the singing. After it's done, the cloudy skies seem to open up slightly to allow some sunlight into the open center of the cathedral, where the stones that Zeldrith mentioned stand.
After a few polite words with the mayor, the sheriff who was present, but watching from afar, approaches the group. He says "I'm glad you're here. I wish to ask your help with something. Father Zantus will explain." Just then, the group can see the priest approaching. He says "It's probably nothing. On my morning routine in the Boneyard, I saw one of the vaults slightly opened. I called the sheriff because... you know, how these goblins are..." The sheriff finishes the thought "One of them might be hiding in there, so... I though since you're the bunch with the fame for dealing with goblins..."
After a few polite words with the mayor, the sheriff who was present, but watching from afar, approaches the group. He says "I'm glad you're here. I wish to ask your help with something. Father Zantus will explain." Just then, the group can see the priest approaching. He says "It's probably nothing. On my morning routine in the Boneyard, I saw one of the vaults slightly opened. I called the sheriff because... you know, how these goblins are..." The sheriff finishes the thought "One of them might be hiding in there, so... I though since you're the bunch with the fame for dealing with goblins..."
Ano's eyes widened a bit. Goblins...in the Boneyard? Not the weirdest spot for them to hide but...
"Yeah, we'll check it out. Right Zeldrith?" the catfolk asked her tiefling friend. Cherry chirped and fluttered, "I had more than enough of goblins from last night. I'm gonna find your aunt and talk to her for you while you check out the situation." Before Ano could even say anything, the cardinal flew into the cathedral.
Donimah seemingly ignores Brodert's tone.
"Good morning, Mr. Quink. I don't believe we got a formal introduction during the festivities and the...chaos that followed them, yesterday. I am Donimah Southlander, of the Order of Cyphers. I've come all the way from Riddleport to meet with you."
Arrian almost jumps out of the kitchen and exclaims, "Thanks Jargie I'll be back before you know it!"
When he thinks Jargie is safely out of earshot Arrian whispers to the others, "I don't think the smell is in the pantry; I think he caught wind of his latest midnight snack."
Arrian nods and says, "Sure we'll check it out."
Arrian puts his shield on and casts a spell before drawing his rapier.
Ano follows behind Arrian, helping him search for anything weird too.
As the sheriff approaches, Zeldrith listens intently to his tale of goblins in the Boneyard, nodding in agreement when Ano sets off towards the desecrated crypt.
As the tiefling follows close behind Arrian, his sword drawn, his head swivels from side to side as he searches for any signs of the goblins. "Believe me, Ano, a crypt is far from the strangest place I've seen goblins hide. During the siege of Stillwater, two of those little maniacs hid in the corpse of a dead horse when Admiral Volkemak ordered the hobgoblin retreat. They got Grigore when he tried to see what was in the saddlebags. Remember, stay as a group, watch each others' backs. They go for the throat first chance, and if they get around behind you, you're dead."
His step falters as his expression becomes thoughtful. "Then again, I'm never quite sure how some of these things work with me. Back in Tavalin Gorge, a hobgoblin foot soldier stabbed me right here with one of those Molthune-made spears - went in one side, clean out the other." To demonstrate, he taps an amateurishly mended section of his chain shirt on the upper left side of his ribcage - approximately where the heart would be on a normal person. "I think he was just about as surprised as I was when I got back up and cut his head off. I mean, it was a bad wound, but nowhere near as bad as it should have been - I guess we demonspawn keep our hearts somewhere else, I suppose."
Juriya gives a curt smile and responds warmly. "Sure, it shouldn't be an issue! How many goblins could even be down there like... one?" Juriya gives an over-exaggerated shrug, agreeing to help check out the problem with the area.
He politely nods at Donimah. He then eases his posture and says "Hello. It is appropriate that my knowledge would be valued by your order. I take it you are here to finally bring my theories to them?"
As chaotic as goblins are, they can be extremely sneaky. When necessary, a goblin will stay hidden for days without making a single sound.
Both Juriya and Ano both manage to see that the ground is churned up. The vault in question has its door slightly open. It is a square with 20ft sides, made of stone and sits near a wall. It is used to house the remains of previous caretakers, priests, and acolytes who served at the cathedral.
There are distinct footprints that were clearly made by goblins. However, some footprints appear to have been done by a larger humanoid.
6 goblins and one Medium humanoid climbed the wall then approached and entered the vault.
Ano's nose tells her that there are no living creatures inside the vault, but it is true that there is little air exchange from within the vault.
Arrian, if shown by Ano and Juriya where to look, will motion the others to come closer. He holds up six fingers and holds his hand closer to the ground near the smaller footprints. Near the larger prints he holds up one finger. He then motions from the wall, does 'walking fingers' to indicate walking, and then points at the vault.
Arrian is waiting to see who, if anyone, casts a spell before entering the vault.
Ano nods, and gently walks towards the vault. She keeps sniffing the air in confusion.
"Guys?" she whispered, "I don't...smell goblin in here?"
As the sheriff approaches, Persephone listens intently to his tale of goblins in the Boneyard, nodding in agreement when the others set off toward the desecrated crypt.
Flying dutifully above the Shaman, Isabel keeps hers eyes peeled for graveyard shenanigans.
As the prints are discovered just outside the entrance, the Varisian furrows her brow.
6 goblins and one Medium humanoid climbed the wall then approached and entered the vault.
She peers at the entrance.
May still be in there...
Persephone uses her eyes as they proceed...
He politely nods at Donimah. He then eases his posture and says "Hello. It is appropriate that my knowledge would be valued by your order. I take it you are here to finally bring my theories to them?"
Donimah nods.
"When I return to Riddleport, yes. I'm going to be staying here in Sandpoint for the foreseeable future, conducting an archaeological survey of Thassilonian sites in the area. Given your reputation as the local expert, I wished to coordinate my new efforts with your previous ones. You would be credited in any scholarly work I produce out of those efforts, of course."
Zeldrith enters the crypt cautiously, his blade held at the ready. "Do any of you need light, friends? I don't have much in that regard, I'm afraid."
"Wait, bigger than a Goblin? That can't be good! Fair warning the goblins can be sneaky, and I--" Juriya says in response, cutting herself short. Do not become a fox right now, idiot! Doesn't matter if it's useful to have great scent, now is NOT the time!
Brodert looks at Donimah suspiciously. He is not coy in any way to say "I hope your researching is more thorough than your fighting. You and your friends allowed goblins to burn a great deal of books yesterday evening."
He inhales deeply and continues "Very well, how do you think you can help me prove that the Sandpoint lighthouse...", at this moment, he points to the base of the lighthouse, the ancient crumbled construction by the sea in Sandpoint, and continues "... was really a tower that spewed fire at the enemies in Thassilonian times?"
Opening the vault is fairly easy. As Persephone peaks inside, she and Zeldrith have no difficulty seeing that, in the far end of the vault, three skeletons were standing doing nothing. The aggression is immediate.
The skeletons are quicker to act and less surprised by all this. Two of them charge the two at the door, while the other just walks and attacks Zeldrith.
The attacks are vicious. Persephone gets a small cut, but Zeldrith gets cut twice, one of them deep.
Juriya, slightly surprised by the Skeletons appearing, quickly jabs at what would pass for a weak point on the skeleton nearest to her. "Skeletons? Where are the Goblins?"
Juriya makes some fancy motions and stabs the skeleton, but her jab misses by an inch.
Ano was keeping her cool, and her promise she made to her mother. No more heroics means that whatever is in the vault she can’t fight, but she can protect her friends. She felt a little confident in being able to just fight defensively.
Then the skeletons pop out and attack Persephone and Zeldrith, with the latter being bloodied.
Zeldrith falling is what pushed her over the edge. Her purple spots and yellow eyes exploded in a flash of blue light, and with a primal scream, leaps into the action, getting in front of Persephone and attacking one of the skeletons.
Unfortunately she whiffs it in her blind fury.
Persephone cries out in surprise and pain, as the skeletons advance on their position!
The Shaman Steps back 5' before casting Bless!