Book 1 - The Brinewall Legacy
Part One: Fires Over Brinestump
Goblins.
Being a settlement a fair distance from what would normally be called 'Civilization', the village of Sandpoint has always had a problem with goblins. It's been an issue for most of the village's storied history to a greater or lesser extent. Up until recently, it's been the latter. However, recent reports have told that the Licktoad goblins of Brinestump Marsh have grown unusually aggressive. The reason for this uncharacteristic bravery seems clear — the goblins have somehow managed to arm themselves with what appears to be a considerable supply of fireworks. The problem stems not so much from the additional “firepower” these fireworks provide as from the inflated sense of ego and power that the devices have given the goblins — the fireworks have made them dangerously brave.
Several merchant caravans and travelers have been attacked so far, and according to the victims, the damage caused by horses panicking at the sight and sound of exploding pyrotechnics is almost as destructive as the goblin attacks themselves. With the last few attacks resulting in severe injuries to three unfortunate travelers, the problem has escalated from an annoyance to a threat. However, as none of the attacks have yet inconvenienced Magnimar, the city has been slow to react. Unwilling to idly sit by and wait for the goblin problem to escalate to actual deaths on the Lost Coast Road in order to attract Magnimar’s attention, Sandpoint’s leaders have put out the call for goblin exterminators.
Those interested in this task have been advised to appear this Oathday evening in the common room of the Rusty Dragon - the village's tavern - two days hence.
"I'm fine." the dark haired noble girl groused to her best friend in all the world, who gave her THAT LOOK on the other side of the bar counter.
"You are not" is what that look said from the raven haired owner, along with that smirk too many of her patron's swooned over.
Cailyn, the dark haired noble girl, sighed, agreeing with her friend, but still having no idea what to do about it... other than pop in her mouth another of Ameiko's succulent cheese curd artichoke hearts with just enough spice to make your eyes water.
What to do, do do do do ... Mother decided reading was not enough LIFE for her daughter, so she had been banished with a pouch full of coin to get her started. A pouch which had started to run out since she was starting nothing and hadn't been for weeks.
She knew her friend would let her stay here even without funds, but that... UGH... that was not good. That is not what friends did. And how would she buy more books if she had no money.
Pulling an errant lock of her blue black hair back over her pointed ear, she looked again at the notice tacked to the entrance of the dragon.
"Goblin exterminator does sound at least a little better than Mooching Louse." Cailyn picks up another veggie and cheese wonder, contemplates it with her bright blue eyes and added " Well, unless you are a goblin that is."
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The approachable and mostly well-liked barmaid is on shift at the Rusty Dragon again this evening. She is weaving habitually amongst the tables with hands full of drinks and meals for the patrons but she is clearly distracted as her eyes keep scanning the room looking for someone.
"She is going to miss dinner again if she doesn't hurry up soon." she mutters, as she glances over her shoulder, whilst carrying a tray of ale to the bigger table that just walked in.
Unfortunately, Flori is also not known for being the most agile, and her head snaps back around to watch where she is going just a little too late.
CRASH
She collides with the regular, sat at the bar talking to her boss and the tray of drinks clatter to the floor making an almighty mess.
"Oh Cailyn, I'm so sorry!" Flori exclaims, as she scans the disaster zone she just created. "Here, let me help you" She says, as she starts trying to dry off the half-elf.
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A barking sounds rings out from the back of the common room, where a short passageway leads past the kitchen to the tavern's small stables. Standing in the doorway is a scruffy looking figure who seems untroubled by the bits of straw in their dark hair. She (based on the length of the hair if nothing else) lets out another strange bark, which appears to be laughter, and slips between tables to start collecting the tray and tankards which Flori has just deposited all over the floor. Once she has them all, she places them on the end of the bar by the kitchen and nods to Ameiko.
"Patches is better. Thanks." She says simply, offering a quick grin which seems to be remarkably full of teeth, before turning to Flori and her ineffective wiping efforts.
"Dinner?"
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Cailyn eyes had just been turned toward the barmaid, Flori, who is bright, engaging, and know to be not the most---
Cailyn's eyes widen, a SQUEAK tries to be born as she saw the platter tilting, dropping, coming toward her ('tries' due to the delicious morsel still in her mouth), then rescues the only thing truly important from this oncoming disaster.
With unexpected reaction speed, the noble girl, grabbed the book she had been reading, a dust tome laid out on the counter, called 'Meticulous Rummaging: The Quintessential Adventuring Skill' and lifts it high over her head, JUST as the array of teas and ales dowse her expensive green day dress.
"It's okay Flori" Cailyn answers with a sigh of relief as not a drop hits the pages, (and after she finally swallows). She shows no sign about caring for the dress's state. "I am a bit wet, but..." she licks her lips, which got some dousing as well, making her eyes suddenly sparkle "Is that... honey, mint, cloves, and OH can I order one of each of the things you had on that tray and have them mixed together? Please? And are you okay?" her mind finally sees the distraction on the other woman's face.
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Vigny would probably be at the Rusty Dragon when the meeting about goblin hunting is scheduled even if she had no intention of joining up with the posse, or whatever exactly the group would be called. She's spent quite a lot of time in the place over the past few weeks.
Of course Vigny had visited every one of Sandpoint's fine establishments within two or three days after arriving in town, and in her professional opinion the Rusty Dragon didn't win every category by which a drinking establishment could be judged. But, it did win more overall than any of the other places, and it won in the ways that matter most to Vigny.
The White Deer is a very nice place, newer with the best rooms she's seen. Vigny stayed there for a few nights when she first got to town. The food is good, and the drink as well. But it's quiet. The cliental seems to lean toward travelers with money to spend who just a nice clean room and to be left to their own business. Locals don't seem to favor it unless they're old, and the owner Garridan isn't talkative or friendly. Vigny thinks she might have gotten on his nerves a few times.
Risa's Place is sort of the opposite of the White Deer, cozy if a bit cramped, fine enough food but the ale quality is lacking in her humble opinion. Risa's kids run the place, and Vigny suspects they might be watering the drinks to save on their overhead costs. Really the thing though is the place is too local, kind of clubby. She was never made to feel unwelcome, but she did sometimes feel like the regulars there were wondering when she would finally shove off and let them have the place to themselves again.
Fatman's Feedbag is trouble and that's all that matters. Vigny can read a room well enough to know it's the kind of place best avoided. It would just be a matter of time before she would wind up in a fight there, and then possibly jail. It gets more visits from the Town Watch than any other place.
The Hagfish gives The Rusty Dragon a serious run for top spot. But Vigny disqualifies it because it would be bad for her health to spend much time there. Too many sailors and other temptations to drink too much, gamble too much, and otherwise experience blurry and confusing time losses. Vigny has promised herself she will take a shot at choking down a mug of water from Norah's tank and claiming that big sack of coins for doing it. Probably it will be one of her last acts before leaving town. She knows taking the dare will likely end with a tremendous amount of vomiting and no sack of money. Vigny would rather not be around to be hear about it over and over afterward.
So all of this is why Vigny finds herself at the Rusty Dragon most of the time. The food is very good, if occasionally challenging, and so is the drink. The people are friendly in general but know how to mind their own business when it's appropriate. Good mix of locals and travelers.
Vigny would probably just get a room and move in there, but as the days have turned to weeks, she's found her purse getting light. So now instead Vigny has worked out a sort of ecumenical reciprocal arrangement with Abstalar, the Desnan priest at the cathedral. Vigny sleeps there and in return does some chores around the place. She out early each day because Abstalar likes to discuss theology and philosophy and stuff, and gods is it boring.
So, Vigny has fallen into a routine of late. Earlier up than she'd prefer, a quick round of chores, then escaping from the cathedral as soon as possible to the Rusty Dragon for the cheap breakfast. She has one mug of the good stuff, then creates her own refill of okay stuff with a whispered sentence and waggle of her fingers. Another virtue of the Rusty Dragon is the staff seems to either not notice or turn a blind eye. Vigny shows respect by sitting far enough away or in a corner so she isn't doing it right under their noses.
Afternoons are spent on walks mostly. Sometimes she goes down to the docks to watch the ships and stevedors, or out to the cliffs to look at the ocean. She has an old book she bought from The Curious Goblin when she first arrived. It's titled The Peoples of Varisia: Their Mores Traditions and Lifeways, but it must have been written over fifty years ago, and getting through a few pages is murderous. Every now and then Vigny still tries to read a little more of it.
Vigny used to window shop or browse the shops, but doing it daily tended to eventually annoy the proprietors, so not anymore. Early on she would make impulse purchases occasionally but she had to stop to save her money as time dragged on with no sign of Sandru showing up. Besides the only thing that she's still pleased to have bought is the taxidermied fox she bought at The Feathered Serpent, which she decided to name Aldo.
On this particular day nothing has been outside of some version of her ordinary routine, including presently being back at the Rusty Dragon. Vigny gave Flori, who's tending bar a wave as she arrived, and found a table far enough away from the bar so it won't be obvious she refilling her own mug. Vigny does always buy the first drink though, she has standards. Now she playing chess against herself with the board and pieces she also bought from The Feathered Serpent and waiting for the meeting to start.
Vigny is quite curious about what the sheriff or mayor or whoever will have to say about the goblin ruckus. She really could use some excitement. She's reached the point where she's beginning to wonder if coming to Sandpoint without knowing more beforehand was a stupid thing to do.
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As the afternoon of Oathday turns into evening, the crowd gathered at the Rusty Dragon feels slightly larger than normal. Those familiar with the tavern's regulars can tell that most of them have turned up to observe who would be brave (or desperate) enough to take up the town's offer.
As Flori makes her rounds lighting the lanterns for the evening, Sheriff Hemlock enters, followed closely by Mayor Deverin. The two appear to be engaged in a whispered argument as the Sheriff pulls down the notice from near the doorframe. After a bit more back and forth, he turns his back on her and makes his way to the worn bar. Grabbing a nearby empty tankard, he knocks it loudly on the bar's surface, drawing everyone's attention.
"Good Evening to all of you," he announces. "And particularly to those of you that are considering taking up our offered bounty."
Mayor Deverin glowers, but doesn't say anything.
"I'll make this quick. As the proclamation declares and as you've probably heard, we've got a problem with the Licktoad goblins in Brinestump Marsh." He pauses and looks around at the waiting group mentally dividing those attending between onlookers and those with more serious intentions. "For dealing with this specific issue," he looks pointedly at the mayor before turning back to the crowd, "The town is reinstating the bounty of ten gold per goblin ear turned in to the town hall. In addition, we will pay a bonus of three hundred gold for the head of the Licktoad's leader, Chief Gutwad."
There's some murmuring in the gathered group as well as some laughter. The mayor steps close and whispers heatedly to Sheriff Hemlock and after a sigh of resignation, he raises his hand. The murmurs quiet.
"Be advised that this isn't a lark for bored kids. Brinestump Marsh will happily eat up anyone that goes in carelessly, so, please, for everyone's sake, don't be stupid and don't go alone. Anyone planning on attempting this should get together with others. Go as a group. Work as a group." He sighs again. "Earlier this week we sent some so-called 'adventurers' out there and they haven't been seen since. But last night there were more explosions just south of town over the wetlands. We think the goblins are readying another attack. So keep your eyes open."
"The Marsh may not be as large as the Mushfens, but it's dense and tangled. It’s easy to get lost. No one’s made a really detailed map because there's been no need - there's nothing there that's worth anything. If anyone knows his way around in the marsh, it’d be Walthus Proudstump, the self-appointed 'warden' of the swamp. There's a fishing trail that leads from the Lost Coast Road directly to Walthus’s shack in the swamp. Anyone attempting this could do a lot worse than following that trail to seek out his advice."
Mayor Deverin crosses her arms and shakes her head in annoyance.
"Ameiko has generously offered the use of the Dragon's meeting room," Hemlock gestures towards a open door near the end of the bar, "So I'd suggest that anyone interested in taking up this task meet back there to coordinate with other like-minded individuals."
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Shunsen kissed her mother on the cheek and left the small cottage they shared on the outskirts of the Kaijustsu estate. She pauses a moment in the garden , admiring the Minkai way of forming the area around a home to be in harmony with nature. Her eyes settle on the carefully topiaried bushes, then the calm, contemplative rock garden, and sighs allowing the cool breeze to her brown.
Her mother had been recently putting Shunsen through more strenous routines in her dance instruction, and she could feel it in her whole body. She shook her head, that even at her age, her mother could perform all of the routines with nary a modicum of discomfort!
With rueful shake of her head, Shunsen set off down the path to Sandpoint, emerging from the trees at Boggy creek and crossing the wood bridge there. Pausing, she noticed that the ship that had brought her Riddleport 'friend' had departed in the night, hoping that they had gone as well.
Putting worrying thoughts from her mind, she enjoyed the walk in the fading night joining the Lost Coast Road as it came into Sandpoint. A couple of famimilar children were fishing from the bridge there, and seeing her initiated a common game Shunsen played with them: the would feign fear of her calling her 'tusky' and 'greeny' and she would pretend to menace them with a snarl and raised claw like hands. In their 'fright', the screamed and jumped into the water to swim away, laughing and waving at Shunsen. With a smile and a wave of her own, Shunsen continued into town, giving the two guards there a nod as when passed by.
She took an immediate right onto River Street, avoiding the Market Street, and the throng of people there. Let likely to run into someone from her past. Another left on Mud Lane soon brought her to the back door of the Rusty Dragon. As she passed by the kitchen on the way to the common room, a great crash of dishes came from ahead.
Shaking her head with a smile, Shunsen muttered, "Ah...not again Flori.".
Her assumption proved correct as she was rewarded with the scene of Orchid and Flori cleaning up, giving Ameiko behind the bar a smile as she takes the offered towel. Walking over , she then offers it to the drenched Cailyn. Smiling, she says to the kneeling Flori, "Good thing those were mostly sturdy tankards, Flori, else Ameiko might have needs to reopen the glassworks!"
---Later ----
Shunsen sits to one side of the room, listening to the good Sheriff explain the bounty. At every mention of goblin, she can feel and sometimes see the narrowed gaze of some of the townsfolk settle on her with her green skin. Even thought she's lived her most of her life, can't sway some people's prejudices.
Once Sheriff Hemlock finishes and indicates the meeting room, Shunsen nods to herself, settles her empty tankard on the table and walks directly to the room and walks inside...
Cailyn was about to respond to the strange woman she has seen and not been introduced to, about Dinner, that while a little forward she is always interested in meeting new people, even though there were two plates already before her...
Not noticing that Flori was the focus of that question.
... about to respond when there is a nice towel being offered to her "Oh, thank you." manners before dinner request, Cailyn smiles at the holder of the towel "Oh, Shunsen, very nice evening, isn't it?" Cailyn goes to get the towel but realizes she is still holding her book above her head with both hands.
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Later, still at the counter, but in a different dress and a different book, Cailyn startles at the slamming of mugs and loud accouchements by Sheriff Hemlock. With a bit of frown, Cailyn gives up her spot at the bar, and goes to the meeting room to read since it is normally empty.
Vigny gets the same feeling she always does from the sheriff as he speaks to the crowd. He doesn't seem necessarily a bad sort, but wound too tight. She's never really interacted with him beyond a 'good day to you' while passing on the street a couple of times. But, listening to him for a longer span now doesn't change her basic impression. She'd rather not spend a day in the same room with him.
She's primed to take his 'lark for bored kids' comment kind of personally, but decides maybe he literally means 13 year-olds or something that that, and lets it go. It does inhibit her just enough though for her to not rise first and wait until a couple other people at least have gotten up and started toward the meeting room before doing so herself.
The thing that really jumped out at her is the low-key but public bickering between the sheriff and the mayor.
Juicy! They were vibing like a married couple, but I don't think they are. Maybe something on the side, on the down-low though?
The thought amuses Vigny. She smiling slightly to herself as she walks into the meeting room.
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Flori's face flushed crimson after her slip up, mutters her thanks to everyone helping with the clean up and repeatedly apologises to Cailyn.
After apologising to Ameiko and replenishing the drinks she had spilled all over the floor, she returns behind the bar. She places a large bowl of piping hot stew in front of Orchid and hangs up her half-apron behind the counter.
"Thanks again for agreeing to give me an extra break for this meeting tonight Ameiko, I know its a busy night. I'll make it up to you, I promise!" She offers, her forgiving boss.
This job that the Sheriff is offering is not something that Flori was keen on, but the promise of a high reward is too much to pass up. It might mean she could pick up a few less shifts at one of her jobs for a few weeks and have a little peace to herself which she hadn't had in a long time.
Grabbing the crusty roll from the side of Orchid's bowl, with only a grin in return for her sister, she heads towards the meeting room.
Orchid has wolfed down almost half of the bowl before Flori returns and offers little more than a token growl in protest when her sister steals the roll. It's the worst bit of the meal anyway, since the stew is nice and meaty. Orchid spends a long moment looking back and forth between the back room where she knows she's supposed to go (Flori was clear with her instructions) and the bowl of stew where she wants to be.
A few seconds later she shrugs and picks up the bowl in one hand before looking over the bar to Ameiko.
"Play music tonight?" She asks hopefully. The tavern owner is a friendly sort and Orchid likes how she smells, slightly spicy and happy. She also plays a 'samson' nicely (and not too loud like most of the caravaners) so Orchid has stayed late at the Dragon most nights for the past week - waiting for Flori but also hoping that Ameiko will play. She likes the music and she often gets the leftovers from dinner too.
With her question answered Orchid continues into the backroom, taking another large mouthful of stew as she goes. Inside she slips into the corner and concentrates on the rest of her dinner. Flori is better at talking anyway!
Cailyn looks up as others come in. [i]They must have been disturbed by the interruption. She smiled at first woman, then beamed at Flori, then another more hesitant to the last. She also greeted each, as manners required. "Quite a spectacle, don't you think?" she offered in comradery.
Shunsen walks in and pauses, seeing Cailyn, Orchid and Flori...and someone new.
Raising a hand in greeting and smiling at her friends, she responds to Cailyn, "Yeah, haven't seen the Sherriff this out of sorts for some time! And the mayor...well, she's always been twitchy!"
She sits down opposite Vigny, "I've known these guys," she says indicating Cailyn, Orchid and Flori with her hand, "for sometime, some for longer than I'd care to admit!" she says smiling, brushing a few locks of her long , black hair out of her face.
"You're new to town. Seen you around here and there. My name's Shunsen, since we've never actually met face to face." she says, the green skin of her forehead moving as she consciously tried to flatten her usual intimidating frown when meeting someone new.
When the woman who is greeting people as they enter the meeting room describes the event as a 'spectacle', Vigny isn't sure how to best reply. She goes with agreement since it didn't really seem like a question.
"Yeah, this is the most excitement I've seen in the past few weeks."
Vigny gives a nod and quick smile to the rather large green woman who takes a seat across from her.
It wouldn't be hard for Shunsen to remember seeing Vigny around since she does stick out. Compared to the locals in general, Vigny is on the taller side. She's not willowy tall though, she's proportionally larger to go along with the extra height. Vigny looks sturdy, with her increased girth made up of compact muscle. She looks very fit.
Vigny's skin is fair, but not milky white pale. Her completion is ruddy, common among the Ulfen, and there's the faint hint of a few freckles across her nose and cheeks, almost faded to gone now. Her hair is light blonde with a yellowish cast, sort of buttery blonde. It falls about halfway down her back, and has a some wave in it.
Her smile widens when Shunsen mentions seeing her around a couple of times. "Same here, I've seen you around a time or two. My name's Vigny. Nice to meet you Shunsen. I'm down here from Riddleport."
Vigny's face is roundish, and her eyes are blue. She has an easygoing and friendly air about her, like her default attitude toward the people she meets is they are alright and it would take some evidence to the contrary before she changed her mind.
Looking around Vigny says "so four in all and you three know each other." Vigny doesn't include Flori in her count since she works there and must be present to take drink orders or something. "That's not many takers. Does everyone else know something I don't?"
Vigny makes the quip with a light tone, like she means it as a joke. But it's not really a joke.
Flori, relieved that Shunsen has joined the group, leans back in her chair trying to look casual and hide her nerves about the whole goblin situation.
She raises her eyebrow as she looks quizzically around the room; Maths mustn't be Vigny's strong suit but she hopes that she has some more useful skills to help with the goblin problem. "Five of us gals, that I can count. But yes, you're right, that's still not much given the pay the Sheriff is offering ain't half bad. Surprised to see you in here Cailyn, thought you'd want to spend more time finishing that book I've seen you reading."
Whilst trying to make conversation to calm her own nerves, she pulls out the chair next to her with her foot and looks pointedly at Orchid.
Orchid gives Flori a slightly pleading look and then, at her sister's insistent frown, moves forward and slouches into the chair. She's nearly finished with her bowl and when she does a few moments later, looks around for more. When none is forthcoming she sighs and slouches even more.
The assorted introductions don't seem to interest her much but it is quite apparent that Orchid is sniffing a lot, almost as though she's scenting the air each time the conversation shifts from one person to another.
When she gets to Vigny the stablehand sits up and focuses her eyes straight on the blonde. Something about the woman has attracted her attention...
As the word 'takers' is said, Cailyn's eyes widen, followed by an additional confusion clouding them as Flori adds more. Quickly the young bibliophile replays the speech outside, focusing on the parts she only half heard.
Then she realizes.
"Oh..." Cailyn closes her books with a soft thunk. "An adventure sounds pleasant." she lets out nervous laugh. She looks down though at her lap, the blue silk of her dress, the lack of weapons. "I am a decent shot with a crossbow and have a little magic as well." she missed the part on whether anyone got to go or if they had to convince people they were capable.
Another thing she does is listen and read, and while these Licktoad goblins have not made it into a compendium she has read, she does love a good story, so she thinks on them and goblins in general.
Something else fires in her brain, simple math "Flori, are you coming as well?"
Maths isn't Vigny's strong suit, along with many, many other things that involve books and sitting still. Nobody has ever claimed her to be the sharpest knife in the drawer. But, she does have ten fingers, so the confusion in this case is about something different.
While she's trying to form a tactful reply for Flori, the posh woman does it for Vigny to some extent, and to her great relief. But that still leaves the obvious following question unanswered.
Vigny can see why Shunsen is there. It's not quite so apparent with the rough looking girl, no weapons on display or anything, but Vigny senses she's a scrapper if she needs to be. The posh one, seems her name is Cailyn, has already said she works some kind of magic. That explains her, at least sort of.
As for herself, Vigny's is carrying but not wearing the tools of her trade. The belt holding the scabbards for her longsword and a very large, heavy, thick-bladed knife lies on the table beside her.
Then there's Flori. Now Vigny knows most anyone working in taverns and bars will pick up a little something about handling themself. But Flori is a pretty thing who looks like a strong gust of wind could blow her over. Vigny figures her way of handling herself is talking her way out of trouble. That is all fine with Vigny. It's the better way even since it doesn't require the application of ice packs to one's own face and body after a shift. But how well does it work for goblins in a swamp?
It's not a big sticking point for Vigny, but it could make things more interesting if she needs to keep an eye on Flori to make sure she doesn't get stuck in the gut with something sharp and pointy. Also, Vigny could be surprised by Flori. Finally, and most importantly, who is Vigny to tell anyone what they can't do?
"Oh, five then. Right."
Vigny stands and plucks the pewter tankard from the hook on the belt holding up her pants. Gesturing at each of the five's drinking vessels, Vigny recites a short phrase, "kinchit biyaram krute", and each vessel fills with beer.
"Alright then! Here's to we brave five! And here's to Cayden the Accidental God! May he show us wisdom in the bottom of a glass!"
"I'll drink to that!" Shunshen declares, taking a long pull from her own tankard.
She then looks at Flori and Orchid , asking "So, has Sandru gotten down from his highhorse since I decided to stop helping him on his caravans? " she then sighs, "They're just so boring! This goblin problem has a lot more potential!" she says, her dark eyes glittering with excitement.
Now that Vigny has a closer look at Shunshen, she can see that though her skin and small tusks and musculature obviously comes from a more sturdy and one may say monstrous heritage, the cast of her face and limbs more closely resemble that of the Rusty Dragon's owner Ameiko. There's obviously a shared heritage there.
Cailyn opened her lips to protest 'I'm an Abadarian' but shut it at the unique prospect of magically created ale. MAGICALLY CREATED! She could swoon a bit at the delight of it.
Her eyes glow like the sun at midday as she lifts, sips, tasting, swirling, then swallowing. It is simple but the novelty elevates it well past merely acceptable. She smiles at the caster, beaming even, then finishes her brew.
"Are you a priestess of the Accidental God?" she asks, after a covering of her mouth to let near silent burb.
She then looks at Flori and Orchid , asking "So, has Sandru gotten down from his highhorse since I decided to stop helping him on his caravans? "
"Don't be silly. Sandy not have high horse." Orchid says, looking up from the mug that she is examining with deep suspicion since it suddenly filled up with ale. "Nimbus is small horse. Patches much bigger." She nods firmly as though that is the last possible word on the subject. "Should remember that."
Her eyes flicker back to Vigny as she continues. "Sandy very busy. Hagfish, then Kitten. Then Hagfish again. Easy to find there. But we stay for while. Family business." The tone of the last words implies heavily that she's repeating something she's been told, rather than actually understanding it. "So come with Flori. Keep big sister safe. And eat!"
The last bit sounds like the most important part.
Shunsen smiles at Orchid, used to her occasional misunderstanding of phrases and words, and a usual avoids embarrassing her by correcting her in public. Later, in private she'll try to explain what she meant.
Leaving that for the moment, she nodded at Vigny, "A fine brew indeed...I must say Cayden's a fine brewer!" she says, taking another sip. Then she frowns, her face taking on a decidedly more unfriendly mien, however unintentional, "I'm sorry, I hope I didn't just insult your god, Vigny!"
A jolt runs through Vigny when she hears the name 'Sandru'. She doesn't react visibly, but it's very exciting. After a sip from her cup, Vigny answers Cailyn with a big grin.
"I sure am! I was orphaned when I was young and the Caydinites in Riddleport took me in. When I was old enough, I joined up. It just seemed natural, you know? I needed to give back."
Vigny is puzzled by Shunsen's sudden apology. "How? Why? I mean I don't know first hand, but I'm sure Cayden Cailean is excellent at brewing if he wants to be. He's a god."
Raising her tankard for emphasis she continues.
"If you think this is pretty good, just know that this is basic utility ale, for emergencies or spur of the moment. If you really want to try the good stuff, go to the ale-church in Riddleport if you're ever there. The hand-crafted brews there will absolutely floor you! I mean that literally; be careful or your day after will be miserable."
With that done, Vigny thinks she's let enough time go by so that asking about Sandru can seen casual.
"Sandru... I know someone by that name, Sandru Vhisky. He owns a caravan. Is he who you're talking about?"
Vigny's voice suggests a combination of 'shot in the dark here, but...' and 'what a crazy coincidence'.
Before anyone can respond to Vigny's entirely casual question, Sheriff Hemlock appears in the partially open doorway. Taking in the five women in the room, he nods to himself in seeming satisfaction.
"Ladies," he says as a greeting with a glance back over his shoulder. "I want to thank you all for taking on this task. Sandpoint would be better off if more of its citizens would step up when a need appears." A slight grin appears on his face. "And I'm sure that the coin offered helped."
He steps into the room and his voice lowers.
"I'm hoping that you're successful and return back to town safely with a bag full of goblin ears. The Mayor doesn't feel that a general call like this is the best way to accomplish the task at hand. She's worried that you're going to go out there and get yourselves killed." His grin fades and his tone grows more serious. "Try not to do that."
He claps a hand on Shunsen's shoulder and turns to leave. Stopping in the doorway, he turns back.
"A couple of last bits of advice; Stick to the trails - it is really easy to get lost in there. And I can't emphasize enough how useful inside information will be - Just because Walthus only takes a bath twice a year doesn't mean that he's not a treasure trove of information about the swamp. I would take tomorrow morning to gather any supplies you think you might need and head out before lunch. And, again, don't die."
With that nugget of wisdom dispensed, he disappears back out into the common room.
In, out, without a question, miniscule connection. Almost like her mother, just slightly warmer. Cailyn muses.
"Don't die seems like good advice." Cailyn says in a wry tone, but with enough nervous energy around it, anyone reasonable empathic would understand she says it to settle herself. Tomorrow does seem ridiculous as a timeframe. She had hoped to purchase a book on the bog, research it, but nope.
"Meet here in morning." Orchid says, springing up from the table like an unleashed hound. "Early. When opens. Breakfast. Then go." With that she's out of the door, stew bowl in hand and can soon be found in the corner of the bar, empty bowl placed hopefully in front of her as she relaxes and eyes Ameiko's samsen where it hangs behind the bar.
Vigny watches Sheriff Hemlock go, then comments "Cheery fellow isn't he? That was an inspiring talk."
She probably intended sarcasm, but Vigny seems to lack the ability to adopt the acerbic tone needed to be clear about her intent.
She also watches Orchid's abrupt and rather dramatic departure. Afterward she has to ask "is she... you know, alright?" with complete sincerity.
Cailyn's brows furrow, nodding along with Vingy's question, then looks to Flori (who she didn't know had a SISTER) "She doesn't mean, 'then go', does she? Besides all the you might die, don't die, please bring sacks of ears, the Sherriff did say something about talking with this smelly Walthus, didn't he? We should do that, before 'then go'. I think, at least."
Shunsen finishes off her tankard of magical brew and lets out not so quiet burp, "The sheriff sure has a way with words. Great advice , too! " she says laughing .
"Oh, Orchid? Yeah, she's fine. Not the greatest talker but a good friend to have." she says to Vigny.
She ponders the rest of Cailyn's question, "I think the old guy lives in the swamp, we'll have to go find him..." she offers, checking her own memory about ol' Walthus.
With a shrug, maybe Ameiko or someone else knows more about the guy she thinks, before saying, "Come , Vigny. Let's sup and drink together a bit, get to know each other a bit. Cailyn, Flori, let's join Orchid out there and introduce Vigny to some of Ameiko's fine cooking. Orchid's probably out there pining away for Ameiko to play some music...."
"Oooh" the normally smart young woman says as the pieces connect from half heard conversations. "Dinner does sound lovely." which is truly more important anyway. "Do anyone know if we should purchase any particulars for our journey?"
You spend a bit more time planning before breaking up for the evening, each of you going your separate ways to make your own individual preparations for the challenge you've accepted.
The common room of the Rusty Dragon is a source of numerous offers for free drinks for those bravely volunteering to confront the goblins in the swamp and Ameiko even takes up her samsen to play a stirring ballad of bravery in their honor. Eventually, though, the festivities end and nothing remains but the early morning and the task at hand.
-------
Fireday, 17th of Desnus, 4711 AR
Gathering again at the Rusty Dragon, the group is given a hastily sketched map of the area surrounding Brinestump Marsh with the three easiest possible ways to enter marked on it.
Option one is the recommended method. In spite of the marsh's reputation, many local fishermen swear by the fine fishing to be had there. The northernmost marked trail is used to access the best fishing holes. This trail also leads to Walthus Proudstump's shack.
Option two leads to the shore of Sog's Bay. This trail was used for fishing, but now stops at the Licktoad village. Since the goblins moved in, use of the trail has dropped off and now most of the fishermen use the northern trail.
Option three exists, but when asked about it, most folks recommend avoiding the southernmost trail . This trail is said to lead to the dismal home of Old Megus the Swamp Witch.
You head out of Sandpoint with confidence and less than two hours of steady marching along the Lost Coast Road leads you to the first of the indicated trails that lead into the marsh. The sky has been clear and the weather cool, but a haze hangs over the marsh itself and you can see that visibility will drop once you descend the thirty or forty feet into the overgrown greenery below.
A subtle tension eases out of Orchid as the group leaves town. Her appearance suggests a night spent in the stables and she was definitely at the Rusty Dragon later than anyone else recalls, but for all that she seems positively cheerful the next morning. Something about being back on the road obviously agrees with her.
Having studied the map at length when first given it Orchid shows no more interest in the paper but sets her course towards the most commonly used path , before stopping briefly to check over her shoulder that the rest of the group is coming with her.
After a late night finishing her shift at the Tavern and a night tossing and turning with worry, Flori does not look as fresh faced or well-turned-out as usual as she follows along behind Orchid, hair tied up in a messy bun and wearing some of her trusty old leather boots that clearly should have been replaced years ago.
Having double checked the map, she nods in approval when her sister heads towards the fishing routes leading to Walthus' shack. Flori tried helping with fishing once or twice but didn't see how anyone would enjoy the process.
"Lovely day" Cailyn says to brighten the day. She feels the need, since trudging step by step on foot with a bulging pack is far from bright. Cheery words to do battle with aching feet. At least her cheer seems to be affecting Orchid, which makes Cailyn feel rather proud.
Her normal silk dresses has been replaced with a well tailored adventuring clothing, all new. And she purchased a Bedroll of all things, a soft down with significant embroidery. Also a parasol since the sun is a rather evil thing.
She does look like someone going on a jaunt to the summer woods on their estate, not hunting goblins. Other than the rather large crossbow slung on her back. That looks well cared for, but worn and deadly.
"Is this the way to Walthus?" she asks to keep up conversation "I did buy nose plugs."
Deciding to take the recommended trail, you leave the Lost Coast Road and begin the descent into the marsh. The well-used trail drops down in cut steps and narrow switchbacks into the oppressive greenery of the Brinestump Marsh. Very quickly you're surrounded by thick cypress and eucalyptus trees, along with a scattering of oaks and willows. Numerous birds and other wildlife fill the air with calls and cries of various sorts. Water drips from most surfaces and the humidity presses in upon you like a hot, thick, wet blanket. Movement away from you in the underbrush makes it clear that you're the intruder here.
After what feels like forever, but was probably less than an hour, you reach one of the waterways that meanders through the thick brush. The trail crosses the slow-moving water via a treacherous looking wooden bridge with no railings. Heavily moss-grown and missing a plank or two, this looks to be the only way to cross, barring swimming. As something large slips into the water from the other side, swimming looks even less like an option.
"Stay!" Orchid commands and sets out to cross the bridge. She has a spear, a simple wooden shaft with a small metal head, which she uses to test the planks before stepping on them. Despite the slow progress her steps are smooth, balanced and remarkably quiet.
Though Ameiko let's her keep her pack at the Rusty Dragon, Shunsen returned home after a night of drink and food and music. She collects a few things and looks in on her sleeping mother before retiring herself.
She has no trouble sleeping, not being nervous about the upcoming adventure. Whether tomorrows adventure leads to the unknown outside of Sandpoint...or her body moldering in the mire, she'll let fate determine that. Though, she vastly prefers the former outcome!
Along the way, Shunsen smiles agreement to Cailyn's comment about the day, "That is it, Cailyn! Let's hope it holds that way." she says, then jogs a bit to catch up with Orchid, not letting her get too far ahead.
Once they enter the marsh, her scouting habits take over, as she scans left, right, up , down, keeping track of the noises around them for danger.
At the bridge, she's about to recommend caution, when Orchid steps out.
Shunsen moves to the edge of the bridge, ready to assist if need be, watching that animal in the water and the area for other dangers.
The bridge sinks under Orchid's weight, but seems to stay intact reaching an equilibrium at just under the surface of the murky water. Other than her boots getting wetter than normal, there doesn't seem to be any immediate danger that either Orchid or Shunsen can detect.
Over the next two hours, you cross two more similar bridges before reaching, what you assume, is your initial destination. A muddy trail leads up to a swampy lagoon. The open ocean is visible just beyond these shallow waters, while an old two-story building, its walls soggy with moss and its roof sagging with age, sits on the lagoon’s eastern shore.
Vigny stays a while, having something to eat and a couple more drinks and chatting with Shunsen and Cailyn. She doesn't stay overlong since tomorrow morning will be an early one. Her great frustration is never getting any answer about who their Sandru is. It's the sheriff's fault for interrupting when he did. Vigny doesn't bring it up again later though because her persistence regarding the subject might seem weird.
The next morning Vigny begs off doing any chores at the cathedral since goblin hunting really ought to count as 'service' anyway. She stops and buys a flask of liquid fire from a shop names Bottled Solutions, spending way more for it than she can really afford.
The journey to Brinestump Marsh goes fine, Vigny doesn't even fully suit up in her maille until it's time to enter the marsh. Travel through the marsh teaches Vigny something new about herself. She is very much a city girl. The coast road was a nice walk, but the marsh isn't. It's soggy and squishy and gross. Maybe she can do without too much nature in her life.
When they finally make it to what is probably Walthus's house, she looks at it with some disappointment. It looks like it's about to fall down. It might even be just more marsh inside. Unsure what the proper etiquette is for hailing swamp hermits, Vigny asks the others. Maybe Orchid will know.
"So, do we go up and knock on the door, or shout for him from here because there are snares and traps all around the place?"
Flori stops cautiously in her tracks and throws out her hand to stop anyone else behind her, surveying the land ahead as Vigny mentions snares and traps, trying to see what she sees.
"I suppose that he doesn't get many visitors out here, and someone striding right up to his door and knocking would cause him quite a scare." She pauses thoughtfully for a moment. "I don't believe I've ever seen him about town but I'm sure he will see us and realise who we are?"
Flori looks around for approval from the others before she does anything drastic.
Vigny shrugs a 'sure, I guess, why not?' shrug at Flori.
"If you want to go knock, I'll go with you. Just watch where you're stepping. I'm sure there must be snares and traps. I mean the guy's a swamp hermit. What else is he gonna do when he gets tired of fishing and watching the moss grow?"
Vigny lowers her voice when saying the last part, just in case Walthus can hear them and might think it's a bit rude. No doubt the unwashed while surrounded by water old coot is actually living a dynamic and fulfilling life.
Cailyn stops, thankfully, next to Flori. "Sounds... like a good... plan." she huffs a little, letting her pack thud to the ground. And retrieves her crossbow (but doesn't load it). "People live out in the middle of no where for reasons, so I'd imagine those reasons don't always include loving company." the stop has let her catch her breath.
She lifts two sets of colored wax. "For your noses" she answers when they look at her with confusion.
Even though she is a pose noble girl that had meant to live off her parents fortune for the rest of her life, she does understand simple tactics thanks to her father's insistent and LOTS of reading. So she will stay with her crossbow in the back, keeping watch.
Shunsen looks at the dilapidated house , arms akimbo, then her gaze drifts off to the nearby sea.
"Well, that's been there a while...looks like it's about to fall in on itself. Let's see if anyone's home." she says, nodding at the other's comments as well.
She walks up to what she assumes is the front door, keeping an eye out on the nearby swamp and the house itself.
As the group looks around warily, the sounds of the marsh and the shush-shush of the waves on the nearby shore continue on undisturbed.
There's initially silence in response to Shunsen's knock. But after a moment, the door opens slightly to reveal the unshaven and dirty face of a halfling.
"Yes? What is it? I'm not ready for visitors today. The house is a mess. No tea. No biscuits."
"Mr Walthus, my name is Flori. We're here on strong recommendations of the Sheriff back in Sandpoint. He said you might be able to give us some advice about the swamp? We'd very much appreciate it if you could share your expertise." Flori calls back, hoping to inflate his ego slightly.
The halfling looks Flori up and down and then takes a longer look at the others.
"Advice?" he echoes back, returning his attention to Flori. "My first suggestion would be to leave. My second would be to never visit someone without bringing the host a gift - biscuits are always appropriate. My third would be to not drink the water. Now is there anything else I can do for you or will you leave me in peace?"
Walthus is in physical pain and he looks as though he's suffered recent physical trauma.
Vigny notices Walthus's problem and suggests a solution to get them in the door.
"It looks like you've been hurt? I get it. I wouldn't want to play host while in pain either. But, today is lucky for you and for us. Let me take a look at your injuries and I can fix you up. I'm quite good at doing that you know."
"In return, how about you help us out with what you know about the marsh, especially the goblins here. If you'll let us sleep inside here tonight, I can take another look at you tomorrow morning to see if things are coming along well, or you might need a little treatment. What do you say?"
Flori's eyes widen for a moment and smiles apologetically as she realises they have indeed misread the entire situation and should have asked the Sheriff more about Walthus before they left.
Knowing that she is probably not the best to carry on with the conversation, Flori tries to make small talk whilst hoping someone - anyone - will save the situation.
"Ah yes, biscuits are indeed always appropriate but I fear the only biscuits we have available are dry travelling crackers. I do have some rather wonderful - if two day old - fruit loaf wrapped up here if you'd like. Goes fantastically with a cup of tea, if you would like?"
She starts to rifle through her pack, looking for the slab of fruit loaf she had wrapped up for snacking later.
Orchid, lingering at the back of the group, frowns at what little she sees of the halfling and starts making her way around the hut. As she goes her nose becomes a little longer and she takes deep breaths of the moisture-laden air.