Shalelu looks at the group, with a cold light in her eyes. "Hemlock tells me you already withstood an attack by all of these tribes. They left many wounded and dead in Sandpoint, it's too early for them to try another."
As the party passes along the token with the seven jagged points, she examines it closely. "I have not seen it's like, but I don't believe it belongs to the Seven Tooth goblins. They normally have a string of teeth for their totem. Did you find strings with teeth among the dead goblins?"
Her eyes show a pale fire as you mention a human or elf working with the tribes. "They have never been organized to work together before. I guessed someone or something was banding them together, but they must be powerful and persuasive indeed to get these disparate tribes to work together. As chaotic as the little runts are, they can barely pull of inter-tribal activities, let alone complex plans on a large scale."
"I will ride to check out the tribe nearest first, but I don't expect to find much here. The closest tribes are the least war-like usually. Perhaps it will turn something else interesting up. I plan to come back and report when my reconnaissance is done."
She rises, clearly preparing to depart for the rode, her discomfort with sitting still and inside for so long, readily apparent.
"Are there any more questions?"
"As I said, there are five major goblin tribes near here." says the cold ranger. "The nearest of them are the Birdcruncher's who live in caves along the western edge of The Devil's Platter. The 'Cruncher's are usually not very aggressive."
"To the south are the Licktoad goblins of the Brinestump Marsh. They are led by Rendwattle Gutwad, their obese chieftain. There is also Vorka, a goblin cannibal who also lives in the Brinestump but away from the rest of the tribe."
"East of town are the Seven Tooth goblins of Shank's Wood. These are often seen raiding Sandpoint's junkyard and refuse pile scrounging for food and weapons. Their champion, Koruvus, is well-known for his short temper and prized possession - a human-sized longsword said to be magical. Supposedly, Koruvus has disappeared after finding a "secret hideout" in a cave along the cliffs."
"Farther east are the Mosswood goblins, the largest tribe, but unusually susceptible to in-fighting . Their leader is Big Gugmurt who is tall as a man, and quite muscular."
"The final tribe is the Thistletop Tribe. They live on a small island off the coast of the Nettlewood which is only accessible by a rope bridge. Their chief is Ripnugget and he is probably the canniest of the tribal leaders, reveling in his easily defensible little island."
"Lastly, there is Bruzathamus. He is a bugbear, larger cousin of the goblins, and he has been terrorizing travelers and merchants along the Lost Coast Road. He hates elves in general and me in particular. We have skirmished many times, but neither of us has gained the upper hand so far."
She points her finger on the map at each place, showing the locations to you as she speaks. Finally, she looks up. "As you can see, the goblins are all around you, and they are stirred up."
After the introductions are made, Shalelu unrolls a map of the lands around Sandpoint and addresses you, speaking in a clear voice, her words clipped and not wasteful.
"Belor's told me of your work against the goblins—well done. I've dedicated the last several years of my life to keeping them from causing too much trouble around these parts, but they’re tenacious and fecund little runts. Like weeds that bite."
"Anyway, there's five major goblin tribes in the region, and, traditionally,they’re pretty good at keeping each other in line with inter-tribal squabbles and the like. Yet from what I've been able to piece together, members of all five tribes were involved in the raid on Sandpoint. A fair amount of the Mosswood tribe goblins I dealt with yesterday were already pretty beat up, and there was a lot of chatter about the 'longshanks' who killed so many of them. Now that I've met you, it seems obvious from their descriptions who they were talking about. Seems like you've made an impression."
"In any event, the fact that the five tribes are working together disturbs me. Goblin tribes don’t get along unless they've got something big planned, and big plans require big bosses. I’m afraid that someone’s moved in on the goblins and organized them. And judging by these recent raids,what they’re organizing seems like bad news for all of us."
To Dolgrin: "Aye, the sheer numbers are a part of it. The stories from goblin captives since, and the varied totems found on dead goblins tell us that several tribes were involved in the raid.
To Aleksander:It is true the goblins wear totems tying them to their tribe, but I have not seen this rune totem before. Where did you acquire it?" When you explain it came from a goblin in the Sandpoint Raid, she says: "It is not a totem of any of the five tribes I know of, unless they have changed? Odd that..."
"Goblins have always been out there, but have never attacked this settlement in force. Something stirred them to it. If you say it was a half-elf that's no less likely than I would guess. I do not know who this suspect might be, but aim to find out. "Find out what you can about this mystery man in town, and I will start sniffing around the goblin's lairs. I will start with the Birdcrunchers and Licktoads since they are closest."
"Necromancy is not common among goblins. They shun the written word, so learning is difficult in goblin tribes. Most necromancy wizards or clerics are learned in some way, and the powerful magics are avoided by goblin kind."
Hearing your request to interrogate the goblin prisoners she says:"That should've been done already, and now there is no time. Take the ranger Daviren Hosk with you, he can handle the emotions of the situation."
Gudada, feel free to play out your encounter as you like, we'll just move ahead to the Shalelu luncheon.
Eventually, all of you meet back up at the Rusty Dragon for lunch. Shalelu comes down from her slumber at exactly the appointed time, looking refreshed. She still carries her distant, cold manner however. She hugs Ameiko, it's clear they are old friends, but the Tien bard does not stick around long.
As Bethany lays out lunch, Shalelu unrolls a map of the areas around Sandpoint for your reference, she then begins speaking.
"Since you are now Hemlock's latest goblin-slayers, I am glad you came for this briefing. I wanted to give you a little more background on the goblins in the area."
"There are five major goblin tribes operating in the region. The closest to Sandpoint are the Birdcrunchers who live along the western edge of Devil's Platter, here." She indicates the portion of the map. "These guys have been around for years, but have never been aggressive to settlements before."
"There is also the Licktoad Goblins of the Brinestump Marsh. Their chief is obese monster called Rendwattle Gutwad. He is so fat it is said he never leaves the throne. These pests are good swimmers, and have been known to waylay caravans on the Road from time to time."
"To the east are the Seven Tooth goblins of Shank's Wood. If you look close you may see them raiding the junk and garbage piles at the bottom of the cliff near the Old Light. They had a champion named Koruvus, who used a man-sized longsword, but rumor has it he found a cave to hideout in, and hasn't come out."
"Farther east are the Mosswood Goblins, led by a tall muscular beast named Big Gugmut. This is the largest tribe, and the most aggressive, but they fight more among themselves than against any farms or towns."
"Finally, the Thistletop Goblins, led by Ripnugget a fierce chieftan. Their lair is on an island near the Nettlewood coast which some say bears resemblance to a decapitated head."
"As if that weren't enough, there's also Bruzathamus. That bugbear ranger has a particular hatred for elves, and he and i have scrapped many times in the past. I promise he'll fall to my arrows sooner or later. He leads a small group of outcasts and they often raid caravans or farms taking what they want by force and using violence indiscriminately."
"Now, I must get back on the road, but have a few moments to spare as Lars and Hosk prepare my mount. Since you're the newest crop of goblin-slayers I want you to be fully informed, ask me what questions you have."
I added Shalelu's Map to the Campaign Tab for your future reference
As you are wrapping up, Shalelu address you: "I would dine with you and your companions this noon after I have rested. Would you care to meet me at the Rusty Dragon where my friend Ameiko keeps a renowned kitchen? I would impart more knowledge and lore regarding local goblins to you then."
Sorry, that's a lot to download all at once. Save questions for Shalelu for the luncheon. If you have questions for the mayor or Sheriff shoot them. Otherwise describe how you spend your time between mid-morning and lunch time now that you're the law in these here parts...
Shalelu says: "Belor’s told me of your work against the goblins —well done. I’ve dedicated the last several years of my life to keeping them from causing too much trouble around these parts, but they’re tenacious and fecund little runts. Like weeds that bite."
"Anyway, there’s five major goblin tribes in the region, and, traditionally, they’re pretty good at keeping each other in line with inter-tribal squabbles and the like. Yet from what I've been able to piece together, members of all five tribes were involved in the raid on Sandpoint. A fair amount of the Mosswood tribe goblins I dealt with yesterday were already pretty beat up,and there was a lot of chatter about the ‘long-shanks’ who killed so many of them. Now that I've met you, it seems obvious from their descriptions who they were talking about. Seems like you've made an impression."
"In any event, the fact that the five tribes are working together disturbs me. Goblin tribes don’t get along unless they've got something big planned, and big plans require big bosses. I’m afraid that someone’s moved in on the goblins and organized them. And judging by these recent raids,what they’re organizing seems like bad news for all of us."
If no other questions, she mounts and gallops for Tanner's Bridge and the road to Devil's Platter.
If you have other questions, LMK
Shalelu looks you over grimly. "I will be riding to the nearest tribes before checking on Thistletop, but yes if Hemlock returns you can check it out. If you want to meet with me, have the Sherriff send word and I will come if I am able."
"I knew the old priest but did not know him well. He died in the fire that consumed the church, such things happen and are unfortunate but not mysterious. I do not know why someone would want his bones; that is a bad omen indeed."
"From what I knew of him, Tobyn was not the type to attract enemies. Could someone have a hatred for Desna? There are foes of Good everywhere, so it is possible, but such a force is not known to me at present nor has it shown itself in the years since Father Tobyn's death."
Her eyes turn even colder (if that's possible) as she glares at Rogar. "The only thing ten dwarves would finish is a cask of ale, and that right quick. You are more than welcome to bring your kin and deal with our problem and I can retire in luxury."
Relocating to Nashville at end of July. Lived there for 7 years before Houston area for last two with new hospital start-up. Back to Corporate office in Franklin. Have found a rental house, and the wife is thinking to build this time. LIkely a promotion out of the deal as well. Where are you?
Shalelu agrees with Cadas. "Bruzathamus is a pirate and a troublemaker but he is not smart enough to organize the chaotic goblin tribes. He's also been operating in this area for years and not done so before. He is an unlikely suspect (at least for this). The cold fire burns more fiercely in her eyes as she discuss her arch-nemesis the bugbear.
"Thistetop is on an island at the far end of the Nettlewood. That wood is difficult to navigate and as the name implies full of stinging plants. I have seen Thistletop once before, but it was from a distance. The goblin lair is atop the island which has sheer cliff on the sides and is 100 ft or more in the air, so approaching by sea would be difficult. There is, I believe, a bridge which connects the island to the main-land. I do not know more than that so far."
"I cannot confirm that your mystery man lives among the Thistletop tribe; he could easily be with any of the five. I am heading to check out the closest first, Birdcrunchers and Licktoad tribes. But will get to Moss and Nettlewoods eventually."
"I have not seen this rune totem before. Where did you acquire it?" When you explain it came from a goblin in the Sandpoint Raid, she says: "It is not a totem of any of the five tribes I know of, unless they have changed? Odd that..."
Shalelu turns her cold eyes on the dwarven ranger:"The Nettlewood is dangerous and hard to navigate. I have only seen the Thistletop Island once, and that from a distance. It is not far from the mainland, a hundred feet or so as I recall, and I believe there was a bridge connecting them. It could be approached by sea, but the island is raised on a cliff and that approach may be treacherous."
"It is possible that your mystery man is not even at Thistletop, but with one of the other tribes or elsewhere. I will find that out with time. You should await the return of Hemlock, but I will not stop you."
To Aziza: "You are right. If you go into any goblin lair, prepare for a fight, there will be dozens of goblins inside and they are devious and cunning little rodents and will fight hard to protect their nests."
"Thank you for your blessings. The road is long and difficult, but I hope to see you all again under happier circumstances, when these troubles are behind us."
With that, she mounts her horse and gallops off for Tanner's bridge and the road towards Devil's Platter.
If you have morning missions to complete, let me know, otherwise we'll move forward to luncheon.
Soon, you all meet back up at the Rusty Dragon for lunch. Shalelu comes down from her slumber at exactly the appointed time, looking refreshed. She still carries the distant and cold manner however. She hugs Ameiko, it's clear they are old friends, but the Tien bard does not stick around long, claiming business outside the inn.
As Bethany lays out lunch, Shalelu unrolls a map of the areas around Sandpoint for your reference, she then begins speaking.
"I am glad you came for this briefing. I wanted to give you a little more background on the goblins in the area."
"There are five major goblin tribes operating in the region. The closest to Sandpoint are the Birdcrunchers who live along the western edge of Devil's Platter, here." She indicates the portion of the map. "These guys have been around for years, but have never been aggressive to settlements before."
"There is also the Licktoad Goblins of the Brinestump Marsh. Their chief is obese monster called Rendwattle Gutwad. He is so fat it is said he never leaves the throne. These pests are good swimmers, and have been known to waylay caravans on the Road from time to time."
"To the east are the Seven Tooth goblins of Shank's Wood. If you look close you may see them raiding the junk and garbage piles at the bottom of the cliff near the Old Light. They had a champion named Koruvus, who used a man-sized longsword, but rumor has it he found a cave to hideout in, and hasn't come out."
"Farther east are the Mosswood Goblins, led by a tall muscular beast named Big Gugmut. This is the largest tribe, and the most aggressive, but they fight more among themselves than against any farms or towns."
"Finally, the Thistletop Goblins, led by Ripnugget a fierce chieftan. Their lair is on an island near the Nettlewood coast which some say bears resemblance to a decaptiated head."
"As if that weren't enough, there's also Bruzathamus. That bugbear ranger has a particular hatred for elves, and he and i have scrapped many times in the past. I promise he'll fall to my arrows sooner or later. He leads a small group of outcasts and they often raid caravans or farms taking what they want by force and using violence indiscriminately."
"Now, I must get back on the road, but have a few moments to spare as Lars and Hosk prepare my mount. Since you're the newest crop of goblin-slayers I want you to be fully informed, ask me what questions you have."
"Hmmm. I remember the old priest and of course I remember the fire, but I do not know about this daughter you speak of. What do you know of her? Your guess strikes me as far-fetched but it is possible, I suppose."
"Find out what you can about this mystery man in town, and I will start sniffing around the goblin's lairs. I will start with the Birdcrunchers and Licktoads since they are closest."
"I will ride soon unless you have other questions. You have done well so far." This is the height of praise considering the source. Shalelu makes ready to depart as Daviren Hosk comes in announcing her horse is saddled and ready outside.
BTW, Father Zantus is still very much alive (so far...) The old priest is Ezakian Tobyn. Don't sweat it...
Shalelu turns her cold eyes on Barek sizing him up. "You say a man united the goblins? I had wondered what the catalyst for their dropping their normal internecine ways and working together was. These are chaotic beasts, anyone who can hold them together must be powerful or have strong motivations. What was in this grave you speak of? Are we dealing with a necromancer here?"
Sorry I got the idea to build a Shalelu alias after posting the wall of text above. Don't sweat it Thorn let's just say your intent was clear to all. They won't hold it against you, i bet.
As you are wrapping up, Shalelu address you: "I wish to dine with you this noon after I have rested. Meet me at the Rusty Dragon, where my friend Ameiko keeps a renowned kitchen. I would impart more knowledge and lore regarding local goblins to you there."
This is her method of asking, but it feels more like telling. She doesn't wait for a response, but shoulders her pack and walks off into towards the Dragon.
Shalelu says: “Belor’s told me of your work against the goblins —well done. I’ve dedicated the last several years of my life to keeping them from causing too much trouble around these parts, but they’re tenacious and fecund little runts. Like weeds that bite." the first hint of what might be called a smile plays around the line of her mouth. It doesn't last long.
“Anyway, there’s five major goblin tribes in the region, and, traditionally, they’re pretty good at keeping each other in line with intertribal squabbles and the like. Yet from what I’ve been able to piece together, members of all five tribes were involved in the raid on Sandpoint. A fair amount of the Mosswood tribe goblins I dealt with yesterday were already pretty beat up,and there was a lot of chatter about the ‘longshanks’ who killed so many of them. Now that I’ve met you, it seems obvious from their descriptions who they were talking about. Seems like you’ve made an impression."
“In any event, the fact that the five tribes are working together disturbs me. Goblin tribes don’t get along unless they’ve got something big planned, and big plans require big bosses. I’m afraid that someone’s moved in on the goblins and organized them. And judging by these recent raids,what they’re organizing seems like bad news for all of us.”
She sits back down. Cold and hard, all business.
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