Andwell removes the Goblins skull helmet, and sees if it will fit into his backpack.
looking up to the others; If more of this Goblins tribe causes trouble, this might come in handy. You never know when impersonating one of them might be useful
Andwell then starts going through the belongings of the various downed Goblins, looking for anything useful, interesting or valuable.
Borhald finishes hog-tying the goblin leader, and nods as if to himself as he hears his companions speak of the goblin-dog's fate. He draws his blade once more, his face grim and pale, with a haunted look in his eye. Muttering something that sounds like 'painless', he places the tip of his sword at the creature's neck and thrusts deeply into it's chest in a single fluid move.
Once the deed is done, the gruff man blinks his eyes a couple of times... To shake a slight moisture away, perhaps? But he otherwise holds his peace.
You are unable to distinguish which tribe they are from.
Once the goblins are dealt with and the dog is put down, the man behind the barrels emerges. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" he says. "I owe you my life! I have nothing on me to thank you. But, I'll be in town for just a few more days, staying at the Rusty Dragon Inn. If you have a moment in the coming days, stop by. I'd love to talk with you more and reward you properly for saving my life."
He turns to Viorela, saying, "And you! My dear, your beauty combined with your prowess in battle - who has seen such a combination? Oh…forgive me…I am Aldern Foxglove. And you are?"
Aldern isn't alone in profusely thanking your party. Many others come out from their hiding places to thank and congratulate you on your bravery. In particular, Father Zantus is grateful. "You have done us a great service, heroes. Please, tell us all, what are your names, so that we may thank you personally."
Viorela stands for a moment, observing the halfling stow the filthy helmet away in his backpack.
Only a halfling would see something so dirty as being of worth...
She turns to address the man they saved, blushing when her beauty is mentioned. Viorela curtsies again in her dress, her hand continuing to cover the tear - seeming to imply that if her hand covers it, it really isn't there.
"Thank you for your kind words," she smiles.
Where is my aunt? Or the sheriff for that matter? I hope they are alright...
Viorela looks about distractedly for a sign of where any other battles may have taken place.
"We are not but able folk who happened to be in the right place at the right time good Father. As to our names, we are Borhald Threndor, Andwell Tactfoot, Viorela, Vors Malcroft, Vestad Karn, and I am Tosh Besnik."
Borhald, still looking slightly sad, nods politely when Tosh makes the introductions. He then seems to notice Viorela's discomfort, and wordlessly reaches to the top of his pack, where he had stowed his hooded cloak of forest green. He hands the rolled-up cloak to the magus with a wink.
The ranger then nods politely to the other well-wishers, obviously unused to the attention, as he makes his way to Vors. He claps the paladin on the shoulder. "I am glad she is safe, friend.
Vors smiles in reply.
"Aye, me too. I'm glad you were here. You're quite the warrior."
Vors pushes his hair back with a hand and looks around.
"We should talk to the Sheriff as well. He might have more news and would want to know what went on here."
Andwell stands with his brethren, proud to be counted among the heroes.
He is content to listen and observe, letting the leader types speak for the group. All the while listening and looking for anything or anyone that seem out of place.
As the crowd comes closer Vestad speaks up over the crowd. "If you are injured come close please. I bring the blessed healing of Sarenrae." Turning to Father Zantus, "if you would like to aid me, please feel free."
Vestad begins a short prayer of healing, knitting together broken wounds with wisps of cool, translucent flame.
Channel, excluding the knocked out goblin:
Foxglove persists with Viorela. "Please my dear. Don't be so modest. You were...amazing. Simply...glorious. You must let me show my appreciation for your prowess and undeniable beauty. I look forward to seeing you at the Rusty Dragon in the coming days." He takes her hands, plants a long kiss on it and winks as he strides off confidently.
Many gather around Vestad - more out of curiosity and awe than a need for healing.
After a few minutes of being congratulated and adored by the crowd, you hear a voice rise above all the others. "Viorela?! Viorela? Are you safe?" Breaking through the crowd, you see Mayor Deverin. She rushes to Viorela, embracing her in a hug. "I've heard already. You and your - friends? - are to thank for saving our town from the goblins."
Turning to the rest of you, her face breaks into a wide smile of gratitude. "Thank you all. There are no words or gestures to adequately express our gratitude. Though, if you are only visiting, I hope that you will stay in town to allow us to try."
As the mayor is speaking, there is a sputtering. Turning, you see that the goblin is beginning to awaken. It struggles against its bonds as it says, "O dhel'dec kuukac. Kaar ghaan dhaan or mech ghaan."
the goblin is beginning to awaken. It struggles against its bonds as it says, "O dhel'dec kuukac. Kaar ghaan dhaan or mech ghaan."
Andwell listens intently. Although he does not understand the foul tongue, he may wish to learn it in the future if the Goblin threat is as severe as he dreads it might become.
Although I encountered their kind as a youngling, I did not learn their fowl verbiage. Pray tell, anyone understand this retched animal?
The ranger's eyes widen slightly in surprise at the familiarity between the mayor and the magus, but he says nothing, as he is still enjoying the relief from hisvwounds healing. As hebis about to thank Vestad, he hears the goblin's guttural voice, and his hand drops to his sword hilt. His long legs swiftly return him to the prisoner's side, and he swiftly checks to make sure the bonds are secure.
Viorela only can blush and politely accept Foxglove's kind words with a smile. She continues to watch as he strides off.
What a gentleman!
Turning to Kendra, she returns the hug as if she hadn't seen her aunt in years. She turns to look upward, and then as always realizes she has grown to the same height as her aunt and smiles and laughs it off.
"Yes, let me introduce them... This is Vors, Vestad, Andwell, Borhald and of course Tosh."
"Is... is, the town safe now?"
Viorela and the mayor? Most interesting.
"Mayor Deverin, I'm sure I speak for us all when I say that no thanks are needed, for our true reward is the safety of Sandpoint and its citizens. If there are no more of these little wretches about, I suggest your men take custody of this one for interrogation." Tosh leans in and whispers to the mayor loud enough for Viorela to hear. "Viorela was exceptional, you should be right proud of her."
"We will interrogate the goblin shortly," the mayor says in response to the goblin's outburst. "Everyone just stay back - ah...thank you for checking his binds, sir."
"The town is safe, dear," the mayor says quietly to Viorela. "There are reports that remaining goblins have been run off - some even throwing themselves from the cliffs to avoid capture - foolish beasts."
At Tosh's words she beams proudly. "Regardless, Sandpoint owes you a great deal. Now, I must speak with Father Zantus and determine how and when we will officially consecrate the temple - I don't believe we should press on today. Additionally, we must take care of the wounded and deceased. We don't yet know how many of either there are."
She steps onto the nearby stage and bellows in a loud voice, "Citizens, we have suffered a terrible, unprovoked attack today. But we have prevailed. Thanks in no small part to these six brave heroes. For now, we will cancel the remaining festival activities and ask that you all return to your homes or inns. While we standing here feel great joy for the victory we have achieved, we will mourn for those who lost their lives in this senseless violence and stand together with those left behind." She steps down and returns to Viorela and the group. "If you'll excuse me, I have some matters to attend to. Thank you all again." Then, turning to Viorela, she asks, "Viorela, are you staying with us tonight, or elsewhere?"
Tosh offers to help in whatever ways he might before eventually heading back to the Rusty Dragon where he will sit and write a song for this bittersweet day.
Viorela laughs faintly.
"Likely with you, the last of my mother's coin was used up in Magnimar, so I'm making every last one count."
She frowns, as if this is starting to weigh on her.
"Have you heard if anyone needs any extra help in town yet? Perhaps these attacks have someone wanting a trained guard at their store?"
Viorela smiles at the others, as if the possibility of her serving as a guard should be something of a surprise before this afternoon.
Viorela knows that Kendra is aware of her skills - or rather, lack of skills in most areas. She has already talked to her aunt on several occasions that she would best attend to either clerical (scribing) duties if she doesn't put her martial skills to use.
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I could use an ale. I'll see you all back at the Rusty Dragon, I hope."
Vors will escort Evelina back to the inn and get her a meal, then see if he can't locate Sheriff Hemlock to see if there's any aid he can provide. If not, he'll return to the inn for a drink and something to eat himself.
Borhald nods respectfully to the mayor, then vanishes into the thinning crowd. He means to cast for tracks outside the town to see if he can at least determine in which direction the bulk of the goblins fled. Once done with that task, he means to rejoin the others at the Dragon.
Survival
Vestad asks the father, "How may I best be of use? I have yet to expend the healing power I have been granted today but I fear simply wandering the streets looking for injured people will not be the best use of my powers."
At Viorela's request for work, the mayor smiles gently. "I'm sure we'll find something for you to do around here. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some matters to attend to. See you tonight - or, more likely, in the morning."
The sheriff and his crew have chased the goblins and he's returning to town. He is unavailable at this time.
A majority of the goblins fled north, flinging themselves into the ocean to avoid capture. Additionally, it's impossible, due to the amount of traffic and activity to discover where they originated from.
Father Zantus looks at Vestad gratefully. "I will try to have everyone who's injured gather in the square in front of the cathedral. I am sure that your act of healing the wounded will be the first act of healing our city. Please, join me there in a few minutes." Turning to the others in the crowd, he says, "Please, friends, go forth and find all of the wounded who are in need of healing. Bring them to the square, where their injuries can be mended by Vestad."
About an hour after the final attack, a large group gathers in the square, preparing to be healed by Vestad. Again, there are many there who don't appear to be wounded, but merely want to be near to the heroes of Sandpoint. Father Zantus welcomes the crowd, says a brief prayer for the dead and then nods to Vestad. "Would you care to say anything before you begin?" he asks?
Upon arriving at the inn, Tosh and Vors are greeted with loud cheers and offers of free booze and food - it is clear that they are already well-known among the locals of Sandpoint. Aldern is one of the first to leap from his chair. "Please! Join me over here, gents. Is...uh...Viorela joining us, perchance?"
Vors will happily accept a hot plate of food and a cold ale, joining Aldern at his table, exchanging words and smiles with the townsfolk.
"My thanks. I think Viorela was speaking with the mayor, last I saw her, Master...Foxglove, was it? I'm sure she'll be along."
Borhald joins the others at the Dragon, looking tired but having changed from his blood-splattered clothes into clean if patched garments. He nods to his friends, and their current host. Although he is still not quite hungry, he gladly accepts a flagon of cold ale.
"The little pests ran north, and jumped into the sea to escape. They must have been bold enough to use the main road for their approach, though. I know not where they came from."
Viorela watched Kendra head off to attend to more mayoral duties.
I wonder where she is off to now. I'm not sure, but being a town's mayor seems to often revolve around mundane activities.
Seeing all the others disperse, Vestad to tend to the wounded, and Vors, Borhald and Tosh to the inn, she sighed.
The town has changed so much since I was a girl, I used to always have something to do.
Viorela returned up to the house to change out of her torn dress. She just had a loose fitting tunic and a pair of short leather breeches to change into. She hesitated as she considered her actual armor.
Why not...
Fully outfitting herself in case additional trouble should happen to befall Sandpoint, she made back into the town proper, her scimitar strapped to her waist.
Best see what the folks at The Dragon are discussing...
"Thanks to you good people of Sandpoint! I will accept this food and ale not because I am a hero, but because I am very hungry!"
Tosh laughs with everyone before eating his meal.
Spotting Vors, Tosh and Borhald seated with the gentleman from earlier, Viorela smiles and makes her way to join them.
She didn't usually eat much during the day, and had gotten some fresh water back at the house when she changed.
In a teasing tone, she asked, "already reaping the benefits of your heroism, gentlemen?"
The ranger drinks deeply of his ale, then lifts the flagon when Viorela appears. "Welcome, lass! I do not believe stomping a few goblins makes a man a hero, but it is most impolite to turn down free food and drink."
Borhald stands to make room for the magus. "Come, sit!"
Tactfoot satisfies his Halfling curiosity by combing through the fallen Goblins looking for identity clues or valuables. Once assured he's been thorough, he swings by his modest dwellings to retrieve his sword affectionally named Shin Spliter. If nothing else attracts his ever searching senses, he jaunts to the Rusty Dragon to meet with his friends.
Well well, complimentary meals and libations! I say, it is past time for my pre dinner meal, Don't mind if I do, please and thank you.
About an hour after the final attack, a large group gathers in the square, preparing to be healed by Vestad. Again, there are many there who don't appear to be wounded, but merely want to be near to the heroes of Sandpoint. Father Zantus welcomes the crowd, says a brief prayer for the dead and then nods to Vestad. "Would you care to say anything before you begin?" he asks?
"The doctrines of my faith bid me heal first, as the suns rays warm the air before its radiance becomes visible over the horizon."
Vestad unleashes two waves of healing energy over the assembled crowd. Thin, cool flames pour off of him, writhing around the assembled masses. His eyes shift from dark brown to radiant gold.
I pray what little aid I can offer warms your hearts. My great-grandfather brought his faith across the desert, an upright man and brave. I am the lesser son of a lesser son, yet the Everlight shines even through me.
Vestad tells Sarenrae's creation myth. He lifts his left sleeve, a patch of black covers his lower arm. "In the beginning, all was darkness for Asmodeus ruled over the lands and the hearts of men." Across his upper arm is a small flame which illuminates a dark room. "But the Dawnflower brought light. She opened the heavens, binding shadows to dank corners and evil's hiding places." Vestad pulls up his right sleeve, "For the light brings truth and with it power. Kelesh script winds around his whole right arm.
"Today darkness crept into our fair town. Darkness took good men today. But today also we see light. We saw hope, like the first rays of the morning sun speaking of good things to come. And we saw courage, like the mid-day sun which burns away the chill of darkness."
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Ash walks up to Vestad, clapping one hand on his shoulder, but noticably holding his side.
Good prayers, my friend. Her touch is welcome, to be sure.
As just as soon, he limps over to the stairs of the cathedral, and plops down. It almost looks as if Ash was holding himself together by sheer will alone.
Sheriff Hemlock walks around the wounded, checking his men as well as the townsfolk. He and Ash begin talking, and eventually shake hands before the Sheriff heads off South.
Vestad looks the fighter over and intones another prayer. "The lady's blessings upon you. As his wounds mend and the cathedral clears, Vestad asks the figher, "Shall we return to the inn? A meal would be most welcome an the mayor said she wished to meet us there."
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Vestad looks the fighter over and intones another prayer. "The lady's blessings upon you. As his wounds mend and the cathedral clears, Vestad asks the figher, "Shall we return to the inn? A meal would be most welcome an the mayor said she wished to meet us there."
1d8+1
Thank you, brother, many blessings to the Dawnflower. A meal, and a drink sounds most welcoming at this point. he says with a smile, while twisting at his waist, testing his newly healed wound.
Lead the way, brother Vestad.
When Viorela approaches the table Foxglove stands, bows and kisses her hand. "My dear, you look as radiant as you do fearsome. Please, take a seat." He motions for someone to bring another meal and mug. "You do us honor with your arrival. We have just been filling our stomachs with food and ears with wild stories. I'm sure you have some you could add. Stories, that is, of course."
Scrounging through the dead and dying goblins, you manage to find a potion of cure light wounds, a whip, a masterwork horse chopper (short sword), two short bows, 38 arrows and 20gp.
There audible gasps in the crowd as Vestad speaks and depicts the story through his numerous, detailed tattoos. When the healing energy washes over the crowd, there are people - primarily those who weren't actually injured - who are unable to feel the weak wave, but everyone pretends that it is one of the most exciting moments of their lives. Cheering, whooping and clapping loudly. Those who actually were injured are genuinely grateful for the instantaneous healing they received.
As Vestad heals Ash, the result is completely different - he can't help but feel the healing power come over him, mending the wound and repairing the broken ribs he had suffered.
Overhearing the men discuss going to the Rusty Dragon, Sheriff Hemlock turns back around. "May I accompany you two there? I intend to speak with the other heroes," - he puts an interesting emphasis on the word "heroes" - "to discuss what happened and their plans for the coming days. It is…possible that we will require further assistance."
As Sheriff Hemlock, Ash and Vestad arrive in the Inn, there is already a raucous celebration in full swing. Hemlock spots the group and leads the two other men over to the table. Nodding, he grabs a chair and sits. Turning to Foxglove, he says "Pardon, but will you give us a moment?" Foxglove feigns looking wounded and then, with a wink at Viorela, heads to another part of the bar.
"It has come to my attention," Hemlock begins, "That the goblins' attack here today is more than a senseless act of violence - there was a purpose. A mission, if you will." Hemlock's ale arrives and he pauses until the barmaid is out of earshot. "Some of the goblins entered our cemetery and removed some remains," he continues, darkly. "We aren't yet sure whose were removed - Father Zantus is going to look into it and report back to me. We've interrogated some of the captured goblins, but all we've gleaned is that they were given orders to kill everyone in town and then burn Sandpoint to ashes. When we asked who ordered this, none can remember the name. But," he leans in closely and whisper quietly. "two of the goblins both confirmed that the leader was a human." He leans back and takes a big drink before continuing.
"Now, we don't know what this means yet. It is concerning, to say the least, that the goblins had a mission and that they're being directed by a human. I have been asked to see if you would remain in town for the foreseeable future to aid in the investigation of this attack." He pauses as if considering his next words. "You are simply citizens or visitors to Sandpoint. You are not required or compelled to serve us in any way. And beyond slaying several goblins, we have no reason to ask this of you." this last bit was said with some obvious frustration - a fact which Hemlock realizes and tries to temper. "But, you have given hope to the people. They admire and applaud your service. It would be good if you were able to help us." He finishes speaking, takes a long drink and awaits your reply.
Borhald nods pensively. "I've been fighting their kind since I was barely taller than they are. If you need help in preventing such a raid from happening again, my sword-arm is yours, Sheriff, for as long as it takes."
"Sheriff, everyone in Sandpoint respects you and the work you do for this great city. Since you ask it, I cannot and will not refuse to aid in any way I can."
"I serve only at the will of the Dawnstar, but for now, at least, I will serve here. I fear that I may be of little aid in an investigation.
"Sandpoint is the biggest settlement nearby. If it falls, nothing lies between the goblins and other settlements like Whistler's Grange, 'less Magnimar gets wind of it and sends soldiers. If you need my help, Belor, you'll have it. If Evie can stay with someone here 'til we return, or get an escort back home, I'd appreciate it."
Viorela thanks Foxglove for the offer of a seat with the others.
Before she can share any tale of her own choosing, Hemlock arrives. She smiles politely at Foxglove's wink.
I must remember to not lead him on. There was that time in Magnimar with the drunken nobleman's son whom I had...
Her thoughts are interrupted by the sheriff's tale.
How exciting, it's like we're a band of adventurers retained by Sandpoint to fend off goblins!
"A human leading them? I admit I studied a little about goblins a few years back."
I should have payed more attention, yet they seemed so uninteresting when I could read about a chimera or a wyvern instead.
"I will gladly assist however I can sheriff. I have a fond place in my heart for Sandpoint."
And as I discovered already, this is an opportunity to practice all that I studied.
"Perhaps we should visit the cemetary and see what they were up to? Perhaps the tracks are more easily followed there... and don't lead us to a sea cliff?"
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As I told you before, Sheriff, I'll lend my hand as needed. Not planning to go anywhere for a while. Though, with fine heroes as these good men... and woman, he nods to Viorela, I do not see me being needed much.
He laughs, but then gets a little more serious as he remembers the attack, I heard the goblin say Longshanks... did you get anything else?
My my, yes yes. I have seen the Goblins burn my own shire and scatter the survivors. It can happen even here. Yes yes, do not doubt.
Emotions are running high, yes. The militia is busy defending Sandpoint. But arraingements must be made. Details details. They lead to success.
Perhaps the Mayor and Sherriff could deputiz us. Official defenders of Sandpoint! Give us authority to act. Yes yes. Supplies, logging yes yes. A modist stipend for our services, of course. Yes yes.
Sandpoint is my home now. I will not loose another to the Goblins.
Besides, every adventure needs a bit of Halflings luck
Responding to Ash, Hemlock says, "That was about the extent of it. They know nothing. It is pitiful."
As the part finishes agreeing to help, Hemlock nods his head. "That is good. Thank you. I will be in touch shortly." He stands to leave. Looking mostly at Tactfoot, he says, "Try to stay out out trouble until then."
Seeing Hemlock leave, Foxglove returns. "So, was he here to thank you for your heroic bravery and service to Sandpoint? I'm sure he was glowing in his praise." He says sarcastically. He takes a seat and then says, "I am going to return to Magnimar in a few days, but before I go, I was hoping to take part in a spot of boar hunting in Tickwood. I would be honored if you would accompany me. To thank you for saving me from certain...um...goblining...I'll take care of the costs for your mounts and whatever other equipment is required. I do hope you'll agree."
"Is the forest nearby? We just pledged to stay in town and defend it."
Ohh. My 'o my. The ordained one does have a point
moving closer to Ash and Vors
Friends. I found some items that among the Gobbers that may be of interest. First I have this large (for a Halfling) bundle of arrows and short bows. I thought perhaps you could make use of them, or donate them to the local militia.
Of a more personal nature, I would like your expert opinions. Yes and please. Here I have, I do, me sword called shin splitter. It a nice weapon, but mostly for show. I, um, acquired it, shortly after arriving in Sandpoint 10 years ago. Never really used. No, not really.
Now this , my trained eye tells me is of masterwork quality. Would you say it would suit me better? Now that using one at close quarters is probable. Yes, probable it is.
Borhald nods politely to Foxglove. "I for one would enjoy a good hunt. But as Vestad said, we can only go if we make sure we are not needed here."
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Ohh. My 'o my. The ordained one does have a point
moving closer to Ash and Vors
Friends. I found some items that among the Gobbers that may be of interest. First I have this large (for a Halfling) bundle of arrows and short bows. I thought perhaps you could make use of them, or donate them to the local militia.
Of a more personal nature, I would like your expert opinions. Yes and please. Here I have, I do, me sword called shin splitter. It a nice weapon, but mostly for show. I, um, acquired it, shortly after arriving in Sandpoint 10 years ago. Never really used. No, not really.
Now this , my trained eye tells me is of masterwork quality. Would you say it would suit me better? Now that using one at close quarters is probable. Yes, probable it is.
Aye, little one. The sword is of fine make, as he looks closely at the sheen of the blade, Steel of this quality is rare. It will serve you well, my friend.
At Aldern's invitation he stands, handing the sword to Andwell, That would be my cue. I'll be leaving you to your new friend. I will see you all around town, my friends. I'll buy you all a round, well fought today!
Ash leaves with a bow and heads toward the bar. After talking with the halfling barkeep, he slides a small stack of coins to her and gestures toward the PC's table. He gives her a little kiss on the cheek and waves to his friends as he heads upstairs.
Tosh nods along with the conversation, but he is obviously more engrossed in his mandolin: plucking out notes, changing them, and humming to himself.
Viorela makes a face at the thought of hunting boar.
"By all means if you gentlemen wish to hunt, you can knock yourselves out."
Unfortunate that this noble thinks that thanking me is taking me hunting? He must not know women all too well.
"So, about seeing what the ruckus was at the cemetery, am I going alone?"
Viorela stands, as if she makes to investigate whatever happened there - not quite ready to spend the rest of her afternoon relaxing.
The adrenaline is still strong.
Vors examines the blades.
"I reckon Ashe has the right of it. That's a good blade."
"As for the hunt, I've never been. Taken small game with my bow before though. If it's not taking us too far out of town, I won't object. We carved up a fair swath of goblins when they came in. Human leader or not, they probably won't be too keen on comin' back any time soon."
When Viorela stands, Borhald also gets up, as if by reflex, one of the few simple manners inculcated into him by his strict Korvosan father.
"Let me know when we leave for the hunt, then. One moment, lass." He finishes his ale tankard, then adjusts his swordbelt slightly. "Now I'm ready. To the cemetery it is!"
Foxglove assures the group that the hunting excursion won't interfere with their responsibilities. The hunt will only take a few hours and the forest is a short, two-mile ride. He tells you that the trip will begin at dawn the day after tomorrow and to meet him at the stables.
Hearing that Viorela won't be joining them, he feigns looking wounded again. "Is there nothing I can say to convince you? Perhaps you could just accompany us on the short ride out to the woods and then sing with the birds, rabbits and deer, as princesses do in the stories?"