Ooh boy, another campaign! Both my Hell's Vengeance and Starfinder campaigns are still ongoing, but while they continue to struggle against the trappings of unreliable schedules, this game was spawned with the promise of being a bit more reliable in terms of scheduling.
This also has the privilege of being my wife's first Pathfinder game. She has a tiny bit of experience with 5e and has been an avid spectator of my other games, so this seemed the perfect opportunity to drag her into the player's space.
The entire campaign journal can be found with formatting here:
JOURNAL LINK
Though as with my other journals, I'll also post new chapters here.
The dramatis personae:
- GM (Abbie)
- Axelescu "Axe" Barumaru (Stephanie) - CN male human Bloodrager (Crossblooded, Primalist) of Cayden Cailean & Kurgess
- Jan Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk (Shades) - NN male half-elf(?) Wizard (Runesage) of Soralyon
- Minki Pynpon (Cody) - CN female ratfolk Rogue (Scout)
- Sturling Deverin (Justin, aka me) - LG male human Warpriest (First Vault Bulwark) of Abadar
(I was graciously permitted to use the Sixth Wing Bulwark archetype despite my choice of faith on the grounds that I am building what is essentially a human Shield Archon.)
Now without further ado, let's get this started!
25/06/14 - Session 0 - Justiciar Performance Evaluation: Sturling Deverin
Toilday, 1st of Rova, 4707 AR, Magnimar
Participants: Jyronn Imikar (Justin)
The following is a performance report of Justiciar candidate Master Sturling of House Deverin.
Background
Born in 4686 AR in the town of Sandpoint, Varisia, to Ser Aiver and Lady Vana Deverin (both in good standing). Shares parentage with 5 younger brothers, Amos (Junior), Barthus, Elmur, Merrun, Vadd (all in good standing). No issues found. Assessment of psychological profile suggests Sturling’s elder status among his siblings instilled a strong sense of responsibility and familial piety. Further reinforced by observation that Sturling routinely writes to his family and has done so unerringly since joining the program.
Extended relations include aunt Kendra Deverin, current mayor of Sandpoint (excellent standing), first cousin once removed Gaven Deverin, proprietor of Two Knights Brewery (excellent standing; distinction of service as Abadaran Paladin), great uncle Lord Hobart Deverin, patriarch of House Deverin in Magnimar (good standing), first cousin once removed Keleri Deverin, accomplished scholar (good standing). No issues found. Noble pedigree verified and attested by Abadaran Clergy in Magnimar.
During the entry interview, Sturling referenced Casp Avertin, former sheriff of Sandpoint, as influential figure in upbringing. Casp Avertin was a former watch officer in Magnimar (retired with distinction). Casp was killed in the line of duty in 4702 AR by serial killer Jervis Stoot (known colloquially as “The Chopper”). Interview and follow-up assessments confirm Casp’s influence to have instilled a sense of duty, order, and responsibility in Sturling. No issues found.
Point of caution: Possible trauma as a result of the events referred to as the “Late Unpleasantness”. Several tragedies and major criminal activities transpired in the town of Sandpoint in quick succession. Sturling’s recollection of events indicate that this event deeply affected him, including a deep sense of helplessness and survivor’s guilt in response to the events. Entry interviews suggest that these events were a major influence for joining the Justiciar program. Following multiple assessments, concerns regarding Sturling’s psychological fragility have been dismissed. Sturling has channelled his experiences into a strong motivation to protect people and to promote law and order. There remains a possible risk of overextension should Sturling find himself in a position where he is unable to protect someone, or must make the decision to allow someone to come to harm to accomplish a greater objective, but these are considered negligible. Sturling has proven that he can act decisively under pressure.
General Performance
All physical evaluations passed. No deficiencies or health concerns observed. Slightly above average grade in perceptiveness and social cognition.
Combat training certified. Preferred armaments are polearms and shields. Demonstrated exceptional proficiency in shield combat. Strong preference for defensive tactics, but is capable of offence if the situation calls for it.
Scholastic attestations completed. Sturling passed all required tutorships for the Justiciar program. Demonstrated strong aptitude for organisational and financial studies.
Religious education certified by Cathedral of Abadar in Magnimar. Sturling is fully educated in the teachings of the Master of the First Vault, and has a passing knowledge of most regional faiths and philosophies. Personal philosophies indicate a preference for altruism, noblesse oblige, and liberalism. Does not exhibit problematic attitudes towards philosophical opponents, and could maintain composed and healthy dialogues with such individuals. While Sturling has high compatibility with other faiths, his familial ties and personal devotion to Abadar strongly suggest that continued loyalty is secure.
Conclusions
Sturling demonstrates excellent traits and aptitudes that would be befitting of a Justiciar candidate. Sturling is attested and certified as a junior guardsman and representative of the Abadar within the domains designated under the jurisdiction of the city-state of Magnimar.
Given these assessments, this report hereby assigns limited Justiciar authority to Sturling of House Deverin. Full certification may be granted, pending trial and observation of the candidate’s performance 1 year henceforth from this, the 1st of Rova of the year of Absalom Reckoning 4707, unless otherwise attested by an appropriate representative of the Church of Abadar.
Furthermore, permission is granted for Sturling to travel freely within Magnimarian territories in the capacity of an Abadaran representative. Sturling’s submitted request for leave to visit Sandpoint is therefore granted in this capacity.
So It Is Judged,
Proctor Jyronn Imikar
Jyronn Imikar
Player's Notes: Ever since running War for the Crown, I've been interested in the idea of playing an Abadaran. The sometimes contradictory nature of their LN faith brings up interesting dichotomies to me. While Sturling is far from the first PC I've created for Rise of the Runelords, he's the first that I've made to very explicitly be tied to aspects of the campaign itself. I made Sandpoint his childhood home. I made him follow a deity with a decently heavy presence in the campaign. I tied him to a deity of wealth. I also gave him a very liberal view of his faith, which I'm sure isn't exactly fitting with the stereotype of the classic Abadaran. Oh, and I gave him a German accent, just because it fit his vibe.
As far as mechanics go, I'm building him to use a tower shield and polearm, with the intention of going into the Vanguard Style feat tree. It's by no means an optimal build, but I figured it would be fun to play the "city guard supreme". I can take care of everyone's AC, which means the rest of the team can go a bit more ham while I handle the defence.
If you happen to be curious about what that might look like, here's the breakdown I have so far.
Anyway, back to the actual journal.
25/07/26 - Session 1 - Swallowtail Preparations
Toilday, 22nd of Rova, 4707 AR, Sandpoint
Participants: Sturling Deverin (Justin)
Routine report to the Magnimarian Cathedral of Abadar
I am pleased to report that Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and I arrived in Sandpoint on schedule and without incident. He has secured lodgings at the Rusty Dragon Inn, which I can personally attest is under the reliable management of Lady Ameiko Kaijitsu. I have taken residence in the Deverin manor with my immediate family and my aunt, Mayor Kendra Deverin. I will be remaining with them for the duration of my stay. While Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk has relieved me of any duties for the time being, I have sworn to check in regularly, should he require any further services.
As we have arrived several days in advance of the Swallowtail Festival and the consecration of Sandpoint's new cathedral, I have taken the liberty of offering my services to facilitate the preparations. The organisation of the event was already well in hand, so my assistance was largely relegated to heavy lifting, safety oversight, and some occasional budgetary consultations. I have seen to it that remunerations for my services were forwarded to the Abadaran shrine within the Sandpoint Cathedral. You will find my expense report included with this letter.
During my time assisting Father Abstalar Zantus, the Desnan high priest of Sandpoint, I have had the opportunity to work with his most recent acolyte, Lorvus Vantikin. Acolyte Vantikin’s previous history is outlined in his criminal record. During my interactions with the man, I found him to have difficulty committing himself to his duties and to be prone to flights of fancy. For instance, while assigned the task of watching over a cage of swallowtail butterflies required for the festival’s opening ceremonies, he attempted to leave the task to me so that he could instead cavort with the festival attendees.
While I cannot condone Acolyte Vantikin’s actions, as I find them to be irresponsible and in conflict with the commands of his superior, none of the behaviours he exhibited met the criteria of criminality. Though he has difficulty abiding by the rules, I do not believe Acolyte Vantikin is at risk of recidivism at this time. Even if he were, it would seem that my presence has on multiple occasions acted as a deterrent for any unlawful impulses he might entertain. I will continue to keep an eye on Acolyte Vantikin, though I do believe his rehabilitation to be genuine.
Father Zanthus has expressed concern for the management of the festival. By my estimation, this can largely be attributed to nerves. This is a major milestone in light of the events of the Late Unpleasantness, which was responsible for both the destruction of the previous Sandpoint chapel and the death of his predecessor Father Ezakien Tobyn. A degree of nervousness is understandable, and I confess to a deep empathy for the sentiment. However, we have taken every precaution possible to ensure that the festival will go smoothly. I have personally volunteered what aid I can offer on the grounds that the event presents a considerable benefit to the public interest and ongoing trade within the town. I have prayed for Abadar to see the value of this communal activity and bless it with appropriate security and prosperity.
A minor note, Mister Cyrdak Drokkus, producer for the Sandpoint Theatre, expressed an interest in having me participate in some capacity with his next play. To what ends, I was unable to ascertain. I have not offered a firm response to this interest as of yet, though I do not believe I will be accepting any offer to take part. I lack any aptitudes that would be relevant for such an endeavour, and I do not believe that my contribution would serve any worthwhile benefit to the church nor to myself. I mention this so as to quell any potential rumours that may arise.
Justiciar Aspirant Sturling Deverin
Player's Notes: Our first session ended up being cut a bit short, so it actually ended up being only my intro. The rest of the party gets more coverage in session 2, and 3 is when the fight breaks out.
Having played the first chunk of Rise before, I don't recall Lorvus Vantikin being a character. Our GM for this one (Abbie) is known for going above and beyond with adding bonus stuff into her campaigns, so I imagine he's one such addition. He's apparently a former thief who was caught attempting to steal from the Two Knights brewery (which is of course owned by Sturling's extended family). Over the course of session 2, it became a running gag that I'd keep running into him doing slightly questionable things, which was all the funnier considering I wasn't even trying to chase him by that point. Sturling is just the inevitable reach of the law and conscience, a shadow he will never be able to flee from. My poor boy isn't trying to be a party pooper, and yet hahaha
25/08/02 - Session 2 - Swallowtail Festival
Toilday, 22nd of Rova, 4707 AR, Sandpoint
Participants: Sturling Deverin (Justin)
Routine report to the Magnimarian Cathedral of Abadar
In light of recent events, I have included in this report a summary of the background checks I have performed for two adventurers and recent arrivals to the town of Sandpoint: Mister Axelescu "Axe" Barumaru and Miss Minki Pynpon.
In terms of physical profile, Mister Barumaru is a large and very muscular Varisian male with long dark brown hair and a full beard. Notable features include extensive tattoos in classic Varisian style, and his large collection of axes of multiple sizes. Miss Pynpon is a small rat-like being with a white fur coat. She claims to be a member of the Ysoki species (colloquially referred to as Ratfolk). She is the first of her species that I have personally encountered, though I am told by reliable sources that they are common in her native land of Tian Xia.
Mister Barumaru and Miss Pynpon both arrived in Sandpoint earlier today by way of a Varisian caravan belonging to Mister Sandru Vhiski. By his own account, Mister Barumaru is a wandering adventurer and monster hunter (I have found no records of his achievements, though given what I have seen of his abilities, I do not have reason to doubt that there is at least some truth to his claims of heroism). Miss Pynpon meanwhile is a recent arrival, having washed ashore from a shipwreck of a vessel from Tian Xia (I do not presently have ready access to the Magnimarian sailing manifests to corroborate this). She was reportedly rescued and subsequently taken in by the caravan. At this time, I have found no evidence that would lead me to suspect that either of these individuals are in any way associated with the Sczarni or any other criminal organisation.
While the caravan continued on, Mister Barumaru and Miss Minki elected to remain in Sandpoint for the Swallowtail festival. Shortly after their arrival in town, Mister Barumaru was reported to have demonstrated noteworthy axe throwing skills. This was confirmed by Mister Daviren Hosk, proprietor of the Goblin Squash Stables and organiser of the activity. By his account, Mister Barumaru flubbed his second shot by not looking at the target, and incurred some light property damage (axe embedded in ceiling beam), but then recovered by performing an impressive trick shot with his third throw, for which he was awarded a silver axe trinket.
Miss Pynpon was first seen following Mister Vhiski into the Rusty Dragon, where she was greeted by Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and Lady Ameiko Kaijitsu (Mister Barumaru would join them a while later). Mister Vhiski reportedly persuaded Lady Kaijitsu to give both Mister Barumaru and Miss Pynpon free lodging at the Rusty Dragon, which Lady Kaijitsu granted on the grounds of the two telling her a suitably entertaining story. By Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk’s account, the pair were able to tell an appealing tale of their adventures, which he personally embellished with magical effects. There was a minor incident report of Mister Barumaru receiving splinters while consuming a brownie created by Lady Kaijitsu, though I attest that this is a common occurrence at the Rusty Dragon that is accounted for in their safety disclaimers.
It is at roughly this period that I first encountered the pair of adventurers. After finding Acolyte Vantikin and persuading him to return to his post, I was in the process of escorting him and directing foot traffic towards the Sandpoint Cathedral for the opening ceremonies when I briefly spotted Miss Pynpon among the crowd. At the time, I did not observe her to be performing any suspicious actions, therefore I did not investigate further.
Following the opening ceremonies (which proceeded without incident), I regrouped with Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk. He expressed concern for my wellbeing in light of my continued service despite being on leave. I affirmed that my activities were of a voluntary nature and very much within my limitations. I solemnly swear that I am by no means overworking myself, and am taking every necessary precaution to remain in good health, both physical and psychological.
Moments after this exchange, I introduced myself to Acolytes Walda Ambrush and Chelger Fespen, of the Sarenite and Desnan faiths respectively. It was while sampling a pie from Acolyte Ambrush’s stall that I had the opportunity to formally meet Mister Barumaru and Miss Pynpon. The exchange was brief, but allowed me to gather some of the background information I have already relayed in this missive. The festival continued and we parted ways, as I was at this point assigned to a dockside patrol.
I would again encounter Mister Barumaru at the Hagfish tavern. He had chosen to participate in the tavern’s signature challenge, where the challenger is expected to drink a tankard of hagfish tank water and keep it down for one full minute (the tavern’s safety waivers for this challenge are all in order). To Mister Barumaru’s credit, he was able to hold it down for nearly half of the allotted time, which is an impressive feat by most accounts. I entered the tavern as a precaution upon learning that the challenge was underway, and resumed my patrols after confirming that Mister Barumaru’s pride was the only victim, and that he was not in need of medical attention.
My next stop was at the mechanical dragon race, as I was asked to oversee the betting pool for the event. As a matter of coincidence, Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and Miss Pynpon had both volunteered to pilot two of the dragons, Sootclaw and Sparkbolt respectively, while the third dragon, Cinderbelle, was piloted by one of the resident gnome mechanics. I confess to having placed a bet of 1 gp on Sootclaw, as I had confidence in Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk’s arcane skills winning the day. My wager was well founded and I tripled my coin, one of which I gave to Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk for his contribution to my winnings (he also received a commemorative lighter for his victory). Miss Pynpon, despite coming in second, nevertheless displayed a high degree of skill piloting her dragon of choice. Had the race lasted mere seconds longer, I suspect she may have overtaken Sootclaw. I mention this as an attestation of her technical proficiency.
What followed the dragon races was the formal consecration ceremony at the Sandpoint Cathedral, for which I once again acted as traffic guide. However, the ceremony was interrupted by a goblin attack, the details of which I have included in my subsequent report.
Justiciar Aspirant Sturling Deverin
Player's Notes: Axe is my wife's character, and th basic premise is "Gaston from Beauty and the Beast, but less of a douche". Personally, I get Maui from Moana vibes from him. Either way, she plays him way nicer than his CN alignment suggests, but that's kinda how she rolls with roleplaying. Less planning ahead and more inventing the character as she goes along. The complete opposite of me in that sense. OOne thing I will say for sure is that she's got a knack for getting some peak rolls at just the right times. the three axe throw rolls she made were a nat 14, 2, and 20. On the second one before rolling she said Axe threw blind as a flex, which backfired hilariously, then he locked in for the third throw, and boy did he. The dice played into her hilariously, which I'm so glad for.
I've never played with Minki's player before, but I think he's made for an interesting character. Our GM was firm on playing up the fact that Minki, being a Ysoki, is by no means a common sight in Sandpoint, which has made for some good roleplay. Minki being Tian gave her an in with Ameiko right off the bat, which helped get the ball rolling. Also her being a tiny mouse girl paired up with Axe's hulking self makes for a great combo.
I'm not entirely sure what Jan's deal is. Apparently he looks like a half elf, but is short enough that he could also be taken for a halfling or even a gnome. I don't know if Shades is cooking something up with that, but I do know that he's got a personal quest that wasn't really covered here. He's supposed to find someone in Sandpoint, presumably to help him investigate something rune related. I think our GM has been cooking up some plans related to his Runesage archetype. Oh, and yes his last name is ridiculous. That was an intentional joke. He's got the most elven last name you could imagine and he hates it.
As for the activities, those were all added in by our GM based on vague suggestions in the book. She really ran with it to make some neat little scenes, I must say. The dragon races were quite fun to spectate!
25/08/16 - Session 3 - Goblin Incursion
Toilday, 22nd of Rova, 4707 AR, Sandpoint
Participants: Sturling Deverin (Justin)
Preliminary incident report to the Magnimarian Cathedral of Abadar
The attack began at roughly 19h00, with initial sightings occurring in the vicinity of the North Gate (though scattered reports indicate that infiltrations may have occurred elsewhere as well; exact details are still under investigation). An as of yet indeterminate amount of goblins managed to get through Sandpoint’s defences to infiltrate the town and wreak havoc.
My first personal encounter occurred in the Cathedral square, where the consecration ceremony was underway. Following the sounds of goblin war chanting, a canine was killed by a cart in the northern portion of the square. At the time, Miss Pynpon was in close proximity of this incident.
While other officials escorted crowds to safety within the Cathedral, Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and I took point to mount a defence, as we were both well positioned and prepared to act. Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk cast Enlarge Person on Mister Barumaru, anticipating that his strength would prove an asset. Meanwhile, I took the vanguard to block the goblins’ approach and provided cover to Miss Pynpon from their attacks.
It was at this time that I also made an open call for any able combatants to assent to temporary deputization in accordance with the Abadaran spellcasting emergency contingency protocols. Mister Jan Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk, Mister Axelescu Barumaru, and Miss Minki Pynpon swore themselves to the defence of Sandpoint, and therefore were deemed valid candidates for Abadar’s blessings. Henceforth, I supported them with my magic as the protocol dictates.
Following the initial shock, Mister Barumaru and Miss Pynpon entered combat as well. Mister Barumaru, in his enhanced state, dashed forward, knocking over the cart the goblins had been using for cover and delivering multiple lethal blows, while Miss Pynpon took advantage of her companion’s positioning to strike at the goblins from a flanking position. Their coordination served to eliminate the bulk of the first goblin force.
While some goblins attempted to engage in direct combat, there were others that instead directed their efforts towards property damage. Using bottles of alchemist’s fire and simple lit torches, the goblins set fire to two nearby buildings and one tent. In a swift response to this, Miss Pynpon approached the nearby well and swiftly optimised the drawing mechanism to increase our water output. This anticipatory move of public works improvement proved invaluable in later attempts to combat the arson attempts made by the goblin invaders.
Using both the well and some nearby watering troughs, Mister Barumaru, Miss Pynpon, and myself were able to put out the initial fires with only minimal damage to the roofing. The tent was regrettably too far gone to be saved, though Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk used his acid magic to collapse the structure and ensure that the flames did not spread any further.
While finishing our initial encounter, Miss Pynpon and I detected additional forces, both to the northeast and to the south. The southern group appeared to be the more immediate threat, so I directed Mister Barumaru to push ahead of us. The second group of goblins made their appearance in the south-east, near the cathedral, and included a warchanter. They immediately set fire to two more nearby structures, and attempted to torch the cathedral, though these latter attempts were unsuccessful. Mister Barumaru engaged the goblins first, preventing further damage, though in response, the would-be arsonists shifted their attention onto him.
Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and Miss Pynpon moved to join Mister Barumaru early in this second engagement, the former leaving me with a cast of Enlarge Person to facilitate the transport of supplies to address the fires on the southern buildings. I would take more time to load a cart with water and to temporarily remove my supplementary armour so as to improve my mobility. I only just made it to the southern end of the square when Mister Barumaru fell to the goblin’s strikes, though not before he did considerable work keeping the goblin forces at bay.
At this stage, a combination of Grease from Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and strategic positioning by Miss Pynpon allowed the pair to keep pressure on the remaining goblins. I pushed up and supplied some healing magic to Mister Barumaru, though it was insufficient to bring him back into the fight. I then made use of my enhanced size and polearm to provide more aggressive support, which allowed my allies to eliminate the warchanter. The remaining two goblins attempted to flee, though Miss Pynpon ensured that neither were able to escape. During that time, I was able to put out the remaining fires, once more before any significant structural damage could occur. Through our coordinated efforts, no civilians in the Cathedral were harmed, no goblins escaped the square, and the buildings (save one tent) suffered no lasting damage.
Mister Barumaru’s injuries were severe, but not life threatening. Regrettably, I had expended all of my healing magic and could not bring him back to consciousness. However, Miss Pynpon located a healing potion among the goblin warchanter’s belongings, and was able to use it to heal Mister Barumaru. With only minor wounds among us, we did not need to stop to rest, so once we confirmed the safety of the civilians in the church, we continued to the North Gate, where we had heard further sounds of distress.
Near the North Gate, we discovered Ser Aldern Foxglove being accosted by a group of goblins led by a commando riding a goblin dog. Ser Foxglove’s companion canine, by the appellation of “Prince”, was already slain by the aggressors when we arrived on the scene.
I immediately took point and interposed myself between Ser Foxglove and the goblins, at which point the commando directed his subordinates to focus their attentions on me. Before they could attempt to do so, Mister Barumaru, with the support of Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and Miss Pynpon, made short work of them, leaving only the commando alive.
At that moment I judged that no additional threats besides the commando were in the vicinity, so I pushed forward to confront the remaining threat. My intention was to intercept any attacks and establish a frontline in order to provide an opening for the rest of our party.
In my haste to confront the threat, I lacked prudence, and there were clear weaknesses in my defensive posture that the goblin commando and his mount successfully exploited. I am ashamed to say that their combined strikes were enough to render me unconscious for the remainder of the fight. I take full responsibility, as my failure was the result of impatience and overconfidence. I have every intention to reflect on this error and learn from it for the future.
Though it was a tactical blunder, my action did give Mister Barumaru and Miss Pynpon the opening needed to push forward. Their combined tactics were enough to force the commando to retreat from its disadvantageous position. The goblin dog was eliminated in the process of attempting to retreat. Moments later, Mister Barumaru was able to deliver a blow powerful enough to end the goblin commando, putting an end to our encounter.
I was resuscitated through the use of another potion, this time in the goblin commando’s possession. How these goblins were able to secure such powerful magical healing supplies I am uncertain, though given the commando’s skill level I would not think it impossible that they plundered them from unfortunate travellers or adventurers.
Following the demise of the goblin commando, our group escorted Ser Foxglove into town. While this report only includes incidents I was personally involved in, it is my understanding that further incidents occurred across Sandpoint simultaneously. However by the time we returned to the cathedral square, the goblin threat had been largely quelled throughout the town. Exact casualty and damage reports are still being calculated at the time of writing.
Upon our arrival in the square, several citizens noted our group’s contribution in combatting the incursion and arson attempts. As we had the public’s attention, I used it to caution them to remain vigilant and to direct them to relevant healing and support facilities as needed. Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk and Miss Pynpon continued escorting Ser Foxglove to the Rusty Dragon. Mister Barumaru saw to locating a proper resting place for Prince (Ser Foxglove’s canine companion) before joining them. I remained to continue directing the public.
Once the masses near the cathedral were dispersed, I spoke with Father Zantus and then visited the Sandpoint Garrison to submit my report to Sheriff Hemlock and await further instruction. I also attested to the significant contributions to public safety made by the individuals mentioned in this report: Mister Jan Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk, Mister Axelescu Barumaru, and Miss Pynpon.
At this time, I would also like to resubmit my commendation within this report.With the Master of the First Vault as my witness, I formally declare that the assistance of these previously listed associates was invaluable in the defence of Sandpoint. They directly secured the lives and property of numerous citizens from unlawful harm and directly aided in my activities as an emissary of the Abadaran clergy. It is thanks to them not only that I was able to write this account with minimal casualties, but also that I was able to write it at all. May Abadar’s faithful and the city of Magnimar recognise these three as allies of law, civilization, trade, and prosperity.
Regarding the incident as a whole, Sheriff Hemlock is already in the process of conducting a post-mortem review of the festival’s security. An inquiry is merited, as the sudden appearance of numerous goblin forces suggests a concerning amount of gaps, or possibly even sabotage.
The presence of a goblin commando was also raised as a point of concern by both Father Zantus and Sheriff Hemlock, and I am inclined to agree. Goblin commandos are a very rare sight this close to a human settlement, so its presence here suggests an abnormal mobilization. This, coupled with the precise timing and coordinated nature of the attack, seems to suggest that this was carefully planned, at least by goblin standards. While this is speculation, in my estimation there is a possibility that the goblins are being led by an unusually intelligent authority. If that is the case, it is a risk not only for Sandpoint, but for all territories under Magnimar’s protection.
For the time being, I have deferred to Sheriff Hemlock’s expertise on how to conduct the investigation, and I have availed myself fully to him for any further assistance as he sees fit. Presently, he has instructed me to get some rest, having noted my earlier injuries. In light of this instruction, I took my leave and rejoined Mister Iyyluv'ini'rtaelyyk, Miss Pynpon, Mister Barumaru, and Ser Aldern Foxglove at the Rusty Dragon, where I will tend to my wounds and hunger, and reflect on my suboptimal performance in today’s incident.
Justiciar Aspirant Sturling Deverin
Player's Notes: And there we go, combat! Fun fact, Sturling and Jan both hit nat 20s on their initiative, while Axe and Minki both rolled 6s. Funny how we kept the pairings even with our dice.
The first chunk of the fight went smoothly, but when the war chanter appeared, things got pretty rough. One goblin was unreasonably lucky with his attack rolls on Axe, which is why he got dropped (but thankfully no sudden Barbarian death syndrome). From the very first fight, forced me to play into my Overprotective Drawback. I kinda like that though, since it did force me to play into needing to help with the fight despite the fire still raging. It was a real test of Sturling's people over property philosophy.
Then the commando fight. True story, Sturling would have been fine had it not been for the commando and his mount both rolling nat 19s. The goblin dog's roll was literally 1 over what he needed to get a hit in, and without it Sturling, would have still been standing that round. In the end, it really was just bad luck, but I'd like to think Sturling isn't nearly as willing to forgive himself. He's the kind of person that also blames himself for what happened five years back, even if he was just kid at the time, so a failure like this is bound to push him into wanting the rest of the party to stick around as well, since they'll be able to help where he alone cannot.
And that's it for posts so far. Next one should happen in a couple weeks, since we won't be playing this upcoming long weekend. Cherrs!
Welp. Seems like a personal situation may have resulted in us losing our GM. Though I haven't fully given up hope just yet, chances are that this campaign has come to a premature end. A true shame, really...