As Sandpoint recovers from the attack and buries its dead, the citizens do their best to geton with their lives. The Cathedral is consecrated the next day during a much more subdued and indoor ceremony but by the end of the week, the goblin attack is remembered mostly with chuckles now that the terror of the raid is over. The citizens recount stories of goblins getting their heads stuck in spokes or tripping and stabbing themselves as a way to defuse the tension they had felt days before. In the Rusty Dragon the heroes hear citizens talking about goblins setting themselves on fire or getting stepped on by horses or drowning in half-full rain barrels.

That being said it is clear that the citizens remember just how many of them were saved by the heroes. Even as they try to cast the raid in a comical light, they treat the adventurers as true heroes of the town. Everywhere they go there is someone coming over to shake their hands and thank them for saving their cousin or sibling or child. Even a quick trip to the local market has the heroes coming back with their arms stuffed full of free loaves of bread or pockets full of fresh jerky. Not a bar in town accepts their coins and just by walking in typically triggers several rounds of free drinks and a couple toasts to boot.

Cyrdak tries to convince Arialis into auditioning for his new play: The Siege of Sandpoint, Tristen is offered a heavy discount at Savah's Armory in exchange for letting everyone know that is his favorite place for arms and armor. Father Zantus invites Razyll to lead a service while Vorvashali Voon offers Faeli a personal tour of his museum/antique shop collection. Talitha finds herself as the toast of the town guard who believe her personally responsible for saving the Sheriff's life while Kaddock is invited to go ranging with locals Shalelu and Jodar to make sure the goblins don't regroup for a second attack.

During this weeklong celebration eventually Sheriff Hemlock, now healed and recovered, comes by the Rusty Dragon to offer them a way to help out.

"First of all, thank you kindly for saving me. I must be getting old to let a few goblins get the best of me. Anyway Father Zantus came to me with a problem. It seems that the stone door to the burial vault has been opened and he is hearing some strange sounds from down there. I figure it's probably just some goblins hiding out down there but the guard is stretched thin at the moment and the Mayor mentioned you were willing to offer a helping hand. How about it? Care to go investigate the Boneyards for us?"

Faeli stepped forward while she finished chewing her spicy cake. Her eyes moved left and the right as she chewed chewed chewed 'cause it was rude to speak with your mouth full. After an awkward moment, she swallowed and then (maybe) started to choke, which prompted her to turn around in a rush to grab her milk to free the cake lodged in her throat.

Crisis averted Faeli smiled.

"Sorry 'but that Sherrif. We would love to help out. How could we not, we have been enjoying Sandpoint's hospitality almost all week!"

Talitha is drinking a pint of ale surrounded by the few guards not on duty. They are all having a good time.
They all cheer at the sheriff as he shows up in the tavern. The guards try to have him join the group, but he's there to formally request something as Sandpoint's sheriff, so he politely declines.
After exposing the request to the group of adventurers, the guards start to clap the back of Talitha and cheer her.
She stands up and with a big smile she finishes her pint.
"All right! all right! just let me finish my drink!" she tells the men around her. Then replies the sheriff.
"Of course we'll have a look at the Boneyard, it will be our pleasure. I would hate to disappoint the boys here."
As she accepts turns and laughs, the men cheer again and laugh and toast one last time.

OoC: can we consider we healed one HP per day during that week?

Kaddock enjoyed ranging with Shalelu and Jodar to root out any nearby goblin infestations.  He uses the time to learn a bit more about the surrounding territory and the people of the town.  Kaddock doesn't abuse the adulation of the townsfolk but rather takes the time to chat with each of the craftsmen or family members.  When the sheriff approaches Kaddock nods.  The time as heroes had been nice but it seemed the time had come to pay back some of that friendliness.  He listened carefully and then after Talitha stood up and agreed to the cheering of the guards he nodded and smiled.

"Certainly sheriff, we've all come to feel a bit protective of the town I think."

Razyll nodded in agreement with the others. He had been spending some time continuing the treatments of the other "Heroes of Sandpoint" and so as their presiding physician was confident that he could clear them for strenuous activity (or even battle).


Razyll didn't like the idea of venturing into crypts but, her disliked the idea of being blindsided again more.

"Sounds like Boneyards it is.

Sheriff Hemlock leads the group to the cathedral where Father Zantus is overseeing the cleanup efforts of his acolytes. Zantus comes right over when Hemlock waves to him.

"Ah, the heroes of Sandpoint. The Sheriff had mentioned he would be sending help but I didn't realize my concern would warrant your attention."

Next to him, Sheriff Hemlock just rolled his eyes and shrugged. It was clear from his attitude that Hemlock didn't think this was that major of a situation and tasking the heroes with it was more to keep Father Zantus appeased than because he thought the situation was that dangerous.

"After the attack I was overseeing the damage when I discovered that the door to Father Tobyn's burial vault had been cracked open. I don't know if you remember but Father Tobyn was the previous cleric in charge of the temple at Sandpoint until a fire consumed both him and the temple. This whole dedication ceremony was supposed to put that whole incident behind us..."

He kind of trailed off with a sorrowful look on his face. It was clear he had much higher hopes for the celebration than being disrupted by goblin raiders.

"Well, enough delays, I'll take you over there."

Father Zantus leads the group North to the gate that leads to the Boneyards, the cemetery behind the cathedral. Stone vaults owned by affluent members of the town stand near the cemetery’s edges or at its center, while dozens of humble plots, each marked with a simple gravestone, sit amid trees and shrubberies. The boneyard is well-maintained and it is easy enough to make their way to the vault of Father Tobyn. It is a simple sturcture, about 20' square that stands near the wall.

"It isn't just Father Tobyn in there, all of the previous caretakers, priests and acolytes who served are interred there. See, the door!"

He points where the door has indeed been cracked open slightly. It would be easy enough for a goblin (or similar sized individual) to slip in and out but it would represent a very tight fit for a larger person but not impossible to squeeze inside. Because it is only open a crack it is impossible to see anything inside.

Sheriff Hemlock takes Father Zantus' hand and leads him back to the cathedral.

"Come now, Father, leave the heroes to their work. I'm sure they'll come back soon enough with a tale of a couple of goblins taking refuge. Nothing sinister to worry about."

He leads the worried priest back towards the gate, looking over his shoulder and flashing a wink at the party.

Faeli waved as Father Zanthas and Sherrif Hemlock went back to the cathedral. She then turned and drew her dagger and crouched low into a stance she might have seen Arialis adopt during the previous goblin ambush.

Razyll looked at the cracked door and knew within seconds that there was no way that he would fit through. He looked over to Tristen. Razyll moved up to the door and look at it to discern its bulk.

Feeling brave he said "Wanna give me a hand with this?"

Talitha walks with her shield and sword ready full of confidence. She stops by the door, and with a silly smile days to Faeri.
"Can you cast any kind of light? It would be nice to see in there. Otherwise I will carry o torch, unless someone else that doesn't need both hands free volunteers..."
She winks at the wizard as she says those last words.

OoC: I can go first of everyone is ok with it, but I'd rather have my shield than a torch. :)

Kaddock grabbed a supply of torches as they were on their way to the graveyard.  He caught up to the others as the sheriff departed.  Shaking his head he stepped up next to Razyll and Talitha.  "Let's see if the three of us can get this open."

Razyll walked in front of Talitha. He blinked a few times and then looked down at his holy symbol of Sarenrae and then looked back up to Talitha.


"No, no-not a problem, I understand if the divine light of the Dawnflower isn't good enough for you."

"I can cast Light, we do not need the torches." Arialis said as she looked between them a moment. She picks up a small stone, then casts Light on it handing it to Kaddock. Then she points to Talitha's shield. "Or I can cast light on that instead."

"I can help with that." She said, motioning to the door.

Talitha sees everyone helping with the door, doubts for a second and helps them as well.
"I don't know what kind of goblins could open this door. it's heavy as hell."
Once the door is opened, the fighter will also answer to Arialis.
"Light on the shield would be great. If you could cast it in the front side we could illuminate the area without being blinded by it."
She proposes.

Faeli smiles at Razyll and moved over to his side.

"Here, you can cast your divine light on my dagger" the gnome said with a smile. She wasn't sure if the half-orc was joking or not (did half-orcs even have a sense of humor she thought) but this seemed important to him.

Arialis nods, and recasts the Light spell on the front of Talitha's shield. As this happens, the spell on the stone ends. "It only works on one item at a time." She said with a wink. "But on your shield might be best, which is why I offered."

n>Razyll smirked as he looked down at the gnome. He cupped her dagger between his hands as he prayed and called forth the light of Sarenrae.

"There ya go."

Kaddock looks at the others.  "One, two, three... heave!" he calls as they work to open the way downward.

Tristen offered his help with the heavy door. "Just a bit more, a bit more." He stood back when the word was done. "Arialis, I can take your light spell on my shield."

OOC: Sorry for my delay

Once the door is opened talitha steps in with her shield raised, lighting the area in front of her.
"Ok, let's move. Be careful with these little bastard; they will probably try to ambush us if they see us coming."

OoC: Should we specify the order in the group? I will take the front, but I'm not sure if anyone wants to go scouting ahead of us.

"The spell only works on one object at time Tristen, I apologize. However between my light spell on Talitha's shield, and Razyll'son Faeli's dagger we should have plenty of light." She said with an approving nod.

Then followed behind Talitha.

The party muscles the doors open to reveal the crypt is full of undead! Zombies and skeletons lurch forward having been released from their stony prison!

Round 1
The skeletons both begin firing arrows rapidly at the party, not bothering to aim at anyone specific.

Arialis and Kaddock both duck and dodge and avoid getting hit.
Talitha and Faeli aren't quite as lucky and both end up being clipped by arrows.
OOC: 4 damage each

The zombies lurch forward trying to hammer and grab the heroes in front of them. The zombies latch on, pulling the heroes closer to their
Zombie #1 - A1: Strike - Hit - 7 damage A2: Grab
Zombie #2 - A1: Strike - Hit - 9 damage A2: Grab


Combat Tracker

*Grabbed - Target is Immobilized and Flat-Footed. Targets can attempt an Escape Action (->) to make a DC 15 Unarmed Attack/Athletics/Acrobatics check to escape.

% - 75% | 75% - 60% | 60% - 45% | 45% - 30% | 30% - 15% | 15% - 0% | 0% > | Dead |
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:32, Mon 30 Nov 2020.

Seeing Talitha and Faeli take a few arrow shots Razyll grasped his holy symbol and channeled positive energy into a thirty foot emanation even as the zombies surged forward to grab Talitha and Arialis.


OOC: Razyll will do a three action heal to effect those down HPs and hopefully the Undead as well. Undead received a basic fortitude save.
A1,A2 and A3 Razyll rolled 4 using 1d8 ((4)).


This message was last edited by the player at 11:02, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

Talitha gets hit by the arrow and with no time to react a zombie grabs her arm. She tries to get rid of it with a quick pull. She frees herself from the zombie. She holds her sword with confidence (although probably Arialis can see the fear glittering in her eyes) and hits the creature in front of her with all she has.


A1: Free from grabbed condition.
11:05, Today: Talitha rolled 24 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 17.  Athletics check.

A2&3: Power attack to zombie #3 in F7
11:08, Today: Talitha rolled 26,18 using 1d20+9,2d8+4 with rolls of 17,6,8.  power attack & damage.
Critical success (26 vs 12) so Damagex2 = 36HP (Wow!)

This message was last edited by the player at 11:21, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

Faeli pointed at a stone at her feet and then gestured at one of the skeletons in the back of the crypt while she entoned the arcane works for Telekinetic Projectile.

---

OOC:
A1 and A2 Telekinetic Projectile Spell to attack skeleton at F4
Faeli rolled 18 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 11.  Telekinetic Projectile attack on skelie at F4.
Faeli rolled 7 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 3.  Damage from TK projectile cantrip.
A3 move to H7

[Language unknown: "Us ectse asone u Stioutted asei il et roin ti e!"] In a show of raw strength Arialis rears her head back and headbutts the zombie that grabbed her kicking it away, then draws her longsword and slashes it!

[OOC: Action 1: Attack. Break Free.
Action 2:  Interact. Draw Longsword.
Action 3: Attack. Longsword.

18:38, Today: Arialis Moonrider rolled 21,6 using 1d20+7,1d4+2 with rolls of 14,4.  Unarmed Attack to Escape.
Escape: 21
Damage?: 6 (Not sure if damage is done. lol)

18:42, Today: Arialis Moonrider rolled 4,10 using 1d20+2,1d8+2 with rolls of 2,8.  Longsword Attack.
Hit: 4
Damage: 10

Well, that sucked. Even if I didn't have a second attack penalty I'd have missed. Least I'm free!]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:45, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

Tristen was blocked from the undead creatures within the crypt. He had to do something to help those in the front. He moved behind Talitha while switching to his crossbow. He lined up a shot for when he had an opening.

---

A1: Move to F10
A2: Sheath Sword
A3: Ready XBow

How does this work?
I would like to designate Talitha as the Ally for this.

quote:

Champion Reaction: Retributive Strike
Trigger: Enemy damages ally and both are within 15 feet of you.
Effect: Ally gains resistance to all damage against the triggering damage equal to 2+level.
If the foe is within reach, make a melee Strike against it. (May take 5' Step. See Ranged Reprisal)

And if triggered, then I would be able to Strike the zombie with the following:

quote:

Ranged Reprisal as part of Retributive Strike. (Reaction)(1st)
May use a range weapon for Retributive Strike.
If using a melee weapon, may take a Step (5') as part of Retributive Strike.

Strike as a Reaction (does this use an Action, which I may have used all three already)
rolled 15,5 using 1d20+3,1d10 with rolls of 12,5.  ATK/DAM

Waiting for an opening Kaddock focused on one of the skeletons and fired.

OOC:
A1: Ready bow
A2: Focus prey on skeleton
A3: Fire

22:25, Today: Kaddock Ingir rolled 13 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 7.  Bow Shot.

I rolled two shots but I think I can only manage one.  All the shots probably missed anyway.

Round 1
Razyll lets loose a healing burst. One of the skeletons crumbles to dust, blasted away by positive energy while the other skeleton and zombies are definitely hurt by it but not nearly in as dramatic a fashion.

Talitha shoves off the zombie and then cuts the zombie in half. The zombie explodes in a shower of gore and viscera and liquid rot splashes out from it onto Tristen, Talitha, and Arialis showering them with vile smelling fluids. Tristen and Talitha find themselves overwhelmed with disgust and struggle not to vomit.

OOC: Freeing from the grabbed condition required a DC 15 check, which you did pass when I rolled.

Faeli sends a stone hurtling through and blasts apart the skull of the other skeleton.

Arialis pushes off the zombie and draws her sword but fails to land a solid strike against it.

Seeing the front entrance getting crowded Tristen switches to his shortbow.
OOC: The first round was a surprise round so no strike possible. I'll bring this over to the main thread for a proper discussion about reactions like shield block and strike etc.

With both skeletons down Kaddock switches targets to the remaining zombie, piercing it with an arrow. As the zombie moves to attack its shifting bulk sends noxious fluids squirting out of the hole and splashing Razyll with the foul liquid as well. The hardy half-orc powers through it.
OOC: Saving throw passed!

Round 2
The remaining zombie pounds away at Arialis but she easily deflects the strikes.

Combat Tracker

*Sickened 1: Take -1 to all your checks and DCs. Can spend 1 action retching to make another fortitude save to try and clear it vs. DC 13

% - 75% | 75% - 60% | 60% - 45% | 45% - 30% | 30% - 15% | 15% - 0% | 0% > | Dead |

Talitha struggles to see the other zombie as bits of rotten flesh ended up in her eyes and nostrils.
She breathes out with all she has to take the bits out of her nostrils and waves her sword twice to try to hit the other zombie, but with blood all over her sword the grip to her sword is not as strong as the previous attack.
Talitha suspects her colleagues will not be as thankful to her for killing the previous zombie as they should be.

A1 & A2: Power Attack to remaining zombie.
17:30, Today: Talitha rolled 23,15 using 1d20+9,2d8+4 with rolls of 14,8,3.  power attack & damage.

A3: Second attack to remaining zombie
17:31, Today: Talitha rolled 12,7 using 1d20+4,1d8+4 with rolls of 8,3.  Second attack & damage.

Faeli looked around at her feet again to find a rock. She pointed at the zombie and said the words of her telekinetic projectile spell once more and sent the rock toward the zombie which struggled to attack Arialis.


OOC:


A1 and A2 17:25, Today: Faeli Blackbriar rolled 20 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 13.  Telekinetic Projectile attack on last zombie.
17:26, Today: Faeli Blackbriar rolled 8 using 1d6+4 with rolls of 4.  Damage from TK projectile cantrip.

A3. Standing her guard. XD

OOC
I know that there's a lot of information. But Tristen moved to F10 because Faeli left that space. Would this mean that Tristen would not be Sickened?

Tristen shuffled his feet to back up to line up a shot with his crossbow. He waited until Arialis gave enough of an opening. He fired!

---

A1: Move to F10
A2: Fire Xbow at E7
rolled 12,6 using 1d20+3,1d10 with rolls of 9,6.  ATK/DAM
A3: Fire Xbow again at E7
rolled 16,4 using 1d20-2,1d10 with rolls of 18,4.  ATK/DAM

REACTION

quote:

Champion Reaction: Retributive Strike
Trigger: Enemy damages ally and both are within 15 feet of you.
Effect: Ally gains resistance to all damage against the triggering damage equal to 2+level.
If the foe is within reach, make a melee Strike against it. (May take 5' Step. See Ranged Reprisal)

quote:

Ranged Reprisal as part of Retributive Strike. (Reaction)(1st)
May use a range weapon for Retributive Strike.
If using a melee weapon, may take a Step (5') as part of Retributive Strike.

Looks like I would still be in range at E7. But it made me count TWICE :)
rolled 14,10 using 1d20+3,1d10 with rolls of 11,10.  ATK/DAM

Arialis pulls out her shortsword. "Now, you truly die." Then with both blades slashes at the undead beast!

[OOC: Action 1: Draw Shortsword.
Actions 2 and 3: Double Slice.

22:07, Today: Arialis Moonrider rolled 13,6 using 1d20+7,1d6+2 with rolls of 6,4.  Shortsword Attack.
Hit AC: 13
Damage: 6

22:06, Today: Arialis Moonrider rolled 21,4 using 1d20+7,1d8+2 with rolls of 14,2.  Longsword Attack.
Hit AC: 21
Damage: 4

If Both attacks hit all damage is combined for purposes of resistances and weakenances. So 10 Damage.]

Seeing the others pile into the remaining zombie Kaddock steps back and remains ready to fire at any unseen foes.

OOC: Cover fire if needed.

Razyll dropped his scimitar and pulled free his healing kit. He reached out to tend to Arialis's wounds even as she fought against the Zombie.


OOC:
A1. Drop sword
A2. Pull healing kit
A3. Treat Wounds 2d8 healing for Arialis
Razyll rolled 23 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 15.  Treat Wounds (Arialis)

This message was last edited by the player at 17:05, Tue 01 Dec 2020.

The last remaining zombie is cut down in a spray of black bile and rotten flesh. The undead are practically just rot filled sacks given how they explode when cut.

As each of the undead crumble, however, they don't just collapse into piles of bone and rotten flesh but instead start to dissolve magically.



Looking around the interior of the tomb they find that one of the sarcophagii has been broken open and the body instead stolen away. It takes a few moments to piece together the broken lid but it becomes clear that the missing body belonged to Father Ezaklen, the previous priest who died in the church fire.

In addition there is the remains of a black robe tossed carelessly into a corner. It still detects faintly of magical necromancy but its energy is slowly fading. Whatever power it might have once had seems to have been expended.

Talitha still covered in gore looks at the crypt and asks the rest of the party members.
"What the hell happened here?"

She looks at her wounds while the rest checks the rest of the room. She'll seek help from Razyll for the wounds, and after that will follow the rest to report what happened to Father Zantus and Sheriff Hemlock.

After that she'll head back to the tavern to take a bath, making sure the people in the tavern she her covered in blood, so she can brag about it later.

upadate healing Razyll
18:52, Today: Talitha rolled 10 using 2d8 ((7,3)).
This message was last edited by the player at 18:54, Wed 02 Dec 2020.

Razyll retrived his scimitar and brushed free the dirt from the blade before he sheathed the weapon using the scabbard at his side. Looking around the crypt the half-orc uses his Detect Magic cantrip to ensure that the lingering presence of Necromancy was the only magical effect which was present in the crypt while he gathered the black robes of who they presumed to be Father Ezaklen.

He picked over the bones of the skeletons and set there weapons aside, perhaps the guard could use this items in their armory.

His "investigation" completed Razyll gestured for Talitha to follow him outside of the crypt and away from the "foul magic" of necromancy.


OOC:
Razyll rolled 21 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 13.  Treat Wounds (Talitha)
+2d8 Healing via Treat Wounds

"It looks like these creatures were summoned magically. Faeli said as the creatures began to disintegrate.

"Look at how they are dissolving." the gnome pointed out she looked over to Tristen "I don't think this type of magic can be that old."


OOC: Hello there! Could Faeli do a Knowledge: Arcana roll to get a rough idea of how long summoning magic typically lasts? Just trying to get an idea if we are hot on the perpetrator's tail or something.

This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Wed 02 Dec 2020.

Kaddock looks about inside.  "Could the black robe be a link to whoever or whatever did this?  The body as well as been stolen or worse... that does not bode well."

"I agree Faeli." Arialis sheaths her blades, then moves over to the black robe and begins to examine it more closely. She then casts a spell on it.

[OOC: Casting Read Aura on the black robe before the magic fades on it fully to see what magic was indeed on it.]

Whatever magic enchanted the robes is too far decayed to get a reading from. Whatever it was, it isn't that anymore. Like a wand that has used its last charge it is slowly becoming mundane. At best guess it was a fairly powerful enchantment that began decaying around the same time as the goblin raid.

There isn't any equipment to recover from the undead as everything magically dissolves, not just the bones but their swords and bows and even the foul bile that had splashed over most of the party magically dissolves.

Besidse the faint traces coming from the robe there are no other sources of magic in the crypt.

Neither Sheriff Hemlock nor Father Zantus recognize the black robe. It was not something that was buried with Ezkalen so it was likely used and discarded by whoever broke into the crypt.

The Sheriff rubs his chin as he surveys the scene.

"This doesn't feel like the work of goblins on a raid. Why would goblins break into this crypt? Why would they smash this sarcophagus? This feels too direct and targeted to be just part of the random chaos and why would they leave undead ambushers behind like some kind of trap?

Maybe the raid wasn't just some random act of violence. What if the goblins were put up to it by someone. Someone who wanted to get into this tomb for some reason? Or what if someone knew the attack was going to come and snuck in..."

The Sheriff and the group look around for clues and they find several goblin tracks in and around the crypt but also a larger set of human-sized tracks that don't match the boots of anyone present.

"I'd say there was more to that raid then appears at first glance but what, I cannot say. I guess we'll just have to keep our eyes open and see if anything else turns up."

Faeli used her prestidigitation cantrip to summon a crudely shaped wooden pipe. "Thank you very much Sheriff, would it be inappropriate to ask that we be kept abreast of your investigations?"


Faeli groaned as the brittle construct crumbled when she removed it from her mouth.

"Oh man..."

Talitha wonders "Why in hell would anyone try to steal a corpse from a tomb?I think there is something more with father Ezaklen that just being a piuos man."
She tries to look like the smartest person in the room, with her hand in her chin and roaming around slowly.
"Any more details about the father's death that looked unusual? What about his family? Did you know him well? Was him from Sandpoint or from another city?"
The fighter doesn't have a clue of what's going on, but wants to pretend she has everything under control.

As the others speak Kaddock will look more closely at the tracks around the crypt. "Let me see if I can make any sense of the larger tracks at least.  And I would agree that the chances of this goblin attack being other than a distraction are about zero.  Is any power around here know to be in league with the goblins?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:44, Fri 04 Dec 2020.

The Sheriff tugs at the stubble on his chin as he thinks back.

"Let's see. Father Ezakien died about five years ago but before that he had been the main priest for the town for a long time. He wasn't from here originally but I don't know when he arrived or from where. All of that was before my time.

Five years ago...yeah. You see there were a series of disasters that hit the town right in a row and collectively the folks refer to it as the "Late Unpleasantness". First there was a serial killer, the Chopper. He killed 25 people in about a month, including the last Sheriff. The rest of the guards tracked the killer down, burned his body and buried the killer's hideout.

Then a couple months later a fire broke out on the north side of Sandpoint. A lot of buildings were burned and a lot of people lost their lives including Ezakien and his family. As far as anyone could tell the two things were unrelated. We think the fire was just an accident but so much burned down we never really found out for sure.

I don't know why anyone would want his bones but it probably wasn't for anything good. The guard will conduct a full investigation and if we find anything out we'll let you know.

As for the goblins I'm not exactly an expert on the local tribes. Shalelu ranges the forests most of the time so she would be a good person to talk to but she is hard to get hold of as she doesn't live in town. Keep an eye out for her at the local markets trading pelts or at the Rusty Dragon. Otherwise Daverin Hosk is the local goblin expert. He runs the stables and also acts as a guide around the local wilderness. He hates goblins with a passion so if anyone knows the layout of local tribes it is probably him. Just keep in mind that he really hates goblins and...well...you'll see."

Twenty-five people in a month, how horrible." Faeli said and then was silent as she listened to the rest of the information which was presented by the sheriff.

What a weird little town Faelie thought to herself.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:20, Sat 05 Dec 2020.

Talitha scratches her head. "Too many clues to follow."
She looks at the rest of the gang. "Any proposal? I say we start collecting some info about the serial killer and have a look at the remaining of her hideout, if there is any. Who that person was, what was she doing in Sandpoint and who were her victims. If they had any link in common. Also visiting the area of the fire and knowing who died there might be helpful to."
She thinks it's a place as good an anywhere else to start, by maybe the others think otherwise.
"So... what do you propose we do instead?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:35, Sun 06 Dec 2020.

Kaddock nodded at Talitha's suggestions.  "I think we should investigate the goblin tribes as well.  They are linked to this latest attack at the very least."

In reply to Kaddock Ingir (msg # 51):

Faeli nodded grimly. "I can speak goblin if we can convince one to speak with us..." Faeli said as the color drained from her face.

Her eyebrows furrowed and her eyes darkened as she thought of the prospect of actually speaking with one of those terrifying creatures. Her faith had named goblins to be monsters, spawn of the Mother of Monsters Lamushtu who was primary of Desna's few true enemies.

"...I guess that would be right. Right? Trying to understand them so we could help people?"

She looked back to Kaddock her eyes seeking some indication of what was "proper", "moral" or "ethical" in this case.

"I can help you with that as well Faeli as I can also speak Goblin." She said as she listened to the other's speak. "We need to look into the Father as well. See if there is anything about him that would make someone want his bones. His birth, his bloodline, anything..."

In reply to Arialis Moonrider (msg # 53):

"Yeah-that is smart." Faeli said as she looked over to Aralis. The gnome nodded her head slowly.

"We have a lot of questions, we should break off into smaller groups based on who has the best skills to address the situation?"

"Investigating the goblins sounds dangerous, but if we can find Shalelu should definitely help. I believe the people will remember the Father but we do not want to stir up too much panic, these people are trying to heal from the ambush"

Faeli thought for a moment "But...it seems like this place as faced a lot of tragedy, the townsfolk might be more resilient than I suspect."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:24, Sat 05 Dec 2020.

Tristen stood back. He took mental notes of each person as they spoke up. Many to voice ideas of how they could help learn more about various things. A smile came to his face. It was obvious to him. These folks wanted to help the town. He thanked Abadar for his intervention as Sandpoint stood at the crossroads.

"My comrades." Tristen began with a smile. "My companions, friends. We've only meet a week ago but by Abadar's providence. It seems that we're willing to help the good sheriff and the town of Sandpoint. Sheriff Hemlock, I hope you won't mind if we check a few things out on our own."

"The late Father Ezakien had family. His family also died in the fire. Wife and children, were they buried here as well?"

Sheriff Hemlock nods and leads the party out of the tomb and down to a small modest gravestone.

"If I recall correctly he wasn't married or his wife died longer before but his daughter died in the fire."

He points at the gravestone that just says Nualia Tobyn on it with her birth and death date on it. Her death date is the same as that on Father Ezekian's and based on the birthdate would put her at about 19 or 20 when she died.

"I would suggest sticking around town until you can find a guide. The Tickwood isn't a friendly place to go wandering off. We don't even know which goblin tribe raided us and there are several to pick from in the area. I'll keep an eye out fo Shalelu as well and point her in your direction if I see her. Until then rest up and get prepared for an excursion into the wilderness if you really want to see this finished. The Tickwood is only a couple miles away but its a dense tangle of undergrowth and slow going inside."

Kaddock met Faeli's eyes.  "We are going to have to seize information from the goblins I fear Faeli.  They are foes and implacable ones for the most part so our interrogation may be harsh.  But they will only attack again if not stopped."

He nodded to the sheriff.  "We'll talk to Shalelu if you can help us with that Sheriff.  We'll also talk to Daverin Hosk.  Is he a reputable guide?  You mentioned he knows the tribes and the lands outside the town."

The Sheriff gives a shrug.

"He isn't as good as Shalelu but then few are. Are you still staying at the Rusty Dragon? I'll keep that in mind if anything else comes up. Also I'd appreciate it if you swing by and let me know if you're planning on leaving town. We really appreciate you sticking around and understand if you've got business elsewhere but if you help us finish this and drive out the goblin tribe that attacked us I'm sure the Mayor and the rest of town would greatly appreciate it."

Faeli gave the sheriff a salute, "Aye-aye, sir!"

Talitha smiles widely as the sheriff speaks."We'll stay around I think. We've been together in this for a long time, so I think we'll like to see how it continues. Let us know when you need us."

"We will be staying for the long haul. This needs to be resolved." Arialis said with a nod. "Let us go talk to the guide we do know where is, and if the Sheriff can find the other, talk to that one at that point." She then smiled to her companions. "We ready?"

"We'll be ready to protect the town again if needed sheriff.  We should take the offensive when we can though.  There is some plot of deeper evil here."

"So I guess we're going to find Daverin Hosk first. After that I'm thinking of going to speak to the Father Zantus at the Cathedral. Need to ask why someone would be stealing the body." Tristen gave the Sheriff a short bow before heading through the streets of Sandpoint. Daverin, he recalled ran a booth tossing goblin heads...

Kaddock nodded to Tristen his comrade from the caravan.  "Let's go see if Daverin has something useful to say.  At least we can get his take on things." He headed off with Tristen to find Daverin.

"If we are only going to be talking, we could split into two groups. One go talk to Daverin Kosk, the other to Father Zantus." She said with a nod.

Kaddock looked over at Arialis and nodded in agreement.  "Tristen and I plus whoever wants to come will talk to Daverin.  That keeps us at least in pairs for safety."

"I was sent here by Kyonin as our representative to watch over the new cathedral to Desna, so I will go there. Would you like to join me Faeli?" She asked with a smile. "Who else?"

Talitha raises her hand as Arialis speaks."Count me in. let's go to the cathedral and talk to the Father."

Faeli nodded and smiled and followed behind Arialis and Talitha while linking arms with Razyll to "drag" the half-orc along as well.

Kaddock chuckled at Faeli's antics and then headed over to find Daverin.

As luck would have it the next day Sheriff Hemlock swings by the tavern to inform the heroes that Shalelu had just swung in and they would be having a meeting at the town hall to go over her intelligence and decide on a course of action for Sandpoint and its defenses.

The meeting itself takes place in a comfortable office on the second floor of the town hall and Sheriff Hemlock formally introduces the heroes to Mayor Deverin.

Shalelu is a slim and elegant looking elven ranger but she appears completely haggard and worn. Run ragged, her appearance was such that the townsfolk that saw her pass through town immediately began to whisper about the dangers in the surrounding forest. She grimaces when Hemlock introduces her as an 'unofficial member of Sandpoint's town guard.'

When he introduces the heroes as "Sandpoints newest crop of goblinslayers" however that grimace turns into a smirk. Despite her worn appearance and aloof manner it seems she does hold a soft spot for some and the Sheriff knew just what to say to help break the tension.

"I was too far away when I heard about the raid. I was south of the Mossword. Just the day before one of the farms there had been raised to the ground by a group of goblins. This was not an isolated attack and it is only getting worse.

I've heard about your work in defending the city, well done. It seems to be a never ending task lately and that is speaking as someone who has dedicated several years to keeping them from causing too much trouble around these parts. They are easy to kill or drive away but they are tenacious as any weed. Kill one and there seems to be two more that sprout up.

There are five major goblin tribes in the region, and, traditionally, they are 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. A fair number of the Mosswind goblins I dealt with had shown signs of battle and had made mention of 'longshanks' who had killed many of them. Now that I have met you their descriptions of these terrors makes more sense.

In any event the fact that the five tribes are working together disturbes me. Goblin tribes do not get along naturally unless they have some grand plan, real or delusional, that they can sell to one another for temporary truces and alliances and even still you need a powerful force to unify them. To put it in their parlance, big plans require big bosses. I am afraid that someone has moved in on the goblins and organized them. Judging by these recent raids, what they are organizing seems like bad news for us all."

Hemlock nods and scratches at the stubble growing on his chin.

"That's my thought as well. Too many goblins, too focused of an attack. I think this is just the prelude for something else.  After the beating we gave them it should take them a little while to regroup and I'd like to use that time as effectively as possible. After talking with the Mayor I've decided to ride to Magnimar and request additional troops for defense. It is in their best interest that we don't fall to some kind of unified goblin attack so I hope they see the value in sending some reinforcements our way until we can get to the bottom of all of this.

Shalelu, I want you to keep ranging. Sniff around Skank's Wood, Brinestump, Mossword, Devil's Platter...anywhere these goblins are nesting. See if we can't find where they are organizing from and who is keeping them pointed at Sandpoint.

Heroes, with me out of town the locals are going to need a bit of a morale boost. I know it is asking a lot but can you stay for just another couple of days, just until I get back with reinforcements? March around town and really let the folks know you're here to protect them so nobody gets panicky while I'm away. Is that too much to ask?"

Shalelu nods at Hemlock.

"I will stay in town for the night and resupply and head out in the morning."

The two shake hands and then she turns and nods towards the heroes.

"I will be taking my meal at the Rusty Dragon. If you would like you may join me and ask for information about the goblins or the surrounding areas."

Talitha nods at Shalelu's comment.
"I'll be in the Rusty Dragon as well. We can meet early and have a drink before dinner if you want, so we can understand if the tribes here have any specific behaviour when attacking or so... although I am not sure if the patters will matter now that they seem to be working together."
Then also responds to the Sheriff. "I don't mind at all staying around for a few more days. People in Sandpoint has been really welcoming so it will be a pleasure to stay for a couple of extra days."

Kaddock listened intently to the ranger's words.  He frowned at her guesses as to what was happening but said little as it fit his own ideas.  When the sheriff spoke Kaddock nodded and grinned.  "Free food and board?  I'll gladly stay."  He did sober up and nod toward Shalelu.  "No, I think we have some loyalty to this town and blood invested in the good folk. I'd not see any more death and I'm sure my friends feel the same."

He nodded in agreement with Talitha.  "I'd like to hear more Shalelu.  Perhaps we can aid you on your patrols?"

Faeli clapped her hands together at the offer to join Shalelu for dinner at the 'Dragon. "Yay, how fun!"

Razyll finished packing away the materials included in his healing kit and then next to Faeli. "I could eat." Razyll said as he realized that he was hungrier than he had expected.

The group meets up with Shalelu over midday meal at the Rusty Tavern. She is well known around town but seems naturally quiet, even aloof depending on how one glances at it. She and the tavern owner Ameiko exchange news with one another but otherwise Shalelu eats comfortably in silence.

Faeli had a number of questions to ask the elf and when she invited her to lunch now was finally the time. Faeli used a bit of her discipline, and only peppered Shaleau with a few questions at a time, but it seemed obvious that a great reservoir of questions had built up within the young gnome.

"Where were you born? Do you know any magic? How many languages do you speak? Are you married? How long have you been practicing with your bow? Do you want to get married some day? Are you good at any other weapon? How far does your bow shoot?

Arialis laughed at Faeli as she started firing off the barrage of questions at Shalelu. "Man Faeli, you did not even ask me that many questions when you first met me." Then she laughed again. "And why so much about her bow, and her being married?"

Talitha orders a mug of ale and some food and eats with Shapely. She sees how the rest of the team overwhelm her with questions so she decides to stay quiet for the time being.
Talitha is not as interests in her personal information she as the help she can provide to capture some of those goblins alive to interrogate them.
"Food here is good." she says with her mouth full.

In reply to Arialis Moonrider (msg # 81):

Faeli looked down at her plate and blushed before she stuffed a spicy cake into her face to "distract the casual onlooker to her awkwardness." As if a gnome with a face full of spicy cake wasn't as equally awkward.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:08, Sat 19 Dec 2020.

Shalelu lets out a long sigh, apparently instantly regretting offering up her time to answer questions. She pauses to sip a glass of water before responding.

"I was born in a small village in the Mierani Forest, south of here. I know some minor magics as most elves do but I wouldn't consider myself particularly proficient in the arcane. No I am not married nor do I have any particular desire to settle down anytime soon. I have practiced with my bow since I was a child so about fifty years or so. Yes I am skilled in a variety of weapons and my bow can shoot far farther than is practical.

Now do you have any relevant questions to the matters at hand? I am here to talk about the goblin threat, not outline my personal history."

Her eyes narrow a little bit in a wince, perhaps that last comment came out a little harsher than she had expected but she didn't bother to caveat or correct it.

She placed a hand on Faeli's shoulder and smiled gently to her gnome companion.

"Do not take offence at young Faeli, Lady Shalelu. She reacted much the same way, but with much different questions when she found out who I was." Arialis said softly. "Mierani Forest? That is one of our ancestral homes. I am Arialis Moonrider-Dragonfeather, from Kyonin myself." One of the guardians of the Aiudara was here, and the daughter of the heads of the house no less.

"Besides the Goblins, have you noticed any other threats or creatures rallying with them?" She asked, considering. "Any, leadership?"

Razyll smirked that Faeli as he ate his meal, which was a grilled portion of fish with some vegetables. The half-orc looked on with some interest at the questions Arialis asked before turned to regard Shalelu for her response.

Tristen joined everyone after his stroll around the town. The people seemed great. He had several people shake his hand as he visited several different shops. He made a point to visit Savah's Armory again. He found a few pieces of armor that appealed to him. He left with a promise of spreading the word of Savah and her goods.

Tristen entered the Rusty Dragon and found his friends and an elven woman. "Sorry, I'm late. I've been checking the wares at Savah's Armory. You should check it out." He took a seat. "So we're going to go after goblins? Where should we started?"

Talitha keeps eating, listening to Shalelu and to everyone else asking her questions. She decides to make one of her own.
"Where could we ambush stone of those goblins? I'd like to capture a couple of them alive and interrogate them. Maybe they can talk about what happened here and who organised it."
She speaks while chewing a piece of meat.

Kaddock shook his head and smiled slightly at Faeli's enthusiasm. "I am Kaddock Ingir."  He didn't give any more background as his scars and appearance would tell a seasoned observer of his tribe and people. "We seek to put and end to the goblin threat or reduce it.  It seems that some force or leader is focusing their attentions.  We hope to learn from you what might be done and what might be happening."

Shalelu takes another small sip of ale as she gathers her thoughts. It is clear she has a lot to say and is trying to organize things in a way that the newcomers to the area could follow.

"There are five major goblin tribes in this part of Varisia. Closest is the Birdcrunchers. They live in the caves along the western edge of the Devil's Platter although typically they are the least aggressive of the five. They typically are found shifting through trash piles, not raiding farms and towns. To the south are the Licktoads that inhabit the Brinestump Marsh. East are the Seven Tooth goblins. They have a lair somewhere in Shank's Woods. Farther east are the Mosswood goblins. The Mosswoods are probably the largest tribe but are also the most fractured as infighting has kept them from being too much of a threat except to themselves. And finally, there are the Thistletop goblins, who live on the Nettlewood coast atop a small island

I have not seen anything close to proper leadership in goblins. They live short, violent lives so it is rare for a goblin to even make a name for itself outside of the tribe but there are six notable goblins in the area. If someone is rallying the goblins together they will have to have at least one of these so called goblin "heroes" aligned with them to keep the tribes in line.

Big Gugmut is an unusually muscular and tall goblin from Mosswood who, it is said, had a hobgoblin for a mother and a wild boar for a father.

Koruvus was a champion of the Seven Tooth tribe, as well known for his short temper as he was for his prized magical longsword that he picked off of some fallen adventurer. I think Koruvus is actually dead as he vanished several months ago after he supposedly discovered a “secret hideout” in a cave along the cliffs, but the Seven Tooth goblins remain convinced he is out there still, a ghost or worse, waiting to murder any goblin who tries to discover his hideout.

Vorka is a notorious goblin cannibal who lives in the Brinestump marsh, a “hero” mostly to goblins other than the Licktoad tribe.

Rendwattle Gutwad is the obese chieftain of the Brinestump goblins, a corpulent monster who, it is said, never leaves his throne.

Ripnugget is the leader of the Thistletop goblins and controls what the five tribes agree is the best lair.

And then there’s Bruthazmus, an infamous bugbear ranger who lives in northern Nettlewood and often visits the five tribes to trade things he’s stolen from caravans for alcohol, news, or magic arrows."


Shalelu pauses, a look of distaste crossing her face.

"Bruthazmus and I have a bit of a history. He hates elves and I dislike bugbears preying on the innocent. We have crossed paths several times but I have not been able to put him down yet, nor he I. I will get him one day, that I promise but until then he is a threat to the region."

"Something's missing...  So from what you are saying each has their own hero, but none of the hero's like one another. So what could have brought them all together? We're missing a vital piece of the puzzle here that must be found." She said in thought. "We need to find the dynamic that has changed between them, and put it back the way it was. With the tribes united they will only grow in both threat and tenacity."

Kaddock listened to Shalelu's tale. Some people looked down on the half bloods but to his reckoning a mix of blood had less to do than whether one was competent and trustworthy.  Certainly Shalelu seemed to be both from what he had heard of her and what he'd observed so far.  "Did you get a chance to examine any of the dead from the attack?  Were the goblin raiders from all five tribes?"

Talitha listens to Shalelu, trying to follow with all the names of the tribes, locations and the so called goblin heroes.
After a while she seems to have lost track of all names.
"I say we pick one tribe, go there and try to ambush a group of goblins from that tribe. Interrogate them for more info and then kill them. Maybe the smallest tribe, just in case."
She pauses for a second "I'd say try to ambush the ranger, that old friend of yours. But looks like that's going to prove difficult. He sounds like he's quite sneaky."
She keeps eating while talking.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:56, Sun 03 Jan 2021.

"Doing so would leave the town without defender's." Arialis said in thought. "We need to look into thing's here, let Shalelu do her thing out there. Why here? Why this town in particular? And why with such a force? That was no mere raid. Raids are small, grab and go. They were here to kill and claim. Why? What's here, or what was here that they or whoever is pulling their strings is after..."

"I think it is critical that we answer the questions that Talitha asked.  Shalelu, are any of the tribes open to communication or are they all hostile?  It would be good to understand what and why the attack was made.  Perhaps one or more of us might scout with Shalelu if we don't just get in her way."

"Hmm, the crypt still disturbs me but yes. This is these are the more pressing answers we need." Razyll said after he finished chewing his grilled fish carefully.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:53, Sun 03 Jan 2021.

Shalelu nods at Kaddock.

"From what I can tell, yes there were members from all of the tribe present. There is no reason that I know of that would have them cooperate with one another on their own. I can think of a few ideas. One is that one of the goblins has beaten the others into submission. It is possible, especially if they have acquired some magical weapon or new ally. Another idea is that a charismatic shaman might have united the tribes as part of some previously unknown prophecy, real or imagined. Goblins are highly superstitious and that can be both a boon as well as a bane. If they believe the goblin gods are blessing them for some unholy crusade that might explain their new found unity and ferocity. Finally, and this I think is most likely, is there is a new player in the area. It is not unheard of for orcs or giants to cow goblin tribes into submission. The same goes for any number of nefarious organizations. It takes very little to beat a tribe into servitude. Keeping them under control is another thing entirely but goblins are not very bright. A show of force and the promise of mayhem and loot would be enough, at least for a little while."

"I agree. A new player, an outside force, seems the most likely reason why they are banding together." Arialis said with a simple nod. "Which brings us back to who or what? As well as why attack here with such a force? Sandpoint is a small community, with little meaning. No offence. What is or was here for such a force to come for it?" She considered for a moment. "What's the history of this area?"

Talitha nods as Arialis speaks. "I agree a new player involved is likely the most plausible explanation. And I think if we find the answer to why attack here we might be able to answer as well the who or what."
She smiles and continues."Maybe it's me wanting some more action, but I still think our best option is to go get some goblins and best them until they speak." and with a snide look "and maybe a little more afterwards"

"Goblins most times won't speak, least not thing's we want to hear. They talk gibberish, of just enough to make us think they know something." She reminded Talitha. "Beating the little greenie's until we're blue in the face will get us no where. We'd need someone higher up then a simple goblin."

Talitha shrugs her shoulders. "Most times goblins won't speak, but at least we'll be checking all the boxes if we try this. Shalelu says they are very superstitious, so maybe we can use that in our advantage if we capture them."
She turns, looks at the waiter and orders another pint of ale.
"I agree that it might not the best option, but I need to start doing something other than wait for things to happen. I've been living on these folks gratitude for too long and I feel I need to prove I'm still useful to them."
Then the pint arrives and she welcomes it with a smile. "And you know there are only a number of ways a person like me can be useful."
And drinks.

"Then I say we investigate here, see what we find. There has to be something here, in Sandpoint, that we are missing." She said with a nod. "We find what they were after, we find a very important clue."

Faeli nodded while finishing her spicy cake with a cool refreshing cup of milk.

"We might investigate here if you want to. But I will not be of great help in that case." She drinks her ale and assumes that they'll react to the next attack, instead of striking first.

"What is there to investigate here?" Tristen asked aloud. "The dead goblins are a week old. I suppose we can ask the sheriff if they appeared to be from the same tribe." He raised an eyebrow. "In fact, that is a place to start."

"We can confirm if all of the goblins were from the same tribe or not. They may have markings or something that might let us know."

"Since Shalelu confirmed that all tribes were involved that definitely points to a new player or players.  They attacked during the dedication of the new church which was previously burned down in fire and along with murders.  So the previous misfortune may be linked although we have only coincidence.  I think going out and confronting one of the tribes will get us answers soonest.  The only other source of clues will be the crypt."

"Now we are getting somewhere." She said with a nod. "Let's look into what happened to the old church. Let's also look into a bit of the history of the region. See if anything evil or untoward happened here, you know, stories and such...  Even old tales have small grains of truth to them. There has to be something here, whoever is pulling the goblin's strings, wanted, or that we are missing.

Then she looked towards Shalelu. "While we do this, Shalelu would you be willing to continue to see if you can find any ties between the tribes out there? What may be the link binding them together, or a hint as to what it is?"

"Maybe we can split. While some of you can stay here and dig about the church past, I'll gladly join Shalelu for a visit to one of the tribes. As Kaddock says 'confronting one of the tribes will get us answers soonest'. And I'm in for beating some more goblins."
You can tell that Talitha is not very excited about the whole investigating approach, and she does prefer the beat-the-goblins approach.

Just then the door of the inn opens and Aldren Foxglove, the noble the party had saved a week before, walks in. He looks around and grins from ear to ear when he sees the heroes all together at a table.

"Ah hello, brave heroes. Do you know what they are calling you? The Heroes of Sandpoint. To think the locals have already lifted you up to a bard's tale in such a short amount of time. I hope I am not interrupting but I was hoping to speak with you about something that is a little time sensitive."

He looks between the heroes and Shalelu with a questioning look.

Shalelu takes a long swig, finishing off her mug of ale.

"No we are done here. I will gather supplies and leave in the morning to see if I can find anything useful in the wilds. It does not seem wise to blindly march around the woods without knowing what has changed. I will spend a few days shadowing the nearest tribes to see if I can discover what has happened and report back."

Shalelu doesn't seem upset with anyone in particular but it is clear this is likely the most attention that she has had in years and the demands of being in a social setting appear to have exhausted her. She picks up the remains of her meal and heads to the bar to have a quick chat with Ameiko before disappearing to her room.

Aldren stays to the side, seemingly oblivious that his interruption caused Shalelu to retreat. As soon as she was gone he gestures towards the empty chair and, assuming there are no objections, he takes her seat.

"I was hoping to catch you all in town. I wish I had sent a missive ahead of me to set up a proper meeting but it is what it is is. You see, one of my workers is related to a local hunter who has informed me through him that there is a rather large boar in the area. A boar hunt would be most exciting, don't you think? I put together some supplies for a quick excursion, only a few hours from here by horse I'm told but I was hoping the Heroes of Sandpoint wouldn't too busy to decline an invitation. Hunting alongside the heroes that saved my life would be such a delight for me. Plus if we bring down the boar we can bring it back here for dinner. I am sure the proprietor of this establishment could do wonders with fresh boar meat. Paired with the red that I've brought and I could then treat you to a proper feast while my home is still undergoing renovations."

"Count me in for the expedition. I'm happy to be of help and I'd love to try the boar meat and your wine."
Talitha says with a smile. She's happy there is a job where she can use her skills.

"We were going to make some inquiries here around the town." Tristen looked a bit annoyed that the nobleman was intending to go on a hunt. But it seemed that he didn't know the potential trouble in Sandpoint. "Perhaps another time, Sir Foxglove. We do have a few questions to pass along to the Sheriff."

Kaddock held his tongue as Aldren entered.  It looked like he would have rather headed off with Shalelu but he didn't want to push the reclusive hunter at the moment.  Rather now it seemed that they'd been given the choice to get out of town and stretch a bit.  "I'll join you for a brief hunt.  We have much to do here but I've been cooped up in the town long enough that I need to get out and breath the clear air of the countryside."

"Perhaps Sir Tristen, a hunt might be just what is needed to relieve everyone's need to go out and beat something up. A few hours should not hurt us to much." She said, with a small nod.

Tristen smile when he allowed himself to think about hunting. "I do enjoy hunting. Perhaps..." He looked at the others, "How about we write a letter to the good sheriff. We can ask if someone had taken the time to examine the goblin bodies from over a week ago to determine if they came from the same tribe or if they believed that they were from different tribes. It may be too late to recheck the bodies. So this line of questions is a long shot." When Tristen mentioned a 'long shot', he relaxed. "I will join you on this hunt. Thank you, Sir Foxglove."

"That's exactly what I wanted to hear!" Talitha grabs Tristen's shoulder and vigorously shakes him while she laughs and cheers the audience.

Aldren grins and claps his hands trimuphantly.

"It is settled then. Go and gather whatever supplies you need and meet in front of this very inn. If you do not have it already I can arrange for horses and food for the day.

I've hired a local guide and a couple men-at-arms to aide in the hunt and my manservant, Wadsin, will handle the rest!"

Aldren is practically vibrating from excitement. Grinning from ear to ear he shoots to his feet and departs with haste to make sure everything is ready for their departure.

Kaddock smiled at Aldren's excitement.  "Then we look forward to it.  If you can arrange for food and a horse for me that would be welcomed."