(PF) Rise of the Runelords: Burnt Offerings IC

[maggie_mcknife]

22 Rova, 4707

It has been an unduly hot summer and on this auspicious day of the Equinox, the air is thankfully crisp with the first hints of Autumn. Nestled amongst the high cliffs of Devil’s Platter, beneath a magnificent gold and purple hued sunset, the town of Sandpoint is ablaze with lights, laughter, and good cheer. It is the Swallowtail Festival, a carnival time of renewal and hope – and as the released swallowtail butterflies rise to the sky in a storm of colour and life, so do the spirits of the town.


Sirus:
The crowd around you roars in soused approval as with a clever shift of weight, you use the crook of your foot to sweep the pouch of copper coins off the middle of the table and into your palm. At the same time, your swift movement causes your opponent to lose his balance and tumble towards the edge of the table. Having abstained from alcohol, however, your reflexes remain quick enough and you manage to grab hold of his hand, preventing him from being unceremoniously sprawled on the ground. Raising your fistful of coins to the cheering crowd, you nod sportingly at your opponent, accept his congratulations, and step lightly off the table, making way for another pair to play the game.

You would really like a cup of tea after facing multiple opponents, but it doesn’t seem like you’re going to have any luck, considering the amount of alcohol you’ve already seen being served. Counting the coppers in the pouch, you figure that you have enough to splurge on some hard cheese and bread from a nearby push-cart – it is a festive occasion, after all. Although there are still ample leftovers from the massive lunch sponsored by the local taverns, the thought of greasy food turns your stomach, and simple plain fare sounds best right now.

Carrying your food in hand, you find a seat for yourself on an upturned barrel and calmly survey the crowd around you, idly wondering where the rest of the caravan you arrived with could have got to. The crowd is mostly human with the occasional dwarf, though you do chance to spy a strapping half-orc woman in martial leathers way across the town square, the huge flagon of homebrewed ale in her paw spilling slightly as she quaffs the lot in one go.



Cipriano:
You’ve lost the wallet-snatch game to the quiet half-orc in the shabby doublet from your caravan, but no matter. You tried your best. Besides, victor or not, there is no way he could have possibly impressed as many pretty wenches as you did. (None of the wenches here are as pretty as you, of course, but then, you’ve never been one to complain about that sort of womanly attention.)

Once your opponent has left the ringed-off area with his prize in hand, you grin broadly at the massed townsfolk around you and punch the air in jubilation. Judging from the tone of the responding cheers, you did actually impress a fair number of ladies. Perhaps some of them wouldn’t say no to hanging out with you later on. Still grinning widely, you return to the corner where you’ve stashed your belongings. As you shrug your shirt back on, you are sure that you can hear a few disappointed murmurs and sighs, but you’re not about to push your luck by turning around to wink.

Speaking of luck… Once you are done changing, the game organiser pushes a brimming tankard into your hand, which you gladly accept. After giving thanks to the Accidental God, you take a quick sip and enjoy the coolness of the brew in your parched throat. All in all, it’s been a pretty good day so far, what with the exercise and the beer and the ladies. Sandpoint’s nowhere as bustling as Magnimar, but that’s part of the place’s charm. Perhaps you could really get used to this sort of life.


Setsuna:
Picking at the bowl in front of you, you finally sigh to yourself and push it away, looking out over the milling crowd in the square. It’s not that the food isn’t good – in fact, this is an excellent bowl of curried salmon – even now, the rich aroma of hot spices makes your mouth water and reminds you a little of home. It’s just that the knowledge that it was made by Ameiko Kaijitsu, whose attention you’d rather not draw right now, makes the food stick in your throat as you swallow.

You stand up and stretch, massaging the back of your neck. It hasn’t been a very good day for you so far either. For some reason, your fingers seemed to fumble at the dice, you almost slipped and fell while dancing, and you lost out in the balance games to some weird shirtless priest-man who wouldn’t stop flexing his muscles when he wasn’t looking at your chest. Come to think of it, the townsfolk as a whole don’t really seem to approve of your dressing either. Or could it be because of your tiefling blood? It can’t be – you’ve seen enough fellow tieflings on the road since you’ve left Minkai. Yet it seems as though you’ve been getting more than your usual share of odd glances and whispers since arriving in town.

Nevertheless, you try to shove away the negative thoughts as you slip through the crowd, looking for a drink of some sort to wash the taste of curry from your mouth. This is supposed to be a happy occasion for Sandpoint, with the church being reconsecrated and all. You heard a little about it on your way here from some travellers also headed here for the festival – something about their old chapel burning down, taking poor Father Tobyn and his daughter with it.

At this point, the press of the crowd jostles someone off her feet and against your side. It’s a young red-haired woman who’s even shorter than you are. She smiles shyly at you and whispers a hurried apology, before scurrying away to a nearby table where the largest female half-orc you’ve ever seen sits waiting.


Rico:
You’re well into your seventh beer by now – eight, if you count Red’s share, which you swiped while she was off getting some wintermead – and it doesn’t seem to be helping your mood much. Even winning some of the weightlifting challenges and arm-wrestling a couple of silly out-of-towners to their knees didn’t make you feel any better. Deprived of your watchman armour and halberd, you feel oddly naked in the crowd and can’t help patting your hip belt every few minutes to make sure that your greatsword, trusty companion that is it, is still there. Taking a slurp from your tankard, you glare out at the crowd. You’re sure some of them are quite definitely criminals who need arresting and a good old smacking upside the head to shake the fear of the law back into them. Perhaps two smackings, if they happen to be Scarzni thugs out to cause trouble. Three smackings, if they’re out to disrupt your adopted town’s festival.

Still, you muse to yourself as you scratch your arm and stare down into what’s left of Red’s beer, you’re supposed to be off duty right now. You’re supposed to be relaxing, having fun. Only you’re not exactly quite sure what exactly ‘fun’ is supposed to entail if it doesn’t involve catching criminals and beating the motherloving snot out of them.

Red returns, raises her eyebrows at the sight of two empty tankards, but says nothing, simply eyeing you with some concern as she pours out your share of the wintermead.

[North_Ranger]

"You know, Eunice... a man could get used to this kind of life", Cipriano laughed to himself as he leaned his back against his pack beast. One hand held the frothing tankard, callused fingers gently rubbing the sweating, cold metal to sip in the delicious cool of the brew, while the other rose to rub behind the donkey's ear, just the way she liked it. The donkey paid him little mind, though, drinking greedily from the watering trough, giving him a moment for introspection and observation. Good food, good cheer, good mead... and the ladies were a handsome, warm-blooded bunch for sure. Maybe the town cleric - what was his name again? Zootus? Zetus? - could be persuaded to lend a roof to a fellow ecumenical.

Later, Cipriano told himself as he lifted the tankard back to his lips and drank heartily. Now, we celebrate, he thought to himself as he finished his tankard and set it aside. Humming to himself he slipped back into his armor and surcoat bearing the overflowing stein of the Drunken Hero. Walking over to the market stalls, he ordered two pints of the local applejack, and brought them over to the half-orc who had bested him in the snatch game.

"To the victor", the young human cleric said with a grin as he placed the pint before the half-orc. "This one's on me, friend."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

This has been a strange day. What on earth and under heaven had possessed Sirus to take part in that silly, undignified competition he would never know. If only the Brothers back in Cassomir could see him, they would have a collective apoplexy. It would suit them, too. But that was another life. He was here now. Perhaps a few ...festivities could be excused. It has been three days now, which Sirus has spent in long walks in and around town. So far, nothing.

Oh Mistress of the Spire, what would you have me do in this town? What do you want me to do for Desna?

But patience. The Spire is Long and Twisted, as the Book says.

Outwardly, none of these thoughts show. The half orc 's face could have been carved from stone. The few patrons that came near took one look at the half orc 's cold expression and left in a hurry. As usual, Sirus finds himself eating calmly in the center of a circle where noone would sit. Just as well.

Suddenly, a full tankard lands in front of him. Sirus looks up, one eyebrow raised, to the young human he had just bested. Surprises never ended apparently. A cheerful young priest, from the caravan no less.

"This is. Very kind. Of you." Cordiality is in order
"Please. Join Me."
As an afterthought
"You shouldn't drink. Without eating. Something."

Sirus nods to the serving girl for another dish. His voice is smooth, polished, slithering almost and his face on of polite, aloof cordiality. He makes a polite gesture of welcome to his guest. Soon, the girl, swallowing nervously, leaves an extra tray.

[North_Ranger]

"Much obliged, friend", Cipriano answered with a smile as he took a seat in the half-orc's company. Not waiting for the calmly-speaking fellow to pick up his own stein, Cipriano already had his on his lips, drinking deeply before setting the mug down.

"I have to say, you had some moves back there. Heck, I had about as much chance of winning that as convinving Cayden to lay off the hooch", the young priest laughed, clearly trusting that his patron god - the joyful, laughing, mercurial mercenary-turned-deity - wouldn't mind a friendly jape.

"I don't think we've been properly introduced, though", he continued, extending an armored hand. "Cipriano, of Magnimar. I think I saw you in the caravan on the way here, but never caught your name, ser...?"

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico hunches over the table of empty trenchers and empty flagons, her scarred face set in a scowl. Her battered greatcoat of heavy leather barely contains the thick thews of her arms and neck.

Beneath the half-open coat's shadow, her bosom heaves with another sigh that paints the flagon with froth. She scowls deeper still at the blouse of scarlet silk that Missus Mila had foisted upon her. At least there's her personal-non-professional chainmail beneath and the padded gambeson beneath that still. Damn the sweat, but some's better'n none.

Keen eyes pick out likely cutpurses and swindlers, here and there through the crowd. By their weaving, their glance and their stance those sots over there might turn violent. Asmodeus' arse, let them come.

An idle hand flicks up a gnawed beef bone into her jaws for yet more gnawing through that incessant scowl. Amber eyes glare a hundred-mile stare into nothingness... or whoever unlucky mug might cross her eyes' path.

Broad wolvish ears twitch at footfalls coming from behind her. Her left fist tightens around one tankard, her right twitches upward towards the hidden hilt of a shortsword sheathed on the inside of her coat's spine. A heartbeat later, she forcibly relaxes, her ears and nose confirming the familiar gait and scent...

...Rico grunts as Red sits back down and begins pouring drinks. She looks away with a frown, some blood rising to her face as she lets go of the tankard. Her right hand scratches a nonexistent itch on her ear and tucks away some stray charcoal-black hair as an excuse for her hand-on-hilt twitchiness.

"Sorry..." she says to Red. "...hrhmm, and thanks."

Thick brows knit together as she snorts violently, stroking her peace-bonded greatsword's pommel. Moving fluidly despite the drunkenness, she adjusts it such that it is sheathed across her broad back so that it isn't a tripping hazard for people passing beside their table.

She grunts again at Red and says, looking at her over the rim of her stein, "Hey. Sorry about that--- almost trippin' ye wi' me clumsy sheathing. HEH. You did great, slammin' me on me back on deh mat that time, eh?"

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus


"Thank you. My name is Sirus. Of... Taldor."
"In truth, I have never. Tried. These moves. In that way, before. It is good. To know. That I can."

Sirus takes a small sip out of the offered tankard. Civility and cordiality are the bones of society.

"But I am sure. That the moves. You actually wanted to try. Were very successful. " A rather imperceptible nod to a group of giggling girls who steal glances at the handsome young cleric.
"Thus. I am surprised. And of course honored. That you did not offer a tankard. To the other victors. Though, I would not. Recommend. Trying it. At the Glaring Tho-Uruk lady"

While the face remains impassive, some slight lines of tension seem to fade as Sirus talks with the charismatic young man.

"Would you care. For some honey and fruits?"

[Desril]

I can not believe I made such a fool of myself, Setsuna sighs again and wanders in the same direction as the girl who was pushed into her before half out of a general desire to move and half for wishing to apologize for bumping into the girl who ran off before she could open her mouth.

Catching a whiff of some of the local beverages, Perhaps I should have had a few drinks after all, I might not have been so stiff.

Edit: (Missed the last line in the description, rolled a 2 perception check that didn't need rolled to spot Red and Rico's table ([roll0] since the thing seems to be making a fuss about not matching the database))

Setsuna makes her way over to the girl and her half-orc companion, drawing her attention with a light tap on the shoulder and polite smile, "Good evening, sorry for bumping into you a moment ago, it was more my fault than your own." She gives a slight bow, "My name is Setsuna, might I ask for yours and your friend's?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano

"If you allow me to pay for my half", the young cleric agreed with a broad smile. "Even though I'm willing to bet crowns to crust that a man of your stature should have no trouble finding lodging and employment here. Sandpoint is at the edge of settled land, after all. There's bound to be need for strong hands and backs here."

At the mention of other moves, Cipriano turned to look at the girls. He knew they were there, but he didn't let that show on his face. Instead, he offered them a smile and a wink, enjoying the resulting giggles and blushing cheeks.

"And yes, you are correct... It might be unwise to rouse the good deputy from her drinking. Quite sacrilegious, even"

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus


"No need. You are. My guest. I have... few. Guests.

It seems. That I have been...employed.Already.But I still.Have difficulty.Perceiving my work. And my skills are. Somewhat specific."

Sirus suddenly realizes that he has become quite outspoken. The fact surprises him. He would never have expected such rapport with the human.

"What brings you.Here?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano

The young man shrugged as he popped a small grape in his mouth. "The road. And maybe, just maybe a coalition of angry fathers in Magnimar", he laughed. "No, I'm just kidding with you... I guess you could say it is a pilgrimage. I was only recently ordained, and my mentor believed I could do most good by getting out on the road and seeing where the road takes me."

"So far, it has turned quite well. If the local minister is welcoming, I might even stick around for a while in this lovely township."

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico tenses yet again as she senses footsteps on an intercept course, then sighs across her tankard when she sees it's only that outlander swordmaid who has some strange ideas of singing and dressing.

Pfft. So long's whatever's practical's practical, who gives a whit what they dress? Hrrghmm, shoulda whomped on those hecklers.

She glares at the demon-girl, first making eye contact to judge sincerity, then letting her gaze quickly scan musculature, stance, position of hands and clothing--- what little of it there is, for any telltale bulges of hidden weaponry besides the openly worn sword at her right hip. The brooding halforc raises her tankard for a sip, then gestures with it towards one of the empty seats at their table.

Rico flashes a momentary quirk of her lips at Red, a mere tenth of a smile and mayhap the minutest wink at her companion, or perhaps it was merely a suppressed yawn from all the booze... then looks back up to the demon-girl and grates, "Hrhmm. You. 'Msure sure she didn't mean 'ny 'arm nor take offense from ye. Ain't that right, Red? HRHMM. Sorreh, me friend's a bit too shy fer 'er own guut, but truss meh, she's deh sweetest sellsteel this side o' Starstone."

Rico frowns and sighs again, nodding to one of the tavern wenches for a fresh round for their new guest and signing with the bone clenched in her jaw for a fresh meal-set as well. "Setsuna, eh? Call me Off--- um, Rico. Well-met. 'S'ere's Red. 'Msure she'll get 'round to 'ospitality w'en she gets over 'er pressen' state o'... estupefaccion."

Gesturing with the bone, she stares at her relative lack of clothing stonily and anchors her forehead on her tankard's rim and says, "Yer not hidin' any weapons are ye? Arrrrrh, sorreh, fergiff meh, 'm off-duty, ain't got no right ta question such."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red doesn't know what estupefaccion is. She'll have to remember to ask Rico to explain that one later. It sounds like a flowy foreign kind of dress - maybe something with tiny bells and red lace. Is there supposed to be someone here who's wearing one now?

"...It's all right, Rico. There are lots of... people here today. S'crowded." she says softly, tapping the half-orc's arm before smiling at the newcomer again.

"Hello Miss Setsuna. Are you... new to Sandpoint? I haven't seen you here before."

[Desril]

Setsuna tenses slightly as the half-orc gives her a cursory inspection and returns the gaze, noticing the bulging muscles and instantly recognizing the look of someone who has been through more than their fair share of fights and come out on top. She's on edge, I wonder if this town has had trouble recently or if I just look that out of place? Once the mutual inspection is finished she relaxes, glad to talk to someone who doesn't spend every moment either glaring at or ogling her.

She moves to sit down at one of the empty chairs next to Rico, still smiling politely. "Thank you, Rico-san, and well-met indeed, and to you, Red-san.

She speaks like a brute, but gruff or not at least she's kind to strangers, if a little suspicious of them.

Deciding to answer the half-orc's question anyway, she responds, "Your question is perfectly fine, and you do not have to worry about me having any weapons, this katana is the only blade I have. As you have seen, I am somewhat lacking in places in which one can store weapons," she answers the question with a light chuckle.

After Red speaks up, she is shy, isn't she? Setsuna turns to her to answer her inquiry, "As a matter of fact, I am. I only arrived early today, and when I found out about this charming festival I could not help but take part, though I think I only made a fool of myself...What of the two of you?" She glances between Rico and Red, "Is this your home? And is there a reason why you are worried about hidden weaponry, if you do not mind my asking?"

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Still smiling faintly, Red shrugs and uses some of the spilled beer to draw lines on the table with her finger. "Not mine- hers. Rico is... a deputy. Just not... deputing right now. ...I live... where I find work."

Red hasn't been home in years and remembers precious little of her family traditions. But she's done enough travelling around in the years since leaving the monastery to know a little more about the land her father came from.

"... Are you from Minkai?" She asks curiously, glancing at the beautiful curved blade currently resting on Setsuna's lap.

[Desril]

Setsuna

A deputy? Well, that explains why she's so cautious even while off duty. That dedication is impressive, she looks to Rico with an approving glance before returning her gaze toward the shy human.

She nods, "I am, yes, though I left my home a long time ago and have not been back."

She looks over the fit red-headed woman noticing the rosary on her wrist, but not quite able to place her heritage, the red hair throwing off the Tianese facial structure. She subconsciously moves her hand to her katana as she thinks of home, has it really been two years since I left? It seems like a life time.

"From a small town in the Ikkaku Peninsula to be more precise. I've been traveling the world ever since I left, though I am still trying to adjust to this country's customs. She smiles warmly, trying to give off a friendly air that her new acquaintance would be comfortable in, "What about you, Red-san? Where do you and your charming red hair hail from?"

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico merely grunts and takes a bleary-eyed swig as she takes in Setsuna's words.

Yyyyeah, drive it in, why don't you?

She nods at Red's answers and says, "Aye. Wot she said. Whaaahhhyy? Because ITSCH mah jaaahb. Keepin' dah peace an' dah ordah. Deh Laaaaauuuuwwhhhh is mah laayfff and mah 'onahr. Dat and... yew look like yew been onna travels a lawt, seh, stannnss tah reesen yeff done yer farr bit o' suhrvavven."

Frowning deeply, she says into her stein, "Why check? Better safe'n sorry, eh?"

She returns Red's gesture with a tap of her own--- Hrhmm. One thing there, being friendly's that bit easier without armour nor gauntlet. Don't want to be hurting her with courtesy now, do I?

BAH. A foreigner's unpopular tunes still be better'n a traitor snitching bitch of a minstrel... grr... Rico juts her chin at Setsuna then glares in the direction of the tavern's minstrel's stage. "Iffen yer wond'rin, Red... she came. She sang. Wuzzent 'alf-bad, then again, ye knows meh ears. Rotten crap wuz flying, hadta bail 'er out with a table-shield. Pff. People, eh?"

Belatedly, she realizes that either she must have been rambling over the others... "BAAAAHHH. Sorreh 'bout that, y'all."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Charming? That wasn't what people usually said. Her father had always muttered something about red hair and demons. People who had seen her fight sometimes made fun of her for it. Even Rathi had teased her a little too, that her hair was the same flaming colour as fox fur in summer, and that if she were to ever get lost in snow, she'd be found in no time at all.

All the same, Red can't help but blush slightly, rubbing the back of her bare neck. "Uh... I'm from here. Varisia. Don't know which part of Tian-Xia my... father comes from."

Even now, the mention of her father leaves a sour taste in her mouth. Rico's mention of the afternoon's escapade, however, manages to raise a quiet chuckle.

"...Yes, I know. I liked the song, actually. But the table was fun. ...We should try it again. This time... I do the singing." At the prospect of mischief, Red's dark eyes gleam the colour of warm brandy on a cold night, almost daring Rico to say something.


GM Post

At this point, a sharp retort like the crack of distant thunder slices through the gathered crowds. A stray dog that has crawled under a nearby wagon to sleep starts awake, and the buzz of conversations around you quickly hushes. Those who turn their heads towards the central podium behold Father Zantus, the local Desnan cleric, clambering atop the stage. It seems that it is just about time for the re-consecration of the church to begin.

[Desril]

Setsuna looks apologetically toward the deputy, "It is quite alright Rico-san, it was my fault please excuse my rudeness for talking over you. And you are right, it is better to be safe than to find an unseen dagger at your back..."

Turning back to Red, "That sounds delightful, I would love to hear a song from this region," but before she can say more the cleric draws the crowd's attention, "but it seems that shall have to wait."

[Miraqariftsky]

This time, the sullen halforc's head slowly moves as she stares at her, one corner of her mouth twitching into a smile at what Red said and how she chuckled. She growls and says, "WHEN yeh do, nobody better heckle. Asmodeus' arse, theyya better give yeh ah, uh, clap their 'ands off. Else I clobber 'em."

Slowly, she lets go of her stein and looks at her large, callused hand, curling it back into a knuckle-crackling fist, then opening her hand again. "That wouldn't be right, though, would it? ...Would it?"

Rico slowly nods, the heartbeat's smile not fading, for once. "Be't as't may, yeh'll 'ave my claps."

Nodding gravely at Setsuna, Rico stands, drains her flagon, slams it back down and bows. "And I'm sorreh fer bein' ihhopsitable an' drunk off meh arse."

The glare returns as, standing, she spots Father Frakker over the chaos of the crowd, speaking animatedly with what seems to be a vagabond orcblood pugilist? entertainer? pilgrim?

Frak me, not on me toes. Shoulda kept tabs on these buggers... Scarzni-ganger connected? Mebbe, mebbe not. Still, holy day, truce day.

Rico gathers up her wide-brimmed hat, meets her friendly nemesis' eyes, bares her teeth and executes a mocking curtsy. She resumes her standard scowl but tips her hat at Cipriano's companion. Standing up with hardly a wobble from the tableful of drinks, she straightens her greatcoat with a tug, nods gravely at Red and says, "Deh Padre calls, Red. Looks like ye'll hafta grace deh breeze wit' yer voice summ utha time. Tsk."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano

All of a sudden Cipriano could feel the hair in the back of his neck shoot up. Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed the drunken half-orcess giving him the death stare across the crowd. Hafta be careful with this one, the young cleric contemplated. This one's out to get me. She already had earlier that day, after that one Sandpoint local had suffered a most unfortunate choleric bout due to Cipriano's involvement with his daughter. It had all been quite innocent (mostly because the girl's bodice had been laced as tight as a padlocked strongbox), but try telling that to a man who was convinced you had ravished their little girl. It had taken every bit of guile and goodwill from Cipriano's part to convince the father and the half-orc deputy not to throw him in jail for the festivities... and he intended to keep the situation that way.

Besides, the girl had mentioned she had a sister...

"Ah, speak of the devil", he laughed to Sirus. Just when he had mentioned the town minister. "Shall we go and have a closer look? I've always found the rites and rituals of the Song of the Spheres quite interesting..."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus nods as he too sees the Stare of the Law settle on them. But he knew that look. The half orcess was strict and suspicious, not mean. There was a world of difference. Sirus knew. He had been that difference.

Finishing his tea and his food, he leaves the necessary amount on the table, plus a tip. Cordiality.

"Yes. Let us observe."

A consecration. Could that be it?

Sirus will move by the cleric, not bothering to criss-cross around the crowd. He will move, in his unbending way, palms held before him, straight to a place of good visibility, staring at those who stand in his path until they move. Somehow, even when he is at their back, the townsfolk notice him and give him room.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

"But Rico..." says Red patiently, slightly tickled that the other two are missing the whole point of her offering to sing. "... they need to... say boo and throw things. If not, we won't get to run... with the table again. And you won't get... to clobber them later."

Upon seeing Rico get to her feet, Red slowly stands up as well. She wouldn't ordinarily bother with the festival of another god, but this is Desna's festival after all. Besides, if Rico decides to topple over from too much drink, someone's going to need to catch her before she hits the ground.

She checks to see that all her belongings are still with her before looking up and nodding at Setsuna. "Miss Setsuna, would you like to come with us? This is... the important bit of today."


GM Post

Those of you who have decided to move closer to the stage, either to hear Father Zantus' address or to get a better look at what's going on, gently elbow your way through the crowd until you are standing near the front of the podium. Packed in this close together, the crowd reeks of sweat and spilled beer, but nobody seems to mind very much.

Father Zantus is a spry middle-aged man with a trim bread and a kindly twinkle in his eye. Beaming, he clears his throat and addresses the people who have gathered.

"Good evening, brothers and sisters. And to those of you who are here in Sandpoint for the first time, welcome! It is my great honour to-"

Unfortunately, you don't get to find out what exactly it is a great honour to be doing. Before the good Father can finish his sentence, a woman's scream cuts through the air, silencing the crowd more effectively than the thunderstone did just a while ago. A few moments later, another scream rises, then another. For those of you not frantically turning left and right in an attempt to figure out what is going on, you can just make out over the screams an odd surge of high-pitched, tittering shrieks that sound not quite human.

There is a low chorus of gasps and the crowd parts as something low to the ground races by, giggling with disturbing glee. It leaps upon the stray dog that was near the wagon and after a brief howling scuffle, the dog gives a pained yelp before collapsing to the ground with a gurgle, its blood pooling rapidly on the ground around its head. For those close enough to see, now that the crowd has parted, you find to your horror that the dog's throat has been cut open from ear to ear.

The crowd begins to disperse in all directions in a panic. Meanwhile, that thing that killed the dog tucks itself under the wagon to hide, still burbling with maniacal glee.

DC Perception 12:
You recognise the dog's assailant as a single muddy-coloured goblin, a dirty cap pulled low over its eyes. It licks the blood from its dogslicer knife as it looks excitedly out at the crowd, seeking out a new target.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus
HP 9/9

Sirus stood totally motionless as the local priest started his speech. He had been trained in patience. Perhaps the most valuable training he had ever received.

The scream cuts through his senses, as the very distinctive sound of a woman screaming is heard. Sirus turns completely, searching for the source of the noise. He sees, almost in slow motion, the crowd disperse, as the figure of a goblin races through the crowd. Sirus 's thoughts race.

A goblin? Alone? Here? Impossible!

And suddenly, the dream is upon him. The flames, the screaming, the malice, the butterflies dispersing in the air...

This is it!

Sirus starts racing to the goblin. He needs answers. He is very good at getting answers. Especially from unconscious opponents.


Perception take 10 for a total of 19.

Initiative [roll0] if you don't roll them
Move action and attack or double move and charge at the goblin. Non lethal unarmed damage, for interrogation later.
Atk FoB [roll1] and [roll2]
Dmg [roll3] and [roll4]


EDIT: It seems the second attack may not be needed. If there is another opponent nearby and has been spotted, the attack is directed at him

A few feet before the goblin, Sirus suddenly pivots and changes direction. He can feel his ki inside him, gathering like a wavefront and focusing at his hands. The goblin 's defenses still aimed at a different trajectory, it leaves itself open for Sirus' fingers, hard as steel, to knock its skull.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico
HP 22/22
AC 17/19

"HRHMM." grunts Rico in a pleased undertone at Red's scheme. "Canny. Though... though... HRHMM. Daaaaamn you're canny when ye put yerself to it, ye know that?"

When the scream cuts Zantus' speech short, there is little shock on Rico's part, only a guilty sort of vindication swiftly giving way to a tide of wrath for this incursion upon her adopted hometown. Humh! Goblin. Where there's one, there's certainly more.

Already moving, she seizes the closest small but sturdy table, tucks and braces its stem under her left armpit, holding its top as a shield. Tankards and trenchers topple to the ground even as naked steel now gleams in her right fist, the holdout shortsword unsheathed.

Her strident voice attempts to rise rings above the crowd's panic... "KEEP CALM! THOSE WHO CANNOT FIGHT, MAKE FER YER HOMES AN" LOCK "EM TIGHT! CALL THE GUARD! ALL ABLE-BODIED BUGGERS A-Y"ALL, TO ARMS, YE LAGGARDLY LOT! ORDERED RANKS, TRAYS AND KNIVES, CHAIRS AND BROOMS! FOR HOME, FOR FAMILY, FOR SANDPOINT!"...only for Rico to stop up short and choke and cough out a huge chunk of beef bone.

"Fpwweehhhh! STUPID!"

Even as she yells chokes, she crests through the crowd, not towards the one visible goblin which apparently that outlander pugilist is already covering, but rather for where the scream came from. At her side, she spits and grates with a grin, "Redddd, just like old times, you know what to do, eh? Setsuna, y'see the old priest and the nobles near 'im? They might need some safeguarding. Or y'could stick with us, take the left flank, Red takes the right?"


Actions: Intimidate the crowd into order: [roll0] <---CRAP.
Move: Move to wherever the scream came from. SURELY it ain't just the one goblin.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano
HP 14/14
AC 18

Spells:
0: Stabilize, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Guidance
1: Bless, Summon Monster I, Shield of Faith, Protection from Evil

Channel Energy: IIIII

The sudden screams and tumult, followed by Sirus's lightning-fast bolting after an unseen enemy left Cipriano baffled for a moment. They were under attack, that much was for certain, so the young man reacted accordingly. His right hand dove to the hilt of his rapier, and the left rose to his throat, where the carved oak symbol of Cayden Cailean's fate hung. His rapier unsheathed with an almost melodious ting, the well-maintained blade glistening in the afternoon sunlight. The leather strap holding the holy symbol around his neck gave way as the left hand yanked the symbol free.

"Cayden, the sword that defends the defenseless, guide our blades and steel our hearts against thy enemies", the young cleric prayed. The rush of divine strength surged through his body and around him, a glisten of electric blue touching drawn blades and arcing on leather and steel.

Casted Bless: every ally within 50ft. of Cipriano gains +1 bonus on attack rolls and saving throws against fear effects.

Good for 20 rounds.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM Post

Goblin's rolls:
Reflex: (1d20+2)[16]
Intiative: (1d20+6)[8]
Attack: (1d20+3)[15]
Damage: (1d4+1)[3]

The goblin, pleased with itself, simply sits there giggling madly and fails to notice Sirus approaching until the very last second. With a squeak of alarm, it whirls to face him, teeth bared as it stabs downwards with a wicked-looking homemade blade. Fortunately, the goblin's blade sinks into the ground by Sirus's foot, missing him entirely.

Too busy trying to yank its knife out the ground, Sirus' subsequent onslaught takes the little critter by surprise, his hands smashing downwards onto its skull in quick succession. The goblin drops to the ground at Sirus' feet almost instantly - unconscious - its mouth still frozen in an ugly grin.


*****

The celebration has quickly degenerated into chaos. Goblins have appeared from nowhere and they quickly swarm the town square with cries of excitement, waving their little dogslicer knives in the air. Despite Rico's valiant efforts, nobody is listening to her - those who do turn to look at the watchlady simply run all the faster. For those who look, Father Zantus has vanished from the podium and can be spotted sprinting towards a bunch of terrified townsfolk, one of his hands glowing with divine light.

Closer to the rest of you, a pack of three goblins have spotted a table still piled with food and they make for it with unmistakable delight. The greediest of the lot quickly claws his way to the top and begins stuffing his mouth and pockets with salmon, heedless of the tiny bits of fish flesh flying everywhere. The second one, much shorter, hops up and down on the ground, clamouring for his share and shaking the table leg. The third turns to glance at all of you, giving what can only be a goblin smirk. It cackles while brandishing its dogslicer.


Initiative Rolls:
Sirus: (1d20+4)[5]
Cipriano: (1d20+2)[12]
Setsuna: (1d20+4)[13]
Red: (1d20+5)[21]
Rico: (1d20+1)[3]

Goblins to power of 3:
Gob1: (1d20+6)[23]
Gob2: (1d20+6)[20]
Gob3: (1d20+6)[23]

Initiative Order:
23 - Greedy Goblin (Gob1)
23 - Smirking Goblin (Gob3)
21 - Red
20 - Goblin too short to climb table (Gob2)
13- Setsuna
12 - Cipriano
5 - Sirus
3 - Rico (still holding a table)

*****

Goblin 1

The first goblin is still too preoccupied with jamming as much food as it can into its pockets that it merely gives the lot of you an idle glance before continuing to scrape furiously the bowls on the table.

*****

Goblin 3

The smirking goblin runs a mottled tongue over its chipped teeth, laughing as it looks first at Rico, then at Setsuna. Deciding that the girl looks like much easier prey, it dashes towards Setsuna. "Goblins Chew and Goblins Bite!" It shouts with relish in a high-pitched cackle.

Goblin 3:
Attack: (1d20+3)[10]
Damage: (1d4+1)[4]

For all it's bravado, the smirking goblin makes a vicious cut at Setsuna's shins that goes wide - looks like this goblin won't be biting anyone just yet.

*****

Red
HP 20/20

Red glances with concern at Rico, though to her inner relief the surly half-orc seems none worse for the wear despite choking on that beef bone. In fact, Rico seems to be about as pleased as a duck taking to water after a long dry spell. That could only be a good thing. As for the rest of the town though...

She tries to look out for Father Zantus but can't see him all in the confusion. Alerted to the goblin slashing at Setsuna's legs by its war-cry, Red's heart skips a beat at the sudden sight of the creature. She instinctively draws her kukris and slashes downwards with one of them. "Look out!" she calls hoarsely.

Move from F8 to F7
Melee Attack: (1d20+7)[14] (+5 for kukri, +2 flanking)

In her haste, Red's kukri clips the edge of the goblin's cap and does no damage, leaving her to grit her teeth and curse unintelligibly in Varisian.

*****

Goblin 2

The little beast stops shaking the table leg and turns to face Cipriano, unwilling to leave the shelter of the table, but sniggering unpleasantly all the while. "Goblins Cut and Goblins Fight. Come'n get me, longshanks!"


It is now Setsuna's turn

*****

Battle Map
http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/6540/goblinbattle1.jpg

[Desril]

Setsuna, Blessed
HP 16/16
AC 16

Hearing the woman's scream is enough to cause Setsuna to ready her katana, though before she can locate the source of it she's set upon by a smirking goblin.

She glares at the thing contemptuously, More goblins? I can't believe this, do they have to ruin everything?!

She swiftly moves her hand across the blade, imbuing it with arcane power as she focuses on performing two strikes in quick succession that are meant to kill the monstrous beast.


Initial attack : [roll0]
Spellstrike atk: [roll1]
Concentration: [roll2]
Damage (1st) : [roll3]
Damage (2nd) : [roll4]
OOC: Using the Arcane Pool to boost the sword to a +1 for 1 minute. Casting Arcane Mark Defensively using spell combat and spellstrike to go Zorro on the goblin in addition to the standard hit. Second attack only works if I beat a DC 16 Concentration check. Two quick slashes and tattooing it with the Minkanian word for "monster" via Arcane Mark is my goal.

Edit: Critical threat on the second hit:
Confirmation: 10
Damage: 1

[maggie_mcknife]

The goblin jeers as Setsuna's blade slices through the air above its head. "Missed! Missed me, longsh-"

The goblin's cry of victory is cut short by Setsuna's second strike, her katana sinking deep into its ratty skull. Arcane energy crackles along the slender blade as the green skin above the goblin's eyes sizzles and pops, the distinct form of a Minkainian word erupting through its flesh as though hammered outward by some manic force. Immediately, the goblin's yellow eyes roll upward into its head and it falls to the cobbled ground - dead.

Cipriano's turn now.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Blessed, Raging
HP 22/22
AC 13/19 (-2 Armour, -2 Charge, -2 Rage)

Inebriated and maddened,
Rico rushes full into the flow
Of mad melee and bloodletting's play
Demon-girl beside her lays low one raiding beast
Lance-like, Rico takes the chance
And charges with her table-targe
With her wrathful might, right at those beside the... other table
But a tiny part of her digs its heels into her mind's rut
A tiny voice, saying, "They're just eating!"
"Guilty, Aye... But Leniency!"
A threat is a threat and battle is battle
Asmodeus' arse knows when where the vanguard crows
Soon a horde is soon to lord...


Rage Str + Charge + Flank (?) + Bless
[roll0]
Str check
[roll1] (+4 because of Size difference?)
Damage?
[chief's coverage.]

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano, Blessed
HP 14
AC 18

The goblins' jeering brought a wicked grin upon Cipriano's lips - even more so when he saw how skillfully the young woman who had sat in the orcess's company gave her foe the bloodied smile.

"Challenge accepted", the young man retorted and moved in for the kill, flanking the beastly little thing with the raging half-orc. With a decorative flourish he brought the glistening rapier to bear, intending to give the goblin an ear-to-ear piercing.

Move to C5, flank Goblin #2 with Rico. Attack with rapier: [roll0] (+1 from Bless, +2 from flank)
Damage: [roll1]

Bless on for 19 more rounds.

[maggie_mcknife]

The goblin ducks out of the way of Cipriano's rapier, which skewers nothing but a piece of its raggedy shirt. It sticks its tongue out mockingly at the young priest...

Rico's charge attack:
Gob1 AoO: (1d20+6)[20]
Damage: (1d4+1)[5]
Gob2 AoO: (1d20+6)[7]
Improvised weapon damage from table: (3d6)[13] (attack roll included +2 to flank since Cipriano showed up)

... only to be unceremoniously crushed under the combined looming mass of a very angry half-orc deputy and one of Sandpoint's sturdiest drinking tables. The salmon-raiding goblin looks up in a panic as Rico slams her makeshift-shield down and makes a leap for it, instinctively lashing out blindly with its dogslicer. The tiny blade draws a deep welt of crimson on Rico's arm before its owner, too, is smashed into oblivion by the drinking table.


Combat over, Initiative ends.

Rico takes 5 damage from the dogslicer.

There are now three dead goblins and one unconscious goblin (over at Sirus' feet).

[Desril]

Setsuna flicks the blood off her blade and kicks away the goblin's corpse before scanning the area, seeing that the other two have been dealt with. "These things are pretty stupid but surely they would not attack a town of this size with only three de gozaru. Be on the look out." She glances over the assembled group of those who fought, It's nice to see that so many people are willing to fight to defend the commoners, and then at Red to whisper "Thank you for the assistance," before returning to her search.

Perception check to look for other goblins or signs of trouble. (1d20-1)[12]

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Blessed, Raging
HP 27/22
AC 15/19 (-2 Armour, -2 Rage)

A moment's pain as the crude blade parts leather and flesh just before the massive weight of the makeshift tower shield pulps its malformed skull... Frowning dispassionately, Rico uses its edge to scrape the the corpses clear of the still-standing table that they were raiding.

Must... minimize... collateral... damage... in terms of... both lives... and property...

The great hunk of wood in her left arm slowly sags under its own weight and the bleeding, its bloodied edge thunking into the plaza's gravel. Hunched over, breathing heavily, a barely restrained creature of primal wrath, Rico deliberately straightens, expelling the breath from her lungs in one good HUUUUFFF.

She addresses those others who'd helped in the fray, "All y'all, good job. Father Fox, thanks fer the assist. Yeh might want ta keep yer fancy-fancy when dealing yer god's... miniministrationizings. You there, pugilist. Well done. The Watch could use someone like ye iffen ye don't mind my saying. Setsuna, yer right at that. Rrrrrrrred, on the lookout, if ye please."


Readying Charge at next group of hostiles.
[Can't take 10, since it's a danger-situation] Perception check [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red pushes her hair out of her eyes with the back of her hand, her heart still pounding, looking down at the slain goblin with an odd expression on her face.

That word... she ought to know what it meant. It probably wasn't a nice word. But what? It was one thing to kill a goblin that was attacking you. But to make a bad word on its head for everyone to see after it was dead?

Red wasn't very good with words, but she knew that words could hurt people. Oh yes, they could. There were words that stayed with you in the middle of the night, on lonely roads. Words which didn't let you sleep. Words to make you wish you were dead.

Shaking her head, Red sighs quietly and straightens up - no point thinking about it now. Not when the town is in trouble, she can still hear shouts and a whole bunch of awful chittering goblin noises. She glances sharply at Setsuna when thanked, but merely lowers her head and murmurs, her voice trailing off at the end. "...But... I didn't even hit it..."

A quick look around the area only reveals townsfolk fleeing in all directions with no sign of Father Zantus. Why did she have to be so bloody short?

Moving swiftly over to Rico, she touches her friend lightly on the elbow, her voice low with concern "...You're hurt. Goblin knives... they're not clean. You need to get help."

[maggie_mcknife]

GM Post for Mandraiv:
The Swallowtail festival had been going swimmingly for you right up to the moment the goblins attacked. You'd had your fill of cousin Ameiko's wonderful curried salmon, making sure to comment as loudly as you could on how none of the dishes offered up by the other taverns could compare, not even the peppercorn venison from the White Deer. You'd played the balance beam and weightlifting games, laughing along with the rest of the town. You hadn't won a thing at the wallet-snatch game, but that was all right, because you'd won something else despite your clumsiness - the attention of Katrine Vinder, stuffy Ven Vinder's eldest daughter. Nevermind what the washerwomen had been saying about the girl shacking up with some lumberman at the mill. The old bags were probably just jealous that they weren't as delicious as dear sweet Katrine.

Oh yes. She'd been quite willing to leave the games and toothsome nibbles behind to creep into the alley behind her father's general store to nibble on you instead. Alas, you'd gotten no further than unlacing the strings of her bodice when the screams first started. At first, you were annoyed at the distraction, dismissing it as someone's childish prank - after all, Katrine was definitely worth screaming over too. When Ameiko comes pounding down the alley calling your name though, clutching her samisen in her fist, you realise that something really serious has come up.

Pulling on your shirt and whispering a hurried apology to Katrine, you'd rushed after Ameiko as fast as you could. "It's a goblin attack! Get back to the town square and make sure everyone gets out safely! Some of those beasts have torches - don't let 'em set anything on fire either. GO!" She barks at you, dodging frightened townsfolk before giving you a smart slap on the shoulder. The last you see of your cousin before she is lost in the crowd, she is cradling her samisen to her chest, plucking forth the sweet strains of a bardic melody.

You continue to sprint down Main Street, make a sharp left on Tower street, making your way towards the Square as fast as you can. Progress is difficult due to the sheer amount of people running everywhere. You can hear the goblins jeer and screech, but you can't see them.

[Miraqariftsky]

"Yer right at that, Red. Worry ye not o'ermuch, 'sjust a scratch..." Looking down at the concerned Red, the halforc deputy grimaces. She lets her improvised club-qum-shield sag to the cobbles, sheathes the shortsword in her right hand then shrugs off her greatcoat, draping it on the toppled table's unbloodied edge.

Working with professional efficency, she squeezes her wounded left forearm to quicken the bleeding. She then rips the scarlet silk blouse--- the only fancy thing she owns, worn only at Red's request earlier this morning--- seizes a bottle of brandy nearby and soaks the now-ragged strip of cloth. While setting to bandaging her wound, she snorts and she jokes at Red, "Hrhmm. Sorry 'bout ruinin' yer idea. Looks like we'll hafta wear earplugs next time Missus Mila comes along, eh?"

With nary a wince, she flexes her freshly cleansed, freshly bandaged arm and nods judiciously. She takes out her shortsword from its spine-sheath and gives the broad, slightly curved blade a twirl. Those who would be savvy to such matters might recognize the metalwork as once having belonged to a now-broken, now-mended Sarenite sabre, with the Dawnflower's icon on the silver pommel.

She then spares a smile at Red as she says, "Don't worry. Be it the road or the sea, fighting inna line, inna pack, it don't matta iffen yer deh one wot does deh killshot or deh one wot backboards wi' flankin'. A team's a team, izzennit?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano
HP 14/14
AC 18

Spells:
0: Stabilize, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Guidance
1: Bless, Summon Monster I, Shield of Faith, Protection from Evil

Channel Energy: IIIII

Cipriano offered a polite bow at the somewhat backhanded compliment the half-orcess offered him. I guess this is what Uncle Silviu meant about 'carnie proficiency', he chuckled to himself. Even if you screw things up, pretend that you meant to do it and wait for the applause.

"I'll remember to ask the Drunken Hero for his aid in a more terse manner in the future", he said out loud, then hearing the short redhead's worry about the half-orc's wounds. "In fact, if you'll allow me..."

With that, the young cleric laid his hand just above the fresh, bleeding wound. The touch of his gloved hand felt cool on the half-orc's boiling flesh, until he spoke. "Cayden. This one", Cipriano spoke, his eyes and mouth suddenly bathed in the electric blue light that had accompanied Cayden Cailean's blessing. Same divine glow flowed from his hand into the wound, mending rent flesh and cauterizing ruptured veins.

Channel energy:
So that's three points back.

Just as quickly as the divine surge had appeared, it dissipated once more, leaving behind a throbbing, partially mended wound. "There... I hope that helped eased the pain, at least. I would look into it more closely, but I fear that today's battles are not yet over. But me and Cayden, we still have a few tricks up our sleeves. When the enemy comes, wait by me just a heartbeat, and you will see."

Perception check: [roll]1d20+4

[North_Ranger]

Okay, once more with gusto... Perception check: [roll0]

Also, Bless up for another 18 rounds.

[Miraqariftsky]

Face still set in her standard scowl
Rico grabs Father Fox' hand and gaze
Gives it one good pump and says in a growl
"Meant, unless ye want ta just awe an' graze
A real fight don't need no twirly flourishes."
She lets go of his hand and raises
Her own in an open gesture
Or a Sarenite gesture?
The middle and the ring
Close, flashing the Lamashi Horned Hound
Then the rest of the open hand
Closes into an iron fist
While above, her face half-smiles
Reflecting old pirates' friendly wiles
As she says, "Still, thanks fer yer 'ealin' bless, Father Fox.
I don't like makin' more foes'n need ta list'
Under chains or a shallow grave."
Somber and serious, she glares at the Minister of Merrymaking's
Making good and making brave.
"Aside from you doin' yer duty an' me doin' my duty,
Over, ah, earlier, ye reckon 'tis safe ta say ain't no 'ard feelin's?"

((Ha-hah, and yes, still IC. None of the conversation lines have rhymes with each other. Huh. Aside from the multiple internal rhymes of the second-to-the-last and the unpartnered line ending with '...Father Fox'.))

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus, seeing that the immediate melee is over, starts to tie the goblin for later interrogation. After he is done, he walks over to the others, carrying the unconscious captive.

" This. Must be secured."

" The invasion. Is far. From over. More must. Be in danger."

He then, totally oblivious and inexpressive, tries to hear any more signs of carnage.

Perception [roll0]

[Mithric Gunn]

Cursing the goblins terrible timing, Mandraiv rushes to the town square, pausing for a moment to cast a protective spell. He keeps a wary eye out for any sign of goblins, and also checks the sky for any sign of telltale smoke.
perception: [roll0]
Casting Mage Armor, 2 hour duration

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Managing a faint smile, Red pats Rico on the arm. "...S'ok. You look better in blue, anyway. Let's go. Make sure the town is... safe."

*****

GM post

Mandraiv arrives at the town square, but try as he might, he can't seem to find any goblins. Where on earth could those nasty little beasts be?

DC 4 Perception check:
There are lots of screaming Sandpointers running amok everywhere you look - it's a lot harder to spot the goblins as the little buggers just so damn tiny. You can hear the goblins, but you can't see them. What you can quite definitely see and smell though, is something burning. It appears that the cart that one of the tavern owners was using to store firewood has somehow caught fire...

The large bloom of fire that happens next takes those of you who weren't paying attention by shock - bright orange tongues of flame leaping high into the air as thick grey plumes of smoke belch forth. A short distance away, a fuel cart has caught fire and burns madly away - if something isn't done soon, the fire might spread to the roof of the nearby town armoury.

The arsonists responsible for this deed aren't bothering to hide themselves. A cheering trio of goblins wave their torches boldly, cavorting gleefully by the side of the burning cart to the scratchy, quavering voice of their warchanter.

"Stab the Dog and Cut the Horse!
Goblins Eat and Take by Force!"

The goblin warchanter spots you right away. Without pausing once in her singing, she cracks her whip and makes a rude gesture in your direction. At once, two of the three torch-waving goblins spring to attention and bound towards you, grinning wickedly. The warchanter's intent is clear - to recover her captured comrade and exact revenge for her slain tribe-mates.

*****

Initiative rolls:
Sirus: (1d20+4)[7]
Cipriano: (1d20+2)[12]
Setsuna: (1d20+4)[13]
Red: (1d20+5)[8]
Rico: (1d20+1)[4]
Mandraiv: (1d20+6)[12]

Goblin Initiative Rolls:
Gob1: (1d20+6)[10]
Gob2: (1d20+6)[24]
Gob3: (1d20+6)[10]
Warchanter: (1d20+4)[14]

Initiative Order:
24 - Goblin 2
14 - Goblin Warchanter
13 - Setsuna
12 - Cipriano
12 - Mandraiv
10 - Goblin 1
10 - Goblin 3
8 - Red
7 - Sirus
4 - Rico

*****

Goblin 2

As far as goblins go, this one is exceptionally ugly, with a wide flattened skull and a flared smash nose. It has stolen a lacy bonnet from some unsuspecting lady and wears it rakishly atop the lizard skull already strapped to its head as a trophy - the effect is at once comedic and horrific. It rushes directly towards Cipriano with a wild whoop.

Goblin 2:
Attack: (1d20-1)[4]

Unluckily for this goblin, it didn't bother to tie its prize down properly. The bonnet slips down over its eyes as it runs, causing the goblin to wail aloud and fumble blindly at its face, all the while trying to poke the torch into Cipriano's knee. Needless to say, the flailing torch comes nowhere near the cleric.

*****

Goblin Warchanter

The warchanter is immensely displeased with the antics of her tribe-mate. Spitting in defiance on the ground, she sings lounder than ever, swaying from foot to foot, the tiny bone ornaments in her ears jangling as her eyes glow bright with fury.

Move: Remains on C10
Standard: Bardic Performance - Inspire Courage

All goblins in this battle gain a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.

*****

Battle Map:
http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/6261/goblinbattle2.jpg

Initiative Order:
24 - Goblin 2
14 - Goblin Warchanter
13 - Setsuna
12 - Cipriano
12 - Mandraiv
10 - Goblin 1
10 - Goblin 3
8 - Red
7 - Sirus
4 - Rico

It is now Setsuna's turn.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Blessed, Raging
HP 20/22
AC 13/19 (-2 Charge, -2 Armour, -2 Rage)

Her coat shrugged back on, Rico seems about to answer Red when suddenly, the crackle of an inferno flashes through the screams of the crowd, choking smoke and waves of heat washing over the plaza.

Frowning deeply, the grizzled guardswoman seizes an errant pennant fluttering on a now burning wind. No time nor space nor inclination to piss on the cloth, she dunks the thing into a nearby pitcher of water, waiting a few moments for it to soak.

Meanwhile, she yells once more, "DAMNED MAGES! Y'all swift-footed friggers, get stuck in there and choke that frakker up! Take it alive, if ye can, but shut the frigger up! Fox, pray yer patron pisses on these scum. Red... you know wot ta do."

The yellow-and-white-striped pennant soaked, she ties the thing around her face as a ward against the smoke. That done, she then takes up her Sarenite short-sabre and table-shield once more and prepares to charge at whichever of the goblins remains for her to charge at...


Raging! Charging! Flanking! Power Attacking!
[roll0]<---+1, forgot the bonus from Bless, sorry.
[roll1]

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano, Blessed
HP 14/14
AC 18

Spells:
0: Stabilize, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Guidance
1: Bless, Summon Monster I, Shield of Faith, Protection from Evil

Channel Energy: IIIII

The sudden explosion of flames and goblins caught Cipriano by surprised, leaving the half-orcess without an answer for now. He would have laughed at the comical bunglings of the bonnet-wearing goblin, were the screams of terrified Sandpoint citizenry there not to remind him that this was not some comedy in a Magnimar playhouse, but battle.

Taking a cautionary step back to avoid the gumbling pyromaniac's whirling torch, the suddenly serious Caydenite cleric lifted his holy symbol high in the air and began his own chanting, as if to rival the goblin warsinger's keening voice. His voice was clear and powerful as words of power spoken in Celestial flowed from his lips, the frothing alemug symbol in his hand glowing with blinding light.

A pilar of bright light fell from the heavens as Cipriano's chanting ended, the earth shaking as the pilar hit the ground just in front of the warchanter and his guardian. From the pilar rose a deep, echoing howl of a warhound, and a vision of a graceful yet powerfully built hunting dog charged from the glittering portal to the Heavens. The red-and-gold hound howled as it charged its enemies, fangs glistening as it sought to rip the warchanter's throat open.

Take a five-foot step back to D3 and cast summon monster I at C8, calling forth a lesser descendant of cayhounds, a celestial riding dog... which then attacks the warchanter.

With smite evil, of course.

Bite: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
On a succesful bite, the dog will attempt to trip the warchanter, without provoking AoO. CMB check: [roll2]

Summoned creature: Celestial riding dog

N Medium celestial animal
Init +2; Senses darkvision 60 ft., low-light vision, scent; Perception +8

DEFENSES
AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 (+2 Dex, +1 natural)
hp 13 (2d8+4)
Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +1
SR 5
Celestial - Resist Acid, Cold, and Electricity 5

OFFENSE
Speed 40 ft.
Melee bite +3 (1d6+3 plus trip)
Special Attacks Smite evil

STATISTICS
Str 15, Dex 15, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6
Base Atk +1; CMB +3; CMD 15 (19 vs. trip)
Feats Skill Focus (Perception)
Skills Acrobatics +6 (+14 jumping), Perception +8, Survival +1 (+5 scent tracking); Racial Modifiers +4 Acrobatics when jumping, +4 Survival when tracking by scent

SPECIAL ABILITIES

Smite evil 1/day as a swift action (adds CHA bonus (+0) to attack rolls and damage bonus equal to HD (+2) against evil foes; smite persists until target is dead or the celestial creature rests).

Bless on for 17 more rounds.
Summon Monster I on for two more rounds.

[Desril]

Setsuna - Blessed (18), Arcane Pool +1(8)
HP 16/16
AC 16
The explosion was more than enough to draw Setsuna's attention to the psychotic green pyromaniacs. Upon seeing the warchanter she begins casting a spell which causes her blade to start frosting over, and the moment that's done she rushes straight toward the warchanter. These things have to die before anyone else gets hurt, but the deputy did want it alive...


Spells:
0 - Detect Magic, Arcane Mark, Spark
1 - Shield, Frostbite

Arcane Pool IIII


She moves like a blur, spinning to dodge the reach of the nearest goblin as her sarashi vanishes in a puff of flame, though her mind is too focused on the goblin threat to notice that her breasts are now exposed as she covers the distance in a second to bring down the full might of her magically imbued sword on the goblin warchanter with the intent to render it unconscious.


Using Spell-Combat to cast Frostbite, followed by using the Sarashi's power to take an additional movement action and rush to the warchanter, provoking an AoO from Goblin 1.

Making an acrobatics check to avoid the AoO at +10 DC to move at full
speed without provoking. [roll0]

Using Spellstrike for both attacks since Frostbite remains active until I've discharged 1 use/cl.

Attack: [roll1] (+1 Bless, +1 Arcane Pool, -2 Spell Combat)
2ndAtk: [roll2] (+1 Bless, +1 Arcane Pool, -2 Spell Combat)
Damage: [roll3] non-lethal slashing + [roll4] non-lethal cold, no save just fatigue.
2ndDmg: [roll5] non-lethal slashing + [roll6] non-lethal cold, no save just fatigue, but does not create exhaustion.

If the warchanter goes down on the first hit, the second is directed toward the adjacent goblin 3.

(Did a lot this round and I can't preview the post without messing up rolls, may have to make grammatical edits or clarifications)

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv, Mage Armored
15/15
AC 16

Mandraiv concentrates, and sends a whisper of an arcane lullaby wafting through the goblins mind, compelling sleep.

Casting Sleep, centered near D9, so it will hit goblins 1 and 3, and the warchanter. DC 17, 4HD maximum, lowest HD affected first.

[maggie_mcknife]

Setsuna races towards the warchanter, looking more demon-like than ever with flame tracing her naked skin and her dark eyes blazing. The goblins surrounding the warchanter reflexively cower before her apparition, leaving her path to the warchanter clear.

The warchanter sees Setsuna approaching and stubbornly stands her ground. Setsuna's clever precision strike to the side of the warchanter's head, however, leaves the goblin sprawling, knocked unconscious with the side of her head wreathed in tiny frost crystals. Another quick sweep of the katana, and the goblin warrior next to the warchanter crumples to the ground as well.

Warchanter and Goblin 3 are now unconscious.


Deprived of its prey, Cipriano's summon snarls its rage and turns on the remaining hapless goblin still near the cart. There is a wet tearing sound and a choked-off shriek - before anyone can say anything, the broken body of the goblin lies on the ground under the hound's paw, its head attached to its body by mere shreds of bloody skin. The celestial dog immediately turns to look at its summoner for approval, wagging its tail, its muzzle wet with thick green blood.

Goblin 1 is dead.

*****

GM alteration: changing the locus of Sleep to C6 to target Goblin 2, aka Bonnet Goblin, since everything else is dead or unconscious.

Goblin 2:
Will save: (1d20-1)[4]

The goblin that tried to previously attack Cipriano suddenly feels inexplicably tired - Mandriav's spell has taken hold. Thinking longingly of its dingy goblin burrow and warm hay, it is fast asleep within seconds, gargling a large saliva bubble.

*****

Combat over, Initiative ends.

Nobody in the party takes any damage.

There is one sleeping goblin, three unconscious goblins (one warchanter, one warrior, one already trussed up by Sirus), and one dead goblin. The cart is still on fire.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red watches the combat, her head canted to one side in curiosity. It's been a while since she's had the privilege of seeing Minkai style fighting, and the priest's big dog was pretty fierce too. Why had the last goblin with the stupid hat fallen asleep though? And... and... she glances at Setsuna and immediately blushes as red as her hair.

Oh.

Sheathing her kukri, Red drops to one knee, scrambling through her backpack as fast as she can, reaching for the neatly folded monk tunic right at the bottom. Drawing it out, she approaches Setsuna from behind, doing her best to avert her eyes. It's not that she doesn't like the view... it's just... important. To see some things only at the right time. Burning town square time definitely wasn't the right time.

Red gently places the tunic at Setsuna's feet, using her free hand to shield her gaze. "... Miss Setsuna. You should... put something on." She says quietly, hoping that the men at least have the respect to not look either.

Red then moves over to the burning cart and grabs hold of the axle, which hasn't quite caught fire yet, ignoring the blistering pain in her hands from the smouldering wood. "Rico! Need help here!"

Strength check to move cart:
(1d20+3)[13]

[Miraqariftsky]

Apparently, her improvised squad is too efficient as they take action and quell the immediate hostiles even before she could get there. Rico grimaces, flexing her wounded arm, wondering if that's to blame or the dozen or so beers she'd put away.

And then she sees what she'd initially dismissed as combat damage, only to confirm with a slack-jawed unblinking stare. The open mouth slowly closes back into a scowl as another face and another more melodious voice seem to replace Setsuna's... another fight, another drink, another night, another grief another joy...

...and then the brief vision of treacherous beauty vanishes like smoke in the wind, leaving only the real, the flesh and the blood.

She masks her momentary sigh in a fierce snort as teeth grind as she deliberately dashes towards the demon-girl, already preparing to whip out her coat...

...only for Red to beat her to the punch, or rather, coat-share. Rico stands, assesses the situation, merely squinting at the blaze even as its waves of heat steam off her sweat, blister her skin and scorch some of her charcoal hair. She thrusts her short-sabre through her broad belt, tosses her greatcoat at Setsuna, spits into her hands, then takes the side of the axle opposite Red.

Rico yells over the roar of the blaze, "Hold yer fire, Red! TOGETHER! Heave on THREE! Run on FOUR! Ready? One! Two! THREE! HRRRRGGH! FOUR! Geddouttathere, Red!"

Fitting deed to word even as she shouts, Rico heaves the cart onto its side, spilling its burning contents across the plaza away from the buildings. Knowing that any moment a wind could whip the burning straw and wood into the town's structures, though her hands feel like they've been grilled, she ignores the pain and dashes for the nearest water, through teary eyes searching for any vessel large enough...

...there! Quickly making sure that it has neither liquor nor oil, she wraps her mighty arms around a barrel of rain-and-springwater for the festival's drinking! She heaves it up, bunches up her legs and throws the water over the burning bales, putting out the threat.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna glances around the battlefield, confirming that all the goblins have been incapacitated or killed. Well that takes care of this group, but that's only seven of them so far, how many would they send to assault a town of this size?

She wipes the droplets of blood off her katana and sheathes the blade as Red approaches and puts a tunic down at her feet. At first she furrows her brow and tilts her head inquisitively as she looks down. Just as she's about to open her mouth to ask what the red-headed human means she notices her missing sarashi, "Oh hells! I...I..." her faces mirrors Red's blush as she quickly tries to swipe the nearest serving tray to use as a make-shift shield to cover herself. Perception check to find something [roll0]
Reflex save to grab it out of a fire without getting burned if it happens to be on the flaming cart. [roll1]
If there's nothing to use, she covers herself with her right arm.

I didn't even stop to think, I'm in the middle of a village not out in the wilderness, oh gods, why did I charge in like that?! Glancing around, hells, I can't just abandon these people to hide.

She glances toward Red, and then Rico whose greatcoat unceremoniously lands at her feet, unable to look neither them nor anyone else nearby in the eye as she attempts to cover herself. Over the crackling of the flames and the dull roar of the crowd she calls out just loud enough to be heard by the two of them,"I truly appreciate your kindness Red-san, Rico-san, but I am afraid I can not accept it. If I try to put either of them on they will simply disintegrate," she finishes sullenly.

Having said that, she focuses her efforts on assisting in smothering the flames, doing her best to remain as decent as possible, Maybe the fire and smoke is too thick and no one else noticed, that wouldn't be too much to ask, would it? but backs off as Rico upends the cart and swiftly douses the flames. Not having a better idea, she proceeds to use the cart itself as a cover to duck behind as she looks around for a better hiding place or other goblinoid threats.
Perception to find dangers of a goblin origin or hiding spots: [roll2]

[Miraqariftsky]

Having finally seen to the flames, Rico finally gives in and lets go of her dignity, hissing and cursing and hopping from foot to foot, clutching at her smoking, sizzling hands. She dashes for the nearest intact tables, grabs a couple of pitchers and plunges her hands in, sagging and sighing with relief.

Her hands now bound in strips of tightly-bound brandy-and-bloodsoaked torn tablecloth, Rico returns to the group, blowing at her hands furiously and breathing hard. "HAAAAF-HAAAAF-huff-huff-huff... Asmodeus' arse, frak the lot of it, druther be stabbed than burn---"

Suddenly, she notices that her greatcoat and Red's tunic lie at Setsuna's feet, untouched. Her ears finally register the tail end of the demon-girl's words.

Having seen worse while growing up on the high seas, Rico merely grunts as she stoops to retrieve the two articles of charity, tossing the tunic at Red, helping herself to a stare travelling up Setsuna's body while straightening back up. By the time the greatcoat is back on her shoulders and Rico's gaze finds the demon-girl's eyes, there is nothing but a professional's scowl on her face.

A warrior's a warrior, a soldier's a soldier, competency's competence and beggars can't be choosers.

The scarred halforc nods and says "Sure ye wouldn't take th' coat even as armour? WELL. Yer no Linnorm berserker nor a Qadiran blade-dancer, but so long as ye do yer job of kickin' arse and savin' lives, yer good by my books. And Red's, too. We talk once the battle's done and it ain't done yet or my father's the Emperor."

Rico whirls and transfixes Cipriano with her golden gaze and growls, "Father Fox. Eyes only since nobody can 'elp it." The growl gives way to a hiss of pain and some audibly grinding teeth. "Wouldn't turn down one of the Holy Flagon's blessin's though. HEH-heh, is this when I start owing you, Father Fox?"

Daheck? No longer Father Frakker... HUH. Huh. huh... eh... Asmodeus' arse, my hands, damnit!

[North_Ranger]

"Why, good mistress, you wound me", Cipriano laughed as he sheathed his sword. He then walked over to one of the still-standing tables and grabbed an abandoned meat pie. "Just because I appreciate the beauty of the female body, doesn't mean I'd go and stare at every pair of breasts that appeared in my vicinity. Now if the good miss wanted me to take an eye-full", he added, winking to Setsuna. "Well... that's different."

Walking over to the summoned hound, Cipriano ran his hand through its thick fur, making the lesser cayhound's tail wag even more furiously. Giving the hound the meatpie, the young cleric kept repeating the same phrase in Celestial, probably meaning something like "good boy". Once the hound had finished gobbling up the pie, the beast and the cleric seemed to look at each other, and the hound's frame began to lose colour and grow transparent as Cipriano dismissed the summoning. At the last second before the hound's body returned to the celestial realms, the graceful hunting hound lifted its head and let out a long, victorious howl that lingered in the air even after it had departed the Material Plane.

"As for you owing me... I'll see if I can't get those burns of your fixed. But I must first see if there's anyone still in trouble or hurt."

Perception check: [roll0]

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus
HP 9, Blessed

As Sirus was assessing the situation, ready to leap at the head goblin, his happenstance companions took care of things efficiently. Sirus, rather impressed, stopped short and tries to discern other possible threats.

Take 10 Perception, for 19

[North_Ranger]

Okay, once more with the Perception check... [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Despite having been doused, the heat from the sopping fuel cart is immense and the air is thick with steam. Those of you who ventured close to the fire find that your clothing and hair has been lightly singed - the smell of your own burnt hair is not much of an improvement over the choking scent of charred hay and sizzling wood.

On the armoury roof, a lone goblin stops short at the sight of all of you. Gnashing its fangs, it leaps from the roof with its dogslicer aloft, shrieking a war-cry. However, the stupid little beast miscalculates and ends up missing you all entirely, landing on the ground with a loud crack, its neck at an unnatural angle. Anyone who goes to inspect the body will find that it is quite dead.


Setsuna's Perception check:
For Setsuna: Short of going into any of the buildings, there isn't any properly sheltered place for you to hide in or behind. There are other wagons and carts scattered around the square, but given the number of people still running everywhere, they wouldn't give you much covering.

You do spy a long Varisian style silken scarf on the ground, probably left behind by one of the dancers from earlier on in the day. You can use it as a make-shift covering if you tuck the ends in carefully... for now.


Everybody else - Perception DC 10:
There are still a few terrified screams coming from elsewhere in the town, but they are faint and far away, mingled with the deeper and harsher shouts of the Sandpoint Watch as they rally against the invaders. You do note, however, the distinct haunting melody of what you recognise to be samisen music rising above the goblin warchanters' squeaky chorus - Ameiko Kaijitsu must be working her brand of magic.

Nobody else in the square seems to be in immediate danger, except for the few small fires that have broken out, which are quickly being attended to by bucket brigades. Over by the podium, you spot Father Zantus casting healing magic on someone's shoulder. What goblins you can see appear to be in disarray - fleeing from the Watch or trampled underfoot. One of them flings it torch at a guard-woman, only to hit its own comrade and set it on fire instead. The goblin attack seems to be almost quelled, or has it?


*****

Red
HP 20/20 - 5 nonlethal damage

After tucking her tunic back into her bag as best she can with the tips of her fingers, Red squints down ruefully at her blistered, throbbing hands - well, that was stupid, grabbing hold of the axle like that. At least Rico had thought to spit on her hands before touching the wood.

This is nothing. You've had worse. This is-

Red shakes her head sharply, her eyes narrowed to slits, giving a low hiss of pain that has nothing to do with her weeping hands. No, she didn't want to go there. She was Red now, not Sera. She was stronger now. That memory belonged to another girl, another time.

Catching the note in Rico's voice when her name is mentioned, Red jerks her head up, automatically raising a hand to shield her eyes in case Setsuna is still... exposed.

"... Miss Setsuna?" she says uncertainly. "I do not wish to... show disrespect. If you must... wear nothing... I need your permission. To look."

[North_Ranger]

"Well", Cipriano started when the screaming goblin's glorious charge had ended in a rather inglorious thud. Or a crack, rather. "No matter what the enemy, you have to admit that one had balls to spare."

"As for... Miss Setsuna, was it? I think I have a blanket or two on my --- oh my god, Eunice!" the young cleric suddenly yelled out, realizing he had forgotten all about his trusty pack beast. "Wait here, I have to go check on my ass!"

With no further explanation, Cipriano ran to where had left Eunice. Next to the watering troughs...

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna continues to blush while trying to keep herself covered as best she can, finding a particularly burnt part of the card extraordinarily fascinating as Rico examines her and cleric of the Drunken God winks in her direction. Noticing the scarf, I never considered a long scarf before, maybe the curse won't destroy it, at least not right away. In response to Rico's suggestion she answer's simply, "I accidentally destroyed a fine suit of chainmail once, I would not wish to risk the same fate on your coat, but I have an idea!"

Hearing Red's amusingly shy comment however was enough to distract her, Kawaii desu, after a second's hesitation she responds, "We are still in danger, I can not let you fight blind just to try and protect my own modesty...Thank you for the gesture, but not averting your eyes is not disrespectful. It was my own fault this happened anyway." Check on his ass? Eunice? Oh, perhaps Eunice is a donkey.

That sad, she spots the scarf again and does her best to get to it before the wind or the crowd send it away. Once in hand, she hastily tries to wrap it around to utilize at least the partial cover it provides.

Relevant roll: [roll0] + relevant modifier

As she makes the attempt to situate the scarf she notices the goblin ignite its own ally and can't help but to grin with grim satisfaction to see the creatures she hates so much suffer.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Apparently the worst has passed. This is what everyone will say. Sirus disagrees. The real problems will arise in the next days. When the head count will be made and damage assessed.

And he still hasn't found why he was summoned here.

Sirus approaches the rest, in his silent way. He goes to the half orcess.

"Mrs. The worst. Is not over. We must meet with. The Sheriff of this town. He must know. What we can do. As soon as possible. Release our. Captives. To him.
And we must. Rally. And make a sweep. Of the town. Lots of people. Will need help.
And the evidence. Of how the goblins. Appeared. Will be gradually lost.

We must act. While there is still. Time."

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Blessed, Raging
HP 15/22 AC 15/19

"Right, right, right" Rico grunts in response to Setsuna's concerns as she kicks at the remains of her smoking table. Judging it to still be solid, she takes it up once again, letting the table's thick shaft rest easy in the crook of her arm.

One bloodsmeared hand wetly slaps against her forehead and she grates irately at yer shorter comrade, "Ye gods. Right. Red? Without the fancy words, wot she means is that YES, ye DO 'ave 'er permission..."

"...presently irrelevant, because---" and then at this point, she interrupts herself just as Setsuna grins at the goblins' unfriendly fire incident.

"AHOY THE WATCH!" she yells at the trooper[s?] in the distance while already jogging towards her, butting low with her table-shield at the goblin who'd set his mate on fire. "Dagmar, that you? Minor fire at armoury-by-cathedral. Padre Zantus with refugees. Sorry inexact, good estimate's a bit less than a dozen goblins, standard raiders in kit and tactics. One chanter. Several POWs..."

"...several competent charity-warriors." she finishes, jerking one thumb over her shoulder at the rest of the group. "Your sector, other sectors, situation report?"


Rage Power: Knockdown
[roll0] attack roll [EDIT: +2 from flanking with as-yet-nameless trooper]
[roll1] trip check / str check + 4 from size [EDIT: Crap die. Should be 14. 16 if Flank applies.]
If successful, firestarter gobbo takes 6 damage.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Setsuna's check for... putting on some clothing?:
(Surely, Setsuna knows how to dress herself with a scarf, given that she's worn the sarashi for ages? No roll required to put on the scarf.)

You successfully wraps the scarf around yourself and bind it tight without much issue, despite having to chase it halfway across the town square first. Unless you go and burn it off as well, it should hold.

Cipriano lost his ass, only to make an even bigger one out of himself...?:
You finds Eunice right where you left her, tethered to a post by the watering trough. Aside from a shallow cut on her fetlock, she is fine and quite capable of taking care of herself - as the severely trampled goblin corpse by her feet might indicate. Donkeys can't speak, but all the same, Eunice seems to be distinctly unimpressed with your ownership of her thus far and lets out a loud bray right in your ear the instant you are close enough.

[North_Ranger]

"Oh shut up", Cipriano answered to the donkey's braying. "I was busy keeping the town from burning", he said as he untied the donkey. "Still... good to see you're alright, old girl"

Pulling out an apple from the saddlebags and feeding it to Eunice, Cipriano looked around, seeing if there was any place he could take her to wait until the fighting died down.

Perception: [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Cipriano's Perception check:
You can't see anywhere suitable in the town square where Eunice can wait out the fighting - there's just too much mayhem and mess. Come to think of it, leaving Eunice alone again when there might still be goblins running about might not be such a good idea either...

*****

Rico's not flanking with the other watchman - so her attack misses.

The goblin squawks and dodges the oncoming table, scampering away in the opposite direction as fast as its tiny bow legs can carry it. It doesn't get far though - the watchman that Rico has just hailed sets upon the creature, skewering it through the chest with his longsword. Only after he has made sure the goblin is dead, does he look up and return Rico's call with a cheery hullo.

The watchman that Rico sees is not Dagmar, but Trooper Gareth, sooty from some other fire and his Watch leathers slick with goblin blood. Grinning broadly at her, he thumps her shoulder in a brotherly gesture of greeting.

"Rico! Damn little bastards. Came outta nowhere, eh?" He snorts in disgust as he scrubs his nose with a battle-grimed hand, still breathing heavily. "Just got in from High Street - some of 'em chanters - got one o' poor Das' mastiffs, but I think we picked 'em all up. Old Hemlock and the rest o' us... busy handling the couple of 'em that slipped by to Main Street. Was just headin' there to help mop up meself."

"Think you and your group here can tidy up the square? I'm sure Hemlock won't mind if you do a lil' 'mergency deputing."

Gareth gives the others a quick glance, nodding in brief recognition at Sirus, who has wandered up to stand just behind Rico - Gareth was one of the townsfolk that Sirus beat on his way to winning the wallet-snatch game.

*****

Red

Despite both Rico and Setsuna's assurances, Red keeps her eyes stubbornly lowered as the young girl races by in hot pursuit of some errant piece of clothing being blown across the square, one hand awkwardly shielding her chest.

No matter, it would be best not to look if she could. Rathi had always been insistent on listening for what other people weren't saying out loud. If finding something to cover up was so important to Setsuna, then she probably really didn't like people looking at her like she was... there to be looked at. Like how Red sometimes felt when she was the only woman in a company full of male sellswords. Or how the tavern room sometimes went a little more quiet on the rare occasions that she did manage to take another woman up to bed.

That wasn't a nice feeling. Setsuna probably wouldn't think so either. So there. Red wouldn't look unless she absolutely had to. Take that, Rico.

When Red looks up, she sees not Setsuna, but the young Caydenite from earlier on, this time with a donkey in tow. Where had that one come from?

[Desril]

Setsuna
HP 16/16
AC 14? (-2 charging if fire goblin is alive)

Now at least partially covered, Setsuna returns her attention to the goblin assault, putting other concerns out of her mind.

After seeing Rico's and the watchman's tag-team effort to skewer the goblin with terrible aim Good, the citizens and guard are repelling the goblins, this should end soon, she glances around for the flaming goblin, intending to strike it dead before it can start a fire and burn something or someone important. If she sees that it's already down then she moves to stand on a table or the upended cart to get a higher vantage point to spot trouble.

Perception: [roll0] to see if the flamer is dead.
If it is: Perception: [roll1]+modifier for high ground to look for other nastiness.

If it isn't: Atk:[roll2](+1 Bless, +1 AP, +2 Charging)
Dmg:[roll3]

If no goblin threats are visible, Setsuna moves to assist Rico.

[North_Ranger]

Deciding against leaving Eunice alone, Cipriano joined his comrades-in-arms with the donkey in tow. In one hand he held the animal's reins, in the other he held his sword. Just in case there were still a few stragglers out and about, looking for a fight.

"Is it always this exciting in Sandpoint?" he asked the guardsman with a small smile as he tied Eunice to an available post. "Also, if there's any wounded who require treatment, send them this way. I'll do what I can", he added as he opened one of the saddlebags and produced a small, reinforced wooden crate. Placing the crate down, he popped the lid, showing a veritable cornucopia of various ointments, preserved herbs, bronze utensils and rolls of bandages. Picking up a small vial, he whistled.

"Hey Red", he called out before tossing the short woman the vial. "Put that on your hands. It'll ease the swelling."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus nods at the guardsman. What he said echoed his suggestion, exactly. He looks pointedly at the half-orc giantess.

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv steps out into the square, his eyes drifting over the adventurers, "Well, you are certainly very.. impressive. Strange that goblins would attack like this. We aren't that big of a town, but we're big enough to make an attack unlikely to succeed."
He sighs wearily, shrugs, and says, "Oh, well, we can worry about that later, I guess. But, I have not introduced myself. I am Mandraiv Kaijitsu, enchanter and apprentice to Master Transmuter Rendark Ironballs."

[Miraqariftsky]

"Yeah. You." Rico grunts as Mandraiv comes up
Just as Gareth in greeting, her shoulder does whup
"Orders received, comrade." she grates with a salute
And with a "Wudja mind 'elpin' again?" about the Fox' cart does root
Finds some good coils of rope and sets about
Binding those captives they did clout
Together into a neat, hogtied bunch
Done, thumps the shoulders with a crunch
Of Cipriano and Sirus and says, "Good job, y'all. We've our orders here
The Watch shall take care of the rest."
In passing takes off her pennant gas-mask
And passes the thing to Red then does task,
Gruff but concerned, "Aye, wot de padre said." Frowning,
She says, "'Ere. 'S a bit o' wrapping."
And then she takes some flagon
Uncaring of whether't has water or brew-of-dragon
Splashes over the captive lot, then kneels beside
Grinning ear to ear, naked blade her fist does ride
Hissing and growling in the Goblin tongue,
Menacing those scum, those raider-dung

"Huul ghuugec, daal'duulkaan duun Tac'huuc. Duun'kaan o duugec dhuur? Daagaan't daan kaan or or agec?"

((Translation:
Good morning, welcome to Sandpoint. Who're you working for? Where's the rest of your army?))

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Mildly surprised, Red nevertheless looks up at the priest with a faint smile when he tosses the vial at her. "...Thank you, Mister Fox. Cayden bless you."

With the use of her teeth and some careful fiddling, she manages to recruit what's left of Rico's scarlet blouse towards bind up her hands, using Cipriano's salve as sparingly as she can. It's not very handy to hold her kukris like this, but she'll have to manage for now.

Upon seeing Mandraiv, she bows slightly in acknowledgement - she's seen him before, of course, once or twice, on her recent trips to the Rusty Dragon.

*****

GM post

Setsuna's Perception check:
You don't spot any goblins left in the area that pose a threat from the table that you are standing on. Sure, there are one or two still darting about, clutching loaves of bread and various sweetmeats, but there are also members of the Watch in hot pursuit.

Most of the goblin captives are still befuddled from being variously rapped on the head, sleep charmed, trussed up, and having human beverage tossed in their faces. They simply blink blearily up at Rico, although the warchanter, ice crystals still coating one cheek, growls incoherently and makes a spirited attempt to bite the half-orc's hand.

The town square seems to have calmed down somewhat, with the arrival of Sandpoint's efficient Watch. Most of the townsfolk have fled the scene by now, leaving the square littered with dead goblins and unfortunately, one or two crumpled human bodies. Over to the south-west side of town, in the direction that Trooper Gareth has gone in, however, those who listen can still hear the clash of steel against steel and the faint cries of goblin warchanters.

Suddenly, a loud scream for help slices through the air, accompanied by a litany of frantic barking. It seems to be coming from the north side of the square, in the direction of Sandpoint's north gate.

*****

Red

Red jerks her head up at the scream, her eyes wide and heart dropping like a stone in her chest.

Oh Gods. There's more? And the Watch just left...

Without finishing the knot on her hand bindings, Red scrambles to her feet and flings the vial back at Cipriano, not bothering to see if he actually catches it. She sprints as fast as she can in the direction of the scream, drawing both of her kukris as she goes, the loose bandages on her hands fluttering wildly.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus was about to comment that the orders were far from clear and that there may be more goblins around. That coordination was needed and that perhaps the rest of the guard needed help.

But another scream tore the air. Sirus' expressionless face somehow conveyed his 'I knew it' thought.

"This. Is not over. We must secure. The perimeter."

If someone from the Watch is near

"Please. Watch the prisoners."

With that, Sirus sprints after Red. If they did not organize themselves, this would go on all night.

Perception take ten for 19.
Initiative [roll0]

[Desril]

Setsuna
I guess this is the end of my role here, the guard can handle the mop up. That thought in mind, she hops down off the table and starts to move toward the goblin captives as the scream comes from the north. Or I guess maybe there's more yet to come.

Without taking the time to think, she immediately beings sprinting toward the source of the scream and barking, drawing her katana as she does, the tails of the scarf billowing out behind her. Noticing Red and the monk at her side she glances back to see if the assembled group all had the same thought, but is too focused on the task at hand to think of more than a couple of words of praise for their bravery.


Perception check to find the source of the scream/barking if one is needed: [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Raging, Blessed,
HP 15/22 AC 13/19

The feral grin widens even further
Adoptive zeal displacing adoptive discipline
A flurry of quick fists makes the captives sorry
For waking up as Rico secures them to the wagon-wheel
With yet more rope ere sprinting off after the others, vengeance to deal...


Perception? [roll0]
Initiative? [roll1]
Stupid Charging Leaping Body Slamming Attaaaaaack!
---Target: The closest [or most threatening] gobbo around by the time she gets there.
---Acrobatics [roll2]
---Attack Roll [roll3]
---Str check for Rage Power: Knockdown [roll4]
---Damage 6 + [Whatever the chief deems appropriate to represent almost three hundred pounds of fighting orcblood plus equipment plus momentum.]


...leaps with a roar and a jump, table-shield leading
The charge upon the first serious hostile to come into view
But she misses far and misses hard and lands hard
The much-abused table finally cracking, smashing---
---into a hundred splinters blew!

[Mithric Gunn]

A worried look crosses Mandraiv's face, and he runs toward the north gate.
After a quick glance it the others, he shouts, "Here, Rico. Lets see how the goblins like you now!" As he stops briefly to mutter a swift chant.
Enlarge Person on Rico. "And Rico. Smash."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Show-off", Cipriano grumbled at Mandraiv as he made sure Eunice was calm at the watering troughs. The sound of howling made him loosen the donkey's reins around the post, enough that Eunice could pull free if threatened. For the same reason he removed the heavy saddlebags, placing them on the ground. "Don't waste your spells until you see the fight coming at you", the young cleric reprimanded the newly-arrived spellcaster as he made his way towards the end of the square.

"Rico, right? When the enemy appears, stick close to me before you charge. I prepared a spell of protection for today, in case there would be some serious brawling later today. But I think you would benefit more from such a spell."

And Perception check: [roll0] To see if there's any incoming, or if there's any way they can make any manner of barricade in a hurry at the end of the street...

EDIT: And it looks like Cipriano just lost sight of his feet :smalltongue:

[Miraqariftsky]

Asmodeus' arse, more casters--- YYAAAAGH!

"HWOAAAHHH! What the frak?!" Rico suddenly struggles to find her balance as all her flesh and all her iron and everything else in between expand to an ogre's proportions. For a breathless moment, she windmills, then grabs hold of balconies on opposite sides of the street, steadying herself.

Quickly adapting to the new situation, she sheathes her short-sabre and reaches for the greatsword whose sheathing across her back she'd adjusted not too long ago. The white cord of the peace-bond quickly falls off, the sword, well-honed and well-oiled, emerges with hardly a hiss.

Right hand closer to the guard, left closer to the pommel carved into a stylized dragon's head. Ten feet of steel gleam in the crimson twilight like a tongue of flame, resting ready on Rico's right shoulder. The leading edge is wavy while the false edge seems thicker and heavier. Towards the end, the tip is forked--- one point stabbing straight ahead, the other curving backwards like a spur or hook. To those who might recognize it, engraved simplistic curved characters of Minatan script run down the flat.

Annnnnd yes, a bit of patriotic tribute here. The Kampilan is a Filipino, more specifically, a Moro sword. The one above is admittedly combined with a Kris and enlarged from its standard three-foot length.

For a moment, on seeing a reflection of herself in a storefront's windows and looking down, Rico growls to herself while tensing her body to lunge at the nearest threat once something comes 'round the bend or pops out of any shadow.

Chainshirt and leather greatcoat? Suuuuure. A civilian-grade ankle-length skirt? Slippers instead of standard combat boots? GAH! Iiiiiiiiiiiiiidiot! I don't do, I can't do pr... HRRRRHHMM. I keeeeel things horribly, sometimes even keelHAUL 'em, R... huh. Aggggh, Desna damn me, why'm I even thinking of... That dwarf's whelp might have a point with this spell, though. Looks good enough to hold a street almost as good as a line of spearmen would.

There. FOCUS, you incompetent wretch, FOCUS!

Maestro? Kindly shut the frak up. I was drinking to forget your bad and remember your good, did you know that? So fer once, SIR, shut the frak up, Maestro.

Her voice booms down from above, "Yeah, thanks, Fox. And you, mage-dwarfsson."

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico is currently under the effects of the 'Enlarge Person' spell.

DC 12 Perception:
You recognise that the barking comes from around the area right by the North gate, where the tavern known as the White Deer is. Those who do not succeed in making the DC start down a wrong turning before realising their mistake and hurrying to catch up with the others.


Led by Sirus and Rico, you all push past townsfolk fleeing in the opposite direction and head northward out of the square. Despite the overpowering odour of smoke that currently hangs over Sandpoint, as you move closer to the edge of the town where the sea cliffs are, you can still faintly pick out the scent of sea spray. The cries for help - distinctly male - and the frenzied barking seem to be coming from the direction of the White Deer tavern - so named for the pair of iconic life-sized deer carved out of white birch above the doorway - and that is where you all go towards.

A pained yelp greets your ears as you rush around the east side of the White Deer, just in time to behold a purple-skinned goblin - larger than the others you have seen so far - drive the jagged point of its horsechopper through the ribs of a retriever hunting dog, sending up a jet of warm blood that splatters across the goblin's face. Upon seeing the fatal wound, a nearby troop of goblin warriors cowering under a wagon sends up a wild whoop and immediately emerge from hiding, shaking with excitement and chanting a fragment of the same hideous song you heard earlier on.

"STAB THE DOG! STAB THE DOG! STAB THE DOG!"

The goblins' freakish cries almost drown out the agonized "Siegfried! No!" that comes from the direction of the White Deer's rain barrel. Those who turn to look behold a bloodied young man, his fine clothes streaked with dirt and his hair shaken loose from his nobleman's braid, trying to fend off with only his bare hands what looks for all the world like an enormous flayed rat. This rat-thing, whatever it is, has cornered the young man behind the rain barrel and snaps at any part of him that comes close enough. From what you can see, it has already torn his hands to ribbons as he tries to push it aside so he can get to his dog.

DC 10 Knowledge (Nature):
You recognise that this foul-smelling creature is a goblin dog and not an enormous flayed rat, despite its protruding teeth and hairless tail. Its skin is putrid with some mangy disease that has its fur falling out in large chunks. Goblins and their kin often use these creatures as guards and mounts.

The purple goblin is evidently a bit of a leader among its own kind, if the quality of its leathers are anything to go by. Turning deliberately towards you, it adjusts the plumed lizard skull on its head and gives you a lazy smile that shows far too much rotting teeth. "'ello, longshanks.," it purrs in passable Common, smearing the dog's blood across its face like war paint.

At a shout, the rat-thing ceases worrying at the man and returns to its master. Leaping astride its mount with its bloodied horsechopper in hand, the goblin commando rallies its comrades and the whole band immediately sets upon you.

*****

Initiative rolls:
Party Rolls:
Sirus: using player's roll of 23
Cipriano: (1d20+2)[6]
Setsuna: (1d20+4)[16]
Red: (1d20+5)[10]
Rico: using player's roll of 5
Mandraiv: (1d20+6)[10]

Goblin Rolls:
Gob1: (1d20+6)[22]
Gob2: (1d20+6)[9]
Gob3: (1d20+6)[9]
Commando: (1d20+3)[13]
Goblin Dog: (1d20+2)[15]

Initiative Order:
> 23 - Sirus
22 - Goblin 1
16 - Setsuna
15 - Goblin Dog
13 - Goblin Commando
10 - Red
10 - Mandraiv
9 - Goblin 2
9 - Goblin 3
6 - Cipriano
5 - Rico

It is now Sirus' turn.

*****

Battle Map:
http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/4485/goblinbattle3.jpg

[Desril]

Setsuna (Blessed (16?), Arcane Pool +1(6?)) (Unsure how many rounds have passed since last combat, estimating 2)
HP: 16/16
AC: 14 (-2 Charging)


K:N check [roll0]
Also; knowledge nature on the goblins themselves, do I know about their pyromania and logophobia? [roll1]

Seeing the injured man she glares at the goblin and its mount, a short plea to whatever gods happen to listening passes through her mind, There's been enough tragedy today, don't let another be killed by these beasts.

That thought is quickly replaced by a moment's planning. That has to be their leader, Setsuna comments internally, I guess we should capture that one alive too...I'm spent though, it'll be up to the others, I just need to clear the way.

With a wordless cry, she springs forward to slay the foot soldiers, trying to look as threatening as possible to them, just a few seconds, if I can buy the others a few seconds they can kill or capture the leader and this fodder should surrender.


Charging to F5 to hit Goblin 1 and trying to intimidate Goblins 1 and 3 into targeting her next round.

Attack: [roll2](+1 Blessed, +1 Arcane Pool, +2 Charge)
Damage: [roll3]
Intimidate: [roll4] (yay size differences and the +4 bonus it confers)

Edit: I'm going to assume that a 28 is a hit on goblin mook 1...roll to confirm is in the dice rolls thread
Critical: (1d20+10)[22]
Crit.Dmg: (1d6)[5]

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv hangs back, waiting for the opportune moment, ready to rush forward and catch the mounted goblin and hopefully one or two of his lackeys in a spray of mesmerizing colors.

Pretty much as described. Try to catch the chief and 1-2 goblins in the spray, while not hitting freindlies. Color Spray: DC 16 Will.
http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/c/color-spray

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus
HP 14/14, Blessed

Sirus takes a look at the warband and the mounted goblin. His face, initially expressionless, slowly, like a glacier, splits in a hideous grin.

"Your paint. Your chopper. Your band. Your gods. Will not save you. From me.

Come here. I am waiting."

Sirus then moves like strolling into the two closest goblins and casually kicks the one while grabbing the face of the other and twisting it. He looks at the mounted goblin the whole time.

FoB to goblins 1 and 3. If the chief attacks, he will use Redirection as an immediate action . Trip maneuver and then sicken him (Ref 15 save). +2 if power attacking or charging to trip.

FoB attack 1 [roll0] dmg [roll1]
FoB attack 3 [roll2] dmg [roll3]
Redirection trip if it happens [roll4] (NOT A TYPO!)

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano, Blessed
HP 14/14
AC 18

Spells:
0: Stabilize, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Guidance
1: Bless, Summon Monster I, Shield of Faith, Protection from Evil

Channel Energy: IIIII

Cipriano cursed at the sight of goblin raiders and their canine companions. If only I had saved up that summoning spell, he scolded himself. The celestial hound would have loved the chance to rip the goblins and their mounts to shreds...

But then again, now they had a twelve-foot-tall half-orc with a massive sword at their side. Cipriano had to remind himself that despite Rico's new size, she probably had not gained the full vitality of one of the giantkind. Plus, a big target like her was easy to hit. Even for a bungling greenskin.

With that thought in mind, Cipriano moved a step back and removed a small parchment fragment from his component pouch. Whispering a prayer of protection, he pressed the parchment and the prayers inscribed on it against Rico's side. A transparent, blue-tinted ghost armor began to grow as the power of the spell turned the parchment slip into ash, until the giant half-orc looked like she was wearing a ghostly blue set of shoulder pauldrons, cuirass, bracers and grieves on top of her more mundane armor.

"Go get them, Rico", the young cleric grinned, hoping that the goblins might be dismayed by a raging giantess with ghostly armor.

Step to D8.
Cast Shield of Faith on Rico, good for 20 rounds. +2 deflection bonus to AC.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico, Blessed, Enlarged, Raging, Shielded by Faith, Charging
HP 14/22 AC 13/19

Damned drunken ponderousnessnessness! Damned enspelled sideffected pondershneshh!

"HRRHMM!" Rico snorts as she takes in the scene at a glance and lowers herself into a crouch, weapon in a low guard, pommel jutting past her rearward hip. Calling out of the side of her mouth, she says, "Red. Bugger that rider up, I'll put that bastard on the ground."

As if it were a lance, she sights down her sword's edge towards her target. Taking care not to step on any of her allies or on her damnably long hem, she quicksteps and then lunges, aiming to spit the wretched abomination that's a gross violation of the municipal health code...!


BAB, Raging, Bless, Charging, Power Attacking, Flanking [?]
[roll0]
[roll1]

AoO* on any hostile because of Enlargedness' increased reach
BAB, Raging, Bless, Charging, Power Attacking, Flanking [?]
[roll2]
[roll3]

*using flat or pommel for "nonlethal" on the gobbo commando if he's the one that provokes an AoO.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Sirus moves to E5 and uses FoB.

The two goblin warriors barely have time to react - their limp bodies drop lifelessly to the ground. At this, the eyes of the goblin commando glow a dangerous bright orange and he snarls incoherently at Sirus in Goblin.

Goblin 1 and 3 are dead.

*****

Setsuna's Knowledge (Nature) check on goblins:
You know from your own unfortunate experience that Goblins love fire and that they won't hesitate to set buildings on fire if they can find a source. You don't know anything about their logophobia.

GM alteration: changing Setsuna's attack and intimidation target to Goblin 2, moving to C4, since Goblin 1 and 3 are dead.

Upon seeing its comrades felled, the remaining goblin warrior begins trembling, quivering like a leaf in the wind. As Setsuna relentless springs forward, the goblin takes one look at her face and lets out a piteous whimper, flinging up its hands to shield its eyes. There is no mercy forthcoming, however - a flash of the katana in firelight, and the goblin's misshapen head goes flying clear off its tiny shoulders.

Goblin 2 is now dead, courtesy of critical hit.

*****

Goblin Commando and Goblin dog::

Mounted move to B4

Goblin Dog:
Attack: (1d20+2)[3]

Goblin Commando:
Attack: (1d20+4)[6]

The goblin's head goes flying and comes to a rolling halt at the feet of the goblin dog. Gnashing its teeth, the commando turns its attention to Setsuna, wheeling the goblin dog towards the young woman and brandishing its horsechopper.

"Demon bitch! You pay fo' that!"

Kicking the goblin dog viciously in the sides, the commando spurs its mount towards Setsuna and charges, the horsechopper raised and poised. The goblin dog, however, has other ideas - just before reaching Setsuna, distracted by the scent of so much fresh goblin blood, it visibly cringes and lunges away, much to the screaming frustration of its rider.

*****

Will saves:
Dog's will save: (1d20+1)[15]
Commando's will save: (1d20+2)[15]


Mandraiv moves to B5 and casts colour spray.

Shouting a brief warning to Setsuna to watch out, Mandraiv takes a few quick steps forward and casts his spell, his fingers already glowing with tangled arcane light. As his lips move, a massive cone of prismatic light spills forth from his palms, blasting the goblin commando and his mount in the face with a dizzying wall of colours.

By the time the lights fade, the disgusting pair lie unconscious on the dirt floor.

*****

Combat over, Initiative ends.

Nobody in the party takes any damage.

There are three dead goblin warriors. The commando and his mount have been knocked unconscious for 2 rounds, and will remain blinded and stunned upon waking up.

*****

Once the last of the goblins falls, the young man behind the rain barrel crawls out from his hiding place, stumbling as he runs over to the stiffening body of his dog.

"Siegfried! Oh gods." The young man kneels and passes his hands gingerly over the wound in the dog's side, his eyes filling with tears as he realises his beloved pet is no more.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Once more, the goblins were routed. His newfound companions seem to work well together. But again, goblins are ... goblins. A glance tells him that the young man is alright. Consolation would be better left to others. He was not good at it.

With these thoughts, Sirus disarms the sleeping goblin and ties him up, with the help of anyone nearby.

He then mercilessly kills the disgusting dog. Again with the help of anyone nearby. He addresses the rest of the group.

"We cannot. Continue. Running around. Without a plan. Let us. Coordinate.

Find a guard. To relinquish the prisoners. Form a group. Secure the nearby roads. Help the militia."

He will then take the goblin prisoner alongside the others.

[Desril]

Setsuna
Seeing the beast and its mount drop unconscious she resists the urge to execute them both on the spot, breathes out a sigh, and calls to her comrades, "Be careful not to touch that goblin dog, they are often filthy with diseases and cause a terrible rash." Upon Sirus dispatching it, she follows up with, "I would suggest burning its body."

That said, she sheathes her katana and moves to check on the injured human, "I know you have suffered a loss, but there will be time to mourn later. There may yet be more of these creatures around and you are injured, let us take you to a safer place."

I hope he doesn't resist, I don't have the skill to treat this and if there's another scream I would hate to abandon him here.

Diplomacy: [roll0] (+1 if Alluring applies)

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Patience... You have to learn patience, Cipriano could almost hear his old mentor at the temple telling him. The battle was over before Rico could charge into the fray, and there was no need for the blessing of protection he had bestowed upon her.

But there was a time and place for learning from screw-ups, and "in the middle of a goblin attack" fit in neither category.

"Sirus is right, we need to stop running around like headless chickens. Rico, think you can help Red get on top of that wall or on the rooftop, so she can see if there's more enemies approaching? I can still offer some curative spells, but I spent most of my remaining power on that protection spell."

With that, the young cleric walked over to Setsuna and the weeping man. "The young lady is right. It's not safe here. You can best honor your companion by honoring his sacrifice. He probably kept the goblins' attention off of you long enough to spare your life. Don't dishonor that."

Aid another on Setsuna's Diplomacy check: [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

The young man heaves a shuddering sigh, shaking his head sadly as he raises his head to look at Setsuna and Cipriano, heedless of the tears streaking his cheeks. He seems momentarily taken aback by the fiendish colour of Setsuna's eyes, but recovers admirably. "Y-yes... I suppose you're both right. Poor fellow... I'll miss him though. Had hell of a run with him..." Sniffing loudly, he uses the corner of his ruined doublet to dab at his eyes, getting slowly to his feet.

He turns his head towards Sirus as the latter addresses the rest of you, an odd watery smile lighting up his handsome features. No sooner has Sirus finished speaking when the young man excitedly sets upon him, grabbing hold of the half-orc's arm with ardour, ignoring the stains that his bloody hands are leaving upon Sirus' arms.

"You, sir! Just now with the goblins... that was a magnificent display! Gods! I don't know how you did it - you just walked up to them and BAM!" He releases Sirus' arm and does a spirited but clumsy imitation of the wrenching motion that had snapped the goblin's neck. "I- I don't know what to say. Was so sure those wretches had me, but you took care of them so easily. Like that! With no weapons! And that horrible thing..." The young man grimaces and motions towards the reeking corpse of the goblin dog. "It scared the daylights out of me, chewed my hands up. I couldn't do a thing- but you just killed it so quickly... wow. I mean, just... Wow."

The young man looks up at Sirus, his eyes positively shining by now. "I know- I mean, you got to go help other people now. And I should probably, um- get these looked at." He waggles his bleeding hands sheepishly. "But at least tell me your name, warrior. And where you learnt those incredible skills."

*****

Red

As the goblin commando falls, Red looks up at Rico with some amusement, making a shrugging motion with one shoulder while resignedly sheathing her kukris. Quirking an eyebrow and making a face at her friend, she takes the opportunity to swiftly do up the ends of her make-shift bandage. So much for helping out. Miss Setsuna and the strange half-orc were a destructive force all by themselves. They could have probably taken out the whole lot without any back-up.

Red's Perception check to disarm goblin commando completely:
(1d20+6)[15]

She helps Sirus to tie up the commando, confiscating its horsechopper and the shortbow slung around its shoulder. After a moment's thought, Red also makes sure to pat the snoring goblin down for anything hidden on its being - it wouldn't do to have the creature wake up and attempt escape. A quick search of its pockets and clothing, however, turn up nothing more threatening than a scratched bottle of healing potion, the label brown and peeling, but still recognisable.

Red frowns at the clear liquid in the small bottle, wondering where on earth the goblin could have come by it when the young man pounces on Sirus. Slightly alarmed by his exuberance, she carefully backs away, slipping the potion into one of the many secret pockets on her person - the pockets a remnant from a time when she still earned her bread by swiping half-eaten loaves from tavern tables in Riddleport. Not that she'd stolen anything in a while since meeting Rico. It didn't do be a thief when your friend was a deputy; it'd be wrong to make Rico have to chose like that.

What a weird man, jumping on people. Touching them when he doesn't even know who they are. Maybe he's gone crazy after seeing his dog die.

Not wanting to hear the crazy man's babble, she wanders over to where the man's dead dog lies, nodding respectfully to Setsuna as she goes. Crouching next to it, she reaches out and gently strokes the long brown fur around its ears and neck. Poor dog. It just wanted to defend its master. Now it's dead.

"Tamē sārī rītē laḍyā. Bhagavāna sāthē jā'ō," she whispers softly in Varisian under her breath, cradling the dog's head and closing its eyes as best as she can. Go with the Gods.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico's charge abruptly ends right as her targets flop to the ground. She yawns in befuddlement, eyes unnaturally drooping...

...she catches herself before she too, flops, by grounding her blade, growling then slapping herself across the face, hard. Frowning deeply, she juts her chin at the unarmed halforc and grates, "You, pugilist. Demon-girl's right. Those beasts carry disease."

Standing clear and steady, she slices the thing's throat with her blade's tip. "Better safe than sorry."

Picking up the goblin's halberd, she snaps the haft with two ensorceled fingers, douses the lot with a tot from her hip-flask, then tosses the sloshing flask to the grieving youth. Rico crouches down to bring herself to his level so as not to be too intimidating and says, "Aye, wot dey said. Yer dog wuz deh better man. 'Ere, take this an' this. Drink up, get yer wits together. Arm up, turn yer grief inta anger."

Squinting at the people already moving, already going below her, Rico grumbles, "Holy asswankers, ye friggen git. Calm the frak down, will yer?"

She then grunts in agreement with Cipriano and says, "'Sright, padre. Ye an' yon pugilist 'ave right 'edds on yer shoulders."

Rico crouches by the wall and braces both hands in a stirrup. "Red, wot 'e said. Recon."

The halforc then nods at Sirus and says, "Pugilist. Sorreh iffen I didn't catch't--- ye got a name? Planning, says ye, aye, agreed with ye on most counts..."

She then jogs back to where they left the other trussed-up captives and brings them back, plopping them painfully back down to the ground. "...sorreh, somtimes I can be 'ard of 'earin'. Now, wot were ye sayin' 'arlier?"

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus was finishing the task of securing the prisoners, and taking stock of their items

Perception take ten for 19

when the overexcited young man started thanking him. Sirus' face, usually totally devoid of emotion, shows bewildered surprise, as his left eyebrow rises. Nobody has expressed ...adoration for Sirus for ages. Noone has ever thanked him in the last ten years. His tasks at the Whisperers made sure of that. For a moment, Sirus is at loss.

He then disengages his hands with a very fast motion, gently but firmly.

"I am. Sirus Scarletti. You are. Welcome. But you should. Get back. Home. The danger. Is far from over."

With that, with what is for him an expression of bewilderment, he will wait for the report of the climbing experts. He could climb himself, but no need to duplicate effort.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico reviews Sirus' handiwork and
Taking yet more rope does bend
And make the whole lot fast unto a wagon's wheel
Like flies upon a spider's web, unmoving yet all-feeling
Secured all the more, nodding gratefully at Scarletti
She surveys the streets around and the windows
And roofs as well and every cranny where shadow flows


Following suit!
Not taking risk, this time!
Taaaaaaake TEN, Perception!
Plus Eight! Equals! Perception: Eighteen!


And swiftly soon enough
Returns to the wall
Her back against the rough
Upward does she call,
"Red? Wotsit look like up there?"
Ready to receive, whether fall
Or help a friend's knowing return
And listen to whatever she might've learn't

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

"Master Scarletti. Your skill with fisticuffs is amazing. Just amazing." The young man ignores Rico's proffered flask and continues to stare admiringly at Sirus. "Listen, I know you must be busy - lots of goblins to kill and all that. But listen-" He grabs hold of Sirus' hand again, almost desperate. "My name is Aldern, Aldern Foxglove. You saved my life. In fact, all of you did," he says, looking around gratefully at all of you. "I simply can't do nothing in return. I'm lodging at the Rusty Dragon, I'll be there for a few more days before I travel on. You'll do me the pleasure of looking for me there, won't you? The very least I can do is to thank my saviours properly when this is all over."

*****

Sirus and Red find the following items on the goblins:

1 potion of Cure Moderate Wounds - in Red's pocket
1 masterwork horsechopper - just broken in half by Rico
1 shortbow with 20 arrows
1 studded leather armour
3 dogslicers

*****

Red

When Rico calls for recon help, Red carefully eases the dog's head off her lap and stands up - almost as if the dog was only sleeping. Hurrying over, she steps into the stirrup formed by Rico's hands and allows herself to be pushed up to the top of the wall. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Red can't help but grin as the ground rapidly falls away and Rico lifts her up - she didn't get to see the world from this angle very often. Perhaps it would be fun to be tall.

Perception check:
Taking 10 for a total of 16.

Her hands scrabbling for purchase, Red hauls herself up and over the edge of the earthwork behind the Sandpoint palisade wall. She can just about see over the edge of the wooden posts and what she sees raises her spirits: outlined against the sunset are several tiny goblin silhouettes, running away from Sandpoint as fast as their little legs can carry them.

She can't help but notice as well, much to her dismay, the wide open studded doors just some distance away along the wall - the heavy oaken plank used to bar them lying on the ground nearby. That gate was supposed to have been shut for the festival. She should know - she was one of the last few to have walked through that gate just early this morning, having stopped to say hello to the watchman on duty. What was it doing open, practically welcoming any goblins out to cause trouble?

Hearing Rico's second call, Red returns to the edge of the earthwork and eases herself onto the half-orcess' hand. Only when she is back on the ground, does she volunteer what she saw from the top of the wall while dusting down Rico's hand.

"Goblins are running away... back to the woods. Retreating? I'm not sure. And Rico..." She pauses in her dusting and touches her friend's arm, her eyes narrowed with mingled fear and concern. "The north gate is... open. Nobody's there. Maybe that's how they... you know. Got in."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus only nods at the overeager young man and watches him go. That was unfamiliar territory to him.

His work done, Sirus puts everything in a bag and gives it to Rico. It is too heavy for him to carry and the half-orcess seems very unlikely to cheat anyone. Plus, there were more goblins to be searched, later.

At the mention of the new information, Sirus' eyes close into half lids.

'This means. Treachery. This is important. We must. Regroup. Now. Here. Secure the prisoners. Like Mrs Rico. Did. Disarm them.And go. Immediately. There. To see. For ourselves. All of us. Together.

On the way. We can. secure. More spaces. An open gate. Is an invitation. For disaster."

[Miraqariftsky]

Be careful, be careful, be careful...

"Careful, careful, eeeeaaaasssyyy doessit..." The massive halforc's face is set in an uneasy frown as she helps her friend back down. She does NOT want to accidentally squash the little redheaded rogue. Once Red's safely back down to solid earth, Rico gives a shuddering sigh that she quickly masks by moving her arm up over her mouth as if reaching over to scratch an itch on her opposite ear.

One corner of her scarred mouth twitches in a suppressed smile, one great thumb pats Red's hand as she dusts it off. "Hrhmm. 'Salright. 'Salright." Rico rumbles as she turns her face away, despite any blush being practically invisible off her skin's darkness. She turns back with her business-scowl back on and listens intently as Red delivers her report.

"MOTHER OF ASSWANKERING HELLCRAPS!" Rico swears virulently once Red finishes. "I"LL KEELHAUL THEM! INCOMPETENCE OR TREACHERY! WRETCHES! How dare they threaten their HOME like so! They better hope they died in glorious battle defending that gatehouse, by Asmodeus' arse!"

Her greatsword swings from one fist, the other hauls up to her shoulder the cart she'd commandeered for trussed-up prisoner transport. Grumbling, rumbling, growling, she merely jerks her head for the others to follow as her slippered footfalls thunder down the street, towards the north gate.

Almost as an afterthought, she adds, snarling, "Summa y'all. Please. Secure. His FRIGGEN highness. HRRRRGHMM. Or not! All y'all get the frak on, already."

[Desril]

Setsuna

I guess I should make sure this one isn't going anywhere. She rifles through her things, eventually emerging with a pair of manacles and looks to the group, "These are made for larger beings than it, they may not hold on it. Do any of you have something more suitable?"

I suppose I could use this scarf to bind his hands together, but I'm not going to mention that. Shaking that thought out of her head, she performs a cursory inspection to make sure the scarf is still functioning as intended and moves to keep pace with Rico as she heads to the gate.

"Rico-san, do you know of anyone who would wish to leave the town vulnerable like this? Or is it more likely a simple, tragic accident?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano

The sheer volume of the enlarged half-orc's cursing was enough to make Cipriano cringe. When she started running, the young man turned to his comrades.

"I best go with her, there might be wounded at the gate", he said. It was a fool's hope, but still... "Red, you know the way around here. You and the others secure the prisoners and try to get some guards to watch 'em. Join us at the gate when you can. There's more rope in my saddlebags, if you need any."

With that, the Magnimarian started running after Rico. Despite the steel of his armor, he looked to be running surprisingly deftly after the massive and definitely more powerful half-orc.

Not quick enough to catch her, though.

"Hold on! I'm coming as fast my legs can carry me! I'm a cleric, not a race horse!"

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Due to Mithric pointing out that the Enlarge Person spell should have ended a long time ago, I'm going to make GM alterations to some of the actions that have been declared:

Once Red steps off Rico's hand, Rico goes back to normal size. This is so Red doesn't get stuck on the wall.
Rico, having gone back to normal size, will NOT be dragging the prisoner wagon with her down to the gate.
Therefore, the prison cart is now where Red and Sirus and Mandraiv are - i.e. behind the White Deer. Not with Rico, Cipriano, and Setsuna.
The goblin commando is still with the prison cart. Since the OOC post confirmed that Sirus is carrying enough rope, I will assume that Sirus tied up ALL the goblins in post #87, including the commando. So there is no need for manacles or for Setsuna to strip off her kapenia.

*****

Rico and Setsuna and Cipriano:

The north gate is less than fifty metres away from the White Deer. As you all approach, you can see the battered forms of two unconscious town watchmen on the ground, still bleeding out on the cobblestones, their guard halberds broken and thrown some distance away.

Just before you all reach the watchmen, a tiny goblin darts out from a back alley, terrified out of its mind and its pockets soaked with steaming orange gravy. Upon seeing you three, it hisses angrily and brandishes its dogslicer, but wastes no time in dashing out the open gate as fast as it can, leaving a trail of gravy as it goes.

"Come back 'ere and fight, you rutting piece of horsedung!" The angry voice of a watch-lady echoes down the alley. "Come and raid my town, would ya?"


Sirus and Mandraiv and Red:

As you all watch the other three head down the alley, the goblin commando stirs and shakes off its lingering grogginess with a low rumbling growl. Still blinded by Mandraiv's spell, it snuffles at the air and bares its teeth once it catches your scents, straining against its bonds.

"Stinking longshanks," it snarls, spittle flying. Despite its mount being dead, the foul stench of the goblin dog's dander still lingers on the clothes of its rider. "You pay for t'is. Oh yesh."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Seeing the goblin she instinctively chases after it without waiting for Rico's answer to her question or to see if any of her new-found allies are following, but stops just after passing the open gate as she stares at the fleeing goblin, damn it to the Abyss, it's too far, no choice, she points her hand at it and begins to channel her innate magical talents to stop the goblin in its tracks before realizing that the creature is too far away and slowly relaxing before turning back to check on the guards.

A quick glance to see them bleeding out tells her all she needs as she looks to Cipriano, I don't think I ever caught his name, but Rico-san kept referring to him as... "You are...Father Fox, yes?" she glances sidelong at Rico for a moment, not entirely sure if that's what she'd heard him being called, "Can you heal these men?"

[Mithric Gunn]

"Ah, I see you have awakened. Good. I was hoping to have a little chat with you. I understand you goblins are not aware of our customs, and I'm sure torching and killing is just your way of introducing yourselves, but in our lands we tend to not take too kindly to such behavior."
Mandraiv squats down, getting closer to eye level with the goblin 'chanter.
"Now, of course its not your fault, I'm sure you were just misinformed of our customs. If you could just let me know who told you about us, I could enlighten them, let them know just what kind of people we are."
His hands weave a pattern as his voice becomes oddly hypnotic.
Casting Charm Person DC 17
"Now if you could tell us who sent you, and who helped you, I'm sure we could have this all cleared up in no time. We might even be able to get you shiny things to impress your freinds, and maybe some stuff to go boom."
If Charm Person worked, Diplomacy check to raise his disposition to Helpful(If he saved, I sincerely doubt diplomacy will do much):
[roll0]

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"So I've been called", Cipriano answered to the tiefling's question with a small smile as he walked closer to the wounded men. "You can also call me by my given name, Cipriano. Less formal that way."

"As to your question... I can try. I have no healing magic prepared, but I can pray for something else. To be a conduit of my god's healing hand. Miss Rico, please stand close to me, I see you too could use a touch."

With that, the auburn-haired man knelt next to the two unconscious men and closed his eyes. He breathed in deeply, his lamellar-covered chest rising, and then breathed out. When he opened his eyes, they glowed with the same electric blue shade that seemed to accompany his spellcasting. On Rico's and the guards' flesh, the divine power of the Accidental God surged, mending wound and bruise alike...

Channel energy: [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

Catching Setsuna's black gaze levelly, Rico silently mouths, Later. More afoot.

Still scowling even as her flesh mends, Rico lays a hand on Cipriano's shoulder and shakes him once, then lets go. "Anybody can have a name in a filebook. Everybody has parents who call 'em Horseradish or MaryaElsabethaWallachiaDiLorangia. BAH. But an earned name, an earned name, 'sdifferent."

She gives him one more pat and flares her nostrils as she says with the barest hint of a smile that soon dissolves back into her standard scowl, "But Cipriano. As yeh perfer. And thanks. Just Rico. Technically not on duty except as a cosserned and able citizen."

She then stabs her sword into the dirt, letting it stand there as she kneels beside the two stricken watchmen, easing them up to sitting positions, bringing out hip-flask and waterskin. As she does so, she spots the telltale flakes of mutant skin shed by the giant rats the goblins ride and the dents on the helms of her comrades.

One arm still supporting the still-dizzy dirty blonde Dagmar and the square-faced halfelf Voss, she slowly turns to the still-standing, still-fuming Hannah, "So... how're you feeling now?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"True, true... and I have to admit, I kinda like the name. Father Fox. Heck, it's a lot better than what I have been called otherwise. Some of the names that old man cast at me? I'd rather not repeat them, don't want to make Miss Setsuna blush", Cipriano answered with a smile and a chuckle as he came out of his trance. It was always a powerful experience, parting the walls that surrounded his very mind and soul, and letting the power of the Accidental God rush through his body. Powerful, though not unpleasant. Plus, afer a powerful rush like that, he often felt a deep sense of warmth, like he had just swallowed a mouthful of piping hot mulled wine.

"So you call me what you wish, Miss Setsuna. Just... not Chip. If you do that, I have to hurt you", the cleric kept joking as he helped Rico get the two men up on their feet. "Careful, careful there, my good man... You'd better take it easy for a day or two... and keep an eye on any sudden bleeding. You'll need a healer's touch then."

[Miraqariftsky]

"PFFT!" Rico snorts. "Frakker's a frig-lot mild, ain't it?"

The snort, the scowl and the humour continue, "Eh, mebbe ye should. Mebbe her blush can power a pan, boil some water for poultices, hmm?"

"Yeah, seriously, wot 'e said. Hannah, ye got the horn for the apothecaries? Hrrhmm. At least ye don't yet need the chirurgeons yet, nor the mortician. Ain't that right?" Standing and helping the two up as well, a wary glare ensuring Cipriano's hands don't stray with Dagmar's assistance, the halforc grates at the lot of them, "Well'n? Ambush? Distraction? Surprise? Extreme numbers? Or was there something else?"

Striding to the gate, she grunts as she heaves both of the iron-bound timber leaves closed, then locks the lot with the fallen heavy bar. Retrieving her sword from where she left it, she points at the trail of the goblins' riding-rats and says, "More o' them in here. Hope the Cap'n and the rest got 'em good. Otherwise, 'sgunna be a long damned hunt."

[Desril]

Setsuna shakes her head while grinning lightly at the well-intentioned teasing, I should hunt down the rest of the goblins, but the guard should be able to rout them now that they lost the element of surprise... Shoving the thought aside she settles on doing some teasing of her own.

"Given my current lack of dress, I am doubtful that you could make me blush more," Setsuna says with a light chuckle, trying to keep the actual embarrassment buried until more important matters are taken care of.

"If it is boiling water you need though, I can do that blush or no." She digs around in her kit, emerging with a cooking pot, waterskin, and flint and tender. Emptying the waterskin into the cookpot, she places it over the flint and tender and rings them in sand as she points toward them. Making a quick series of complex, arcane gestures, she ignites it. "It may not work right away, but it is the best I can do at present."

The fire started, she looks around for anything that can be used to keep it burning easily and listens for the guards' answer to Rico's inquires about the goblin force.

Using Spark to start the fire.

In case one is needed to find bits of dry wood or whatever: Perception check [roll0]
or keeping the fire from accidentally lighting up the town, Survival [roll1]

[Miraqariftsky]

Stray sparks catch a wall
Twilit wood now flaring red
Rico quashes with her palm


Aid Another! Take Ten! Survival Fifteen!

Also! Gaddem nat-one, gaddem haiku.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Heh, don't throw a challenge if you're not willing to go all the way", Cipriano laughed at the tiefling's jest. "I would love to see you blush. Better yet, I would love to see how far down that blush reaches...", he added whimsically, leaving the thought to float in the air.

[Miraqariftsky]

The sweetmeat that doesn't need unwrapping...
Rico quips silently
After Cipriano's not-quite-jest
But hisses loudly
Blowing and sucking
At her hands, smoking once again.

[Desril]

Not wanting to eat her own words so quickly, Setsuna does her best to pretend she didn't hear that and looks toward Rico, grimacing a little, "Oh, my apologies Rico-san, I never could keep a fire contained. Are you alright?" ...that might have ended badly were I on my own, it is nice to have comrades in arms, isn't it?

Uhh...bluff check to not blush? Or diplomacy to retain composure?
Bluff: [roll0]
Diplomacy: [roll1]
Whichever is more applicable

[Miraqariftsky]

Flicking her hand and looking impassively over the chunk of calloused flesh, Rico replies, "Relax. Don't let that frakker get to ye. Don't worry, I've had worse..."

She kicks some dirt onto the smouldering patch of wall. "Could be worse. At least yer no shadowspawn from beyond the Carpenter's Wall who'd gladly spread fire an' doom, eh?"

She scowls deeper still, snorts and spits in bitter humour, then snatches a blanket with only a few patches of windblown ash on it from a clothesline. She hands the lot to Setsuna and says, "Here. Cut and boil for bandages. Cipriano, got some herbs for poultices?"

Frowning abashedly at Hannah, almost as short as Red but with a midnight-black bob-cut instead of the latter's fiery crown, Rico asks, "Watch'll pay for damages after that requisition, right? Or do I owe hard labour again?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano chuckled as he observed Setsuna's reactions to his good-natured teasing.

Sense Motive check ;) [roll0]

She didn't seem to be willing to continue this discussion any further, so Cipriano chalked that up as "A for effort". She was a lovely-looking young lady, though. Maybe later, with some good Andoren honey wine...

The young rake was woken up from his reveries by Rico's question. "Not on me, no. I left my kit back at the main square. I can run and get it though... and let the others know we weren't ambushed by... I dunno, were-goblins?" he chuckled as he rose to his feet. "Anything else you need?"

[maggie_mcknife]

Sirus and Mandraiv and Red:

Goblin Commando's Will Save:
(1d20+2)[22] - resisted

The Charm spell seems to have no effect - the commando merely inhales deeply before twisting violently in his bonds and attempting to chomp Mandraiv's fingers.

"Go to 'ell!" It snaps. "Don't need yer shiny or boom-boom. We be goblins - we stab, we KILL."


Rico and Cipriano and Setsuna:

Rico and the two injured guards regain 6 HP from Cipriano's channel energy. But Rico takes 4 nonlethal damage again for slapping out the fire.

Dagmar looks blearily up at Rico, his eyes unfocused and glazed over. "Rrico...? 'Dat yoo?" He slurs. "Wha' you... doin' 'ere?" Voss doesn't seem much better and simply closes his eyes, finding the semblance of unconsciousness to be much more comfortable as he slumps over in Rico's arms. Neither of them seem to be in any condition to answer questions.

Watch-lady Hannah snorts and jabs the ground with the butt-end of her halberd, furious that the goblin has managed to make it out the town gate without being caught. "How do I feel? I'm pissed, that's what! Bloody vermin," she spits. "If I had me druthers, I'd string the whole bloody lot up with the rest at the Squash stables and burn their damn names all over their damn bodies til there's no more space left fer their mamas to see 'em by."

Her stance softens upon seeing her fellow guardsmen though, as she stoops to help Rico assist the wounded, giving a grunt of appreciation to Setsuna when she sees that the tiefling girl is doing her best to help. "Don't have me horn with me now. Th'boss and the rest of the boys managed to rout the attack, so Father Zantus' busy healing the wounded there. I was just chasing this last bugger here to finish him off. Damn pig was still gobbling down stuff from th'stalls when we got there."

"I dunno, girl. I gotta feeling lots of people gonna be claiming damages once things calm down a bit. Yer currently off dooty though, so maybe you won't have to pay nothing." Sighing, Hannah straightens up and adjusts her armour. "Dunno if it's safe to move 'em either. Y'all keep boiling that water. You, priest - keep 'em stable. If they die, I'll have yer guts for my fiddle strings. Rico, keep an eye. I'll go get the boss and a healer right off. Got anything else to report?"

[Mithric Gunn]

"Well, in a stubborn mood, I see. Lets try this again."
A plain steel ring on Mandraiv's finger flares suddenly, showing glowing arcane runes scribed along it.
Casting Charm Person again through my ring.(bonded object) Its my last spell use for the day, but the info's probably worth it, and ive still got my 8 stun touch attacks.
DC 17
Diplomacy after:
[roll0]
"I really would hate to have to hurt you, but it's very important I know who helped you."

[Miraqariftsky]

They just want food. Or so it seems. Who hasn't known the pain of hunger in their life? Why can't we just get along? What the--- They're GOBLINS, that's why! Murderous scum to the last.

Scowling in agreement, Rico nods and replies, "Preaching to the choir, ma'am. Aye, ma'am. Suppressed some raiders over by Ameiko's, the cathedral plaza and afront the White Stag. Several kills, one cavalry, one caster, several POWs for interrogation. Rough count puts 'em at a dozen. Ironballs' apprentice, bounty hunter Red and an outlander halforc pugilist contributed their skills in helping put the raiders down. Judging by these tracks an' leavings here--- and here--- we've probably got at least one or two more, possibly more goblin cavalry loose within Sandpoint's walls."

Rico then gives a cough and asks, "Ma'am? All due respect... how DID they bamboozle this 'ere north gatehouse?"


Let's try some Perception! And Sense Motive!
[roll0]
[roll1]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Sirus and Mandraiv and Red

Goblin Commando rolls:
Will save: (1d20+2)[15] - commando is now charmed
Mandraiv's Diplomacy check: passed, commando is now friendly towards Mithric
CHA check: (1d20-1)[10] - beats Mandraiv's roll of 7, commando refuses to give a straight answer

A stupid grin comes over the goblin's face as the runes on Mandraiv's ring fade and it begins giggling in an incongruously high-pitched voice. At his question, the commando looks coyly up at him and cackles in the same high-pitched voice. "Good 'un, boss. But I kint tell yer, see? Secret mission. Ask me 'omething else."


Rico and Cipriano and Setsuna

Rico's Perception and Sense Motive rolls:
You see that Hannah is still fuming, the tip of her halberd stained with green goblin blood, her blood still high after the heat of street battle with the enemies. She seems as genuinely puzzled as you as to how the goblins got in and why the gate is open. Plus, despite her tendency to cheat at cards, you've never known Hannah to shirk her duty or refuse to help a fellow guardsman. It's extremely unlikely that she, a born and bred Sandpointer, would have assisted a goblin invasion in any way.

"Beats me, girlie," Hannah shrugs, eyeing Voss' swollen face with some concern. "We locked it up tight once the last couple o' travellers come through, and those of us on duty were supposed to come by three times on the hour. Didn't suppose we'd have any trouble... Guess we thunk wrong, huh?"

As Hannah hurries back to fetch help, Dagmar groans and makes a flailing attempt to get up. "Rico... there gob... goblins. Gotta... gotta warn da town."


*****

Red

There is something about the goblin commando's brazenness that sends a tingle down Red's spine, causing her fists to itch. She doesn't know why the goblins attacked or what they were after. But she does know that somebody opened the north gate to let goblins into Rico's beloved town, and that if things had gone any worse, something could have happened to Rico. Or to any of the other nice people in Sandpoint that she's come to like over her visits to the town.

Intimidate check:
(1d20+4)[20]

Suddenly fed up with the caster man's mumbo-jumbo, she reaches over and snatches hold of the goblin's vest, dragging it clear of the cart and slamming its tiny body to the ground. Unsheathing one of her kukris, she plants one knee on the goblin's chest and snarls back at it through clenched teeth, her eyes bright with rage, unaware of the ugliness shuddering in her voice.

"I'm not from here. And I got a knife. So I don't mind doing the hurting. He asked you a question. You answer it. Now. Or I kill you."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus has been observing the interrogation so far. Not his style. But Red 's tactic, he could understand. A bit untrained and undisciplined, but not bad.

"We want. To hurt you. Very. Much. For a. Long time. Answer him. Or answer. Me."

Aid another Intimidate [roll0]

[Desril]

Setsuna

After making sure the fire won't burn itself out too quickly, Setsuna has little she can offer to assist in tending the wounded and comes to a decision after hearing Rico and Hannah's short discussion.

There might be more people in danger like Foxglove-san, the guards may be able to beat the goblins but they can't be everywhere at once, and there's nothing I can do for these men that isn't already being taken care of.

"Rico-san, Fox-san, I am going to return to Red-san and the others to see if they need my aid. If not, I am going to assist the guard in hunting down any stragglers." She meets the gaze of the guardswoman and her companions to be sure there is nothing more for her to do before she starts to head in the direction of the White Deer.

Perception check to notice any cries for help or any goblins that aren't being dealt with: [roll0]

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano

"They ought to be stable now, ma'am", Cipriano answered to the female guard's threat of incorporating his entrails in a musical instrument. "Just don't let them bang their heads too hard for a week or two. I don't know how badly their heads were clobbered, so it's best not to take any chances that their skulls will crack again."

Still, while he was talking, Cipriano moved over to the two men - Dagmar first. Putting his hand on the guardsman's shoulder, the young cleric pushed him down. "No, friend. No more goblins. The ones that aren't dead are either taken prisoner or running away. Now hold still and I'll make sure you won't be bleeding your brains out through your ears." Carefully Cipriano removed the man's helmet and started going through Dagmar's head, feeling up the lumps with his fingers. When Setsuna mentioned she'd be going to see the others, he whistled to catch her attention. "If you could also bring me my healer's kit, I'd be much obliged. It's next to the saddlebags and my donkey."

I'm guessing this would be a Heal check? [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

Good you ain't turned. 'Sonly explanation fer that, though. There's still some vile turncoat amongst us, somewhere...

"Shh-shh." Rico croons over at the babbling Dagmar, one leather-bunched shoulder cushioning Voss' injured head, one hand gently stroking his neck--- the thumb along one close graze on his throat, the other fingers near the joint of his jaw. "There-there. Relief's here. They're dead and fled. Calm down, trooper. Breathe, breathe slowly, there..."

Rico jerks her head towards Cipriano and asks, "Cipriano, can we afford to remove... alright..." She then proceeds to follow his example with the other injured militia member, carefully undoing the straps and removing the helmet.

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv looks down at the goblin, flashing an almost apologetic smile, "You'd best answer them. I've seen them do terrible things to people they like." Mandraiv leans in as if to share a secret, "I don't think they like you. And if even that fails, I've got spells that melt your mind, leaving just what I want. Unfortunately for you, thats all they'll leave."

Bluff, if necassary:
[roll0]
Aid another intimidate:
[roll1]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Cipriano made a request to Setsuna to get his healer's kit, but that's back in the town square in Eunice's saddlebag. Desril, it's up to you whether Setsuna walks there in your next post.


Setsuna and Sirus and Mandraiv and Red:

Setsuna's Perception check:
You don't notice any cries for help or any other goblin threats. You do, however, arrive back at the prisoner cart, just in time to see Red slam the goblin commando into the ground and to hear everyone else try to intimidate it.

Shaken out of the Charm spell by Red's threat, the commando abruptly stops giggling and tries to wiggle out from under her knee. At the sound of Sirus' voice, however, it begins to whine, cringing as though about to be whipped. Mandraiv's smile doesn't seem to do much, but the commando does whine a little louder once the mage mentions having its brain melted down. Goblins are highly superstitious when it comes to magic, after all.

"I talk- I talk! D'n who - one o' yer longshanks come to see Chief a while 'go. Chief Ripnugget. Make deal. Tell us t'burn down yer town an' kill all o'you." It grins nervously. "So he tole t'tribe. So I burn an' kill."

*****

Cipriano and Rico

Under Cipriano's ministrations, Dagmar stops moaning and calms down, recovering enough to roll bloodshot eyes in Rico's direction.

"Ach. Rico- I sho' messed things up, didn't I?" he mutters slowly. "We saw the gate open... went o'er to check what was up. Next thing I know... got a whole buncha gobs set on me. Tried to help Voss..." Dagmar grunts and makes another effort to get up. "Voss, he all right?"

[Miraqariftsky]

"Sit the SKUGG down and keep quiet while Father Fox tends ye..." Rico growls at the stubborn Dagmar. "...or else I'll rip yer head off an' sew it back on so't ye can do some proper recovery, ye get me?"

"HRRGHMM. Sorry." she grunts. "Don't worry, he's with me. Bleeding's stopped, at least. Breathing's now steady, at least. Touch-an'-go earlier."

She softly slaps the stubbled halfelf's face, preparing the waterskin if he needs a drink upon waking. "Knifey, knifey, wakey, wakay. Knifear, ain't no time ta be dozin' onna job an' dozin' onna me goods. HRRGHMM. Voss? You still in there? Don't make me break travel regulations and break a Chelian's jaw ta get ye back."

Nodding at Dagmar across the cobbles where Cipriano tends to him, she says, "Right. Ambush. An' y'all came upon the gate ALREADY open? Heard nor smelled nothing outta the ord'nary before that? Noble's perfume or furs or foppish voice? Any of our known dissenters breaking gaol and letting the gobs in? Some sorta foreign voice or what?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Arriving just in time to see the interrogation, well, the damned thing may not know the name of whoever made that deal, but maybe it saw whoever it was.

Without drawing attention to herself she focuses her mind on listening in telepathically to the minds of those nearby, trying to sort out the thoughts of the goblin that's been coerced into talking from anyone else's.

Detect Thoughts DC 15

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano did his best to stifle a chuckle at Rico's threats. That might be interesting... sewing a head back on, the young cleric mused before he finished Dagmar's head-examination.

"Everything seems to be in order. You'll probably have some headaches later on, but unless you piss off your missus and make her give you one on the top of your head, you oughta be fine."

With that, Cipriano walked over to where Rico was cradling Voss's head, and started checkin his head for damages as well.

Heal check [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico and Cipriano

Dagmar tilts his head forward in assent. "Aye. We didn't hardly have time to notice nothing 'fore them goblins set on us. Truth be told... we weren't expecting anything to be going on. So me and Voss were just walking and... y'know. Horsing around. Talking piss. We only saw the open gate, didn't have time to think," he admits with some embarrassment, biting the edge of his lip. "Didn't see hide nor hair of anything 'cept gobs. Just the old plank on the ground... Say Rico. You gonna tell the boss on us?"

As Cipriano checks Voss's injuries, the half-elf begins to breath a little easier, but does not stir.

[Miraqariftsky]

Idiots! Incompetents! Laggards! Whorseon bastard pig-frakking fire-crapping worthless morons! We are DAH LAAAAAW! DAH LAAAAW must NOT fail! You failed! If those goblins were that bit more competent and kept their heads on and got to burning and killing rather than stopping to loot and stuff themselves, we'd be in ass-much bigger trouble. More casualties, assuredly. FRAK the lot of it. ARRRRRRRRGGGGH!

Rico's tusked jaw drops and champs but no speech comes forth. Her hands spasm in wordless rage. Her chest heaves as she takes in a deep breath...

...and then lets it back out in a long huff. She turns her face away.

"Did you at least FIGHT?" When she looks back at him, it is with rage distilled into resigned sadness. "As of now, we ain't yet sure if we got 'em all. Hope we did. 'Cept Hannah's runner. Can yeh imagine what woulda happ'd if these gobs weren't distracted? Weren't horsing around? More than just a coupla fires, more than just a handful dead.

And... just HOW horsing around were y'all?"

Rico snarls, "ALWAYS assume the worse, because there could ALWAYS be worse. Yer a gaddem warrior. Yer on GUARD. A guard guards. It's boring as hell ninety-nine times outta a 'undred, but NEVER fail when something actually happens. Ye don't fail just yerself or me or the sarge or the chief. Ye fail yer family, ye fail yer home, ye fail Sandpoint."

Her hand snatches a nearby broken piece of smouldering timber and slams it against the cobbles, sparks bursting into the darkening night. "Burning. Screaming. Can you feel that? Home, HOME, dying. Dying."

She scowls sadly and says in a dull voice, "Dereliction of duty resulting in public panic and disorder, arson, destruction of public property, theft, vandalism, assault and battery of as yet unreckoned individuals, attempted murder of law enforcers, probably a few murders of common citizenry.Wonder if I missed anything. The verdict: Guilty. Sentence... for the chief to decide."

"Arrrrrrrrrrgggggggghhhhh..." she groans and asks with a disgusted, despairing look in her eyes. "DID you at least FIGHT? Please tell me you fought."

One hand rakes like a claw through her hair. "Believe me, I don't want to bring the hammer down on y'all. DID? YOU? FIGHT? THEM?"

Frowning deeply and keeping on supporting the stricken Voss, Rico looks up at Cipriano and asks, "What's the deal with this guy, Fox? Need a pillow? A stretcher? What do I do?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

The Caydenite cleric frowned as he studied Voss. He was certain there were no injuries left, not ones that could explain why the man was still unconscious.

Unless...

"I'm worried. He should have woken up by now. It's possible that the goblin who put him down was using woodspider venom. Very powerful, very lethal. Luckily for him, I know the cure for that."

With that, Cipriano moved over to the small fire and picked up a piece of burning wood. From his belt he removed a small, unremarkable pouch. "Old Varisian remedy my grandmother taught me. We have to act fast. Unfortunately, the only way to administer the medicine is... ahem... rectally. Please, remove his pants while I prepare the substance. Quickly now, he's been out cold so long we can't wait for the stick to cool down. We'll have to use it hot."

Bluff check! :smallbiggrin: [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

"HRRHMM. As ye say, priest." says Rico concernedly as she viciously ruthlessly quickly efficiently rips his pants off. "Ye know how ta mend things, I know 'ow ta break 'em."

[North_Ranger]

"Excellent. Now, flip him on his belly and... um... take a hold of his cheeks. The lower ones. You... Dagmar, was it? Spread his legs and hold them, this might burn a little..."

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico and Cipriano

"Of course we fought back!" says Dagmar hotly, his blue eyes staring at Rico with indignant rage. "Wot, you think I just lay back and let them poke holes all over me and clubber me on the noggin? This is my home too. I ain't about to just let gobs run in and do as they please."

"'Sides," he mutters ruefully, "Wasn't like I was skiving or nothing. Just having a jaw with Voss about the Vinder girls and which one had the bigger ti-, er, the more prosperous figure. Voss said 'twas Katrine, so I threatened to knock some eyes into him with me trucheon. And I chased him up the road and that's when we saw the gate... I mean, come on! Was all harmless fun." Dagmar looks to Cipriano at this point, silently pleading for some brotherly support.


Voss' Sense Motive check:
(1d20+3)[10]

At the very last second, with a jerk of the limbs, Voss' eyes fly open and he frantically bats at Rico's arms in a somewhat futile attempt to pull his pants back on. "No! I'm better! I'm better! Geez, priest-man. Up the bum? Have a heart," he says accusingly.

[North_Ranger]

"But it's effective, isn't it? I didn't even to have to give it to you, and already you're up", Cipriano answered the horrified half-elf with a grin before tossing the piece of wood back in the flames. "Rico... he's all yours."

"And don't look at me, friend", he continued, looking at Dagmar. "I'm all for debating the merits of various sizes of bosoms, but not at the expense of getting the job done. But... you said you chased Voss down the road and then saw that the gate was open. Was there someone else who was supposed to be on gatehouse duty today?"

[Miraqariftsky]

She spits as Voss scrambles back and away.

Rico then bends down and using her left hand--- the same bloodstained, scorched, bandaged, brandy-reeking, re-scorched hand attached to a wounded arm clad in a ripped sleeve--- and grabs him by the tabard and brings him close in a grim parody of a lover's embrace. She smears his face with the goblin-blood and goblin-brains that had spattered up at her jutting jaw when she'd claimed those two table-kills.

"At least you were valiant against speedy, stealthy, swarming assault and weren't a coward who had to wait fer an arse-poker until he stirred. By rights I should, but I will only tell what needs be told--- you did what you could."

Abruptly, she lets him go and says, "Yeah, wot 'e said. Fer the luckieth time... Y'all arrived here an' 'twas already wide open? And y'all had been SURE ye'd locked the gate after the last travelers'd come in?"

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico and Cipriano

"Yes, we did lock the gate. I checked it myself before the festival got started. Said hello to your little redhead friend while I was at it. The bar was most definitely in place."

You both turn to behold Rico's boss - Sheriff Belor Hemlock - walking unhurriedly towards your group with a certain grim stolidness, his chainmail still gleaming where goblin blood hasn't splattered it. Just behind him, you recognise Hannah, who is supporting an exhausted looking Father Zantus. The good priest has had part of his beard scorched off, making him look uncharacteristically frazzled.

*****

Setsuna and Sirus and Mandraiv and Red (but this is pretty much a Setsuna only post)

Setsuna detects with Detect Thoughts...
Round 1: There are thoughts in the area. Oh yes, there are.

Round 2: Number of thinking minds - 1 half-orc, 2 humans, 2 goblins. The last goblin is still passed out from Sirus' fists.
Sirus: INT 10
Mandraiv: INT 20
Red: INT 8
Goblin Commando: INT 8
Goblin Warrior: INT 10

Round 3: Will Saves for DC 15
Sirus: (1d20+7)[20] - passed
Mandraiv: Player chooses to deliberately not roll the Save.
Red: (1d20+3)[8] - failed
Goblin Commando: (1d20+2)[12] - failed
Goblin Warrior: (1d20-1)[2] - failed

Breathing out, you empty your mind, pushing away distraction and silencing the clamour of your own body, immersing yourself into the deluge of thoughts around you...

Closest to you, one of the trussed up goblin prisoners moans and tries to wriggle out of the ropes binding it. Its mind is a tangled chattering mess of fear and hunger that almost overwhelms you at first, all dark warrens and cold stone and words in a guttural language that you do not understand, the whole lot swirling in a dizzying storm. You don't need to understand Goblin to realise that the creature is terrified out of its mind and is barely thinking straight.


The mind of the half-orc pugilist, on the other hand, is shut to you. Try as you might, there is no prying into this mind - it is closed, severe and inexorable as the teeth of a tempered steel trap.



Mandraiv notices you and tries to identify what you're doing...
Spellcraft check: (1d20+5)[21] for DC 17 - passed. Mandraiv knows that Setsuna is using Detect Thoughts on him.
You observe the young mage, the Kaijitsu relation, turn towards you and meet your gaze as you direct your focus towards him, a look of what appears to be faint amusement on his face. His thoughts flow freely, without obstruction, leaving your skin tingling as they wash over you - tingling with what, you're not sure.

1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, nice trick, 13, 21, 34, 55, brains, beauty, and mind-reading, 89, 144, 233, sexy combination, 377, 610, 987...


Even from where you are, you can sense the heat of Red's waning anger, a sudden welling of guilt - hands burning with blood that was hers, a blade slick with blood that wasn't, the chatter of knives in the dark, and always, always, the stink of fear and a thousand faces twisted in terror. His words - mine? No, I will not- The cold bite of the belt buckle, the choked animal whimpering, her heart pounding in her chest, a man with narrowed eyes standing over a woman who won't stop screaming...


By comparison, the goblin commando's mind, honed by cowardice and fear of what Sirus and Mandraiv might do to it, is like mountain water, visible right to the bottom. Buffeted by the odd Goblin utterance, the warrens and stone that you briefly saw earlier on in the goblin warrior's mind coalesce into clear images of fortified rooms, hard-packed earth burrows, and dried leaf nests. Of particular interest to you is a fleeting memory of what appears to be a tribal council of sorts, with goblins packed cheek to jowl into a large gathering space filled with smoke, being addressed by a tiny goblin who stands atop a gleaming horse skull. In the shadows by the tiny goblin, there is someone who is clearly not a goblin - all you catch before the image fades, however, is that this someone is tall and slender, with long hair tied back in a ponytail.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

The arrival of the sheriff and the priest made Cipriano instinctively jump up from where he was kneeling. He had always been a tad uneasy when it came to authority figures, and somehow he got the impression that this Shoanti lawman might not be as easily persuaded as Rico if they locked horns on some matter. Some people didn't need his "Varisian remedy"; they were born with a stick up their ass...

The sight of Father Zantus, however, turned the young cleric's weariness to worry. They were of different faiths, him and this town cleric... but they were still brothers in their professions. "Brother, are you well?" the armored young cleric asked as he strode past the sheriff to help the older priest. "Are you in need of healing?"

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

As the goblin is still gibbering in his grasp, Sirus feels something stir inside his skull. A strange, alien feeling, like someone trying to peek inside a darkened room which is sealed. But the feeling passes. Sirus takes a look at the chanting mage. A deep, meaningful, laden look, full of steel and warning. He then turns back to the goblin.

"You. Are. Very close. To. Being hurt. Very close. Speak."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Hearing the wizard's comments, Setsuna can't help but give a sheepish grin which doesn't fade as she gets nothing from the pugilist, but disappears as she hears and sees into Red's mind, quickly replaced by concern for the girl and the anguish she's in, how can she keep all of that so bottled up? There's just so much, it's making me want to break down just hearing it...

With a quick shake of the head, she redoubles her efforts on the goblin commando, worry about that later, I need to see...there, that one. The shadowy figure fresh in her mind, but not detailed enough to be useful, she approaches the goblin and does her best to hide her hatred for him and his kind and give off a calm, reassuring appearance.

"Now, now, there is no need to be afraid little one, it is enough that you try as hard as you can. I know you were at a meeting with others of your kind not long ago. There was someone who was not one of you there. If this was their plan, then clearly they have betrayed you and your kin. We can offer you vengeance, for the betrayal and your dead tribesmen, if you can remember their face. What did this person look like?"

Bluff to not look murderous [roll0]
Diplomacy to get the goblin to try and think rather than just squirm [roll1] (I'm assuming there's no attraction on the goblins' end, so didn't include the +1 from Alluring)

[Miraqariftsky]

My? MY?! My---! What in Desna's damnation are you implyi--- wait. He meant nothing by that. No, nothing at all. Plain as a grox' nose. Of course Red's my friend, what else could she be? ARGH! That conniving lechering weakling coward Voss, just leaning on me silent as a snake and NOT! DELIVERING! A! REPORT!Argh! Oh, wait, maybe not, maybe he was afraid I'd tear his throat out? BAAAAAAAH! Ahhhhh wanna KEELHAUL heeeeeem... wait. No, no, no. Frak no, argh. Still need ta get back at--- fiiiiiiist iiiiiiiiiin faaaaaaace--- him. Eh? Grr, grumble... Hmm! He could sub in and do a triple paperwork shift? Appropriate punishment enough, especially since he'd be barred from field-work with that injury-status...

Rico nods in acknowledgement of Dagmar's report, then suddenly stands to attention when Hemlock strides into view. Without conscious thought, she snaps a salute and barks, "Captain on deck! Sir! Concerned-and-capable citizen, reporting! Was... relaxing at Ameiko's, AS ordered. With 'hunter Red. Responded to and repressed goblin raiders at Ameiko's, cathedral plaza, afront the White Deer... enemy body count estimated to a dozen, more or less. Sorry for inexact count, sir. Heat of battle. With aid from certain other concerned-and-capable travelers. Captured some gobs, held for interrogation. Proceeded here when we saw the nor'gate ajar."

"Sir" she closes, steps back and looks at Voss and Dagmar meaningfully, hoping they'd follow through and complete their report. Truthfully.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico and Cipriano

Father Zantus waves Cipriano away with a good-natured grin. "I'm all right, young man, thank you. Just a little weary after all that running around and blasting and healing. Phew! I didn't know goblins liked fire that much - one of 'em got a little too close, as you can see, but thank Desna, we came through pretty well." he says, indicating his frizzy beard and making a comic grimace. The man is clearly on his last legs, but such is his dedication to the town that he won't rest until he's sure that everyone else is Sandpoint is all right.

"Come now, Hannah was just telling me on the way here that we had you and these others to thank for chasing the goblins off? " He says warmly, clapping Cipriano on the shoulder. "That's mighty decent of you, especially since you don't seem to be from around here. I owe you my thanks, chosen of the Lucky Drunk. Indeed, it is luck that you were here today. You and your companions - you've saved my home and this town."


Meanwhile, Sheriff Hemlock listens in grave silence as Dagmar and Voss give their reports, sheer embarrassment and respect for their leader freeing their tongues to admit that they'd been up to tomfoolery when they'd discovered the open gate.

"I see," he says, folding his meaty arms, his face inscrutable as he passes an eye over his two battered watchmen. "You two are probably in a lot of trouble. Now, I say probably, because I'm still not done asking questions yet. I'll let you know how much once I'm done. But for the moment, I suppose you two varmints could afford to get patched up by Father Zantus back there. Get yourselves back to the station once you're capable of walking. There's work yet to be done this day. Oh, and Constable Voss?"

"Sir?" asks the half-elf nervously, unsure of what singular torment he could be in for.

"Put some pants on." Hemlock doesn't bat an eyelid, his voice flat and his flinty gaze as unyielding as the noon sun. "Your bare and hairy bottom is not only extremely unbecoming, it is doing absolutely nothing to improve your situation right now. You know the regulations about being improperly attired while on duty."

"Sir, yessir," mutters Voss, bowing his head and bunching up his trousers around his crotch as he tries to pull his tangled clothing up as fast as he can.

Hemlock finally turns towards Rico, lifting his brows in mild amusement at her sooty and bloodied form. "Miss Rico. For a constable who's not supposed to be on duty, you've been hauling a lot of ass in the past half hour," he says evenly, though the corners of his eyes crinkle with laughter. "I have it from no less than fifteen witnesses that you were seen happily mowing down goblins with one of Miss Kaijitsu's festival tables in the town square. Where is that table right now, may I ask?"

*****

Setsuna and Sirus and Mandraiv and Red

Goblin Commando's Sense Motive check:
(1d20)[5] - utterly, utterly, failed!
The goblin commando has regained its sight by now and it squints up at Setsuna, absolutely astonished that one of the 'longshanks' is bothering to parley nicely with it. At first it hesitates, baring its yellowed teeth and muttering indistinctly to itself in its own language. But once Sirus renews his threat, it immediately cringes, flattening its ears against its skull before hissing in a low scratchy voice.

"Ssss. Paleskin. Grsh. 'adda big bow. Dressed grrreen," it growls, fidgeting under Red's knee before daring to peek up at Setsuna again, something in its glowing orange eyes changing as it catches sight of her face. "Ooh, yesh," the goblin purrs with relish. "Now I re'ember. Was a pinty-ear longshank. Just like yers. 'Cept longer."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red keeps her knee firmly planted on the goblin's skinny chest, only half-listening to what was going on. Recalling her father and what he'd done always made her feel a little sick on the inside. And now, to top things off, her head feels weird too. Hollow, almost - like someone had opened it up and scraped the insides out.

Gritting her teeth, she forces herself to pay attention, making sure her kukri stays poised above the goblin's throat, just in case it tries any funny business. This was no time to be thinking about the past. You couldn't change that. Live in the present, Rathi had always said.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus takes in the new information. So. Someone probably from the town. Someone not human. Someone who had a bow. The list would not be that big. Someone whose ears are pointed and big. Thus, not one of the Duruk-hai.
Half orcs
And even a goblin would recognize an elf. A half elf. Interesting.

"One more. Question. The long eared pinkskin. Was it male? Or female? Answer!"


I am going here with the assumption that the ear thing follows Golarion, where elves have really big ears. And that among humanoid species, males and females are generally recognizable.

After that, Sirus will go and question the warchanter (it is alive, no?) after looting everything in sight.

[Miraqariftsky]

Still holding the salute, eyes wide front, Rico replies, "Sir. Table's at somewhere atwixt Ameiko's an' the White Stag. Unfortunately broken. Made a good enough shield-n-club while't lasted. Yessir, I plead Guilty to one count of Vigilantism; plead for leniency on accounta' Extenuatin' Circumstanceses an' Civic Defense Duty. Sir."

Her face twitches and she juts her chin back towards the vague direction of the town plaza. "Forgot, sir--- Red an' I 'elped put out one of the fuel wagons near the armoury-n-smithy. Was set ablaze by them gobs. Unsure if primary attack or attack of opportunity."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Brother, doesn't The Song of the Spheres frown upon lying?" Cipriano couldn't help but ask with a smile as he helped the older cleric find somewhere to sit for a moment. "I insist. I have expended my more powerful spells fighting goblins, but this much I can still do." Not waiting for any excuses, the young man opened the walls of his soul again, allowing another wave of Cayden Cailean's strength rush through those around him.

Channel Energy [roll0] Don't worry, I've still got two charges left. Besides, this way Voss and Dagmar can get to shoveling crap that much faster :smallbiggrin:

Once the moment had passed, Cipriano sighed deeply. "There... As for the goblins, I can say no more than I only stood back and tried to be of service. Miss Rico here, for example, would have made Cayden himself roar with approval, using a table as a massive flail. I'm sure the stains'll come off when it rains. Besides, it will make a good story when we hold service tonight with mead and wine. If you don't disapprove of me hanging the Placard of Wisdom here in Sandpoint for a few days", he couldn't help but laugh a little as he mentioned the traditional way of setting up a shrine of the Lucky Drunk: writing the few lines of the Caydenite holy text on a piece of paper and pinning it on the wall of an inn with a knife. If he would stay for a longer while, he would have the same text carved into an actual wooden placard.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna shoots Red a worried glance before shifting her eyes to Sirus, I hope he doesn't overdo it, you can kill the damned thing once we get more information, but for now we need it talking not cowering, and then returning her gaze to the goblin, "Answer his question please, we can not track down this betrayer if that is all we have to go on. It would be a shame if they got away with betraying your tribe like this, you do not want that, do you?"

Diplomacy [roll0]
Int check to commit the mental image of the half-elf(?) to memory [roll1]

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Cipriano

Cipriano channels energy, everyone below maximum health within range gets 4 HP.

Father Zantus has a surprisingly hearty laugh for a man of his thin build. He stands a little taller as the wave of divine energy gives him a fresh burst of energy. "Thank'ee, that did a spot of good" he says cheerfully, rubbing the back of his neck. "And please, don't worry about conducting worship of the Lucky Drunk at any of the taverns! Though I do believe that Lady Ameiko would be more than happy to host you for that. We get along here when it comes to the gods - that's why the chapel's meant for the worship of more than one. If you do ever want a more formal spot for a service, the chapel's open to you any time."

"By the way, I don't believe I caught your name just now...?"

*****

Rico

"Vigilantism?" Hemlock's grim face splits in a wolfish grin. "I'm not sure that's applicable in the middle of an invasion of the town. I don't want to be arresting you, now, Rico - the cells will be full of goblins in a bit and I want them all alive. So unless you're feeling like cosying up with them tonight, you're fine. Just another citizen doing what needed to be done to save the town, and a mighty fine job you did too. Though I do expect you to apologise to Miss Kaijitsu and make good on the cost of that table, hear?"

Upon hearing about the burning fuel cart though, his expression immediately reverts to its usual gruff scowl. "Hmph. That's the third one I've heard about. Something is definitely afoot. Perhaps I'll have to call you back to active duty sooner that I'd hoped, despite my better judgement... I'll have to get another man on it right away.." Hemlock sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose, shaking his head. "In the meanwhile though, I don't suppose you'd be willing to help your local Wotch get all goblin POWs down to the garrison for detainment and further questioning? In your capacity as a helpful citizen?"

*****

Setsuna and Sirus and Mandraiv and Red

Sense Motive rolls from OOC thread:
Mandraiv: (1d20-1)[4]
Sirus: (1d20+9)[18]
Setsuna: (1d20-1)[6]

As far as any of you can tell, the goblin commando seems to be telling the truth - it is much too afraid of Sirus to do otherwise, doing its best to avoid his gaze and flinching every time he opens his mouth. Gnashing its teeth, it growls and gibbers and strains at its bonds.

"I dunno, boss!" The goblin sputters, squirming away. "'e dint smell proper - smelt like both. 'ad long 'air. Real long shanks. Could see in t'dark wit no fire. Spoke like us easy. Shoulda known- kint trust no longshanks to look out fer goblins."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Brother Cipriano Verneti, of the Sanctified Alehouse of the Accidental God in Magnimar, at your service", the young man introduced himself with all the panache of a cosmopolitan cleric - and he still managed to keep that rakish grin on his face the whole time.

"And thank you for the advice, I will see Lady Ameiko about renting a room and a table for a while. That would be the... Rusty Dragon Inn, no? As for the chapel... I appreciate the offer, but I fear some of the more conservative residents of Sandpoint might not take the usual services of the Lucky Drunk too kindly. Something about us being too rowdy. But should I decide to stay here for the long term, I'll take you up on that offer when the feast of the First Brewing nears."

"But all this we can discuss at a later date", Cipriano suddenly grew more serious. "When Rico is ready, we intend to join our comrades-in-arms on the town square, where they are guarding and hopefully interrogating prisoners. We oughta find out soon enough what's going on. This kind of attack... it seems awfully brazen, even for a bunch of crazy arsonists that is the goblinkind. In broad daylight, and when the guard is already watchful due to celebrations? My mentor spoke of goblins as an inherently cowardly race that preferred to attack in the dead of the night. Never like this."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red almost rolled her eyes in frustration. That lousy stinking goblin - it made no sense. How on earth could it not know whether the elf was male or female? She'd heard drunken tavern jokes that had said the same thing, but to hear that same drivel out of a goblin's foul maw? Damned useless thing. Maybe it was just saying what it thought the pugilist wanted to hear.

At least the weird feeling in her head had vanished. Maybe that had something to do with all this running around after so much beer and mead. Glaring sourly at the goblin commando, she gets up and dusts off her pants where the cloth made contact with it. There was no use in threatening such a pathetic creature any more. Not if it was going to be like this.

Red nods curtly at Sirus - it's all yours - before walking over to the rain barrel that the crazy man had been hiding behind earlier on. (She hadn't noticed when he'd vanished, nor did she care very much.) Prying off the lid, she skims a handful of water off the top and splashes the lot on her face, closing her eyes in bliss as she lets the cold water run down her forehead and cheeks, dripping onto her armour and soaking into her shirt collar.

It's been thirteen years already. Just let it go...

[Miraqariftsky]

"Sir, yessir" Rico replies, her thick lips twitching in a grin that mirrors that of her commanding officer. "Drop by sar Battlehorn's, then. Not to worry, wun't be too much carpentry. A board, a stem and feet. How hard cu't be? Wun't be the same thing, but 'twill do the job, methinks. Oh, and sir? I suggest a change of armament in the Wotch. At the least let crossbows be standard issue, as well as shields and scale mail. Voss an' Dagmar 'ere fought, aye, but were borne down by yon swarmin' horde. And bugle-horns or somesuch. Sir."

Finally letting her hand down, she stretches, then strides over, retrieves her greatsword and gropes around for a handy rag, but finds that her pockets' store of spare ragcloth had run out. Shrugging and sneering as she does so, she cuts a swatch from the side of her skirt, wets part of it from a nearby barrel and sets to cleaning her sword with it while walking back to the White Deer.

Yes, yes, yessssss, Red. Practicality, eh? Huh. Well. You DID say everything'd be alright... so I came in my relaxingest civvie-wear... Hmph. Relaxed yet still wearing armour? Baaaackup armour, ye wanker. Which -did- save yer arse a coupla times, there. Wasswrawngwitme? PFFT. Frak you, it's ALIVE wot matters. Not that it matters all that much with how, DAMN, those folk were fast. And GOOD. 'Specially that Sirus an' that Setsuna. Ask to be taught? Maybe. We'll see. When time permits? Grr, thassanutha' visit to Mila's. Yaaaaaack. Could I ask you to go in my stea--- no. No, no. Frak me, that's cowardly.

Yeah, yeah. That's one thing you an' Il Maestro agree on... Pff. Maestro? Yer dead, so shut yer friggen trap, eh? I'll wear wot I damn well please an' ye ain't my father. Hell, I wen...

Hrrrrnnnggh.

Bah!

Hearing Cipriano, she nods with a scowl and says, "Dass right. 'Sgotta be summin' deeper. They be used as pawns by some schemin' mastermind, or me father's an elf."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"And the sooner we find out who's pulling the proverbial strings, the better", Cipriano added to Rico's assessment as he stood up. Once again he tied his god's holy symbol around his neck, leaving the frothing ale mug carved on oak resting comfortingly against his chest. "If there's nothing else to be done here, we oughta be off. Those goblins can be a handful, bound or not."

"Besides, the sooner we get done here, the sooner we can all gather at the inn for some drinks. First round's on me, Rico."

[Miraqariftsky]

"Of course." Rico replies tersely and leads the way back. She snorts and says, "Handful nuthin'. Tied 'em all in a bundle, deddent I? Clobber 'em again, haul the whole lot o'er one shoulder, then haul off to the gaol, then..."

Amber eyes blink and her lips work but no words come forth. She then breathes, "...I'm off-duty, technically!" Her right hand shoots out and gives Cipriano an iron-gripped affectionate shaking. "No paperwork!"

Still walking, she lets go of him as the implications further sink in. "No form-filing, no criminal archives, no property damage tallies, no evidence-ledgers... no friggen paperwork... I..."

"Desna's damnation!" she ruefully swears. "Why do I feel friggen mixed about that? It's a RELIEF not to do paperwork, yet..." she shakes her head and lets her words trail off.

One thick brow rises at Cipriano's last remark, "Huh? That's... part of yer duty, I take it? Giving first rounds?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano was somewhat surprised by the half-orc's mutterings about procedure, but he thought it best not to start asking questions. He had already had a taste of Rico's sense of duty, back when she had clobbered him down when running away from the angry father and his pitchfork.

Instead, he chose to laugh at the half-orc's remark about duty. "My pleasure and my duty. Cayden Cailean considers such offers the first part of any decent ceremony in his name. But don't tell me you would refuse a beer or three after all this?"

[Miraqariftsky]

Flabbergasted, she appears
Across her broad face flit
Gratitude and gladness
Guilt and unnamed fears
But smiles at blessing of beers
And clouts him again with a cheer
"HAH-HAAAARRR! Amen to that."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus nods as the goblin talks. So. It was either an elf or more probably a half elf. That would be enough. Sirus, without a second glance, gets up and starts to half move, half drags the goblins where the original prisoners were. As he does so, he turns to Red, face still stony. With a nod, he indicates his intentions. Not ordering, not asking, just declaring.

Your move Red


When all the prisoners are secured, with or without Red 's help, Sirus proceeds to systematically search the bodies of all foes, alive or dead. Again, he will wait for Red after his intentions are clear. All his actions are clearly visible, showing without a doubt that he intents them to be public.

"Strange female, this Red. Courageous but undisciplined. Too quick. Driven by something. She has good reactions, though"

After that is done, he will patiently wait for the human cleric and the half-orcess to return. It was imperative that someone of authority was notified.

After the looting, ready to proceed! Sirus will make sure that prisoners are delivered to someone with authority before he goes on though.

Reactions to Red forthcoming, depending in her actions

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Replacing the lid of the rain barrel, Red turns to see the strange pugilist jerk his head towards the goblin prisoners. She looks quizzically at him for a good few seconds before she realises that he probably wants some help in getting them back to the town square. So much for keeping goblin smell off her clothes then. She'd have to take a shower later. Hopefully none of the inns had burned down in the meanwhile.

Red obliges and picks up the two goblin warriors easily by the scruff of their necks, trailing the pugilist back to the square. She'd hung out with Rico and other sell-swords long enough to recognise the signs of orc-blood in the pugilist, despite his bearing. But it was funny how different he was from the rest of them. He didn't carry any weapons that she could see. Maybe he didn't need any weapons.

"... You are scary," she remarks, a faint wry smile on her face as she catches up with him.

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv walks back to the square, a little tired, but glad the fighting's mostly over. He calls to the others he fought with, "I'll be at the tavern. Let's see if I can't get my cousin to crack open the good stuff."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Sensing that nothing more can be gained from the goblin, Setsuna lets Red and Sirrus decide the goblins' fate as she realizes oh, I was retrieving Cipriano's pack and returns to completing Cipriano's request. Seeing that her companions have already taken the initiative on handling the prisoners, she quickly moves ahead to track down the cleric's supplies before hurrying back to where she last saw him.

Perception check required to find him? [roll0]

If she does see him/doesn't need to roll:

She approaches him and offers his pack, with a slight blush of shame, "I apologize for the delay Fox-san, trying to extract information from one of the captives distracted me de gozaru."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus nods at Madraiv 's suggestion. After all that, the inn would be good. It has been a big day. But it has not yet ended.

After moving the prisoners, Sirus starts the collection of valuables. Methodically and precisely, he stacks them and counts them, with Red's help. After Red 's exclamation that he is scary, he nods, his face impassive.

"You are. Scary. Too. You fought goblins. When everyone else. Was running. Think of it. Fear is a weapon. I use it. As such.

And as all weapons, it can cut. Both ways."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Setsuna didn't have to walk very far; by the time she had retrieved the kit, Cipriano and Rico were already half-way back to the town square. The young cleric laughed as he accepted the kit with a nod.

"Thank you, Miss Setsuna. Even though we didn't need it... some healing magic and folk medicine were all that was needed", he said with a chuckle. Folk medicine indeed... "Did the goblins tell you anything of interest? Or did they just chatter and threaten to cut off various body parts?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna smiles at the good news but shakes her head in response to the question, "It was not much, but from what it told us it was probably an elf or half elf with a long ponytail that talked the goblins into this attack. Is that an uncommon enough description for this town to narrow down who it may have been?"

I'll try and draw a sketch of that person tonight, perhaps it will help more than just a description.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Huh... that isn't much to go on. But it's a start. Me and Rico, we found out that someone opened the north gate from the inside", Cipriano answered as he walked with the two women back towards the square. "There's something going on here, something more than just a random goblin raid..."

[Desril]

Setsuna

"I agree. I think I may stay here a while longer than I had planned, I want to know what is going on and find the one responsible for this. I do not suppose either yourself or Rico-san know of a place where I can stay cheaply?"

If not I'll just need to sleep in the woods, but with the goblins about...

She walks with the pair back towards the square, idly wondering if there was something she forgot to do.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Well, I've been told that the Rusty Dragon Inn would be a welcoming establishment for a cleric of the Lucky Drunk", Cipriano answered with a small smile. "I could put in a good word for you."

[Desril]

Setsuna

The Rusty Dragon, huh? I think that was the name of the Kaijitsu's daughter's establishment...well, I suppose any assistance I get is more a reward for trying to help than because of my name, she may not even recognize me, with only my given name...

She returns the smile lightly, "That would be much appreciated." The smile is cut short however, with the adrenaline finally dying down, Setsuna once again is properly aware of her improper dress and looks away flushed, muttering quietly to herself, "I should not have done that," thinking of the warchanter she charged.

[Miraqariftsky]

When Rico and Cipriano finally arrive back at the square, though the halforc guard now comes in clothing a bit more torn, a bit more stained with a bit more blood and ash and mud, she seems to be in better spirits than she had been earlier. Dragon-pommeled greatsword once more returned to its backslung sheath, she grunts appreciatively at the others' work with the goblins, backhands the little buggers back into unconsciousness, then heavs the whole roped-together bundle of miscreants easily over one shoulder, setting off for the town's gaol...

...along the way, she grunts at Setsuna and says, "Yer question. Got some answers to't. More answers'n'd be ideal, an' more questions fer more ivvestigation. You want to help wi' such, Sarenrae smile on ye--- come with me'n Red as we deliver this package o' uglies to the gaol, make yer report ta Sheriff Hemlock. Liase wi' me after, cossultation's at the Rusty Dragon, ask Keep'Ameiko fer the room of Il Maestro."

Rico snorts and adds, "Probably after Father Fox'd spoken the evenin's blessing."

Rumbling at Red, she asks once they get a bit of distance from the others, "Red, how're ye doing? How're these new friggers doing? Everything... up top an' clear? Nuthin' dirty?"

Along the way, she pats around in her coat and eventually fishes out a well-worn notebook. She frowns as she has no writing material immediately to hand and shrugs--- shaking the trussed-up goblins on her shoulder as she does so--- and snatches a piece of half-charred wood from some failed arson-victim building.

She flips it open and scribbles...

Draft: Casefile 469 entry zero, date 22-09-4707
Treachery, nor'gate opened, goblins entered DURING ceremony, several arsons, thefts. Actual casualties still being reckoned. Raid repulsed. Competent concerned travelers aided.

Suspect/s: boss-grade [?] elfblood, long-hair/ponytail, "TALKED the goblins into the attack".

Need more info.

Possible list:
>Andosanna, Shalelu--- fullblood, female, ranger, seasonal, prime, stealthy. Nobody else knows of region's goblinkind more than she does... BUT she HATES goblins. Opportunity, means, aye. Motive, nay.
>Velerin, Hannah--- fullblood, female, herbalist, local, prime [?], civilian. Likely contact with gobs? Not high.
>Povalii, Rynshinn--- halfblood, male [?]. Clothier/seamstress/tailor/NEEDLEWORKER. Likely contact with gobs? Not high.
>Kaijitsu, Tsuto--- halfblood, male. Brewer/taverner/brawler. Current whereabouts unknown. See: File 417, public disturbance, domestic dispute. Likely contact with gobs? Maybe.
>Tander, Nisk--- halfblood, male. Alchemist, local. See: Files 117, 213, 379, 444. Suspected of arson-by-proxy, poisoning, smuggling, dangerous substances: the brewing and trafficking thereof, murder. All cold cases, as yet unproven. Sanctions threatened, not carried out. [Chief getting soft in old age?] Current whereabouts...

...and then she slaps the notebook closed and tosses aside the now-worn stub of her makeshift pencil.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

The pugilist's comment unsettles Red more than she lets show, something in her chest tightening at the mere mention of fear being used as a weapon. She didn't want to be like her father. But if she went around hurting people and threatening to kill them, then what did that make her?

She shakes her head, her voice subdued as she helps him to stack the goblins' equipment. "...This is... Rico's home. I had to help. I didn't... mean. To be scary." Looking down at the piece of goblin armour in her hands, she sighs to herself, then attempts a brave smile at the pugilist. "But yes. You are... right. Fear can... hurt... people. I will try... to be careful. Like you."

Upon seeing Rico and Mister Fox approach, Red immediately rises to her feet and joins her friend. "I'm... all right. They do good work," she says quietly. Then, eyeing the ruined edge of Rico's skirt, Red makes a face and grins - for real, this time. "Rico. You spoilt all your clothing," she says accusingly, raising an eyebrow in mock suspicion.

*****

Sirus and Red loot the goblin POWs. Total loot list, including items discovered behind the White Deer are as follows:


1 potion of Cure Moderate Wounds - in Red's pocket
1 potion of Cure Light Wounds
1 masterwork horsechopper - broken in half by Rico
2 shortbows
2 quivers with 20 arrows each
2 studded leather armour (small)
7 leather armour (small)
8 dogslicers
1 whip
20 gp

*****

GM post

You all leave the town square around the same time, with the struggling goblin prisoners slung over Rico's back like so many unhappy chickens bound for market....


Those who wish to follow Rico down to the Watch Garrison make a left turn and proceed with her down Tower Street. The acrid smell of smoke is rather less heavy now, with the sounds of fighting in the street replaced by the buzz of several hundred people - talking, laughing, every single one of them relieved that the goblin attack has failed after all. Your group receives several rousing cheers as you all make your way down the street, though some citizens do glance nervously at the goblin prisoners, fidgeting with the weapons that they still hold.

Sheriff Hemlock isn't back yet when your group arrives at the Garrison - he's probably still out handling things down at North Gate with Father Zantus. Some of the other guards are present, however, and they scramble to their feet at the sight of your prisoner haul. The jailor, a hulking scarred Shoanti brute named Vachedi, steps forward, a low rumble meant to be a chuckle starting deep in his chest when he sees how many live goblins you all have brought in.

"Aye. Cells are gonna be overflowing with so many little guests. Guess all the drunks will have to go elsewhere to sleep tonight, eh? Dunno what the boss has in mind though - if we keep 'em, we'll either have to kill the lot or let them all go. I don't fancy keeping no gobbos as pets now," he shrugs at Rico while gazing at the others with no small amount of curiosity. He recognises Red though, and spares her a brief upward quirk of the mouth.

*****

Those who decide to follow Mandraiv back to his cousin's tavern turn right after leaving the town square. Despite the invasion having been quelled, the town remains restless, with parents calling out for their children and neighbours standing in the streets, still clutching the staves and kitchen knives they'd hurriedly snatched up, despite the obvious cheer in their voices. Ever so often, you come across the corpse of a dead goblin - some trampled by horses, some beheaded by the town watch, and one floating in a half-smashed in rain barrel, dead by drowning.

After making your way through the various side streets to avoid the crowd, you arrive in the open space where Sandpoint hosts its twice-weekly markets. Thankfully, today wasn't a market day, leaving the place mercifully devoid of the vendors and shoppers who usually throng the area. There are no dead goblin bodies or scorch marks or smokey smell here - perhaps the goblins didn't manage to reach this side of town before they were routed.

Over at the other side of the marketplace, you find Mandraiv's cousin, Ameiko Kaijitsu, chatting with a bunch of worried looking townsfolk, her samisen slung over her shoulder and her rapier worn openly at her hip. Upon catching sight of your group, she waves you over, elbowing Mandraiv playfully in the ribs once he is close enough.

"So you're back! I was wondering if you'd been 'unavoidably detained' by the ladies or something," she says jovially, flashing Mandraiv a brilliant smile. "And in one piece too. Did you manage to find Father Zantus? How were things on the other side of town? Or did you just run back to find Katrine the second my back was turned?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna nods in response, "I will do just that. I would like to talk with you more in any case, and I am no artist but I can try to draw a picture of the one that was behind the goblin attack once I can sit down. The image may prove more helpful than just the description."

That said, she follows Rico to the garrison, her eyes occasionally shifting to Red with a look of concern, I can't just let her suffer like she is, but where do I begin? I'll need to talk to her in private at some point...

[Miraqariftsky]

"Sgood, sgood..." Rico mutters in response, ducking a barber's signpost but braining one of the bound goblins in passing.

Amber eyes twinkle as she bares her tusks in a long frown, wolvish ears flattening in guilt. "Sorry-sorry, blame battle-damage. Not all. Perdy sure'd I didn't frigg me loincloth. KOFF. Don't worry, still got spares o' civvies... an' me uniform... still in official lockup, though."

~~~

When they arrive at the garrison, Rico grunts in grim acknowledgement as she none too gently deposits her cargo with Vachedi. "Aye. Please, sir see that they're made fit fer further interrogation and... almost certainly summary execution. Father Cipriano'd probably want his rope back, but might be persuaded to donate it in the name of the Law, hmm?"

"Hallo, officers." she says at troopers Halast and Nim. She slams her palms on their desk, leaning over them, coat reeking of ale, sweat, ash and goblin-blood, nothing seductive at all about the ripped civvies and heaving bosom beneath gleaming chainmail. Rico snorts like a rooting wild boar right at their faces. "Please, open a new casefile 469-primary. Subject, goblin raid and suspected traitor-and/or-mastermind."

Shooting first her gaze at the aquiline-nosed guardsman son of a Taldori exile, then towards Sirus and Cipriano. "Please take the official statements of these two commendably capable-and-concerned passing travelers. Thank you. Gentlemen, once more unto the nock. Please. Thank you."

She then glaringly smiles at the bald, bearded, dark-skinned Osiriani expat, then pulls a couple of chairs for Setsuna and Red while herself remaining standing. "The same request, officer with the addendum that yer put yer artistic skill to use in drawing or helping her draw a composite sketch of the suspect. Please. Thank you."

While they're at that, Rico snatches some proper writing implements and rewrites and expands her initial report. Putting that aside, she begins to shuffle through the archives, then stops and asks, "Sirs? Request permission to access complete files for ehem..."

She then moves closer and shows whichever officer had finished with their processing first and shows them her notebook's supplemental file on the list of possible suspects.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus saw Red becoming uncomfortable with his comments. That was not his intention. Not following his intention through is unsettling. He must rectify.

"Not. So. You misunderstood. You use. Deadly weapons. Skillfully. As you should. You use fear. Without the same. Caution in its. Use. And thus. It can hurt you. Too. When it is time. To be. Firm. Be Firm. When not. Do not. But know. Which time. It is."

When the loot has been assembled, Sirus will put it in a bag, with an accounting in, and give it to someone to carry, his first choice Rico.

"These are. The possessions of the goblins. By law and custom. They must be split among. Those that fought them."

He will then follow Rico to finally meet someone in charge. He stands by when Rico gives her report. He will then speak, his voice cutting through small talk.

"There was someone. Working with. The goblins. Probably from. The town. A half elf. Or. An elf. Carrying. A bow. Speaking Goblin. Dressed in. Green. He was. The planner. Of the attack. That is. The real. Enemy.

Until he is. Found. This town. Is not safe. And I am not sure. It will be after."

His opinion known, Sirus will wait for the rest to have their say.

[Mithric Gunn]

Though weary, Mandraiv manages a grin, "Hey, 'Meiko! The goblins interrupted my.. picnic, unfortunately. They seem to have terrible timing. I helped Rico and some others deal with a group of the goblins, they're bringing them in. By the way, have you seen Katrine?"

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

That was the sixth time she'd caught Setsuna gazing at her funny since they'd gotten out of the square. Red blinked and returned the favour, giving the tiefling a frank but puzzled look. What a weird lady. And did she know that the nice blue and gold tassled scarf she'd wrapped around herself was someone's kapenia? If that went up in flames, some Varisian somewhere was going to be really really mad.

Red waved her hand in front of Setsuna's face. "...Miss Setsuna? Are you all right?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

When they arrived at the gaol, Cipriano looked somewhat... uncomfortable. Maybe it was memories - a man who was used to drinking, carousing and barfighting certainly would have been familiar with the local gaols. Or perhaps it was the presence of manacles and iron bars; things that were anathema to the freedom-loving doctrine of the lucky drunk. Still, the cleric offered no resistance to the idea of bringing the goblins here for the time being.

"I... I should think the good gaoler has better bonds than my coil of rope, Rico", the young man answered when the half-orc's mention of his rope - not to mention using some other moniker of him than "Father Fox" - stirred him from his reveries. "But I'll be happy to give my statement. As soon as possible."

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Mandraiv went alone to seek Ameiko Kaijitsu's inn.

Sirus, Setsuna, Red, Rico, and Cipriano went to the Watch Garrison. Since Rico was busy carrying prisoners, Red is currently holding on to the loot bag.

*****

Mandraiv

Ameiko snorts in an unladylike manner at your mention of 'picnic' and gives a light shrug in response to your question. "Can't say I have, cousin. I'd advise staying away though. At least for the rest of tonight. You know how Ven's been over the rumours about Katrine and Harker," she says, giving you a warning look as she claps your shoulder. "Ven's a good man. Try not to antagonise him, all right?"

"All that said, where is constable Rico?" Ameiko grins at you heartily. "I've been hearing all sorts of tales about her using one of my tables to bash goblins. Not to mention that Mister Foxglove came back here just a while ago and was gushing about some Taldane with fancy fistwork who saved him from being eaten by goblin dogs. Says you did a neat job with one of your spells too, by the by. I want to thank Rico and everyone else who saved the town properly in the proper adventuring way - with lots of drinks and song! Surely you weren't thinking of celebrating this victory alone?"

*****

Everybody Else

In Sheriff Hemlock's absence, nobody has been giving these two watchmen any orders and they have been idling about the station at a complete loss as to what they ought to be doing, given the emergency situation. To have Rico barking orders at them is a huge relief and they gladly jump to follow her instructions, not even bothering to question her list of suspects.

While Trooper Halast obediently jots down Cipriano and Sirus' witness statements, Trooper Nim does his best to oblige with a scratchy pencil rendition of the person that Setsuna saw in the goblin commando's mind. Unfortunately, Nim's artistic skills are mediocre at best, and Setsuna's description of the shadowy figure is still too vague for him. Despite Nim's best efforts, all he can come up with is a blobby silhouette that could belong to just about any long-haired elf blood.

"Sorry 'bout that, missy," mutters Nim, his cheeks flushing a ruddy shade of crimson palpable despite his dark skin, placing his pencil down and trying to hide the lousy sketch under his elbow. "I ent much of a drawing man. We don't usually have to draw anything for the kinda crimes we get down here."

With Vachedi busy securing the goblins downstairs in the basement cells and the other two scrambling to follow Rico's instructions, nobody is there to ban Rico from a quick rifle through the wooden cabinet that Hemlock uses to store previous case files. The results are disappointing though. Aside from an impressive pile of fines and reports levied against Nisk Tander, the alchemist, for the sale of suspect goods, it seems that Sandpoint's other elves and half-elves have been extremely well behaved citizens. Rico cannot find the case files that she is looking for, despite her encyclopaedic knowledge of Sandpoint's unsavoury elements.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus watches with inward apprehension at the way his testimony is handled. Outwards, he is collected, cordial and as expressionless as a wall of ice. It has been a long day.

"A description of. The half elf. Is not the way. To find him. I would suggest. That instead. You make a list of all the half elves. Currently or recently in Sandpoint. And question them. Accordingly."

After the procedure is over, Sirus will get back to his room in the Rusty Dragon Inn, loot bag in tow. It seems that there will be the second point of meeting. He makes sure Rico knows that he is staying there.

Too late, he remembers that that the forward young nobleman Foxglove also lives there.

[Miraqariftsky]

"Uy" Rico mutters in reply at Nim's self-deprecation. "So y'weren't the one who did that ra'r remarkable graffiti on the restroom wall? Still, eh, good effort."

Closing up shop with now-inkstained hands, she makes a final supplemental scribble in her notebook before tucking it back into her pocket, Sirus? What is HIS angle? Sometimes, some people can be TOO charitable or TOO competent.
Or am I simply being paranoid? Little leads on the MAYBE elfblooded mastermind. Shalelu might be able to help. That Tander might be worth looking into as well. Scratch... Desna's damnation, Sandpoint's too good a town. Who of these buggers has likely MOTIVE?

Fingers massaging the bridge of her nose, Rico turns to Sirus and says, "One, it's procedure. If somebody offers a description, that is taken into evidence as well. Admittedly, not very good evidence as "pointy-eared, long-haired, cloak-wearing, bow-toting" frigger fits the vast friggen majority of elfbloods. Frak the lot."

She favours the pugilist with a momentary smirk as she flips her handy notebook out, then shoves it back into her coat's interior breast-pocket. "Already done. All resident or recent arrival elfbloods who actually match the description you and Ms Setsuna over there gleaned from yer interrogation AND have previous relevant records, they're here. Questioning them, we'll hafta find them first."

"Officers?" Rico asks once again in a mockingly sweet voice since she is still technically off-duty. "Could I please have the latest report on the last known location and situation of the ranger Shalelu and the alchemist Tander? For the record, your honour, still classified as 'lead', not yet as 'suspect'."

Rico then nods at Cipriano, descends into the dungeon and shortly thereafter returns with his mess of ropes. "Thanks for the loan and the help, Father Cipriano. Sorry 'bout the damage. Annnnnd they're now officially chained, awaiting further interrogation and execution preparations."

The halforc constable then grunts over at Red and Setsuna and says, "Ladies. Thanks fer yer 'elp an' cooperation. EHEM. Iz anythin' seemin' ta be a problem?"

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

"...She's wearing... a kapenia," Red volunteers, canting her head to one side in curiosity without taking her eyes off Setsuna. "...She needs to wear... something else. Before the owner comes... looking."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Not realizing that she was being quite so obvious, Setsuna just blinks in surprise as Red draws her attention, "Oh, yes, I am fine, there is just something on my mind," seeing that Rico, Sirus, and Cipriano are right there she opts not to explain that any further, but whispers to Red "I desire to talk with you in private, soon."


~~~

After Nim does his best to sketch the figure as Setsuna describes it, she confirms what was already said, "Rico-san is correct, it is a good effort, and it may yet prove to be of use at some point."

After the drawing is complete, she remains mostly silent, thinking about both Red and the elf behind the attack when Red mentions her scarf being a problem. She blushes again as Red stares at her and attention is drawn to her lack of dress, "I am wearing a what? I thought this was just a scarf, admittedly well-made, but why would anyone worry about it?" And if I lose this I won't be able to show my face at all, it's hard enough pretending to be alright with just this, she finishes mentally.

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv grins at Ameiko, "They went to drop off the goblins at the gaol, I expect they'll be coming in later. You say Katrine hasn't showed yet? I should go check on her, she must have been so frightened all alone in the goblin attack..."
Mandraiv ignores his cousin's protests, and leaves to go find Katrine. Guess I'll make sure she's alright, then go and find those others. We could all use a little fun after all that.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red is utterly perplexed by Setsuna's request to talk in private. She'd only just met her - what on earth could there be to talk about? Still, surely there was no harm in just talking. Or did Setsuna have something else in mind?

Despite her misgivings, she nods her acceptance. "... All right. Later."

*****

"Kapenia," explains Red patiently. "... Varisian family scarf. It is a sign that... you are... no longer a child. You wear it to be married, you wear it to die. Not to be... given away. The design is special... you can see the whole bloodline - where you came from. All the people."

She lightly traces with her finger the intricate loops and whorls of the one that Setsuna with wearing along the tiefling's back. Red had never owned a kapenia - not with her family being what it was and with her mother dead. What did that make her then? Still a child?

EDITED: italicised portion added to clarify that there is no inappropriate and public touching going on between Red and Setsuna.

[Miraqariftsky]

Looming over the pair, Rico nods and grunts in agreement, saying, "Wot she said. Itsch right. 'Msure they'd understand emergency use, but if ye keep on wearin' that, I... um, the Wotch'll hafta arrest ye fer Theft."

"Arright, 'scuse me, while I wrangle up a solution..." Rico rumbles, holding up a finger. She ambles behind the filing cabinets. From behind their bulk could be heard sounds of grunting and ripping.

She returns shortly thereafter, greatcoat buttoned down to the last hole, the coat's opening adjusted just so-and-so for the joint considerations of practicality and modesty. She returns her dagger to its backslung sheath and tosses the now-bundled, now-slashed from waist to hem. Rico points from that to the kapenia that Setsuna's presently wearing. "One silver's worth of material and service. Countless generations' worth of heritage. Ye savvy?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna nods, smiling lightly and tries to focus more on the goblin issue, putting Red's troubles in the back of her mind for now.

~~~

Setsuna looks terrified as Red explains the kapenia, even as she blushes deeper at Red tracing the swirls she's realizing how important such a thing would be to whomever it belonged to and looks torn on what to do until Rico emerges with her "solution" of an altered greatcoat skirt.

Letting out a light sigh of apprehension, I got lucky with this 'kapenia' maybe I'll get the same results with this skirt?, Setsuna looks up to Rico, "Is there a place here that I can get a modicum of privacy to change?"

[Miraqariftsky]

"Duck behind the filing cabinet?" Rico retorts, scratching herself behind the ear. "Or restroom. Probably filthy, though."

Out flips the notebook once more. Out she scratches, Kapenia, lost and found. By Setsuna, pro tem used as bosom-wrap / sarashi / whatever they call it. Might be a better idea than standard armoured corselet. Better support? Maybe? Crap protection, though.

[Desril]

Setsuna gets up and moves to hide behind the filing cabinet with the skirt in hand. Once confirming that she's safely out of sight, she removes the kapenia and swiftly tries to wrap the skirt around her yet again bare chest, Well, it hasn't been destroyed yet, maybe it won't be, maybe the curse burnt out?

Once it's sufficiently tight, Setsuna ties the skirt to make sure it won't just fall off, "Thank you Rico-san, this should do for now, thankfully I seem to have finally escaped my curse, maybe I can get a proper shirt in the morning."

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico's nostrils flare as she glares silently at the demon-girl. Mother of asswankering hell, ye've gotta be jestin' me. Desna's damnation, bosom-burning curses, what sort of petty god or wizard-frigger would...

...Ironballs' ilk. Tch. Frakkers. Tsk, figures.

She sighs as she takes the kapenia from her and hands it to Halast, saying, "Officer, please file under Lost and Found, top box. Last known location, plaza, atwixt cathedral and the Rusty Dragon. Thank you for your oh so valuable service."

"Hrhmm. Aye, speaking of which..." she adds to Red and the others, pocketing her notebook, "...I do believe we're expected at the Rusty Dragon. Ladies an' gents, shall we?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"I don't think you should worry too much, Miss Setsuna. If anything, whoever lost the kapenia will probably be grateful for you finding it for them", Cipriano spoke up after listening to the exchange between the two women, Red explaining the significance of such a sash. The young man did, however, feel a twinge of guilt... He had not worn his own sash for some time now, not since his grandmother had died. He was half-Chelaxian, yes, but the dear old woman had still insisted that her grandson be given one when he was old enough to shave.

He really needed to wear that piece of his ancestry more often. One silver's worth of material and service. Countless generations' worth of heritage. Rico truly had the right of it.

"And yes, I'm ready to go when you are. If you need some spare clothes, Miss Setsuna, I think I have a shirt or two I could spare. Nothing fancy, though... unless you insist on taking up my ceremonial garb", the young man laughed.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus


Sirus watches the discussion in his usual detached way. At the conversation over clothing, his left eyebrow rises.

"I am sure. Mrs Setsune. Has more clothes. Somewhere in town. Otherwise. I will gladly persuade. A local merchant. To give her. A discount.

But let us. Proceed. To the Inn. I think these. Acquisitions. Need to be. Split. Among all the parties. Involved.

And a meal. And a bath. Are probably. In order"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna smirks at Sirus' comment, Mrs.? do I look wed? "Please, all of you, just 'Setsuna' will be fine. We have all fought together, that is enough to dispense with formalities. And unfortunately, I do not, I exhausted my changes of clothes months ago. My sarashi will return in the morning however, so there is no need to cheat a merchant out of coin," adding silently, I've endured this long, I can last a little longer until I can be properly dressed without harming anyone's livelihood, "let us just be off. I think all of us could use a good meal and a bath to get the stench of goblin off..."

[Miraqariftsky]

"Unlawful intimidation, least sentence, indentured service, one fortnight." Rico recites and then nods as she intones as she leans on the doorframe, "Sometimes, 'tdepends on who ye be an' where yer come from. Some folk... Holds true fer some folk that 'The blood betwixt comrades is thicker than the water of the womb'."

Hand massaging her temple, she walks back, takes another parchment and scratches out,

To: Sheriff Hemlock
From: Constable Rico, off-duty
Subject: Report and Request/s and Recommendation/s
On: 22 Rova, 4707

Mi Capitan, I trust all is well?

Please check with Halast and Nim for the preliminary paperwork on today's unfortunate incident of a goblin raid and suspected traitor. The goblin POWs have been clapped in irons as of last count under Vachedi's care, awaiting more extensive interrogation and summary execution.

Hereby request permission to be fully reinstated, allowed full access to armouries and archives, as well as access to the prisoners. Sir. I let Il Maestro symbolically rejoin his family with a burial at sea, as per his will. I feel that he would not have wanted me to be sitting idle.

In line with that, I hereby ask your veteran opinion--- Of Sandpoint's elfbloods, who do you think, objectively, has motive, means and opportunity to have perpetrated this atrocity? At least for the time being if not as a permanent measure depending on how the situation develops, I recommend as well that the Watch's members be doubled or tripled for security's sake. I recommend as well that we upgrade standard issue armament--- up to scale or chain from the current leathers; replace the halberds with shields and spears and issue bows and crossbows. We should have as well a dedicated special response group--- good fighters, fast runners, able riders to be able to more quickly and efficiently put down such threats when they come. Maybe even recruit one or two TRUSTworthy magick-users.

Thank you once again for taking me in that night almost ten years ago.
Yours in law, faith and blood,
~Enforcer Rico

She commends the missive to Halast, nodding her thanks.

Rico then sighs, scowls and looks away into the depths of the night. Without looking back, she says aloud while walking down the station's steps, "I bid y'all good eve, officers. Red, Flash, Fox, Fist, coming?"

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Mandraiv

Leaving your cousin behind, you push through the thronged citizens and head up Water Street towards the Vinder's General Store, keeping a sharp eye out for Katrine's dark chesnut curls.

You arrive at the General Store to find it as you left it - closed for the festival and the front door locked. It seems to have emerged from the goblin attack unscathed, without as much as a broken window, which means that the goblins definitely didn't get this far south while attacking. There was no way they'd have been able to resist Mrs Vinder's homemade pies, which are prominently displayed in the front window alongside the furniture and tack and other sundries sold there.

Much to your luck, Katrine's protective papa doesn't seem to be around and you manage to find Katrine without much difficulty, standing in the shadow of the local school just opposite the store. She is not alone, however. Banny Harker, one of the operators at the lumber mill, stands protectively next to Katrine with one arm around her. Upon spotting you, his thin faces breaks into a smile and he waves in greeting, "Hullo Mandraiv! Crazy evening, ain't it? Ibor was just telling me how you were casting some mumbo jumbo spell 'gainst those gobbos up at the square. That's insane, man. I don't know how you can stand to go up against those little buggers. They freak the hell outta me."

Katrine merely mouths "h-e-l-l-o" at you, colours up, and snuggles a little closer into Harker's arms. At least she has the decency to look faintly apologetic.

*****

Everybody Else

Nim looks uncharacteristically thoughtful at Rico's question, scratching his neck noisily. "Shalelu? She was in town a month or so ago for her usual. Left in a tearing hurry though. Didn't say why. Ole Nisk's still squatting in his little store 'long Raven Street. Had a report written up against him just last week - 'parently he sold Cracktooth some soothe syrup before Cracktooth went down to the Hagfish to try drinking some o' Norah's tank water."

At this, Halast chortles and slaps his thigh, placing Rico's message to Hemlock on the table before cutting in. "Heh. Cracktooth was busy puking up his guts for the next couple of hours, that idiot! So he tried to have the boss bring Nisk in. Only that the boss said that anyone stupid enou' to slurp that filthy water probably deserved to get sick, soothe syrup or no, and told Cracktooth to quit his whining." The watchmen rocks back and forth with glee.

There is little more for any of you to do at the Garrison and Hemlock doesn't look set to be back any time soon. Sirus' suggestion of a bath and meal and some loot division sounds quite agreeable, so you all bid goodbye to the watchmen before heading to the Rusty Dragon to look for Mandraiv, with Halast and Vachedi shouting out the door to say hello to Ameiko for them.

Optional:
Roll Perception DC 8 to spot Mandraiv and Katrine and Harker outside Turandarok Academy on Main Street on your way to the Rusty Dragon. If not, assume that you missed each other in the streets.

While passing through the marketplace, you are hailed by none other than Ameiko Kaijitsu herself, the spunky barkeep and owner of the Rusty Dragon. She weaves easily through the crowd towards your group, flashing Rico a rougish grin and giving the half-orc a friendly pat on the shoulder. "Rico! I hear we have you to thank for the latest trend in improvised weaponry. I don't suppose you still have my table with you? And these are the others who helped to fend the goblins off?"

Turning to the rest of you, Ameiko recognises Sirus and Red instantly. "Hey little one," she says cheerily, ruffling up Red's hair while Red gently touches her other hand to her forehead in greeting. "Wasn't expecting to see you here this time of year. I take it you came to see Rico?"

At Red's confirmation nod, Ameiko smiles and shifts her attention to Sirus. "And... Mister Scarletti," she says with impressive gravitas, shaking his hand. "I suppose you're the one who saved Mister Foxglove? I guessed it was probably you, based on the description. Couldn't think of anybody who'd just gotten into town likely to be bashing goblins with his bare fists."

"Now. I don't think we've met before - mysterious gentleman and mysterious lady." She looks Cipriano and Setsuna up and down, giving Setsuna's katana a cursory glance before offering her hand, her dark brown eyes warm with curiosity. "I'm Ameiko. Thank you for saving my town. And you are?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

"Flash" huh? It has a nice sound to it...

Forgoing the perception check, Setsuna's mind is on other things.

After reaching the Rusty Dragon and hearing Ameiko's greeting Setsuna stops holding her breath, I guess she's always been in Varisia, it probably won't seem rude if I only reveal my given name, it's all she gave after all.

She takes Ameiko's hand in her own giving it a friendly, if brief, shake, "I am Setsuna, and think nothing of it, it is what any armed person would have done. It is not as if I made a significant difference anyway," with a glance to the rest of the group she continues, "everyone here proved more than capable of handling the beasts and the Watch still did the dragon's share of the work."

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus seems oblivious to the fact that he got doubly misunderstood. Calmly, rigidly and with his hands tied in front of him, he walks towards the inn. He only bows politely when Setsune exclaims there is no need for formality.

As they pass Mandraiv (Take ten Perception), Sirus slows down and waits for Mandraiv to catch his eyes. He then nods at the bag.

"Some of these, is. I believe. Yours."

When Ameiko comes out to greet them, Sirus stares impassively at the second hand account of his involvement in the recent events.

For some reason, my fists are always the focus of the attention. Strange. Today, though, I used mostly kicks.


"I am. Sirus Skerlati. Of Taldan. Pleased to meet you. Ms. Ameiko. Mr Foxglove. Has a. Specific. Take. On the recent. Events. A not. Entirely. Accurate. One.

We were. On our way. To taste. Your famous. Hospitality."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Usually adverse to having her head touched by others, Red remains calm despite Ameiko's earnest hair tousle. She liked Ameiko. Ameiko was fun. She was pretty. And she'd been really really nice about the time Red had started a drunken brawl with Rico in the bar area. (Even if she'd made Red work off the cost of the damages for the next couple of weeks - that was only fair, after all.)

All the same, she can't help but suppress a giggle at Sirus' description of Aldern Foxglove. 'Specific take' was putting it mildly.

[Miraqariftsky]

Well, well, well. Hurrying, was she? When does a ranger ever hurry? Note to self: Look into Shalelu and/or Tander. Rico muses as she drifts to the group's back, wolvish ears and flared nose and straining eyes unconsciously roving the scene around them, wary of any ambushes or anything out of the ordinary.

From her rearguard position, it also affords her a view of her companions' backsides... the relatively leaner holy men, one moving with a fighter's grace, the other moving with a swashbuckler's swagger; the voluptuous sway of somebody who might be Mistress Mila's new customer and the reserved yet cheerful stride of Red... Seems a decent bugger, as long as he avoids the more zealous parents around. If he isn't careful, might be having a contract on his head, or worse, for child-support. Seems decent, definitely a superb fighter... but what's his angle? Seems to want to help, and did so excellently, but what might he be hiding? Ditto for this Setsuna. Be ye alluring all ye care but both your silk and your steel are covering something, assuredly. And if any of you in any way hurt Red or Sandpoint, I will feed ye ta the feeshes...

Stupid girl. FOCUS. Concentrate. Desire my ARSE. Vengeance, my ARSE. There is ONLY Duty. Duty and Discipline. Back to the First Form, count the lot! A thousand strokes! BEGIN!

Along the way, Rico shakes herself from her reverie as she spots a familiar face--- there, Ironballs' bower-hopping apprentice. She makes eye contact with him, then jerks her head towards the Rusty Dragon in the distance.

She nods slowly in acknowledgement as Ameiko hails them, hand still in her pockets. She snorts warm breath into the cold night.

Frowning guiltily, Rico replies to Ameiko, "Sorreh 'bout that, Keep. I owes ye a table. Coupla days' work. Ye want it workshop-fresh or cobbled t'gether from the scraps of the old one?"

Once Ameiko touches upon Cipriano, Rico's hand shoots out, clouting the young cleric on the shoulder and she says through a smirk, "Decent frigger, once ye get past his friggin'. Father Fox Cipriano, didn't ye 'ave a certain Caydenite blessin' ta perform once we get to Keep Kaijitsu's establishment?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Foregoing the Perception check; Cipriano's a horny bugger, but he won't peep on others neckin' and flirtin'. :smalltongue:

If the young Caydenite had seemed positively queasy at being in gaol, the prospect of going to the inn seemed to immediately make him smile and pick up his pace. That's where he belonged, in the midst of laughter and song. The arrival of the quite appealing protrietress brought that much more of a smile on his face, and he was just about to offer a bow with all the grace of a cosmopolitan when Rico walloped him on the back. Luckily, not strongly enough to make him fall flat on his face, but enough to break his stride.

"The good constable has the right of it", Cipriano chuckled as he straightened himself and offered a polite nod to Ameiko as they continued towards the inn. "Father Cipriano Verneti, or Father Fox if you prefer, a servant of Cayden Cailean. At your service, Miss Kaijitsu. I intend to be staying in Sandpoint for a while, and am looking for a place to stay and hold services of the Drunken God. If you'll excuse me, however...", the young cleric said before whistling for a stable boy.

"Be a good lad and find my friend here a nice, warm place in the stables", he said when the lanky young boy ran up to him. The auburn-haired cleric handed Eunice's reins to the boy, rubbing the donkey behind his ear. "And if you groom her, see to the wound on her hide and carry my saddlebags inside, there will be a shining silver piece for each task waiting for you."

With that, Cipriano joined the others at the tavern door. "Nothing too ceremonial, I assure you. In fact, first of such services would be offering a pint of beer to everyone on me! For Cayden Cailean and for Sandpoint!" the young cleric called out the moment the tavern door opened, making sure that his voice carried over the usual hubbub of the busy common room. Not to mention made their entrance that much grander.

Just lemme know how much the stabling, the grooming and the round will cost in total for Cipriano :smallwink:

Also, I think this could count as an attempt to garner goodwill from both Ameiko and the locals, so Diplomacy? [roll0]

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv flashes a smile at the happy couple, "Well, you know how it is, wrong place, wrong time. I'm sure you'd have done the same. So, you're sein' Katrine now? Good on ya, man!" He throws a freindly punch at his shoulder. "You two shoulda told me! Well, if you ever need any help, let me know, okay?"

Seeing Sirus catch his eye, "Well, there goes my comrades-in-arms, I should go join them, you two should come by the inn, I'll be playing some of the night, and I'll try to get 'Meiko in as well."

He heads to the inn, and calls to his cousin, waving a couple of the village's musicians over. "Hey, 'Meiko, lets give these folks some music! How about something with blood and fire!" after a brief huddle with the other musicians, they break up and the drum starts pounding as Jokk Haraldson places bow to string, and the words of an old stirring war song fill the inn. After a couple slower songs, he breaks and heads over to his comrades. "Well, that was exhausting. Been thinking. We did pretty well together today, and someone needs to get to the bottom of this. Quite frankly, I'm not really the hero type, but someones got to do it, and it might as well be us. What do you say?"

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

"Rico, Rico. Do I want it workshop-fresh - what kind of question is that? Hells no! I want it cobbled! Even if all that's left is splinters." Ameiko's eyes light up with mischievous glee. "Can you imagine the kind of story that would go with that table? Everyone would want to sit at it. Cobble it. Make it so."

Listening patiently to Sirus, she smirks at his reserved description of Foxglove. "Yeah, tell me about it - he can be pretty intense sometimes, no? Don't mind him though. He seems a good fella, just eccentric. Generous with the tips and all."

When Setsuna protests her small part in the proceedings, Ameiko gives the tiefling a friendly nudge with her elbow and winks. "Come now. No need to be so modest," she says briskly. "There's plenty of folks around town who were asking me if I knew who the dark-eyed lady warrior with the Minkai sword was and if we were related. Hah! Frogs in the well, all of them, hey? And damn straight, you made a difference. Most people ran to save their skins, first thing. You ran to save others. I saw you. Don't stint yourself of that."

Having shaken Cipriano's hand, Ameiko places her hands on her hips, an amused look on her face. "A Caydenite, hey? We don't get too many of those around here. By all means, hold all the services you want. Just don't let the masses do their worshipping with their fists, all right? And give me a heads up if you're going to be tacking anything to my walls, just so I can tell my maid not to clear it up in the morning."

"In fact..." Ameiko looks up at all of you, her thumb resting on her lips as she thinks for a moment. "Tell you what. Free rooms at the Dragon for a week. For all of you. Anyone who wants it. It's the least I can do - I won't have the people who helped save my town sleeping in the streets tonight. We cool with that? Good. Now let's get on with what we were all doing before the goblins rudely interrupted us - drinking ourselves happy and celebrating!"

Ameiko clearly isn't used to taking no for an answer. Putting an arm around Setsuna and Cipriano, she herds all of you through the doors of the Rusty Dragon, joining in with the wild cheers that go up at Cipriano's announcement that he'll stand everyone a round of beer.

For a town just attacked by goblins, the patrons of the Rusty Dragon seem rather unfazed by the recent event. They were probably already intending to head to the tavern to continue celebrating the Swallowtail Festival after the cathedral blessing, and the victory has simply provided with them with yet more reason to drink. While Mandraiv and his fellow musicians play up a storm with their rousing music, the rest crowd and jostle good-naturedly at the bar for their drinks, many of them making crude jokes about goblins.

All of you (but especially Cipriano) are at some point roundly patted on the back and thanked for saving the town. It takes quite some time before all of you manage to obtain your own drinks and find a corner quiet enough for you to take a breath and enjoy your orders. And even then, someone keeps coming up to shake your hands every now and then.

Fortunately for Sirus, Aldern Foxglove is nowhere in sight. Perhaps the combined shock of losing his dog and finding a new hero was too much for him to handle in one day, and he retired to bed early?

As Mandraiv heads over to your table, Ameiko herself takes the stage with her samisen in hand to much applause, the haunting melody of her strings in the background as you all discuss what to do next.

*****

Cipriano now owes the Rusty Dragon 8 sp for stabling and care of Eunice. He also now owes the bar 1 gp and 4cp for 26 drinks.

Whoever wants a week's worth of free rooms at the Rusty Dragon now has it. Unless, of course, your PC has another place to sleep in mind or is already staying there for free.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Miss Kaijitsu, you've got yourself a deal", Cipriano said with a smile to the offers of setting up a shrine and the offer of hospitality for the week. "And I may indeed have something to nail to your wall. I'll let you know when I'm done penning it."

Say what you will of Father Cipriano of Magnimar, he proved himself a very devout Caydenite that evening. He didn't think twice about paying his tab, in fact he added upon it by throwing in a clipped Chelish gold piece in front of the bartender, telling the man to send something suitable for celebration to the table he and his comrades-at-arms had taken. He took his sweet time getting back to the table, joining in every bragging contest or throwing in bawdy joke or two about the goblins - or flirting with the barmaids.

"It's been a good day", he declared as he finally set his keister down. "Fighting, drinking, singing... and lovely ladies for company", he laughed as he winked playfully to the women in the party - even Rico. "Still, must not forget my duties. Think you could spare a page from that journal of yours, Rico? I need to write down something to stick in the wall..."

Before he could get an answer, the spellcaster who had given Rico her growth spurt appeared out of nowhere again. Cipriano took a drink from his pint and nodded. "It's true... we might as well try and figure this out. But not tonight, friend. Sit down and tell me, what was your name again? I don't think I caught it the last time we met."

Debt is covered right away, plus throw in 5sp for something to drink for the group. If a decent bottle of wine or a pitcher of hard cider costs more, lemme know.

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus watched the various festivities with the same impassive face he always has. The offer of Ameiko elicits a deep bow from the monk. Later on, he takes very small sips from his drink and at one time even pays for a round with his new found companions. It would take a very trained observer to see that part of the spring like tension hidden under the surface is now gone. A very well trained observer indeed.

"I was sent here. I was summoned here. Was that all? I do not think so. Or was it? was there a lesson here I did not see?"

But as the evening moves on, he relaxes inwardly a bit. What would be, would be. He would be ready.

As Cipriano and Mandraiv start talking, Sirus nods.

"You are. Both correct. I believe.
The troubles. Are not over. There will probably be. More. In the near future. But today. Everybody. Has earned. Their enjoyment.

And there is the question. Of this."

He points at the loot bag.

"Please see. If anyone. Wants anything. From here. Otherwise. Someone must see. That these are. Liquidated. And their worth. Split among us. Preferably. Someone the locals. Trust.

And. Ms Rico. I will gladly. Pay. For the table 's. Restoration. Myself. It was put. To good use."

The loot! And what is the cost for a round of drinks?

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Huh... didn't think those buggers had anything worth taking", Cipriano chuckled at the mention of loot. "Still, for the sake of argument, let's see what you got there, Sirus." With that, the young cleric opened the bag. But before he looked inside, he closed his eyes and mumbled a quick prayer.

Casting detect magic for any piece of enchanted gear. Otherwise, rolling Appraise: [roll0]

Also, correct me if I'm wrong but clerics essentially know all the spells in their spell list; they just have to pick the ones they use every day, right? I'm having a bit of an argument about that with the guy who plays the cleric in my meat space group.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna lowers her gaze out of humility as Ameiko argues that she did make a difference, it really wasn't much, they were just goblins... but she doesn't say anything more in response. She does look a bit relieved at the offer of a free room for a week, though, finally, I can get a nice room instead of sleeping on the grass.

She gladly takes the drink that Cipriano bought for her along with the rest of the crowd, not normally one for drinking but wanting to forget the exposure the goblins caused. A bit foolishly, she also takes the drink Sirus offers, and any others that may come her way that night, "Thank you both for the refreshments, Fox-san, Skerlati-san."

After Mandraiv approaches with his suggestion and Sirus and Cipriano agree she adds in, "I concur, I think we all work well together and could solve this goblin issue if we put our minds to it de gozaru." Once the loot is presented she can't help but look over it, I'd rather not handle any of this goblin filth, but I do need the gold...

Constitution check to see how well she holds her alcohol [roll0]

No idea what the DC would be on that...

Appraise check: (1d20+3)[13]

[Mithric Gunn]

"Yes, best to keep that for the morrow," Mandraiv says in answer, "I am Mandraiv Kaijitsu, apprentice to Master Wizard Rendark Ironballs. I'm currently undergoing what my master calls, 'reality training.' Mostly it seems to involve drinking and having people try to stick things in me. Rather fun, actually."

[Miraqariftsky]

Home. Rico snorts as the Rusty Dragon's doors flap behind her. The familiar scents of Ameiko's cooking, the sweat and smoke of the patrons, the barely-suppressed amalgamated aromas of ale and other brews...

One studded leather gauntlet caresses one of the tables they pass, the woodwork seeming newer than the rest. HEH. This, this was mine. Debt paid and done. Why DID you opt to go the long route with your damage payment, Red? HRHMM. Then again, who'm I to judge what you enjoy?

JUDGE? I am DAH Laaaaaahww! No. No, no I'm not. I am a SERVANT of the Law. What the hell...

Rico sinks into one of the stools at the bar with a grunt and a sigh. From the reflections on some of the bottles, she sees the silver-blonde, almond-eyed fairness of the minstrel Whisper. One corner of her mouth curls up in a snarl, her wolvish ears flattening to deny herself the sounds of the bard's song and strumming.

Yeah? YEAH? ...hrhhmmmm. Bugger. Set yerself straight, ye frigger. She's an ASSET. Could be an asset, you know how those bards are. Nosey. Always hearing things. Always poking into people's... business. Asset. ASSET. Asset, damnit.

She then raises one finger, and lets that hand thunk to the tabletop, then slaps Red's shoulder. "A tall one o' yer Dwarf Slayer, iffen ye please. An' a good dang 'elpin' o' wotever we've got cookin' presently. And a bath. On me tab. Ye know I'm good fer it. Red? Take my beers. I'm good with just the one. And I owe ye. And... sorry again."

Rico flashes a grin at Ameiko's words and she says, "Cobbled, then, Keep. Done afore noon on the morrow."

The thick orcblood arm shoots out again, clouting Setsuna's shoulder, then her fingers gesture a slash across her throat. "Friggen modesty. Keep, don't letter fool ye, mageslayer right there. Silenced their chanter jus' soon's the bugger began chantin', pretty as ye please then cuts down the bugger's bodyguard fer good measure."

At Sirus' offer, Rico returns the bow but shakes her head vehemently. "No-no, no an' fer good luck, NO. Thanks, but no. My fault's my fault. My mess, I clean. Or in this case, repair."

When Cipriano asks for a piece of paper, though, Rico hisses in alarm, then just as quickly calms down and fishes out a piece of scrap parchment that was clearly not torn from a book's binding.

She jabs a thumb at Mandraiv and snorts. "Yyyyyeah. Ironballs' longshanked stepson. Fun, my arse. Ye LIKE gettin' stabbed?"

Rico nods judiciously at Setsuna's comment and says, "Dassright. Got some people I... or we... could look into."

[Mithric Gunn]

"As my master used to say," Mandraiv lapses into a quite accurate thick dwarven accent, "'There's nae betta feelin' than to be stabbed at wi' nae result.'"

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Appraise checks do not reveal any magic items in the loot pile.

Setsuna is doing quite well so far with regards to alcohol consumption.

Loots


1 potion of Cure Moderate Wounds - in Red's pocket
1 potion of Cure Light Wounds
1 masterwork horsechopper - broken in half by Rico
2 shortbows
2 quivers with 20 arrows each
2 studded leather armour (small)
7 leather armour (small)
8 dogslicers
1 whip
20 gp

*****

Red

CON check for drunkeness:
(1d20+2)[17]

Red pricks up her ears at Rico's mention of drinks. A Dwarf Slayer after all those drinks this afternoon sounded dangerous - she'd have to make sure Rico got home safely afterwards. But all the same, if Rico wasn't going to have the drinks that Cipriano was so kindly paying for...

"...All right. Thank you," she says politely, dragging Rico's untouched pints of beer and servings of wine towards her. She wasn't sure if she had room inside her for all those drinks, but there was only one way to find out.

Picking up the beers, she downed both of them in rapid succession. Then taking a sip of the wine, she made a face. The tastes did not go together at all. Better to drink this one slowly.

"...Rico... would we be allowed... to help? You're not... on duty now," she says somewhat anxiously, keeping an eye on the amount that the half-orcess was drinking. Red didn't know the man that Rico called Maestro all that well. But she knew that Rico missed him. That much was plain to see. And nobody ever stopped missing someone else that they cared about in just a week.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"I have the pleasure of telling you, friends, that what we have here is the most prominent, most exhilarating... pile of common goods I've ever laid eyes on", Cipriano said with a chuckle as he finished digging through the various odds and ends with Setsuna. "That horsechopper might fetch some coin if its shaft is replaced. The blade itself?"

Cipriano demonstrated by picking up the shortened shaft and then chopping the wicked-looking blade deep into the table. "Good steel. Probably used to be some sellsword's tool of the trade before the goblins modified it."

"Other than that, the potions are useful to us. The rest... well, unless you want to give some children some real armor when they're playing guards 'n' brigands, we might as well sell them. Maybe there's some halfling or gnome who could use 'em. The whip... well, that's more of a Calistrian kink", he laughed.

Rico's hiss at him, however, took the laughter out of his voice and expression. "I... I'm sorry, Rico. I meant no offense. I thought it was a sketchbook for keeping records and notes while you were on duty. I didn't know it was more than that", the Magnimarian apologized, clearly meaning what he said. He had intended no offence, especially when he and the ferocious half-orc seemed to have started to get along. Well, get along better anyway... better than the last time, when she clobbered him on the head while running from the threat of a paternal beating. Or worse, a crossbow wedding.

Let's see how well Cipriano holds his liquor... [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

One of Rico's thick black brows rises in momentary worry and she grunts at Red, "Careful. Ye might do ta wait fer the food ta better hold yer liq. Technically, yer right, Red... but I did put in a request fer reinstatement earlier. Besides, somebody needs to watch these folk..."

Meanwhile, she sets to sipping her tall tankard of Dwarf Slayer, a concoction infamous for putting even dwarves under the table. No sense in wasting a good drink with haste. She inhales the heady aroma, then takes the first swallow. It goes down smooth as beer, thick as brandy and with the kick of vodka. Slowly smiling, she takes another swallow, snatches a fistful of honey-roasted salted-and-garlicked peanuts from the large bowl in the middle of the table and gets crunching.

When the food finally arrives, Rico gnashes and mashes her thanks at the server, shoves the various plates at her respective companions. She wolfs down the spiced potatoes and curried salmon, her nostrils as wide as her grin as she washes the lot down with yet more swigs of the Dwarf Slayer, then leans back with a horrendous belly-patting belch.

When Cipriano attacks the table and pronounces the weapon's worthiness, Rico seizes the goblin weapon and easily breaks the remaining shaft off, tossing the broken bits into Ameiko's fireplace. She growls, "Yeah? Git this piece o' pig iron tah Grom 'Ammerand first. Didju e'er realash whah goblin an' orcblood weapons're this ass-jagged by tradition? 'Tso dey RIP when they cut. Tch."

For a long time, she sinks into silence, slumping over her empty plate, leaning heavily on her crossed arms and chest, haunted eyes staring emptily at Red across the table. Slowly, she takes another long swig of the Dwarf Slayer. Fully half of the formidable brew has been drained when she sets it back down.

Black hair flies as she shakes her head up at the young priest when he apologizes. "Aye, 'smore'n that. Work amttersh an' pershnal. Dun warreh."

Suddenly, she stands, swaying. Something not quite right shines in her eyes. She lunges for Cipriano, misses and gouges a chunk out of the pillar behind him. She then grabs his shirtfront--- tabard, armour and tunic in an iron grip--- and hauls him to his feet. Rancid breath blasts him in the face as she growls, "Nrrraahuuaarrrgghh... You. Me. Bed. Now. Or I maek yuuuu intah feesh bait..."

With no more ado, she heaves him up onto one shoulder like he were a sack of potatoes... or a wriggling pig... and stomps off to her room in the Rusty's basement...

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Hey now, wait just a cotton-picking minute!" Cipriano protested with a laugh, but not before looking like he had just taken a peek into the flaming maw of Hell itself - which probably isn't too far from the aroma wafting out of Rico's mouth after that formidable concoction. The next cotton-picking second, however, found him hoisted on the half-orc's shoulders like a sack of potatoes.

"Oh you want to dance, Rico? Sure, let's have at it", he chuckled, trying to make the most of the situation. The lean man tried to flex his body and slide down Rico's back, to switch his position from the grappled to the grappler. "Ain't no fun without foreplay", the young man laughed.

Combat Maneuver check! [roll0]

Maybe it was because Rico was obviously more drunk than a battalion of dwarven brewers on midsummer, but somehow the much slighter Cipriano managed to switch positions. Dropping his feet on the floor, Cipriano locked his arms around Rico's midriff as he stood behind her. "Come on, then. Show me how much you want it", the young cleric laughed, no malice in his voice. Granted, he'd never been with a half-orc, but the idea was not appauling to him. What he resisted was the idea of being lugged around like a sack of potatoes. He intended to make Rico work for her prize.

And if she preferred wrestling instead of a few more drinks, so much the better.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Glad to have another chance to try eating Ameiko's spiced curry again without the nervousness that impaired her stomach during the earlier part of the festival, Setsuna quietly thanks the chef for the meal in Minkainian once it arrives and Rico passes it to her.

As she eats and gets about half-way through her second drink, she starts to smile slightly and looks completely relaxed in spite of Cipriano's attack on the table, and hearing Red's question and Rico's answer she replies, "What? The two of you have to stay with us, I would be the only girl if you both left and I want to get to know everyone, not just the men."

After a few more moments she turns her gaze to Cipriano, "I'm curious, just how did you get the name 'Father Fox', Fox-san?" Before she can get the words completely out however, she's cut off by Rico's command to Cipriano and blushes Oh my, how direct.

Con check round 2 [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

And slide he does, wriggling like an eel. The primordial brute gropes at her shoulder, finds nothing and whirls, one arm already grasping, the other stroke already kicking a nearby empty chair to bring her fleeing prey down...


Once more unto the breach, yeh friggers!
[roll0] <--- AoO! (cestus-bound, so, technically armed).
[roll]1d20+WEEENG

Str check, on Rage. [roll1]
Annnnnd some more grapple. [roll2] [roll3]

...only for another piece of carpentry to be scheduled for the coming day/s as it carooms and crashes into a corner.

Gaddemmet, yeh fool frigger. Don't make this any harder on yerself. ARGH, damn my pride. Committed now, though...

Feeling arms wrap around her middle, she merely flexes her biceps to burst his bonds, then tries to seize him up unto her bosom, growling, "talky man shaaahhhdddaaappp"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Noticing that Rico had started raging, Cipriano decided to focus on staying out of her grasp instead of starting a bar fight. Heck, one punch from the half-orcess and he'd be out for the count! Quickly ducking her arms, Cipriano rolled to the left. He knew the outcome of this 'fight'; Rico had the strength advantage on him, and his lamellar was weighing him down.

Still, it made his blood pump faster, and his initial horror at Rico's breath was being replaced with the surge of adrenaline one got from a good brawl... of the martial or the amorous kind.

"Make me, warmaiden!" Cipriano laughed as he continued their dance. Remembering some of the tricks he had seen Sirus use when he was training, he tried - clumsily - to sweep Rico off her feet.

Let's see if she's about to get tripped :smallwink: [roll0]

[Miraqariftsky]

The plot had fallen asmithers. She should have gone with straightforwardness, damn the EARS, damn the ears.

But the fight is afoot. The low leg kick almost has her and she sways dangerously, then plants her feet firmly.

"HRRAAAAAHRRGHGLRGHE!"

Fast losing patience, Rico rips her greatcoat free, buttons spraying like shrapnel and whirls it aloft as if it were a leather-wrought heavy flail... or net. She crooks one finger and smirks in a mockery of a "come hither". Beneath, she seems to be clad in a warrior's standard gambeson and chainshirt, but with the dangerously short hem of an undertunic below.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

I'm assuming that at some point earlier in the evening, Red dumped her backpack in one of Ameiko's rooms.


Red blinks owlishly in surprise as Rico lunges for Cipriano and then drags him off over her shoulder, watching the scene unfold with furrowed brows.

Well, that was something new. Rico wasn't usually so... forward. She'd have to drop by Rico's room later, just to make sure everything was all right. Something was definitely off, though now was perhaps not the best time to do something about it, given how drunk her friend was. After all, Rico had always been respectful of Red that way, when Red was brave enough to ask the same of another woman.

Either way, this wasn't really something she wanted to see. Sighing quietly to herself, she pushes her half-finished plate of food away and gets to her feet. "Mister Sirus... I can show you tomorrow... where to sell those." She angles her head towards the loot pile. "I'm going outside... for a while. Clear my head. ...See you later. Maybe tomorrow."

Bowing slightly at the rest of her companions, Red picks up an untouched bread roll and her empty cup before excusing herself from the table. Pausing at the bar to get the serving girl to fill it up with water, she carefully wends her way through the crowd, doing her best to ignore the thump of crashing furniture and the peels of raucous laughter from behind her.

Oh, Rico. I just hope you know what you're doing...

She elbows the front doors of the Rusty Dragon open and takes a deep breath of the air outside - slightly cool, refreshingly free of smoke, and with a faint trace of the sea that reached the back of her tongue. Letting the heavy doors fall shut of their own weight behind her, she takes a seat on one of the oaken benches outside and places her cup of water next to her, all the while continuing to breathe deep and fill her lungs with the bracing night air, her eyes half-lidded in silent pleasure. From behind her, the roars of the tavern crowd dulls to a mere rumble through the walls, the sounds easily drowned out by the sharp click of horse hooves on cobblestone and the swirling rustle of leaves on the street.

Sometimes the simple stuff really was best. She missed that about life at the monastery. Plain food. Plain water. Plain people. Going back into the world outside after Rathi had died had been a little like getting burned by the sun after a long comforting winter.

Red took a small bite of the bread roll and chewed it thoughtfully, looking up at the clear sky and the few gleaming constellations that she could recognise.

She hadn't been intending to stay in Sandpoint for long - only for as long as it took to make sure Rico was all right. But Rico had seemed so happy defending her town and doing her Watch work. Maybe that would be the way to help her feel less sad about Maestro. Sometimes you just had to do things in order to heal; Rathi had shown her that. Besides, it wasn't as though she could just up and leave Sandpoint at a time like this.

It looked as though she was going to have to stay in Sandpoint a little longer than expected.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Noticing that the arms were out now, Cipriano grinned and pulled out his rapier and light mace. For a brief second it looked like he was going to make the common room of the Rusty Dragon Inn a gladiators' fighting pit... but then he dropped his weapons on the ground.

"I yield", the young cleric said as he unbuckled his weapons belt with its pouches, bottles and daggers, and placed it down as well. "But next time, you only need to ask", he said with grin as he lifted his arms. He was pleased with the situation as it was; he looked forward to what was going to happen next, and he'd established he was not a pushover. Hopefully this might make it less weird in the morning once Rico sobered up, too.

[Miraqariftsky]

The hissing metal-weighted hems of the greatcoat stop whirling as Rico's arms slump, almost disappointed, but secretly relieved. She juts her jaw towards the basement staircase, grunts and glares at Cipriano...

...then stomps and glares at the crowd. "Hwut? Hwutchu lookin' at, friggers? Get on! An' NOBODY loots DIS."

Satisfied, she stomps after him, then takes the lead at the base of the stairs, now going only by lamplight. She fumbles for the key to one of the doors, numbered 44 and with a large Z scratched down the middle.

Inside, the vague form of racks and a bed could barely be seen from the ambient lamplight in the corridor and the bare, cloudy moonlight from a small, singular window--- soon enough closed off as Rico kicks the door. Cipriano hears the clink of a key landing on a wooden table and then the clicking of a flintknocker. A taper is lit, then a lamp...

...showing a wall filled with swords, axes, fighting sticks, chains and whips. Beside the large bed, there stands a table that could either be a chirurgeon's evisceration table or a writer's desk.

The greatcoat flaps onto one of the rack's many pegs and Rico unclasps her hauburgeon as well, then the gambeson beneath, hanging up the armour too. She then peels off her undertunic and throws it at Cipriano.

Now clad in just a reinforced corselet and without all the other clothing and armour, he sees that she does have a decent amount of filling from being a hard-eater and hard-drinker, padding out her fighter's musculature. Rico kicks open a cabinet, fishes out a water jug and two clay cups, tossing one to Cipriano. She pours him a measure of clean water, then gargles and spits her water into the copper pot in the far corner.

"FPWEH! 'Slayer's a bitch, ain't it?"

Hand on hip, she then drinks another measure, letting some of the water wash over her, snorting and sighing in comfort. "Whatta day, eh?"

Setting the jug down, eyes never leaving his, Rico then kneels before Cipriano and says in a not-utterly-wasted tone of voice, "My apologies for that, Cipriano. Yer welcome fer not actually kissing ye, by the way. Did I say Slayer's horrid? Because it is. Wuhweredehwords... I come as a supplicant, Minister, and seek counsel and... maybe confession. Do I 'ave yer word that wot's said 'ere won't never get nowhere else?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Seeing that Cipriano is joking and that their little encounter isn't entirely unwelcome, Setsuna watches mirthfully, chuckling even as she blushes when Rico hauls the cleric into another room. It must be nice to have the courage to do something like that without being embarassed.

Noticing Red leave the tavern, she decides to try and talk to her now, despite Red's expressed desire to be alone and clear her head, since she's gone off alone and the alcohol Setsuna had imbibed impaired her already poor judgement. Once she squeezes past the crowd and gets outside away from the noise, she looks around for Red and once found, tries to see if the two of them are alone or if there's anyone lurking nearby.

Perception [roll0] - been drinking penalty?


Once she finds Red, Setsuna waves to her and approaches, "Red-san, I was hoping we could talk, and since everyone else is busy inside I thought perhaps now is a good time." Setsuna tries to sound both serious and concerned, though some of that is lost to the cheery nature that intoxication causes her.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"As the lady wishes", the dashing rake of a cleric answered with a wolfish grin as he walked towards the stairs, already loosening his belt and surcoat. On the way over he picked up an ale pitcher from one of the tables. "Thirsty work ahead", he joked as he made his way down the stairs...

...into the chambers that appeared to be a combination of an hermit's retreat and a martial academy's armory. Still, he would have been more surprised to find velvet sheets and paintings of unicorns, so he took the somewhat intimidating abode with stride.

What Cipriano didn't expect, however, was the sudden change in Rico's demeanor. "Wait, what?" the young cleric asked when the half-orc finished her request. He looked almost comical, standing there trying to figure this out, his hands undoing the bracers around his arms.

"So... all of that abovestairs? It was just a show to get me here?" he asked, somewhat incredulously - but then remembering to put his duty before his curiosity. "Cayden's balls, never mind that for now... of course. Of course anything you tell me as a supplicant stays between us and the gods."

With that, Cipriano coughed and tightened his bracers and belt again. He straightened his surcoat and pendant, the frothing alemug of the Accidental God shining on both. That done, he filled a cup with the ale he had brought from upstairs and placed it on the floor in front of Rico, then taking a knee before her so they were facing each other. He breathed in deeply, as if calming himself for a moment, then slowly breathed out and lifted his eyes to meet Rico's.

"If you wish for counsel, my friend, I will give it to you freely and without hesitation. As for confession, what sins you have committed are known to you and Cayden Cailean. He will not ask for declarations of regret, nor punishment of the soul or the flesh. I will pray with you, and if you feel the need for penance and atonement, we will find a way", the young cleric spoke surprisingly softly, a soft, soothing smile on his lips. "Let us pray."

Cayden, breaker of chains
Hear our prayers on this hour.
Lift the shackles of regret
that bind our hearts.
Shatter the cages of doubt
that imprison our souls.
Lift our spirits out of the darkness
so that we may see the light of day
and feel the soothing calm of the night.

Cayden, walker of many paths
Let the cup of our lives
be ever over-flowing.
Let the feast of life
never leave us hungry.
Guide us to walk free of bondage,
to fearlessly oppose the tyrant and the slaver,
so that the world will know freedom.

Cayden, in your name we pray.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Setsuna's Perception check:
You notice only a few citizens of Sandpoint in the street going about their business, given that it is getting late. Otherwise, the street outside the tavern is relatively quiet.


*****

Red

Red looks warily at Setsuna, concerned at the odd lilt in the tiefling's voice and slightly annoyed at being thus accosted. Nevertheless, she sighs and indicates the bench opposite her with a jerk of the head.

"...Yes. Miss Setsuna. You said you wished... to talk?" Red takes a sip of her water, eyeing Setsuna over the rim of the cup.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna sits down and looks at Red for a moment, How do I start? After a second she starts to speak, not drunk but just intoxicated enough to not stress about being overly delicate, "When we were trying to get information from those goblins earlier, I...saw something in you. You were hiding a great deal of anger, pain, and guilt. I do not think any of the others noticed, and I will not tell anyone about it, but...trying to lock all those feelings away will just end with them eating away at you from the inside, Red-san."

She pauses, not wanting to push too far and waits to see Red's reaction to this particular conversation. We only just met, so I don't expect her to trust me, but she needs to find someone before she drowns in all of that sorrow.

Bluff check required for the half-truth? [roll0]

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Dice rolls:
Sense Motive check vs Setsuna's Bluff: (1d20+6)[23]
Bluff check to disguise feelings: (1d20)[13]

Red says nothing at first, merely raising her head and taking another sip of her water, the hand grasping the cup trembling ever so slightly and slopping some of the water down her chin. Inside her chest, something constricts. Like there was wire around her heart being pulled tight, a fist being closed.

How did Setsuna know? Red hadn't said anything. Done anything. What did she mean that she had seen something? Maybe tieflings had magic powers or something. Or maybe it was some Minkai trick...

Nobody outside her family knew except for Rathi. She hadn't even told Rico. How did Setsuna...?

"...Miss Setsuna," she says finally, placing her cup down on the bench with just a little too much force. Taking a deep breath, she wipes her mouth and looks the tiefling right in the eye, her voice low and quiet. "...I believe this is... really none of your business."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Sense motive to oppose the bluff: [roll0]
It doesn't work on PCs but Diplomacy to defuse the situation [roll1]

Setsuna returns Red's gaze compassionately, trying to show that there isn't any ill intent before she responds, "No, it is not. I simply can not stand idly by when I see someone suffering though...especially when it is someone who I wish to become friends with," she continues with a sad smile, "I did not wish to upset you, but I saw no other way to try and help. Can you forgive me for overstepping like this?"

I hope I haven't gone too far, maybe I should stop here and talk to her again another time? But she may not give me another chance...

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

“…You wish… to help?” There is a bitter flash in Red’s eyes, despite the deadly calm in her voice. Reaching behind her back, she slides one of her kukris out of its leather scabbard and carefully places it on the table between her and Setsuna. The heavy blade makes a faint ringing sound as it meets the table, the polished aurochs horn handle gleaming cold in the moonlight.

“…Then we do not… speak of this again. Ever. You will…forget whatever… you saw.” Red breathes out heavily and looks away, one hand stroking the ivory rosary beads around her wrist. “I did not ask… for your help. I do not want it...”

[Desril]

Setsuna

Diplomacy[roll0] (oh yeah +1 from Alluring?)

Seeing the kukri, Setsuna thinks of her own black blade and the blood on her hands, and concedes to leave the subject alone for now, "If that is what you wish, I shall not mention it again, but if that is to be the case, then please think on what I have said." Again she tries to express the sincerity of her words, "You may not desire help, but that does not mean it is unneeded or unavailable."

Deciding it would be best to let the red head think in solitude, Setsuna gets up and starts back inside, intending to retire early after getting rid of the goblin stench with a nice bath.

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico grimaces in an awkward amalgamation of drunken, embarassed, guilty and enraged but sways on her knees, calms herself down enough to follow in the prayer. She'd never been one to strictly follow any one deity's doctrine, but given the alternatives she has, knows that this one probably has the least risk in immediate repercussions.

She smiles as the prayer reaches its climax, remembering all the other times, few and far between, that she'd gone in for counsel. Those long, quiet walks with Red. With Sister Seraphina at Solku with the... Sunny Sisterhood, during the hunt for Case 401, Akhbar al-Assad, Qadiran drug trafficker and she'd been forced to stay the week during a severe sandstorm.That one night of guts-spilling with Whisper...

...Rico grimaces again as her vision throbs and heat pounds within her. One hand rises to her temple to ease the pressure.

She lets one callused hand rest Cipriano's knee and hangs her head. For a long while, she kneels with him, simply still and silent, listing every so often as she combats the drunkenness...

~~~

…and come the morning when her warrior’s senses stir her awake, just around dawn, Rico suddenly recoils from Cipriano, bunching the blankets around her and nearly pulping his head with a massive fist that barely misses his face.

Her eyes are wide with panic and utterly confused barely restrained rage. One hand gropes at her qunt, her bush matted with blood and other bodily fluids. She pats around desperately, then rips free the backup dagger strapped to her thigh.

Naked steel glinting in the pale light, she jabbers, “HWAT DAH FRAK DIDJU DO, YEH FRAKKER?! Sarrehsrakkeh, HWAT did WE do?!”

Blade shivering, she keeps it and the blankets between herself and Cipriano, resheathing it only when she hurriedly throws on a tunic and her greatcoat. She stumbles out of the room, muttering a barely audible string of curses.

Once outside, her survival senses kick in and she =tries= to stick to the shadows. If she finds Ameiko or one of her servers already working, with wide eyes and a growl she demands the strongest pot of coffee the house has got and asks as well of Red’s whereabouts.

Rico looks for Red desperately and when she finally does find her, she engulfs her in a seemingly panicked, frightened embrace, muttering hurriedly, "GAHahgIgh!Pleasepleaseplease!Solongasweretogether PLEASE!=NEVER=!LemmetouchanothercuppaSlayer.Scared .SCARED."

A moment later she releases the little rogue and says, “Sorry-sorry! I… hope I didn’t hurt you? No ribs broken? Um-um… could we, um, I, do this in your room? Duntfeelsafeouthere…”

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus

Sirus spent the night listening to his companions talk, contributing little. He rarely if ever drunk alcohol , and today 's experiences reenforced his conviction. When Rico and Cipriano started their wrestling match, his left eyebrow shot up in surprise, the second time in one day. Usually, it took a whole year for him to get surprised twice.

Initially, he misunderstood their intentions for a friendly match. Unconsciously, he started analyzing their movements. Rico had strength and power, but she was not coordinated. Cipriano was slick, bit it was more luck than anything that he survived.

And then the real significance of the match came to his mind. Sirus almost shook his head. Such actions rarely resulted in anything good. This is why he himself was very careful on how he managed his basic desires. He knew they could not be denied, nor should they. But they must not be blindly indulged either. A fine balance. But tomorrow he would see how his companions fared.

As he was ready to go, Red and Setsune next to him had barred blades. A more cautious glance told him that no violence would be coming. Good.

With that, he bowed to his companions and went to his room. Tomorrow would be an interesting day. But as he climbed up, a part of him, the part that had nothing to do with the Whisperers, with the Taldan gangs, with the violence felt listless. There was a price to pay for such strict discipline. Leaving a very heavy sigh, Sirus stopped in the middle of the stairs, looked back at the festivities and continued up to his room. He would have to think on all this.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Day 2: 23 Rova, 4707

The Rusty Dragon is extraordinarily subdued this morning. It seems that last night's excitement and shenanigans wore Ameiko's patrons and guests out, and many of them are sleeping in. In fact, a fair number of them are still snoring away on the floor, having been much too drunk to make it home safely on their own. Ameiko herself, however, is far too excellent a tavern owner to be caught lying in herself. For her, it's business as usual in the kitchen - you never know when you might find some travellers in need of succor.

Those of you awake and ready to begin your day, you head downstairs to find an elderly halfling maid carefully stepping around prone bodies as she gives the dining tables a brisk scrubbing. Whatever's cooking in the kitchen, it smells delicious. There are only a few other early-risers around right now, blearily sipping hot coffee and working away on their various breakfasts. At least one of them gives you a respectful nod as you approach, recognising you as one of the heroes of last night.

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

The next morning, Cipriano woke back to reality with a screaming half-orc at his face and a dagger at his throat. Usually that would have meant that it was Oathday during the summer, but this time he was in a bed, the half-orc was a woman... and she was naked. Slowly, too slowly did Cipriano understand that maybe his understanding of the situation had been wrong.

"Rico, wait! It's not like that! In Cayden's name, I swear it..."

"...isn't", he whispered the last word when the door slammed shut heavily when Rico stormed out.

Congratulations. Now you truly done frakked up, he cursed himself as he sat there, alone on the messed up bed. Best practice as you preach, then. Make amends with her. AFTER she's done breaking a table or two.

Sometimes later, Cipriano emerged from the basement, his hair in disarray and his clothes thrown on. He retrieved his armaments from the bar and walked up to his room where his saddlebags were waiting. A quick wash, a change of clothes and an hour of prayers later, Cipriano re-emerged from his room. He was still feeling weighted down - not by his drinking as usually, but by a tinge of guilt. He'd need to talk to Rico...

But first, some breakfast. And some hair off the dog that bit him...

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red watches Setsuna go in stony silence, one hand still fidgeting with the rosary beads on her wrist, rubbing the round beads between thumb and finger in a semblance of prayer. It is not until the tiefling has retreated back into the Rusty Dragon that Red finally relaxes, her breath coming in a shuddering sigh and her shoulders slumping as she reaches out for the kukri, sliding it back into its scabbard with a smooth practised movement.

Maybe Setsuna did mean well. Maybe she didn't. But Red didn't know her. And Setsuna sure as hell didn't know Red. What in hell made her think that Red would be all right with her knowing stuff even Rico didn't know? Stuff Red hadn't even told her last girlfriend? Stuff that Red's siblings didn't dare to bring up in front of her? It really was none of Setsuna's goddamn business what Red's father had done to Red when her name had still been Sera.

On her way up to her room, Red pauses on the floor that she knows Rico is on, looking forlornly down the darkened corridor. Perhaps she ought to knock on the door, like she'd wanted to. Give Rico some water. Make sure that Cipriano wasn't doing anything Rico didn't want him to. But if they were really... busy... with each other, then it would be rude to interrupt.

Sighing heavily, Red continues to climb the stairs.

*****

The next day, Red has barely stepped back through the doors of the Rusty Dragon after running a few errands about town when she is swept up into Rico's rib-cracking embrace. Instinctively stiffening at the overwhelming combination of unwashed half-orc and beer breath, it takes her a good few seconds before she realises just what Rico is babbling about.

Once Rico sets her back down on the ground, Red massages her side and manages a weak grin, wheezing slightly. Her grin fades slightly when she sees the panicked and dishevelled state that Rico is in, however. Damn it all - so much for hoping that Rico had at least known what she was getting herself into last night.

"I'm fine... Don't worry. Here." She drops the key to her room into Rico's massive paw, patting her friend's arm and looking around to check that as few people as possible are paying any attention to them. "...Go up first. I need to get something... from the kitchen."

A few minutes later, balancing a large mug of steaming water in one hand and a blanket she'd begged off one of Ameiko's maids, Red nudges her room door open with one foot. Letting Rico have the room's only chair, Red sets the mug down on the window sill before tossing the blanket at Rico. Making sure the door is locked, she returns to the mug and removing a slim packet from her vest pocket, shakes its dried up contents into the mug. She frowns at the muddy colour that the water turns - maybe she ought to have asked the kitchen for a spoon as well? Too late for that though. She'd just have to let it steep on its own.

Leaving the drink where it is for now, Red steps over to the wash bucket and rinses out a clean rag, looking the half-orcess over with concern. She didn't want to assume the worst - from what the maids had told her earlier in the morning, Rico had seemed quite happy to take Cipriano to her room. But she didn't know if Rico had done anything like this before, and if Rico was so upset, maybe she hadn't... That still left Cipriano somewhere else in the inn to deal with later. Oh boy.

Shaking her head, Red moves over to Rico and offers her the wringed out rag. "...Are you hurting?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Setsuna opens her eyes after a good night's rest, thankfully not hungover but not wanting to move from the comfort of the bed. Not one for lazing however, a quick review yesterday's events, especially her rash use of the magic in her sarashi and ham-handed attempts at speaking to Red gave her the motivation to get up and review her grimoire in an attempt to put it out of her mind. As long as we are in town I won't need to start any fires, so I'll practice with something else today.


Arcane Pool IIII
Spells Prepared:
0: Ray of Frost, Detect Magic, Arcane Mark
1: Frostbite, Shield


An hour later, her memorization of the spells she can hold within her mind complete, Setsuna notices her sarashi has returned, mixed amongst her clothes, and gets dressed. Just in case the curse isn't quite gone, I'll test it at the end of the day, when I'm alone...until then, I need to see about repairing Rico-san's skirt... That thought in mind, she takes what's left of the skirt and proceeds out of her room, asking the nearest person for directions to a tailor.

[Miraqariftsky]

Her head still throbbing from the liquored hell-blast
Strange ache in a strange place
Shards of memory through her mind flutter fast
The panick on her face
Gives way to slow
And broken understanding
Nostrils flare at the strange drink's show
Then without knowing what, her friend just trusting
Drinks the lot in one good glug
And at the strange taste, coughs and spits vilely, forcibly sets the drained cup down
"Achin' where wun't no ache afore. An'... dis not coffee? Thanks anyway" says the lawdog thug
She scratches her black-maned crown
Whilst that dark brow furrows in slow-dawning comprehension
"Red... thank you. Now would you please help me conduct an inquisition?"

Rico squeezes the rag and scrubs her face to full painful wakefulness
Battle-fever pulses, eyes narrowing in a hunter's seeking
She storms out the door, scowl set, dagger bared
With a kick and a curse, into her room fared
She emerges full-clad, arms glinting
Tracks Cipriano down, does bless

The priest's table with a quivering Scarzni-etched arrow
Open on a fresh page, her journal she does throw
And a sturdy inkpot and quill as well
And makes plain with naked sword fell

~~~

Smirks humourless and says as she sits, "Red here's yer friendly torturer fer today, please maek yershelf at 'ome. Case 469, sapplemental entry three, reshtricted ackcess. Fer the record, yer mind's likely unmarred bah deh Slayer. This questioner requeshts..."

The face breaks into a grimace then a scowl and then a blush and then a table-gouging growl. "...woht dah frak 'appened lash naht?"

[Mithric Gunn]

Manraiv awakens early, glad he only sipped a drink. Looks like interesting times coming. Well, it can't all be sex and partying. He shakes himself, forcing himself into the ever-more-familiar habit: He pulls out his spellbook, and begins memorizing...
2 color spray
1 grease
1 enlarge person
Enchantment: Sleep
Standard cantrips
Oh, and below casting prestigitidigititadtion...

Finally finished, he cleans himself and his clothing with a brief spell, and heads down to get some breakfast.

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red sighs and yanks the arrow out of the table. Whatever it was Rico wanted out of the priest, throwing arrows at him first thing in the morning was not going to help.

"Mister Fox," she says gently, glancing at him. "I'm not... torturing. Just want to make sure... nobody kills anybody else. Yet. But I do not think... you will tell the truth... if I sit here and listen. This is something... how do you say... delicate?" She sighs and pinches the bridge of her nose. "Rico. If you need me... I will be over here."

Red retreats to a nearby table and sits on its edge, close enough to run over and prevent Cipriano from being throttled if Rico lost her temper. Or to kick him if he tried to run off without giving a good explantion. She did hope Cipriano wouldn't run. It would be a pity to kick him. He didn't seem to be that type of man.

Sighing again, she fishes a rather squashed half-eaten bacon and stale-bread roll combination out of her other pockets and gives it a thoughtful chew. It was a pretty good squashed bread thing. Ameiko had let her swipe some food in exchange for helping to get firewood in this morning. Not many innkeepers trusted Red that much. It was nice to know there was at least one inn in western Varisia where she could always find a room.

Red is still working on finishing off what's left of her breakfast, keeping a careful eye on the conversation between Cipriano and Rico, when the hairs on the back of her neck rise. Turning her head towards the stairs, Red's eyes narrow slightly at the sight of a certain tiefling.

"...Miss Setsuna," she says quietly, no malice in her voice as she looks away. "Good morning."

[Miraqariftsky]

Out of the corner of her eye, she watches Red walk away. "Aaaaaaaahhhrrrrrrggghh..." Rico groans as she slumps over the tabletop, headbutting her crossed arms repeatedly.

She snorts loudly, sheathes the sword and lets it hang by its strap from her chair's back. "I... parddly... emember... stuff. KSHNORT. She's right, y'know? Y'don't... smell... corrupt. Um... and... sorry 'bout almost killin' ye thrice. An' deh other stuff. Wot dah friggen frak 'app'd lashnight, eggzackly? Sumthin'-sumthin'--- ivvestigation? Don't spare nuthin'. I've taken a 'unnred lashin's an' still alive. Asmodeus' arse, whersh dat coffee? And iffen ye please, make it snappy--- ggggguuuuuuhhhh--- I've got tables ta cobble."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Getting to the main room, Setsuna spots Cipriano and Rico having a quiet discussion as she hears Red's greeting. "Good morning to you as well, Red-san." She looks sad for a moment as Red looks away, I guess she probably isn't too happy to see me, but approaches her anyway. "I do not suppose you know any tailors in town who will allow me to work for them as payment? I want to restore the skirt Rico-san gave me, but I am lacking in coin."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red considers for a moment the merits of ignoring Setsuna completely and continuing to eat. (It really was a very tasty bread thing. Was Setsuna even worth the interruption?) Then sighing to herself, she looks dully down at the last few bites of her breakfast before carefully placing the leftovers on a clean-looking bit of the table.

Too young. Lots of stupid things done last night. Worth staying angry for? And if she never tells... Does it matter?

"...Yes. Miss Rhyshinn. But Rico's clothing... comes from someone else. Missus Mila." Red folds her hands in her lap and looks sidelong at Setsuna. She hadn't noticed yesterday, with all the excitement and alcohol - just how young Setsuna looked, once you put aside the white hair and the woman's body. Gods, was she even old enough to be running around with vanishing clothing? "You could just... y'know. Work it off to Rico. Owe her a favour. She won't mind."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Oh, I didn't even consider that, that's a good idea, Setsuna beams at that, "Oh, thank you Red-san, I did not think of that. I can do that and once I obtain some coin I can buy her a new one from this 'Missus Mila'."

For a moment, she's unsure of what to do, but seeing that Rico is still involved in her private chat with Cipriano, Setsuna continues talking to Red, not noticing the general tension in the older rogue, and speaks as if the encounter from last night didn't happen, "Are you free today? I am new to town, and with the goblin troubles I will probably stay longer than I had planned. Could I talk you into showing me around?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Okay, daily spells...

0: Enhanced Diplomacy, Guidance, Detect Magic, Read Magic
1: Summon Monster I, Shield of Faith, Bless
Domain: Protection from Evil

Channel Energy: IIIII

Rico and Red found Cipriano in a surprisingly relaxed get-up for breakfast: instead of the lamellar armor and the sky-blue surcoat, the Caydenite cleric had come down for breakfast wearing only a blue tunic (his favourite color, apparently), a pair of trousers and boots, his metal grieves strapped on his legs. On his loins he carried his weapons belt, the finely-crafted rapier resting against his thigh. The only hint that the young man expected to do something more than simply relax and sit in the inn was the fact that he had brought his armaments down with him, clearly intending to strap himself into the suit of steel lamellar once he was done with breakfast.

He was in the middle of writing something, having just asked for breakfast (porridge, bread, cheese, a few slices of bacon if there was any, some fruit and tea), when the two women barged in. At least he had the decency not to look surprised - well, except the time when Rico stuck the arrow in front of him.

"I think you told me just yesterday that Miss Kaijitsu doesn't fancy weapons stickin' out of her tables", he still tried to joke, but grew serious when he saw the red in Rico's eyes, and the worry in Red's. He nodded when he heard what the matter was, and dusted the parchment before setting it aside. "'Salright, Red. I won't make a run for it, if that's what you're worried about."

When he was alone with Rico, he took a small pouch from his belt - the same that he had used when calling the bluff on Voss's state of unconsciousness. "Here... I think you need this more 'n me. Alchemist's kindness. Helps for hangover. Ingested orally, though", he said with a small smile before leaning closer and lowering his voice. "You said you wanted my counsel and confession. Involving this bard? Whisper, I think you said her name was. I advised you to go an' talk with her, let her know how you felt about... y'know, what she did. After that... well, you said you wanted to thank for lis'ning. I thought it was what you wanted, so I didn't stop ya, 'though you were drunk as a dwarf on Merrymead."

Cipriano sighed deeply and looked Rico right in the eye. "Look... I don't pretend to be a moral man. But I try t' be a good one. An' if what we did last night... if that hurt you in any way, I'm sorry an' I'll do my damndest to earn your forgiveness. As for... the things you told me? Those things stay between us an' the gods. I'll take 'em to th' grave with me. On that, you've my word. May my manhood wither an' wine turn t' ash in my mouth, if I play you false."

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

"...If you really want... to know things, you should... ask Rico. Or Mister Mandraiv. They grew up here. I just... pass through." Red looks wistfully down at her callused hands. Sighing for what must have been the hundredth time that morning, she picks up her breakfast and finishes it off in two quick bites.

Pausing to dust the crumbs off her pants, Red swallows and continues, glancing over at Rico's back. "...Miss Setsuna. How old are you?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Maybe, but it's you who I really want to get to know quickly, and Rico-san looks busy anyway. I wonder what they're talking about?

Before she can ask Red about it, she's caught off guard by the sudden question about her age. Setsuna hesitates for a moment, not sure what to think of Red's seemingly random curiosity, before replying, "Seventeen, at present, why do you ask?"

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Seventeen... That was really young. Not much older than Red herself had been when she'd run away from the monastery. And how many silly things had she done then? She'd lost count of the number of times she'd almost died during that nightmarish first year. Just a foolish little girl, swinging her stolen kukris like she knew what she was doing...

Almost reflexively, Red places her left hand over her heart, thinking of the ugly scars criss-crossing her slender body - scars she hadn't needed to get, scars that wouldn't ever go away. It'd been hard at age seventeen. So hard. And if Setsuna was so far from Tian-Min at age seventeen, then just how young had she been when she'd left her home? Sixteen? Fourteen? Why would anyone leave home so young? Where were Setsuna's parents? Why weren't they taking care of her? Maybe Setsuna didn't have parents... Or maybe there was something else wrong... and Setsuna had to go away...

Red looks up at Setsuna, something in her eyes softening as she tucks some stray strands of hair behind her ears. "... I must... take Mister Sirus to sell... the goblin things. But I am... free. After that."

[Miraqariftsky]

Rico stares blankly at the pouch as she listens as best she could. Poison? Lies? Narcotic? Wait, Red didn't explain what that other whatchamacallit was... but I trust her. This'n... ehhhhhh... All the while, like a magistrate's scribe--- or rather, a beat cop who knows the value of notes, her hands mechanically take down Cipriano's account, word for word.

A hardened, inkstained hand closes on his and pushes the pouch away. A thick black brow rises as she finally breaks the silence after hearing him out. "No, no tenkye. I take my consequences, good or ill. Hellsteeth, truth be, I'm 'alf-minded-a muster out an' get meh t'th Sisters. Not THAT kind uh nunnery, ye wanker. Deh nun-o-book-an-blade kind. An' ORALLY? Speaking of orally... what the frak... IS... that strangeness claffding ahp me mouth an' gullet?"

"Moral, schmoral." Rico snorts, then drones, "Decent's fine by my books. So long as yer not filed under Abuse, Theft, Murder, Mauradery/Piracy and Tampering with Records, yer not immediately incarceration/execution-worthy."

"...hurt?" She ponders aloud, then nods her thanks at whichever wench had brought her coffee--- then reels her in and growls for some proper food. "...yeah, hurt. Similar yet different to that--- other incident you'd mentioned. Strange... sort of aches. Felt a little bit like my first kill. Neighbour's son saw my fish was bigger'n his. Tried ta gank't. Fought. Head caught t'railing. Went overboard. Me second kill... was a cust... er, pirate scum. Got too rough wid me mudder. Got angry. Mmmmmm. Got me first forty lashes at half-a-score. Me first cutlass eleven moons after. You, 'member yer first kill?"

Feeling marginally better on treading more familiar ground, after gargling half a cup of steaming coffee, then downing the rest to wash down a good chunk of bacon, bread and bananas--- and back to her standard scowl, Rico grunts, "Right. Yeah. Well..."

And then she crackles her knuckles and extends a hand, "...well and done. Appreciated. Arrighty. Comrades?" When he does take her hand, she pumps it once, then pulls him close and growls into his face, "Next time that ye do yer... minstrations... make sure that yer parishioner's clearly sober an' on the level. Otherwise, daht falls dehn unner the 'not in full control of body or mind' clause. Criminally culpable, felony Abuse."

"Are ye... accounting. Accounting. Are ye absolutely sure nei'r owes nother nothing?" The scarred halforc then stands, straightens her coat and says, "Hrrmph. Still the first hour. 'Sgood. Lots ta do. Ye says ye wantsa 'elp? Fine. Keep a weather eye on Red an' Setsuna, help wot ye could, make sure they don't come to harm. More deh lattahr dough. A frigg bit too young fer safety's sake. Red's right good't wot she does. I've got a good lot ta do's well. Dishwashing. Bath. Table-cobbling. Other matters. HUH! And why the hellsteeth do I keep remembering the word 'professional'?"

She then gathers up her misplaced weapons and makes for her room, saying over her shoulder, "Mr Vernetti. That order did not come from me."

Rico returns her greatsword and longbow to their respective racks in Maestro's former room, now her room... Not clean enough! These things are out of order! Drop an' gimme fifty! Yer weapon is yer life! Then clean yerself and the racks! ...then twitches, a couple of breaths drawing short. Unconsciously, when she leaves the room and makes for the kitchen, the weapon is back, strapped into its trusty baldric. She grunts the other wenches away and sets to work with mechanical efficiency...

...and by the second hour she is already at the plaza, finishing up gathering the bits and pieces of her goblinstained weaponized table and making for her favourite workbench at the local Carpenters' Guild.

At around the fourth hour, she drops her thanks, as well as a five-silver due, she makes for the Rusty Dragon, the freshly-cobbled table over her shoulder. Fortunately, it seems that only main piece had come off and splintered into a half-dozen pieces. It wasn't anything that a reinforcing underpanel and quad-struts, as well as liberal and judicious application of nails and wood-glue couldn't fix. The top she just cleaned off of dust but left the dents, scratches and bloodstains on, as per Ameiko's instructions.

When she finds the cheerful taverner, she bows and says, "Sarenreh smile on yer smile, Keep. 'Ow ye doin'? Cobbled an' better'n new, as ordered. Where'd ye wannit?"

After setting it down where Ameiko orders, she wipes the sweat off her brow, reaches for a pitcher of water and says, "Ye mind iffen I 'elp meself to 'ouse water? Thankee kindly. Lassnigh'... uh, sorreh 'bout the disturbance? An'... ye were serious 'bout that? Free week's rent? Oh, by the way, how's yer brother doing? Um... ye seen Whisper around, 'ave ye? Still in 'er room as of last listing, or leff town arready?"

[Desril]

Setsuna

Sense Motive to figure out why Red asked that and why she didn't respond to Setsuna's asking: [roll0]

"Oh, well that is perfect" Setsuna says in reply to Red's statement, contemplating for a second, "I need to talk to Rico-san about replacing the skirt she gave me, but she seems somewhat distracted at present." A statement confirmed as Rico gathers up her weapons and retreats to her room, "I shall join the two of you, and speak with her at a better time. I am curious as to just how much all of the spoils of yesterday's" she struggles for the word for a moment, "incident are worth anyway."

After a moment, Setsuna looks curiously at Red again, still not sure why the human wanted to know her age, at least it's not another lecture about how I'm "too young to be fighting" before thinking of her own question, "What about you, Red-san? How many years have you seen?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"First... kill?" Cipriano asked, wondering for a moment why Rico had started talking about such things. It took him a few seconds to realize that what had taken place last night must have been one of the firsts as well. For his credit, Cipriano had the decency to blush red as a beet all the way to his hairline. "Well... they say it... 's always a little painful th' first time. I couldn't tell it from you, though... You seemed... uh, lost in th' moment. If them aches persist, though... Lemme know. I've some remedies that can help."

"As for my first", the young cleric started, then falling silent for a moment. He sighed deeply. "Four years ago, when I was still an acolyte. I was visitin' some kinfolk in the Varisian camp down in Beacon's Point. A cousin... was bein' accosted by some drunken Sczarni thug. I'd probably drunk too much sittin' with my uncles, so I told the bugger to... well, lessay I said his stench would make an otyugh vomit an' someone'd switched his ass an' face around. Point is, I got him mad, right an' proper, an' managed a lucky knife in his armpit when he was wallopin' me. No guard was called, an' since he wasn't one a' Jaijarko's boys, no blood feud, either. My mentor said I'd done right, all in all, defendin' my cousin, but I should never try an' pick a fight if I coulda talked him into livin' my cousin alone."

When Rico offered her hand, the small cloud of gloom that the story had lifted upon Cipriano's countenance dissolved. He didn't hesitate to take her up on that offer, and even managed to smile when she told him to keep his lusts in line. "Yes, ma'am, I'll remember to do that in the future", he said - in the exact same tone he had used when Rico had clobbered him before the festival. "As for accounting, I don't keep score. I leave that to them Abadarians", he chuckled. "But if we end up in another fight, I've got yer back if you've got mine. You're a good lass, Rico, an' I'd be proud to fight an' drink with you again. As for the other things... I'll remember it fondly, but let's not do that again after Slayers, Dwarven or otherwise."

After Rico had left the table, Cipriano sighed deeply. Well... that's a story I'll never tell, or she'll rip me a new one, he contemplated. But then again... he didn't feel like telling that story to anyone either. What had happened was something special, circumstances notwithstanding. And he didn't wish to sully the memory by reducing it to a tall tale. Smiling a little at the idea, Cipriano finished penning his parchment. Picking up the parchment he walked over to one of the exposed wooden beams along the wall, just behind a table large enough to seat him and his current companions. Perfect.

Whistling, he then turned to look at the room. "Miss Red, Miss Setsuna... May I ask for your help? And pardon me, ma'am", he said politely when the halfling maid came by him. What might surprise the halfling was that he took a knee, looking her in the eye at her level, instead of issuing statements from on high. "Would you be so kind as to fetch Miss Kaijitsu, please? I promised I would not do this without her approval."

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico

On hold for now.

*****

Cipriano

The halfling maid is visibly stunned by your gallant gesture. Blushing slightly, she nods and leans her cleaning brush on a nearby table before vanishing into the kitchen. A few moments later, she returns, the lithe form of Ameiko striding along behind her, an apron tied rakishly around her waist. Upon seeing you, she tips you a jaunty salute.

"Hey! Berthana said you were looking for me?"

*****

Setsuna's Sense Motive roll:
All you can tell is that Red is thinking about something - she seems to have a lot on her mind. As to what she's thinking about though, you can't tell.

*****

Red

The question brings forth a faint smile from Red as she counts off on her fingers. "...Twenty... three. Four, once winter is here," she says with a glimmer of pride touching her corners of her lips. Damn straight, she was twenty three years old and still getting older. Her father had always said she was weak. Runty. That she would never make it past childhood. Guess who was laughing now?

Noticing that Rico had finished talking to Cipriano, Red is about to excuse herself to check on her friend when Cipriano approaches her and Setsuna.

"Of course," she says, nodding genially. "... Is Rico... all right?"

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"I think she is... She just wanted to make sure what happened last night", Cipriano answered to Red, as comfortingly as he could. Still, he chose to keep most of the conversation to himself. If Rico wished to tell Red, that was her call, not his. "Just... remind me never to order a Dwarven Slayer without casting an endurance spell on myself first, okay?"

When the halfling maid returned with Ameiko, Cipriano washed away his worries from his face and smiled broadly. "Yes, that I did. I believe we agreed I would not nail anything to your wall without your approval. Therefore... Lady Ameiko Kaijitsu, proprietress of the Rusty Dragon Inn of Sandpoint, may I have the honor of nailing the holy word of Cayden Cailean to this post, and thereby offer this establishment the blessing of the Lucky Drunk until such a time that you kick me out?" the young cleric asked, his words a combination of rakish charm and priestly pomp as he rolled open the parchment. On top of the page he had written in bold letters the title The Placard of Wisdom; or the Divine Words of Cayden Cailean, followed by a list of short aphorisms and wisdoms appropriate to the god of brewing, adventuring and freedom. Some of which included:

Don't piss in my drink and I won't piss in yours.

You break it, you buy it.

Drink to remember, not to forget.

A pint of ale shared with friends tastes better than a barrel of wine by yourself.

If you can't remember what you did last night, it was probably fun. And don't worry, someone will remind you. Whether you want to or not.

[Mithric Gunn]

Mandraiv glances at the paper, "Now theres a god I can get along with! Heh, that last one's especially good, considering what happened last time the Accidental God got that wasted." He grows somewhat contemplative, "Hmm, I wonder if he likes being reminded."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Well, let's see", Cipriano said and looked up into the ceiling.

And looked.

And looked.

"Hmm... no thunderbolts from the sky presently. Though you might want to have a cup of ale. If it tastes sour in your mouth, you've managed to piss Cayden off."

[Desril]

Setsuna

Once asked for aid by Cipriano, Setsuna responds just after Red, "Of course, you have my assistance for whatever you require," expressing a similar concern for Rico, and chuckling at the clerics 'words of wisdom'.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Ameiko chortles as she reads Cipriano's penned paper. "I like that one about the pint of ale with friends. Well then, Father Cipriano. As owner, proprietess, and barkeep of the Rusty Dragon, I grant you permission to grace the walls of mine fine establishment with the expert wisdom of the Lucky Drunk."

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

"Thank you, milady. I accept your invitation and offer my services to the fine people of Sandpoint, as witnessed by Misses Setsuna and Red, and Master Mandraiv", Cipriano answered with a polite bow to all five in attendance - yes, including the halfling maid Berthana.

After that, he slid one of his two daggers out of its hilt and placed the parchment against the solid oak. One sharp thrust and the Placard of Wisdom was hanging from the inn's wall, the Magnimarian dagger still quivering.

"There. Thank you all. Now let's finish breakfast and start invigorating the crap outta the local economy, shall we?" Cipriano said with a broad smile, signifying that the ceremony was over. Clearly the church of the Lucky Drunk wasn't big on pomp and circumstance.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Rico

Still on hold for one more GM post.

*****

Everybody else

With Cipriano's work done and Rico nowhere in sight for the moment, the rest of you head out of the Rusty Dragon and into town once you've all had something to eat.

It is about mid-morning by now and for the rest of Sandpoint, it's back to business as usual - with farmers crowding the marketplace, housewives going about their shopping, and the clang of iron from the smithy. At least half of the locals you meet in the streets smile and wave cheerily at you, recognising you instantly as the heroes of yesterday - or is that Cipriano's free round of drinks last night at work? Either way, a fair number of the locals are disposed to be friendly towards you and if they didn't know your names yesterday... well, they now do.

(Hooray, you have groupies.)

Those of you paying attention to the local gossip swirling around learn that first thing this morning, Father Zantus had gathered the town leaders and the other local clerics to hold a quiet and much more subdued indoor ceremony to finish consecrating Sandpoint Cathedral. This has disappointed a few of the more pious Desna worshippers, but the majority of Sandpoint seems eager to get yesterday's unpleasantness behind them as quickly as possible. After all, it would have been plain awkward to go through the whole thing all over again, especially with the Watch stretched to its limits and Hemlock having summoned in most of the local militia to help with the manpower shortfall.

In other news, Daviren Hosk seems to be offering a bounty of 5 gp for every pair of goblin ears brought to him, which has led some of the more enterprising townsfolk to head down to the Garrison to demand that Hemlock release the goblins to them. (Hemlock's answer so far has been no, but one never knows.) Cyrdak Drokkus, local playwright and showman, is reportedly thinking of altering his latest play to include a goblin attack of some sort. Dungsweeper Gorvi's been swaggering about town claiming that he took on ten goblins all by himself. Chod Bevuk's been claiming that he took on fifteen. And other drivel of that sort.

.....

At the armoury

Cipriano's rolls:
Appraise (1d20+5)[24] - the work at this armoury is as good as it gets in a town the size of Sandpoint - perhaps even better; Savah's been in business for years, and the number of masterwork weapons on display is boast enough of her skills.
Diplomacy (1d20+6)[17] - Even if Savah wasn't already eager to get to know the nice people who stopped her livelihood from going up in smoke, she's fairly impressed by everyone's manners. The fact that she's got a scantily-clad tiefling in her store doesn't faze her one bit.
Sense Motive (1d20+8)[10] - Savah seems genuinely grateful that you all saved her store.

As it so happens, Savah Bevaniky, owner of the armoury you all prevented from catching fire yesterday, is immensely pleased when the lot of you present yourselves at her door. So pleased, in fact, that she doesn't mind accepting 'goblin-tainted' weapons and leather - ("Oh, I'm sure the smell will clean itself up something beautiful in no time at all!"). She's grateful beyond measure that her precious armoury was saved from burning down a second time - apparently the great fire that took out the chapel that'd existed before the new Cathedral had almost taken her armoury with it. As such, she's also willing to sell any of you armour and weapons at 20% off the usual cost.

Loot is sold for a total of 109 gp, with leaves you all with 129 gp in total. Party split per person is 21 gp 5 sp. See below for the exact breakdown.

Cipriano only has to pay 1 gp 6 sp for a dagger if he wants one. Anyone else want discount sales?

.....

At the General Store

Mandraiv (perhaps unsurprisingly) knows exactly where the General Store is and he takes the lead on your way there. Unfortunately or not, a certain someone else happens to be in the area as well when you all make your appearance on the scene.

You have all gathered outside the store and are just about to enter to get Cipriano's stationery when the door swings open to reveal none other than Aldern Foxglove on his way out, followed by three menservants. The young noble seems none worse the wear despite yesterday's events - in fact, he cuts a rather dashing figure in his jerkin and hose, the exquisite blue and gold hunting jacket athwart his shoulders notwithstanding. Upon seeing your group, his eyes instantly light up and he eagerly hurries down the steps to greet you all.

"My friends! I didn't see you at the Rusty Dragon at all - forgive my poor manners. I was quite tired out from all that goblining business yesterday, and I had to see to poor Siegfried's body this morning - he'll want to be buried under his favourite tree at the estate, no doubt. I was just about to head out hunting - was almost afraid that I'd have to leave town tomorrow without seeing any of you! Especially you, Master Scarletti." Aldern beams roundly at all of you, thankfully oblivious to Red's frown as he advances, patting at his belt.

"I said I'd thank you all properly, didn't I? A Foxglove never forgets his promises. Here you go then." He fishes a soft leather purse out of his belt and presents it to Sirus with a flourish, bowing slightly. The night's rest seems to have done much to improve his manners.

"I'm only sorry I didn't bring more with me, but I hope you understand when I say that I sure wasn't intending to be saved from being eaten alive by goblins by all you brave people," Aldern chuckles boyishly, revealing beautiful even white teeth. "Perhaps I ought to hire one of you to teach me how to use my body as a weapon, eh? So much for all those fisticuffs they taught me as a child. Absolutely useless against goblins!"

Anyone who opens the purse finds in it gold coins to the value of 300 gp.

*****

1 potion of Cure Moderate Wounds - taken by Red
1 potion of Cure Light Wounds - taken by Sirus
1 masterwork horsechopper - only the head is left - 4 gp
2 shortbows - 30 gp
2 quivers with 20 arrows each - 1gp
2 studded leather armour (small) - 12 gp 75 sp
7 leather armour (small) - 2 gp 5sp x 7 = 14 gp 35 sp
8 dogslicers - 4 gp x 8 = 32 gp
1 whip - 5 sp
20 gp

Total = 129 gp
Party Split per person = 21 gp 5 sp

[North_Ranger]

Cipriano Verneti

Once Cipriano had dressed up in his armor again, he was ready to go. And once outside, he didn't let his charm drop as he and his comrades-in-arms went on their way towards the armoury. He greeted everyone with a warm smile and a wave, and if someone wished to have words with them, he made sure to get the person's name. He had every intention to stay in Sandpoint as long as he was welcome there, so it was just prudent to start learning people's names and faces.

At the armoury he proved he wasn't just a pretty face, though; talking amicably with Mistress Bevaniky he applauded her excellent wares as well as asked her expert opinion on his own rapier - a Magnimarian bravo's blade of blue Shoanti steel and a Chelish-style decorative crossguard, forged by the master swordsmith Tyrian Arronax. While he had no intention of selling the sword, he did have a hand on trying some of her masterwork maces, in the hopes he might have sufficient coin to purchase one of the lighter ones later on. In the end, he did replace the dagger now sticking out of Ameiko's wall with a beautifully-crafted hunting knife - bought with a handful of silver pieces and a hope of future patronage.

Their journey to the general store, however, was interrupted by the sudden appearance of the Foxglove lad - this time with a trio of man servants in attendance. Cipriano managed to stifle a frown that almost appeared on his forehead at the constant bubbling of platitudes and praises from the young nobleman. All words, no deeds, as his mentor would have said. The kind of man who pays others to work for him, instead of getting his own hands dirty. Cipriano was something of a dandy himself, but this man just went overboard with it.

Rolling Sense Motive... I don't trust this guy. [roll0]

[North_Ranger]

Okay, let's try that one again. I keep forgetting that previewing the post or getting the 1-minute error message fudges up the roll.

So... Sense Motive [roll0]

And to heck with it, let's roll Knowledge (Nobility) too [roll1]

[maggie_mcknife]

Red

Red scowls at the crazy man and his flunkeys, not bothering to hide her irritation. What was it with rich people and being weird?

Pointedly ignoring Aldern and not bothering with the purse in Sirus' hand, she turns her back on the young noble and goes up the steps into the General Store.

[Desril]

Setsuna

Having set out from the Rusty Dragon, Setsuna found herself thinking that maybe she should stay a while in Sandpoint, even after the goblin situation was resolved. There were good people here, maybe even some real friends, something she hadn't had in too long. Even with her mind distracted however, common courtesy comes naturally due to her upbringing as she greets each of the group's well-wisher along with Cipriano, trying to learn their names and faces to make this town feel more like a home rather than simply another spot on a map.

Once the man that their group had saved yesterday makes his appearance, she notices Red's obvious distaste for him but ignores it for the sake of diplomacy. Having some experience with dealing with nobility, even if from another region, Setsuna has an idea of what the pouch contains without needing to examine it. Sirus-san doesn't like to speak much from what I've seen, perhaps I should handle this...If he's anything like the noblemen of home then he'll want to appear as kind and generous as possible, and love the chance to coerce us into this gift.

Turning to Aldern, Setsuna gives a slight bow and a courteous smile, "You are too generous Foxglove-dono, our group did only what would be expected of any able bodies." She pauses for a moment, a look of regret passing her features, "And we were ultimately unable to protect your beloved Siegfried, we have no right to accept reward for that."

Diplomacy to make him more friendly [roll0] (+1 Alluring?)

Also a Diplomacy roll for the passerby and groupies [roll1]

[ProudGrognard]

Sirus


Sirus face betrays no emotion as he sees the young nobleman, but it seems to become more stoney. However, after his show of gratitude, Sirus takes the pouch and gives a bow. A man who does not forget his debts when he could have is someone who deserves a bit of respect. His companions reactions aside, Sirus answers.

"Unarmed combat. Is not for. Gentlemen of breeding. However. Generosity in gratitude. Becomes him. I accept this. As a mark of. A gentleman."

With that, he bows again and waits until Foxglove leaves.

[maggie_mcknife]

GM post

Everyone else

Party (sushi) Rolls:
Cipriano:
Sense Motive (1d20+8)[28]: You sense that Aldern is indeed trying hard to impress all of you. He's genuinely curious about his saviours, and he's certainly very taken with Sirus - though this seems to be hero-worship rather than anything lustful in nature. Nevertheless, you also sense something desperate, almost pleading, about the young noble. Almost as though he is deeply afraid of something and seeing all of you kindles in him some spark of hope.


Knowledge (Nobility) (1d20+1)[21]: You know that the Foxgloves are an ancient noble house originally hailing from Magnimar, having made good their fortunes as immensely successful merchants and traders. The family has been plagued by tragedy in recent years, however, with local Varisian rumour holding that some Foxglove ancestor must have made a deal with a devil or something like that.

Aldern Foxglove is the last surviving male of the Magnimar Foxglove branch. A fire broke out in the servant's wing of the Foxglove country manor about twenty years ago, and by the time it was put out, Cyralie Foxglove was found dead - burnt and dashed on the rocks below the cliffs behind the house - and Traver Foxglove was found in his bedroom, dead by his own hand. Their children - Aldern and his sisters - were sent away to be raised by their relatives in distant Korvosa.

Aldern returned to Magnimar about five years ago to reclaim his legacy and restore the Foxglove name. You know that he's been making something of a name for himself as a successful trader, that he's been busy trying to hire artisans to fix the ruined country manor, and that he got married about a year or so ago to a wildly beautiful Varisian commoner - something that scandalised his Korvosan relations to no end.


Diplomacy to chum up the people of Sandpoint (1d20+6)[15]: Most of the people you meet seem pleased to have a Caydenite priest in their midst. "You'll be 'olding all yer services in the taverns, won't yer?"

*****

Setsuna:
Diplomacy to make Aldern more friendly (1d20+7)[11] (+1 Alluring = 12)


Diplomacy roll for the passerby and groupies (1d20+7)[8]: You'd expect the people of Sandpoint to have been tieflings before, but apparently you expected wrong. Most of the people you meet are polite enough, but seem wary of your odd eyes and tail. Your choice of dress also elicits a few sounds of disapproval from the more conservative of the citizens.

Aldern looks askance at Red as she moves away, a vaguely pained look flashing across his face before he turns to Setsuna with a warm smile.

"Nonsense, milady," he says graciously, bobbing his head in the appropriate courtly manner. "You saved my life too. Surely you don't mean to say that I'm not allowed to be grateful for my own life? No. You keep the money. I insist. It's all I can do for you."

Once Sirus accepts the purse, Aldern beams and promptly makes to grab hold of Sirus' hand again, but manages to remember to keep his manners in front of his menservants at the last moment. Grinning to cover his embarrassment, he settles for a deeper bow than before. "Not for gentlemen of breeding, eh? I'll remember that. Why I-"

Aldern doesn't manage to get any further. Behind him, Red pulls open the store door and is immediately assailed by the explosive sounds of what is clearly a family quarrel, the sheer volume of the raised voices all but drowning out Aldern's.

"- not having my eldest daughter sneak around with some command hand, like she's some whore from Kaye's cathouse!"

"Ven! Keep your voice down!"

"Solsta, do you even know what they're saying about Katrine down at the taverns?"

Red looks back uncertainly at the rest of you. Before she can decide to close the door and come back later, however, a frustrated young woman in country dress storms out of the store, pausing only to shout back at her parents. "I can't believe the two of you are fighting over something stupid like this! Kat's already twenty-four, by the Gods! You know what? Forget it! I'll go fix our own damn rat problem MYSELF."

Without waiting for a response, the young woman slams the door and flounces down the stairs two at the time in a huff. Those of you who spent any amount of time at the festival yesterday with the local ladies instantly recognise her - this is not the notorious Katrine Vinder, but her younger sister, Shayliss.

Shayliss instantly recognises Mandraiv and approaches him right away, sighing and shaking her head. "Dammit. Sorry I didn't see you there, Mandy. You didn't need to hear that. The old man's up in arms about Kat going round with Banny. Like seriously - isn't Kat old enough to decide who she should bloody well date?" She rolls her eyes and folds her arms under her breasts, tossing her flaming red hair in bold defiance of her father.

"All I did was ask dad if Kat could come down to the basement with me to clear out the rats that were getting at the corn sacks, and he just blew up! Said he wasn't having Kat going into no dark places where she could get up to mischief. Sheesh."

At this point, Aldern seems to perk up and he coughs politely. "Um, maybe I could help, young miss? I'm sure-"

Shayliss doesn't even grace Aldern with a side-glance, merely sneering at the hope in the young man's voice. "With all due respect, Mister Foxglove? Piss off and go home to cuddle your wifey. You couldn't even take on a couple of gobbos yesterday - I heard you telling me mam. What makes you think you can take on some big ole rats, eh?"

*****

Rico

Ameiko laughs and passes you the pitcher of water. "There's plenty more where that came from, Rico. You just gotta say the word. And of course I'm serious about letting you and the others stay here for a week free. When have you ever known me to joke about my business?"

As you drink, Ameiko runs her thumb over the table, inspecting the joints and the grain of the wood, nodding imperceptibly to herself in satisfaction as she does so. Slapping the top with her hand, she grins and waits for you to finish with the pitcher. "Y'know, for a copper, you do decent woodwork. Thank you. This'll be one heck of a table - you'll sit at it tonight, won't you? Just for show?"

At the mention of her brother, Ameiko's smile fades a little, but she rallies quickly and gives a small shrug, an oddly wistful expression on her face. "Same old, Rico. I've been asking everyone who passes through the Dragon if they've seen Tsuto around, but no luck. You'd think a half-elf with Tian blood would be easier to find, but there we go. Why do you ask? And no, Whisper checked out this morning while you were fixing the table. Said something about heading to Korvosa. This isn't about... that song, is it? I told her she ought not to be making songs about people like that, but she just went into this long spiel about creative differences."

Ameiko eyes you carefully, aware that she's broaching a sensitive topic here.