As was its habit, the sun announced its appearance a little while before it actually arrived in the sky of Sandpoint. Last night's rain had cleansed the cobblestones and the buildings of their recent dirt and grime, so now there was an air of freshness and newness through the town. And with the crier's calls promising a new mayoral announcement this morning, the freshness of the day was suddenly painted with anticipation and excitement.
As townsfolk gathered outside the town hall, speculation was rampant as to what the issue was. Soon the rumor started spreading, and though it's not clear who gave it birth, it was abundantly clear that only the mayor would be its fair opponent in battle, and possibly defeat it. The rumor was this: last night a cart, or wagon, or possibly caravan (though not likely, as more evidence of such would have been seen) had been attacked by goblins, the driver had been killed, and its sole passenger, a crazed, violent, and bizarre looking potential patient of Habe's Sanitarium, had escaped and had not been caught yet. That, plus something about a dead priest, fireworks, and a crying toddler, made the whole thing quite confusing.
All the commotion and noise died down immediately when Mayor Kendra Deverin appeared at the top of the steps. All wanted to hear what was going on. Sure enough, she only waited until the crowd had quieted and then she got straight to the point.
"Fellow Sandpointers, you might have heard about more troubles with goblins last night. Indeed, there was an attack on a single covered wagon just as it was arriving in town from the North. It is with great sadness that I report that Father Kenvin Yung of Windsong Abbey was found dead very early this morning by the town guard. Furthermore, a shackled and chained patient was in the wagon, which was en route to Habe's Sanitorum. He has gone missing. Other details are unclear, but there was some blood and definite evidence of a goblin attack.
If any of you knew father Yung, I offer my deepest sympathies and regrets.
As you all know, the goblin attacks have been increasing of late, and it's past time to do something about it. As such, I am reinstating the town's old offer of ten gold pieces for each Brinestump Marsh goblin ear brought to the Town Hall, and three hundred for the head of the chieftain named Gutwad. These goblins are a nuisance, a deadly plague to the area that must be stopped!
There is little more to say...
Now, I've not yet had a bite to eat today, so if you have any questions please join me in the Rusty Dragon. I'll answer any question I can."
The crowd mutters curses at the goblins, and some seem to blame the mayor, some Habe, the owner of the Sanitarium, some even blame Father Yung for traveling unprotected in a dangerous land. Soon enough the same crowd disperses, and some individuals who want to talk to the mayor amble southward toward the inn individually, and soon enough they are comprised of a few small groups.
You a part of one such group as you head purposefully toward the Rusty Dragon; when you hear a call. It sounds like a child's moan, and in short order you note it is coming from a nearby well.
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The pale Halfling nods calmly. "Yes, I am Bug. Last night those... things... put me in there and cut the rope. There was an attack! Is Father Yung okay?"
Knowing the mayor, you are sure she and the captain of the guard would like to hear this little..... person's story. Plus, of course, you are curious to hear any answers to question she may be asked about the goblins.Bug, who sort of looks like a wet maggot right now, says, "Well? Where is Father Yung? I do hope he's okay!"
"Must ... go... see ... if ... Father ... Yung ... okay!"
Bug runs. Run Bug, run!
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He's running through the town. He goes past the town hall, where the mayor spoke, and up toward the north gate. He starts walking, out of breath.
The Halfling stops when he here's the Dwarf's latest words. He turns and looks at the Dwarf."Then why didn't you tell me? Where is he, now, please?"
Nico arrives in the Rusty Dragon with several other people, including the Mayor, and, not able to find a free table, sees the local wizard Lorus at a table by himself.
When Bug starts asking for Father Yung, the Mayor stands up and goes over to him.
"Are you a friend of Father Yung?" She seems a bit surprised by what he's wearing. "Breeve, pleaae bring my coat."
Bug nods and says, "Is he okay? He is like my own father to me."
"There was an attack on his wagon last night, just before it entered town."
Bug looks pained. "I know, I was there with him."
She looks shocked. "You were there? What happened? All we learned was that the... That Goblins attacked a wagon. A wagon driven by Father Yung."
Breeve arrives with a large coat, which he puts over the Halfling.
Bug says, "And Father Yung was injured and is being taken care of somewhere?" He is on the verge of tears.
The mayor, already kneeling and looking Bug in the eye, puts her hands on his shoulders and shakes her head. "He was found near the wagon. The goblins killed him. I'm so sorry."
Bug looks around the room. All eyes are on him as his eyes water. Eventually he says, "I would like a room. I have no money."
Ameiko, standing not far away, says "Follow me, Miles."
You wonder why she called him Miles.
Bug ignores the Dwarf's offer as he follows Ameiko upstairs.
He shakes his head but you are not sure why...
Meanwhile studies Bug.. Sense motive or wisdom check 15.
Occ rules inside, enjoying 1 day off, I think; outside.
The mayor appreciates the offers to go hunting Goblins, and says, "So, it looks like we have a group of brave men and women who are up for this task. But beware, the Brinestump marsh is also home to a variety of dangers, not only the Goblins. I would hate to have more good citizens fall to any of these dangers.
Which reminds me, we will be burying Father Yung tomorrow morning in the graveyard. All are welcome to attend."
"Although I find the taking of body parts barbaric, I will help in the search of these felons," Lorus offers. "Goblins, however backwards, are a people, not animals and should be treated as such," he continues.
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2012 12:46 AM
Subject: Re: [Jade Regent] Re: One Morning in Sandpoint
Nico seems to brighten at Lorus' suggestion. That sounds like a really good idea. I would like to accompany you, mayhap the others would too, if you invite them. Might help us know what we're up against!
Nico finally asks the mayor out loud, so everyone can hear, Mayor? Didn't I hear you offer a bounty for the goblins? What was that amount again?
The half-elf waits eagerly for what he hopes to hear!
John
On Sun, Jun 24, 2012 at 8:05 PM, Sammy Claus <sammy_...@yahoo.com> wrote:
"I'm willing to help with the goblin problem," Lorus replies to Nico. "We should first investigate the scene of the crime for any clues as to the attackers," Lorus suggests.
Sent: Saturday, June 23, 2012 9:50 PM
Subject: Re: [Jade Regent] Re: One Morning in Sandpoint
Before Nico can explain what's about to happen to Lorus, it happens.
After Bug has been told, after Ameiko leave the room, and after Tara calls for volunteers,
Nico asks Lorus if he needs more clarification?
Then calling to Tara, I'll go with you Tara, and will the Mayor make it worth our while?
Turning back to Lorus, I have no love lost for goblins. I'm surprised they've been allowed to grow a presence here without some kind of response from the city. Do you know much about them?
John
On Fri, Jun 22, 2012 at 2:00 PM, Sammy Claus <sammy_...@yahoo.com> wrote:
Lorus nods at this Nico with half a frown, "oh yes please join me," he says his voice dripping with sarcasm."What brings the Mayor to this illustrious establishment this fair morning?" Lorus asked in a more neutral tone.
Sent: Friday, June 22, 2012 12:51 AM
Subject: Re: [Jade Regent] Re: One Morning in Sandpoint
Not much being one for decorum, Nico will move to the table with the wizard Lorus and ask if he can join him. "Don't seem to be many other seats, and I really want to hear what the Mayor has to say. Not to mention get a meal and an ale. You're Lorus aren 't you? I've heard of you." Not waiting for the answer to the first question, Nico will throw a leg over the chair and plop his frame down, patting the table to get a waitress' attention in the process. "Bring us both an ale, and a mug of stew for myself." Then, turning back to Lorus, "Allow me to set you a mug."
JohnOn Thu, Jun 21, 2012 at 9:08 PM, Michael New <mi...@noozoo.com> wrote:Nico arrives in the Rusty Dragon with several other people, including the Mayor, and, not able to find a free table, sees the local wizard Lorus at a table by himself.
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Everyone is finished their meal, and even though it's before noon, Ameiko asks everyone if they'd like more ale.
After that she starts playing a heroes' song for you..
"Ameiko, have ya a fair idea of where they be holed up?" says Daerghast polishing off the last of his Ale. Looking around for someone to give coins to.
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Before the funeral, Nico will move about the village asking folk what they know about the marsh and the denizens likely to be found there.
Ameiko speaks up. "I know Bug. His real name is Miles. He was raised by Father Yung at the Windsong Abbey. He has only been her twice before that I can remember him. But he's pretty memorable... And if he was riding with Father Yung and the patient, he may know who the patient was. Is."