Chapter 1: Burnt Offerings

Having struggled not to pour more oil on the fire of the previous nights outburst Gongar is eager to move on any new clues that Sheriff Belor might have for them. "Well we shouldn't keep the good Sheriff waiting now should we. You can bring that loaf sticking out of your mouth Xandak."

Xandak begins to sign a question at Shalelu, then realizes she wouldn't understand him, and pulls out his chalkboard instead. A few moments later he turns it over, and on it is written: Sounds bad, how can we help?

Here, finally, is someone who knows what's what. Urthask was quite honestly disappointed after meeting Daviren Hosk. This Shalelu gives him renewed hope.

Well met, Shalelu. You may have met my father, Galazur. He and Daviren Hosk campaigned against the goblins years ago. Hosk seems to think this new threat is little cause for concern. My new friends and I do not share Hosk's optimism. And it seems, neither do you. What more can you tell us?

"5 tribes of goblins working together..." Gongar Shakes his head in disbelief. "Well, I guess that means we get to bash more heads than we originally thought!"

"Agreed, the more goblins killed the better, if allowed any purchase their kind will continue to take until you've not even a home." Daire looks around as he states this, with a single glance towards Urthask. He then glances to Malik "Do you truly believe them to be organized, and if so, to what end?"

Xandak ponders Hemlocks' words.
To stay and guard the town, protecting the innocent citizens with my life... perhaps a chance to begin repaying my penance? This is a real opportunity to see how much I've truly grown and changed. He considers, and looks at both Gongar and Sheriff Hemlock, and nods in acceptance.

"I would rather be out bashing their little heads in, but since we don't currently know where they are..." Gongar shrugs again. "I will stay and watch out for any incursions while you are bringing in reinforcements. What say you Urhtask, Daire and Malik?"

"We are of the same mind, friend Gongar."

"Don't get lost in meditation." Gongar says to Zandak as he waves to the departing Monk. He turns to the rest of the group, "Anyone want to come shopping with me while we wait for Shalelu to finish her errands? I feel these gold pieces burning a hole in my belt pouch."

Xandak approaches the House of Blue stones slowly and reverently, remembering the years he spent here as an adolescent. Memories of the many hours of study, meditation, and training he experienced here passed before his eyes as he enters the building, looking for Sabyl. He took his vows towards the end of his stay in the monastery, so he is aware that she would know he will not speak, though that would not stop him from visiting: she is almost like family to him. He greets her with a broad smile and a warm hug, and bows graciously in acceptance when she offers him tea and food.

Soon enough he makes his way to the meditation floor. In the commotion of the past few days, meditation is something he has been less than diligent about, and he wants to make the most of his time here. Given everything that's happened, and the meeting that was to come tonight, Xandak can not help but feel a little anxious - like he is on the verge of something big. What that something is, he is not sure - but nevertheless the feeling of a calm before the storm is ever-present in his mind. Meditation is sure to help him clear his thoughts. Above all else, however, he seeks the blessing of Irori in silent prayer. Following Irori's path has been, to this point, crucial in his journey of self-betterment and self-empowerment, and Xandak feels the time is quickly approaching when he will have to put all that he has learned to the test. This trouble with the goblins could prove to be that test - a chance to finally pay his penance and expunge the guilt he feels for the death of his family. It is a test he does not intend to fail.

"Well Malik, I'm not too sure what to suggest for you. You really can't go wrong with a dagger. Why don't we head over to Savah's Armory and resupply and finally spend that gold Balor gave us. They might have some suggestions about a suitable weapon for the less martially inclined." Gongar turns to Daire and Urthask, "Will you two be joining us?"

Daire will attend with Malik and Gongar, and perhaps browse to see what weapons he recognizes and what exotic weapons might be common to this land, keeping an eye out for any dwarven style equipment as well.