Campfire Songs and Goblin Wrongs

Masaki finishes paperwork late at the Mage Guard Keep. By the time he reaches the Old Peanut Pub, it’s already around nine. He isn’t wearing his uniform.

As Masaki steps inside, the pub is noisy and packed. Someone is hoisted onto the shoulders of cheering patrons. The barman clears a small table toward the back. A bag of peanuts waves in someone’s hand — and Masaki immediately realizes: a peanut challenge has just happened. He knows better than to ever say those words here.

The floor is littered with broken glass and patches of vomit. Masaki squints through the chaos but struggles to spot familiar faces. With a sigh, he heads toward the bar.

Across the room, Daiki notices him. Sitting at a table with Amber, Ashira, and a goblin nicknamed Snailbrain, Daiki points. “Ash, is that Bana?” he asks.

Ashira glances over, then waves enthusiastically. “Bana, we’re over here!”

Masaki, his hair tied up in a bun and wearing plain clothes, hears her over the din and turns toward them. As he walks over, he orders two ales from the bartender, handing over two copper pieces. He makes his way to the table, setting a mug in front of Snailbrain.

“Nice to meet you,” Masaki says.

“I’m Snailbrain,” the goblin replies, beaming.

“I’m Masaki,” he nods.

Amber grins. “Masaki’s a dear friend, so now you’re friends too.”

Ashira adds, “His friends call him Bana. You can call him Bana too!”

Masaki shakes his head lightly. “You cannot.”

They chat, learning Snailbrain works in the mines. Masaki, curious, asks, “You must be like an overseer then?”

Snailbrain shrugs. “I work. That’s it.” He reveals he’s hiding out from his wife — not his boss — who doesn’t like him spending his paycheck on ale.

“Come on, Snailbrain, you gotta stand up for yourself!” Ashira says, laughing.

“You’re right!” Snailbrain declares, wobbling to his feet.

Masaki catches the goblin’s beer before it spills.

Talk turns to rumors of goblin trouble in the city. Snailbrain admits, “I stay out of it. I just want my usual beer.” He mentions a strange, closed-off mine in the South Branch Quarry. “Weird sounds came from it,” he says. “One worker disappeared. They shut it down.”

Ashira leans in and whispers, “Guys, I bet it was just a place where miners went to hook up.”

Daiki frowns. “What if it’s a poor creature locked down there?”

Ash shrugs. “Well, no sounds anymore. It must’ve died.”

And then… Due to the amount of alcohol in his blood, Snailbrain drops to the floor, unconscious. 

Daiki bends down and tries to lift the unconscious, drunken goblin, attempting to steady him on his feet. “Wake up, little goblin,” he urges, supporting the goblin’s limp head carefully. “Oh, wait, I will stabilize his neck because otherwise it will like snap. I don’t want to do that. Uh, wake up.”

A bit of drool slides down the goblin’s face. Daiki stares, unsure.

“What do you guys do when this happens?” he asks desperately.

Masaki, nearby, shrugs. “Well, I just grab the rest of his beer and throw it in his face. That usually works.”

Amber nods. “Oui, that usually works.”

Masaki casually uses a bit of magic, making sure the goblin doesn’t reek of beer too badly. “Gotta make sure he doesn’t die due to his wife,” he says, half-laughing.

The goblin mumbles, “Oh, I’ve never been this clean in my life,” and after a moment of wobbling, manages to stand.

“Yeah, you should get home. Go to your wife,” Masaki encourages.

Daiki, still holding the goblin up, lets go, watching as the little man stumbles toward the door.

Amber mutters under her breath, “Slim brain.”

“Yeah, I’m going home,” the goblin says proudly, staggering out.

As things settle, Masaki asks, “Did you guys get any good information?”

“Not really,” Ash adds.

They start discussing plans, but it quickly turns chaotic.

“We were going for plan B, right, Ash?” Daiki asks.

“Yeah, but there’s no Boris Conley, so it’s hard,” Ash says.

Amber stiffens. “Shut your pie hole! Are you mad?”

“What? We’re looking for him,” Ash protests. “I’m not mad at you!”

Amber hisses, “Why are you saying his name out loud, petit con?”

“If somebody hears it, that would be great, right?” Ash says innocently.

“Keep your voice down,” Masaki warns.

Amber sighs. “Ah, I’m sorry, oui. I had two drinks, sue me.”

Masaki straightens up. “I think it might be a good idea to head off. We have to be at the forest at first light for the meeting with the goblins.”

“Let’s do that,” Amber agrees. “This is a dead end anyway.”

Masaki pulls Ash aside. “Ash, if I could borrow you, that would be great. I have some questions.”

“Of course, Bana. What do you want to talk about?” Ash smiles.

“Let’s head back and maybe you can help me,” Masaki says.

They discuss where to go. Daiki suggests, “I just want to stay in the forest.”

Masaki agrees. “Tonight might be a great night to stay there. But don’t sleep right at the meeting spot, just in case they’re setting up an ambush.”

Amber nods. “Okay, I will go to Lord Weiss’s manor to make sure Wolfgang gets home safely—and perhaps assist him with giving information to Lord Weiss, because Count Wolfgang cannot remember the simplest of details sometimes.” She smirks. “Also, the Scotch is pretty good over there, so I think I will go.”

Masaki warns, “Just remember, you already drank some beer.”

Amber waves him off. “That was just disgusting beer. I puked most of it out, so my alcohol level is fine.”

Ash shakes her head. “I didn’t realize it was that bad with Wolfie. I mean, I thought he was old, but not that old that he just doesn’t remember things…”

“I have no clue how old he is,” Amber says bluntly. “I don’t care. He’s older than me.”

Ash smiles. “It’s good that you’re helping him.”

Amber straightens her coat. “Well, I will be off to Lord Weiss’s manor. I will see you at dawn at the eastern gate.”

“Yeah, a little before dawn,” Masaki reminds them. “Let’s say 30 minutes pre-dawn.”

“Okay, okay, that is completely fine,” Amber says, heading out. “I will walk towards Lord Weiss’s manor. See you!”

“See you later, Ambi,” Ash calls after her.

---

Daiki, Ash, and Masaki walk toward the North Gate. Daiki says little; he just focuses on getting outside the city. Meanwhile, Ash strums a little walking tune on her lute. The music is soft, casual. It’s not her best, but it fits the evening’s lazy pace.

As the group passes through the Northern Gate, Masaki notices something strange: Ash’s form shifts. Daiki has seen it before, back when they first entered the city. Once outside, Daiki breathes deep, stretching his arms wide. “Oh yes—ahh,” he sighs. It’s darker here; the torches near the city provide only a little light. Beyond the gates, cobblestone roads stretch out into the night, leading toward the forest and a scattering of small villages. The main forest lies about a half-hour’s walk away.

They decide to head toward the forest. Ash grins and says, “You know, you can stay with us, it’s pretty chill.” Masaki hesitates, mentioning he doesn’t have a bedroll, but Ash laughs. “There’s a lot of moss! We can ask a tree to provide for you.” Masaki chuckles but admits he needs to send a message to Wolfgang first.

After a bit of walking, they search for a good camping spot. Daiki takes charge, his demeanor shifting — suddenly more confident, more at home. “Let’s see… where are the signs?” he says, looking around, gathering food, setting up shelter. With his help, they quickly find a perfect clearing: a soft patch of land near a gentle brook, sheltered under large overhanging branches.

Daiki beams as he helps set up the camp, happy and relaxed. Masaki then scribbles a quick note for Wolfgang and Amber: “Meet us at the Eastern Gate an hour before dawn.” He ties it to his familiar’s paw — a large winged cat, a Tressim. He sends it off, commanding, “Bring this to the Fishing Kingfisher!”

The Tressim flaps into the sky, momentarily distracted by a passing bug before remembering its task and flying on.

Daiki stands quietly, a soft smile on his face. “I miss the whispers of the trees,” he says.
Ash, always attuned to nature, replies, “Do you hear the winds and the rain falling on the leaves? The winds moving the trees?”
Tachibana snickers. “Hippies.”

Daiki chuckles. “Actually, my mom used to sing me a song about the wind whispering things. It’s really nice.”
Ash lights up. “I would love to hear that one day, Daiki.”
Daiki nods warmly. “I can do that. One day, yes.”

Tachibana’s expression shifts, thoughtful. “Speaking of music and songs, I actually had something I need your help with… related to music.”
Ash immediately offers, “I can help. What do you want?”
Tachibana pulls out a large tome, flipping through its pages. “It’s full of images and sheet music, written in Elvish. I know Daiki can read it.”
Ash squints. “Elvish…”

Finding a specific section, Tachibana explains, “There’s this dance… it doesn’t feel right for my body. I’m struggling with the transitions between moves.” He draws his sword and begins mimicking the poses shown in the book, trying to flow from one stance to another. The movements are stiff, unsure.

“Could you maybe play this music?” he asks Ash. “Maybe hearing it will help me understand how it’s supposed to feel.”
Ash laughs gently. “Oh my god, Bana, I didn’t know you could dance!”
“It’s not really a dance. It’s called the Katakana,” Tachibana explains. “It’s an art form.”
“Any dancing is an art form. I can definitely try to play it,” Ash says eagerly. “Do you have a preferred instrument?”
“Maybe a pan flute,” Tachibana suggests.

Ash pulls a pan flute from her pack and tests a few notes, then starts practicing the piece. She performs it, not perfectly, but well enough to capture the spirit. “It’s my first time. There’s no wrong notes in music, just… slightly different ones,” she says with a grin.

Masaki listens carefully, adjusting his movements to the music. He pays attention to the tempo, the accents, striking poses at the crescendos. Sometimes Ash slips on a note, quickly correcting herself with a laugh.

“This is actually so helpful,” Masaki says, clearly relieved.
“Of course. Music is meant to be made and enjoyed together,” Ash replies warmly.

Daiki watches quietly from the side, genuinely relaxed. He puts down his belongings—a rare sight—and slowly sways to the rhythm, a big smile on his face. It’s the first time he truly looks at ease, moving almost like a tree dancing in a gentle breeze.

Masaki asks Ash to repeat parts of the piece several times. At one point, he suggests, “Do you have something like a drum?”
Ash digs into her bag, pulling out a shaker and tapping rhythmically on a tree stump and the back of her lyre, mixing sounds with the pan flute.

Daiki offers shyly, “Is there anything I can help with?”
Ash hands him a horn. “Here, it’s super simple. You just blow into it like this,” she demonstrates, making a clean note.

Daiki tries. The sound that comes out is rough, but at least it’s sound. They all laugh, and Ash encourages him, still weaving music from her flute and shaker.

As evening falls, Tachibana claps his hands once. “It’s getting late. We need to get up early tomorrow, so let’s call it a day. Thanks for the help.”
Ash beams. “Of course, Bana! Anytime you need music for training, I’m there. I have so many ideas—maybe even birds joining in during the day!”

Tachibana smiles. “Maybe one day I’ll join in properly.”
Ash immediately starts jotting down notes for future songs, excitement brimming.

As they settle down, Tachibana asks, “Have you two ever kept watch before when camping?”
Ash shrugs. “I think nature just provides for us.”
Tachibana shakes his head. “It might be good to set up a watch, especially with goblins around.”
Daiki agrees. “I don’t mind keeping watch.”
“Perfect. I’ll wake you when it’s your turn,” Tachibana says.

Before Daiki curls up to sleep under his small canopy, he approaches Tachibana and murmurs in Elvish, “音楽は美しいです。”
Tachibana smiles. “Thank you.”

---

Amber Ablaze keeps to the wider streets, avoiding the small alleyways. In the corner of her eye, she catches a movement in the shadows. She hesitates, is she going after it? She isn’t drunk—most of the alcohol, she threw out earlier—and with a clear mind, she decides to ignore the movement, though she casts a wary glance over her shoulder. She doesn’t trust it.

Pressing forward, Amber moves into the inner city. The streets grow calmer, almost empty. Occasionally, a tiefling or a human crosses her path, and once, a gnome scurries by. She spots a servant girl, likely from one of the noble houses, but nothing about them stands out. The shadow from earlier never reappears.

Finally, she reaches Lord Weiss’s manor, safe and alone.

“I should have gone after it,” she says under her breath.

---

The door opens, and a butler greets Wolfgang. “Yes, how can I help you?” he asks.

“Good night. Lord Wise and I, the Count Rüppelshammer, have agreed to spend the night together,” Wolfgang says.

“Ah, yes, he told me you would come. Let me take you to his room. Please follow me,” the butler replies.

“And with whom do I have the pleasure?” Wolfgang asks.

“The name is James. James Baggins. But you can just call me James,” the butler answers.

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Baggins.”

“James is fine,” the butler insists, closing the door behind them and leading Wolfgang through a different, lavish living room. Paintings line the walls—one of Wolfgang’s father, a younger Talos Kane, Lord Wise himself, and a woman in holy garb with blonde hair and glasses. In another painting, they battle a green dragon.

Wolfgang admires the scene as they approach a fireplace. Beside it, Lord Wise sits in a plush chair, already pouring two glasses of fine scotch. “Ah, young Wolfgang, please join me,” he says warmly.

Wolfgang bows slightly. “Lord Wise, such a pleasure meeting you tonight in this room full of history and acquaintances. I’d love to hear more straight away.”

“Of course,” Lord Wise says. “We’ve got the entire evening for that.”

Wolfgang asks about Lord Wise’s well-being and explains his struggle: forming a chaotic adventuring party, dealing with members from all walks of life—law enforcement, plant folk, even someone with a criminal background. He admits he doubts whether he belongs with them.

Lord Wise listens carefully. “I understand completely. Maybe I should tell you my story,” he offers.

Wolfgang nods eagerly. He confesses that his father, the Count, only ever shared superficial tales of adventure, and he longs to know more, especially after seeing the painting of the green dragon.

Lord Wise smiles. “First, what do you think of me?” he asks.

Wolfgang hesitates, then says, “Your wisdom seems immense, and you’ve done well in life.”

“Do you think I’ve always been a noble?” Lord Wise presses.

Wolfgang admits he assumes so.

“Actually, no,” Lord Wise says, laughing. “I came from the streets.”

He tells Wolfgang about his humble beginnings as a mercenary in Evermere, his friendship with Delora Lights—the woman in the painting—and how they met Wolfgang’s father. “Your father arrived with 50 gold and lost it all within a week,” Lord Wise says. “We found him sleeping on the streets.”

Wolfgang is stunned but listens intently as Lord Wise recounts how they took his father in. The Count had to learn to live modestly—sleeping in forests, staying in cheap inns, letting go of noble pride.

Wolfgang chuckles. “I hope my adventures don’t cost me my dignity,” he jokes.

Lord Wise smiles. “That’s what adventuring is. Stepping out of your comfort zone.”

Wolfgang mentions Ashira’s bluntness and how Amber Ablaze calls him “Wolfie,” clearly amused.

Lord Wise laughs. “We had a nickname for your father too. Rupi.”

“Because of the gems on his clothing?” Wolfgang guesses.

“Yes, and the holes where the gems used to be after he sold them,” Lord Wise says, chuckling.

The evening deepens. Lord Wise recounts how their group saved Queen Alera—then just close to the king—from a mage’s trap involving a green gem. He points at a magnificent gem on a nearby desk. “We imprisoned the green dragon inside this gem,” he explains. That feat earned them rewards: Lord Wise’s lordship, Talos’s wealth, and Wolfgang’s family’s rise in esteem.

Wolfgang begins to understand his family’s legacy more deeply. He speaks of Amber’s loyalty and hopes she becomes an equal part of their group after their mercenary work.

Lord Wise encourages him, then asks where Wolfgang’s companions are. Wolfgang admits they are at the Peanut Pub, a place he avoids.

Lord Wise chuckles. “Did you know your father once went there? He even won the Peanut Challenge!”

Wolfgang, incredulous, learns about the bizarre tradition involving peanuts, hammers, and terrible ale. It explains why there is always a bowl of peanuts at the Citadel.

As the fire crackles, Wolfgang looks at his ring—a blue walnut-shaped gem—and quietly reveals that his great-uncle’s spirit resides within it, guiding him as punishment for some unknown sin.

Lord Wise leans closer, listening, as the night stretches on, filled with stories, history, and a new understanding and insights.

James enters the room. “Miss Amber Ablaze is here to see the two of you,” he announces.

Wolfgang, finishing a thought, says, “Send a letter to my father with a brief update of the first days here in Evermere when I leave town. Miss Ablaze is already here.” Lordswise glances up; it’s already past ten o’clock.

“Oh, Lord Wise,” Wolfgang continues, “it would be great for me to introduce Miss Ablaze. She would love the paintings and the stories.”

“We’ve already met. Yes, yes,” Lord Wise replies.

Wolfgang nods. “James, please bring her forward.”

At that moment, Amber arrives at the door. “Bonsoir, Wolfgang. Bonsoir, Lord Wise,” she greets brightly.

Wolfgang smiles. “Miss Ablaze, we have had a great night. We shared some stories with my father—he’s here. You know, twenty-five years ago, they fought a green dragon and saved the city. I’ve also learned about the peanut pub and the peanut challenge.” Wolfgang sounds enthusiastic and passionate recalling all he has learned about his father tonight. 

“Oui, I did that tonight,” Amber explains. “I hope I’m not reeking of any disgusting ale. I’m so sorry.”

“A little bit,” Lord Wise admits, “but that’s okay.”

Amber laughs it off. “I won’t tell you everything… maybe Wolfgang, I’ll tell you later.”

Wolfgang chuckles. “No, not tonight. Later on, when we return to the city maybe.”

Amber grins. “Bien sûr, monsieur. If you want to go, I’m happy to accompany you sometime. But we also have to pay attention.”

Wolfgang asks, “Did you see the initials of my father in the scriptures? He won the peanut challenge. Did you win, Miss Ablaze?”

“No, I came in second,” Amber admits. “I saw the table… What was his complete name? There were only initials…”

Wolfgang frowns, trying to remember. “His name is Attacus Rüppelshammer.”

Amber tries to recall if she saw the initials but ultimately shakes her head. “I’m sorry, monsieur. I do not remember initials ‘AR’ on the table.”

Wolfgang thanks her, and Amber continues, mentioning a goblin named Snailbrain she met. She describes a strange conversation about mines, complicated marriages, and a goblin’s alcoholism.

When Lord Wise asks about the mines, Amber quickly checks her notes. “South Branch Quarry,” she says. Lord Wise nods; that mine doesn’t belong to him.

Wolfgang, curious, asks, “Am I correct to understand there are legal goblins employed in this city?”

Amber confirms. “Oui. He’s a legal goblin. Lives near the old peanut pub. He has an alcohol problem, yes, but no ties to illegal activity as far as I know. Nasaki did most of the talking.”

Wolfgang raises a brow. “So Mr. Masaki was in the peanut pub as well?”

Amber nods. “Oui. But no red cloak. Wore a man bun. Looked very different.”

They agree to meet before dawn at the Eastern Gate. Wolfgang suggests, with a wink to Lord Wise, that they return to their chambers for a proper rest.

Amber lists their preparations: tent, healing kit, bedrolls, and rations Daiki provides. “We are going with the five of us.”

Wolfgang thanks her and turns back to Lord Wise, praising the evening. “It was an absolute pleasure conversating about past, present, and future. I hope to return the favor when you visit Rüppelshammer Citadel.”

Lord Wise responds warmly, “If I can ever be of help, please let me know.”

Before they leave, Amber asks about the mines Lord Wise currently owns. He lists them briefly, mentioning a few mines, and promises more details later. Amber notes them in her book.

She asks, “Do you have legal goblins working there?”

“A couple, yes,” Lord Wise confirms. “They are well treated.”

Amber follows up, curious who owns the South Branch Quarry. Lord Wise answers, “Marriott Gleamwitch.”

She quickly records the name and location. They agree not to visit so late at night.

With parting words and thanks, James escorts them out to the carriage that will bring them back to the Fishing Kingfisher.

---

Wolfgang finds Montgomery at the desk and says, “We will be leaving tomorrow before dawn, which means we have to settle the bill preferably tonight. I’m glad I can find you already here.”

Montgomery nods. “Ah, of course. Just give me one second.” He rummages behind the desk and produces a finely prepared bill, adorned with a small Kingfisher bird and titled The Fishing Kingfisher, Inner North District of Evermere. The bill reads: Count Wolfgang Rüppelshammer — two rooms, three nights — 35 gold pieces and 5 silver pieces.

Montgomery continues, listing the additional charges: “The meeting room for eight hours, eight gold pieces; message service, one gold piece; six meals, six gold pieces; service for guests, five silver pieces; laundry and sundries, two silver pieces. I’ve rounded it down to a nice even 50 gold pieces.”

“Good night… good night… fifty gold pieces, okay,” Wolfgang mutters as he instinctively reaches for his purse. He hesitates, realizing something is off.

Wolfgang sighs. “Mr. Montgomery, I’m glad we can meet here and not with other staff. I’m afraid I don’t have fifty gold pieces with me, but I’m sure my father, the Count of the Citadel, Lord Rüppelshammer, will provide the remaining amount.”

Montgomery nods. “I will send him the request. How much are you giving me now?”

Wolfgang hands over 34 gold pieces, keeping his silver.

Nearby, Amber watches the scene unfold. She considers paying herself — after all, she has 50 gold pieces — but decides against it. “If he’s going to run to daddy, I’m not going to step in,” she thinks.

Montgomery accepts the payment. “I’ll request the last 16 gold pieces from your father.”

Wolfgang adds, “And if the message doesn’t come through, Lord Wise will prepay these accounts. Thank you.”

After the formalities, Wolfgang smiles. “It was a pleasure staying with you.”

Montgomery smiles thinly. “It was a pleasure having you… most of the time. Good luck on your errands tomorrow.”

“We’ll definitely think about staying here again,” Wolfgang says, before asking one more favor: “Could you arrange a waking service a little before sunrise?”

“Of course,” Montgomery replies.

Just then, Montgomery hands Wolfgang a message delivered by an unusual winged cat. Masaki’s handwriting reads: Meet us at the Eastern Gate one hour before dawn.

Wolfgang quickly calculates the time and confirms it’s about a fifteen-minute walk. He asks to be woken up one and a half hours before sunrise. Montgomery assures him it will be arranged.

Finally, Wolfgang thanks him once more. “Give my regards to Isaac.”

“I will, when he wakes. It’s late for him,” Montgomery says warmly.

Wolfgang nods. “I’m sure he will become a great asset to the fishing industry.”

Satisfied, Wolfgang and Amber retreat to their rooms. Wolfgang decides against sending any more messages that night. “I’ll find a better moment to speak to my brother or grandfather later,” he thinks. For now, they both head straight to bed, preparing for an early morning.

---

During the night watch, the group stays alert, though the atmosphere is mostly calm. Masaki, having finished his watch, notices his familiar returning, content as if it completed its task. He offers some snacks to it, gently petting the creature as it spins happily around him. “Good kitty,” he murmurs. Eventually, Masaki falls into a trance and wakes Daiki for his turn.

Daiki stirs from his slumber, greeting Masaki. “Hello, is my time yet?” he asks. He assures him it’s his turn and wishes him a safe watch, before slipping into his meditative state.

The forest remains quiet as Daiki keeps watch. A few animals pass by—a deer, a badger, and a fleeting bear that turns out to be just a bush. Growing tired, Daiki decides it’s time to wake Ash. He approaches her silently, gently stroking her shoulder to rouse her. “It’s your turn. You missed some lovely deer and a badger, and that bush over there? No bear, just a bush.”

Ash wakes, nodding as she prepares to take her watch. “Okay, thanks for letting me know. I’m ready,” she says, settling into position and grabbing her horn, prepared for any trouble. Daiki, now exhausted, falls asleep immediately.

The night passes slowly, and soon Ash begins to feel the weight of fatigue. Just as she’s on the brink of slipping into slumber, a loud, hurried rustling catches her attention. She squints into the dark and soon spots a large figure running in the clearing, surrounded by a swarm of enormous honeybees. The figure—a scraggly man with unkempt hair and a thick beard—seems to be fleeing the bees. Ash’s eyes widen in disbelief. “What?” she mutters, instinctively reaching for her horn and sounding it.

The blast of the horn wakes Daiki and Tachibana, who are both semi-conscious. “What’s going on?” Daiki asks, confused. They can’t see Ash, but the sound of the horn reaches their ears, leading them to take action.

Ash, determined to help, rushes towards the man. She positions herself between him and the bees, attempting to calm the swarming insects with some soft, calming music. Meanwhile, Daiki and Tachibana, now fully awake, begin running in the direction of the horn’s sound.

“Hayaku, hayaku!” Tachibana urges Daiki as they race toward the clearing. Ash stands her ground, ready to confront the bees, but the situation quickly escalates. Tachibana spots the bees and immediately casts Chromatic Orb, launching a beam of frost at the swarm, while Daiki follows up with a Fog Cloud, hoping to disorient the bees.

The fog envelops the area, leaving everyone blind, but the bees continue to attack. The man, struggling with his lantern and an axe on his back, does little but try to keep safe. In the midst of the chaos, Daiki notices two bees pulling away, but one remains agitated and stings Ash, who manages to resist the full force of the poison. Despite her discomfort, she retaliates with a harsh insult, trying to turn the bees away.

The fight rages on as Tachibana, determined to protect Ash, strikes one of the bees with a powerful blow, cutting off one of its wings. He moves in for the kill, ending the bee’s suffering with a clean strike. “There, done,” he mutters, moving to Ash’s side to signal to the others that the bees must go.

The remaining bees are still a threat, but Daiki works his magic, casting a spell to put one of the bees to sleep. “He’s asleep now. Just let him go when he wakes up,” Daiki urges, trying to calm the group.

Ash is curious about the man who was chased by bees. She turns to him and asks, “What happened? Why are you running?” The man, grinning, replies, “Honey, honey, tastes good.” Ash chuckles, “You can call me Ash, but honey works too.” He walks towards her, and she holds up her hand, “Whoa, hold on there, partner. But the honey you’ve got…”

He interrupts, “No.” Ash grins, “You’re not as dangerous, right? Bees get really relaxed if you add a little smoke.” The man nods, “I will remember that. Maybe.”

“They were some big bees,” Ash comments. “Yes, very big,” he agrees. He hands her a bottle of honey, offering a few more to the others, including Masaki.

“Thank you, dear,” she says, taking her bottle. Masaki also accepts his.

As they all start walking away, Ash talks about how everything tastes better with honey. “Should we go away? I want to get away from these bees,” the man says. Daiki mutters, “That sounds smart,” and starts moving off, “I will.”

Daiki walks over to a slain bee, gathering its parts and placing them next to another so it can bring the fallen one back to the hive. “Let’s go, let’s go,” he urges, “He might wake up soon.”

The man explains as they continue walking towards their camp, “This honey used to be for medicine and tastes good.” Ash nods, “That’s so nice.”

The man offers to show them how to use the honey. “Yeah,” Ash responds, intrigued. Tachibana agrees. He demonstrates, explaining that with a share of honey, they can tend their wounds.

Tachibana asks the name of the honey-man. “P-O-K-O,” the man replies. 

Tachibana, still curious, asks, “Where do you live?” Poko replies, “Nearby.” Ash cuts in, “Stop interrogating him, he just wants to leave. Come on, we need to get some sleep.” The man waves, “Bye,” as he heads back into the forest, lantern in hand.

Tachibana watches him go, then asks his familiar to follow him. The familiar tracks the man for about 10-15 minutes, eventually seeing him climb into a treehouse. The night remains uneventful after that.

---

At 7 o’clock, everyone except for Daiki and Masaki arrives at the East Gate. Meanwhile, Masaki and Daiki make their way to the edge of the forest from the other side. Daiki notices something—a goblin, lying on a tree stump with a peculiar bubble coming in and out of its nose.

“That’s cute,” Daiki remarks.

Masaki agrees, sitting next to the goblin and waiting for the others to arrive. “I’ll just wait here,” he says, settling down.

“Do you want breakfast?” Daiki offers, casually growing some berries in his hand and handing one over.

Masaki eats five berries without hesitation. “You can eat five?” Daiki reacts surprised.

“They’re just nice and tasty,” Masaki explains, smiling.

Meanwhile, Wolfgang, Amber, and Ash arrive at the East Gate. Ash is distracted, playing music, while Amber and Wolfgang exchange glances.

Wolfgang speaks up. “I noticed Masaki and Daiki aren’t with you. What’s the plan?”

Ash, a bit unsure, shrugs. “I was told to meet you here, but I’m not really sure what’s going on.”

Amber looks around. “Well, we’re supposed to meet in the forest.”

Ash eagerly agrees, “Let’s go!” Amber nods, and the group sets off toward the forest. Around 7:30, everyone gathers at the same spot.

Wolfgang takes the chance to ask Ashira, “How was the peanut pub challenge?”

Ash grins, “It was amazing! Amber did great, even if she came in second. I’m writing a song about it!”

Amber rolls her eyes but smiles. “Oh wow.”

As they walk, Daiki explains the rarity of a plant they pass—a secret leaf, known for blooming only in the rain. He collects a few leaves carefully, planning to make a potion with them later. “It’s an anti-lying potion,” he explains.

“I’ve never heard of this plant,” Wolfgang comments, intrigued.

They continue walking deeper into the woods, and soon, Daiki and Wolfgang notice something off in the distance—scratches in the bark of a tree. Daiki’s instincts kick in. “There’s danger ahead. A goblin camp.”

Wolfgang, acknowledging the danger, turns to the group. “We’re headed straight toward it, I think.”

Amber gestures for Daiki to stay quiet. “We need to learn what’s going on. Let’s keep moving.”

The group remains alert as they walk further. Eventually, they hear movement in the woods, and Daiki whispers to the others to be on guard. Suddenly, two goblins emerge from the shadows, blocking their path.

One of the goblins speaks in goblinoid, while the larger one pulls out a knife and kills the smaller goblin. Turning to the group, the larger goblin switches to Common. “Who are you? What do you want? Our boss will make a nice meal out of you.”

“We’re guests of Bait,” Wolfgang responds coolly, “We’re here to meet your boss.”

One of the goblins interrupts their musings. “Hey, put your weapons down and come with us! You’re now our prisoners.”

“Nope,” Daiki responds immediately, shaking his head. But Masaki, ever the diplomatic one, simply shrugs. “Sure, we’ll go with them.”

The rest of the group starts to follow, though Amber protests. “I am nobody’s prisoner, let me tell you that.”

“Yeah, no need to tie us up,” Tachibana says, his tone firm. “We’re here to talk with your boss.”

Despite this, the goblins begin to tie their arms, but Daiki, ever the clever one, uses vines from his staff to bind himself. “I tied myself up, let’s go,” he says with a grin.

Amber, understanding the fire in her own spirit, decides not to resist. She knows any ropes would burn away when she bursts into flames.  

Ash, however, isn’t so quick to comply. “Well, normally I’d talk and flirt a little more, but sure, tie me up,” she jokes reluctantly. The goblins proceed, but Ash can’t help but taunt them. “How mad do you think your boss will be when he finds out you wasted two of his minutes deciding if you should bring us to him?”

The tension builds as the goblins, frustrated by the group’s resistance and taunts, continue their work. As Daiki, Masaki, and Ash are tied up, Amber stands ready, but she quickly realizes that Wolfgang is not having any of it. He refuses to be tied to the post. “I’d rather talk to your boss,” he insists.

Soon enough, the group is brought into the goblin camp, which is filled with more goblins than they can count. They’re led to a tent, where the goblins attempt to tie them to wooden posts.

Wolfgang tries again, offering a reasoned plea. “Let us move to your boss instead of being tied here.”

But the goblins insist. “You wait. Spine will come to you.”

“Not necessary,” Wolfgang protests. “We’ll come to him.”

The goblins, unyielding, tie them up anyway. Masaki and Daiki accept their fate without much resistance. Ash, still defiant, continues to taunt them. “You’re wasting his time, you know.”

But the goblins don’t seem to care. One of them even raises a dagger, threatening Ash. “Maybe I eat you first,” he sneers.

Ash meets his gaze with a smirk. “Ooh, are you the boss now? Just because you’ve got a knife?”

Despite the tension, the goblins’ leader—known only as Spine—hasn’t arrived yet. Amber watches the goblins closely, calculating her next move. One of the goblins motions to another, ordering them to take Ash with him. “You follow me,” he demands. As she’s led out of the tent, Daiki, tired of waiting, suddenly disappears in a misty step, reappearing beside Ash. “I’ll accompany this lady, whether you like it or not,” he declares, his voice calm but firm. 

The group follows the goblin guide north, weaving through the camp until they reach the largest tent in the city. In front of it sits the biggest goblin they have ever seen—still short by human standards, but unusually muscled and holding a massive axe. A small skull dangles from the axe’s end, and another serves as his codpiece. His black hair and pointed ears give him a wild look.This is Spine Barneau, the goblin leader.

“Ew,” Daiki mutters.
“That’s a cutie,” Tachibana says, noticing a pet spider clinging to one goblin nearby.

The large goblin eyes them suspiciously. “Who are these?” he demands.

“They came looking for you,” their guide Zoglu explains. “They wanted to talk.”

The goblin grins, revealing sharp teeth. “What do you want, besides getting eaten?”

Ash steps forward. “We don’t want to get eaten. We just want to talk.”

Daiki, a little wary, says, “We just want to know why you’re attacking the city.”

Spine laughs. “I could tell you… but why would I?”

Ash presses, “Isn’t this the part where you tell us your entire plan?”

“You want the plan?” the goblin sneers. “Fight for it.”

Ash protests, “Come on, just tell us the plan.”

The goblin remains unmoved. “Fight for it.”

Daiki adds, “Well, we actually have someone very strong in the tent. She’s really big and fiery. Maybe you want to fight her? She’s also really good at the peanut challenge.”

The goblin’s eyes light up. “Prepare the pits, boys! Ready for a fight!”

Ash tries once more. “Can’t we just talk this out? I mean, come on.”

“I’ll give answers if she fights for them,” the goblin insists.

Ash sighs. “It would be a shame if she died. I like her so much.”

The goblins hustle the group into the tent to prepare. The deal is simple: answers in exchange for survival. One versus one. No negotiation.

Ash mutters, “Let’s discuss that later,” but it’s too late. Zoglu, the goblin, leads them inside, shouting, “Come with me, come with me!” Meanwhile, Daiki surveys the ‘pit’—not a real pit but more like a small arena surrounded by stands.

“So, what are you going to do? Fight the big fire lady?” Daiki asks. He quickly suggests, “Wait, I have a better idea. What if we do five versus five?”

But the leader shakes his head firmly. “One versus one. I’m the fighter here.”

Ash agrees. “I think one versus one is better, Daiki.”

At the tent, Zoglu explains, “Fire Lady strong. She fights Spine for answers. She wins — you go, you get answers. She loses — we eat you all.”

Ash glares at Daiki. “I made a deal,” she says.

Amber spins around. “Sorry, you volunteered me in exchange for all our lives? Are you fucking kidding me?”

“You can do it, Ambs,” Ash insists. “Come on, yesterday you learned what it was like to lose. Now you can win.”

Wolfgang adds, “I’m sure you’ll manage, Miss Ablaze.”

Daiki nods. “We believe in you.”

As the goblins work on the pit, the group remains under close watch — about fifteen goblins, Zoglu among them. Some of the party members are tied up. Amber is tied, while Daiki and Ashira are free. At Masaki’s request, Daiki openly begins untying him, despite every goblin watching.

Amber turns to Wolfgang. “When you see the opportunity, you fly, okay?”

“You still owe me ten days of protection,” Wolfgang says dryly. “If you die, I will find your brother and demand the rest.”

Amber smirks. “Deal.”

The tent has a few pillars, one central, and others around. Daiki crouches to the ground. With a quiet Elvish prayer, “Shodatsu,” he touches the earth. Small spiny plants sprout at the entrance — a hidden trap with Spike Growth, just in case.

Meanwhile, Masaki, using the distraction, sends Amber a whispered message: I will not let you fight alone. Fury will never forgive me if something happens to you.

Amber responds quickly: Only when it’s most dire.

Ash takes Amber’s hand, meeting her eyes. “Ambs, you can do this. I know you’ve got this in you.” She casts Aid, boosting Amber, Daiki, and Bana with extra strength. Not stopping there, she grants them Bardic Inspiration and follows up with Mantle of Inspiration, stacking even more magical support.

“You’re the beast, Ambs,” Ash cheers. “You’re the fireball. You just eat it whole.”

Amber breathes a little easier under the wave of encouragement. “Dang, you made me buff as hell,” she mutters, half-laughing.

Wolfgang manages to persuade a goblin to untie him. He walks to Amber, grips her shoulders firmly, and says, “Ms. Blaze, I have full confidence in you,” before casting Guidance.

Zoglu claps his hands. “Ready? One minute!”

Daiki hesitates, realizing his plan isn’t going exactly as he imagined. He is whipping out a thorn whip and yanks a goblin closer, dragging it across the spike growth trap he set outside the tent entrance. He pulls a goblin over the spikes, wounding it badly. The wounded goblin is dragged closer and quickly dies from the injuries. 

The other goblins, alarmed by the sudden death, draw their weapons and point them at Daiki. He holds up his hands. Daiki shrugs, offering a sheepish, “Sorry, just a slip of hand. I just wanted him to come closer.”

One goblin shoves Daiki toward the tent entrance, forcing him through the spike growth. He grits his teeth in agony. Forced outside, Daiki watches as the goblins rip a new exit in the tent. They yell for him to come back in. “So I have to go back in now?” Daiki asks, resigned. The goblins feel reassured and take the new-made exit, leading the group toward a nearby stadium. The crowd thickens, and in the chaos, the party gets separated: Ashira and Masaki are pushed to the left, Daiki and Wolfgang to the right, and Amber deeper into the stadium.

All around them, goblins chant, “Fight! Fight! Fight!” The atmosphere is tense and oppressive.

Suddenly, the crowd falls silent as a larger goblin steps forward. Though still medium-sized, he carries a massive, gleaming greataxe—an unusual weapon among the goblins’ usual cheap blades. The axe gleams ominously under the light as the goblin advances – Spine Barneau has entered the fighting pit.

The goblins erupt again into cheers, surrounding the separated party members. Ashira joins in the chant, shouting enthusiastically, “Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!”