NPC Introduction (Shopkeepers)

After the Swallowtail Festival, a grim atmosphere was hanging over Sandpoint.
For the four friends (Finn, Sagerius, Bartel, Fletcher) it was mitigated a little by Lord Aldern's gratitude as he had bought each a riding horse.
None have ever owned something of equal value and so they thanked him profoundly. The Spellthief and Wizard took him up on his offer to go boar hunting, while the others went to see the Sheriff.

Sheriff Hemlock was at the cathedral with several of his men.
Outside Father Zantus and his clergy were attending the wounded from the night before.

Barthel (Bard) and Finn (Favored Soul) spoke with Hemlock about recent events and Finn suggested that it might all have been a distraction.
Not knowing for what reason and by whose leadership, Belor Hemlock asked them to go and question any in town they think might have been a target.

While they went out, Belor send word for Shalelu Andosana.

Together the two friends made a short list and went door to door, first stopping at the jeweler.
Maver Kesk (Jeweler, married to Pennae) was very open to them.
His six guards were in the store the whole time, and nothing of interest has happened.
He thanked them for their concern.

The same story at the armory. Savah Bevaniky had suffered no damages, and nothing was stolen. She did recognize them though, as Local Heroes, and offered all four a discount on their first purchase.

At the Red Dog Smithy they met Das Korvut. Known by many for his bad temper, Barthel and Finn however, had never met the man.
They did now..
Das was foul-mouthed and cut them off before they could explain Hemlock had asked them to investigate.
Maybe if they'd known about his experience with Chopper, they would have been more understanding..

Then they went to the general store, owned by Ven Vinder.
Distracted by the presence of his youngest daughter (Shayliss) they learned that his shop wasn't targeted either.
But if they wanted to uncover injustice Ven explained that after dark unjust things happened at the Lumber Mill.

Finn and Barthel returned to Hemlock later that day and told what they've found out (nothing).

They reconnected with Sagerius and Fletcher and changed for the feast.