Operation: Graystone #2

[GM Mad]

Operation: Graystone #2

April 10th, CR 569

Lucyus visits the mastery armory at the Crossroads Temple of Heironeous. He is Dom Cozen and is in his forties. Dom notes Lucyus struggling with the weight of the chain mail.

Reaching into his money pouch, Lucyus takes out the gold which the master blacksmith is asking for and hands it to him. “Thank you. It is a bit heavier than I am used too but I am sure I will grow into it,” he says with a slight grin, his blue eyes sparkling with mirth.

“You're still young, lad,” the blacksmith notes. “Need to put some muscles on those shoulders! The chain mail weights about forty pounds. The padding is there to keep your shoulders from bein' cut up.”

“Your work is a marvel. Curiosity, how much would you ask for a suit of Plate mail?”

“Plate mail is far beyond your coin purse right now, young paladin," Dom notes. “It starts at 600 gold and takes many weeks to craft. Magical armor, that's what ye be wantin'! Magical armor is light as a feather it is! Good luck findin' some!”

Elsewhere, several of the Squad have dinner at the Blushing Maiden Inn. For dinner this evening the Inn is having honey glazed ham with buttered red potatoes and green beans along with fresh bread. The meal is very good and satisfying.


April 11th, CR 569

Next morning after breakfast, Wyvern Squad is taken to a stables near their barracks. Two other adventuring squads are there as well. They are also picking out mounts. You'll find out that they are Minotaur Squad and Ogre Squad. You'll note that some of the other people you saw in the registration line the day before are among these groups.

After mounting up, Sergeant Traken leads you deeper into the Military District. A huge open plaza is adjacent to the stables and it is filled with hundreds of foot soldiers. As the name suggests, these soldiers are not mounted. From what you can see they wear leather armor and carry short swords.

After a short wait, the procession starts to move. You ride out of the southern gates and out onto the King's Road from the military district. The road has been cleared of other traffic, but hundreds of Crossroads citizens line the streets cheering their army on.

The pace is a leisurely one as the foot soldiers can only move so fast. Before long you ride out the southern entrance to Crossroads and the plains beyond. The spectators start to thin out until they disappear all together. The procession turns in a southeastern direction and follows a smaller road that leads directly to Fort Graystone. The base of the mountains are to the left as you ride along.

[GM Mad]

Once clear of the city you can make out just how large of a group you are traveling with. A unit of heavy cavalry is leading the way. Behind it is a small group of armored men. Some have their lances pointed up with flags flying at the tip. Officers and other important people no doubt.

Behind these men come the foot soldiers. There are hundreds of them, perhaps as many as five hundred! Mixed in on either side of the foot soldiers are units of light cavalry. Bringing up the rear of the whole procession is the adventurer squads. Lucyus spots Durn leading a unit of Heironeous followers among the riders of the procession. Wimzy notes that Selinda is also present leading a group of Azrellians accompanying the army as a healing unit.

The rain from the day before has cleared out and today is bright and sunny. The temperature is warmer and reaches into the low fifties and is pleasant. Many take this as a sign that this campaign will be a successful one.

About four hours into the trip, the procession comes to a halt. Lunch is had and the riders can dismount and stretch their legs. The foot men can sit for a time. After about 45 minutes of rest, the procession is on the move once more.

The afternoon winds on during your casual trip. Fort Graystone starts to appear up ahead. It's hard to make out at first, but becomes clearer as you get closer. As it approaches the fort, the road you are traveling on splits into two. Each fork passes through a different gatehouse to reach inside the fort. The outer walls of the fort are thirty feet high with its six towers going higher. You can spot guards walking the battlements overhead. Many eyes in the fort are checking out the new arrivals.

After about an eight hour trip, the procession enters Fort Graystone. Once through the gatehouse, you enter into a huge courtyard measuring about seventy feet deep and over two hundred feet wide. Further ahead is another wall with another pair of gatehouses. This wall is fifty feet high with six more towers going up even higher. From what can be glimpsed behind this inner wall is yet another courtyard with the fort's outer wall at the far end. From there the road continues on an easterly path towards the distant Gateway.

At this point the various units making up the procession are split up. The foot soldiers continue on and pass through the inner gatehouses and are soon out of sight. The light cavalry are directed to the stables and buildings on the left hand side of the first courtyard. The armored riders with the flags on their lances go in this same direction.

Wyvern Squad, along with Minotaur Squad and Ogre Squad are sent to the right side of the courtyard and are directed to the western-most stables. The heavy cavalry are sent to the eastern stables on the right hand side.

Dozens of soldiers are on hand to watch your arrival. Some from the battlements overhead, while others are on the ground. There are men on hand in the stables to tend to and store your mounts for the night.

[GM Mad]

A door a few dozen feet away from the stables leads into the barracks that you will be using here. The door enters into a central area where there are numerous tables suggesting that this is the building's mess hall. The arrangement is not unlike the barracks back in Crossroads. Several doors lead to the private barracks from this central area. The main difference is that there is a second floor of barracks. The mess hall is two stories high and there is a walkway with a railing on the second floor. Sergeant Traken will lead you up the stairs and to the second door on the right side of the balcony.

“We'll be bunking here,” Traken states. “Each unit has its own barracks. Store your gear and relax. Dinner will be served shortly.”

Those going into the barracks will find that it is very familiar. Bunks are arranged on one side of the room, while there is a table with seating benches and chairs on the other side. There are also weapon racks present and the same type of weapons are stored here as back in Crossroads.

As you're getting settled in to your new living quarters, a uniformed man walks in and speaks to Sergeant Traken privately. The uniformed man does most of the speaking and when he does speak, Sergeant Traken can be clearly heard saying, “Yes sir!” The man departs and the sergeant addresses Wyvern Squad.

“Alright, listen up!” Traken calls out. “Wyvern Squad has been given an assignment! After breakfast tomorrow morning, we'll be riding east and up the Graystone Pass. There is an observation post about a day's ride away that we call Eagle's Nest. From the Nest an approaching enemy force can be spotted while it is still days away from the fort. If there is danger approaching, a black flag is flown to alert the fort. If the pass is clear, a white flag is raised.”

“Chimera Squad was dispatched to Eagle's Nest several days ago and there has been no flag flown from them. We'll be riding to investigate. Get a good night's sleep and have your gear ready to move in the morning. We'll be riding at a more brisk pace than today to reach Eagle's Nest before night falls. Until then, enjoy your evening.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I've added a map for the relevant areas in the game in the Background History file pinned higher up in this forum. It shows the locations of Crossroads, Fort Graystone, and Gateway.

The weapons and armor in the barracks work like the items back in Crossroads for anyone who didn't get to take anything or forgot something.

For those who have not done so yet, add your spells in memory/prayed for up in the Spell List thread. All the character sheets for this game are now online, including the list of clerical spells available to priests.

Once more you have tonight to get ready and to mingle with the other adventurers if you wish to. Things start to get real tomorrow!

I've re-capped the first game day over in the Campaign History section of the forum.

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Riding deeper into the military district with rest of Wyvern Squad, Erisci keeps a modest pace and stays near the middle of the pack. Once they reach an open plaza she sees that the force is indeed rather large, hundreds of soldiers gathered for the upcoming march. "The leaders of this kingdom seem serious about the attack against Keln," the priestess thinks to herself. "All the better." She cannot avoid a wry smile on her face as she thinks about the potential that could result from this mission.

The group needs to wait a significant amount of time for most of the army to begin to move out before their squad falls in line. Erisciana notices they are near the rear of the column. "I hope there is little chance of ambush on our journey," she says to no one in particular. "We will be in the most vulnerable position, it appears," she complains.

Being a proficient rider, the pace is rather slow for her. It is reasonable considering the make-up of the army. And she rode on campaign once before so this was not a new experience. She would try to pass the time by chatting with those near here. She does keep a recurring worried check on the flanks, especially to the left mountainside.

The lunch break is a nice reprieve for getting her rear out of the saddle and fortunately the day is sunny and without rain. She had enough of that in the woods of Elcadan recently. When the fort which is their destination can be seen initially, it is a relief. Her horse has been a well-behaved ride and was neither too spirited nor too sluggish. Still a chance to relax would be welcome.

The fort is not particularly impressive compared to the magnificent structures that were built in Zakhara. Fortunately they would not be staying there long. Erisci looked around a bit as they moved through the fort to their own barracks. "It's definitely better than the week I spent in the woods in Elcadan," she says, lamenting the memory. Erisciana will choose a bunk near a wall and begin to store her gear. She will remove the leather armor from her backpack and put it into the footlocker, expecting to have to wear it when they leave here. Hanging her cloak over the bedpost, she will recline briefly on the bunk, resting from the day trip until dinner is served.

After the dinner meal, Wyvern Squad is given their first assignment. Erisciana will hearken to the explanation that Traken gives. "So this previous group has not been heard from and either has not reached the observation post or were unable to reach it. Discounting the remote possibility that they simply deserted and melted into the countryside, they were either drawn away from their directive by something more enticing, they have been inexplicably delayed, or they were slaughtered on the way to the post or at the post itself," she says expressionlessly. "It appears that we may have a challenging first mission," she adds to the rest of her group.

[Flare Nightstorm]

A new member of Wyvern Squad enters, and soon takes to drooling over the scantily-clad priestess. He drags his eyes away from her abundant flesh long enough to gesture in Butternut's direction. It's not one she typically uses, but she's seen Galan and his partners use it, and has a pretty good idea what it means. Returning the gesture, she ups the ante with a question. "Butternut of the Foxburr Clan. And you are?"

Flare Nightstorm is talking in his sleep.

"... crispy porklets..

... the fires were too strong..

... he took me cider!.."

Flare Nightstorm awakens to the kick of Sgt Traken's boot. "Time to move," says Sarge. It wasn't an angry kick, more of a rousing kick. Flare shakes the cobwebs from his eyes, and wipes the stale moisture from his mouth. Memories of the evening slowly return to him. He remembers his companions milling about. Arming themselves. Leaving. Returning. Talking. Sleeping.

He, himself, had fallen asleep, right here, against his chosen wall - no bed, nor bath, taken. His companions looked fed, refreshed, and more friendly now than strangers. And he'd missed it.

He remembers Butternut introducing herself. But he was already asleep at that point. His eyes wide open. It was a skill he taught himself as a scout for Alexandria during his formative years. He'd never fall asleep by himself. Only when there were others on duty. He wanted to be ready. His friends accused him of looking more alive when he slept than he ever did while awake.

He imagined that he was the butt of a few jokes in the barracks last night as he slipped slowly down the wall, an inch every few minutes, as the hours passed, and until he was seated perfectly in an upright position. Eyes perfectly open, with the occasional snort from his nose, or an unconscious clearing cough from his lungs. He was certain that that Ren character had something to say about it.

And surely, Butternut might've been offended that he wasn't cordial. She had reason to be upset with him. He'd make sure to apologize at some point this morning.

[Flare Nightstorm]

Next morning after breakfast, Wyvern Squad is taken to a stables near their barracks. Two other adventuring squads are there as well. They are also picking out mounts. You'll find out that they are Minotaur Squad and Ogre Squad.

Looking over the stable, Flare sees some majestic creatures, such beautiful, beautiful animals. So much potential here. His eyes well-up. A touch of sadness fills his memories.

As he slowly continues surveying the horses in the stable, he spots a beautiful courser. Long, black flowing mane, dark chestnut color. The horse is very social and is surrounded by its stable mates. These horses appear excited for adventure. This is the kind of energy that Flare seeks. Perhaps even needs.

As Flare makes his way to the beautiful courser, a black rouncey bumps into him. The stable isn't crowded anymore, and Flare knows his way around horses, so this misstep shouldn't have happened. Is it possible that Flare's blackberry nightcaps had something to do with this? Absolutely! Flare issues an empathic message to the black horse, Apologies, friend. and continues towards the beautiful, social courser.

As he reaches out to the beautiful chestnut courser with the flowing black mane, Flare is knocked to the ground. Perhaps it was Butternut, expressing her displeasure at Flare's prior bad manners. He checks his pockets to be sure none of his personal effects and/or companions have been broken and/or killed and bounces up to face the aggressor.

It's the damned black horse again. The one that bumped him moments ago. Flare cannot believe it. "Listen! I told you I was sorry!" he shouts, audibly. The rouncey just nickers at Flare, tickled with itself for finally getting Flare's attention. Flare had paid no mind to the rouncey when he first spotted it by itself in the stable - as its attitude seemed distant, its stature much smaller than Flare preferred, and the horse was mostly unkempt. It's black mane and coat were matted. If they don't like you, you won't get brushed. This horse did not appear to be a good & gentle companion, not at all. This horse has a long way to go to compare to the likes of Maxim, Flare's previous horse (It was the great memories of Maxim that had brought tears to Flare's eyes upon arriving at the stable.)

But the insistent black rouncey nudged its head under Flare's arm, jostled him, blowing on him - making quite a scene for a disgruntled man of the woods. Flare doesn't reach out to this horse. Instead, he allows her to explore him with her muzzle, lips, head and the occasional tail whip. Flare enjoys the attention, and senses something in her, just as she senses something in him.

"We're both a little broken, aren't we?" The horse responds with a series of huffs and nickers. "You've got some big shoes to fill, I'll say that. But it looks like you need me, eh?" Flare laughs at himself. "Aye, time will tell. Maybe this relationship benefits both of us."

And with that, the rambunctious, mostly un-gentle, somewhat rude, but surprisingly affectionate, and communicative, deep-black rouncey had chosen its human for Operation Graystone.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Entering the barracks in the main hall, Butternut notices the other ranger leaving with the rest of the group. It occurs to her that he never responded to her; in fact, she doesn't recall him speaking at all. 'Perhaps he's mute', she thinks to herself as she scoops up and rapidly repacks her gear.

As he reaches out to the beautiful chestnut courser with the flowing black mane, Flare is knocked to the ground. Perhaps it was Butternut, expressing her displeasure at Flare's prior bad manners. He checks his pockets to be sure none of his personal effects and/or companions have been broken and/or killed and bounces up to face the aggressor.

It's the damned black horse again. The one that bumped him moments ago. Flare cannot believe it. "Listen! I told you I was sorry!" he shouts, audibly. The rouncey just nickers at Flare, tickled with itself for finally getting Flare's attention.

As she enters the stable, Butternut's attention is caught by the commotion between the ranger and the black horse. Their antics are genuinely amusing, and the ranger's shouting disavows her previous notion. 'I guess he can speak', she muses before turning away to find her own mount.

It is not long before they are on the road. The ride is a pleasant one once beyond the walls of the city. Once well out on the road, Butternut guides her pony over alongside the black rouncey. "So you can speak,eh?" she asks, looking up at the strange human ranger.

[Flare Nightstorm]

FLARE NIGHTSTORM -

It is not long before they are on the road. The ride is a pleasant one once beyond the walls of the city. Once well out on the road, Butternut guides her pony over alongside the black rouncey. "So you can speak,eh?" she asks, looking up at the strange human ranger.

Flare clears his throat. "My behavior last night..." His voice trails off. "You deserve respect for being cordial. It mustn't be easy with all you've been through." They ride quietly for a moment.

"We have much in common! Hatred of Goblins. Love of the woods." His pocket rustles oddly and his pitch-black rouncey chuffs loudly. "And, yes, of course ANIMALS! We LOVE the animals! Mustn't forget the ANIMALS! How could we ever forget the ANIMALS?" He squeezes his pocket tenderly.

"But I hope you find it in your heart to accept my apology, knowing that I spend my days with birds and foxes. And not so much with people, who I can take, as much as leave, with their half-witted ways and their....." His voice trails off again...

And he begins to SNORE loudly!

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm -

Still snoring, Flare opens an eyelid and peeks at Butternut. Her expression is one of utter disbelief. He snores once more for emphasis, but can contain himself no longer and begins to laugh boisterously. He cannot catch his breath. "WHOO-HOO! Forgive me, Butternut of Foxburr, I could not help but poke fun at myself just now." He laughs again. "I'm sure that Ren had a few things to say about my sleep-deprived state, din't he? But, gods, I was starting to bore myself just now. Such long-winded explanations. I'm not good at all this socializing and speaking. Egad!"

He hopes Butternut understands his attempt at humor, but decides he'd better calm down as they continue their ride towards Fort Graystone.

After a moment he gathers himself and, in all sincerity, offers a proper introduction to her: "I am Flare Nightstorm, of the forests of Alexandria and the South Sea. A modest Ranger of Selune with his share of history and quirks. And it is my honor to meet you, Lady Butternut of the Foxburr Clan."

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

“You're still young, lad,” the blacksmith notes. “Need to put some muscles on those shoulders! The chain mail weights about forty pounds. The padding is there to keep your shoulders from bein' cut up.”

‘Í’ll do so’ the young paladin thinks to himself. To wear such armor is a goal to set for himself, as well as grow stronger. Surely this mission will grant him such growth, if he survives.

“I will bear that in mind,” he says back. “Thank you,” Lucyus says as he moves to the exit and to the outside.

Lucyus hears Flare talking in his sleep as he gets ready for the morning ride. “The cider couldn’t have been that good,” he says looking to the woodsmen.

Lucyus walks with the others towards the stables. He feels the weight of the armor and gear he is carrying, but does not complain. ‘You will grow stronger he says to himself', as he steels himself and moves ever forward. As he reaches the paddock of horses, he sees several groups there picking out horses. Seeing a Chestnut Mare with a black mane, Lucyus approaches it and introduces himself to the horse. After some time, Lucyus puts riding gear upon it. Talking softly, “I’ll take care of you if you take care of me,” he says patting the horses flank.

To whomever is present, "Last time I rode a horse was when I was fleeing the city with my Uncle Hermes. Gods, I miss Peppercorn. She was a lovely black and white-speckled Mare with such a calm temperment. It was a shame I couldn't keep her."

“Why were you fleeing? Perhaps, you will see her again.” Lucyus says to Ren.

He hears Flare mention to his horse that they are both broken; Lucyus says to him. “What is broken can be reforged,” he says evenly looking at the woodsmen. “Perhaps, you only need to find the reason to become renewed. Forgive me, I don’t think I met you yet. Lucyus," he puts his hand out in greeting.

It takes him two tries to mount the horse and once he does he teeters to one side for a moment, then centers himself. As they move through the military area, Lucyus sees his mentor. And raises a hand in greeting, though he is doubtful he will be seen.

Taking position last in the company's column, Lucyus readies himself for the coming march. His shield lays on his horse’s pommel and his axe is ever close at hand. The road is long and after several hours, the column is called for a halt. Cracking his neck and raising his helmet’s visor, he dismounts and stretches his legs.

“We'll be bunking here,” Traken states. “Each unit has its own barracks. Store your gear and relax. Dinner will be served shortly.”

Lucyus, nods and stows his gear. He removes his armor and puts a simple tunic on. As he does so their Sgt. calls for them to listen up. Crossing his arms before him, Lucyus listens to their assignment, then Erisciana asks for more information.

After the dinner meal, Wyvern Squad is given their first assignment. Erisciana will hearken to the explanation that Traken gives. "So this previous group has not been heard from and either has not reached the observation post or were unable to reach it. Discounting the remote possibility that they simply deserted and melted into the countryside, they were either drawn away from their directive by something more enticing, they have been inexplicably delayed, or they were slaughtered on the way to the post or at the post itself," she says expressionlessly. "It appears that we may have a challenging first mission," she adds to the rest of her group.

Taking a bite of an apple, he shakes his head slightly, a ghost of a smile upon his features. ‘She is to the point, calculating almost to the point of being cold.’ He thinks to himself, ‘This one is to be watched.’

“Are there any reports as to what has been in the area? Surely if this was your plan, scouts were sent out?” he asks in reply to Traken.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar stretches out on his bottom bunk. It feels awkward, not entirely uncomfortable. These beds were clearly not build for dwarves, but rather a one size fits all scenario. Still, sleep finds him easily enough and before long it is time to get up. Nice to wake up and be dry for a change, he muses. Whatever time is available, the dwarf tends to his studded armor, looking it over carefully before donning it. He secures all his weapons and stows the new gear he purchased the previous day, attaching his belt pouches to his broad belt and securing his picks and other small items inside. The bigger items go into his pack. Throughout his routine, he will exchange pleasantries with his new companions, and get himself some food before heading to the stables.

Vernar looks at the available animals, staying away from the mules. Seen them get agitated too often to risk my hide, Vernar thinks. He will look for the stoutest pony available and solicit some help on ensuring everything is secured properly. "Never been on one before," he reveals to anyone who asks, "always jus' used my own feet t' get anywhere. Want t' make sure I don't fall off the back end and all you leave me behind," he says the last with what must be a grin, but looks more like a grimmace. Once he is certain everything is ready, he will struggle to mount up, but finally manages. "Lookie there," he says triumphantly, "I am not facing backwards."

Even with the slow pace, it takes all morning for the dwarf to get acclimated to riding. Just when he is feeling comfortable, it's time for a lunch break. Vernar's feet are a bit unsteady getting off the pony, but he soon regains his composure. The rest of the day is much like the beginning, with extra time needed for him to get mounted and be ready to go. Still, the dwarf doesn't complain, and takes any offered advice to help him along. Finally, once at their destination, Vernar and the group learn the truth of their first assignment.

... “Chimera Squad was dispatched to Eagle's Nest several days ago and there has been no flag flown from them. We'll be riding to investigate. Get a good night's sleep and have your gear ready to move in the morning. We'll be riding at a more brisk pace than today to reach Eagle's Nest before night falls. Until then, enjoy your evening.”

Erisciana is the first to reply, offering up three possible explainations for the previous squad's disappearance. The dwarf nods stoically but doesn't feel the need to add anything further at this time. He will get a meal, but otherwise has little requirements for the rest of the evening.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

As they ride out of the city, Butternut notices that Vernar appears to be inexperienced at riding. She guides her black-and-white spotted pony alongside the dwarf's steed. "Are you doing okay there?" she asks, looking over at the burly dwarf. "Need some help?" If he does, she will give him some instruction on riding, and show him how to stroke the mount's neck and talk softly to the horse in order to settle its nerves.

Flare clears his throat. "My behavior last night..." His voice trails off. "You deserve respect for being cordial. It mustn't be easy with all you've been through." They ride quietly for a moment.

"We have much in common! Hatred of Goblins. Love of the woods." His pocket rustles oddly and his pitch-black rouncey chuffs loudly. "And, yes, of course ANIMALS! We LOVE the animals! Mustn't forget the ANIMALS! How could we ever forget the ANIMALS?" He squeezes his pocket tenderly.

"But I hope you find it in your heart to accept my apology, knowing that I spend my days with birds and foxes. And not so much with people, who I can take, as much as leave, with their half-witted ways and their....." His voice trails off again...

And he begins to SNORE loudly!

The rustling in Flare's pocket and oddly-emphasized pronouncements draws a raised eyebrow from Butternut. Clearly, this strange man has a mouse or other small animal in his pocket. At first, his apology sounds sincere, inclining Butternut to some sympathy, but then he falls asleep. At first, she considers poking him in an attempt at waking him, but then decides not to bother and simply starts to guide her pony a bit to the side, opening a gap between them.

Still snoring, Flare opens an eyelid and peeks at Butternut. Her expression is one of utter disbelief. He snores once more for emphasis, but can contain himself no longer and begins to laugh boisterously. He cannot catch his breath. "WHOO-HOO! Forgive me, Butternut of Foxburr, I could not help but poke fun at myself just now." He laughs again. "I'm sure that Ren had a few things to say about my sleep-deprived state, din't he? But, gods, I was starting to bore myself just now. Such long-winded explanations. I'm not good at all this socializing and speaking. Egad!"

When Flare peeks at her, he finds that Butternut is now riding along half a dozen feet away and starting to fall a bit behind as she seems more inclined to converse with others of their companions. His exaggerated laughter catches her attention for a moment, but is quickly overwhelmed by her disinterest. He prattles on, clearly demonstrating that he had no idea what was going on around him back at the barracks, either.

"I wouldn't know anything about what Ren might or might not have said last night, since I spent the night in an inn." Strange that what he called 'poking fun at himself', came off much more as the opposite of the respect he claimed she deserved. As far as she is concerned, it really doesn't matter what else he has to say.


The ride continues along road toward the hills. Butternut enjoys the warm air, the calls of the birds overhead, and the rustlings of the animals in the brush alongside the road. Her pony proves to be a fine mount, and Butternut employs her ability to talk with animals in order to introduce herself and learn the mare's name: Zephyr is the closest translation to human speech that she can think of.

When they stop for lunch, Butternut takes the time to scout the area, paying particular attention to the sounds and behavior of the animals, to verify that there are no nearby threats. Once that is done, she'll make a meal of whatever travel rations the military has provided.

It is not long before they are on the way again. Butternut can clearly see their destination at this point: an old fort on a hill which straddles the road. By the time the command elements at the very front of the army reach the gates, she can see the soldiers already manning the walls from where her squad rides near the back despite the approach of evening.

Once inside, they are assigned quarters in one corner of the fort. It seems the other adventurer squads will be sharing the building with them. Butternut focuses on getting Zephyr stabled, then carries her gear inside and picks out a bunk in the far corner. As she finishes up, she sees what is apparently an officer enter and speak with Sergeant Traken before departing.

“Alright, listen up!” Traken calls out. “Wyvern Squad has been given an assignment! After breakfast tomorrow morning, we'll be riding east and up the Graystone Pass. There is an observation post about a day's ride away that we call Eagle's Nest. From the Nest an approaching enemy force can be spotted while it is still days away from the fort. If there is danger approaching, a black flag is flown to alert the fort. If the pass is clear, a white flag is raised.”

“Chimera Squad was dispatched to Eagle's Nest several days ago and there has been no flag flown from them. We'll be riding to investigate. Get a good night's sleep and have your gear ready to move in the morning. We'll be riding at a more brisk pace than today to reach Eagle's Nest before night falls. Until then, enjoy your evening.”

The squad has been given their first mission, to be started in the morning. From the sound of it, they may well meet opposition. Apparently Erisciana has the same thought...

After the dinner meal, Wyvern Squad is given their first assignment. Erisciana will hearken to the explanation that Traken gives. "So this previous group has not been heard from and either has not reached the observation post or were unable to reach it. Discounting the remote possibility that they simply deserted and melted into the countryside, they were either drawn away from their directive by something more enticing, they have been inexplicably delayed, or they were slaughtered on the way to the post or at the post itself," she says expressionlessly. "It appears that we may have a challenging first mission," she adds to the rest of her group.

Butternut agrees with the foreign woman's assessment, though she has her own suspicions as to which possibilities are most likely.

“Are there any reports as to what has been in the area? Surely if this was your plan, scouts were sent out?” he asks in reply to Traken.

It sounds to Butternut as though Chimera Squad were the scouts, though it is possible that others have patrolled the area without going so far. She will wait to hear how the sergeant responds to the question.

Later, if allowed outside, Butternut will scout the area immediately around the fort a bit to get the lay of the land and to be certain that there are no obvious weaknesses in the fort's defenses. Either way, she will get a good night's sleep and be ready to leave first thing in the morning.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 11th, CR 569

Not long after arriving at their barracks at Fort Graystone, Wyvern Squad has been given their first mission. Chimera Squad was dispatched a few days ago to man the Eagle's Nest observation post. A flag system is used to determine if the pass is safe or if enemy forces are coming. Thus far no flag has been flown.

“Are there any reports as to what has been in the area? Surely if this was your plan, scouts were sent out?” he asks in reply to Traken.

“The pass is regularly scouted and there have been observation teams to Eagle's Nest before,“ Traken explains. “With the build up of our forces, it's not unexpected that the enemy might attempt to attack us first before we are ready. Perhaps even daring to attack Fort Graystone itself. This was the first time a large group was dispatched to man the Eagle's Nest.”

Later, if allowed outside, Butternut will scout the area immediately around the fort a bit to get the lay of the land and to be certain that there are no obvious weaknesses in the fort's defenses. Either way, she will get a good night's sleep and be ready to leave first thing in the morning.

Butternut, and anyone else who wishes to look around, can mostly move about the fort freely. Those who do quickly learn that some areas are off limits and those that are have guards barring the way. Butternut finds that the inner courtyard is similar to the outer courtyard in size. The main difference is that there are six catapults sitting in a line across the middle of the courtyard. There is a large supply of rocks on hand to be loaded into the catapults.

Much like the entrance, there are two gates that lead out into Graystone Pass. Both have portcullis on both sides of the passage through the outer wall. The wall itself seems to be about thirty feet thick and at least thirty feet high.

Both gatehouses have a draw bridge on the other side and both are currently down. A ten-foot-deep trench has been dug across the front of the fort spanning its entire length and it runs out at least forty feet. The exception to this is where the twin roads from the gatehouses pick up after crossing the drawbridge. For a short distance both roads have trenches on either side before the terrain levels out again. The trench is not filled with water, but instead large spear-like spikes crisscross its bottom. A fall into this pit of spikes looks like it would be fatal.

Guards and elfin archers patrol the top of the outer wall. There are six short towers built there to be used as archery posts. In between each pair of towers on the wall top is a heavy ballista, three in all. Looking back, Butternut can see that the middle wall of the fort that divides the two courtyards is higher than the outer wall. Archers on the top of that wall would be able to fire at enemy forces over the defenders on the outer wall.

[GM Mad]

April 12th, CR 569

Morning comes too soon for some and not soon enough for others. Breakfast is had and you gather up your gear for the mission to come. The mounts that you rode the day before have already been made ready for you today. Each mount has been loaded with food and drink for both of you.

Wyvern Squad mounts up and with Sergeant Traken in the lead you ride out into the outer courtyard. Many are on hand to watch you depart. Most wish you good luck, while a few will say that it was nice to know you!

Passing through the gatehouse in the inner wall, you ride into the outer courtyard. The ballistas and their piles of ammunition are noted. One of the outer gatehouses is already open and Wyvern Squad rides through it, over the drawbridge, and out onto the road beyond. You can't help but notice the spiked trench along the road. Once clear of Fort Graystone, Sergeant Traken urges his mount into a faster, but steady pace.

Graystone Pass itself is a hilly region that bisects the Graystone Mountains at this point. The pass itself ranges from five to ten miles wide along its nearly 80 mile length. At the far end sits your ultimate destination: the City of Gateway. The pass steadily climbs upwards as it travels towards Gateway.

Today is sunny once more and a little bit warmer than the day before. The start of the ride is pleasant enough as you follow the road through the lightly wooded hills. The forest around you is alive with the sounds of animals and birds. Creatures such as squirrels and rabbits are occasionally seen. After several hours of riding, Sergeant Traken brings the procession to a halt and you break for lunch. Everyone gets to stretch their legs and the mounts get some food, water and rest.

“We're about halfway there now,” Sergeant Traken reports. “The rest of the trip is going to be more interesting. See that up there?” Traken points to a place to the north at the top of small nearby mountain. Those with really good eyesight can just make out a flagpole near the top. It looks to be only seven or eight miles away, but is very high up.

“That's the Eagle's Nest,” Traken continues. “There a trail coming up that we'll be switching to. From that point on we'll be riding single file. There's some caves at the bottom of that mountain. The horses will be stored there during our visit. There are passages that lead up inside the mountain and eventually to the top. At the top there is a small tower that can oversee this entire end of the pass. That's our destination.”

The ride continues after the lunch break. Those who are keeping watch of your surroundings do not see anything out of the ordinary. Sure enough a side trail is found not far from your lunch stop. From there the trail leads mostly to the north and higher up into the hills. Once the hills become too steep, the trail starts to zigzag further along and up the side of the hills.

A few hours later, your destination comes into sight. The trail ends at a large cave opening. A crude wooden fence has been constructed across the opening. Scouts are sent ahead to check things out, presumably Butternut, Vernar and Ren. Nothing out of the ordinary seems to be around. The sounds of animals can be heard from just inside the cave. Other than that, the immediate area is clear.

Those who get close enough can see that there are seven mounts already stabled just inside the cave. The wooden fence has a gate in it to allow entry. The fence was clearly built to protect mounts stored inside from wild animals. The four horses, two ponies and one mule seem glad to see the new arrivals. Those who are skilled in such things will note that these animals have not been fed for several days now. They are carrying food for themselves and their riders in saddle bags, just like you are, but no one has fed them. There is a water trough, but it's nearly empty now.

Wyvern Squad moves their mounts through the fence and closes the gate behind them. The mounts that were here are fed and watered and given some much needed attention.

“This is strange,” Sergeant Traken notes. “Chimera Squad reached this far at least, but no one came down to tend to the mounts.”

Traken lights a torch and those without infravision can see this small cavern better. Most of the cave is filled by the stable area, but a passage does lead away. The floor of this passage starts to ramp up and lead deeper and higher into the mountain.

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

You were given a week's worth of food and water for yourself, and a week's worth of feed and water for your mount. The mounts are carrying this with them. As noted in the post, the food and feed for Chimera Squad was mostly left on their mounts. Going to take any extra food and water with you or leave it on your mounts for now?

The passageway going up is dark, as it is inside the mountain. Not a problem for those with infravision, but for those without it, a light source will be needed. I need to know if you are going to be carrying a torch or have your weapons at the ready, and if so which weapons.

For those who are unaware, the version of Infravision that I use is that it allows you to see as if under normal light for your range. So it does not pick up heat signatures or anything like that. Just normal sight in the dark for a limited range. Beyond that range you are as much in the dark as anyone else.

The passage, at least what can be seen of it, is wide enough to go allow two to go side by side if you choose. The scouts will go first: Butternut, Ren, and Vernar in whatever order you want. Sergeant Traken will be a short distance behind them. Next will be everyone else with Lucyus bringing up the rear.

The recap for April 11th has been added to the Campaign History section of the forum.

Now what?

[Ren Silvare]

Having chosen a black mare of short and slightly stocky stature, with a white patch on her muzzle and a white mane and tail, he begins to brush and clean her all the while whispering. "Hello sweet Artemis. Aren't you a lovely mare. If you truly are sweet we can get you a sugar lump." Grinning, he watches the mare give a sort of abashed huff.

Lucyus:
“Why were you fleeing? Perhaps, you will see her again.”

"Realistically, I highly doubt it. But your sentiment is appreciated; in truth, I had to sell her to stay on my feet once Hermes decided he was done with my services." He almost spits the last word out as if it were a venom. "We were fleeing because of a mistake. A very big mistake. Though I am also to blame, he shares his part in this. He has also shown what he truly valued when he deserted me for other ventures. I carry these Katar because of him, and I wouldn't get rid of them till I give them back to him; preferably between the ribs. But I dare not dwell on such things. While I may hide in plain sight, he just simply flees to who knows where."

During the ride Ren decides to feel Artemis out and strays to and from the group slightly, lightly guiding Artemis to and fro and gauging her responses. While not a pro at riding he has a certain affinity which he does not begrudge. On one of his passes near the group he overhears Flare.

Flare:
"WHOO-HOO! Forgive me, Butternut of Foxburr, I could not help but poke fun at myself just now." He laughs again. "I'm sure that Ren had a few things to say about my sleep-deprived state, din't he? But, gods, I was starting to bore myself just now. Such long-winded explanations. I'm not good at all this socializing and speaking. Egad!"

He hopes Butternut understands his attempt at humor, but decides he'd better calm down as they continue their ride towards Fort Graystone.

After a moment he gathers himself and, in all sincerity, offers a proper introduction to her: "I am Flare Nightstorm, of the forests of Alexandria and the South Sea. A modest Ranger of Selune with his share of history and quirks. And it is my honor to meet you, Lady Butternut of the Foxburr Clan."

"haahahaha Flare you say? I did not know your name before now let alone paid your habits any mind. Afraid I was too caught up in my own mind to notice though if you wish to know my thoughts you may ask, though I may not provide. A lot is happening these days, though it seems your 'long-wind' was ill received." he chuckles. "Well met, though let us hope that your narcolepsy chooses its moments." And he returns to working with the horse.

The sheer mass of troops in the retinue is truly awe-inspiring and the nervousness of the morning is quickly replaced by a sense of gleeful adrenaline. I'm actually doing something. Whether we succeed or fail here, I can say I've tried to be the gnome I was always deluding myself to believe.

As the sun begins to set, they arrive at Fort Graystone and are led to the stables and barracks. Sneaking a little treat to Artemis he returns to the barracks feeling a little spent from the almost quivering anxiousness of the day's ride.

Traken:
“Alright, listen up!” Traken calls out. “Wyvern Squad has been given an assignment! After breakfast tomorrow morning, we'll be riding east and up the Graystone Pass. There is an observation post about a day's ride away that we call Eagle's Nest. From the Nest an approaching enemy force can be spotted while it is still days away from the fort. If there is danger approaching, a black flag is flown to alert the fort. If the pass is clear, a white flag is raised.”
“Chimera Squad was dispatched to Eagle's Nest several days ago and there has been no flag flown from them. We'll be riding to investigate. Get a good night's sleep and have your gear ready to move in the morning. We'll be riding at a more brisk pace than today to reach Eagle's Nest before night falls. Until then, enjoy your evening.”

This is it. The first test.

Erisciana:
"So this previous group has not been heard from and either has not reached the observation post or were unable to reach it. Discounting the remote possibility that they simply deserted and melted into the countryside, they were either drawn away from their directive by something more enticing, they have been inexplicably delayed, or they were slaughtered on the way to the post or at the post itself," she says expressionlessly. "It appears that we may have a challenging first mission," she adds to the rest of her group.

Lucyus:
“Are there any reports as to what has been in the area? Surely if this was your plan, scouts were sent out?”

"Very astute deduction. Though one never knows until they do. And Sir Lucyus I believe we are the scouts."

[Ren Silvare]

while a few will say it was nice to know you!

Ren replies in jest, "At least people will know me. Hahahah farewell for now.... what was your name again?" he ends rhetorically. He has taken a couple extra days of food in his pack leaving some behind with his leather armor for storage believing that which was provided will suffice but in case the horses spook, bringing emergency rations. Morning certainly felt an eternity away as the thoughts began swirling through Ren's head, fears, heroic fights, lovely trinkets, and the mystery of the unknown.

It is a few hours ride to the Eagle's Nest and Ren seems is stupidly disappointed when the horses are found tethered at the base of the tower. Making sure to move as quietly as possibly amidst the shadows cast from the mountain's face He feels exhilarated alongside Vernar and Butternut.

"I feel sorry for whoever we find, be they foe. Oddly part of me wishes for something to happen. Being torn between boredom and excitement is killing me," he mentions to the scouting crew. "Looks like we will be the go-tos for such tasks. Try not to pass me in the dark, I believe I should probably be point so I can relay back to you," he grins.

After making a slight fool of himself sneaking along the gate and rolling out into the open with a muffled "A-HA!" to which the horses are unimpressed, he regains himself and begins to inspect the entry way. "Hey Butternut, is it possible for you to discern any activity from tracks? I'm really not sure what you are able to detect but maybe there is some clue as to what awaits us."

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

"I believe this is may be my area of expertise." He readies himself at the front of the scouting party, "I intend to serve as the quiet shadow which spots the first sign of anything and reports back to Butternut and Vernar a few yards away. I'll check corners with this mirror, making sure it is angled so any light source wouldn't reflect, and if there are any light sources I won't venture into any light without Vernar and Butternut close by. Is this an acceptable formation?"

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

“The pass is regularly scouted and there have been observation teams to Eagle's Nest before, “Traken explains. “With the build up of our forces, it's not unexpected that the enemy might attempt to attack us first before we are ready. Perhaps even daring to attack Fort Graystone itself. This was the first time a large group was dispatched to man the Eagle's Nest.”

Lucyus follows Traken’s explanation. He adds, “Let us hope they do not know the flag system. If they did take the Eagle’s nest it would cause havoc with our army and supply lines,” he says evenly. Some of the others speak of us being the scouts, which he fully understands given his training.

Wyvern Squad mounts up and with Sergeant Traken in the lead you ride out into the in courtyard. Many are on hand to watch you depart. Most wish you good luck, while a few will say it was nice to know you!

Lucyus raises an armed hand in departing. “Remember this day!” he calls to the battlements. “It is today we start our road to reclaiming Gateway!” He hears the negative comments but speaks nothing of them.

"Very astute deduction. Though one never knows until they do. And Sir Lucyus I believe we are the scouts."

Looking to the gnome, Lucyus smirks then says, “Then let our mission be the first thorn in our enemies' side. And please do not call me Sir.” He says thoughtfully, “I am no knight. Though I aspire to be one.” Thoughts of a code comes to his mind. ‘Treat others with respect, regardless of station; Never harm a child; Do not lie, cheat or steal. These things are for lesser men. Protect the weak against the evil strong. And lastly, never to allow oneself thought of gain to lead you into the pursuit of evil.’

Lost in thought for a moment, Lucyus looks to Ren, “We will see to the Eagle’s Nest and far beyond.” He says determinedly.

“That's the Eagle's Nest,” Traken continues. “There a trail coming up that we'll be switching to. From that point on we'll be riding single file. There's some caves at the bottom of that mountain. The horses will be stored there during our visit. There are passages that lead up inside the mountain and eventually to the top. At the top there is a small tower that can see this entire end of the pass. That's our destination.”

“Is there any other way to the top?” he asks as he surveys the scene before him as he takes a bit of beef jerky and washes down with some water.
As the scouts move forward, Lucyus says to himself more than the others around him. “They may still be here,” he says hopefully, though sadly he thinks they may not be breathing. “I doubt they would leave their mounts.”

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

Lucyus will see if there is another torch and light it. He will take out his axe and hold it in his right hand. Reaching up he drops his visor into place. A muffled, “As you wish,” he says as he rolls his axe in his hand getting a better feel for the weapon.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

After dinner, the Squad named Wyvern gets their first mission. Another adventuring band has gone missing, not completing their own mission and the Wyverns will be required to find out what happened. The priestess will set up the requisite partitions and change into her bed clothes for the night. Her thoughts drift on to her situation for a short while. The immediate mission is just a means to an end. And that end is far away. As such, she quickly drifts off to sleep.

The next morning she will rise early and complete her normal morning rituals, including prayers to the goddess, changing into her working clothes and applying a little makeup. No reason not to be presentable. She will arrange her leather armor on the bed before breakfast so as to get into her gear as quickly as possible after eating.

Erisciana will chat with her squad members about whatever small talk seems to be the order of the morning. Afterwards, she will put on her armor, when she is finished you see that she is wearing a somewhat ornate suit of studded leather armor that clearly has been made for her, as it fits perfectly. It consists mostly of hardened leather pieces which have been form-fitted to her body. The studs were smaller than might be seen on other armor and were done in contrasting colors of silver and brass to create a fine intricate pattern which carried over all parts of the armor. Looking closely one could see that the design was that of intertwined leaved vines and flowers. In addition, parts of the armor were dyed or tinted along the edgings to have a darker blue hue along the upper edges and a pinker hue along bottom edges.

The armor was worn over the clothing she had been seen in earlier and the color could be seen through the gaps in the armor, which covered her upper and lower arms at strategic points. A heavy belt was worn about her waist and short black gloves were tucked in at one side. On the other a heavy wicked-looking flanged mace was secured to her side. This was the first indication that this girl might have any martial skill at all.

A sort of leather plaited skirt, with decorative and protective studs hung from her waist. It was also in the dyed colors, but were alternating panels of the colors to create a pleasing pattern. More fitted leather plates were secured to her thighs with blackened leather straps and her shin pieces extended from high enough to protect her knees down to her ankles and connected to a sort of sandal that also had a protective plate over part of the top of her feet. The soles were thick and ribbed for good footing over uneven ground.

Some of her jewels could still be seen where they peeked out from the edges of armor or between leather plates. Her hair was unconstrained now, without the hair-combs, and gave her an unexpected wild look with her ornate armor. In one hand was some sort of combination helm/facemask. The helm when worn would protect the bridge of her nose and forehead, as well as the sides of her face with metal reinforced plates. The whole thing then strapped behind her head, with metallic disks hanging from the edges of the straps along the side of her head. This managed to also keep her hair out of her face when fighting, but it was of its ‘own mind’ on the top and back. (Imagine a sort of banshee mask which covered most of her face and left her hair free elsewhere.)

She will pack the remainder of her gear into her backpack and gather it, along with her cloak and shield and head for the stables when Traken indicates that they are moving out. The mounts have been made ready for them so she straps her backpack behind her saddle again, between the saddlebags. The shield is hung over one side behind her and she slips her mask over the pommel of the saddle. Mounting up, she is ready for whatever may come.

The ride is much quicker paced than the day before, and just as long. It is also much more difficult, especially once they hit the switchbacks, climbing towards their destination, the Eagle's Nest. Finally they reach the cave where they will enter the mountain. Surprisingly they find the mounts of what is likely the previous adventuring band.

“This is strange,” Sergeant Traken notes. “Chimera Squad reached this far at least, but no one came down to tend to the mounts.”

"If they did not set a flag of either color, perhaps they did not reach the top? Since the gate here was secured, it is extremely unlikely that they were attacked at this location from outside the cave. Perhaps they did not go up to the lookout perch? They could have closed the gate and gone out into the rough hillside without their mounts. If they did go up the passage, then they either did not reach the top or they did not place the signal flag when they were there, for whatever reason." Erisci thinks that trying to guess the situation is unlikely as there are too many variables still.

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

Erisciana is pleased that Traken has the foresight to place a strong warrior to the rear. This is the most likely area for an ambush, either that or just after the scouts. Erisci will be near the center of the group. She leaves her food her with the mount and will leave the shield behind as well in the confining area. She will have her mace in hand, but ready to also cast spells if needed. The priestess will be certain to stay within sight of the person before her and also keep track of the one behind as well so that there is less chances for unexpected surprises. She steps carefully, but confidently into the unknown...

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Thanks to some helpful advice from Butternut, Vernar gets the hang of riding enough so that he isn't a risk to the rest of the group. By the time they reach the cave where they can safely store their mounts, the dwarf feels pretty good about how things have gone so far. It seems like the previous group's mounts are accounted for, although they are hungry. Vernar quietly contemplates what fate could have befallen them, and how that does not bode well for the chances of a quick completion of this task.

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

Vernar gathers up all of his extra food and water, securing it in his pack. While he is not immediately too concerned about food running low, water is a must, especially if they encounter trouble or are severely delayed. During the packing, he starts looking around, at the cave walls, the ceiling, and steels himself against thoughts of everything closing in on him. This won't happen here, he tries to convince himself. Then the conversation shifts to what order the scouts should take, thankfully distracting him.

"I believe this is may be my area of expertise." He readies himself at the front of the scouting party, "I intend to serve as the quiet shadow which spots the first sign of anything and reports back to Butternut and Vernar a few yards away. I'll check corners with this mirror, making sure it is angled so any light source wouldn't reflect, and if there are any light sources I won't venture into any light without Vernar and Butternut close by. Is this an acceptable formation?"

Vernar nods his agreement, "Sounds t'be a fine enough plan. I will act as a buffer between the main group an' our scouting group." Vernar is a bit heavier armored and can easily rush up to assist the scouts if fighting breaks out, or slip back to the main group should they encounter trouble in their midst.

Vernar will ready his hand axe, but leave his other hand free for now. The dwarf may need an empty hand to grab someone, or something, or to simply reach for his sword if things turn violent. "I will stay out o' whatever light the main group may need, but just," the dwarf continues. He does not want to ruin his infravision, but he also wants to make sure he is close enough that the rest of his companions know the scouts are still ahead of them.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

For the ride out from the city, Butternut is wearing the one of her two new outfits; this one featuring a dark green tunic and rich brown breeches. Since there is no reason to wear the heavy boots while she's riding, she has on a simple pair of brown shoes. As they leave the city, she overhears Ren telling a tale to Lucyus about a horse he once rode.

"Realistically, I highly doubt it. But your sentiment is appreciated; in truth, I had to sell her to stay on my feet once Hermes decided he was done with my services." He almost spits the last word out as if it were a venom. "We were fleeing because of a mistake. A very big mistake. Though I am also to blame, he shares his part in this. He has also shown what he truly valued when he deserted me for other ventures. I carry these Katar because of him, and I wouldn't get rid of them till I give them back to him; preferably between the ribs. But I dare not dwell on such things. While I may hide in plain sight, he just simply flees to who knows where."

"I hope you get your chance to pay him back, Ren," Butternut offers. The gnome's story has given her a bit better understanding of this strange fellow.

Sometime later after her disappointing interaction with the human called Flare, she notes Ren making conversation with the man. Perhaps they have more in common than is immediately apparent to her.
___

Lucyus follows Traken’s explanation. He adds, “Let us hope they do not know the flag system. If they did take the Eagle’s nest it would cause havoc with our army and supply lines,” he says evenly. Some of the others speak of us being the scouts, which he fully understands given his training.

"If they know it, they seem not to have used it yet," Butternut remarks. "But you make a good point. They may be just waiting for major movement on the road."

After the strategy session, Butternut does a bit of exploring. She finds that she is not allowed to actually exit the fort, though she can get to most places within. Instead, she climbs to the outer battlements and surveys the terrain, particularly looking for any sign of hidden tunnel entrances that might allow an enemy to sneak in during the night. Honestly, there's not much chance of spotting anything like that from here, but she feels that she needs to try. Following that, she visits as many of the buildings that touch the outer wall as she can to look for any disguised entries that might indicate a tunnel.
___

Butternut is up early the next day. Once again, she wears the green and brown outfit; the other is her traditional burgundy and gray, which she prefers for when she's underground or in more civilized areas.

As they leave the fort, there are calls both from the fort and back from the group, but Butternut ignores them both. She is keenly aware that they are venturing into enemy territory, so she focuses on opening her senses as Galen taught her. The will not be caught unawares by any ambush if she has any choice in the matter!

Fortunately, the ride goes smoothly and they eventually stop for lunch as the sun reaches its zenith in the sky. Butternut takes the opportunity to savor her meal, as there may be fewer such opportunities in the near future.

“We're about halfway there now,” Sergeant Traken reports. “The rest of the trip is going to be more interesting. See that up there?” Traken points to a place to the north at the top of small nearby mountain. Those with really good eyesight can just make out a flagpole near the top. It looks to be only seven or eight miles away, but is very high up.

“That's the Eagle's Nest,” Traken continues. “There a trail coming up that we'll be switching to. From that point on we'll be riding single file. There's some caves at the bottom of that mountain. The horses will be stored there during our visit. There are passages that lead up inside the mountain and eventually to the top. At the top there is a small tower that can oversee this entire end of the pass. That's our destination.”

Butternut pays close attention to the sergeant's briefing, visually surveying the way ahead as best she can from here. It is not far off now, and she estimates that it will be only a few more hours. 'Wish I had known that before,' she thinks to herself, wishing now that she had worn her other clothes. To late to do anything about it now. Lucyus asks about other routes, though Butternut suspects that Traken would have mentioned it if they had a choice.
___

They reach the end of the trail late in the afternoon. With the clear sky, it is easy to see their surroundings. Dismounting from Zephyr's spotted back, Butternut immediately switches into her good boots. She then begins scouting around the area outside the cave for any sign of Chimera Squad or whomever caused them to not return.

"I feel sorry for whoever we find, be they foe. Oddly part of me wishes for something to happen. Being torn between boredom and excitement is killing me," he mentions to the scouting crew. "Looks like we will be the go-tos for such tasks. Try not to pass me in the dark, I believe I should probably be point so I can relay back to you," he grins.

"Whomever they are, Ren, they do not deserve your sympathy," Butternut replies. "A quick death is the best they deserve."

"If they did not set a flag of either color, perhaps they did not reach the top? Since the gate here was secured, it is extremely unlikely that they were attacked at this location from outside the cave. Perhaps they did not go up to the lookout perch? They could have closed the gate and gone out into the rough hillside without their mounts. If they did go up the passage, then they either did not reach the top or they did not place the signal flag when they were there, for whatever reason." Erisci thinks that trying to guess the situation is unlikely as there are too many variables still.

"I agree, Erisciana," Butternut says with a nod. "There are many possibilities, and we do not yet have enough evidence to select between them. We should strive to be prepared for anything."

At the gnome's suggestion, Butternut will approach the area near the gate and survey the tracks carefully. Perhaps they have a story to tell.

"I believe this may be my area of expertise." He readies himself at the front of the scouting party, "I intend to serve as the quiet shadow which spots the first sign of anything and reports back to Butternut and Vernar a few yards away. I'll check corners with this mirror, making sure it is angled so any light source wouldn't reflect, and if there are any light sources I won't venture into any light without Vernar and Butternut close by. Is this an acceptable formation?"

Vernar nods his agreement, "Sounds t'be a fine enough plan. I will act as a buffer between the main group an' our scouting group." Vernar is a bit heavier armored and can easily rush up to assist the scouts if fighting breaks out, or slip back to the main group should they encounter trouble in their midst.

Vernar will ready his hand axe, but leave his other hand free for now. The dwarf may need an empty hand to grab someone, or something, or to simply reach for his sword if things turn violent. "I will stay out o' whatever light the main group may need, but just," the dwarf continues. He does not want to ruin his infravision, but he also wants to make sure he is close enough that the rest of his companions know the scouts are still ahead of them.

The subject of how to order the scouts comes up. "I presume you both have the ability to see in the dark without need of light sources?" Butternut states as much as asks. "Mine is just starting to develop, so I'm a bit handicapped in that way. I can see sufficiently for hand-to-hand combat, but not well enough to reliably spot traps and such.

"I should probably take a position between you two, preferably only a couple paces behind you, Ren. Thus, I can support you as the need arises, with interfering with your vision. I will focus on hearing, as goblins are most likely to give away their presence through noise."

“We're going up the ramp to the tower at the top,” Traken announces. “Gather everything that you're going to need. Scouts lead the way once more. Lucyus, you have the rear. Let's move out, quickly and quietly. Be on guard and don't loose sight of each other. We could be in enemy territory.”

Butternut will swap out her trail rations for 3 days of the provided food that Zephyr's been carrying. She also makes sure to refill her wineskin with water, as well as grabbing an extra from those provided. If she cannot make it back here in three days, she has much bigger problems.

"I am ready. After you, Ren." Butternut draws her short sword and one dagger, and follows the gnome into the darkened opening. All of her senses are focused on sensing any dangers that they may encounter as they move up through the hill. She will also watch for signs of animals along the path, as they may be a source of useful information.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 11th, CR 569

After the strategy session, Butternut does a bit of exploring. She finds that she is not allowed to actually exit the fort, though she can get to most places within. Instead, she climbs to the outer battlements and surveys the terrain, particularly looking for any sign of hidden tunnel entrances that might allow an enemy to sneak in during the night. Honestly, there's not much chance of spotting anything like that from here, but she feels that she needs to try. Following that, she visits as many of the buildings that touch the outer wall as she can to look for any disguised entries that might indicate a tunnel.

From the battlements, Butternut doesn't note any signs of tunneling outside the fort. The outer wall itself is solid stone construction. Other than the two passages for the roads passing through the gatehouses, there is no inside areas to the walls. Butternut doesn't get very far exploring the side buildings that sit at either end of the outer wall. Both buildings are barracks for the foot soldiers and are filled with many soldiers.


April 12th, CR 569

“Is there any other way to the top?” he asks as he surveys the scene before him as he takes a bit of beef jerky and washes down with some water.

“Not unless you can sprout wings,” Sergeant Traken answers. “Otherwise we ride.”


Wyvern Squad reaches the base of the Eagle's Nest outpost later in the afternoon. They find Chimera Squad’s mounts there inside a enclosed stable. It's clear that they have not been fed in several days. There is a watering trough, but most of the water is gone. Flare tends to all the mounts, filling the trough up with water once more and putting out more feed to eat.

Butternut examines the trail leading up to the gate and only notes tracks approaching Eagle's Nest. There are the tracks Wyvern Squad just made, but underneath those, tracks matching the mounts of Chimera squad can be made out by those trained in such things. But Butternut thinks that there is something else. Another set of tracks underneath those of Chimera Squad. Many days old now, perhaps as much as a week. It was a group of individuals on foot! It's hard to tell how many... maybe a dozen or so? But this Butternut is absolutely sure of: based on the size and shape, the tracks were made by goblins!

[GM Mad]

Attention is now turned to the ramp leading up to the Eagle's Nest inside the mountain. Sergeant Traken lights a torch and Lucyus does the same. Some grab extra rations for the journey to come. Weapons are drawn and the group starts to make the trek to the top.

Ren leads the way, holding his mirror in his hand to look around corners. Butternut is a few steps behind him, armed with a short sword and a dagger. Vernar is much further back and keeps Ren at the edge of his sight. The dwarf has his hand axe at the ready.

Sergeant Traken is a little further back and carries a torch in one hand and a long sword in the other. The torch puts out light in a small area, about a fifteen foot radius. Traken tries to keep Vernar in sight, but the dwarf sometimes drifts in and out of visual range. Erisciana and Wimzy follow behind Sergeant Traken and try to keep within the torch light. Erisciana carries her mace, while Wimzy does not carry any weapons.

Flare is next and he avoids being too close to the torchlight, be it in front of him or behind. His longsword is at the ready. Lucyus brings up the rear. Torch in one hand, a one-handed battle axe in the other.

The ramp is pretty straight forward. It rises up gently as you move along and after a time starts to turn to your right, suggesting that it is spiraling upwards inside the mountain. It’s clear to all that this ramp is not a natural occurrence. Someone made it.

“We don't know who built this ramp or the Eagle's Nest outpost,” Sergeant Traken whispers. “It was just found here long ago. We suspect that it was dwarves, as such stonework is their hallmark.”

The ramp continues to spiral upwards through the mountain, maintaining its pitch and width. After a time, you come to longer hallways that run as much as 100 yards before gently curving back around into another hallway leading off in the direction you just came. The turns in the ramp are curves, there are no real corners to look around.

It's about an hour into your journey and everything starts to look the same. There are no signs of animals living in the ramp. The wind can be heard whistling through the ramp at times, but no animal noises or dripping of water that one normally hears underground.

Ren is nearing the end of yet another long hallway when he suddenly stops! He feels the stone underneath his foot shift ever so slightly. He pauses as if waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop. Was it a trap or simply a loose stone?

Behind Ren, the other members of Wyvern Squad draw closer. Before anyone can realize what is happening, the floor of the ramp suddenly shifts tilting upwards where Ren is at and downwards back at Lucyus' position. Lucyus falls nearly ten feet and upon impact starts to slide back down the mountain! The new passageway he landed in is much steeper than the ramp you had been traveling in and he can't help but keep on sliding! He inadvertently drops his torch and one-handed axe in the process.

One by one, each of the members of Wyvern Squad fall due to the floor suddenly shifting underneath them. The passage they land in works like a slide and they barrel down the mountain completely out of control. The further back you were in the procession, the further you fell into the slide. Some weapons and torches are dropped during the fall and following slide. No handholds can be found and everyone helplessly slides deeper down the mountain!

Wyvern Squad tumbles down the dark slide going faster and faster. Only those with infravision can actually see what is happening, but you are moving too fast to really do anything to stop it. The squad is bounced around and many pick up minor scratches and bruises from the sudden descent.

Finally, Lucyus no longer feels the slide underneath him and he's suddenly airborne once more. This lasts for a second as he hits what he assumes to be water! As he tries to gather his wits, the other members of Wyvern Squad coming falling around him creating more large splashes.

It takes a few seconds for the group to process what just happened to them as it occurred so fast. The water seems to be four or five feet deep around, so the shorter members of the group have to tread water to avoid drowning. The dropped weapons and torches fall around the group and sink to the bottom of the pool. Those who are tall enough to stand, can feel objects at the bottom of the water, but cannot tell what they are.

Now is when the smell hits you like a punch in the face. The water isn't fresh water, but a stagnant pool! The smell is horrible and enough to make one sick. Those who accidentally swallowed the putrid water spit it back out in revulsion.

To those without infravision it is pitch black down here. You can't see a thing. Those who have infravision can see that the slide dropped you into a large underground cavern. The stagnant pool isn't all that large, some twenty feet across by thirty feet wide. Three sides of the pool are surrounded by rock, while the remaining side gently rises up out of the smelly water. At the outer range of those with full infravision, you can see what looks like a figure laying on the ground further ahead and out of the pool. This figure is not moving.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

As I noted a few posts back, things just got real!

Lucyus dropped his torch and his one handed axe. Erisciana dropped her mace. Everyone else has the items that they were carrying before the floor dropped out beneath you. Presumably those items dropped slid all the way down with you and are now somewhere in the stagnant pool of water.

As noted there is no outside light down here and any torches that you have with you are now too wet to light.

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

It's a long climb up to Eagle's Nest for the group and the trip starts to become boring and repetitive. But Erisciana does her best to keep her attention on the matter at hand. She recites the litanies quietly to herself for a few minutes to help her focus and calm her somewhat. She smiles at Wimzy at her side, but keeps conversation to a minimum in case there is the threat of ambush.

After about an hour, there seems to be a gathering of the group just ahead. The priestess does not like the idea of everyone so close together in such tight confines. Sure enough, bad things start to happen. Erisciana feels the floor start to drop away below her as the tunnel seems to pivot upward at them. "By Ishtar's star!"

Before she can begin to gain her bearings, there is the feeling of falling. They were dumped into a pit. No. A slide, the motion had not stopped. Erisciana had fallen to her stomach and now she was sliding downward, feet first. Above her was Traken and he was sliding just as fast as she was. She could see others higher up also caught up in the trap. Sandaled feet and gloved hands scrambled for some purchase to stop or even slow her decent, but there were none to be had. Looking down she saw Flare and Lucyus further down, also sliding along. They were going so fast and traveling so far! In but a moment, the light is lost and the priestess is falling in darkness. She hears other exclamations along with an unconscious shriek of her own.

The slide continues for an indeterminable time and then the smooth stone is no longer beneath her and there is only air. Erisciana shrieks again for a moment and then there is water. The priestess quickly surfaces and finds her current surroundings to be as black as the slide was. She cannot see anything. Testing the depth of the pool, she finds that if she stands on tiptoes, she can keep her head out of the water. As the excitement of the moment fades and the motion has ended, the next bit of unpleasantness becomes noticeable. The stench. Clearly the water is stagnant and it reeks of musty rotten eggs. Fortunately she closed her mouth before hitting the water and did not swallow a mouthful of the brackish liquid.

Erisciana heard enough splashes to realize that some, if not all, of her companions had fallen into this water like she had. "Marduk's Horn!" she curses. "We are in a predicament, to be sure. Everyone sound off! This is Erisciana! Is everyone okay?! Those with night site, what do you see?" She will also reach out around her to see if anyone is in arm's reach.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

“Not unless you can sprout wings,” Sergeant Traken answers. “Otherwise we ride.”

The sergeant's comment draws a snort of amusement from the halfling goblin-hunter, but she doesn't comment.

Butternut examines the trail leading up to the gate and only notes tracks approaching Eagle's Nest. There are the tracks Wyvern Squad just made, but underneath those, tracks matching the mounts of Chimera squad can be made out by those trained in such things. But Butternut thinks that there is something else. Another set of tracks underneath those of Chimera Squad. Many days old now, perhaps as much as a week. It was a group of individuals on foot! It's hard to tell how many... maybe a dozen or so? But this Butternut is absolutely sure of: based on the size and shape, the tracks were made by goblins!

It takes a little while to decipher, but the tracks around the entrance to the cave tell an interesting story. As Butternut pieces together the puzzle, she murmurs aloud to Ren, "Horse tracks preceding ours... Must have been Chimera Squad's arrival... But there are even earlier tracks... Goblins, by all indications... Hard to tell how much earlier... Maybe a week..?"

Her examination complete, Butternut stands up straight and approaches Sergeant Traken. "The tracks show Chimera Squad arriving a few days ago. A few days before that, a small pack of goblins entered. No indication of either one leaving."
___

It is not long before they are heading up the ramp into the hill. The path curves around periodically, leading them steadily upward through the mound toward the peak. Butternut does her best to watch the walls, floor and ceiling as they go, but her ability to see in the dark is still so weak that it is hard to make out details.

Ren leads the way, moving quietly as befits his training, and Butternut creeps along a few steps behind. She cannot see Vernar behind, other than an occasional shadow against the torches further behind, and he makes as little noise as she and Ren. The others further back are not so quiet, but are doing their best.

The group spirals up and up, following ramp after nearly-identical ramp, with only the curves breaking up the monotony. Still, the earlier evidence of goblins keeps Butternut's attention sharp. It is hard to know how long they have been climbing, but it seems like a long while, and she begins to wonder just how much farther they have to go.

Butternut's first indication of trouble is a soft click from the floor of the passage at Ren's foot. Before she has time to react, the world seems to turn topsy-turvy, and Butternut finds herself sliding rapidly back in the direction they came from.

"Ah-h-h-h!" she cries out in alarm, before clamping down. Fortunately, she has managed to maintain a tight grip on her weapons. Ren's leg is not far from her face, as he slides along less than an arm's length away. Butternut can hear others sliding as well.

Their descent suddenly becomes steeper just as she tries to stab her dagger into the ground to halt her slide. The weapon finds little purchase in the stone or hard-packed earth and she continues to pick up speed.

There is a sudden rush of terror as she slides off the lip of the ramp into free-fall. She realizes that the sounds she has been hearing for the last few moments are splashes just as she hits the water herself. The impact knocks most of the wind out of her and she gets a mouth- and nose-full of water as she struggles to breathe. Ren impacts almost immediately to her left. It is a miracle that he didn't come down on top of her. Butternut can feel the bottom with her left foot and hand for a second before she bobs to the surface, coughing and spitting.

While not deep, the water is too deep for her to stand. Fortunately, she can tread water even though she never learned to swim with any real skill. In order to free her hands, Butternut sheathes her sword and dagger. It is a bit of a chore while treading water, especially considering that the sheathes are both soaked, but she manages the task.

Erisciana heard enough splashes to realize that some, if not all, of her companions had fallen into this water like she had. "Marduk's Horn!" she curses. "We are in a predicament, to be sure. Everyone sound off! This is Erisciana! Is everyone okay?! Those with night site, what do you see?" She will also reach out around her to see if anyone is in arm's reach.

"Butternut here, and I can see Ren and I think Lucyus, but cannot make out much more than that."

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm: (in transit to Eagle's Nest)

“What is broken can be reforged,” he says evenly looking at the woodsmen. “Perhaps, you only need to find the reason to become renewed. Forgive me, I don’t think I met you yet. Lucyus," he puts his hand out in greeting.

"Good to meet you, Lucyus. I'm Flare Nightstorm of Alexandria & the South Sea. May your kind words bring healing to all of us on this fantastic adventure. Good to have you in the Squad. Despite my rough start, I intend to be a benefit to our team."

When Flare peeks at her, he finds that Butternut is now riding along half a dozen feet away and starting to fall a bit behind as she seems more inclined to converse with others of their companions. His exaggerated laughter catches her attention for a moment, but is quickly overwhelmed by her disinterest. He prattles on, clearly demonstrating that he had no idea what was going on around him back at the barracks, either.

Dammit, Nightstorm. You blew it. A second time with Butternut. How many chances do you expect, you fool?

Instinctively he grabs his flask & sneaks a look around. As the lip of the flask touches his mouth, the black courser bucks suddenly - and for a moment Flare's cider is airborne. His eyes go wide in embarrassment, but he's able to catch the flask before it smashes to the ground. He curses at his horse, but after a few moments, he realizes his mount is right.

Butternut may have to choose between saving your life and saving someone else's, and right now you couldn't blame her for saving someone else's.

He puts the flask away without a drop of alcohol touching his lips. How to make it up to her?

He rides quietly for a few minutes, then Ren pulls up alongside. Oh, Great. Just what I need. He draws a breath and gathers his strength. Okay, let me have it, Ren.

"haahahaha Flare you say? I did not know your name before now let alone paid your habits any mind. Afraid I was too caught up in my own mind to notice though if you wish to know my thoughts you may ask, though I may not provide. A lot is happening these days, though it seems your 'long-wind' was ill received." he chuckles. "Well met, though let us hope that your narcolepsy chooses its moments."

"You're right, friend. My attempt at humor was ill-received." Flare fights the shameful blush swelling his face. "If you can think of a way to make it up to Butternut, it would be appreciated. As far as narcolepsy goes, mine is not a classic case. It only manifests itself when there's an opportunity to completely embarrass myself." He reflects upon his words and actions. "It's good to finally meet your acquaintance, Ren. I imagine your powers of observation will serve Wyvern Squad well. Despite my initial missteps, I hope to serve Wyvern Squad in a similar, positive manner."

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm: (at the base of Eagle's Nest)

Lucyus: “Is there any other way to the top?” he asks as he surveys the scene before him as he takes a bit of beef jerky and washes down with some water. “Not unless you can sprout wings,” Sergeant Traken answers. “Otherwise we ride.”

Wyvern Squad reaches the base of the Eagle's Nest outpost later in the afternoon. They find Chimera Squad’s mounts there inside a enclosed stable. It's clear that they have not been fed in several days. There is a watering trough, but most of the water is gone. Flare tends to all the mounts, filling the trough up with water once more and putting out more feed to eat.

After the mounts are tended to, Flare fiddles in his front pocket again. "Now is a good time, little girl." He pops a bit of dried rabbit's foot into his mouth, holding it in his teeth, then reaches back into his pockets with both hands.

His hands are cupped around a vibrant, young, female hawk.

She positions herself on his left arm, her mouth open. He strokes her gently, then moves her to his rabbit-clenched mouth. She eagerly pokes and plucks at the rabbit meat in his teeth. This is their ritual. After a short feeding, she snags most of the remaining meat from his mouth, but the morsel that is left behind is Flare's snack. He chews on it as he speaks to her: "Find out what you can, yes? And if the squad is not in Eagle's Nest within the day, be a darling and get some help, will you?"

They stare at each other for a moment. She knows what she must do. They swallow their rabbit-bites in unison. He gives her a pat, a quick lift and she flies off.

"Fare thee well, little girl."

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Behind Ren, the other members of Wyvern Squad draw closer. Before anyone can realize what is happening, the floor of the ramp suddenly shifts tilting upwards where Ren is at and downwards back at Lucyus' position. Lucyus falls nearly ten feet and upon impact starts to slide back down the mountain! The new passageway he landed in is much steeper than the ramp you had been traveling in and he can't help but keep on sliding! He inadvertently drops his torch and one-handed axe in the process.

The hike through the tunnels is slow, the shadows dancing from his torch light. He sees the others before him as he occasionally looks to his rear watching for trouble. After a time, the procession stops.

“What is…” the question never getting finished as the floor drops out below him. The rush of air can be felt even under his helm as he tumbles through the air. He finds the slope beneath him faster than he would like as he smashes his face into the stone, causing his torch and battle axe to fall from his grip as he tries to overcome the shock of his predicament.

Lucyus tries to grab on to the stone, his nails biting into the stone in vain; he looks back just in time to see his axe catch the light of his fallen torch as it goes over the edge. “Gods be merciful!” he cries as he feels nothing beneath him and the free fall.

Within a few moments, Lucyus lands flat on his stomach. The water breaks his fall and takes the breath from him. Within a moment he realizes just how weighed down he is. Fear runs through his mind as he could drown within his precious armor! Putting his feet below him he quickly realizes he can stand and surges upright; the smell alone greets him and he almost relieves himself of his last meal as stagnate water dribbles down his face and into his mouth.

Spitting the retched liquid from his mouth, he takes in his surroundings and sees nothing! Reaching his for his dagger, he heard the others splashing about him. He tries to narrow his eyes hoping it might allow him to see better but sadly there is no light to be had. “Everyone okay?” he says raising his faceplate.

"We are in a predicament, to be sure. Everyone sound off! This is Erisciana! Is everyone okay?! Those with night site, what do you see?" She will also reach out around her to see if anyone is in arm's reach.

“Lucyus here. Wet and missing my axe…. I can’t see anything… Can anyone see my axe?”

“Traken…. I think your report needs to be updated.”he says as he looks around in the dark. Lucyus will move his feet about the bottom feeling around for his lost weapon. “Anyone have any oil? Perhaps we can light it upon the surface of the water…” he says calling back to the others.

[Flare Nightstorm]

Lucyus no longer feels the slide underneath him and he's suddenly airborne once more. This lasts for a second as he hits what he assumes to be water! As he tries to gather his wits, the other members of Wyvern Squad coming falling around him creating more large splashes.

The dropped weapons and torches fall around the group and sink to the bottom of the pool. Those who are tall enough to stand, can feel objects at the bottom of the water, but cannot tell what they are.

Flare Nightstorm: (in a putrid cesspool)

Rising up from the bottom, Flare breaks through the surface of the water, choking on the corrupt, putrid slime that has flooded his sinuses, his mouth and his throat. He doesn't have trouble standing, but he's fighting for his life to clear his lungs. Mucus runs down his face.

After what seems like an eternity, Flare is finally able to spit out a beseeching (and nearly earnest), "Selune, take me now!"

Whew! He catches his breath, rubbing his eyes of the thickened, slimy fel-water.

I'm snagged on something. Am I snagged on something? Where's my sword?

"We are in a predicament, to be sure. Everyone sound off! This is Erisciana! Is everyone okay?! Those with night site, what do you see?"

"Butternut here, and I can see Ren and I think Lucyus, but cannot make out much more than that."

Lucyus here. Wet and missing my axe…. I can’t see anything… Can anyone see my axe? Anyone have any oil? Perhaps we can light it upon the surface of the water…

"Flare here! And..WHAT THE BLAST?!" Something has clamped onto his leg. It's squeezing tighter and tighter. Where the hell is that sword? He reaches into the murky water and pulls out...

Wimzy! "Ah-ha! I have accounted for Ms. Wimzy! Quite the death-grip on this one. She appears to be in one piece!" He hits her on the back, helping to free her of internal water.

To Lucyus: "I do not have oil, my friend, sorry."

Once Wimzy is breathing properly, Flare leads her around his neck. "Hold on, Halfling."

"Vernar! Does anyone see Vernar? Or......"

You can see what looks like a figure laying on the ground further ahead and out of the pool. This figure is not moving.

"..... Sarge?"

Flare slowly makes his way toward the darkened figure in the prone position. He doesn't want to get too close until he can see something familiar about the figure. Is it Human? Friend? Foe? Is it adorned in traditional garb? Or is it of the Goblin horde?

Did it just move?

[Vernar]

Vernar -

There's that one moment, not quite as long as a breath, but it seems to stretch on longer than that, when Vernar knows something isn't right. "Moradin's beard..." is as much as the dwarf can mutter before he, and the others, start falling. Not falling, sliding, Vernar soon realizes. The studs on his armor scraping, making an awful noise as he gains speed. His grip on his axe is precarious at best, and there is no time to wedge it into a crevice or gap. He is simply moving too fast. He could fumble for a dagger, but he is spinning as he slides, and he is no longer sure which way exactly is up.

Then he hits the water, it rushes in to fill his nostrils and his partly-opened mouth. He bounces and then rests on the bottom of the murky pool. Knowing he can't stay down there, he finds his footing, pushing off to reach the surface thankfully just a bit over his head. Once above water, he sprays out the vile liquid, coughing and sputtering while he hears people, his companions, calling out.

"Vernar! Does anyone see Vernar? Or......"

" 'ere," Vernar manages between a bout of coughing. "Blast it, I'm 'ere..."

Once the dwarf can breathe somewhat normally, he continues bobbing. It seems most everyone is accounted for so far, but some weapons are missing. Vernar will drift down to the bottom, since he's already soaked, and had nearly ingested more than his share of the foul water. He will look around and see if anything resembles the missing axes, or any other weapons the others may have lost. It should be easier, hopefully, to spot their weapons, since they should not yet have acquired any growth of muck on them.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Having succumbed to a trap on the way to the top of Eagle's Nest, the group finds themselves deep in the earth, in a muck-filled pool, in pitch blackness. One by one the group is accounted for, mostly by verbal responses, although those with infravision can see somewhat. Butternet confirms Ren and Lucyus are okay and Lucyus himself chimes in.

“Lucyus here. Wet and missing my axe…. I can’t see anything… Can anyone see my axe?”

"I too lost my mace," Erisciana states dejectedly. "I cannot see my hand before my face it is so dark." Flare then surfaces as well, and apparently has pulled Wimzy from the waters, which were easily far over the diminutive Azrellan's head.

Ah-ha! I have accounted for Ms. Wimzy! Quite the death-grip on this one. She appears to be in one piece!" He hits her on the back, helping to free her of internal water.

“Traken…. I think your report needs to be updated.”he says as he looks around in the dark. Lucyus will move his feet about the bottom feeling around for his lost weapon. “Anyone have any oil? Perhaps we can light it upon the surface of the water…” he says calling back to the others.

"I do not have oil, my friend, sorry." That was Flare's voice.

"Perhaps we should make sure we can exit this water before we set it alight. Besides we don't want to burn off all of our oxygen either." Erisciana moves towards some of the voices nearby, careful of her steps in case this pool is not all the same level.

"Vernar! Does anyone see Vernar? Or......", Flare exclaims,"..... Sarge?"

The dwarf was also shorter than the depth of this smelly, brackish pool. Fortunately, he was also quickly accounted for. " 'ere," Vernar manages between a bout of coughing. "Blast it, I'm 'ere..." However, there was still no response from Traken.

"Does anyone see Traken? Those of us without infravision seem to be completely blind in this hellhole. Is there any way out of this infernal pool?" Erisciana thinks that if this trap was made in the Land of Fate, there would be no method of extraction. She hopes that this is not the case here.

[Ren Silvare]

Flare:
"You're right, friend. My attempt at humor was ill-received." Flare fights the shameful blush swelling his face. "If you can think of a way to make it up to Butternut, it would be appreciated. As far as narcolepsy goes, mine is not a classic case. It only manifests itself when there's an opportunity to completely embarrass myself." He reflects upon his words and actions. "It's good to finally meet your acquaintance, Ren. I imagine your powers of observation will serve Wyvern Squad well. Despite my initial missteps, I hope to serve Wyvern Squad in a similar, positive manner."

With a bit of laughter he responds "Well met Flare, though I believe it will be for you to make it up to her. It will mean more if it is personal... and sincere."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After what seems like too long for such a tower, spiraling upwards to the lookout point Ren had already put his mirror away having grown tired of holding the useless object. As his caution begins to wane however, his foot hits the step and sinks ever so slightly. As the mechanism begins to rumble a bit the realization of what's happened comes across his face. "Oh sh-" his exclamation is cut short as the stairs become a smooth slide and the party is quickly shuttled downwards into a dark hole. The ride down may have been a little more fun for Ren than he would care to admit. Adrenaline was coursing at this point.

As his posterior felt a change from hard purchase to empty air he released a little whoop and braced for any impact. With a raucous splash he sinks into the pool bobbing back up to the top with a swiftness pushing off the shallow bottom.

Erisciana:
"Marduk's Horn!" she curses. "We are in a predicament, to be sure. Everyone sound off! This is Erisciana! Is everyone okay?! Those with night site, what do you see?"

Quickly getting to the dry land Ren gives a quick response. "Ren is here, and I see a count of bodies for us plus one." He begins to drag the body a bit out of the water to inspect it further, feeling for anything left on the body's person.

Lucyus:
Lucyus here. Wet and missing my axe…. I can’t see anything… Can anyone see my axe?

Once he has thoroughly inspected the body he surveys the room they are in and the height to the hole above. "Normally I'd fancy my chances at a good climb but I'm not sure up is gonna be our answer. Seems there might only be a way forward. Few items seem to be at the bottom of the pool from the splashes. Anyone have a way to get a spark of any kind? I have some greek fire I could put on a torch."

Erisciana:
"Perhaps we should make sure we can exit this water before we set it alight. Besides we don't want to burn off all of our oxygen either."

"Not sure we are at risk of burning up our oxygen," Ren replies pointing pointlessly at the hole they had just come through. "I'm guessing the body here didn't die of lack of air, and with such a large cavern there must be air from somewhere. If you work your way towards my voice it shouldnt be too long till you reach the edge. May want to search near yourselves for anything you may have dropped first. Finding the possible drop may not be easy if you leave where you fell."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 12th, CR 569

Arrival at Eagle's Nest:

Butternut examines the tracks leading up to the crude corral at the base of the Eagle's Nest. After completing her investigation, Butternut reports her findings to Sergeant Traken.

Her examination complete, Butternut stands up straight and approaches Sergeant Traken. "The tracks show Chimera Squad arriving a few days ago. A few days before that, a small pack of goblins entered. No indication of either one leaving."

“Enemy territory it is then,” Traken announces. “We have to assume that those devils are responsible for whatever fate befell Chimera Squad!”

After tending to the mounts, Flare steps back out of the corral and outside once more. Those who take notice will see that the animal, some already suspected to live in Flare's pocket, is actually a young hawk. The two converse and the hawk is fed. Then she flies off to explore the situation from above.


Down the Drain:

Near the top of the ramp that leads to the Eagle's Nest itself, a trap was sprung and it dropped the entire group into a slide that propelled them down deep into the depths of the earth. The portion of the ramp that radically tilted on them was at least 90' long, so while the group did close ranks, you were not tightly bunched together.

The wild ride down the slide ends in a small, rancid pond in a dark cave. After splashing down, the group gathers their wits and spits out the horrible water. Erisciana is the first to call out, and many follow in response with the exception of Sergeant Traken.

Those with infravision can see that this small pool sits at the back of a cavern. There is only one way to go and in that direction the ground slowly rises up out of the water and you can see dry ground around the pool. The exit area is about twenty feet wide and it slowly bends off to your left. Laying on the ground some fifteen feet out of the water is a motionless figure.

Flare is the first to move towards the figure. As he does so, he carries Wimzy to the shore and guides Erisciana in the right direction. Ren also calls out the direction to go as well.

Lucyus reaches down into the stagnant water trying to find his missing axe. He feels something, but can't make out what. Grabbing it, Lucyus pulls it to the surface only to realize that he can't see what he is holding up before him! Those with infravision who look that way will see that Lucyus is holding up what looks like a large 3' long spike that has the remains of a skull skewered on its point. Only the bones remain of the skull. The flesh is long gone.

By now everyone is aware that Sergeant Traken has not been accounted for. Those looking in the pool, Vernar most likely, quickly find his body. A large spike pierced his chest, much like the one that Lucyus is holding, but this one is still standing upright at the bottom of the pond. Traken is not moving and no air bubbles are escaping his body.

Vernar makes a further search of the bottom of this foul pool. The group's weapons and torches are easy to find as they are not covered by muck as of yet and retrieved. There are more things at the bottom of this pool. There are more spikes, but the majority of them have long since rusted away and fell from the frame that held them upright. There are many bones from many different races. More weapons and shields are noted, but they are mostly covered with muck.

Ren discovers that the body near him is actually the remains of a goblin. He took a spike to his throat and it killed him. He's been dead for many days now and his body is sickly bloated. It just adds to the rancidness of this disgusting pool. It'll take some work to move this body out of the water.

On the shore, Flare cautiously approaches the prone figure. Its too big to be a goblin and its clothes seem to be newer. Just past the figure is where the cavern turns to the left. Flare glances that way and can see that after about twenty feet it turns to the right and narrows considerably to just over ten feet wide. Nothing is seen.

Turning back to the figure, Flare can see that it is the remains of a half-elf male. Much of his visible flesh is missing and it appears that something ate it! He has been dead for days now. Blood and pieces of bone and flesh litter the cavern floor before the body. A rat runs up, grabs one one of the half-elves eyeballs and then scurries off once more.

Butternut notes that the typical sounds from being underground are present. There is the occasional drip of water. More rats can be heard chittering far off in the darkness and who knows what else?

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The groups dropped items can be easily recovered. Going to grab anything else that ended up down at the bottom of the pool? Pull the bodies up or leave them?

Now what?

[Ren Silvare]

Upon reaching the corpse near him, Ren quickly pats it for any coin purse and shoves away from it in disgust. "Make sure not to swallow any of the water, it is rancid from the corpses it seems."

Having worn his pouch on his belt and his backpack on his back, when he gets to shore he rummages through his gear and checks that he has not lost anything. If anything was lost he will make sure it is accounted for. When Traken's body is found, "Quite lucky we are, not to have suffered his fate. It is a shame we will not know him longer."

Being less curious with the pool and more so with the way ahead, Ren joins Flare by the half-elf. "Were there any orders or papers in his pouches? I wonder if there is anything to identify him as chimera squad. Strange that scouts would be sent to an outpost without knowing of this trap."

"Does anyone have some flint? I have a whetstone but I'm not sure I can get a spark with it to light this greek fire. "

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Lucyus reaches down into the stagnant water trying to find his missing axe. He feels something, but can't make out what. Grabbing it, Lucyus pulls it to the surface only to realize that he can't see what he is holding up before him! Those with infravision who look that way will see that Lucyus is holding up what looks like a large 3' long spike that has the remains of a skull skewered on its point. Only the bones remain of the skull. The flesh is long gone.

Taking a deep breath Lucyus feels about the watery depths and detects something that seems cylinder-like. Grasping it he returns to the surface, water dripping from his features. He runs his hands over the item within his hands, cold to the touch. Metal? He guesses. Word comes to him that the item in his hand holds that of a skull. Those with infravision can see him make a face of disgust as he brings the spike and skull to the shore in which Ren is calling from.

Being less curious with the pool and more so with the way ahead, Ren joins Flare by the half-elf. "Were there any orders or papers in his pouches? I wonder if there is anything to identify him as chimera squad. Strange that scouts would be sent to an outpost without knowing of this trap."

"Does anyone have some flint? I have a whetstone but I'm not sure I can get a spark with it to light this greek fire. "

“Guide the others to the shore. Some of us cannot see in this retched filth!” he says as he stumbles to the shore. “Are there any dry torches or dry clothes about before you use your Greek fire?”

"Does anyone see our wepons and things that were dropped?" he asks everyone.

By now everyone is aware that Sergeant Traken has not been accounted for. Those looking in the pool, Vernar most likely, quickly find his body. A large spike pierced his chest, much like the one that Lucyus is holding, but this one is still standing upright at the bottom of the pond. Traken is not moving and no air bubbles are escaping his body.

Upon hearing this Lucyus says, “Heironious be merciful.” He mutters to himself. Who will take charge? Who will lead this group thrown together from fate. “Bring his body to the shore. We will have to see to it before whatever is making that sound does."

Once upon shore, Lucyus feels the difference in the ground beneath him and call outs to Flare and Ren. “I should have it in my pack, but I cannot see it. Check your rations and water! And by the gods get a fire going!”

If Lucyus has to, he will make a makeshift torch from the spike and whatever tatters of clothing he can find wrapping them tightly and tying them to the spike.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

"Not sure we are at risk of burning up our oxygen," Ren replies pointing pointlessly at the hole they had just come through. "I'm guessing the body here didn't die of lack of air, and with such a large cavern there must be air from somewhere. If you work your way towards my voice it shouldn't be too long till you reach the edge. May want to search near yourselves for anything you may have dropped first. Finding the possible drop may not be easy if you leave where you fell."

"Body? There is another body here?" Not surprising given the nature of the trap. "The pivoting ramp created some form of closure to this area in its rotation and there may have been another that we did not notice. The pirates of the Shining Coast had a gruesome method of dealing with enemies, putting them into a pit with water or well, dropping oil and torches to alight it and sealing the top with a large stone tablet. The unfortunate victims had a choice of drowning, burning or asphyxiation. A large fire can suck up oxygen in an enclosed space quickly."

Between Ren's voice and Flare's lead, the priestess carefully makes it to the shore. Still unable to see, she is at the others' mercy for information. Soon it is noted that Traken was killed in the fall. "Quite lucky we are, not to have suffered his fate. It is a shame we will not know him longer."

"More-so, we are on our own. Although it seemed as though Traken himself had little knowledge of this place. And certainly he seems to have been unaware of this trap and area we find ourselves in. Now the question remains: did the designers of this place expect this trap to kill it's victims, or will we see more unexpected dangers? I think we should proceed with caution." Unable to do much more and unable to see what the rest are doing, she tries to not get in anyone's way until there is a solution for seeing. She shakes out her hair to try and dry it somewhat and then does the same with her sopping wet cloak. Fortunately she does not feel cold from the drenching, with wet clothes stuck to her skin, under wet leather.

“Bring his body to the shore. We will have to see to it before whatever is making that sound does." Lucyus comments further regarding Traken's body.

"Are you presuming taking his body with us? That may eventually prove dangerously cumbersome, as heartless as that sounds. Unless there proves a convenient way out of here, having two of our number taken up by carrying the body could be deadly."

There is talk of starting a fire and Erisci hopes that is accomplished soon, as she feels far too helpless without being able to see.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

"Body? There is another body here?" Not surprising given the nature of the trap. "The pivoting ramp created some form of closure to this area in its rotation and there may have been another that we did not notice. The pirates of the Shining Coast had a gruesome method of dealing with enemies, putting them into a pit with water or well, dropping oil and torches to alight it and sealing the top with a large stone tablet. The unfortunate victims had a choice of drowning, burning or asphyxiation. A large fire can suck up oxygen in an enclosed space quickly."

“Who else is dead? or wounded? Given the sounds of the rats I doubt we will succumb to asphyxiation. There is bound to be a way out, whether it be climb back the way we came albeit doubtful. Such traps are to diminish a force to wound, maim and kill. Wounded captives are easier to control than healthy ones.” He guesses in the dark.

"Are you presuming taking his body with us? That may eventually prove dangerously cumbersome, as heartless as that sounds. Unless there proves a convenient way out of here, having two of our number taken up by carrying the body could be deadly."

“Not at all. I will give him his last rights then put him to flame.” He again says to the darkness where he guesses Erisciana is. “He deserves better but it will also give us light to work with, dry ourselves and hopefully keep whatever is out there at bay till we are ready to move"

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

"Given the sounds of the rats I doubt we will succumb to asphyxiation. There is bound to be a way out, whether it be climb back the way we came albeit doubtful. Such traps are to diminish a force to wound, maim and kill. Wounded captives are easier to control than healthy ones.”

"I doubt the rats are making large fires," she responds with a smirk. "I am hoping there is a way out. If so it is an imperfect trap. Dead captives are the easiest to control," Erisciana says matter-of-factly. "We're not dead yet, so there is always hope."

Lucyus was not in fact suggesting removing Traken's body. “Not at all. I will give him his last rights then put him to flame.” He again says to the darkness where he guesses Erisciana is. “He deserves better but it will also give us light to work with, dry ourselves and hopefully keep whatever is out there at bay till we are ready to move."

"It's better than leaving him to rot in that putrid pool anyway," she says quietly. The priestess hopes that the plan works, despite its gruesomeness. It will be good to be able to see again.

[Ren Silvare]

Erisciana:
"I am hoping there is a way out. If so it is an imperfect trap. Dead captives are the easiest to control," Erisciana says matter-of-factly. "We're not dead yet, so there is always hope."

"A dead captive isn't a captive at all." Ren says sardonically. "But I do agree that caution will be the way forward, and for now we risk burning up a bit of oxygen to get our bearings straight. Also, in my callousness we may want to check what gear Traken brought with him in case there is anything useful. Everything helps, especially now."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

“Enemy territory it is then,” Traken announces. “We have to assume that those devils are responsible for whatever fate befell Chimera Squad!”

"Entirely possible," Butternut confirms with a nod. Not a large group of goblins, but they're clever enough and have an advantage underground.
___

Bobbing in the fetid waters, Butternut listens as others check in: Lucyus confirms her own hazy sighting, then Flare - who then accounts for Wimzy as well - followed by Vernar and Ren. 'That leaves only Sergeant Traken unaccounted for,' she thinks to herself.

Once he has thoroughly inspected the body he surveys the room they are in and the height to the hole above. "Normally I'd fancy my chances at a good climb but I'm not sure up is gonna be our answer. Seems there might only be a way forward. Few items seem to be at the bottom of the pool from the splashes. Anyone have a way to get a spark of any kind? I have some greek fire I could put on a torch."

Butternut spits out a nasty-tasting bit of muck. "I don't know if my Shocking Grasp spell will light it or not. I do have some flint and steel, but they're pretty wet right now."

"I too lost my mace," Erisciana states dejectedly. "I cannot see my hand before my face it is so dark."

Erisciana mentions having lost her grip on her weapon, and it seems she is not the only one. Butternut pipes in between momentary dunkings in the putrid pond. "I can only see a little bit, but I will try to help find the missing weapons." As she bobs in the water, she feels the bottom of the pool with her feet. In response to any solid objects that don't feel like dead bodies, she'll dive down and drag them up for identification. Since she can see one wall of the cavern, she begins moving the other direction toward Ren's voice, zigzagging as she goes to cover a wider path.

“Traken…. I think your report needs to be updated.”he says as he looks around in the dark. Lucyus will move his feet about the bottom feeling around for his lost weapon. “Anyone have any oil? Perhaps we can light it upon the surface of the water…” he says calling back to the others.

"Perhaps we should make sure we can exit this water before we set it alight. Besides we don't want to burn off all of our oxygen either." Erisciana moves towards some of the voices nearby, careful of her steps in case this pool is not all the same level.

"As Eri suggested," Butternut replies, "let's wait until everyone's out of the water, Lucyus, or we're likely to burn our own people."

As Butternut makes her way slowly across the pool, she can feel it getting shallower. Soon, she can walk on the bottom without bobbing, which is much more comfortable. At some point, she finds an axe that isn't crusted in muck and makes her over to Vernar to give it to the dwarf. She can hear the chittering of rats in the distance, which she finds comforting as it means there are likely no larger predators nearby.

Vernar shows her Traken's body that he has just found. Clearly, the Sergeant is dead, which leaves them without formal leadership. Butternut is not particularly bothered by that aspect, but is saddened to see that the man has passed away.

"Body? There is another body here?" Not surprising given the nature of the trap. "The pivoting ramp created some form of closure to this area in its rotation and there may have been another that we did not notice. The pirates of the Shining Coast had a gruesome method of dealing with enemies, putting them into a pit with water or well, dropping oil and torches to alight it and sealing the top with a large stone tablet. The unfortunate victims had a choice of drowning, burning or asphyxiation. A large fire can suck up oxygen in an enclosed space quickly."

"This may not be the best time for such stories, Eri," Butternut says. "Let's stay focused on being calm and assessing our situation."

Having worn his pouch on his belt and his backpack on his back, when he gets to shore he rummages through his gear and checks that he has not lost anything. If anything was lost he will make sure it is accounted for. When Traken's body is found, "Quite lucky we are, not to have suffered his fate. It is a shame we will not know him longer."

"Indeed," Butternut replies. "He seemed a good man, and we could have used his sword as we strive to find our way out of here."

"Does anyone have some flint? I have a whetstone but I'm not sure I can get a spark with it to light this greek fire."

“Guide the others to the shore. Some of us cannot see in this retched filth!” he says as he stumbles to the shore. “Are there any dry torches or dry clothes about before you use your Greek fire?”

"Does anyone see our weapons and things that were dropped?" he asks everyone.

By now the water only reaches Butternut's thighs, and she continues to search the water for what was lost. "I found an axe and handed it to Vernar, thinking it might be his," Butternut replies. "If you do find any dry clothes, I could use it to dry my flint and steel, which would give us a way to light some oil or Ren's greek fire."

Once upon shore, Lucyus feels the difference in the ground beneath him and call outs to Flare and Ren. “I should have it in my pack, but I cannot see it. Check your rations and water! And by the gods get a fire going!”

Butternut hears what sounds like a bit of panic in the young warrior's tone. "It's okay, Lucyus, we'll get through this. Relax a bit while we get everything sorted and scout out our situation." She's been in worse situations, so Butternut feels no inclination to panic yet.

“Not at all. I will give him his last rights then put him to flame.” He again says to the darkness where he guesses Erisciana is. “He deserves better but it will also give us light to work with, dry ourselves and hopefully keep whatever is out there at bay till we are ready to move"

"It's better than leaving him to rot in that putrid pool anyway," she says quietly. The priestess hopes that the plan works, despite its gruesomeness. It will be good to be able to see again.

Butternut grimaces, realizing that many of her companions have little real experience in the field. "I hope you're ready for the stench if you do that, Lucyus. I don't know if you've ever smelled a burning body, but it will make the rancid pool we just dragged ourselves from seem like a fresh spring day in comparison."

Having reached the edge of the pool, Butternut is glad to climb out onto more-or-less dry ground. From here, she can see Flare and Ren bending over a body at the edge of her vision. "Flare? Ren? Who's that? Part of Chimera Squad by any chance? Any dry clothing or other materials we may be able to start a small fire or create torches from?" she asks. Sadly, anyone from the previous groups that is lying down here is unlikely to still be alive.

Butternut will continue making sure that everyone gets safely out of the pool of brackish water. Once that is done, she'll dig through her pouch and backpack to see if any of her possessions managed to avoid the dunking and remain dry. In particular, she checks her spare clothes and food, then pulls out her flint and steel. If others' items are still missing from the fall, she will go back into the water to search for them, leaving her backpack and pouch behind on the dry ground for now..

[Ren Silvare]

Butternut:
"Flare? Ren? Who's that? Part of Chimera Squad by any chance? Any dry clothing or other materials we may be able to start a small fire or create torches from?" she asks. Sadly, anyone from the previous groups that is lying down here is unlikely to still be alive.

Helping Flare search the body on the shore, Ren makes sure to check if he has dried off. Might also help tell whether the body has been here long. "Not sure how we would tell if he was Chimera Squad short of a Chimera emblazoned on his person. Hard to tell how long he has been here but if he is dryer than it may just be Chimera Squad. It had been a couple days since they arrived, correct?"

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Some quick random answers to questions asked.

Dead Goblin:

No coin purse is found on the dead goblin in the water. Nor any gear. Others seemed to have taken his belongings before your arrival.

Ren believes that all his gear is accounted for.

Half-Elf Body:

Likewise, all the gear has been taken from this body. However, his clothes are dry and torn in many places.

Sergeant Traken:

Traken's body is lifted off of the spike that impaled him and taken on shore. He's wearing chain mail armor and had a shield. He had his longsword and torch in his hands when the trap was sprung. The longsword fell into the pool along with the torch. Traken wore a tabard of the Cynalonian Army over his chain mail. In addition to his normal clothing, he carried a dagger, a weeks worth of rations and water, a flint and steel, and four more torches. He has a coin purse with a sizable amount of coins in it.

Butternut checks her own gear once on shore. Everything was soaked from the dunking and being in the water. What food you carried is now wet from the rancid water. Eat at your own peril! However, your water supplies are just fine. They are water tight after all.

The opening that you fell through to hit the rancid pool is twenty feet overhead. It's just an opening and there doesn't seem to be anything around it to attach a rope to, assuming that one could climb up the steep slide.

The items that were dropped into the water, Lucyus axe, Erisciana's mace and Traken's longsword were recovered. Two spent torches were found as well. I should note that the standard torch, as per the PHB, will burn for 30 minutes before it is spent. Thus both Lucyus and Traken used 2 torches during the trek up the ramp. So, Lucyus used all of his torches, as he was only carrying two. As noted above, Traken had 4 more torches with him. Of course they are now wet.

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Down in the bowels of Eagle's Nest mountain....

"This may not be the best time for such stories, Eri," Butternut says. "Let's stay focused on being calm and assessing our situation."

"Fair enough," Erisciana consents. "I went a little tangential in making my point."

"A dead captive isn't a captive at all." Ren says sardonically. "But I do agree that caution will be the way forward, and for now we risk burning up a bit of oxygen to get our bearings straight. Also, in my callousness we may want to check what gear Traken brought with him in case there is anything useful. Everything helps, especially now."

"That's exactly my point," the priestess responds. "This trap was not meant to capture but to kill. We were fortunate that time has driven this spiked pit into disrepair." Erisci pauses a moment. "Traken is dead. Any gear he had with him may keep us alive. I agree that we should use whatever may be available."

Butternut grimaces, realizing that many of her companions have little real experience in the field. "I hope you're ready for the stench if you do that, Lucyus. I don't know if you've ever smelled a burning body, but it will make the rancid pool we just dragged ourselves from seem like a fresh spring day in comparison."

"Butternut has a valid point," Erisciana adds simply. "It might also attract some unwanted attention."

Helping Flare search the body on the shore, Ren makes sure to check if he has dried off. Might also help tell whether the body has been here long. "Not sure how we would tell if he was Chimera Squad short of a Chimera emblazoned on his person. Hard to tell how long he has been here but if he is dryer than it may just be Chimera Squad. It had been a couple days since they arrived, correct?"

"As we received no special designation or demarcation, it is not likely that Chimera did either. Unless this one was a soldier of this kingdom and wore a tabard like our departed sergeant. Otherwise unlikely to tell if he was part of the previous group."

Erisci will thank the person who retrieved her mace and will ask for Traken's shield if no one else has any use for it, as she left her own with the horses. At the time, traveling light and unencumbered made sense. Now she is regretting leaving her food and water behind.

"While the food may seem spoiled or at least tainted, do not discard it. On the morrow, myself and Wimzy can purify it so that it is safe to eat. Do we have a way to make some light yet?"

“Another issue we should address: we do not now have a formal leader. Everyone doing what they each see fit could possibly get many of us killed. We should choose someone to organize us, at least until we get out of this predicament.”

[Lucyus]

Lucyus:

"It's better than leaving him to rot in that putrid pool anyway," she says quietly. The priestess hopes that the plan works, despite its gruesomeness. It will be good to be able to see again.

“Or to be feasted upon by rats, or whatever else dwells here,” he says absently in the dark.

"As Eri suggested," Butternut replies, "let's wait until everyone's out of the water, Lucyus, or we're likely to burn our own people."

“It was not my intent to do so right away. Given we all are wet and possibly most of our gear, it maybe the only thing that we can burn,” he says back to the darkness. “Next time, I will bring candles. If it gets wet, crack it in half and light the dry side,” he says absently to himself more than the others about him.

"Indeed," Butternut replies. "He seemed a good man, and we could have used his sword as we strive to find our way out of here."

“Sadly we cannot choose our time or how we leave this world. He was honourable one to look to and admire as he did service for his homeland.”

By now the water only reaches Butternut's thighs, and she continues to search the water for what was lost. "I found an axe and handed it to Vernar, thinking it might be his," Butternut replies. "If you do find any dry clothes, I could use it to dry my flint and steel, which would give us a way to light some oil or Ren's greek fire."

“It is possible to use some cloth to bind it around something, like this,” still holding the spike and, unknowingly, skull. "A bit of oil or greek fire, it would do till the torches are ready,“ he says positively.

Butternut hears what sounds like a bit of panic in the young warrior's tone. "It's okay, Lucyus, we'll get through this. Relax a bit while we get everything sorted and scout out our situation." She's been in worse situations, so Butternut feels no inclination to panic yet.

“I am fine,” he says gruffly. Relax? Shaking his head within the dark. Let us relax here by the dead bodies, rancid water in the dark with no way to see. I do not think anyone would find this situation relaxing…

Butternut grimaces, realizing that many of her companions have little real experience in the field. "I hope you're ready for the stench if you do that, Lucyus. I don't know if you've ever smelled a burning body, but it will make the rancid pool we just dragged ourselves from seem like a fresh spring day in comparison."

“I have smelt my fair share of dead bodies and cremated remains. While not ideal it would solve two problems at once. Unless someone is planning on carrying him." Lucyus is still unaware of the skull he is holding as he hears of their leader’s death, The others begin to claim his gear. Lucyus says a silent prayer for the fallen leader. “His sword may still yet help us. Has anyone have use for his sword?” as Eri claims his shield

"While the food may seem spoiled or at least tainted, do not discard it. On the morrow, myself and Wimzy can purify it so that it is safe to eat. Do we have a way to make some light yet?"

“Another issue we should address: we do not now have a formal leader. Everyone doing what they each see fit could possibly get many of us killed. We should choose someone to organize us, at least until we get out of this predicament.”

“Is there any wood about or torches? When we do begin to move from here we will need to light our path. Unless those that can see in the dark wish to hold hands as we move within the tunnels."

“I would second that. Is there any here that wish to lead?”

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar dives back down under the water, searching for the group's missing weapons, missing most of the initial conversations. The dwarf soon finds more than he expected at the bottom of the putrid pool. The good sergeant has met his end when he fell upon a spike buried into the floor, making this trap even more deadly to those unlucky as him. He returns to the surface to inform everyone that their leader perished and will work to get his body free. It takes some time as the body is weighed down by his heavy armor, but finally the dwarf can haul Traken's body to the shoreline.

Listening to the others, and their desire to start a fire, Vernar chimes in, "I have a few flasks of lamp oil if you want to save the Greek fire."

As with the others, all of his belongings are currently drenched, so actually getting a spark may prove time consuming. Thankfully his studded leather has been well treated, so it can handle being wet for a while, but Vernar would still like to get dry. As the dwarf mulls this around in his head, Butternut hands him his missing axe. "Thanks to ye'," he offers, and secures the weapon. Then he gets an idea.

"Dependin' on the type o' stone we find down 'ere, we might be able to get a spark off o' one o' them," the dwarf states. "Scrapin' with a pommel or weapon edge might be jus' enough to catch some oil."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Helping Flare search the body on the shore, Ren makes sure to check if he has dried off. Might also help tell whether the body has been here long. "Not sure how we would tell if he was Chimera Squad short of a Chimera emblazoned on his person. Hard to tell how long he has been here but if he is dryer than it may just be Chimera Squad. It had been a couple days since they arrived, correct?"

"As we received no special designation or demarcation, it is not likely that Chimera did either. Unless this one was a soldier of this kingdom and wore a tabard like our departed sergeant. Otherwise unlikely to tell if he was part of the previous group."

"Yeah, about three days, Ren," Butternut replies. "And the only ones I saw evidence of before that were goblins. Since he didn't come with us, if he appears to have been dead for less than a week or so, he was probably with Chimera."

“It was not my intent to do so right away. Given we all are wet and possibly most of our gear, it maybe the only thing that we can burn,” he says back to the darkness. “Next time, I will bring candles. If it gets wet, crack it in half and light the dry side,” he says absently to himself more than the others about him.

"Good idea, Lucyus," Butternut says. "I'll stock up myself next opportunity."

“It is possible to use some cloth to bind it around something, like this,” still holding the spike and, unknowingly, skull. "A bit of oil or greek fire, it would do till the torches are ready,“ he says positively.

Butternut considers briefly. "Best chance of dry cloth would be the body that Ren and Flare found. Follow their voices, generally forward of where you stand and a little to the left."

"Dependin' on the type o' stone we find down 'ere, we might be able to get a spark off o' one o' them," the dwarf states. "Scrapin' with a pommel or weapon edge might be jus' enough to catch some oil."

"Seems like a good idea, if we can't find a way to dry off any of the flint we brought."

“I have smelt my fair share of dead bodies and cremated remains. While not ideal it would solve two problems at once. Unless someone is planning on carrying him." Lucyus is still unaware of the skull he is holding as he hears of their leader’s death, The others begin to claim his gear. Lucyus says a silent prayer for the fallen leader. “His sword may still yet help us. Has anyone have use for his sword?” as Eri claims his shield

"While I understand your concern, Lucyus, I'm more concerned with finding a way out of here for those of us still alive," Butternut says. "If we're lucky enough to find one, we can come back for him and the half-elf."

"While the food may seem spoiled or at least tainted, do not discard it. On the morrow, myself and Wimzy can purify it so that it is safe to eat. Do we have a way to make some light yet?"

Butternut is about to fling the ruined food in her pack away in disgust when Erisciana speaks up. "That's good to know, Eri. At least we won't have to go without food."

“Another issue we should address: we do not now have a formal leader. Everyone doing what they each see fit could possibly get many of us killed. We should choose someone to organize us, at least until we get out of this predicament.”

“I would second that. Is there any here that wish to lead?”

"Don't have much use for leaders, myself," Butternut replies. "However, if I had to pick one, I would choose either Vernar or you, Lucyus."

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm - on the rock-hard ground just outside the putrid cesspool

Traken was killed in the fall.

Erisciana: "Quite lucky we are, not to have suffered his fate. It is a shame we will not know him longer."

"Damn, Sarge. I'm sorry." Flare hoped to learn more from his skilled leadership.

Selune knows I'm in desperate need of such discipline...

Traken's body is lifted off of the spike that impaled him and taken on shore. In addition to his normal clothing, he carried a dagger, a weeks worth of rations and water, a flint and steel, and four more torches. Of course they are now wet."

Ren: "Make sure not to swallow any of the water, it is rancid from the corpses it seems."

Gods! To hear it said aloud like this! Flare feels his stomach begin to spasm.

What food you carried is now wet from the rancid water. Eat at your own peril! However, your water supplies are just fine. They are water tight after all.

Flare takes a swig of his drinking water, then forces it out each nostril in an attempt to clear his head & sinuses of the fel-water. He also gargles and spits out.

When he recovers, he begins to remove scraps of clothing from the Half-Elf. The fabric is dry. He rips them into long strips that can be wrapped around any spent torches. There's an air of seriousness around him.

“It is possible to use some cloth to bind it around something, like this,” still holding the spike and, unknowingly, skull. "A bit of oil or greek fire, it would do till the torches are ready,“ he says positively.

The image of a blind Lucyus waving his skull-headed spike around makes him smile. "Brother Lucyus, come this way. We will have the materials for light soon."

Flare glances that way and can see that after about twenty feet it turns to the right and narrows considerably to just over ten feet wide. Nothing is seen.

Flare doesn't see, or hear, much coming from the far end of the cavern. Just the sounds of mice and the water-drips. He listens intently.

As Butternut makes her way slowly across the pool, she can hear the chittering of rats in the distance, which she finds comforting as it means there are likely no larger predators nearby.

Flare comes to a similar assessment on his own. I don't sense immediate danger, but I would feel better with my sword in hand.

Vernar makes a further search of the bottom of this foul pool. The group's weapons and torches are easy to find as they are not covered by muck as of yet and retrieved.

As Vernar and Butternut's pile of retrieved weapons grows, Flare feels a small sense of calm settle on him. "Brother Vernar, thank you for retrieving my longsword. I did not feel safe without it. "

Having reached the edge of the pool, Butternut is glad to climb out onto more-or-less dry ground. From here, she can see Flare and Ren bending over a body at the edge of her vision. "Flare? Ren? Who's that? Part of Chimera Squad by any chance? Any dry clothing or other materials we may be able to start a small fire or create torches from?" she asks.

"He's a Half-Elf, Lady Butternut. He could be from Chimera Squad, but there is nothing proving this. We have dry cloth tho. I believe Ren & I will have a fire started shortly. I have a fair amount of cloth strips now!"

Then to his shoreline companion: "Ren, what will we need to utilize your Greek Fire? Lucyus' oil? Vernar's spark-stones?"

Flare makes a concentrated effort to get the torches going as quickly as possible now. He will guide all people and all elements together to get torches going.

Erisciana: "While the food may seem spoiled or at least tainted, do not discard it. On the morrow, myself and Wimzy can purify it so that it is safe to eat."

"Goodness, you can cleanse our food!? That is perhaps the most hopeful thing I've heard this day! Praise be to the Healers of this world!"

Erisiciana: “Another issue we should address: we do not now have a formal leader. We should choose someone to organize us, at least until we get out of this predicament.”

"Don't have much use for leaders, myself," Butternut replies. "However, if I had to pick one, I would choose either Vernar or you, Lucyus."

While his years in the woods have made him quite independent, and yes, he agrees with Butternut's indictment of leaders in general, Flare is also the son of an alcoholic ne'er-do-well. A man you couldn't trust as far as you could throw him!

When Flare's mind is free of drink, he can often see a need for some amount of discipline & leadership in his life. Not that he'd admit it out loud.

And not that that's going to stop him from partaking in a nip of cider anytime soon.

Ah, cider! Where's that delicious elixir? He starts rummaging through his person.

Flare is completely unaware of the supplies he started with. He was in a drunken haze when he arrived at Crossroads. Perhaps picking out supplies & rations was only a dream he had..? Where's that blasted Player's Handbook?!

As he takes an assessment of his belongings, Flare says: "On the subject of leading, I trust all of you more than I trust myself. We're in this together, and we all bring a very particular set of skills. As long as you have the fairness of our lost Sgt. Traken, I will follow you."

"Until you give me reason otherwise."